Hey all,
I planned a 3 week trip to Japan and wanted some advice.
Planned:
25/1/ – arrive early in Narita
25/1/ – 28/1/ – Nikko. Jetleg, temples and some hiking
28/1/ – 30/1/ – Hakone. Lake and probably not Fujisan, but one can hope
30/1/ – 3/2/ – Kyoto. Temples, daytrip to Nara,…
3/2/ – 4/2/ – Hiroshima. Museums
4/2/ – 5/4/ – Full day in Miyajima
Himeji at some point en route.
And then I’m not sure. Either 2 days in Kanazawa and Takayama each or I could do Osaka/Koyasan and something on the way. Or even stay in Kyoto again. I love those damn temples.
9/2/ – 15/2 – Tokyo.
Anything I could skip?
3 comments
I can’t say for Kanazawa or Takayama, but Koyasan was nice. Kinosaki Onsen is my favorite place in Japan and may be worth considering for you. It is a few hours from Kyoto.
Just out of curiosity, when do you land in Narita? I’m not going to say it is impossible or terribly difficult, but you might want to land and give yourself a little time to get used to the train system before going straight to Nikko. That said, when I went I had a friend that flew in late and met us in Nikko, he got in at like 9pm and somehow managed, we were really afraid he wouldn’t make it. You will probably be fine but worth thinking about.
My wife and I really enjoyed Takayama, a worthwhile detour off the golden route. So I would recommend fitting it in if you can.
I think your decision should be based on what you’re looking for.
I’ve been to Takayama+Kanazawa as well as Koyasan.
The first two offer a more traditional landscape and you can include a visit to Shirakawago (UNESCO site) which is a very picturesque town. I loved Kanazawa’s garden, Kenroku-en is gorgeous and Takayama’s old streets are beautiful.
Meanwhile, Osaka (haven’t been there but going this November!) seems to be more food and nightlife oriented. Also a big city with more Tokyo vibes?
Koyasan, on the other hand is more of a spiritual place. Staying in a shukubo, visiting the cemetery at night and waking up for the morning ritual is a very unique experience.
You’ll enjoy either way, I’m sure!