My bf and I will be making a trip to Japan from December 22 – December 31 before we continue on to SE Asia. This will be my 8th time in Japan but it has been 5 years since my last trip so I’m hoping for some more up to date info if available. It will be my bf’s first time in Asia so I want to make sure it will be a good “highlights trip” (we plan on going back for a dedicated Japan trip when it is warmer). Opinions on the below itinerary is very much appreciated (spend more/less time somewhere, go somewhere else instead, new tourist attractions, must eat places, etc.).
I know it’s a lot in a short amount of time but my bf is someone who likes to pack in as much as possible when travelling (although he has yet to experience the beautiful organized chaos that is Asia, so it might change after this trip).
​
**Tokyo**
Dec 22: Flight lands at 16:55. Explore hotel area.
Dec 23: Asakusa and Shinjuku
Dec 24: Meji Shrine, Harajuku, Shibuya
Dec 25: Tsukiji outdoor market, Akihabara
**Kyoto**
Dec 26: Arrive in Kyoto in the morning by bullet train. Explore Arashiyama District.
Dec 27: Nishiki Market and as many temples as we can fit in!
**Kobe/Osaka**
Dec 28: Train to Kobe for lunch. Then onward to Osaka. Explore Namba District.
Dec 29: Osaka castle/ explore / maybe aquarium
Dec 30: Day trip to Nara or back to Kyoto or Harry Potter World
Dec 31: Fight at 11:00.