Hey everyone, I'm going to Japan for the first time this December! It's also my first time doing any sort of solo tripping domestically or internationally. I've heard it's pretty safe and, for the most part, easy to navigate (other than metros in Tokyo). I am still a bit nervous, however, because this is my first time going to a country completely on my own. I have a brief outline that I created and wanted to see if y'all had any recs or anything that could help me! Also, to preface, 2 nights in each city is enough for me-I am young and have energy! (Yes, I am aware of jet lag, I go to Taiwan every other year) I know a lot of people say don't do that, but I did it in Greece this past summer, and it was fine.
Tokyo (Dec 17 – 19)
- with day trip to Mount Fuji on Dec 18
Yokohama (December 19-21)
Kyoto (December 21-23)
- with day trip to Osaka on Dec 22
Okinawa OR Nagano (Decemer 23-25)
Tokyo (Decemeber 25-26)
Now, I know Yokohama is super close to Tokyo.. should I even do 2 nights for that or just do 1 night there and two nights in Tokyo on the last day because when my plane lands on Dec 17, I would only have the night (the plane lands at 6pm ish, and I know the sun sets at like 4pm) My flight out is also Dec 26 8am so I don't have that day either.
Also, for Okinawa or Nagano: Okinawa, I know you have to fly out, but I can't get a reliable price on train tickets from Kyoto to Nagano and then to Tokyo. Some say $280 for the whole trip, and it'll take like 4 hours, and at that point, it's more expensive and probably longer than a flight to Okinawa. But other sites say its like $50. Would love to gain some insight on this! Which is more realistic?
Also, what are some must-do things in Osaka, Kyoto, and Yokohama? I have Tokyo mostly planned, and am still deciding between Nagano and Okinawa (advice greatly appreciated!)
Last but not least, does anyone know any travel company that will just arrange hotels and transportation for me? And maybe some small excursions. I did something similar in Greece, but when I looked up travel companies in Japan.. for $1000 USD, they can only do 3 airport transfers-which I think is outrageous! In Greece, it was $1900 USD for the whole trip planned, and we stayed in really nice hotels and that included flights between islands and ferries. Maybe it's a cultural thing, but everything I see online is telling me I need a budget of at least $3000 USD, but that's not in my budget. I really just need to get from point A to point B without stressing and have hotels picked out so I don't have to worry about checking in and out. But if it's $3000, I guess I'll just risk missing a $80 train ride.
I will also be traveling with a large check-in suitcase, a carry-on bag, and a personal bag, so any advice on that would be GREATLY appreciated. Especially with trains/hotels (check in is at 4pm, can I drop off before then to chill in the lobby?)
Thank you guys, seriously, I know this was an essay, but I really do appreciate any advice or tips!
by meese4