Hello everyone, my wife and I are planning to go to Japan this Christmas for ten nights, and we would like to fly in and out of Nagoya. We would like to visit some towns/areas north of Nagoya, particularly Shirakawago. Now I understand from this subreddit that Shirakawago would be best experienced as a day trip or for a few hours, and I can imagine it would be quite touristy that time of year.
An itinerary we had in mind was starting in Nagoya for two nights, then going to Kanazawa for two nights. Then we would travel to Takayama, but stop for a few hours in Shirakawa-go on the way. After spending two nights in Takayama, we would stop by an onsen town for two nights on the way back to Nagoya, maybe Gero or something like that. Then we would spend our last two nights in Nagoya before flying out.
I know it would be easier to navigate if we rented a car, but I think we're leaning towards buses and trains mainly because I don't have much experience driving in snow. It seems doable that way, unless I'm mistaken?
So I would like to kindly ask for any comments or suggestions on that itinerary. Is it doable? Should we cut anything out or add anything else in? Would we be ok buying bus/train tickets when we're there or should be try to book them ahead of time? Finally, if anyone has some nice recommendations for accommodation in those places, they would be much appreciated (up to $150-$200/night would be ok I think). We would definitely look for a more private onsen experience.
Thank you very much for your time and help.
by dmolitious