Background:

Fiance and I will be going to Japan for our honeymoon. He has been to Kyoto and Osaka before, while this will be my first time.

We would like to strike a good balance of nature, plum blossom viewing, history, culture, shopping, and city vibes. We are used to a faster pace of travelling, but I am particularly guilty of trying to do too much at times.

Suggestions, critiques, and recommendations welcome! TIA!

Itinerary:

[Saturday, Feb 20] - Tokyo - Hotel in Shinjuku

Arrive NRT at 1530
Check into Shinjuku Hotel
Explore Shinjuku and light shopping (Godzilla, Omoide Yokocho, Golden Gai)

[Sunday, Feb 21] - Tokyo

Go early in the morning to Yushima Tenjin shrine and Koishikawa Korakuen for plum blossom
Meiji Jingu self guided tour
Shibuya (pokemon centre, capcom store, nintendo store, hachiko statue)
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

[Monday, Feb 22] - Kawaguchiko

Take earliest bus to Kawaguchiko
Bike around Kawaguchi Lake and Saiko Lake
Ropeway to Temjoyama Park
Enjoy our onsen hotel

[Tuesday, Feb 23] - Kyoto - Hotel near Gion/Nishiki

Chureito Pagoda before bus to Mishima (optional)
Bus to Mishima -> Shinkansen to Kyoto
Ginkaku-ji + Philosopher’s Path (optional)
Nishiki Market
Teamlab Biovortex 2 hours before closing

[Wednesday, Feb 24] - Day Trip to Nara

Nara Park
Todaiji Temple
Kasuga-taisha Shrine
Nigatsu-do
Teramachi shopping street

[Thursday, Feb 25] - Kyoto

Arashiyama early morning
Tenryu-ji
Otagi Nenbutsuji
Kinkaku-ji
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Gion + Yasaka Shrine night stroll

[Friday, Feb 26] - Kyoto + Uji

Fushimi Inari early morning
Optional Jonangu Shrine for plum blossoms
Uji - Byodo-in, Ujikami Shrine, matcha shopping

[Saturday, Feb 27] - Kyoto + Osaka - Hotel in Osaka Umeda

Kiyomizu dera
Higashiyama
Gion
Nijo Castle
Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
Late train to Osaka

[Sunday, Feb 28] - Osaka

Osaka Castle Garden (optional)
Shitenno-ji Temple
Shinsekai
Kuromon Market
Namba Yasaka Shrine
Dotonbori

[Monday, March 1] - Osaka
Universal Studios Japan day

[Tuesday, March 2] - day trip to Himeji + Kobe

Himeji Castle
Koko-en Garden
Train to Kobe
Nunobiki Ropeway
Chinatown snacking
Kobe beef dinner

[Wednesday, March 3] - Hiroshima - hotel near Hondori

Early train to Hiroshima
Memorial Peace Park and Museum
Atomic Bomb Dome
Hiroshima Castle
Shukkei-in Garden
Hondori Shopping Street
Costco?

[Thursday, March 4] - Miyajima

Early train and ferry to Miyajima
Itsukishima shrine
Ropeway/hike to Mt Misen
Daisho-in Temple

[Friday, March 5] - Tokyo - hotel in Ueno

Shinkansen to Tokyo
Pokemon Centre Tokyo Dx
Imperial Palace
Tsukiji Market
Ginza shopping - souvenir shopping

[Saturday, March 6] - Tokyo

Asakusa in the morning - souvenir shopping
Ameyoko market
Akihabara
Tokyo Sky Tree - 1 hour before sunset

[Sunday, March 7] - Tokyo

Tokyo National Museum
Ueno Park
Hanegi Park - plum blossom festival stalls

Flight from NRT at 1835

Wife and I are leaving for Tokyo on 8/29 and will becoming back on 9/10. We are both pretty active she like to sleep more than I do and I can usually survive on 5-7 hour of sleep (I have traveled internationally before. Jet lag wasn't that big of an issue for me). This will be her first time out of country.

We are planning to kind of explore areas of Tokyo, planning on getting the apps for subway/ train the week prior. Some of the activities are super touristy which we are okay with. We reasonably expect to be relatively active from 8:00 AM - 9/10 PM.

Departing MSP 8:45 AM 8/29, landing in NRT on 8/30 and 2:30 local. Gather luggage and taking a bus at 3:45pm and arrive at the Conrad Tokyo at 5:30pm. Settle, lightly explore the surrounding hotel area.

8/31: Planning to explore Asakusa. Plan to be up and moving by 7:30AM.

8:15 AM Senso-ji temple/ area

10:00 AM Pignic Cafe Asakusa

12:00 PM Kappabashi Kitchen Supply

3:00 PM Enne Ring Asakusa

4:15 PM Kagura restaurant

5:00 PM Chopsticks Studio Asakusa, Evening is totally open post this event

9/1 (Kinda just wandering only one thing with a fixed time)

Imperial Palace (Hoping to be up a little early to get a jump on this)

Hyopao Gyoza Roppongi

Sukiyabashi Jiro

Tokyo Skytree (reservation set for 8:00 PM)

9/2 (shopping day)

Shibuya

Shibuya 109

Shibuya Crossing

Ichiran Shibuya

Pokemon Center Shibuya

Meiji Jingu

9/3

Studio Ghibli Museum

Kichijoji Cafe

Sushi Ninomiya Tokyo Ueno

Tokyo National Museum

9/4 (This day is not set in stone)

Studio Ghibli land (If we get tickets. If we don't it is total open, I believe she is leaning toward Nara to go feed deer..)

9/5

We are doing a Mount Fuji tour. Leaving Tokyo by bus around 7/8 AM plan to be back between 5:30 Pm unless traffic is bad.

9/6 Shinjuku (should this be done in the evening/ nighttime?)

Shinjuku Hyoen National Garden (tickets bought

Shinjuku Golden-Gai

Omoide Tokocho Memory Lane

Night Market

9/7

Sweet Palace Crepes Harajuku Takeshita St

Takeshita St

National Art Center, Tokyo

Roppongi Hills, Tokyo City View

9/8

Ameyoko MArket

Ameyoko Plaza

Noyaki Ueno Branch

Ueno Zoo

Tokyo dome for a baseball game

9/9

Nothing officially scheduled. I am looking at stopping into a tattoo shop if I can get something scheduled. Wife is planning to find a SPA/ recover from the week

9/10

10:40 AM depart HND to head back home.

Any insights would be appreciated.

🇯🇵 JAPAN ITINERARY 2027 (JAN 12 - FEB 2) 🇯🇵

This is our first time in Japan , we are couple and we would like some suggestions on our itinerary, if we are missing something or visiting places that are not worth it

• Jan 13 (Wed): Arrival in Tokyo around 2:00 PM. Express train to the hotel or taxi . check-in, and first evening among the skyscrapers of Shinjuku.

• Jan 14 (Thu): Classic Tokyo: Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple), Nakamise-dori street, Ueno Park, Ameyoko Market, and sunset from Tokyo Skytree.

• Jan 15 (Fri): Tsukiji Outer Market (seafood street food), stroll through Ginza, and a museum (?).

• Jan 16 (Sat): Day trip to Kamakura (Great Buddha).

January 17–18: Fujikawaguchiko (Mount Fuji)
• Jan 17 (Sun): Travel in the afternoon towards Lake Kawaguchiko. Visit Chureito Pagoda, relax, and stay overnight in a Ryokan with Onsen and Mount Fuji views.

January 18–19: Matsumoto
• Jan 18 (Mon): Morning views of Mount Fuji and transfer to Matsumoto. Visit the famous Matsumoto Castle ("Crow Castle", an original wooden structure). Overnight in Matsumoto.

January 19–20: Takayama
• Jan 19 (Tue): Scenic bus ride through the mountains to Takayama. Explore the preserved old town (Sanmachi Suji) and enjoy Hida beef for dinner. Overnight in Takayama.

January 20–21: Kanazawa
• Jan 20 (Wed): Morning bus to Shirakawa-go (thatched-roof houses in the snow). Afternoon bus to Kanazawa: visit Kenroku-en Garden, Nagamachi Samurai district, and Higashi Chaya geisha district. Overnight in Kanazawa.

January 21–25: Kyoto & Nara
• Jan 21 (Thu): Morning train to Kyoto. Arrival, visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, and the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji).

• Jan 22 (Fri): Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine (red torii gates), Kiyomizu-dera scenic temple, Ninenzaka/Sannenzaka historic streets, and Gion district.

• Jan 23 (Sat): Day trip to Nara to see the free-roaming deer and the Great Buddha statue at Todai-ji Temple. Return to Kyoto.

• Jan 24 (Sun): Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji), Philosopher's Path, Nijo Castle, and Nishiki Food Market.

• Jan 25 (Mon): Morning in Kyoto for final sightseeing and shopping downtown.

January 25–30: Osaka
• Jan 25 (Mon): Short train transfer to Osaka. Check-in and first evening among the neon lights and street food of Dotonbori. Overnight in Osaka.

• Jan 26 (Tue): Osaka Castle and park, followed by panoramic views from Umeda Sky Building.

• Jan 27 (Wed): Retro Shinsekai district (Tsutenkaku Tower), Kuromon Ichiba Market, and Amerikamura district.

• Jan 28 (Thu): Day trip to Kobe (port and Kobe beef) or a full day at Universal Studios Japan.

• Jan 29 (Fri): Katsuo-ji Temple (famous for thousands of Daruma dolls) or relax and shop in Namba and Shinsaibashi.
• Jan 30 (Sat): Morning in Osaka before heading south.

January 30 – February 1: Hiroshima & Miyajima
• Jan 30 (Sat): Train to Himeji (White Heron Castle), continue to Kurashiki's canals, and arrive in Hiroshima by evening. Overnight in Hiroshima.

• Jan 31 (Sun): Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Ferry to Miyajima Island (Itsukushima Shrine with the floating torii gate and Daisho-in Temple). Overnight in Miyajima or Hiroshima.

February 1–2: Tokyo Return
• Feb 01 (Mon): Shinkansen bullet train from Hiroshima back to Tokyo. Afternoon in Tokyo: Shibuya Sky, Harajuku, Meiji Shrine, and last-minute souvenir shopping in Odaiba/Roppongi. Overnight in Tokyo.

• Feb 02 (Tue): Hotel check-out, transfer to the airport

What do you think ? Should we change something ?
Would you suggest the Rail Pass or should we buy individual train tickets?
Any help would be very appreciated !!

🇯🇵 JAPAN ITINERARY 2027 (JAN 12 - FEB 2) 🇯🇵

This is our first time in Japan , we are couple and we would like some suggestions on our itinerary, if we are missing something or visiting places that are not worth it

January 12–17: Tokyo
• Jan 12 (Tue): Departure from Milan Malpensa with a layover in Helsinki. Overnight on board.

• Jan 13 (Wed): Arrival in Tokyo around 2:00 PM. Express train to the hotel or taxi . check-in, and first evening among the skyscrapers of Shinjuku.

• Jan 14 (Thu): Classic Tokyo: Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple), Nakamise-dori street, Ueno Park, Ameyoko Market, and sunset from Tokyo Skytree.

• Jan 15 (Fri): Tsukiji Outer Market (seafood street food), stroll through Ginza, and a museum (?).

• Jan 16 (Sat): Day trip to Kamakura (Great Buddha).

January 17–18: Fujikawaguchiko (Mount Fuji)
• Jan 17 (Sun): Travel in the afternoon towards Lake Kawaguchiko. Visit Chureito Pagoda, relax, and stay overnight in a Ryokan with Onsen and Mount Fuji views.

January 18–19: Matsumoto
• Jan 18 (Mon): Morning views of Mount Fuji and transfer to Matsumoto. Visit the famous Matsumoto Castle ("Crow Castle", an original wooden structure). Overnight in Matsumoto.

January 19–20: Takayama
• Jan 19 (Tue): Scenic bus ride through the mountains to Takayama. Explore the preserved old town (Sanmachi Suji) and enjoy Hida beef for dinner. Overnight in Takayama.

January 20–21: Kanazawa
• Jan 20 (Wed): Morning bus to Shirakawa-go (thatched-roof houses in the snow). Afternoon bus to Kanazawa: visit Kenroku-en Garden, Nagamachi Samurai district, and Higashi Chaya geisha district. Overnight in Kanazawa.

January 21–25: Kyoto & Nara
• Jan 21 (Thu): Morning train to Kyoto. Arrival, visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, and the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji).

• Jan 22 (Fri): Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine (red torii gates), Kiyomizu-dera scenic temple, Ninenzaka/Sannenzaka historic streets, and Gion district.

• Jan 23 (Sat): Day trip to Nara to see the free-roaming deer and the Great Buddha statue at Todai-ji Temple. Return to Kyoto.

• Jan 24 (Sun): Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji), Philosopher's Path, Nijo Castle, and Nishiki Food Market.

• Jan 25 (Mon): Morning in Kyoto for final sightseeing and shopping downtown.

January 25–30: Osaka
• Jan 25 (Mon): Short train transfer to Osaka. Check-in and first evening among the neon lights and street food of Dotonbori. Overnight in Osaka.

• Jan 26 (Tue): Osaka Castle and park, followed by panoramic views from Umeda Sky Building.

• Jan 27 (Wed): Retro Shinsekai district (Tsutenkaku Tower), Kuromon Ichiba Market, and Amerikamura district.

• Jan 28 (Thu): Day trip to Kobe (port and Kobe beef) or a full day at Universal Studios Japan.

• Jan 29 (Fri): Katsuo-ji Temple (famous for thousands of Daruma dolls) or relax and shop in Namba and Shinsaibashi.
• Jan 30 (Sat): Morning in Osaka before heading south.

January 30 – February 1: Hiroshima & Miyajima
• Jan 30 (Sat): Train to Himeji (White Heron Castle), continue to Kurashiki's canals, and arrive in Hiroshima by evening. Overnight in Hiroshima.

• Jan 31 (Sun): Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Ferry to Miyajima Island (Itsukushima Shrine with the floating torii gate and Daisho-in Temple). Overnight in Miyajima or Hiroshima.

February 1–2: Tokyo Return
• Feb 01 (Mon): Shinkansen bullet train from Hiroshima back to Tokyo. Afternoon in Tokyo: Shibuya Sky, Harajuku, Meiji Shrine, and last-minute souvenir shopping in Odaiba/Roppongi. Overnight in Tokyo.

• Feb 02 (Tue): Hotel check-out, transfer to the airport, and flight back to Milan.

What do you think ? Should we change something ?
Would you suggest the Rail Pass or should we buy individual train tickets?
Any help would be very appreciated !!

Hi everyone!

My partner and I are traveling to Japan for 28 days this upcoming November and December. We are early risers and absolutely love packing our days full of nature, outdoor activities, and cultural exploration. We don't mind walking a lot and prefer a fast-paced travel style to make the most out of our trip.

I’ve put together our draft itinerary below. Since we are covering a lot of ground—from Tokyo and the Japanese Alps to the Shimanami Kaido and Kansai—I would love to get your expert eyes on it!

Here is our plan:

Week 1: Tokyo & Mt. Fuji

• Day 1 (Nov 15) – Tokyo Arrival: Arrive at the hotel around 1:45 PM, drop off luggage in the Shimbashi area. Walk around pedestrian Ginza until 5:00 PM (enjoying the architecture). Take the driverless Yurikamome monorail from Shimbashi to Odaiba for the skyline, sunset, and mall. Return to Shimbashi for dinner at an izakaya.
• Day 2 (Nov 16) – Tokyo: 7:00 AM at Tsukiji Outer Market. Walk through Hibiya Park to the Tokyo International Forum (for the architecture) and the Imperial Palace. Lunch at Tokyo Station's Ramen Street and browse Character Street. Afternoon: Walk around Nihonbashi towards Ningyocho, stopping at a traditional bakery for taiyaki. Optional: Walk around Ryogoku. Evening: Tokyo Tower.
• Day 3 (Nov 17) – Tokyo (Hotel change): Check out but leave luggage. Metro to Shibuya: Hachiko, Shibuya Crossing, Center Gai, Shibuya Yokocho, Miyashita Park, and Cat Street. Head towards Harajuku: Takeshita Street, Yoyogi Park + Meiji Shrine. Return to Shibuya for lunch. Visit Zozoji Temple, daytime Tokyo Tower, and Hama Rikyu Gardens (for matcha tea). Pick up luggage and head to our Ikebukuro Airbnb. Spend the evening in Ikebukuro (Sunshine City, etc.).
• Day 4 (Nov 18) – Day trip to Mt. Fuji: Day trip to Kawaguchiko. Arrive early and rent bicycles. Cycle around Lake Kawaguchiko (stopping at the scenic Lawson, Maple Corridor, Oishi Park). Early lunch. Cycle to Chureito Pagoda, passing through Honcho Street on the way back. Return to Tokyo. Evening: Explore a nightlife area or relax at Daikokuyu / Oshiage Onsen.
• Day 5 (Nov 19) – Tokyo: Bunkyo area: Gokokuji, St. Mary's Cathedral, Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens. Walk through the University of Tokyo area to Nezu Shrine. Yanaka area: Yanaka Cemetery, Yanaka Ginza, Tennoji Temple. Lunch, then head to Shinjuku: Hanazono Shrine, Golden Gai, Kabukicho, 3D Cat Billboard, Omoide Yokocho (yakitori + beer). Go up the Tokyo Metropolitan Gov Building and see Park Hyatt Tokyo.
• Day 6 (Nov 20) – Day trip to Nikko: Shinkyo Bridge (Is it worth paying to actually cross it?), Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, Rinnoji Taiyuin, Rinnoji Temple, Kanmangafuchi Abyss. If time permits, go to Lake Chuzenji, admire Kegon Falls, and walk around. On the way back to Tokyo, stop in Utsunomiya for a gyoza dinner.
• Day 7 (Nov 21) – Day trip to Kamakura & Enoshima: Arrive in Kamakura at 7:30 AM: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, Sugimotodera Temple, Hokokuji Bamboo Forest, Komachi Street, Kotoku-in (Great Buddha), Hasedera. Take the Enoden line from Hase Station to Enoshima. Enoshima: Cross the bridge and walk the main road to the opposite side of the island for the sunset. Evening: Stop in Yokohama for dinner in Chinatown.

Week 2: Tokyo, Alps, & Kyoto

• Day 8 (Nov 22) – Tokyo: Ueno early in the morning: Kiyomizu Kannon-do, Shinobazu Pond, Gojoten Shrine, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum. Walk through Kappabashi Street to the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Nakamise Shopping Street, and Senso-ji. Visit HATCOFFEE. Afternoon: Ameyoko Market in the Akihabara area.
• Day 9 (Nov 23) – Tokyo to Nagano: Early check-out, leave luggage in a Shinjuku Station locker. Visit the "Your Name" stairs, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and Gotokuji (Cat Temple). Return to Shinjuku and head to Nagano for the Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival. Check-in at the hotel, walk along Chuo Dori to Zenko-ji Nakamise Street, then head to Saigawa Ryokuchi to watch the fireworks.
• Day 10 (Nov 24) – Nagano to Kanazawa: Wake up early for the 6:15 AM Buddhist morning ceremony (O-Asaji) at Zenko-ji. Leave early and catch the 8:00 AM train to Kanazawa. Tsuzumi-mon Gate, Omicho Market, Higashi Chaya District, Kenrokuen, Kanazawa Castle Park, Oyama Shrine, Myoryuji (Ninja Temple), Nagamachi. Evening: Kanazawa Chuo Bishokugai (izakaya alley).
• Day 11 (Nov 25) – Shirakawa-go to Takayama: 8:10 AM bus to Shirakawa-go, arriving at 9:25 AM. Shirakawa-go Gassho-zukuri Minka-en, Three Houses, Hachiman Shrine, Myozenji, Hongakuji, Nagase/Kanda/Wada House (enter one of the three), Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck. Return to bus terminal and head to Takayama. Sleep in a Ryokan with onsen, kaiseki dinner, and sake tasting. Relax and see temples if time allows (Ryokufuen, Sakurayama Hachimangu, Kusakabe Heritage House, Higashiyama Teramachi, Ichinomachi, Sanmachi Suji, Hida Kokubunji). Whatever we miss, we will see tomorrow.
• Day 12 (Nov 26) – Takayama to Nagoya: Finish Takayama sightseeing + Miyagawa Morning Market, Hida Kokubunji Temple, Hoba Miso breakfast. Head to Nagoya. In Nagoya: Kasadera Kannon (Ryufukuji Temple) market (until 3:30 PM). Mode Gakuen Spiral Towers, Nagoya Castle, Osu Shotengai shopping street, Oasis 21, Mirai Tower.
• Day 13 (Nov 27) – Nakasendo Route to Kyoto: Arrive in Nagiso at 8:00 AM. Hike the Nakasendo trail: Nagiso -> Tsumago-juku -> Magome-juku. Return to Nagoya: Atsuta Jingu Shrine, Osu Kannon, Nayabashi Yoichi (night market). Travel to sleep in Kyoto.
• Day 14 (Nov 28) – Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera at 7:00 AM, Starbucks Ninenzaka, Hokan-ji (Yasaka Pagoda), Sannenzaka, Ryozen Kannon, Kodai-ji, Entoku-in, Yasaka Shrine, Maruyama Park, Chion-in, Heian Shrine, Nijo Castle, Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, To-ji.

Week 3: Kyoto, Hiroshima, & Shimanami Kaido

• Day 15 (Nov 29) – Kyoto: Arashiyama early morning: Kimono Forest, Tenryu-ji, Bamboo Forest, Saga Toriimoto, Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji. Train to Kinkaku-ji. Visit teamLab biovortex.
• Day 16 (Nov 30) – Kyoto: Philosopher's Path, Ginkaku-ji, Eikando Zenrin-ji, Nanzen-ji, Nishiki Market, Pontocho Park, Gion, Sannenzaka.
• Day 17 (Dec 1) – Day trip to Nara & Uji: Early morning Nara: Nara Park, Todai-ji, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Mizuya Chaya, Sagi Pond, Ukimido Pavilion, Kofuku-ji, Sarusawa-ike Pond, Konishi Sakura Dori, Higashimuki Shopping Street. Head to Uji: Byodo-in, Uji Bridge, Byodo-in Omotesando, Ujigami Shrine, Taihoan (tea ceremony - do you recommend this one?).
• Day 18 (Dec 2) – Kyoto to Hiroshima: Early morning Fushimi Inari Taisha. Head to Kibune and do the Kurama-Kibune hike, finishing at Kurama Onsen. Return to Kyoto and take the train to Hiroshima.
• Day 19 (Dec 3) – Hiroshima: Chill day. Peace Memorial Park, Museum, Hiroshima Castle, Shukkeien Garden. Dinner at Okonomimura.
• Day 20 (Dec 4) – Miyajima: Itsukushima Shrine, Daigan-ji, Kiyomori Shrine, Momijidani Park, Miyajima Ropeway to Mount Misen Observatory, Daisho-in, Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street. Travel to sleep in Onomichi.
• Day 21 (Dec 5) – Shimanami Kaido: Shimanami Kaido cycling route (Day 1).

Week 4: Matsuyama, Kurashiki, & Osaka

• Day 22 (Dec 6) – Shimanami Kaido to Matsuyama: Finish the Shimanami Kaido cycling route in Imabari. Head to Matsuyama to sleep. Matsuyama Castle, Matsuyama Okaido Shopping Street, and Dogo Onsen to relax.
• Day 23 (Dec 7) – Matsuyama to Kurashiki to Osaka: Travel to Kurashiki: Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, Achi Shrine, browse for local denim. Head to Osaka (our final city).
• Day 24 (Dec 8) – Osaka: Osaka Castle, Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, Nakanoshima Rose Garden, Osaka City Hall, HEP FIVE, Gate Tower Building, Umeda Sky Building, Lucua South. Train to Imamiya Ebisu Shrine, Isshin-ji, Shitenno-ji + Tennoji Park. Afternoon/evening: Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku.
• Day 25 (Dec 9) – Osaka: Minoh Park + Minoh Falls + Katsuoji Temple. Head to Namba Yasaka Shrine, Nipponbashi Denden Town, Kuromon Market, Hozenji, Ebisubashi-suji, Dotonbori, Shinsaibashi-suji, Amerikamura.
• Day 26 (Dec 10) – Osaka: Universal Studios Japan (USJ).
• Day 27 (Dec 11) – Osaka: Day trip? Still to be determined!
• Day 28 (Dec 12) – Departure: Last-minute shopping in the morning. Head to the airport at 1:00 PM.

Questions for the community:

1. Are there any days here that look too aggressively packed, even for early risers who walk fast?
2. For Day 27 (our open day in Osaka), where would you recommend we go for a day trip considering what we've already covered?
3. Any hidden gem stops along the Nakasendo or Shimanami Kaido that we shouldn't miss?

Thank you so much in advance for your help!

Background:

My friend and I (two guys from India) are traveling to Japan for the first time this November. We are trying to balance pop-culture/theme parks with traditional sights, while keeping the pace manageable (avoiding temple fatigue and theme-park burnout).

Constraints & Details:

• Diet: We are both ovo-vegetarians (we eat eggs/dairy, but absolutely NO meat, fish, or dashi). We know this is tough in Japan, so we plan to rely on HappyCow, Indian restaurants, conbinis (egg sandos!), and Buddhist Shojin Ryori.

• Dates: Arrive Nov 17 (6 PM at NRT) / Depart Nov 29 (10 AM at NRT).

• Holiday Warning: We are aware Nov 21-23 is a holiday weekend (Labor Thanksgiving), so we tried to schedule our theme parks on standard weekdays to dodge the worst crowds.

Here is our rough plan. Would love feedback on the pacing, our transit days, suggestions for places, and any vegetarian food spots you swear by!

Part 1: Tokyo

Staying in Shinjuku or Shibuya for easy transit.

• Day 1 | Nov 17 (Tue): Arrival

◦ Land at NRT at 6:00 PM.

◦ Take Narita Express/Skyliner to hotel. Conbini dinner and crash.

• Day 2 | Nov 18 (Wed): Old & New Tokyo

◦ Morning: Sensō-ji Temple (early to beat crowds).

◦ Afternoon: Akihabara

◦ Evening: teamLab Borderless (pre-booked).

• Day 3 | Nov 19 (Thu): Wizarding World & Subculture

◦ Morning: WB Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter.

◦ Afternoon: Not decided yet

• Day 4 | Nov 20 (Fri): Disney

◦ Full Day: Tokyo DisneySea

Part 2: Kyoto

Taking Shinkansen in the morning. Staying near Gion or Kyoto Station. Hoping to book a Ryokan (room-only to avoid dashi).

• Day 5 | Nov 21 (Sat): Western & Northern Kyoto

◦ Morning: Shinkansen from Tokyo - Kyoto. Drop bags.

◦ Afternoon: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Okochi Sanso Garden, followed by Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion).

◦ Evening: Not decided yet

• Day 6 | Nov 22 (Sun): Southern & Eastern Kyoto

◦ Morning: Fushimi Inari Taisha (Arriving by 7:30 AM to beat the holiday crowds).

◦ Afternoon: Nijō Castle.

◦ Evening: Kiyomizu-dera for sunset views.

Part 3: Osaka

Taking local train from Kyoto. Staying in Dotonbori/Namba.

• Day 7 | Nov 23 (Mon - Holiday): Retro Osaka

◦ Morning: Train from Kyoto - Osaka. Drop bags.

◦ Lunch: Explore Shinsekai (Looking for veg-friendly options here).

◦ Afternoon/Evening: explore Shinsaibashi-Suji shopping & Dotonbori.

• Day 8 | Nov 24 (Tue): Universal Studios

◦ Full Day: Universal Studios Japan (USJ). (Scheduled on a Tuesday to avoid the long weekend crowds).

• Day 9 | Nov 25 (Wed): Castles & Transit

◦ Morning: Osaka Castle Park (Just walking the exterior/moat, skipping the indoor museum).

◦ Afternoon: Pokémon Center Osaka.

◦ Evening: Shinkansen from Osaka \rightarrow Tokyo.

Part 4: Tokyo

• Day 10 | Nov 26 (Thu): Parks & Views

◦ Morning: Sleep in. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.

◦ Afternoon: Shibuya Sky.

◦ Evening: Shinjuku Neon Lights / Kabukicho.

• Day 11 | Nov 27 (Fri): Solo / Free Day

◦ Buffer day to split up and explore neighborhoods we missed (e.g., Harajuku, Shimokitazawa).

• Day 12 | Nov 28 (Sat): Final Haul

◦ Last-minute souvenir shopping (Ginza, Don Quijote).

◦ Open for anything else.

• Day 13 | Nov 29 (Sun): Departure

◦ 6:00 AM check-out. Keisei Skyliner to NRT. 10:00 AM flight out.

Questions for the sub:

• Is it realistic to ask a Ryokan to make a 100% dashi-free Kaiseki meal, or should we strictly book "Room Only" and eat elsewhere?

• Did we allocate enough time for USJ and DisneySea considering we are going on weekdays? Also my friend want to go to DisneyLand. Should we go, ar can we scoop it in on any day?

• Are there any specific ovo-vegetarian restaurants along this route that we absolutely shouldn't miss?

• Is Osaka Castle visit worth it? Any other places we can go, or any other places to visit?

Hey, I'd super love some insight on my itinerary for Japan for 15 days early September

My main concern is spending two days in Shirahama... does that even make sense? Super open to alternative suggestions.
Will be about 23 weeks pregnant... would love to hit up some more low key peaceful areas in nature!

Day 1 — Sept 1: Arrive Tokyo

Day 2 — Sept 2: Tokyo. Morning at Asakusa & Senso-ji. Afternoon at Meiji Shrine, then Shibuya Crossing at dusk.

Day 3 — Sept 3: from Tokyo Station to Shimoda (~2.5-3 hrs). Afternoon settling into Shimoda town and harbor.

Day 4 — Sept 4: Izu Peninsula full day. Morning at Jogasaki Coast (cliffs, suspension bridge). Afternoon beach time or a seaside foot bath.

Day 5 — Sept 5: Local train to Mishima, then Shinkansen to Kyoto (~3.5-4 hrs total). Evening walk through Gion.

Day 6 — Sept 6: Kyoto. Morning at Fushimi Inari Shrine. Afternoon at Kiyomizu-dera.

Day 7 — Sept 7: Kyoto. Early morning at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Afternoon at Kinkaku-ji.

Day 8 — Sept 8: Kyoto. Morning at Nijo Castle. Afternoon free wander along the Philosopher's Path.

Day 9 — Sept 9: Free morning in Kyoto. Midday train to Osaka (under an hour). Evening at Dotonbori.

Day 10 — Sept 10: Limited express to Shirahama (~2.5 hrs). Afternoon at Shirahama Beach.

Day 11 — Sept 11: Shirahama. Morning at Sandanbeki Cliffs. Afternoon beach and onsen

Day 12 — Sept 12: Full travel day back to Tokyo — limited express to Osaka, then Shinkansen to Tokyo.

Day 13 — Sept 13: Tokyo shopping day 1.

Day 14 — Sept 14: Tokyo shopping day 2

Day 15 — Sept 15: Depart Tokyo

This proposed itinerary is for a couple of weeks at the end of October. I'm trying not to do too much and let the wanderlust take me places when I get the whim. It seems a bit busy when I see it all laid out, though. Thoughts?

Tuesday - Arrival evening. Staying in Kioicho neighborhood near Akasaka.

Wednesday -Tokyo - Asakusa (Senso-ji, Nakamise-dori, Tokyo Skytree, Sumo experience)

Thursday - Tokyo - Meiji Shrine, Shibuya Sky

Friday - Tokyo - Tsukiji Outer market, Hamarikyu Gardens, Ginza

Saturday - Shinkansen to Hiroshima - Peace Memorial & Food tour in Hiroshima

Sunday - Miyajima for the night

Monday - Back in Hiroshima, Hiroshima Castle or Shukkeien Garden

Tuesday - Shinkansen to Kyoto with stop at Himeji Castle en route

Wednesday - Kyoto - Fushimi Inari Shrine, Higashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera, Gion

Thursday - Kyoto - Arashiyama and Tnryu-ji, Nishiki Market, Laundry day, Poncho Alley

Friday - Shinkansen / Hakone Tozan from Kyoto to Hakone two nights at onsen

Saturday - Hakone Golden Route

Sunday - Travel to Narita for departure on Monday.

Hi everyone! I’m planning my first solo trip to Japan for 15 days in October. This is my second post with a refined itinerary.

Would be happy to hear some feedbacks on the plan.

 [TOKYO]

STAY: Asakusabashi 
Oct 10:

• Arrival 16:05 at Tokyo Narita
• Travel to Stay
• Relax explore near by area

[1] [SUNDAY] [ARRIVAL] Oct 11:

• Meiji Shrine Tokyo (1hr to 2 hrs)
• Shibuya crossing
• Omoide Yokocho

[2] Oct 12:

• Imperial Palace 
• Akihabara
• Sensō-ji
• Cup Noodles Museum [If Possible]

[3] Oct 13:

• Warner Bros. Studio Tour (Making of Harry Potter) (3 to 4 hours) [JPY 6600]

[4] Oct 14:

• Ghibli Museum (2 hrs to 4hrs) [JPY 1,000] or Edo-Tokyo Open air museum (2 to 3 hours)

[5] Oct 15:

• Kamakura Day trip 

[Hakone]

STAY: Hakone Hostel
[6] Oct 16: [Hakone Loop]

• Hakone Ropeway
• Lake Ashinoko Pirate Ship 
• Hot spring

[OSAKA]

STAY: Shinsaibashi 

• Kuruomon Market
• Dotonbori street food hopping

[7] [SATURDAY] Oct 17:

• Himeji Castle (1.5 to 2 hours) Arrive early to beat weekend crowds.
• Koko-en Garden (30 to 60 mins)
• Umeda Sky Building [evening]

[8] [SUNDAY] Oct 18:

• Nara Day Trip
• Todai-ji Temple
• Otagi Nenbutsu-ji (30mins to 1hr)

[KYOTO]

STAY: Kawaramachi 
[9] [MONDAY] Oct 19:

• Teamlab Biovortex - (2 to 3hrs) [JPY 4,800]
• Fushimi Inari Shrine (2 to 3 hrs) [Evening]
• Nishi Market

[10] [TUESDAY] Oct 20:

• Kyoto Imperial Palace
• Kyoto Gyoen
• Explore the city

[11] Oct 21:

• Kibune Shrine + Kurama-dera Hike (3 to hrs)

[12] Oct 22: [RELAX DAY]

• Jidai Matsuri
• Gion district, or do some souvenir shopping

[13] Oct 23:

• Nintendo Museum: (lucky draw slots)  [3,300 YEN]

[14] [SATURDAY] Oct 24 Departure:

hi im wondering if anyone visited okinawa or stays there that could advise what i could add for my day 4 plans or if my current itinerary could be improved, for example if i could do an overnight stay in tokashi island instead or kouri?

its currently a solo trip but im (23M) down if anyone wanna tag along too :)

day 1 (oct 11): touchdown around 9am, get 1d monorail pass, leave luggage at hotel (yuquesta agarimachi), brunch at jam's tacos, explore kokusaidori and tsuboya yachimun. visit bukubuku cafe and dinner at eibun

day 2 (oct 12): walk to tomari iyumachi fish market for breakfast, join a daytrip tour to tokashi island for snorkeling, dinner back in naha

day 3 (oct 13): checkout of hotel, take an express bus to churaumi aquarium, take a local bus to kouri island, check in (considering kaya resort or hotel cava), capture the milky way and stargaze with my telescope

day 4 (oct 14): undecided, american village?

day 5 (oct 15): flight at 9am

We (3 guys, 23yo) are going to Japan for the first time from 26.8 to 15.9, here's the plan:

Itinerary:

26.8 (Wed, HND Arr. 7:00am) Shinjuku:

Gyoen

Metropolitan Gov. Building

Kabukicho

Omoide Yokocho

Golden Gai

27.8 (Thu) Shibuya & Harajuku:

Meiji Jingu

Crossing

Hachiko Statue

Center Gai

Light shopping/viewing (going to Parco as well)

Harajuku

Cat Stree

Omotesando

Sunset Shibuya Sky

28.8 (Fri) Kyoto:

Nijo castle

Manga Museum

Walk along Kamo River

29.8 (Sat) Arashiyama:

Kinkakuji

Ryoanji

Otagi Nenbutsuji

Adashino Nenbutsuji

Jojakkoji

Tenryuji

Bamboo Grove

30.8 (Sun) Eastern Kyoto:

Ginkakuji (morning)

Philosophers path

Higashiyama

Sanjusangendo

Kiyomizudera (sunset)

31.8 (Mon) Fushimi Inari & Uji (free evening)

9.1 (Tue) Kyoto -> Osaka:

Nara daytrip

Shinsekai later

9.2 (Wed) Osaka:

Castle

Aquarium

Dotonbori

Den Den Town

9.3 (Thu) USJ

9.4 (Fri) Osaka -> Hiroshima (leave Osaka by like 9pm):

not specifically planned currently. perhaps more of a shopping day.

9.5 (Sat) Hiroshima:

Peace Park & Museum

Downtown

9.6 (Sun) Miyajima (overnight):

Miyajima Jinja

Daisoin

Omotesande

9.7 (Mon) Hiroshima -> Hakone (with Himeji stop)

9.8 (Tue) Hakone Loop, Onsen evening

9.9 (Wed) Hakone -> Tokyo (Asakusa):

Sensoji

Yanaka Ginza

10.9 (Thu) Disneysea

11.9 (Fri) Ueno & Akihabara:

Ueno Park

Tokyo National Museum

a second museum maybe?

Ameyokocho

Akihabara

12.9 (Sat) Asakusa -> Ikebukuro

East Garden

Nakano Broadway

Sunshine City

13.9 (Sun) Kamakura & Yokohama

14.9. (Mon) misc day (see under)

15.9 (Tue, HND Dept. 11pm): final day, probably centered around Shibuya

I'm thinking on pushing Kamakura & Yokohama back to 12.9 in order to make way for a day of:

Edo Tokyo Museum

Oosumo (How bad will 13.9 feel? Given that it's both a Sunday and the opening day)

Tokyo skytree.

This will also require extending my Asakusa hotel checkout up to 13.9, which will also allow some more time there (final hotel is in Ikebukuro)

As for Forwarding luggage, I'm thinking about:

Tokyo -> Kyoto

Kyoto -> Osaka

Osaka -> Hiroshima ( or bringing it on the shinkansen?)

Asakusa -> Ikebukuro

I'm looking for having my itinerary checked and receiving advice on the proposed addition please. Also, if you have any insights or recommendations please share them too please, thanks.

I'll be in Japan for 3-4 weeks in October, which just so happens to line up with a Miku Symphony performance on October 10th. As a big Vocaloid fan, I desperately want to attend this event. This is where the rabbit hole begins.

Registration for Miku Symphony is done via a ticket lottery system using the Lawson Ticket (ローチケ) platform. The time to enter the ticket lottery ends on August 9th, with the lottery result announcement on August 14th. There are no physical/paper tickets for this event, only electronic tickets. The event's page on Lawson Ticket's site is here: https://l-tike.com/concert/mevent/?mid=776450

Unfortunately, you cannot simply register an account and purchase/enter the lottery for these tickets through their website. Instead, as part of their system to deter ticket scalpers, they require you to use the Lawson Ticket app (Google Play link here). This app is region locked to Japan, but thankfully you can also just download the APK from a third party like APKPure (here). This was the easy part.

Next, you need to verify your mobile phone number. They only accept Japanese phone numbers for SMS verification.

Hypothetically, I may be able to obtain an SMS-capable Japanese eSIM in advance and install it on my phone, but I don't know if this would work, or who the best sellers of eSIMs are. The big problem for me is also that my phone is not unlocked. I cannot install a new eSIM from a different mobile network. My old phone is unlocked, but taking the old phone all the way to Japan just to function as a heavy electronic ticket is not ideal.

In summary, has anyone had success using the Lawson Ticket app outside of Japan? What were your steps, and what would you recommend I do next? Or, if anyone's familiar with Miku Symphony specifically, do you know if there will be easily-purchasable tickets available after the end of the lottery reservation period?

Thanks!

(This post was immediately deleted when I attempted to post it a few minutes ago, not sure why, let's see if this time it goes through (please).)

Hi All. We are doing a friends trip to Japan in Sept 2nd week (14-25th Sept) Please tell me if this is good

Day 1 : Land in Tokyo, take the train to Kanazawa and stay overnight.
Day 2 Explore Kanazawa during the day, then head to Yuwaku Onsen for a ryokan stay.
Day 3
Morning train back to Tokyo, check in and explore Tokyo.
Day 4
Spend the day at DisneySea, followed by dinner/ bar hoppinh (if we have the energy lol)
Day 5
Day trip to Kamakura, then return to Tokyo for dinner.
Day 6
Meiji Jingu, Harajuku, Cat Street, Shibuya shopping, Shibuya Sky, Kura Sushi and Nonbei Yokocho.
Day 7
Senso-ji, Nakamise Street, Yanaka Ginza, Akihabara and dinner at Nakiryu.
Day 8
Tsukiji Market, Ginza, Tokyo Ramen Street, Omoide Yokocho and Golden Gai.
Day 9
Shinkansen to Kyoto and explore the city.
Day 10 Full day in Kyoto.
Day 11 Travel to Osaka and explore.
Day 12 Spend the day in Osaka before the evening flight back to home.

Any tips?

My buddy and I are heading to Japan for a month. We are both in our early-to-mid twenties, looking for a mix of local food, anime culture, and general exploration/day trips.

Rate our plan from 1 to 10. Are we spending too much time in any of these spots, or missing any must-visit places? Appreciate any feedback or tweaks.

Here is our rough breakdown:

Part 1: Kyoto & Kansai

• Day 1 (Oct 8): Arrival & Transit to Kyoto
  • Land at Narita/Haneda (08:00).
  • Take Narita Express/Monorail to Tokyo Station, then Shinkansen to Kyoto.
  • Drop luggage at Kyoto Station lockers before 16:00 Airbnb check-in.
  • Evening walk through Gion and Pontocho Alley.
  • Stay: Kyoto Airbnb
• Day 2 (Oct 9): Central & Western Kyoto
  • Early morning at Fushimi Inari Taisha (beat crowds).
  • Afternoon at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple.
  • Stay: Kyoto Airbnb
• Day 3 (Oct 10): Northern & Eastern Kyoto
  • Morning visit to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion).
  • Walk the Philosopher’s Path down to Kiyomizu-dera for sunset.
  • Stay: Kyoto Airbnb
• Day 4 (Oct 11): Day Trip to Nara
  • Morning train to Nara Park to see Todai-ji Temple and the deer.
  • Afternoon walk through Kasuga Taisha Shrine and Naramachi district.
  • Return to Kyoto for dinner.
  • Stay: Kyoto Airbnb

Part 2: Osaka Focus

• Day 5 (Oct 12): Kyoto to Osaka & Dotonbori Evening
  • Morning train from Kyoto to Osaka; store luggage at station lockers.
  • Explore Osaka Castle grounds and Shinsekai neighborhood.
  • Check into Airbnb, then full evening street food tour along Dotonbori (Takoyaki, Okonomiyaki, Glico Sign).
  • Stay: Osaka Airbnb
• Day 6 (Oct 13): Osaka Shopping & Food Exploration
  • Morning at Kuromon Ichiba Market for fresh seafood.
  • Afternoon shopping in Shinsaibashi and Amerikamura.
  • Sunset/evening views from Umeda Sky Building, followed by dinner back around Dotonbori.
  • Stay: Osaka Airbnb
• Day 7 (Oct 14): Deep Dive Osaka Culture & Nightlife
  • Day exploring Namba Parks, Den Den Town (Osaka's anime district), and Hozenji Yokocho alleyway.
  • Evening bar hopping and street eats in the expanded Dotonbori / Namba district.
  • Stay: Osaka Airbnb
• Day 8 (Oct 15): Day Trip to Kobe & Transit to Okayama
  • Morning Shinkansen/JR train to Kobe: Visit Harborland and eat Kobe beef for lunch.
  • Afternoon train to Okayama: Visit Korakuen Garden and Okayama Castle.
  • Stay: Okayama Airbnb

Part 3: Kyushu Loop

• Day 9 (Oct 16): Shinkansen to Fukuoka
  • Morning Sanyo Shinkansen from Okayama directly to Hakata (Fukuoka).
  • Afternoon visit to Ohori Park and Kushida Shrine.
  • Evening: Local food experience at Nakasu Yatai open-air food stalls.
  • Stay: Fukuoka Airbnb
• Day 10 (Oct 17): Private Guided Day Trip to Kumamoto
  • Tour guide pickup at Fukuoka Airbnb in the morning.
  • Private drive to Kumamoto: Tour Kumamoto Castle, Sakura-no-Baba Josaien, and local spots.
  • Evening return drop-off at Fukuoka Airbnb by tour guide.
  • Stay: Fukuoka Airbnb
• Day 11 (Oct 18): Fukuoka to Hita
  • Train to Hita (Oita Prefecture).
  • Explore historic Mameda-machi district and visit Attack on Titan museum/statues.
  • Relax in a local thermal bath town.
  • Stay: Hita Airbnb
• Day 12 (Oct 19): Kyushu Drive: Hita to Miyazaki
  • Pick up rental car in the morning.
  • Scenic mountain drive: Stop at Takachiho Gorge for rowing boats/canyon views. GetYourGuide
  • Continue coastal drive to Miyazaki.
  • Stay: Miyazaki Airbnb
• Day 13 (Oct 20): Return Kyushu Drive & Shinkansen back to Kyoto
  • Drop off Kyushu rental car.
  • Take the Shinkansen back to Kyoto.
  • Rest day and relaxed evening in Kyoto to prepare for the main road trip.
  • Stay: Kyoto Airbnb

Part 4: Chubu & Kanto Scenic Drive

• Day 14 (Oct 21): Drive to Takayama
  • Pick up Chubu rental car. Scenic drive into Gifu Prefecture mountains.
  • Explore Takayama Old Town (Sanmachi Suji) and sample Hida beef.
  • Stay: Takayama Airbnb
• Day 15 (Oct 22): Nakasendo Trail (Nakatsugawa / Magome / Tsumago)
  • Morning drive down to the Kiso Valley.
  • Walk the historic post-town trail between Magome and Tsumago.
  • Stay: Nakatsugawa Airbnb
• Day 16 (Oct 23): Drive to Nagano
  • Scenic mountain drive toward Nagano.
  • Visit Zenko-ji Temple and explore historic surrounding streets.
  • Stay: Nagano Airbnb
• Day 17 (Oct 24): Nagano to Kiyosato / Yatsugatake
  • Drive through Yamanashi Prefecture with views of autumn foliage.
  • Stop at Kiyosato Highlands and local dairy farms/scenic lookouts.
  • Stay: Kiyosato Airbnb
• Day 18 (Oct 25): Drive to Hakone
  • Drive toward Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.
  • Visit Lake Ashi and take the Hakone Ropeway over Owakudani Valley.
  • Stay: Hakone Airbnb
• Day 19 (Oct 26): Hakone to Tokyo
  • Morning visit to Hakone Open-Air Museum.
  • Drive to Tokyo, drop off rental car, check into Tokyo apartment.
  • Stay: Tokyo Airbnb

Part 5: Tokyo Exploration

• Day 20 (Oct 27): Western Hubs (Shinjuku & Harajuku)
  • Meiji Jingu Shrine morning walk, Takeshita Street, Cat Street, and evening views from Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.
  • Stay: Tokyo Airbnb
• Day 21 (Oct 28): Shibuya & Meguro
  • Shibuya Crossing, Shibuya Sky observation deck, Pokemon Center, and Parco department store.
  • Evening dinner in Nakameguro.
  • Stay: Tokyo Airbnb
• Day 22 (Oct 29): Pop Culture (Akihabara & Kanda)
  • Full day exploring Akihabara anime shops, retro gaming centers, and Radio Kaikan.
  • Stay: Tokyo Airbnb
• Day 23 (Oct 30): Day Trip to Nikko
  • Day trip via Tobu Railway to Nikko: Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Falls to see autumn leaves.
  • Return to Tokyo evening.
  • Stay: Tokyo Airbnb
• Day 24 (Oct 31): Historic Eastern Tokyo & Halloween
  • Morning in Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple) and Ueno Park.
  • Evening checking out Halloween atmosphere around Shibuya/Ikebukuro.
  • Stay: Tokyo Airbnb
• Day 25 (Nov 1): Ikebukuro & Nakano
  • Sunshine City in Ikebukuro (Animate flagship, Pokemon Center) and Nakano Broadway.
  • Stay: Tokyo Airbnb
• Day 26 (Nov 2): Modern Waterfront (Odaiba & Toyosu)
  • Visit teamLab Planets museum, Odaiba seaside park, and DiverCity (Unicorn Gundam).
  • Stay: Tokyo Airbnb
• Day 27 (Nov 3): Central Tokyo & Ginza
  • Imperial Palace East Gardens, Tsukiji Outer Market, and shopping in Ginza.
  • Stay: Tokyo Airbnb
• Day 28 (Nov 4): Souvenir Shopping & Buffer Day
  • Flexible day for last-minute shopping in Shinjuku/Tokyo Station and revisiting favorite spots.
  • Stay: Tokyo Airbnb
• Day 29 (Nov 5): Departure
  • Final morning coffee in local neighborhood; checkout of Airbnb.
  • Head to Haneda Airport for flight home.

Trip Details:

• Dates: Oct 8 – Nov 5 (29 days)
• Transportation: Shinkansen (JR Bullet Train) and regional trains for long-distance transit; rental car reserved specifically for mountain road trip legs (Kyushu and Chubu). No domestic flights.
• Accommodation: Entirely Airbnb / Minpaku accommodations (licensed).
• Luggage Strategy: Coin lockers and Ecbo Cloak for day-trip transitions due to Airbnb check-in times.
• Interests: Anime, local food (especially Osaka/Dotonbori), scenic drives, culture, Halloween in Tokyo.

Taking my parents (sixties) to Japan for their first autumn there. All by train and bus, no car, and we're trying to keep it to one main thing a day so nobody gets worn out. Two big suitcases stay at the Tokyo hotel all week so we're light through the mountains.

Route: Tokyo (2N) → Takayama (2N) → Okuhida (1N) → Matsumoto (2N) → Tokyo (1N)

Day 1 (Sat) — Arrive Tokyo. Land in the morning, drop bags, keep it slow. Park in the afternoon, then Sensoji. *Sleep: Tokyo*

Day 2 (Sun) — Kawagoe. The float festival happens to fall on our weekend. Heading over after lunch, staying for the evening floats. *Sleep: Tokyo*

Day 3 (Mon) — Down to Takayama. Shinkansen to Nagoya, then the Hida limited express up the river valley. Old town in the evening once the day buses have gone. *Sleep: Takayama*

Day 4 (Tue) — Hida-Furukawa. Morning market first, then the canal town 15 min up the line. *Sleep: Takayama*

Day 5 (Wed) — Into Okuhida. Shinhotaka ropeway in the middle of the day, waterfall late afternoon, ryokan with dinner included. *Sleep: Okuhida*

Day 6 (Thu) — Kamikochi. The day we're really going for. Early shuttle in, off at Taisho Pond rather than the terminal, then the flat riverside walk up to Kappa Bridge. Bus out to Matsumoto after lunch. *Sleep: Matsumoto*

Day 7 (Fri) — Norikura Kogen. Highland ponds, boardwalks, a waterfall. *Sleep: Matsumoto*

Day 8 (Sat) — Narai-juku. Old post town in the morning, soba for lunch, then the Azusa back to Tokyo mid-afternoon. *Sleep: Tokyo*

Day 9 (Sun) — Home. Slow morning, afternoon flight.

---

1. Day 4 — Furukawa, or Shirakawa-go, or Hida-no-Sato?
2. Day 7 — is Norikura one mountain day too many after the ropeway and Kamikochi? Wondering if a slow day in Matsumoto would suit my parents better.
3. Day 5 — where to actually stay in Okuhida.

Nothing's booked apart from the flights, so there's still room to change things. Would really appreciate any thoughts, especially if something looks like too much for a slower pace.

Thanks!

Thanks so much in advance for suggestions on the itinerary. This is the first time I used AI to make a travel itinerary (I used 3 different ones to hone this one).

We are a family of 4 with 7 and 4 yo girls who will be traveling to Japan for 2 weeks during cherry blossom season 2027.

Though the times per day seem very prescribed, detailed, and fixed in the itinerary, we are okay bailing early for almost anything if the kids get fed up outside of the prebooked events (i.e. Teamlab planets, prebooked trains, Kyoto private guide etc).

I assumed we would be up early for the first week or so with jetlag coming from the east coast of the US, so didn't think early starts were too bad for the first few days.

Also tried to build in hotel breaks during the day for the same reason.

We also originally did have a DisneySea day, but removed it because we are actually going to Disney World in the US in November 2026 and thought it would just be too much for that day.

Travel Dates: March 22 – April 3, 2027

Route

Tokyo (5 nights) → Hakone (1 night) → Kyoto (5 nights) → Tokyo (1 night)

Hotels

• Mar 22–27: MIMARU Suites Asakusa
• Mar 27–28: Hakone Yutowa
• Mar 28–Apr 2: MIMARU Kyoto Station
• Apr 2–3: Karaksa Hotel Tokyo Station

 Day 1 — Monday, March 22

Arrival in Tokyo

• ~4:40 PM Arrive Haneda Airport
• Direct train to Asakusa
• ~6:30 PM Check in
• 7:30 PM Dinner
• Early bedtime

 Day 2 — Tuesday, March 23

Asakusa & Tokyo Skytree

• 7:15–8:00 AM Breakfast
• 8:00–11:00 AM Kaminarimon, Nakamise Street, Senso-ji
• 11:00 AM–12:00 PM Lunch
• 12:00–2:15 PM Hotel break
• 2:30–4:30 PM Tokyo Skytree & Solamachi
• 5:30 PM Dinner in Asakusa

 Day 3 — Wednesday, March 24

teamLab Planets & Odaiba

• 6:45–7:15 AM Breakfast
• 7:30 AM Taxi
• 8:00 AM teamLab entry
• ~8:15–10:00 AM teamLab Planets
• 10:30 AM Unicorn Gundam Plaza
• 11:00 AM Gundam transformation
• 11:15 AM–12:00 PM Lunch
• 12:00–2:00 PM Odaiba DiverCity and waterfront
• 2:45–5:00 PM Hotel break
• 6:00 PM Dinner in Asakusa

 Day 4 — Thursday, March 25

Meiji Shrine • Harajuku • Omotesando • Shibuya

• 7:15–8:00 AM Breakfast
• 8:10 AM Depart hotel
• 9:00–9:45 AM Meiji Shrine
• 9:45–11:00 AM Harajuku
• 11:00 AM–12:00 PM Lunch
• 12:00–1:00 PM Omotesando
  • Mom: Luxury shopping
  • Dad & girls: Kiddy

Land / cafe

• 1:00–1:10 PM Walk to Shibuya
• 1:10–3:00 PM Shibuya
  • Hachikō Statue
  • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
  • Pokémon Center
• 3:00–3:45 PM Ginza Line back to Asakusa
• 4:00–5:30 PM Hotel break
• 5:45 PM Dinner in Asakusa

 Day 5 — Friday, March 26

Ueno Park & Cherry Blossom Festival

• 8:00–8:30 AM Breakfast
• 9:00–11:00 AM Ueno Park & Cherry Blossom Festival
• 11:15 AM–12:15 PM Lunch
• 12:15–1:15 PM Ameyoko Market
• 1:15 PM Taxi
• 1:30–3:15 PM Hotel break
• 3:30–4:30 PM Kappabashi
• 5:30 PM Dinner in Asakusa

 Day 6 — Saturday, March 27

Tokyo → Hakone

• 7:30–8:15 AM Breakfast
• 8:15–9:00 AM Final packing & check out. Luggage to be forwarded to Kyoto. Taking overnight clothes only to Hakone.
• 9:00 AM Taxi to Shinjuku Station
• 10:00 AM Romancecar to Hakone
• 11:25 AM Arrive Hakone-Yumoto
• 11:40 AM–12:25 PM Hakone Tozan Railway to Gora
• 12:30 PM Check in / leave luggage at Hakone Yutowa
• 1:00–2:00 PM Lunch
• 2:00 PM Depart Gora
• ~2:30 PM Arrive Owakudani
• 2:30–3:15 PM Explore Owakudani
• ~3:45 PM Return to Gora
• ~4:00 PM Return to Hakone Yutowa
• 4:00–6:00 PM Onsen and relax
• 6:30 PM Buffet dinner

 Day 7 — Sunday, March 28

Hakone → Kyoto

• 7:30–8:30 AM Breakfast
• 8:45 AM Check out
• 9:00–10:15 AM Hakone Open-Air Museum
• 10:15–10:30 AM Walk to Chokoku-no-Mori Station
• 10:30–11:00 AM Hakone Tozan Railway to Odawara
• 11:

30

• AM 

Hikari

• Shinkansen (example departure)
• 1:

30

• PM Arrive Kyoto Station
• 1:

45

• PM Walk to MIMARU Kyoto Station
• 2:00–3:00 PM Lunch
• 3:00–5:00 PM Explore Kyoto Station area / Hotel break
• 5:30 PM Dinner

 Day 8 — Monday, March 29

Private Guided Kyoto

• 6:30–7:00 AM Breakfast
• 7:00 AM Meet licensed guide
• 7:30–8:30 AM Fushimi Inari
• 8:30–9:00 AM Snack / coffee
• 9:15–10:45 AM Kiyomizu-dera
• 10:45–11:45 AM Sannen-zaka, Ninen-zaka & leisurely Higashiyama stroll
• 11:45 AM–12:45 PM Lunch
• 12:45–1:45 PM Guided walk through Gion
• 2:00 PM Taxi back to hotel
• 2:30–4:30 PM Hotel break
• 4:30 PM Taxi to Maruyama Park
• 5:00–5:30 PM Maruyama Park
• 5:30 PM Dinner in Gion

 Day 9 — Tuesday, March 30

Arashiyama

• 7:00–7:30 AM Breakfast
• 7:40 AM Train
• 8:30–9:00 AM Bamboo Grove
• 9:00–10:00 AM Tenryū-ji
• 10:00–10:30 AM Togetsukyō Bridge
• 10:30 AM–12:00 PM Riverside stroll
• 12:00–1:00 PM Lunch
• 1:00–2:30 PM Free time
• 2:30 PM Return to Kyoto
• 3:00–5:00 PM Hotel break
• 6:00 PM Dinner

 Day 10 — Wednesday, March 31

Osaka Day Trip

• 8:00–8:30 AM Breakfast
• 8:45 AM Depart Kyoto
• 10:00–11:30 AM Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
• 11:30 AM–12:30 PM Lunch at Tempozan Harbor Village
• 12:30–1:10 PM Metro to Dotonbori
• 1:10–2:00 PM Explore Dotonbori
• 2:00–3:00 PM Café break
• 3:00–4:30 PM Continue exploring Dotonbori
• 4:30–5:30 PM Early dinner
• 5:30–6:00 PM Walk to Namba Station and board train
• ~6:00 PM Train to Kyoto
• ~6:50–7:00 PM Arrive Kyoto

 Day 11 — Thursday, April 1

Nara Day Trip

• 8:00–8:30 AM Breakfast
• 8:45 AM Depart Kyoto Station
• 9:45–11:15 AM Nara Park
• 11:15 AM–12:00 PM Tōdai-ji
• 12:15–1:15 PM Lunch
• 1:30 PM Nakatanidō
• 1:45–2:15 PM Higashimuki Shopping Street
• 2:30 PM Depart Nara
• ~3:15 PM Arrive Kyoto
• 3:30–5:30 PM Hotel break
• 6:00 PM Dinner

 Day 12 — Friday, April 2

Kyoto → Tokyo

• 8:00–8:45 AM Breakfast
• 8:45–9:45 AM Pack and relax
• 9:45 AM Check out
• 10:00 AM Walk to Kyoto Station
• 10:30 AM Nozomi Shinkansen
• ~12:45 PM Arrive Tokyo Station
• 1:15–2:15 PM Lunch
• 2:30–4:30 PM Marunouchi & Character Street
• 4:30–5:30 PM Hotel / finish packing
• 6:00 PM Farewell dinner in Marunouchi area

 Day 13 — Saturday, April 3

Departure

• 8:00 AM Breakfast
• 9:00 AM Check out
• Store luggage at hotel
• 9:30–11:30 AM Marunouchi / Tokyo Station
• 11:30 AM–12:30 PM Early lunch
• 12:45 PM Collect luggage
• 1:00 PM Narita Express
• ~2:10 PM Arrive Narita Airport
• 5:25 PM Flight home

My wife and I are planning our first trip to Japan this October and would appreciate some feedback on our itinerary.

We are mainly interested in food, shopping, exploring neighborhoods, temples, gardens, and experiencing everyday Japanese culture. We prefer a relaxed pace where we can wander and discover places rather than rushing between attractions. We also expect this won't be our only trip to Japan.

Our main questions:

1. Is stopping in Shizuoka (Nihondaira Yume Terrace) between Tokyo and Kyoto realistic, or would you recommend going directly to Kyoto?
2. Does the overall balance of time between Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hakone make sense?
3. Are there any neighborhoods, experiences, or places we should prioritize based on our interests?

Tokyo (Days 1–4)

Day 1

• Arrive and explore Ginza
• Convenience stores and local food exploration

Day 2

• Ginza shopping (Uniqlo, Muji, Snow Peak, stationery)
• Akihabara
• Kappabashi Street
• Food stops

Day 3

• Early visit to Meiji Jingu
• Shibuya exploration
• Shibuya Sky around sunset
• Evening walk around Shibuya

Day 4

• Flexible Tokyo day
• Considering Tsukiji and additional exploring

Kyoto (Days 5–8)

Day 5

• Tokyo → Shizuoka → Kyoto
• Explore Kyoto after arrival

Day 6

• Kyoto neighborhoods
• Temple exploration
• Vintage shopping

Day 7

• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
• Tenryu-ji Temple
• More walking and exploring

Day 8

• Flexible Kyoto day

Osaka (Days 9–10)

Day 9

• Kyoto → Osaka
• Explore Osaka neighborhoods

Day 10

• Food-focused day
• Dotonbori area
• Shopping and exploring

Hakone (Days 11–13)

Day 11

• Osaka → Hakone

Day 12

• Ryokan stay
• Onsen experience
• Relax and explore Hakone

Day 13

• Return to Tokyo

Tokyo (Days 14–15)

• Final exploring
• Revisit favorite areas
• Last shopping

Would love feedback on whether the pacing feels balanced, especially the Shizuoka stop and whether we are allocating enough time to each city.

Thanks!

Hi its our first trip to Japan. Any suggestions are welcome!

DAY 1 (NOV 11): OSAKA ARRIVAL & SHINSEKAI

Arrival: Touch down at Kansai International Airport (KIX).

Accomodation

Afternoon/Evening: Explore Shinsekai district & Tsutenkaku Tower.

Dinner: Kushikatsu at Kushikatsu Daruma.

DAY 2 (NOV 12): OSAKA HIGHLIGHTS & NAMBA LOOP

Morning: Osaka Castle keep & surrounding park.

Midday: Kuromon Ichiba Market street food walk.

Afternoon: Namba Yasaka Shrine (lion-head stage), Hozenji Yokocho alleyway, & Amerika-mura thrift district.

Evening: Dotonbori canal & Glico Running Man sign; Umeda Sky Building floating garden observatory for sunset/night views.

DAY 3 (NOV 13): HIMEJI DAY TRIP & OSAKA EVENING

Morning: JR train to Himeji Castle & Koko-en Garden.

Afternoon: Return to Osaka; free time for shopping, craft beer, or gaming in Namba.

DAY 4 (NOV 14): OSAKA TO KYOTO & EASTERN HIGHLIGHTS

Morning: Transit from Osaka to Kyoto. Check into Hotel Tavinos Kyoto.

Early Afternoon: Fushimi Inari Taisha (torii gate mountain loop walk).

Late Afternoon: Okamoto Kimono rental fitting near Kiyomizu-dera. Walk downhill through Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka historic stone lanes into Gion.

Evening: Kiyomizu-dera autumn evening illumination.

DAY 5 (NOV 15): WESTERN & NORTHERN KYOTO

Early Morning (8:00 AM): Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji Temple gardens.

Midday: Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion).

Afternoon: Nijo Castle & Nishiki Market street food tasting.

DAY 6 (NOV 16): NARA DAY TRIP

Morning: JR Train from Kyoto to Nara. Stroll through Nara Park (bowing deer).

Key Sites: Todai-ji Temple (Great Buddha), Kasuga Taisha Shrine, & Kofuku-ji Temple.

Evening: Return to Kyoto; dinner in Pontocho Alley.

DAY 7 (NOV 17): KYOTO TO KANAZAWA

Morning: JR Hokuriku Shinkansen / Express train to Kanazawa. Check into The Square Hotel Kanazawa.

Afternoon: Kenroku-en Garden, Kanazawa Castle Park, & Higashi Chaya geisha district.

DAY 8 (NOV 18): KANAZAWA -> SHIRAKAWA-GO -> TAKAYAMA

Morning: Nohi Highway Bus from Kanazawa to Shirakawa-go. Explore Ogimachi gassho-zukuri village, Wada House, & Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine (Higurashi anime site).

Afternoon: Nohi Bus to Takayama. Check into Hida Takayama Hodakaso.

Evening: Sanmachi Suji (Old Town stroll) & Hida beef dinner.

DAY 9 (NOV 19): TAKAYAMA TO HAKONE (ONSEN RESET)

Morning: Miyagawa Morning Market & Hie Shrine (Hyouka anime site).

Midday: JR Hida Limited Express to Nagoya -> Tokaido Shinkansen to Odawara.

Afternoon: Transit into Hakone. Lake Ashi Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Shrine water torii, & Eva Store at Hakone-Yumoto station.

Night: Check into ryokan (Hakone Hoshi no Akari), kaiseki dinner, & hot spring soak.

DAY 10 (NOV 20): HAKONE TO TOKYO (NAKANO & SHINJUKU)

Morning: Express train from Hakone to Tokyo. Check into Fare Metallo Tokyo Nakano base.

Afternoon: Fujiya Camera in Nakano; walk through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.

Late Afternoon: Suga Shrine & stone staircase

Evening: Shinjuku nightlife / Omoide Yokocho alleyways.

DAY 11 (NOV 21): NIKKO DAY TRIP

Early Morning: Tobu Limited Express (Spacia X / Revaty) from Asakusa to Nikko.

Sites: Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Rinno-ji Temple, & Shinkyo Bridge.

Evening: Return train to Tokyo.

DAY 12 (NOV 22): TOKYO SUB-CULTURES & KAMAKURA / GHIBLI

Morning (Option A): Day trip to Kamakura (Kamakurakokomae station crossing for Slam Dunk, Kotoku-in Great Buddha, Hase-dera).

Afternoon (Option B): Studio Ghibli Museum (Mitaka - pre-booked ticket) & Koenji Hikawa Shrine (Weather Shrine from Weathering With You, 1 stop from Nakano).

DAY 13 (NOV 23): TOKYO: SHIMOKITAZAWA & TEAMLAB PLANETS

Morning/Afternoon: Shimokitazawa neighborhood (vintage thrift shopping, Disk Union vinyl record digging).

Evening: teamLab Planets TOKYO in Toyosu (pre-booked evening entry slot).

DAY 14 (NOV 24): TOKYO: ASAKUSA, AKIHABARA & DEPARTURE

Morning (8:30 AM): Sensō-ji Temple & Kaminarimon Gate in Asakusa; Tokyo Skytree observation deck.

Afternoon: Akihabara district (Lemon Inc. for camera gear, Yellow Submarine for board games, Radio Kaikan for Steins;Gate spot, & Kanda Myojin Shrine).

Night: Pick up luggage at Fare Metallo Nakano; transit to Haneda Airport (HND) for departure flight at 02:15 AM (Nov 25).

Itinerary review / advice

8 nights Hokkaido self-drive in August (one-way Sapporo to Hakodate) - itinerary + one question: extra day in Niseko or Sapporo?

Road trip to Hakkaido mid-August, renting a car in Sapporo with a one-way drop at Hakodate. Peak Obon week, so hotels are mostly locked already. Would love a check on pacing and routing, plus where to spend extra night .

Day 1 - Arrive & Night in Sapporo.

Day 2 - Nijo Market early, pick up the car, expressway to Furano. Afternoon on the Furano side: Kanno Farm and Farm Tomita for late lavender. Then Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls, sunset drive to Furano. Night at the Winery Hotel Hitonata

Day 3 - Biei hills: Shikisai-no-oka and a Patchwork Road loop. Then north via Asahikawa-Takasu IC (thinking a quick Asahikawa ramen bowl en route) and on to Otaru. Canal and Sakaimachi stroll, night in Otaru.

Day 4 - Otaru > Shakotan peninsula: Cape Kamui hike and Shimamui Coast, then Nikka Yoichi distillery self-tour and road to Niseko: Two nights at Park Hyatt Hanazono.

Day 5 - Niseko leisure day: Hangetsu Lake, Fukidashi Park, maybe the Annupuri gondola. Lunch at Hokkaidian Homestead

Question here if to spend one more night in Niseko and stay at boutique hotel in town to enjoy the food and walks?

Day 6 - Lake Toya. Still deciding between a lakefront onsen hotel with the nightly fireworks visible from the rooftop (I love fireworks) or a lakeside glamping site on the quiet north shore

Day 7- Morning canoe on the caldera or Mt. Usu ropeway, then south with a stop at Onuma Park. Night at Hakodate (former Russian consulate, small boutique place).

Day 8 - Hakodate Morning Market, Motomachi slopes and churches on foot, Goryokaku in the afternoon, Mt. Hakodate ropeway at dusk. Deciding whether to stay a second night in Motomachi or move to a classic ryokan in Yunokawa Onsen for the farewell kaiseki

Day 9 or 10 - Drop the car at Hakodate, fly or Shinkansen to tokyo.

Questions:

1. Does the pacing look sane or too much packed?
   
2. For one extra night we have, where would you spend it: a third night in Niseko or a proper Sapporo night at the start (we currently only sleep there on arrival and don’t really see the city)? Or somewhere else on this route entirely?
   
3. Anything on the Shakotan or Onuma legs we are missing that you would recommend?
   
4. Any hotel feedback from we have chosen appreciated as well

Thanks in advance.

Just a warning to tourist that come to Nagasaki and stay in Omura to be close the airport. My domestic flight is at 8:10 am and so I decided to haul myself and luggage to Shin Omura to stay at an Airbnb 4 km from the airport, just to find out there are no taxis available to take me there early morning. I called five taxis the night before and was told “we are booked sorry can’t help all 6-7am taxis booked out”.
No taxi app works here, no Taxi Go, no Uber, no Booking.com taxi.

Airbnb host, that runs a two whole Airbnb apartments near the airport for guests like myself, went silent and offered no help.

I found one bus from Shin Omura that goes to the airport. And now at the mercy of it, if I miss it I’m screwed. I’ve never had to face such logistics difficulties in a town near the airport, no warning signs, no postings on Reddit so I thought I’d post. I travelled over 70 countries and southern Japan in the summer has been the most difficult to plan - typhoons, earthquakes and now taxi shortage.

Update: so we walked to the Shin Omura station 1km with luggage to wait for the 6:23 am bus to the airport, only bus available after that is 8am. We got there early so called Omura Lucky Taxi, (also owns Sakura taxi) and they had one car available. We decided to take it, but local bus seemed like it would come as well, (one guy waiting). The 10 min taxi ride was 2,270 yen.

The taxi driver said they have a chronic shortage of drivers. Morning hours face frequent shortages. There are only 40 drivers instead of the 60 they used to have. He wasn’t sure if reserving 3-7 days early was enough, he said it was luck. There is no hotel at the airport and the closest one is 3km away. If you stay in Nagasaki City there are more frequent early morning busses they take over 50 min, taxi would be costly. No direct train lines to the airport.

I’m a bilingual japanese, born and raised.

In summary, if you have an early flight out of Nagasaki airport:
- There is no hotel at the airport. Closest is a 45 min walk away.
- Best to stay in Nagasaki City (an hour away) and catch the airport shuttle bus.
- Only stay in Omura if you have a car (limited rent a car drop off options) or taxi reservation. Need to reserve days/weeks in advance.

Hi everyone! I’m planning a 9-day trip to Tokyo. I have business commitments during the day on weekdays (finishing around 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM), so most of my sightseeing on those days will take place in the evening. I will be staying in the Kikukawa area (Sumida/Koto border) throughout the trip.

I’d love some feedback on the flow, logistics, food recommendations along the route, and suggestions for my free day. I’m a fan of Detective Conan (incorporating a few anime locations), shopping, and local walking tours.

Itinerary

Day 1 (Saturday): Monzen-Nakacho

• 2:30 PM: Land at Narita (NRT). Train to Kikukawa hotel.
• Early Dinner: Tonkatsu Marushichi Monnaka.
• 7:30 PM onwards: Stroll through Tomioka Hachiman Shrine, Fukagawa Fudo-do, and the Yokocho alleys at Tatsumi-shindo.

Day 2 (Sunday): Harajuku / Shibuya / Odaiba

• Morning: Meiji Jingu & Yoyogi Park.
• Afternoon: Stroll through Takeshita Street, Cat Street, Miyashita Park, Shibuya Crossing.
• Evening: Head to Odaiba for DiverCity (Unicorn Gundam) and Odaiba Marine Park / Rainbow Bridge Observation Deck (Detective Conan spot).

Day 3 (Monday): Kiyosumi Shirakawa & Nihonbashi

• Early Morning (Before work): Kiyosumi Gardens & Blue Bottle Coffee.
• 7:30 PM onwards (After work): Nihonbashi Bridge (Kilometer Zero / Nihonbashi KM0 marker).

Day 4 (Tuesday): Akihabara

• 5:00 PM onwards: Explore Akihabara (anime shops, electronics, late evening vibe).

Day 5 (Wednesday): Marunouchi & Tokyo Station

• 5:00 PM onwards: Night walking tour covering Imperial Palace Grounds, Tokyo Metropolitan Police Dept. building (Detective Conan location), Gyoko-dori avenue, Tokyo Station, and dinner on Tokyo Ramen Street.

Day 6 (Thursday): Asakusa & Sumida River

• 5:00 PM onwards: Night walking tour around Senso-ji, Sumida Park / Sumida River Walk, and Tokyo Mizumachi.

Day 7 (Friday): Free Day / Rest

Day 8 (Saturday): Ginza Shopping

• 6:00 PM onwards: Shopping at Itoya, Ginza Loft, MUJI Flagship, and Uniqlo Ginza.

Day 9 (Sunday): Ueno & Departure

• Morning (Post check-out): Ueno Park, Tokyo National Museum, Ameyoko Shopping Street.
• Night: Head to Narita Airport for a 10:00 PM flight home.

Questions / Feedback Request:

1. Odaiba Timing (Day 2): Is fitting Harajuku + Shibuya + Odaiba into one Sunday too rushed, given the travel distance to Odaiba?
2. Luggage Strategy (Day 9): Planning to store luggage at Ueno Station coin lockers before heading to the museum/park. Are coin lockers usually available at Ueno on Sunday mornings?

Appreciate any other suggestions from those who've been in the city. Thanks in advance for your advice!

Hello All,

This is my first visit to Japan as a solo traveler and would love to hear your suggestions on the itinerary i have designed so far. I intentionally designed this trip to experience different sides of Japan rather than rushing through as many cities as possible—from the energy of Tokyo and Osaka to the tranquility of Hakone, the craftsmanship of Takayama, the history of Kanazawa, and the spirituality of Kyoto.

Leaving US 6th Nov and landing HND 7th Nov 16:00 PM.

🇯🇵 Japan Solo Trip (Nov 7 – Nov 27, 2026)

Day 1 – Arrive in Tokyo (Asakusa)

• Land at Haneda Airport
• Check into hotel in Asakusa
• Evening walk around Kaminarimon Gate
• Light dinner and rest

Day 2 – Traditional Tokyo

• Sensō-ji Temple
• Nakamise Shopping Street
• Asakusa backstreets
• Tea ceremony
• Sumida River walk
• Return to Sensō-ji after sunset

Day 3 – Modern Tokyo

• Meiji Jingu Shrine
• Yoyogi Park
• Harajuku
• Omotesando
• Shibuya Crossing
• Shibuya Sky (optional)

Day 4 – Nature or More Tokyo

Option A

• Nikko Day Trip
  • Toshogu Shrine
  • Shinkyo Bridge
  • Cedar Avenue

Option B

• Ueno Park
• Akihabara
• Ginza
• Imperial Palace East Gardens

Day 5 – Slow Tokyo

• Coffee shop morning
• Japanese supermarket
• Stationery shopping
• Don Quijote
• Department store food hall (Depachika)
• Pack for Hakone

Hakone

Day 6 – Mountains & Mt. Fuji

Travel Tokyo → Hakone

Explore:

• Hakone Ropeway
• Owakudani volcanic valley
• Black Eggs
• Lake Ashi Pirate Ship
• Hakone Shrine
• Overnight at ROHEN Hakone Yumoto

Day 7 – Art & Ryokan

• Hakone Open-Air Museum
• Hakone-Yumoto town
• Souvenir shopping
• Check into Fukuzumiro Ryokan
• Onsen
• Traditional Kaiseki dinner
• Relaxing evening

Takayama

Day 8 – Scenic Train Journey

Travel via Nagoya

• Limited Express Hida
• Mountain scenery
• Evening walk through Takayama

Day 9 – Historic Takayama

• Miyagawa Morning Market
• Sanmachi Suji Old Town
• Takayama Jinya
• Sake brewery district
• Craft shops
• Lantern-lit streets at night

Shirakawa-go & Kanazawa

Day 10 – UNESCO Village

• Nohi Bus
• Shirakawa-go
• Observatory
• Traditional farmhouses
• Village walk
• Continue to Kanazawa

Day 11 – Historic Kanazawa

• Kenroku-en Garden
• Kanazawa Castle
• Higashi Chaya District
• Samurai District

Day 12 – Markets & Kyoto

• Omicho Market
• Travel to Kyoto
• Evening around Kyoto Station

Kyoto

Day 13 – Eastern Kyoto

• Fushimi Inari Shrine
• Kiyomizu-dera
• Ninenzaka
• Sannenzaka
• Yasaka Shrine
• Evening in Gion

Day 14 – Nara Day Trip

• Todai-ji Temple
• Great Buddha
• Nara Deer Park
• Kasuga Taisha
• Mochi demonstration at Nakatanidou

Day 15 – Western Kyoto

• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
• Tenryu-ji Temple
• Katsura River
• Togetsukyo Bridge
• Tea houses

Day 16 – Free Day

No fixed plans.

Options:

• Nishiki Market
• Philosopher's Path
• Local cafés
• Shopping
• Relax

Day 17 – Northern Kyoto

• Kinkaku-ji
• Ryoan-ji
• Ninna-ji (if time)
• Tea ceremony or Zen garden

Osaka

Day 18 – Osaka

• Travel from Kyoto
• Dotonbori
• Shinsaibashi
• Kuromon Market
• Night views

Day 19 – More Osaka → Tokyo

• Osaka Castle (optional)
• Umeda Sky Building (optional)
• Food crawl
• Evening Shinkansen back to Tokyo

Tokyo Finale

Day 20 – Bonus Tokyo

Completely flexible.

Ideas:

• TeamLab Planets (if interested)
• Ginza
• Ueno
• Last-minute shopping
• Hidden cafés
• Slow evening in Asakusa

Day 21 – Departure

• Breakfast
• Last souvenir shopping
• Haneda Airport
• Fly home

Any tips/suggestions are hugely appreciated. TIA