Sandra's Tips and Tricks for Visiting Japan...
If you want to buy a genuine kimono, for instance, it's pricey but you can find secondhand ones in Tokyo's Asakusa district (it's touristy but Japanese people don't wear secondhand so vintage kimonos are really meant for us
If you want to buy a genuine kimono, for instance, it's pricey but you can find secondhand ones in Tokyo's Asakusa district (it's touristy but Japanese people don't wear secondhand so vintage kimonos are really meant for us). I scored a secondhand yukata for just 40 euros!
There are also all sorts of other souvenirs:
- If you're drawn to modern Japan, there's Akihabara, where you'll find tech gear and everything manga-related! Plus cosplayers roaming the streets. Shinjuku with its imposing city hall.
In Kyoto, head to Gion, the geisha district, where you'll likely spot some, especially in May. You'll have the chance to attend tea ceremonies. The temples are stunning but most charge admission. Gion is quite touristy as well.
Otherwise, make the most of this extraordinary journey!
Frequently asked questions
Asakusa district in Tokyo is ideal for finding secondhand kimonos and yukatas at reduced prices. Japanese people rarely wear vintage traditional clothing, so these items often end up with tourists. It's possible to find a secondhand yukata starting from around 40 euros.
Akihabara is the must-visit district for Japanese geek culture enthusiasts. You'll find numerous electronics shops, stores dedicated to manga and anime, as well as cosplayers roaming the streets. It's the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs related to Japanese pop culture.
To have a chance of spotting geishas, visit Gion district in Kyoto. This historic neighborhood is particularly lively in May, when encounters are more frequent. You can also attend tea ceremonies and visit magnificent temples, most of which charge admission.
Yes, most temples and shrines in Kyoto charge admission. Entry fees typically range between 500 and 1,000 yen. It's advisable to set aside a specific budget for cultural visits and prioritize the most iconic sites based on your interests.
