7th time traveler to Japan, looking for a bit of advice with the hopes that the country re-opens some time later this year. My tentative travel dates are (roughly) December 24th – January 8th.
Some quick notes:
* I’ve been to “the golden route” Tokyo/Kyoto/Osaka, Hokkaido, Kyushu, Hiroshima/Yamaguchi. I don’t necessarily mind spending some time in these areas, but would love to explore somewhere new given it’ll be my first time back in the country in 3+ years.
* I’m looking for: hiking/nature walks, cultural experiences, regional food, and want to optimize for things “in season” – and avoid “off season” e.g., Sapporo during shoulder season (March)
Given this, I’m toying with two options:
* Itinerary 1: Trip centered around Shikoku. Sample itinerary would include: Onomichi -> Imabari (via Shimanami Kaido), Matsuyama, Takematsu, Naoshima/Teshima, Iya Valley.
* Itinerary 2: Trip centered around Tohoku. Sample itinerary would include: Shirakawa-go, Jigokudani, Ginzan Onsen.
Questions:
1. I’d love some input on which of these feels more “right” for the season. Especially considering this trip will fall over New Years and things do shut down, I’d like to avoid a situation where I get stuck with nothing to do.
2. I’d also love some of your favorite spots that I’ve missed in either Shikoku or Tohoku that are must sees during this time frame (I’ll figure out the transport, etc.).
Thanks so much!
1 comment
To be honest: Neither sounds particularly appealing (around New Year’s).
Itinerary 1: Shimanami Kaido in late December/early January does not sound very appealing, even if you can get away with eat temperature-wise, crosswind will make it definitely unpleasant and shorter daylight hours will make it a challenge to finish in a single day. Matsuyama, Takaematsu and Art Islands are doable all year round, also ferries can be somewhat rough. Oku Iya’s sights are in addition closed during the winter.
Itinerary 2: Considering that Shirakawa-go and Jigokudani are nowhere near Tohoku – it’s hard to judge whether Japanese Alps or Tohoku is the actual focus. Note that all the problems with attractions, or restaurants closing would be magnified on such on a trip, especially outside Sendai. Also, it’s worth noting that any popular onsen or skiing destination will be crowded.
> hiking/nature walks
Closed for the winter for the most part, at least outside popular hiking routes on the edge of major cities.