Second trip to Japan – Is going to North Japan in Nov/Dec a bad idea?

Hey all,

This will be my second time in Japan, I did part of the golden route in 2022 and wanted to go up north this time. A friend is tagging along for his first trip to Japan, but doesn't mind following what I do. This is what I have planned out so far:

  • Day 1 – 21st Nov – Arrive in Tokyo

Staying in Shimbashi, chill around for the day, Asakusa maybe

  • Day 2 – 22nd Nov

Yoyogi park, Meiji Jingu, hanging around Shibuya

  • Day 3 – 23rd Nov

Toyosu fish market, Odaiba gundam

  • Day 4 – 24th Nov – Train to Sendai

Drop off baggages
Zuihoden, Jozenji, Gyutan dinner

  • Day 5 – 25th Nov

Yuriage morning market (taxi or train)
Day trip to Matsushima bay and boat tour
Maybe fit in cat island but doubt it

  • Day 6 – 26th Nov

Day trip to Geibikei Gorge

  • Day 7 – 27th Nov – Train to Aomori

Baggage in lockers
Aoiumi park + observation deck, A Factory, Aomori bay bridge
Taxi to Sukayu Onsen for check in and dinner at 5pm

  • Day 8 – 28th Nov

Aomori Nokkedon, day trip to Takayama Inari Shrine via taxi?
Not sure if Takayama Inari Shrine is worth it as not sure if there is much to see there

  • Day 9 – 29th Nov – Train to Sapporo

Odori park

  • Day 10 – 30th Nov

Day trip to Asahikawa, Asahikawa shrine and zoo

  • Day 11 – 1st Dec

Nijo market
Hokkaido shrine

  • Day 12 – 2nd Dec – Plane to Kyoto

Chill, some shrines

  • Day 13 – 3rd Dec

Nara park, Gion

  • Day 14 – 4th Dec

Free day, day trip to Osaka?

  • Day 15 – 5th Dec – Fly home

I've included Kyoto/Osaka in the last days as I thought it'd still be nice for my friend to see Kyoto since it's his first trip. I'm also worried I haven't filled up some days with enough activities to make the day worth it. Day 11 for example, so any recommendations would be appreciated!

by mixaoopla

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