5 Things I Regret During My Trip to Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara

Japan is a dream destination, and my trip to Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara was everything I hoped for almost. While the adventure was incredible, there were some mistakes and missed opportunities that I can't help but regret. Here's a fun, slightly dramatic recount of the 5 things I wish I had done differently. Hopefully, you can learn from my slip-ups and avoid making the same mistakes!

1. Skipping Early Mornings at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Ah, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the magical Instagram-worthy destination. I was so excited to visit, but I didn’t realize how important it was to go early. When I arrived at 10 a.m., the serene atmosphere I dreamed of was replaced by a sea of tourists with selfie sticks. I could barely enjoy the path, let alone snap a photo without 15 people in the background. Lesson learned: wake up early, even if you're on vacation!

2. Underestimating the Charm of Nara

Nara was adorable with its free-roaming deer and stunning temples, but I only allocated half a day for this charming city. Big mistake! By the time I finished marveling at Todai-ji Temple’s colossal Buddha and laughing at the cheeky deer bowing for crackers, I realized I barely scratched the surface. Kasuga Taisha Shrine and other hidden gems were left unexplored because I had to rush back. Regret level: 9/10.

3. Wearing the Wrong Shoes to Fushimi Inari Taisha

Climbing the famous red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha should have been a highlight of my trip, but it turned into a mini nightmare thanks to my poor choice of footwear. I thought, "How bad can it be?" and wore my stylish but flimsy sneakers. Spoiler alert: the trail is steep and long. By the time I reached halfway, I was limping, and by the time I got back down, my feet were begging for mercy. Next time: sturdy hiking shoes all the way.

4. Spending Too Much Time Shopping in Osaka

Osaka is a shopper’s paradise, and I fully embraced it. From Shinsaibashi’s trendy boutiques to quirky souvenirs in Dotonbori, I went all out. But in hindsight, I regret the hours spent in stores instead of exploring cultural gems like Osaka Castle’s surrounding park or Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. While my suitcase thanked me, I missed out on moments that could’ve made my trip richer.

5. Skipping Kyoto’s Evening Beauty

Kyoto transforms at night, and I had so many opportunities to experience its evening magic but I blew it. I was always too tired after full days of sightseeing to explore places like Gion or Pontocho Alley after dark. I missed the chance to spot geisha walking gracefully through Gion and to see the lantern-lit streets that give Kyoto its romantic vibe. If I could rewind time, I’d trade one extra hour of sleep for those enchanting evenings.

What I Learned

Travel isn’t just about doing things right; it’s also about embracing the things you didn’t. Every mistake is a story, every regret a lesson. So, whether it’s waking up earlier, packing smarter, or savoring a destination without rushing, my missteps in Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara have made me a better traveler.

To anyone planning their own trip to these amazing cities, take my regrets to heart and make your experience even better. And remember: no trip is perfect, but that’s what makes it unforgettable.

What about you? Have you made any travel mistakes you laugh about now? Let me know I’d love to swap regret stories!