Hi everyone! I’m planning a solo trip to Japan in November and would love some advice on my itinerary and to see if its doable.
My main focus is on seeing koyo (autumn foliage) and exploring the Tohoku region, as well as visiting a friend in Taiwan. Here’s what I have so far:
Day 1: Nov 2 – Depart from MCO to HND
Day 2: Nov 3 – Tokyo
– Arrive in Tokyo (Haneda) in the evening.
Day 3: Nov 4 – Tokyo to Nikko
– Early morning train to Nikko.
– Explore Shinkyo Bridge, Shoyoen Garden, Tamozawa Imperial Villa.
– Check-in to accommodation in Nikko.
– Evening: Visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine.
Day 4: Nov 5 – Nikko
– Full day exploring Nikko area: Kegon Falls, Chuzenji Onsen, Ryuzu Waterfall, Senjogahara Marshland.
– Overnight in Nikko.
Day 5: Nov 6 – Nikko to Aizu Wakamatsu
– Morning travel to Aizu Wakamatsu (approx. 3 hours).
– Afternoon: Explore Bukeyashiki, Tsuruga Castle.
– Overnight in Aizu Wakamatsu.
Day 6: Nov 7 – Aizu Wakamatsu to Ouchi-juku
– Travel to Ouchi-juku (approx. 1 hour).
– Explore Ouchi-juku.
– Overnight in Ouchi-juku.
Day 7: Nov 8 – Ouchi-juku to Yamadera
– Morning exploration in Ouchi-juku.
– Travel to Yamadera (approx. 3.5 hours).
– Afternoon: Hike and explore Risshaku-ji Temple (Yamadera).
– Overnight in Yamadera.
Day 8: Nov 9 – Yamadera
– Full day exploring Yamadera?
– Overnight in Yamadera.
Day 9: Nov 10 – Yamadera to Ginzan Onsen
– Morning travel to Ginzan Onsen (approx. 1.5 hours).
– Explore Ginzan Onsen.
– Overnight in Ginzan Onsen.
Day 10: Nov 11 – Ginzan Onsen
– Full day relaxing at Ginzan Onsen: Shirogane Park, hot springs.
– Overnight in Ginzan Onsen.
Day 11: Nov 12 – Ginzan Onsen to Sendai
– Travel to Sendai (approx. 2 hours).
– Explore Zuihoden, Aoba Castle, Jozenji-dori Avenue.
– Overnight in Sendai.
Day 12: Nov 13 – Tokyo to Taipei
Day 13: Nov 14 – Taipei
– Taipei 101
– National Palace Museum
– Shilin Night Market
Day 14: Nov 15 – Taipei
– Jiufen Old Street
– Shifen Waterfall
Day 15: Nov 16 – Taipei to Tokyo
– Overnight in Tokyo
Day 16: Nov 17 – Tokyo to Orlando
Thank you for any help! I plan to book all my tickets and accommodations in advance. Any tips or recommendations for the above itinerary are greatly appreciated.
by Kozure96