From US / first time in Japan / going after Silver Week in September / we may not be able to make another trip of this expense for some time. As a family unit, wondering streets / enjoying the moment is more important than seeing a monument / hitting a checklist.
Plan A: Spend time in Tokyo, with a day trip to Kamakura and/or Nikko.
Plan B: Split time between Tokyo and Kyoto.
I realize what a special place Kyoto is and the (nearly) universal love people have for it. It looks spectacular. However, the travel between cities / transition between hotels / the return tip to Haneda means the trip becomes more dictated by time and schedule.
If Kyoto is truly is a place one should experience (especially as we may not be able to visit Japan again), I’d plan accordingly. I am leaning Plan A because that’s how we typically roll, but I have an open mind. If any seasoned travelers with a similar mindset care to share their thoughts, I would certainly appreciate the guidance.
Thx fellow travelers.
by JiveTalkingRobot