Thanksgiving in Japan
Japan deserves a place at the very top of anyone’s travel list. My husband and I have been twice now, and it remains one of our favorite destinations in the world. Our most recent Thanksgiving week trip reminded us why. Kyoto offered calm beauty and cultural depth, while Tokyo dazzled with nonstop energy, incredible food, and neighborhoods that feel like small worlds of their own.
Kyoto
Kyoto has a quiet and calming way of instantly impressing. A guided cultural tour helped us understand the rhythms and beliefs woven into Shinto and Buddhist traditions, which made visits to places like Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera even more meaningful. Fushimi Inari’s bright gates were as energizing as ever, and walking through them felt like stepping into something timeless.
Nishiki Market was chaotic in the best way. With a guide, it was easy to try interesting snacks, ask questions, and avoid getting lost in the crowds. Tofukuji Temple was the moment that stopped us in our tracks. Its fall colors were almost unreal and the whole experience felt transformational.
Kyoto is also wonderful in the quieter moments: wandering small streets, tasting new snacks, stepping into shops you’ve never heard of, and ending the day with a simple bowl of noodles or a drink at a local wine bar.
Tokyo
Tokyo’s neighborhoods each have their own mood. Asakusa provides traditional charm, complete with kimono shopping at Mega Tensuya and a visit to Sensō-ji. Akihabara was a total sensory overload with arcades, anime shops, and Mandarake’s endless collectibles. Kappabashi, better known as Kitchen Street, was a practical souvenir paradise filled with knives, chopsticks, and ceramics.
TeamLab Planets was one of the most striking experiences of the trip. It’s immersive art meets museum, beautifully organized, and surprisingly peaceful. We loved browsing Ueno’s Americana themed clothing shops, paired with upscale shopping in Ginza. Harajuku and Omotesando gave us a mix of stylish boutiques, side streets, and quiet cafes that felt worlds away from the crowds.
Tokyo also spoiled us with food. Highlights included Michelin meals at Fushikino and Sushi Keita, comforting bowls of ramen, and creative cocktails at places like The SG Club and Bar High Five.
Shopping
Japan is a dream for shoppers. For denim lovers, Studio d’Artisan and Momotaro offer world class jeans. Character Street is perfect for fans of Nintendo, Ghibli, Sanrio, or Pokémon. Kappabashi is ideal if you love cooking or ceramics. Don Quijote is unbeatable for sweet treats, especially the Kit Kat flavors that never leave the country. All tax free! A total bargain.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Choosing the right neighborhood shapes your entire experience in Tokyo and matters a great deal. Each area has its own energy, pace, and personality, so it’s worth taking the time to match your home base with the kind of trip you want. Ginza and Otemachi put you right in the center of convenience, close to elegant shops and dining. Roppongi and Minato offer a quieter, more refined feel. Shibuya and Harajuku pack in youthful energy with calmer pockets just a short walk away. And Shinjuku stays practical and well connected, with hotels like the Hyatt Regency that make transit simple.
The options can feel overwhelming, which is exactly why working with a travel advisor helps so much. A good advisor will break down the nuances of each neighborhood and guide you toward the one that fits your style, your pace, your budget, and your plans.
Other things to know:
• Book airport transport in advance if possible. Taxi prices are high.
• Add a SUICA card to your phone for easy subway and train travel.
• Keep Google Translate handy.
• Be patient with kiosks and menus. Staff are kind, even when communication is imperfect.
Japan rewards flexibility and curiosity. Some things feel unfamiliar at first, but that sense of difference is exactly what makes it special. Go with an open mind, expect a bit of trial and error, and let yourself enjoy the experience as it unfolds.
We love Japan deeply and already look forward to returning. It is a place that enriches you every single day you’re there.
