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Itinerary and Expenses for Kyoto and Tokyo Trip

I spent around 5 days for my Kyoto-Tokyo trip during autumn in 2015. It was nice to see the changing colors of the trees and the cool weather. I also learned a lot from a country that is decades ahead of the Philippines.



Expenses

*Everything's in Japanese Yen

1880 - Train to Kyoto from Airport
8770 - Food and Drinks
5600 - Two Nights Khaosan World Asakusa
3000 - One Night Khaosan Kyoto Theater
4000 - One Night Drop Inn Hostel Osaka
150 - Towel Rent
7940 - Transportation
560 - Train to Osaka from Kyoto
600 - Nijo Castle Fee
400 - Kinkaku-ji Temple Fee
500 - Ryoan-ji Temple Fee
500 - Ginkaku-ji Temple Fee
640 - Osaka to Itami Airport Bus
660 - Haneda Airport to Asakusa Train Station
1190 - Tokyo to Narita Airport                           
36390 - Total for 5 days and 4 nights Osaka-Tokyo (flights not included, because prices may vary depending on when you purchase tickets), which is roughly P15500.

*I didn't include expenses such as souvenirs, pasalubong and other items that are variables, because not everyone will spend the same way. One tip for shopping is always bring your passport with you, you'll get a discount when you reach a certain amount of total purchases.

*I regret not taking the bullet train, but I always wanted to try a premier airline such as Japan Airlines for the Osaka-Tokyo connection, and not the usual low-cost carriers I book. I also wanted to see Haneda (in Tokyo) and Itami (in Osaka) Airport. It's safe to say the Philippines is decades behind this Asian power in terms of infrastructure.

*Hyperdia is a helpful site that allows you to see transportation costs and lines to take when traveling in Japan.

Getting a Visa

Filipinos need a visa to enter the country, here's how I got mine: Japan visa guide.

Thoughts About Japan


Japan wasn't originally in my must-visit countries list because there is no question about it being an expensive destination (food's around P200++ per meal, even if you eat at local restaurants and even if you take the trains, it'll easily and quickly add up). However, I made my decision to visit to see friends I've met while traveling. It's good to stay in touch even if you live in different time zones.






Despite their modernization, Japan managed to keep its history connected to its modern way of living. They preserved certain ways of life and values, and old historical structures amidst shopping districts and skyscrapers.

Traveling to this country gave me ideas of what the Philippines could be. Our national hero, Jose Rizal, stayed in this country for some time during his trips abroad. There is a connection between Japan and the Philippines, because of our shared history (yes, including a bloody World War 2). There is a lot to learn from the Japanese, maybe we can learn how they rose above their own feudal past and become the country they are today.


What's Your Next Stop?

You might be interested in visiting other places in Japan, here are some suggestions:



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