inspo & info

So, you're starting your Japan trip in Haneda and are wondering how to make your way to your accommodation? We've made that journey countless times but every trip, travel group and situation is different. Here's our 2026 guide to taking the train, limousine bus or private transfer from Haneda into Tokyo city centre so you can work out what the best way is for you. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small comm

Now, Japansophy can't claim to be any sort of anime fan, we'll be honest, but even we couldn't help but be impressed by the giant Gundam in Odaiba. It's a (huuuuge) piece of Japanese pop-culture iconography and, judging by the crowds that gather to watch Gundam "come to life" several times a day, is a place of pilgrimage for the many mecha anime die-hards out there. For anyone passionate about Gunpla—the plastic model kits of Gundam robots—there are two must-visit spots in To

Tokyo may be famous for iconic religious sites like Sensō-ji in Asakusa or Meiji Jingu in Shibuya, but you'll be fighting for elbow space and fending off selfie-stick attacks. If you're seeking something more intimate—spaces where you can breathe, wander, and soak in centuries of quiet history—Tokyo has plenty of hidden gems. In this article, we'll explore ten lesser-known temples and shrines that offer beauty, cultural depth, and tranquility beyond the well-trodden tourist p

Feel like a break from the relentless energy of Tokyo? Put yourself on a train from Ikebukuro and in just 30 minutes you'll be transported out of the city and back in time (you'll think) into the Edo Period (1603-1868), when the castle town of Kawagoe served as a crucial trading post supplying the capital. Read on to discover why a day trip to Kawagoe should be in your Japan itinerary. Jump to (1) Little Edo (2) What to see in Kawagoe city (3) Link to Kawagoe map (4) What to

Everything you need to know about this classic Kanto-Kansai route If you are planning a trip along Japan's iconic Golden Route, the Tōkaidō Shinkansen is your fastest, most comfortable option. The Tōkaidō route runs between Tokyo and Osaka with stops in major cities such as Yokohama, Nagoya and - especially interesting for tourists - Kyoto. Now, we have covered most of the basics in our article on Taking the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto , so click on that link to read all a

Tokyo shines in autumn, but some of the most spectacular colours lie just beyond the city’s bustle. You don’t need to travel for hours: in just a few short train rides, you can reach hidden valleys, elegant temples, riverside walks, and hillside forests awash in red and gold. This guide highlights leaf-viewing spots in or close to Tokyo — perfect for day trips or overnight escapes. Jump to: When can I see autumn colour in the Tokyo area? Nikko Hitachi Seaside Park Kawaguchi

From the historic charm of Asakusa to the futuristic cityscape of Odaiba, a cruise down the Sumida River (Sumidagawa) is both a feast for...

Step into another world without leaving Tokyo. Shin-Okubo Korea Town is a whirlwind of K-pop, sizzling street food, and mega-trendy...

It may not boast the spiritual serenity of Tokyo’s temples or the eclectic charm of cat cafes, but the National Diet Building  (国会議事堂...

An island of open space and historical architecture in a city of dazzling high-rise buildings, the Imperial Palace is probably the first...

Tucked away in the quiet, residential Setagaya Ward, Daikeizan Gotokuji temple is a whimsical escape from Tokyo's urban jungle. While it may lack the grand scale of some of the city's more famous shrines, its unique and charming atmosphere more than makes up for it. Jump to: How to get to Gotokuji temple Opening hours and best time to visit Admission What to see & do at Gotokuji temple Top tips for Gotokuji temple Facilities Nearby attractions For some reason, Gotokuji is kno

Bored of Tokyo? Never! It would take a lifetime to experience everything this city – the biggest in the world, don't forget – has to...

Choosing where to stay in Tokyo can be a bit of a headache, especially for first-timers. Let our guide narrow it down for you Tokyo is...

Want to get up close and personal with Mt Fuji? A day trip is very doable from Tokyo Planning a day trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo can be...