Thanks armswar88! Really excited about this trip. Now I’m going to do some research on everything you just told me while listening to some jpop to get motivated.

Nice! I’ll definitely add those places you mentioned on my list to visit. Do you know if JR pass covers most of Tokyo and Kyoto area or do I need to purchase separate local subway/bus pass?? That JR pass was not cheap.. Hope it covers most of my transportation needs. =D

I’m going to Japan in about 2 weeks and will be staying in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara. Any places that I should definitely visit while I’m in those cities? I know I must stop by Akihabara but I’m really interested in seeing places that are considered “hidden treasures” that only local people might know? =D