Hi guys!
In a sudden move I made a decision to visit Japan for the first time in my life. I am 34 years old and grew up with lots of videogames and anime/mangas so this is a childhood dream come true 🥹
I’m aware about temperatures in August, but this is the only chance for me so better to have a sweaty trip then not at all, right?!
Booked my flight yesterday and I’m now slowly entering the rabbit hole of “planning a first trip to Japan”…
The consensus seems to be: Tokyo – Kyoto- Osaka – Hiroshima
Now as the majority visits during spring or autumn, this route may be the best. But I think in August it’s a great opportunity to experience the Nepura matsuri festivals in Aomori and Hirosaki and even get a good look how the general Northern region feels like.
With this in mind I have made a rough itinerary and even managed to book 2 nights stay in Hirosaki (Aomori and everything in that region is fulllly booked out on the festival days).
This would be my current plan:
7/28 – 7/31 Tokyo
7/31 – 8/2 Hirosaki -> watch Hirosaki parade on 1st August and Aomori parade on 2nd then take the last train in the evening to Hakodate
8/2 – 8/3 Hakodate
8/3 – 8/7 Sapporo -> take a flight to Osaka
8/7 – 8/11 Osaka
8/11 – 8/14 Kyoto
8/14 – 8/18 Tokyo -> flight back home
For Tokyo I took the APA hotel right next to Ueno station. I think this is strategically the best place close to Yamanote line and able to move efficiently through Tokyo.
Hirosaki seems to be a very nice spot to see a different side of Japan away from the big cities.
Is Sapporo a good base to stay in the North? I assume the city itself already offers a lot, but taking daytrips from there could be also nice…
What do you think about this?
Is it too much travelling inbetween the places?
Is it too risky to see Aomori parade and then catch the last train to Hakodate?
Is it good to also tackle the hike on Mt. Fuji, as it’s another great opportunity during summer time?
Many thanks in advance for all your tips and recommendations. I really appreciate your help 🙏
by Dry_Win_454