Hi all!

So I posted here not too long ago, asking which area I should couple with Akihabara when visiting Japan for the first time.

This is my itinerary so far:

Landing day:

Quick stroll in Shibuya (hachiko, Shibuya scramble, Shibuya parco, moiyai statue). Grab a bite somewhere there, maybe conveyor belt. I haven't looked up food that much.

1st official day:

Meiji jingu, takeshita street

Harajuku

Shibuya sky at sunset

Hopefully(?) dogenzaka

2nd official day:

Asakusa (kaminarimon, nakamise Dori, senso ji..)

Hoppy street

Kappabashi kitchen supply town

If possible - sumida River walk

3rd official day:

Teamlabs planets at 9 am

Tsukiji market right afterwards

Hamarikyu gardens (only if possible)

Evening:

Shinjuku (giant cat, omoide yokocho, Godzilla head, maybe golden gai).

4th official day:

Imperial palace? Ginza? Not done yet.

Days after Kyoto - 2 days left:

5th official day:

Ueno

Akihabara

Then what? Nakano? Still don't know what to do here. Akihabara in the morning or evening? Confused about this day.

6th official day:

Dunno. Haven't gotten this far lol.

Would love y'alls help! Especially with the days that are still very bare bones.

My husband and I are traveling to Japan for our honeymoon and staying for the month of November. I have visited the golden route before, but he has not been to Japan at all. I have read the Lonely Plant guide book cover to cover, and have a decent idea of cities we are interested in visiting. Our pace while traveling is fairly aggressive, so staying 2 nights in each location is considered slower for us.

Trip Priorities:

• Great food, both budget-friendly and high-end
• Upscale onsens or rustic onsens with breathtaking scenery (prefer co-ed or private)
• Ease of public transit by train (open to private car hires for day trips, or a few transfers)
• Nature, fall foliage, and relaxation
• Walkable cities with culture

I am looking for feedback on whether we should do the itinerary below, or travel to Takaragawa before Kanazawa, then add Ogoto Onsen as a stop to break up the Hiroshima leg. I originally cut Takaragawa due to Trip Advisor reviews talking about how the hotel felt run down, but would love to hear other experiences. We also looked into Okuhida Onsen, but it felt difficult to get to.

I would also love to hear any other feedback on cities we should visit instead. We are not completely sold on Kanazawa, Takayama, Gero Onsen, or Amanohashidate. We would like to keep Tokyo, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Osaka, Kinosaki, and Kyoto.

I put in a few details for what we will do in each city so that the post gets approved, but honestly we are not ready to plan to that level right now and are looking for overall itinerary feedback. However, if there is a must-do activity, please feel free to let us know.

Tokyo — Shibuya (4 nights)

• Oct 30 (Thu): Arrive Narita, transfer to Shibuya, settle in. Easy dinner nearby, early night to fight jet lag.
• Oct 31 (Fri): Shibuya Crossing, Shibuya Sky, Harajuku/Takeshita Street, Meiji Shrine, Omotesando for dinner.
• Nov 1 (Sat): Shinjuku — Golden Gai, Omoide Yokocho for cheap eats, Shinjuku Gyoen for early foliage, izakaya dinner.
• Nov 2 (Sun): Asakusa (Senso-ji), Sumida River walk, Ueno Park foliage + museums, evening back in Shibuya.

Tokyo — Toranomon Hills (4 nights)

• Nov 3 (Mon): Nikko day trip — Toshogu Shrine, Shinkyo Bridge, Kegon Falls/Lake Chuzenji if time allows for foliage. Check into Toranomon Hills. 
• Nov 4 (Tue): Explore neighborhood, Tokyo Tower views, high-end dinner.
• Nov 5 (Wed): Ginza (upscale shopping/food), teamLab Planets or Borderless, sushi lunch at Tsukiji Outer Market.
• Nov 6 (Thu): Akihabara  — Electronics and anime shops (Yodobashi, Mandarake), retro arcade at Super Potato, Kanda Myojin Shrine, evening under the neon on Chuo-dori.
• Nov 7 (Fri): Shinkansen to Kanazawa.

Kanazawa (3 nights)

• Nov 7 (Fri): Arrive, check in. Omicho Market for dinner, stroll Kazuemachi Chaya district at night.
• Nov 8 (Sat): Kenrokuen Garden (fall foliage), Kanazawa Castle, Higashi Chaya District, Nagamachi Samurai District.
• Nov 9 (Sun): Shirakawa-go day trip — gassho-zukuri farmhouses, viewpoint hike, back for dinner in Kanazawa.
• Nov 10 (Mon): Depart for Takayama.

Takayama (2 nights)

• Nov 10 (Mon): Arrive, walk the Old Town (Sanmachi Suji), sake brewery tasting, riverside evening stroll.
• Nov 11 (Tue): Takayama morning markets, Hida Folk Village, Hida beef lunch/dinner.
• Nov 12 (Wed): Depart for Gero Onsen.

Gero Onsen (2 nights)

• Nov 12 (Wed): Arrive, check into ryokan, soak in onsen, riverside foot baths, kaiseki dinner.
• Nov 13 (Thu): Relax morning, optional Gero Gassho Village, more onsen time, second soak before dinner.
• Nov 14 (Fri): Depart for Hiroshima (long travel day via shinkansen).

Hiroshima (2 nights)

• Nov 14 (Fri): Arrive, Peace Memorial Park and Museum, evening Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.
• Nov 15 (Sat): Hiroshima Castle, Shukkeien Garden foliage, local food crawl.
• Nov 16 (Sun): Ferry to Miyajima.

Miyajima (2 nights)

• Nov 16 (Sun): Arrive, Itsukushima Shrine floating torii, wander the town, grilled oysters/momiji manju.
• Nov 17 (Mon): Mt. Misen hike or ropeway, Momijidani Park foliage, sunset over the torii gate.
• Nov 18 (Tue): Ferry + train to Osaka.

Osaka (4 nights)

• Nov 18 (Tue): Arrive, Dotonbori for street food (takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu).
• Nov 19 (Wed): Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, upscale dinner in Umeda or Namba.
• Nov 20 (Thu): Nara day trip — Todai-ji, deer park, Nara Park foliage.
• Nov 21 (Fri): Flex/relax day — spa, shopping, or revisit favorite food spots.
• Nov 22 (Sat): Depart for Amanohashidate.

Amanohashidate (3 nights)

• Nov 22 (Sat): Arrive, chairlift/cable car to viewpoint for the sandbar view, seaside walk.
• Nov 23 (Sun): Bike or walk across the sandbar, local seafood lunch, onsen soak.
• Nov 24 (Mon): Ine day trip — funaya boathouses, boat cruise, seafood lunch.
• Nov 25 (Tue): Depart for Kinosaki Onsen.

Kinosaki Onsen (3 nights) — Hotel booked

• Nov 25 (Tue): Arrive, check in, do first of the 7 public bathhouses (onsen-hopping in yukata).
• Nov 26 (Wed): More onsen-hopping, riverside strolls, matsuba crab kaiseki dinner (in season).
• Nov 27 (Thu): Relax, final onsen visits, willow-lined canal walk at dusk.
• Nov 28 (Fri): Depart for Kyoto.

Kyoto (6 nights) — Hotel booked

• Nov 28 (Fri): Arrive, check in, easy evening in Gion, riverside dinner.
• Nov 29 (Sat): Fushimi Inari torii gates (early morning to beat crowds), Kyoto Station area.
• Nov 30 (Sun): Arashiyama — bamboo grove, Tenryu-ji, foliage along the river, Togetsukyo Bridge.
• Dec 1 (Mon): Kiyomizu-dera, Higashiyama District walk, Ninenzaka/Sannenzaka streets.
• Dec 2 (Tue): Philosopher's Path foliage, Nanzen-ji, Ginkaku-ji.
• Dec 3 (Wed): Flex day — Nishiki Market food crawl, last-minute shopping, high-end farewell dinner (kaiseki).
• Dec 4 (Thu): Depart from Osaka (transfer from Kyoto), fly home.

Thank you for making this far and I appreciate any feedback!

Hello! My wife and I along with my 2 kids (4 and 13) will be traveling to Japan next week. Can you guys critique the itinerary we came up with? Specifically, I wanted to know if we packed too much in during Day 3. Thank you!

Day 1: Wednesday, July 15

• Arrive at Haneda Airport
• Train to hotel in Shinagawa

Day 2: Thursday, July 16

• Asakusa for Sensō-ji Temple
• Tokyo Skytree

Day 3: Friday, July 17

• Meiji Jingu Shrine (including Dai-Torii Gate)
• Harajuku
• Shinjuku
• Shibuya Crossing/Shibuya Sky

Day 4: Saturday, July 18

• Ochanomizu’s "Guitar Street"
• Shibuya

Day 5: Sunday, July 19

• Mt. Fuji day trip

Day 6: Monday, July 20

• TeamLab Borderless (MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM)
• Imperial Palace
• Ginza
• Dragon Ball Store

Day 7: Tuesday, July 21 (Cirilla’s Birthday!)

• Tokyo Disneyland

Day 8: Wednesday, July 22

• Shinkansen to Kyoto

Day 9: Thursday, July 23

• Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine
• Gion District
• Kyoto Tower

Day 10: Friday, July 24

• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
• Arashiyama Monkey Park
• Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion)
• Gion District

Day 11: Saturday, July 25

• Nara Park
• Tōdai-ji Temple

Day 12: Sunday, July 26

• Osaka Castle
• Dotonbori
• Tombori River Walk
• Ebisubashi Bridge

Day 13: Monday, July 27

• Kyoto free day

Day 14: Tuesday, July 28-31

• Tokyo Akihabara and more of Tokyo

Hello everyone,

I apologize if this thread is deemed low-effort, but I really don't know where else to ask is.

Six weeks from now I'll be visiting Japan for the 4th time. I would like to visit some of the least-populated/ least-visited areas, and I also really enjoy cycling (and swimming).

In this regard I was struck with the idea to visit Shimane prefecture and cycle along its coast, staying in different towns along the way. The duration for this particular part of my trip would last about one week, starting in Matsue.

My question was about renting a bycicle there (I don't feel like taking one with me all the way from Europe). Has anyone done something similar or have experience renting bycicles for longer periods in less visited areas like this?

Any thoughts or tips are appreciated.

Thank you!

Will be traveling to Japan during October. I saw a post saying Yoshimatsu was a great Ryokan in Hakone to visit. It seems Booking.com doesn't have open reservations for it during October, and I'm wondering why. If anyone also has any great suggestions for Ryokans in Hakone as well, please let me know.

Hello ! This is my first time ever making a post like this on any platform, let alone Reddit 🤗

I'm looking for advice and tips for my trip to Japan next year. I'm currently 19, but I'll be 20 when I travel. I'm planning a 2 week solo trip, arriving on April 11 and departing on April 25. I have a rough itinerary planned, but I'd love to hear any suggestions, recommendations, or if there are any glaring issues ❤️

The Plan :

Tokyo: 6 days

Kyoto: 3 days

Osaka: 5 days ( though it's really about 4 full days because I'll be departing on the fifth day )

Tokyo

• April 11: Arrive in Tokyo, check into my hotel, get settled, and do a little exploring
• April 12: Visit Akihabara, Ueno Park, and Ameyoko Shopping Street
• April 13: Visit Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree
• April 14: Visit the Ghibli Museum, Kichijōji, and Inokashira Park
• April 15: Visit Tokyo Tower, Meiji Jingu, Harajuku, and Takeshita Street
• April 16: Free day in Tokyo. I'm planning to visit Tokyo Character Street and teamLab Planets, then pack for Kyoto later in the day

Kyoto

• April 17: Arrive in Kyoto. If time allows after checking in, visit Kiyomizu-dera, Sannenzaka, and Fushimi Inari Taisha
• April 18: Explore Arashiyama
• April 19: More exploring ! I’m planning to visit Kinkaku-ji, Kōdai-ji, Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji, and Nanzen-ji. I’ll pack for Osaka in the evening

Osaka

• April 20: Arrive in Osaka. Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, then explore Dotonbori later in the afternoon or evening
• April 21: Universal Studios Japan ( planning to spend the entire day there )
• April 22: Explore Nipponbashi and Namba
• April 23: Nara day trip 🦌 Planning to visit Tōdai-ji and Kasuga Taisha
• April 24: Last minute shopping and sightseeing before packing for my flight home 🙁

I'd really appreciate any advice ! Does anything seem too ambitious or too light ? Are there any places you'd recommend adding, removing, or swapping ? Since this is my first solo international trip, I'd also love any general Japan travel tips, especially regarding getting around, recommended rail or transit passes, and the best way to manage and use money while I'm there 😄

Hey everybody! After reading through some of the replies on my last post about Tokyo, I made those adjustments and am looking for any more feedback for the 2nd leg of our trip to Osaka. Thanks in advance for any advice/feedback you may have!

August 7th: Arrive in Osaka. Walk to Dotonbori. Explore, eat. Cup noodle museum? Shopping, massage?

August 8th: Shittenoji Temple, walk to Shinsekai and eat street food, go to Tsutenkaku Tower? Osaka Castle, go back to the dotonbori area, Eat, then nightlife? Go to izekayas, Space bar (Gaming bar) dancing @ Girraffe, Bar hopping at Pink Elephant.

August 9th: Universal Studios? Or day trip to Nara? Both? Nara in the AM to visit the shrine, USJ in the afternoon/evening to see One Piece stuff? (Nakatanidou in Nara is traditional Mochi making we can watch). (If we don’t do USJ, we can do Kuroman Ichiba Market and Osaka Kizu Market + other shopping/night life)

August 10th: We leave for Kyoto! (Final Part 3 of our trip!)

I know that Osaka is a good place to eat a bunch of great food, so any recommendations you may have would be greatly appreciated! I am also just looking for options of other things to do besides eat/shop, so if you have experiences we should look into, let me know!

Hey everyone,

So a couple of days back I made a post in @Japantraveltips for a 16 days travel itinerary. Right here - https://www.reddit.com/r/JapanTravelTips/s/Ar0PFnMjqB

I got many suggestions and a couple of good, helpful ideas from that post.

Today, I wanted to present you with my 2nd iteration of the plan. Please do let me know if this looks okay, and help me to make it more *well-rounded*.

First and foremostly, what are my goals -

1. Visit Japan via the golden route, with some detours here and there.

2. The trip should be more culture focused for the most part. ( Night life or the newer Japan is also a part of it, just in lower quantities )

3. Comfort is a top priority. And I am not just talking about the hotel or Onsen, etc. I am talking about having rest time between travels or ways in which we can make the trip, more pleasant and comfy!

With that being said, here's my initial plan -

DAY 1,2 - Tokyo. ( Hotel checkin - 1 )

Day 3 - Tokyo Disneyland.

Day 4 - Day trip to Kamakura + Enoshima ( combined, and yes, please feel free to suggest the "good, better, best" places for this )

Return to Tokyo at night.

Day 5,6 - Hakone. ( Hotel checkin - 2 )

Spend 2 days here.

Purpose - Onsen soaking ( resting ) + Chance to Watch Mt. Fuji + smaller sight seeing opportunities.

Day 7 - Move to Kawaguchiko from Hakone for Mt. Fuji. Do the famous photo op and pretty much get out. This is purely to have a better chance of viewing Mt. Fuji, in case we miss it in Hakone.

Return to Hakone, at night. Or, stay over there ( you guys please help me with this )

Day 8,9 - Continue to Kiso Valley from Hakone. (Hotel checkin - 3 )

Travel to Magome ( I know it would take a long time to reach there ) and then spend whatever time that's left to stroll around and experience the town. Stay the night over there ; Followed by day 2, where we do the Nakasendo trail before heading to Kyoto ( this is surely a long day, but oh well )

Day 10,11,12 - ( Hotel checkin - 4 )

From day 10, experience Kyoto.

This is again, purely cultural and contemplative. 3 days is not enough, and I know that but still.

Day 13,14 - while staying at Kyoto, visit Osaka as a day trip (2 times) - mainly to cover the nightlife aspects of Japan, as well as experiencing some good dishes.

Day 15 - Tokyo ( again ) ( hotel checkin - 5 )

This is for buying merches (both anime and otherwise ) - will mostly spend my time in Akihabara or Nakano Broadway.

Day 16 - open. This is where you guys can either suggest me some other places to visit or suggest me if I need to change/restructure my plan in any way. Mainly, an open spot for doing some quick reshuffle.

Tell me what do you guys think about this little plan of mine. Keep in mind, I am traveling there with my partner so again, comfort is a key-lookout.

Additionally, please suggest some good accommodations if you can ( and if possible, keep it under 100/110 dollars per night for the both of us ) as well as some activities.

And lastly, thanks to every one of you, in advance. ❤️

Hi there, y’all!
As this was my third time visiting this amazing country, let me share a few thoughts about my recent trip. Since it was my third visit, things got a little complicated when trying to design a one-of-a-kind itinerary.

Advice: You might find some of my comments a bit controversial.

Dates: We were there from June 15th until July 3rd.
Flights: MAD (Spain) to NRT (Narita) via IST (Turkey). Very pleased with the service. Comfortable plane and great food. $700 round trip. 2 bags max, 23 kg per person.

THE ITINERARY

Initial Plan: 3 days Tokyo, 5 days Hokkaido, 4 days in Kyushu, 2 days in Busan (South Korea), and 3 days in Tokyo again.

Actual Route: 3 days in Tokyo, 5 days in Hokkaido, 1 DAY IN FUKUOKA, 9 days in Tokyo.
Locations visited: Tokyo (Jindai-ji, Koenji, Kichijoji, Chofu), Nikko, Sapporo, Otaru, Noboribetsu, Fukuoka, Kawagoe, Kanazawa, Enoshima, Yokohama, Kawasaki, Chiba, Narita. (Canceled: Yufuin, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Busan).

WEATHER

Well, let’s say this time almost everything happened. We already knew it was the rainy season, but that wasn’t a problem for us.
The first three days in Tokyo, there was no rain. It wasn't too hot, maybe a little chilly? Sapporo had perfect weather—no rain, just beautiful sunny days.

Then, two typhoons hit Southern Japan. I don’t know if we made the right call, but we decided to change our itinerary as soon as we arrived in Fukuoka. The TV news said we should expect some horrible weather, which meant no day trips. So we decided (and now I’m regretting that decision) to take a flight back to Tokyo, as we were worried we wouldn't be able to fly to Busan or get back to Tokyo later.

Let's just say we come from a country without this kind of weather, so it was a little scary for us.

But then... 9 days in Tokyo. Rain, rain, rain, rain, oh—one sunny day—and then rain and rain again.

So, keep it in mind: you might get lucky and have dry holidays, or you might get wet ones. Even with the rain, the weather was hot—not unmanageable, but a humid 29°C. Since we come from a part of Spain where it can rain non-stop for months, the rain itself wasn't an issue. Just grab an umbrella and you'll be fine. The real problem... was the people.

TRANSPORTATION
Even though I have a driver's license, I'm not used to driving on the left, so we relied on public transportation. No regrets.

On past trips, we used the Shinkansen a lot (the Golden Route the first time, and the Hokuriku Arch Pass last year—amazing!). This year, we gave domestic flights a chance. Let’s just say everything was incredibly smooth. I’m not used to that in Europe, where flying can turn into a difficult ritual. Here, it felt like taking a bus... with wings! Comfortable, fast, and easy.

We tried Peach and JetStar (Peach is kawaii and JetStar is convenient). Good prices. They didn't have strict controls on liquids or carry-ons, but they are very VERY STRICT with luggage weight.

TRIP REVIEW & BASES

Base 1: Tokyo (First Part)
Hotel: Toyoko Inn Asakusa Kuramae 2. We love the Kuramae Station area. Very convenient and quiet at night.
Since it was our third time, we didn’t want to spend too much time in central Tokyo. Don't get me wrong, I love Tokyo, BUT it has a major issue with tourism. Forget about enjoying spots like Senso-ji, Akihabara, or Ikebukuro... I know, I KNOW they are the main tourist spots, but we wanted to give them a chance anyway.

First day trip (Jindai-ji - Koenji - Kichijoji - Chofu): Reasonable amount of tourism. Not too packed. Nice places and great spots.

Second day trip (Nikko): It was perfect. Packed with Chinese tourists, but manageable. Beautiful spots. We decided to do Nikko as a day trip and have no regrets. Sunny days and a perfect, very relaxing, and peaceful place. We took the Spacia X and purchased the Nikko World Heritage Pass for the buses.

HOKKAIDO
Base: Tokyu REI Hotel Susukino (our first time staying at a Tokyu REI). Great location and amazing staff. Average, Japanese-style rooms, but clean and comfortable.

We loved Susukino. It’s empty by day and packed at night, but totally manageable. We absolutely loved Sapporo—the atmosphere, the people, and the city. It's very accessible even without a car. Odori Park is amazing, Mt. Moiwa is a must, and the Sapporo Beer Museum is great. It's a very friendly city with plenty of convenience stores.

Otaru: A tourist hotspot, but it deserves a day trip. Very easy to visit. Amazing streets and beautiful canals. Give this city a chance; don’t just stick to the canal and the main street—explore the rest of it. Must-try: LeTao cheesecake. AMAZING.

Noboribetsu: Even though we are not "onsen people," we loved this day trip. We were practically alone on the bus. It was great to explore and wander around. We discovered an amazing gyoza place. Not much tourism. Jigokudani Valley, Oyunuma Pond, and the Oyunuma River are well worth a visit, even in summer. They must be incredible in winter.

Jozankei: We took it out of our plans because some locals in Sapporo told us that if we enjoyed Noboribetsu, Jozankei would feel like more of the same, and that it's only truly worth it in autumn.

KYUSHU

Base: Fukuoka - Livemax Hakata Ekimae

Well... we only had one day in Fukuoka because we freaked out and left for Tokyo. But let me say, it is an amazing city. We loved the vibe, the people were incredibly cool, and it's a really enjoyable city that balances tradition and innovation. Great spots. We loved the Yatai (food stalls).
Even with the clock ticking, I think it’s a city where you can easily spend 1 or 2 days. The reason we left was that a typhoon was hitting the area, and the news showed warnings for the days we were supposed to stay. We thought we would run out of things to do inside the city, especially since we found out later that the trains to Yufuin, Nagasaki, and Kumamoto had been canceled. :(

TOKYO (PART 2)

Base: Mystays Asakusa. Even though we had to deal with renovation works, we loved this place. The rooms come with a microwave and feel like tiny mini-homes. Friendly staff.

As I said, there might be some controversial takes here. This was our 3rd time visiting the city; we had already seen the main sights and found it hard to find new places. However, after rearranging things due to the weather, we decided to give another chance to places we had been to before.

Kamakura & Enoshima: We decided to give this area another chance, and we have zero regrets. Sunny day. Perfect. Do yourself a favor and DON'T FOLLOW THE CROWDS—get lost in the area. Yes, visit the main streets, the Great Buddha, and the shrine, but I felt like I discovered a completely different Kamakura this time just by wandering around.

We tried to take the Enoden line and... well, you know those videos of rush hour in Tokyo? This was WORSE! And it wasn't even the weekend. So we decided to get off at Hase and walk all the way to Enoshima. It was perfect. We discovered so many spots and didn't suffer from the overcrowding.

Enoshima: Loved this island. If it’s your first time, take the stairs; if not, use the escalators. The Sea Candle is amazing.

Kawagoe: Decided to repeat this one too. Just like with Kamakura: don’t follow the crowds, just walk around. It never disappoints. The main spots were packed, though.
Narita and Chiba: This was an amazing experience and discovery. I had always heard about it, but the Narita-san Temple was AMAZING. Lots of nature and almost no one there. We took notes to repeat this one.

Yokohama and Kawasaki: This was a NIGHTMARE. People everywhere! And what happens when you mix tons of people with tons of rain? Yes, a perfect disaster. I had been to Yokohama before last July and enjoyed it, but not this time.

TOKYO ITSELF & THOUGHTS ON OVERTOURISM

Well... I don't know if it was because it was our third time, but I was still able to enjoy the city in a different way. Don't get me wrong, this time we discovered lots of new, uncrowded neighborhoods like Chuo, Nihonbashi, and Tsukuda.

BUT IKEBUKURO? SHINJUKU? What is wrong with people?! I know I'm writing this as a tourist myself, but please, JAPAN IS NOT YOUR AMUSEMENT PARK!

As a tourist, I always read a lot about the places I’m going to visit. I probably still make mistakes, but I always try to show respect to the country, its people, and THEIR TRADITIONS!

You can’t stand in the middle of Senso-ji shouting and making a video call as if you were pe**ng on the stairs just to be funny... Or mess around with the fortune sticks just to get social media likes... Or get on the train and SHOUT as if no one else is around...

Japanese people are furious with tourists because so many behave like they are at home. But you are not. Please, do yourself a favor and read a little bit about the etiquette of the country you are visiting.

I was really upset this time because I couldn't enjoy certain parts of the city like I did on past trips. This is getting out of hand, and the Japanese government will regret not being stricter with laws and regulations. You can easily spot the difference between Tokyo and places like Sapporo, Fukuoka, or Toyama.

I think people are using Japan just as an "Instagram trip" experience, completely missing the point of discovering this amazing country. I know many people can only do this trip once in their lifetime and feel forced to hit the main spots... but they are missing what matters most about Japan.

Do yourself and everyone else a favor: PLEASE, MIND OTHERS AND BEHAVE.

Hey everyone! Following up on my previous post,

Instead of spending my first night in Tokyo, I am hopping on straight to Osaka right after landing at HND after everyones recommendations and I tried to squeeze Nijo Castle and the Sumida Hokusai Museum.

Day 1 (Jul 8): The Long Haul. Land at HND (14:30). Clear customs, hop on the Keikyu line to Shinagawa, and take the Shinkansen straight to Osaka. Check into Kitahama hotel around 20:00. Crash.

Day 2 (Jul 9): Osaka Full Day. Kuromon Market (morning), Osaka Castle, then Dotonbori, Namba, Yasaka Jinja, and Shinsekai in the evening.

Day 3 (Jul 10): USJ. Full day at Universal Studios

Day 4 (Jul 11): Kyoto Hustle. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji. Note: The AI suggested cutting the Sagano Romantic Train from my plan so I have time to cab to Kinkaku-ji and then do Nijo Castle before it closes at 16:00! Evening: Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, and Gion.

Day 5 (Jul 12): Nara. Fushimi Inari in the AM (skipping the full hike due to heat). Nara Park, Todai-ji, Naramachi. Taking the luxury Aoniyoshi back to Osaka.

Day 6 (Jul 13): Tokyo Return & Festivals back to Tokyo. Check into Asakusa hotel. Visit Senso-ji, then head to the Sumida Hokusai Museum nearby. Late afternoon: Skytree. Evening: Mitama Matsuri at Yasukuni Shrine.

Day 7 (Jul 14): HP & Odaiba. Akasaka (Harry Potter station & Time Turner stairs), Hie Shrine. Ginza for Itoya (12-floor stationery!) & Uniqlo. Afternoon: teamLab Planets & Odaiba sunset.

Day 8 (Jul 15): West Tokyo Vibes. Tokyo Camii, Yoyogi Park, Meiji Jingu. Walk down Cat Street (skipping crowded Takeshita), Shibuya Crossing. Evening: Shinjuku (Godzilla, Omoide Yokocho).

Day 9 (Jul 16): Vintage & Anime. Daikanyama morning coffee. Koenji for vintage clothes (skipping Shimokitazawa for this), Nakano Broadway for retro anime. Evening: Ueno Summer Festival and Akihabara.

Day 10 (Jul 17): Departure. Last minute tax-free shopping around Asakusa/Ginza. Head to HND at 17:30.

Questions:

Did I make the right call dropping the Sagano Romantic Train to ensure I have enough time for Nijo Castle (Day 4)?

OR

swapping the order of Tokyo and Osaka for festivals

​Instead of heading straight to Osaka, I'm staying in Tokyo first to catch the Kamakura Fireworks and Harumi Bon Odori, then doing Osaka/Kyoto, and finally rushing back to Tokyo for the Mitama Matsuri.

​I’m trying to balance these festivals with some specific interests (Harry Potter spots, vintage shopping, halal food, and some hidden gems). I used some Ai for this.

​Day 1 (Jul 8): Arrival. Land at HND (14:30). Check into Tokyo hotel, rest, and grab some konbini food.

​Day 2 (Jul 9): Asakusa & Vintage. Senso-ji early. Then Koenji for vintage clothing (heard it's better/cheaper than Shimokitazawa) and Nakano Broadway for retro anime. Evening: Ueno Summer Festival (wind chimes & street food) and Akihabara.

​Day 3 (Jul 10): Shibuya & Fireworks. Yoyogi Park, Meiji Jingu, Harajuku (Cat Street), Shibuya Crossing. Late afternoon: Train to Kamakura for the Kamakura Fireworks Festival on the beach.

​Day 4 (Jul 11): HP, Art & Bon Odori. Akasaka (Harry Potter station/Time Turner stairs), Ginza (Itoya stationery & Uniqlo). Afternoon: teamLab Planets & Odaiba.

Evening: Harumi Bon Odori Festival by the bay.

​Day 5 (Jul 12): Enoshima & Shinjuku. Day trip for the Enoshima Tenno Festival (mikoshi in the ocean).

Evening: Head back to Tokyo for Shinjuku (Godzilla, 3D Cat, Omoide Yokocho).

​Day 6 (Jul 13): Kansai Shift. Early Shinkansen to Osaka. Kuromon Market for lunch, Osaka Castle, then evening in Dotonbori, Namba (Yasaka Jinja), and Shinsekai. (Dinner: Ayam-Ya Halal Ramen).

​Day 7 (Jul 14): USJ. Full day at Universal Studios

​Day 8 (Jul 15): Kyoto. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji, Otagi Nenbutsuji. Kinkaku-ji in the afternoon. Evening: Sannenzaka/Ninenzaka and Gion tea ceremony.

​Day 9 (Jul 16): Nara & Mitama Matsuri.

Fushimi Inari (just the bottom gates/Vermillion Cafe), then Nara Park & Todai-ji. Taking the Aoniyoshi Train back.Pick up luggage, Shinkansen back to Tokyo, drop bags, and head straight to Kudanshita for the Mitama Matsuri (30,000 yellow lanterns).

​Day 10 (Jul 17): Departure. Skytree, Solamachi last-minute shopping. Head to HND at 17:30 for a night flight.

​Questions:

​Is swapping the cities to do Kanto first worth it to catch Kamakura Fireworks and Harumi Bon Odori?

Hello,

My partner and I have three full days to visit Kyoto (plus a fourth for Nara) in September. What do you think of my itinerary for the temples and monuments, please? I’ve picked out many places with lovely green moss and beautiful natural surroundings. Are there any that overlap and we can skip, or others that are absolute must-sees (I haven’t included the crowded and isolated Kinkaku-ji, which doesn’t really appeal to me)? I’ve put in brackets the ones I’m less interested in, or for which I don’t think we’ll have time.

We’re keen walkers and we love art (meaning we don’t get bored as quickly as the average person). And we’ll be able to afford taxis between sites that are further apart.

Thank you very much!

Day 1

(Tenryu-ji)

Ōkōchi Sansō

Giō-ji

Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple

Otagi Nenbutsuji

Daikaku-ji

taxi

(Tōfuku-ji)

Fushimi Inari-taisha in the end of the afternoon

Day 2

Nijō-jō

taxi

Kurama-dera / Kifune

(Rurikōin Temple / Renge-ji Temple)

(Yasaka-jinja 24/24)

Day 3

Kiyomizu-dera (and before it's open we'll visit the northern streets)

Kōdai-ji (it opens only at 9, do you know what we could do meanwhile?)

Chionin Temple

Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji

Hōnenin Temple

Ginkaku-ji

accommodation: kita-ueno or asakusa

people: fit seniors, just slower pace. perfectly fine to split the group if seniors want to rest (mostly late nights)

notes: leaning towards asakusa to do last minute shopping in nakamise/ameyoko/kappabashi before going to the airport (seems like there's more to do in asakusa than in kita-ueno). overthinking!

everything is flexible except for mayo terrace as i've already reserved it.

Day 1 (Monday) - shibuya/shinjuku

• arrive at tokyo station 8:30 am (coin lockers for luggages)
• junjo ginza
• akihabara
• daikanyama tamburins (for the dachshund only)
• meiji shrine
• harajuku
• shibuya sky (sunset)
• roppongi/akabanebashi exit for tokyo tower shoot
• solamachi for dinner and skytree shoot

Day 2 - i'm having trouble with this day bc of the fixed kewpie museum schedule

• tsukiji market
• teamlab borderless or planets (borderless more efficient location to mayo terrace)
• mayo terrace - already reserved 3:30pm

Day 3

• fuji day!
• (can we fit in something here for late night? senso-ji?)

Day 4 (Thursday)

• nakamise
• kappabashi
• ameyoko
• en route to NRT airport by 2/3 pm [flight is at 7pm]

Hello!

This was originally posted in the Hokkaido subreddit, but I wanted to post here to see if anyone has additional comments/suggestions.

I'm headed to Hokkaido at the end of July and wanted to request feedback on my itinerary and ask some questions re: traffic and recommended duration of visit at two attractions. Since I'm going so late in July, I'm heading to Nakafurano first to see if I'm able to catch most of the lavender in its bloom. I'm fully prepared if majority have already been harvested by then; if so, I will be nixing the other lavender fields. Could you please take a look at the below and advise? Thank you so much!

Arrival

• Stay the night in Asakusa^(1)

DAY ONE - 7/26 (SUN)

• Flight to Asahikawa (AKJ); land at 9 AM and pick up rental car
• Farm Tomita/Hokuseiyama Lavendar Fields^(2)
• Patchwork Road
• Spend night in Asahikawa

DAY TWO 

• Asahidake Ropeway^(3)
• Shikisai-no-Oka
• Aoiike/Shirahige Falls^(4)
• Hinode Park (maybe)

DAY THREE 

• Drive from Asahikawa to Sunflower Village
• Furano for its festival and spend night there

DAY FOUR

• Head to Lake Shikotsu for canoeing^(5)
• Spend night at Lake Toya

DAY FIVE

• Drive to Noboribetsu Jigokudani^(6)
• Drive to Otaru
• Visit shopping street on Sakaimachi

DAY SIX 

• Sankaku
• Cape Kamui
• Fruit picking in Yoichi
• Spend early afternoon in Otaru - visit shops on Sakaimachi that I didn't have time to the day before
• Drive to and arrive in Sapporo by 8 PM to return rental car

DAY SEVEN (SAT)

• Hill of the Buddha
• Beer Festival^(7)

DAY EIGHT 

• Nijo Market
• TV Tower
• Beer Museum
• Flight to Hakodate

DAY NINE 

• Ekini Market
• Hachiman-Zaka Slope
• Tachimachi
• Red Brick Warehouse

DAY TEN 

• Early morning train to Aomori
• Nebuta Festival
• Return in late evening to Hakodate^(8)

DAY ELEVEN

• Early morning train to Aomori - pick up rental car
• Takayama Shrine
• Inakadate
• Return car to Aomori Airport and fly to Tokyo

1. If you've had experience going to/seeing the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival, could you please let me know of your experience? If you didn't have a reserved viewing spot (designated viewing area/restaurant/hotel), were you able to get a decent view of the fireworks? My hotel is a ~5 minute walk from Asakusa Station, for reference, and I would arrive at ~5 PM to check in. At this point, with the crowds, would I even be able to get close enough to the river or make it to some of the recommended parks to see the show?
2. I'm most likely getting to Farm Tomita a little past noon. Google summary states that in late July on the weekends, it can take as long as 1.5 hrs to drive the last 2 km to Farm Tomita. Has this been your experience? I just wanted a frame of reference to know whether the rest of my plans for the day is realistic. I also see that Hokuseiyama is adjacent to Farm Tomita. I'm assuming that the proper thing to do is exit the Farm Tomita parking lot and re-park at Hokuseiyama?
3. If I am not planning on hiking Asahidake, would two hours be sufficient to see the main sights at the top of the ropeway?
4. Should I just add an extra hour to all of the current estimated travel times to tourist attractions in the area?
5. I had wanted to go kayaking at Lake Shikotsu, but based off my research, there are no current affordable options unless I am of a certain proficiency in Japanese. Do you know if otherwise?
6. For Jigokudani Valley itself, would two hours be enough to see its main sights?
7. I think I read somewhere that you will need to reserve spots for the Sapporo Beer Festival; is this correct?
8. Since the Nebuta Festival is going on at this time, should I book my Shinkansen tickets now?

An additional question, please:

• For people who have Capital One, since its transition to Discover, did you experience any issues in cash withdrawals at ATMs?

I generally don't experience jetlag, so it's not a concern for me. On my last trip to Japan, I had a 10.5 hr layover in Taipei, and I explored Taipei and a bit of Tokyo when I landed. I was totally fine on that day and the day after. I come from a relatively hot and humid area (though not as much as Tokyo! something like 70-90% humidity vs its 80-high 90's), and it doesn't seem like I will be spending large swathes of time outside; I don't expect to be too badly affected.

I really appreciate any comments or suggestions you may have!

I'm an art and architecture enthusiast, and I'm looking forward to visiting museums in Tokyo. I have dedicated one day of my itinerary on visiting some sites in Minato area.

My original itinerary had several museums to visit but I narrowed it down to a smaller list with locations in close proximity to each other so I could cover them with ease while seeing the works of my favorite architects Tadao Ando and Kengo Kuma.

Let me know if it's realistic to visit all these places at a relaxed pace within the time I've planned.

8:00 am Nogi shrine

9:00 am Hinokicho Park

10:00 am 21_21 Design Sight

11:00 am National Art Center (I might replace this with Mori Art museum, I'm torn in choosing between the two, I would appreciate any advice)

1:00 pm Lunch

2:30 pm Nezu Museum

5:00 pm Team Labs Borderless

7:00 pm  Dinner

(Take a look from outside at Suntory Museum of Art, Sunny Hills Minami Aoyama and Azabudai Hills passing on the way since I admire the architecture)

If the itinerary seems too packed, I can remove a museum or two or reschedule my Team Labs visit to another day.

​Hi everyone! Planning a 30-night solo/group trip to Japan from July 28th to August 27th. I know August is notoriously hot and humid, and we will be hit by the Obon festival peak in Kyoto. I tried to design the itinerary to minimize annoying hotel changes and leave the nature and relaxation part for the very end.

​I will be luggage-forwarding my big suitcase from Kyoto straight to Tokyo on Aug 19th, traveling through Hiroshima and the Alps with just a backpack

​Here is the day-by-day breakdown. Any feedback on pacing, logistics, or realism would be highly appreciated!

​TOKYO (July 28 – Aug 11) – Class base & City exploration

​Jul 28: Arrive at Haneda, check-in, soft night in Shinjuku (Kabukicho).

​Jul 29: Asakusa (Senso-ji early) + Ueno + Akihabara arcade night.

​Jul 30: Meiji Jingu + Harajuku + Shibuya Sky (sunset slot).

​Jul 31: Tsukiji Outer Market + Ginza + Golden Gai bar hopping.

​Aug 1: Odaiba + teamLab Planets (afternoon).

​Aug 2: Day-trip to Kamakura and Enoshima (sunset over the sea).

​Aug 3-4: Overnight trip to Nikko (UNESCO temples & nature) + return to Tokyo for Shimokitazawa and Nakano Broadway.

​Aug 5: Day-trip to Kawaguchiko (Fuji viewing, weather permitting).

​Aug 6: Rest / Laundry / Reset day.

​Aug 7–11: Language classes in the morning + themed nights (Ikebukuro, Omoide Yokocho, Shibuya social night).

​KYOTO & KANSAI (Aug 12 – 18) – Peak Obon Week

​Aug 12: Shinkansen to Kyoto (booking 30 days ahead via SmartEX) + Nishiki Market and Gion evening.

​Aug 13: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest (very early at 7:30 AM) + Monkey Park.

​Aug 14: Kinkaku-ji + Ryoan-ji.

​Aug 15: Kiyomizu-dera + Higashiyama historic streets walking tour.

​Aug 16: Fushimi Inari at dawn + Gozan no Okuribi Festival in the evening (mountain bonfires).

​Aug 17: Day-trip to Nara (Deer park + Todai-ji).

​Aug 18: Day-trip to Osaka (Shinsekai + Dotonbori food tour & nightlife).

​HIROSHIMA & JAPAN ALPS (Aug 19 – 25) – Backpack only

​Aug 19: Shinkansen to Hiroshima. Peace Memorial Park & Museum. Night in Hiroshima.

​Aug 20: Ferry to Miyajima. Mt. Misen (ropeway + hike) & Itsukushima Shrine. Overnight in a Ryokan on the island.

​Aug 21-22: Travel to Kanazawa. Nagamachi Samurai district, Kenroku-en Garden, Higashi Chaya.

​Aug 23: Nohi Bus to Shirakawa-go (brief stop) -> Nohi Bus to Takayama (Old Town & Hida beef dinner).

​Aug 24: Bus to Okuhida Onsen Valley. Onsen Ryokan experience with Kaiseki dinner.

​Aug 25: Morning bus to Kamikochi (3-hour light trek) -> Bus to Matsumoto -> JR Azusa Limited Express back to Tokyo Shinjuku.

​TOKYO FINALE & DEPARTURE (Aug 25 – 27)

​Aug 25: Arrive in Tokyo, pick up forwarded luggage at the hotel.

​Aug 26: Last day for hardcore souvenir shopping (leaving luggage at hotel front desk). Final dinner, then head to Haneda Airport before 11:30 PM (before trains stop).

​Aug 27: Flight back home at 04:45 AM.

​Specific Questions:

​Kyoto during Obon (Aug 13-16): I know it’s going to be packed. Aside from hitting Fushimi Inari and Arashiyama at dawn, any specific tips to survive the crowds and the heat during these festive days?

​Alps Logistics (Kanazawa -> Takayama -> Kamikochi): Does the Nohi Bus sequence look smooth? I will book the highway buses exactly 1 month in advance

​Haneda 4:45 AM Flight: Since trains stop around midnight, my plan is to arrive at Haneda around 11:30 PM on the 26th and camp out for 4 hours until check-in. Is Haneda comfortable enough for this, or should I book a cheap airport hotel?

​Thank you so much for your help!

Hi everyone! I am planning an 11-day trip to Japan this July. This is my first time, and I've done a lot of research regarding train lines and specific spots. Since I strictly eat Halal, I have also pre-planned some food spots.

I would love to get your feedback on the feasibility of this itinerary, especially the Kansai leg, which feels a bit packed.

Trip Overview & Accommodation Areas

• Tokyo (Arrival): 1 Night in East Tokyo (Kameido area)
• Osaka: 4 Nights in Central Osaka (Kitahama area)
• Tokyo (Return): 4 Nights in Asakusa area

Itinerary

Day 1: Departure

• Flight to Japan.

Day 2: Arrival & Tokyo Warm-up

• Afternoon: Arrive at Haneda Airport (HND). Head to the hotel in the Kameido area and check in.
• Evening: Rest. If energy permits, visit Kameido Tenjin Shrine or check out Tokyo Skytree from the outside.
• Food: Getting snacks from convenience stores (combini) or finding local Halal-friendly spots nearby.

Day 3: Travel to Osaka & Dotonbori

• Early Morning: Check-out. Take the local lines to the Shinkansen and head to Osaka.
• Afternoon: Check-in at the Osaka hotel.
• Late Afternoon/Evening: Visit Osaka Castle, then head to Dotonbori. Explore Namba, Hozenji Yokocho, Yasaka Jinja (Lion Head), Shinsekai (Tsutenkaku Tower/Billiken statues), and Kuromon Market if time permits.
• Food: Planning to eat Halal Ramen at Ayam-Ya Dotonbori or Halal Wagyu.

Day 4: Universal Studios Japan

• Spend the whole day at Universal Studios Japan (USJ). Main goal is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World.

Day 5: Kyoto Day Trip (West & North)

• Morning: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Tenryu-ji Temple Gardens. Ride the Sagano Romantic Train
• Afternoon: Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion).
• Evening: Head to Gion for an evening walk.
• Food: Looking for A5 Halal Wagyu in Kyoto/Osaka.

Day 6: Fushimi Inari, Nara & East Kyoto

• Early Morning: Fushimi Inari Taisha (hoping to arrive by 7:00 AM to beat the crowds and heat).
• Late Morning/Afternoon: Head to Nara Park to see the deer and Todai-ji Temple (Great Buddha).
• Late Afternoon: Head back to Kyoto to see Kiyomizu-dera, Sannenzaka, and Ninenzaka.

Day 7: Return to Tokyo & Asakusa

• Morning: Catch morning views of Dotonbori/Shinsekai if missed on Day 3. Shinkansen back to Tokyo.
• Afternoon: Check-in at the Asakusa hotel.
• Evening: Visit Asakusa Shrine / Senso-ji Temple and Tokyo Skytree / Solamachi Mall.

Day 8: Palaces, TeamLab & Odaiba

• Morning: Imperial Palace, Hie Shrine, and Zojoji Temple.
• Mid-day: Shopping in Ginza.
• Afternoon: teamLab Planets in Toyosu.
• Evening: Odaiba (Gundam Statue, Liberty Statue, Rainbow Bridge view).

Day 9: Meiji Jingu, Shibuya & Shinjuku

• Morning: Yoyogi Park & Meiji Jingu Shrine, followed by Harajuku (Takeshita Street).
• Afternoon: Shibuya Crossing. (If Shibuya Sky is booked out, planning to watch from Magnet 109 or Starbucks). Walk through Daikanyama (Kyu Asakura House) and a coffee break at Nakameguro (Meguro River).
• Evening: Shinjuku (3D Cat Billboard, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for sunset views).

Day 10: Anime, Thrifting & Tokyo Tower

• Morning: Ueno Park, then walk down to Akihabara for anime/gaming shopping.
• Afternoon: Travel to Shimokitazawa for vintage/second-hand clothing thrift shopping.
• Evening: Catch the night lights at Tokyo Tower.

Day 11: Final Shopping & Departure

• Morning/Afternoon: Last-minute souvenir shopping around Asakusa or Ginza.
• Late Afternoon: Head to Haneda Airport.
• Evening: Flight back home.
• Questions for the Community:
• Buying a Global Nintendo Switch 2: I am planning to buy the multi-language/global version of the Nintendo Switch 2 while in Japan. I am aware of the strict anti-scalper restrictions right now (e.g., the global version rarely being sold in physical electronics stores, requiring a Japanese credit card for online purchase, and the 50-hour playtime requirement(I have this one :)) on a JP account). Has any short-term tourist successfully managed to buy the global version recently? Are there any specific workarounds, second-hand options, or physical stores where tourists can actually get one?
• Food: If you know any must-try Halal certified or Muslim-friendly spots in Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto (especially for sushi or yakiniku), please let me know!
• Shopping & Thrifting/Anime Recommendations: I’ve allocated time for Shimokitazawa (vintage/second-hand clothes) and Akihabara (anime/gaming). Are there any specific multi-story shops, hidden alleys, or alternative neighborhoods (like Koenji for thrifting or Nakano Broadway for retro anime gear) you’d highly recommend? Also, any general tips for smooth tax-free shopping would be greatly appreciated!

Hey everyone, I uploaded my itinerary for. going to Japan this august for two weeks and got a lot of feedback. Safe to say I was doing too much. Taking all feedback on board, I have edited my itinerary and would be keen to hear peoples’ thoughts!

Anything people suggest skipping, adding in or anything else is much appreciated.

Day 1 – Arrive in Osaka (Namba)

• Land in Osaka around 5:30pm
• Head to hotel (Namba)
• Dinner and an easy night (perhaps check out Amerikamura, Dotonbori or Ebisubashi Bridge)

Day 2 – Exploring Osaka

• Osaka Castle for a few hours
• Den Den Town
• Walk to Shinsekai and visit Tsūtenkaku Tower
• Dinner and explore Dotonbori

Day 3 – Hiroshima & Miyajima

• Explore Miyajima Island (visit Itsukushima Shrine / Omotesando shopping street). Possibly Ropeway if I stay for another day / timing permits.
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum
• If I stay an extra day check out: Hiroshima Castle and Mitaki Temple

Day 4 – Kyoto (overnight stay)

• Fushimi Inari Taisha
• Kiyomizu-dera (Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka)
• Yasaka Kōshin-dō and Kōdai-ji
• Lunch
• Kyoto watch shopping and Nishiki Market
• Explore Gion
• Dinner and stay overnight

Day 5 – Kyoto

• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (possibly skip given feedback)
• Ōkōchi Sansō Garden
• Explore Arashiyama and Togetsukyō Bridge
• Mochi Mochi
• Explore Kyoto station

Day 6 – Universal Studios Japan / extra day in Kyoto

Planning to spend the whole day here, but happy to hear people's thoughts on whether I should swap this for Nara instead.

If staying an extra day in Kyoto visit Saihō-ji (Kokedera)

Day 7 – Final day in Osaka

• Sumiyoshi Taisha
• Round1 Stadium and Namba Parks
• Hōzenji Yokochō and Amerikamura
• Umeda Sky Building before dinner
• Dinner in the evening

Day 8 – Osaka to Tokyo (Ueno)

• Arrive around lunchtime
• Explore Ueno (Atre Ueno, Ueno Marui and shopping arcades)
• Ueno Park
• Dinner and explore Ameyoko

Day 9 – Asakusa & Akihabara

• Sensō-ji
• kihabara (Super Potato, GiGO, Radio Kaikan, etc.)
• Tokyo Character Street
• Dinner

Day 10 – Imperial Palace, Ginza & teamLab

• Imperial Palace Gardens
• Ginza (just exploring)
• TeamLab (possibly skip)
• Dinner

Day 11 – Hakone or Mount Fuji?

This is the day I'm least sure about.

I'm considering either:

• A day around Mount Fuji, or
• Hakone (Owakudani, Lake Ashi cruise and Hakone Shrine). If Hakone i would do the following: Hakone Ropeway, Owkudani, Lake Ashi Cruise and Hakone Shrine

Day 12 – Harajuku & Shibuya

• Meiji Shrine
• Harajuku
• Indoor shopping and coffee (including Shibuya PARCO)
• Miyashita Park
• Shibuya Crossing
• Shibuya Sky
• Dinner in Shibuya

Day 13 – Shinjuku, Takadanobaba & Ikebukuro

• Explore Shinjuku (Kabukichō, Godzilla Head, Omoide Yokochō, Golden Gai, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and possibly Nakano Broadway)
• JINS Glasses and Daruma Jeans
• Takadanobaba
• Ikebukuro
• Car meet/show in the evening

Day 14 – Final day in Tokyo

• Ring-making experience
• Kimono tea ceremony (Maikoya)
• Final shopping
• Head back to the hotel before going to the airport

My wife and I often try to incorporate a National Park with a city stay on our travels in the US, so we thought we'd try something similar in Japan. I have seen only a few posts on Kamikochi and hut hiking, so I wanted to share our experience in case it helps someone else with similar aspirations. Due to our hike being early in the season (late June) and the amount of snow this year, we chose to hike to Karasawa Cirque from Kamikochi and stay at Karasawa Hutte vs attempting any peaks.

Day 0: Tokyo to Matsumoto

We took the Shinjuku Sta to Matsumoto Sta via the 2.5hr Limited Express on the Chuo Line. The JR office kindly helped us book this, but if you know what you're doing I'm sure the automated kiosks are faster. We wanted to be in Matsumoto the day before our hike in order to take the early bus to Kamikochi.

We were briefly rewarded with a clear view of Mt. Fuji from the left side of the train (ultimately, our only view of Mt. Fuji on this trip). Arriving in Matsumoto by 1830 gave us the opportunity to walk around the perimeter of Matsumoto Castle and have a relaxed dinner at an izakaya near our hotel, Toyoko Inn. We grabbed some breakfast and snacks from Family Mart as we'd be departing the hotel prior to breakfast.

Day 1: Matsumoto to Kamikochi to Karasawa

We rose early to be at the bus depot by 0515 and take the 0530 Alpico bus arriving in Kamikochi at 0705. You can book this bus starting one month prior to travel. Use the same service to book a return bus, also one month prior. It was a pleasant drive through the mountains to Kamikochi arriving on time, and there were signs directing us to the luggage check where we left our suitcases and continued with just our backpacks. We walked 5-10 minutes to Kappa Bridge, which I suppose could be considered the true start of the hike. It was virtually empty at this time of morning, and that would not be the case when we returned the next day.

From Kappa Bridge to Karasawa is ~15-16 km depending on who you ask and includes 800m of elevation change. On paper, not too bad - in practice, the bulk of the elevation comes at the end of the hike. The trail starts as a graded path/gravel road along the Azusa River and is very pleasant hiking. There was some construction being done on the river channel, but it didn't detract much from our hike. We passed some monkeys, and made use of the intermediate huts for restrooms and snack breaks, as well as fresh water - note that the huts are cash only. The weather window was fantastic with partly cloudy skies and no rain.

At Yokoo Hut we crossed the suspension bridge over the Azusa and the trail become more rocky and a bit more steep, but quite manageable. That lasted until the next suspension bridge over the creek (Yokoo?) - at that point the trail heads straight up the mountain with few respites and will test your physical shape. The last 1km or so was still a snowfield - ideally, you should have microspikes, but we did not and made it fine to Kurasawa Hutte as the wind picked up and the temperature began to drop. The hike took us 6 hours, arriving by 1330 - most huts will want you checked in by 1500-1600, so we had a good margin.

We typically camp and this was our first experience with a hut. Online booking was a bit tricky for us, so we used a service to book the hut for us, also one month before arrival which went smoothly. At the hut we were given a short orientation and shown to our "room" which was a cozy stall with futons and a curtain. We had a few draft beers(!) and chips in the dining room before unpacking and enjoying the views of the cirque from the deck. We then returned to the dining room for dinner (dinner and breakfast were included in the price). Dinner was a delicious combination of local ingredients with a bowl of rice, and we were treated to the sight of two black bears on the shoulder of a mountain visible from the dining room windows. Exhausted from the hike, we turned in early for shuteye.

Day 2: Karasawa to Kamikochi

Rising early for breakfast, we dawdled a bit at the hut waiting for the sun to soften the snow a bit and then headed back down to Kamikochi without incident. The two bears were still foraging on the distant mountainside. We had a wonderful affogato at one of the huts and saw more monkeys. Back at Kappa Bridge we had a bowl of noodles, checked out the visitor center, collected our suitcases, and walked over to the Kamikochi Onsen Hotel for the night.

Public baths aren't well known in the US, so we were excited for this experience. You might say a few in our group were trepidatious. At check in, we were given yukatas and shown to our Japanese style room. Our rooms did not have showers, which we needed, so we immediately hit the showers and hot bath downstairs - this was a wonderful experience that everyone became addicted to for the rest of the trip. I wish it was a thing in the US. The outdoor hot bath was especially relaxing, certainly after our ~30km roundtrip hike.

Dinner in the dining room was an amazing ~15 course meal of local ingredients. The experience of dining in our yukatas was completely new to us, but very comfortable. Upon returning to our rooms, the staff had laid out our futons for us and we immediately crashed for the night.

Day 3: Kamikochi to Matsumoto to Kyoto

The next morning we rose for the buffet style breakfast (fantastic), took one last bath, and then headed for the bus depot. The staff at the hotel forwarded our luggage for us, though it's a relatively short walk. We took the Alpico bus back, though for some reason it only goes to Shinshimashima Sta instead of all the way back to Matsumoto, but the bus ticket allowed us to transfer to a train at Shinshimashima back to Matsumoto Sta. Somehow, everything just works in Japan.

Once back at Matsumoto Sta, and still unsure of our train booking skills, we utilized the kind staff at the JR office once again to arrange travel to Kyoto via express train + shinkansen.

Final thoughts: I'm so glad we decided to book this hike/Kamikochi stay in the middle of our Tokyo-Kyoto itinerary. It presented us with a completely different and nature-based side of Japan that we otherwise would have missed, as well as allowing us a few days to hike, glamp, and experience onsen culture. I can highly recommend it as part of a Japan trip, and am happy to answer any questions I didn't address.