Itinerary Help Needed
Planning my first trip to Japan, and seeking help to build a 2 week itinerary. I'm not particularly interested in visiting the major cities (aside from Kyoto). I'm much more interested in seeing the beautiful countryside, the temples and shrines, the ancient architecture, the forests and mountains, the rural gems. I'd like to enjoy onsen, and stay in a ryokan.
This trip has been a dream of mine for 20+ years. If anyone can provide recommendations, I'd greatly appreciate it.
*Edit: Sorry for not being more specific! I definitely have a list of places I'd like to see while there, but was hoping to hear from those who've already experienced Japan and have found some hidden gems in the more rural parts to add to my list.
I would love to hike the Nakasendo trail, explore the forests of Yakushima, visit the village of Shirakawa-go, spend a few days in Kyoto. I also believe Kyushu has much to offer, and am researching it now. I hope to see as much beautiful landscape, temples and shrines, and ancient architecture as possible. I'd love recommendations for shrines, temples, ryokans, etc!
I haven't decided on which month to visit yet. I know the summer can be brutal, but that might be the only chance I get to visit with my schedule being what it is.
I don't really have a budget. I've looked at airfare and the cost of some of the ryokan accommodations, so I'm piecing together a budget currently.