So I (36m) am a somewhat experienced international traveler, but never to Asia.
My first choice is Japan, partially because we had an exchange student come live with us when I was a kid who was from Japan. Our family has stayed in touch with her over all these years and now she is living in Hiratsuka with her family. She has been trying to get me to come visit forever and now I am starting to formally plan the trip, finally.
Important to note I speak no Japanese aside from basics (“hello, thank you, goodbye”) but my friend speaks pretty good English and is obviously fluent in Japanese.
There’s nothing too firm on my agenda except to eat as much great food as I can, explore, and see some cool spots (ideally places that are purely “Japanese” and not too touristy, I also like nature and the zen vibe)— I want a very authentic experience but also to see some beautiful places. I don’t want to feel stressed and too bogged down by a busy schedule.
My rough thought is 10-14 days in total: Tokyo —> Hiratsuka (to see my friend and her family) —> Kyoto and then maybe day trip(s) to Osaka—> Tokyo (?) or fly back to the states from Kyoto?
Is this too much? How much time should
I allocate to each city?
Also worth mentioning I have a TON of Hyatt points so any recommendations for great Hyatts in Tokyo/Kyoto would be appreciated.
What time of year is best? I’m thinking it could be as soon as this fall, or perhaps next Spring.
Anyone have experience in Hiratsuka? She also works in Yokohama so maybe we can see both? Worthwhile?
I know this is a pretty vague post, but really just trying to get the basic framework laid down and logistics (trains, etc) and from there I can start looking at more details.
Thanks for the help and all tips/suggestions!
by Classy_Anarchy