Japan Travel Guide: What I Wore, Where We Stayed & the Magic in Between

Okay ladies, let’s set the scene: Tokyo. 90 degrees. Jet lag creeping in. Me—half awake, blazer coat slung over one arm, iced matcha in the other. Japan had been on our family bucket list for 20 years, and finally—finally—we made it happen. From Tokyo to Kyoto and back, this trip was a blur of beauty, style, shopping, and so many unforgettable moments. If you’ve got Japan on your list, here’s everything I packed, loved, ate, and didn’t buy (still thinking about you, dream bag).

Planning a trip to Europe too? You’ll love my Mallorca Travel Guide.

The Japan Airlines Experience

We flew @japanairlines and I have to say—highly impressed. Spacious coach seats, spotless bathrooms, and food that was genuinely good (Häagen-Dazs included). It honestly felt like business class without the price tag.

Tip: I never fly without my cozy under-$100 cashmere wrap—see it here.

Best Hotels in Tokyo + Kyoto

Tokyo – Shinjuku

Minimal, modern, and serene—our Tokyo hotel was a hidden gem. Full-length mirrors (a must), cozy beds, and super walkable. Shoutout to @alyshatrahanstyle for the rec.

Kyoto – Ace Hotel Kyoto

Design-forward and so well-located. Rooms were moody and minimal but the atmosphere and food made up for it.

Want luxury? Try Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto or Four Seasons Kyoto

What to Do in Tokyo: Our Must-See List

We booked a full-day private city tour to kick off the trip and shake off the jet lag. Highly recommend.

Tokyo Highlights:

  • Senso-ji Temple

  • Nakamise Street snacks + shopping

  • The Imperial Palace

  • Shibuya Crossing

  • Harajuku window shopping

Jet lag = gone.

Outfit details from this day are linked in my Japan LTK roundup.

Luxury Shopping in Ginza + Dior Café Vibes

ALLU Ginza was a vintage dream—think Hermès, Chanel, Cartier, and yes, my dream Kelly bag. I didn’t buy it, but she’s burned into my memory.

Later, we found a Bordeaux-toned leather jacket and popped into Dior Café for bubbles and girl time while the boys went record hunting.

My full shopping outfits are shoppable in my Japan Travel Staples LTK post!

Don’t Miss: teamLab Borderless

One of the coolest places we’ve ever visited—an immersive art space of mirrors, motion, and light. The kids were mesmerized.

  • Allow 2+ hours

  • Book ahead

  • Wear light-reflecting neutrals for the best photos 😉

Looking for travel-friendly outfits? I’ve got a few in Everyday Favorites I Swear By.

What to Eat in Japan

  • Matcha soft serve from Asakusa

  • Ramen on every corner

  • Fresh mochi

  • Champagne mid-flight (a moment)

What To Pack for Japan in spring

Let’s be honest—packing for Japan is a whole vibe. I needed a wardrobe that was elevated but wearable, chic but functional. Between temple days, museum stops, shopping in Ginza, and long walks with the fam, every piece had to do the most.

I kept things neutral and layered—but added personality with pops of color and bold textures that gave the looks a little life. (Yes, I brought the red track pants. Yes, I wore leopard.)

Here’s the quick list of what worked:

Shop it all here → Japan Outfits + Travel Staples

Final Thoughts + Reader Tip

This trip was 20 years in the making—and absolutely worth it. From matcha soft serve to designer finds, Japan gave me everything I didn’t know I needed.

Planning your own stylish trip? Tell me what’s on your itinerary in the comments, or sign up here for more curated travel guides.

xoxo, Lucy

Lucy Hernandez