I just got back from a 3 week trip to Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. It was my first time to Japan. I had 2 weeks in Tokyo and 4 days in Kyoto. I wished I would have budgeted more time for Kyoto. I found it to be the traditional Japan I wanted to see.

The Nozomi (Shinkansen train) between Tokyo and Kyoto was right around 13,000 yen. It was a joy to ride. I went with unreserved seats and had no problems (4 of us traveled together). They are frequent so if you miss one just wait a few minutes.

Tokyo is massive and has a lot to take in but the major sites/districts can be seen fairly quickly via the subway but getting to know each area can take a lifetime. I highly recommend the Passmo card. It takes a 500 yen deposit but its nice to stick it in your wallet and just tap your wallet as you walk through the gates. Talk to one of the gate officers as you are leaving and you can get the deposit back.

Kyoto has old world charm. It has a lot of everything and they are sprinkled everywhere. I enjoyed the izakayas (small bars with the red lantern out front). Be sure to go to the temples in the northwest corner of the city. Tenryju (spelling) was fascinating to visit and there is a neat bamboo forest you can walk through. On the way back in be sure to catch the Golden Palace and the nightingale floors in the Nijo Jo were pretty cool with some amazing grounds. I missed the series of Tori gates down south but will have to hit them on a later trip.

Enjoy yourself. There is a ton to see and the people are incredibly friendly. Open a map and someone will come over to help. Ask for directions to a subway entrance and they will take you there. I can't wait to go back.