Hi r/JapanTravel, I posted a long while ago but have amended my trip and would love for some help with my new plan! I will be traveling to Japan for the first time and was looking for advice on the itinerary I have planned. Is it too rushed or does it sound about right for a mid-20s couple who would like to have romantic relaxation on some days but hit the ground running on other days? I am coming from the US and have booked flights for 12/3-12/18.
I am more of a country/hiking person as opposed to a city person, but feel like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are musts. I also love nature and want to experience the quieter/traditional aspects of Japanese culture too and **really** want to hike the Nakasendo Trail between Magome-Tsumago. Please feel free to criticize the pacing of this trip.
* Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo
* Harujuku, Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, dinner in Roppongi (Tokyo City View for sunset)
* Day 2: Tokyo
* Asakusa (Sense-Ji Temple), Ueno, explore Ginza, explore Piss Alley, Shinjuku
* Day 3: Trip to Mt Fuji
* Kawaguchiko, Chureito Pagoda, Momiji Tunnel. Overnight in onsen.
* Day 4: Fuji
* Fuji Q Highland
* Day 5: Back to Tokyo
* Imperial Palace & Metropolitan Offices Observatory
* Day 6: Head to Magome
* Overnight in ryokan
* Day 7: Nakesendo Trail, end in Tsumago
* Day 8: Head to Kyoto
* Kiyomizudera, Gion, Hokanji sunset
* Day 9: Kyoto
* Fushimi Inari Taisha, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Monkey Park
* Day 10: Kyoto
* Sanenzaka-Ninenzaka, Pontocho Alley
* Day 11: Final day in Kyoto
* Hozugawa River Cruise
* Day 12: Head to Osaka
* Shinsekai, eat at Kuromon, Dotonburi, Hozenji Yokocho Alley
* Day 13: Osaka
* Universal
* Day 14: Osaka
* Nara day trip
* Day 15: Extra day to chill in Osaka before evening flight
Thank you all for the help!!!
![[TRIP REPORT] 14 days in Japan focusing on day trips from Tokyo with the JR Pass.](https://www.lonelyjapan.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/K71NFlwQOpVhz1URbM7GoceE2R2eZ5KD-7M8nHNx-Ts-380x220.jpg)
2 comments
Why not do the Nakasendo after Tokyo, this way you would save a round trip Osaka to Nagoya.
We were just in Japan and did the Magome to Tsumago hike. It was lovely! The route from Magome to Tsumago is easier than the reverse in terms of uphill versus downhill. We really took our time (am old and not in the world’s best shape), and it took only 4 hours. Most people do it in 2-3 hours I think.
If I could change anything, I would stay two nights because of the accommodation we chose (thanks to recommendations on here!) We stayed at a ryokan called Takimi no le, and it was simply magical! It’s not what I would call super “luxury” in terms of elaborate fittings and such. But it is sheer luxury in terms of the experience. The most gracious host picks you up at the bus station and drops you off for the start of your hike. He also made and served a fabulous and extensive traditional dinner — the best we had in Japan. Breakfast was also quite good. The onsen tubs — two, one indoor, one outdoor cyprus tub– overlook two waterfalls in a forest setting. I can’t wait to go back.