What transportation options did the travelers use in Kyoto and Osaka?

Suica and Pasmo cards for trains, Ubiki eSIM for data, Charles Schwab debit card for cash.

What are some notable dining experiences the travelers had in Kyoto and Osaka?

Tried takoyaki, visited Kaiten sushi chain, enjoyed kushikatsu, and explored local eateries.

Imperial Palace, Heian Shrine, Gion, Osaka Castle, Fushimi Inari Shrine.

Opted for budget-friendly activities, utilized Suica cards, stayed in affordable accommodations.

Tried street food, rode a Ferris wheel, visited hidden Izakaya bar, explored Onsen.

Utilizing Suica and Pasmo cards for transportation, topping up with Apple Pay, and acquiring an eSIM for data in Japan showcase the travelers' efficient use of technology and local services to manage their budget effectively.
Exploring Kyoto and Osaka on a $100 per day budget highlights the feasibility of experiencing diverse cultural and culinary offerings while being mindful of expenses, emphasizing the value of strategic planning and prioritizing experiences within financial constraints.

What transportation options did the travelers use in Kyoto and Osaka?
Suica and Pasmo cards for trains, Ubiki eSIM for data, Charles Schwab debit card for cash.
What are some notable dining experiences the travelers had in Kyoto and Osaka?
Tried takoyaki, visited Kaiten sushi chain, enjoyed kushikatsu, and explored local eateries.
What are some key attractions the travelers visited in Kyoto and Osaka?
Imperial Palace, Heian Shrine, Gion, Osaka Castle, Fushimi Inari Shrine.
How did the travelers navigate their budget while exploring Kyoto and Osaka?
Opted for budget-friendly activities, utilized Suica cards, stayed in affordable accommodations.
What unique experiences did the travelers have in Kyoto and Osaka?
Tried street food, rode a Ferris wheel, visited hidden Izakaya bar, explored Onsen.

00:00

The travelers are in Kyoto and Osaka with a $100 per day budget for both of them.
They obtained Suica and Pasmo cards for transportation and topped up with 2,000 Yen using Apple Pay.
They acquired a Ubiki eSIM for $10 to have data in Japan and withdrew cash using a Charles Schwab debit card to avoid ATM fees.
The travelers bought food from a convenience store, took a train to the Imperial Palace, and tried takoyaki from a vending machine restaurant.
The Imperial Palace grounds in Kyoto are vast, free to enter, and offer guided tours in English and Japanese.
They visited a Kaiten sushi chain called Hello Sushi, enjoyed affordable sushi plates, and explored Kyoto along the river.
The travelers discovered the Heian Shrine, walked through Gion, and made a reservation at Kishikishi Omurice for a unique dining experience.
In Osaka, they day-tripped from Kyoto for $5, explored Osaka Castle, and utilized Suica cards for transportation.
They indulged in street food at Dotonbori, tried takoyaki from a popular spot, shopped at Don Quixote, and rode a unique Ferris wheel.
The travelers opted for a budget-friendly Ferris wheel ride for sunset views instead of the Umeda Sky Building, enjoying the experience despite initial fears.

22:20

Osaka is known as the kitchen of Japan, with kushikatsu being a must-try dish, consisting of fried meats and vegetables on a stick.
Found a hidden third-floor Izakaya bar/restaurant in Osaka offering kushikatsu at affordable prices, with an iPad ordering system in English.
Chose 10 skewers for 1480 Yen, with a variety of fried items like mushrooms, sardines, and red ginger, creating a mystery dining experience.
Learned about the unexpected seating fee at the Izakaya, akin to additional charges in the US, emphasizing the importance of understanding the system.
Returned to Kyoto after a night out in Osaka, highlighting the importance of catching the last train at 11:30 pm to avoid a 5 am train ride.
Stayed in a budget-friendly hotel in Kyoto for 55 Yen per night, providing a consistent place to leave belongings and return to after exploring.
Rented e-bikes in Kyoto for 2000 Yen each, exploring the city and visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine, enjoying the quiet paths and beautiful scenery.
Stopped for lunch at Masumino Sando for sandwiches priced at 400 Yen each, showcasing the convenience and affordability of local eateries.
Explored the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, paying 1000 Yen for entry, and marveled at its beauty and the changes in its intention and atmosphere over time.
Ended the day with the best ice cream in Japan, green tea flavor, and reflected on the importance of budget travel and showcasing real experiences.

45:36

Spa World in Osaka is an eight-floor Onsen relaxation facility with incredible restaurants.
The process of going to an Onsen can be intimidating for first-timers due to rules and nudity.
A hotel in Nagasaki allowed filming in their Onsen to demonstrate the process.
Attire for an Onsen includes a chic robe provided by the hotel and slippers.
Shoes are stored in lockers with a 100 Yen coin slot; cameras are not allowed in Onsens.
Onsen and Cento are two types of public baths, with Onsen having locally sourced water.
Before entering the bath, a shower is necessary using provided shampoos.
Onsen baths may have milky water with bubbly elements, requiring a shower after.
Drying off before leaving the bath area is essential to avoid wetting the entryway.
Over budget in Kyoto and Nara, but experiences like sake tasting and exploring were deemed worth it.