Hello everyone,
My girlfriend and I will go to Japan in October 2025 an I began planning a rough route. BUT having never been before, I am kind of having a hard time planning and selecting. As we are divers and want to go scuba diving on Okinawa this is a must for us. The rest is all open for discussion and I would very much appreciate your feedback ☺️
➡️Is it too much?
➡️Do you recommend adapting something?
➡️Or adding something else entirely (have also heard about Kyushu)?
I skipped Hokkaido on purpose bc I read it adds a lot of time and is sometimes more crowded. Thats why I chose Shikoku. But if you think differently let me know.
Day 1-4: Tokyo (4 Nights)
Arrival in Tokyo. Explore local neighborhoods like Shimokitazawa or Yanaka.
Visit TeamLab Museum and explore Asakusa and Shibuya.
Day trip to Oishi Park for Mount Fuji views, Chureito Pagoda, and Lake Kawaguchi.
Leisure day in Tokyo for shopping and exploring hidden gems.
Day 5-9: Okinawa (5 Nights)
Fly to Okinawa.
Diving and island exploration around Kerama or Ishigaki.
Flying back to Osaka and train to Kyoto – I have heard that Osaka is like a little Tokyo, so I thought maybe to skip it.
Day 10-11: Kyoto (2 Nights)
Visit Rurikoin Temple and Sanzen-in Temple. Evening stroll through Gion.
Day trip to Wazuka for a tea farm experience.
Day 12-14: Kanazawa (3 Nights)
Train to Kanazawa. Explore Kenrokuen Garden and Nagamachi Samurai District.
Day trip to Shirakawa-go for traditional farmhouses.
Visit the Geisha District
Day 15-17: Shikoku (3 Nights)
Travel from Kanazawa to Shikoku (~3 hours). Evening bioluminescent sea kayaking tour.
Full day in the Iya Valley for hikes and the vine bridge.
Explore the coastal villages and relax in an onsen or enjoy scenic drives.
Day 18-20: Himeji (3 Nights)
Travel to Himeji tour of Himeji Castle.
Explore Koko-en Garden and relax in the evening at a ryokan.
Leisure time in Himeji or short local hike.
Day 21-23: Tokyo (3 Nights)
Return to Tokyo. Leisure day for shopping and exploring.
Final day to maybe visit Meiji Shrine and Shinjuku Gyoen park.
If you have read that far, thank you already 🙏
by silvester06
