So I dumped a list of places we (family of 3 with an 8 YO) want to visit into chatgpt, and had it figure out an itinerary. I've re-arranged some of the days to minimize back-to-back travelling days. I also plan to go to DisneySea for 2 days, which means removing a couple days of activities in Tokyo. I'm planning to axe Day 9. What other day should I remove? I'll obviously have to re-arrange the days in order to get two contiguous days in DisneySea, but that's easy to do later. Welcome any other feedback on places I could skip, or that are must experience things I missed, especially for Hokkaido. Thanks!
The main reason for going to Hokkaido at the end is due to health considerations- my spouse can't handle super hot weather.
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Explore Shinjuku: Familiarize yourself with the area and enjoy dinner at a local izakaya.
Day 2: Shibuya & Harajuku
- Shibuya Crossing: Experience the iconic scramble crossing.
- Shibuya Sky
- Takeshita Street: Shop at unique stores, including 6% Doki Doki and Kiddy Land.
- 2nd Street Shibuya
Day 3: Shinjuku
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: Free observation deck for Mt. Fuji views (on clear days).
- Fire Museum: Explore this unique museum.
- Toy Museum: A fun stop for all ages.
Day 4: Odaiba
- Fuji Observation Deck: Take in stunning views of Mt. Fuji.
- TeamLab Borderless: Immerse yourself in digital art.
- Shopping at DiverCity: Explore shops and grab dinner.
- Joypolis
Day 5: Asakusa & Sumida
- Tokyo Skytree & Mall: Visit the iconic tower and enjoy shopping.
- Sumida Aquarium: Explore the beautiful aquarium.
- Asakusa Underground Mall
Day 6: Ginza & Nihonbashi
- Ginza: Shop and explore this upscale district.
- Itoya Stationery: Visit the famous stationery store.
- Jimbo-cho Book Shopping: Discover rare and second-hand books.
- Choushiya Croquette Sandwich
- Ginza Choshoku Lab Buffet
- Buta Soba Tsukiya for クリア豚骨 (“Clear Tonkotsu”)
Day 7: Ueno & Yanaka
- Ueno Park: Stroll through the park and visit a museum (like Ueno Zoo or Tokyo National Museum).
- Nippori Shopping
- Yanaka: Enjoy the nostalgic streets and local shops.
Day 8: Akihabara & Ikebukuro
- Samurai Museum: Learn about Japan's samurai history.
- Kidzania Tokyo: Enjoy an educational experience for children.
- Akihabara: Explore anime and electronics shops.
Day 9: Cultural Experiences
- Dengama Ceramics: Try your hand at pottery or ceramics.
- Majimaya Baking: Participate in a baking class.
- Round1 Games: Have fun with games and activities.
Day 10: Travel to Nikko and Explore
- Morning:
- Depart from Tokyo: Take the Tobu Nikko Line from Asakusa Station to Tobu Nikko Station (about 2 hours).
- Late Morning:
- Check-In at Ryokan: Tattoo-Friendly Ryokan: Consider Nikko Kanaya Hotel or Kinugawa Onsen Yume no Yado (both known for being accommodating to guests with tattoos). Google Maps Link
- Onsen Relaxation: Enjoy the onsen facilities after check-in.
- Lunch:
- Local Cuisine: Try some yuba (tofu skin) dishes at a nearby restaurant.
- Afternoon:
- Explore Nikko: Visit Toshogu Shrine, the ornate resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through Rinnoji Temple and Futarasan Shrine.
- Evening:
- Dinner at Ryokan: Enjoy a kaiseki dinner featuring seasonal ingredients.
- Night:
- Onsen Relaxation: Enjoy a soak in the onsen, taking in the serene atmosphere.
Day 11: Edo Wonderland and Return to Tokyo
- Morning:
- Breakfast at Ryokan: Traditional Japanese breakfast.
- Visit Edo Wonderland: Depart for Edo Wonderland (about a 30-minute drive or public transport). Experience the Edo period through various attractions: ninja shows, traditional crafts, and samurai experiences.
- Lunch:
- Edo Wonderland: Enjoy lunch at one of the themed restaurants within the park.
- Afternoon:
- Explore More: Spend additional time in Edo Wonderland or explore nearby Kegon Falls or Lake Chuzenji if time permits.
- Evening:
- Return to Tokyo: Head back to Tobu Nikko Station and take the train to Tokyo.
- Dinner in Tokyo: Once back, consider dining in Asakusa or Shinjuku.
Day 12: Relax and Enjoy
- Round1 Games: Spend a day of leisure and games.
- Visit Local Parks: Take a stroll through a local park or garden.
- Café Hopping: Discover cozy cafes in your area.
Day 13: Arrival in Sapporo
- Explore Sapporo: Arrive and settle into your accommodation.
- Odori Park: Stroll through this central park, famous for its seasonal flowers and events.
- Sapporo TV Tower: Visit for panoramic views of the city.
Day 14: Sapporo Highlights
- Moerenuma Park: Spend the morning exploring this unique park designed by artist Isamu Noguchi, featuring sculptures and a large glass pyramid.
- Sapporo Beer Museum: Learn about the history of Sapporo beer and enjoy a tasting.
- Susukino District: Enjoy dinner in this vibrant nightlife area.
- Ramen Alley
Day 15: Dairy Farm Experience
- Dairy Farm Visit: Head to a local dairy farm, such as the Sapporo Milk Garden, for a tour. Enjoy fresh dairy products and experience farm activities.
- Lunch at the Farm: Savor delicious ice cream or cheese made on-site.
- Evening at Sapporo Factory: Explore this shopping and dining complex set in a former beer brewery.
Day 16: Takino Suzuran Hillside Park
- Takino Suzuran Hillside Park: Spend the day enjoying outdoor activities in this expansive park, featuring seasonal flowers, walking trails, and picnic areas.
- Nature Walks: Explore the various themed gardens and enjoy the beautiful landscape.
- Kamiyubetsu Tulip Park
- Evening Relaxation: Return to Sapporo for a relaxing evening. Consider a local onsen for relaxation.
Day 17: Otaru Day Trip
- Travel to Otaru: Take a day trip to this charming port city.
- Otaru Canal: Walk along the historic canal, lined with shops and cafes.
- Glassworks and Music Boxes: Visit local artisan shops specializing in glassworks and music boxes.
- Fresh Seafood Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant, trying local specialties like sushi.
Day 18: Nature and Scenic Views
- Furepe Waterfall: Visit this picturesque waterfall for stunning views and photography opportunities.
- Shakotan Peninsula: Take a scenic drive to see the beautiful coastline and enjoy the azure waters.
- Cape Kamui: Hike to the cape for breathtaking ocean views.
Day 19: Return to Tokyo
- Visit Any Missed Spots: If time permits, revisit a favorite location or explore a new area in Sapporo.
- Departure: Head to the airport for your flight.
Day 20: Thrifting Day
- 2nd Street: Explore for unique thrift finds.
- TreFac: Continue your thrift shopping adventure.
- Hard Off in the Suburbs: Check out second-hand electronics and more.
Day 21: Last-Minute Shopping
- Explore local shops for souvenirs or snacks.
Day 22: Departure
- Visit Any Missed Spots: If time permits, revisit a favorite location or explore a new area in Tokyo.
- Departure: Head to the airport for your flight.
by drunkengerbil