Hey Everyone,
I (21M, American) am traveling to Japan for 2 weeks, (arrive in Tokyo on the 30th of December, leave the 13th of January). I’m a relatively experienced hiker, though I will be traveling alone. Whether it’s important to note or not, I speak enough Japanese to get around (Ask directions, order, etc.) though my conversation skills are very limited.
I don’t normally make concrete plans in my travel, I like to explore and “ride my wave” so to speak, though I generally have a few places in mind I’d like to visit in each location
My current itinerary is
December 30th to January 2nd – Tokyo (I’d like to visit Kichijoji and Mt. Fuji at some point, other than that no specific plans.)
January 3rd to 5th – Kyoto (Fushimi Inari or any other shrines if it’s too busy)
January 6th – Hakodate (No specific plans)
January 7th to 10th – Sapporo (Hiking in general hokkaido area, Shikotsu-Toya, Daisetsuzan)
January 11th to 13th – Tokyo (More city life, wasting time until my flight home)
Most of my current lodgings are in hostels, so I’m not too worried about cancelling any bookings for better locations / sights (Costs were very low). Other than lodging and plane tickets though I’ve yet to book any other plans. I’ve also been unable to get an R pass for whatever reason, though I’m still looking into getting one for my time. I’d prefer to not break the bank but money is far from an issue.
For the time in Tokyo and Kyoto I’m mainly looking for local city / cultural life, but for my time in Hokkaido I’m really looking for some good outdoors / hiking destinations. I have a few parks in mind but nothing set in stone yet, and would love any recommendations anyone has, even if it’s just sight seeing or nice towns in the area.
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I’m interested in visiting some smaller towns/attractions as well, if anyone has some recommendations in the areas around these cities I’d love to hear them. (Very liberal in my definition of around, up to an hour away by bullet train, preferably)
Thanks!