Hi all, I wanted to see if I can get some insight on my proposed itinerary for my very quick trip for my first time to Japan! I am visiting family in South Korea (from US) and decided to add on a few days in Japan solo.
I know this simply is not enough time, but I can’t extend my trip. I would love insight on if what I’m proposing is possible or if there’s anything you’d recommend that I’m missing. I’m comfortable moving fast, having very busy and long days, and I know that if I want to see more I may not be able to see things to the depth they really deserve but sometimes that has to be sacrificed. I would love to come back some day, but I don’t know if that will happen so I want to experience as much as possible. I am decently capable with transit & getting around by myself, but have never been to Asia so I’m sure there will be a learning curve. I’m considering booking a local food tour or something along those lines as well, maybe to have a local guide me through a market and make recommendations.
I am going in the spring and hoping to see cherry blossoms. Other interests: food, cafes, cultural sites, beauty, fashion, unique experiences, views/outdoors. Most of what I have listen to do each day is flexible, mostly looking for insight on if I should stay in Hakone overnight and cut into my time in Tokyo, or if a day stop is possible if I don’t need to do the full loop.
Thursday –
* Land at KIX around 7:30 PM
* Train to Kyoto
* check into hostel, walk around, nightlife
Friday –
* wake up earlyyyy – Path of Philosophy
* Kyoto Imperial Palace Park
* explore Gion / temples and shrines
* Nishiki Market
Saturday –
* wake up earlyyyy and go to Fushimi Inari Taisha
* train from Kyoto to Hakone
* quick stop/day trip in Hakone
* primary interests:
* volcanic egg
* Mt Fuji view
* Onsen
* Late train from Hakone to Tokyo
* Arrive late, check into hotel, walk around, etc.
Sunday –
* Tsukiji Outer Market
* Imperial Palace
* Chidorigafuchi
* explore Akihabara
* explore Ginza
Monday –
* Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
* Shibuya Crossing
* Omotesando Avenue
* Meiji Shrine
* Find affordable omakase
Tuesday –
* Senso-ji Temple
* explore Akihabara
* Flight out of NRT around 8:00 PM
Additionally, anything that I definitely need to book/reserve ahead of time, I’d love advice on as well. I am comfortable making plans as I go or spur of the moment, but if there’s anything that HAS to be reserved ahead of time I don’t want to miss my opportunity. I am still also trying to figure out how to book trains from Kyoto to Hakone to Tokyo, so any insight there is helpful too!
Thanks for your input, I really appreciate it!
by Chance_Quarter_4213