Since the price increase in 2023, the JR Pass is rarely worth it for the Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka route. Use an online calculator or just buy individual Shinkansen tickets.

While credit cards are widely accepted now, you should always carry 10,000–20,000 JPY in cash for small temples, ticket machines, and local shops.

Planning your first 2-week trip to Japan

Stick to the 'Golden Route' of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka to avoid spending your entire trip on trains. Use the Shinkansen (bullet train) between cities and pre-book your rail pass or individual tickets 30 days in advance.

Map your major stops. For a first-timer, stick to the 7-day or 14-day loop: Tokyo (5 days), Kyoto (4 days), Osaka (3 days), and a side trip to Nara or Hiroshima (2 days).
Book your flights into Tokyo and out of Osaka. Don't backtrack. Fly into Tokyo (NRT/HND) and fly home from Osaka (KIX). This saves you a 3-hour, $100 return train trip.
Secure your connectivity. Order a pocket Wi-Fi or an eSIM (like Airalo or Ubigi) before you land. You will need constant access to Google Maps for train transfers.
Book accommodations near major train stations. In Tokyo, stay near the Yamanote Line (Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ueno). In Kyoto, stay near Kyoto Station or Gion. Carrying luggage in Japan is difficult; stay within a 10-minute walk of a station.

Do I need a JR Pass?: Since the price increase in 2023, the JR Pass is rarely worth it for the Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka route. Use an online calculator or just buy individual Shinkansen tickets.
Is Japan cash-only?: While credit cards are widely accepted now, you should always carry 10,000–20,000 JPY in cash for small temples, ticket machines, and local shops.