Budget pour quinze jours au Japon: billets d'avion et hébergement?
by Rikola
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
bonsoir,
nous partons pour 15 jours au japon ; on sera 4 et je cherche ce qui est le mieux!!
côté billet j'ai noté "aeroflot" pas cher mais est ce fiable?????si il y a mieux merci de me le dire
la galère pour l'hebergement
j'ai pensé aux auberges de jeunesse, quelqu'un a un avis dessus??
sur le forum j'ai lu les Ryokan, toutefois on est 4 cela risque de revenir cher, non?
j'ai lu aussi "les new koyo" qui peut m'en dire un peu plus et si c'est interressant pour 4
je prendrai le JR car je compte aller à Kyoto, côté hebergement j'attends vos info!!
En fin, qui peut me dire si on peut aller de Kyoto à Hiroshima??? la durée??
on partira du 23.07 au 07.08
Merci pour toutes les infos
salut,
commence a étudier ceci pour les JR http://www.japanrail.com/index.html
Tokyo, Shin Osaka, Hiroshima, Hakata est la ligne du Tokaido et Sanyo Shinkansen. Une des lignes de train les plus célèbre au monde.
Le trajet Kyoto - Shin Osaka - Hiroshima (pas en Nozomi puisque JR Pass) prends 2h12
commence a étudier ceci pour les JR http://www.japanrail.com/index.html
Tokyo, Shin Osaka, Hiroshima, Hakata est la ligne du Tokaido et Sanyo Shinkansen. Une des lignes de train les plus célèbre au monde.
Le trajet Kyoto - Shin Osaka - Hiroshima (pas en Nozomi puisque JR Pass) prends 2h12
Eric Binamé, Densha Otaku
- --
http://www.train-tram.be
http://www.train-tram.be/japon
On m'a toujours déconseillé Aeroflot à cause du manque de sûreté, mais si ces stats sont exactes ( http://www.airfleets.net/crash/stat_airline.htm ) il semblerait que ce soit plus sûr qu'Air France! Bizarre ...
... côté billet j'ai noté "aeroflot" pas cher mais est ce fiable?????...
... côté billet j'ai noté "aeroflot" pas cher mais est ce fiable?????...
Rech. filles pour randos VTT/VTC! :)
Salut, 🙂
Si tu passe par tokyo et kyoto va voir :
http://kshouse.jp/index_e.html
Bon prix, propre et bonne humeur garantie ^^ Chambre pour 4 ou pour couple sans problème.
Le shinkansen fait le trajet Hiroshima/kyoto va sur :
http://grace.hyperdia.com/cgi-english/hyperWeb.cgi
Tu y trouvera horaire et tarif
Bonne recherche ^^
www.uneviedesvoyages.fr
Un site sans prétention ayant un seul but : partager notre expérience 😉
Un site sans prétention ayant un seul but : partager notre expérience 😉
bonjour,
merci pour les infos je vais aller sur le site
sais tu si faire Nikko dans la journée c'est réalisable?? on rentre à Tokyo pour dormir et le lendemain faire Kamakkura???
on aimerait aussi aller au fudji mais là aussi est possible en 1 journée ou doit on dormir sur place une nuit???
merci
RE🙂
Pour Nikko et Kamakura, ce sont des excursions tout à fait réalisable en 1 journée chacunes.
En plus si tu as le JRPass, il n'y a pas lieu de se prendre la tête...Pourquoi s'embêter à retransporter ces affaires, rechercher de nouveau un lieu pour la nuit sympa....c'est une perte de temps surtout que tu ne pars que 15 jours...il faut optimiser !! 😉
Pour Fuji-San, sache que la période "officiel" pour le gravir est de mai à octobre (grosso modo...valider exactement les dates...marquer dans tout les bons guides sur le Japon), donc si j'ai bien compris c'est un peu "chaud " de tenter l'expérience en dehors, ne pas oublier qu'il culmine quand même à plus de 3000 mètres, c'est pas rien niveau condition.
Une chose est sûre, il existe des bus réguliers à bon prix entre la Gare de Shinjuku (gare à confirmer) et les départs de l'ascension du Mont......
Réfléchi donc sur tout ça....peut être devrais-tu te limiter à la visite d'Hakkone où il est possible d'avoir une vue superbe tout de même de ce superbe site.
Pour la distance en Tokyo et Kyoto, je t'ai donner le site indiquant les horaires et temps de trajets dans mon mail précédent.
Pour ton billet d'avion, 800 euros en vol direct est un bon prix, pour confirmation regarde aussi sur JAL.
😛
www.uneviedesvoyages.fr
Un site sans prétention ayant un seul but : partager notre expérience 😉
Un site sans prétention ayant un seul but : partager notre expérience 😉
😊
bonsoir,
je crois que nous allons suivre ton conseil!!!
regarder le mont.... et ce dire que l'on reviendra une prochaine fois!!!
peux tu me donner des info sur les quartiers un peu branchés de tokyo ( pour mes deux ado de 18 et 20!!!)
sais tu aussi ou je peux trouver un Takana????
merci
Je me demande si tu as lu ce que j'ai écrit et si tu as lu les conditions d'utilisation du Railpass.
PAS de Nozomi avec un Rail Pass. Il reste les Hikari et les Kodama (plus lent). Il n'est pas obligatoire de réserver, mais comme avec un JR Pass, la réservation est gratuite, ce serait bête de s'en priver.
j'ai vu trajet en Shinkasen Nosomi??? on peut le prendre avec nos pass???
PAS de Nozomi avec un Rail Pass. Il reste les Hikari et les Kodama (plus lent). Il n'est pas obligatoire de réserver, mais comme avec un JR Pass, la réservation est gratuite, ce serait bête de s'en priver.
j'ai vu trajet en Shinkasen Nosomi??? on peut le prendre avec nos pass???
Eric Binamé, Densha Otaku
- --
http://www.train-tram.be
http://www.train-tram.be/japon
😄
bonsoir,
effectivement j'avais mal lu!!! maintenant j'ai compris et j'ai trouvé les bons horaires
je cherche un hebergement sur hiroshima : as tu quelque chose??
qu'est ce qui est le plus pratique pour le metro: une carte ou le tiket?
avec le JR peut on utiliser les bus de Tokyo? ceux de Kyoto?
j'aurai sans doute d'autres questions ..
merci
c'est normal, il n'est possible que de réserver 3 mois avant, pour juillet, cela devrait être possible début mars mais tu peux jetter un coup d'oeil en février des fois que...😉
www.uneviedesvoyages.fr
Un site sans prétention ayant un seul but : partager notre expérience 😉
Un site sans prétention ayant un seul but : partager notre expérience 😉
Les seuls bus qui acceptent le JR Pass sont écrit dans le réglement du JR Pass. Donc, si on ne dis pas que tu peux le prendre avec un JR Pass, tu dois prendre un billet comme tout le monde. Les bus, tram, métro, bateau, monorail, funiculaires et tous les trains des compagnies privées de tout le japon ne sont pas dans le Railpass.
Tokyo et Kyoto n'échapent pas à la règle. Le JR Pass donne accès aux lignes JR.
Pour la question "carte ou billet", il faut simplement calculer le seuil de rentabilité. A Hiroshima, par exemple, un voyage en tram coute 150JPY (270 vers Miyajima), et une carte d'un jour fait 600JPY. Simple calcul.
qu'est ce qui est le plus pratique pour le metro: une carte ou le tiket? avec le JR peut on utiliser les bus de Tokyo? ceux de Kyoto? j'aurai sans doute d'autres questions .. merci
Pour la question "carte ou billet", il faut simplement calculer le seuil de rentabilité. A Hiroshima, par exemple, un voyage en tram coute 150JPY (270 vers Miyajima), et une carte d'un jour fait 600JPY. Simple calcul.
qu'est ce qui est le plus pratique pour le metro: une carte ou le tiket? avec le JR peut on utiliser les bus de Tokyo? ceux de Kyoto? j'aurai sans doute d'autres questions .. merci
Eric Binamé, Densha Otaku
- --
http://www.train-tram.be
http://www.train-tram.be/japon
bonjour😄,
merci pour l'info nous ferons le calcul!
as tu une idée des distance entre chaque quartier par exple : de Ueno et aller à Ginza ou de Ginza pour aller à Harajuku, , ,
doit on tjrs prendre le métro???
je ne rends pas compte des distances est ce a peu près la même chose qu'a NY ( je n'ai pas pris le métro, nous avons tout fait à pied par exple : Center parc sud vers les "tours (qui n'existent plus)"
toujours merci pour l'info
Attention, dans la chasse aux prix, qu'il n'y ait pas de problème à venir avec Alitalia...compte tenu de la potentielle acquisition de la compagnie par AF et du changement de gouvernement en cours.
Nous serons à Hiroshima fin mars et avons réservé à l'hôtel Granvia, directement sur le site JR et non pas par une agence. Notre vol sera Nice Amsterdam Osaka avec KLM (skyteam = points sur la carte de fidélité) et Tokyo Paris Nice avec Japan Airlines (vol AF opéré par) (idem pour les points) 1650 euros pour deux.
Nous serons à Hiroshima fin mars et avons réservé à l'hôtel Granvia, directement sur le site JR et non pas par une agence. Notre vol sera Nice Amsterdam Osaka avec KLM (skyteam = points sur la carte de fidélité) et Tokyo Paris Nice avec Japan Airlines (vol AF opéré par) (idem pour les points) 1650 euros pour deux.
Nos parcours jacquaires et romieux ICI
Sur cette page http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yamanote_Line, il y a toutes les stations de la yamanote et leur point kilométrique. Avec ces chiffres et un plan tu pourras mieux évaluer les distances.
D'expérience, il est possible de faire un ou deux arrêts a pied, mais ça devient vite fort long. Surtout que l'on marche déjà beaucoup pour visiter.
D'expérience, il est possible de faire un ou deux arrêts a pied, mais ça devient vite fort long. Surtout que l'on marche déjà beaucoup pour visiter.
Eric Binamé, Densha Otaku
- --
http://www.train-tram.be
http://www.train-tram.be/japon
Bonsoir,
que penses-tu du taito ryokan a asakusa en comparaison avec le kshouse que tu proposes du côté de Kuramae station? Les prix sont semble-t-il plus intéressant au taito ryokan, j'hésites entre les deux pour le mois de juillet, nous y serons 6 nuits avant de rejoindre la Nouvelle-Calédonie...
Merci
Merci
Voyager, c'est ma devise...
Salut,
A vrai dire je ne veux pas m'avancer étant donner que je ne connais pas le taito ryokan.
En regardant vite fais sur le net, j'ai pu voir que les fourchettes de prix sont quasis identiques et chacun ont l'air bien situé dans Tokyo.
Après il est certain que c'est un ryokan, donc esprit Japonais garantis, tandis que le k's house propose des chambre occidentale uniquement...net désavantage !
Cependant, le K's est la "garantie" presque certaine d'un environnement propre...pour l'autre ben les photos que j'ai pu voir ne m'enlève pas le doute...
Essaye de trouver des personnes sur Internet ayant séjourné dans ce Ryokan afin d'être sur....
Bonne recherche 😉
www.uneviedesvoyages.fr
Un site sans prétention ayant un seul but : partager notre expérience 😉
Un site sans prétention ayant un seul but : partager notre expérience 😉
- 5 fois, la 6ème en préparation.Pour les parapluies, soit tu en achètes un sur place pour pas cher dans les petits magasins, soit tu en prends un gratuitement dans des bacs prévus à cet effet dans les gares ou les magasins ou les hôtels. Ces parapluies sont là pour être emportés si il pleut quand tu sort. Arrivé à destination (ou quand il ne pleut plus, tu l'abandonnes dans un bac similaire au premier.L'été est sans doute la plus mauvaise saison a cause de la pluie et de la chaleur humide. Mais je japon étant fort long, il peut faire très bon sur Hokkaido et intenable à Kyoto. Avec la météo, il faut aussi un peu de chance.
combien de fois es tu allé au japon?? Sais tu si nous devons prévoir des parapluies??? On m'a rapporté qu'en juillet et aout c'était pluvieux et gris??? merci
combien de fois es tu allé au japon?? Sais tu si nous devons prévoir des parapluies??? On m'a rapporté qu'en juillet et aout c'était pluvieux et gris??? merci
Eric Binamé, Densha Otaku
- --
http://www.train-tram.be
http://www.train-tram.be/japon
bonjour,
sur 14 nuits passé au japon, j'ai calculé 4 nuits à kyoto.
cela parait correct pour une première approche??
Je suppose que le JR ne fonctionne pas là bas donc je dois payer les transports?? bus métro où marcher pour économiser???!!!
j'ai lu aussi que l'on pouvait louer des vélos ...plus économique??
quels sont les endroits à privilégiés dès lors que l'on reste peu de temps.
merci
C'est vrai que le kansai est un fief des compagnies privées. Il y a plus de trains privés que de JR dans cette région.
Mais pour te rassurer, les privés du Kansai ne sont pas cher. Kyoto est une ville avec seulement 2 lignes de métro. Il n'y a plus de trams depuis 30 ans (une grosse partie des motrices est à Hiroshima). Donc, il reste le bus, la marche, le vélo et le taxi. Il existe une carte d'un jour pour les bus. Pas cher et pratique. Le vélo est un bon plan, surtout si ton hôtel en loue.
en 4 jours dans le coin, je ferais
1 : Nara + Horyuji 2 : Mont Hiei + temple en ville genre Kyomizudera, Ginkakuji, Sanjusanjendo 3 : Arashiyama + Kinkakuji + Nijo ou/et parc impérial 4 : Mont Koya
Mais pour te rassurer, les privés du Kansai ne sont pas cher. Kyoto est une ville avec seulement 2 lignes de métro. Il n'y a plus de trams depuis 30 ans (une grosse partie des motrices est à Hiroshima). Donc, il reste le bus, la marche, le vélo et le taxi. Il existe une carte d'un jour pour les bus. Pas cher et pratique. Le vélo est un bon plan, surtout si ton hôtel en loue.
en 4 jours dans le coin, je ferais
1 : Nara + Horyuji 2 : Mont Hiei + temple en ville genre Kyomizudera, Ginkakuji, Sanjusanjendo 3 : Arashiyama + Kinkakuji + Nijo ou/et parc impérial 4 : Mont Koya
Eric Binamé, Densha Otaku
- --
http://www.train-tram.be
http://www.train-tram.be/japon
bonsoir,
nous aurions souhaité nous rendre à Hiroshima mais j'ai regardé les horaires, cela parait long surtout pour le retour.
( je suis allée sur le site Grace Hyperdia et pour le retour Hiroshima/Tokyo : depart 12.35 arrivé:16.19. Mais dans le détail j'ai vu :bus, avion(????) Tokyo monorail : J'en ai trouvé un autre JR Sanyo Line et il met 9.20!
donc je me demandais si cela valait la peine surtout en ne restant que 14 nuits au japon de faire autant de trajet??? aurais tu autre chose à nous conseiller autour de Tokyo ou de Kyoto?? en sachant que je prévois Nikko Kamakkura et le coin du Mt Fudji encore merci
( je suis allée sur le site Grace Hyperdia et pour le retour Hiroshima/Tokyo : depart 12.35 arrivé:16.19. Mais dans le détail j'ai vu :bus, avion(????) Tokyo monorail : J'en ai trouvé un autre JR Sanyo Line et il met 9.20!
donc je me demandais si cela valait la peine surtout en ne restant que 14 nuits au japon de faire autant de trajet??? aurais tu autre chose à nous conseiller autour de Tokyo ou de Kyoto?? en sachant que je prévois Nikko Kamakkura et le coin du Mt Fudji encore merci
Vu ce que tu racomptes, Hyperdia t'a fait prendre l'avion.Tu aurais du décocher airline et cocher Except Nozomi. Comme ça il ne te fait pas prendre l'avion ni les shinkansen Nozomi que tu ne peux prendre avec un RP.
J'ai trouvé ceci comme horaire.
Hiroshima 12:10 Hikari Railstar 458 Shin Osaka 13:44
Shin Osaka 14:19 Hikari 416 Tokyo 17:13
Je trouves ça très honnête comme temps de parcours pour 900km. Mais bon, c'est peut-être car Hiroshima est ma grande ville préférée.
J'ai trouvé ceci comme horaire.
Hiroshima 12:10 Hikari Railstar 458 Shin Osaka 13:44
Shin Osaka 14:19 Hikari 416 Tokyo 17:13
Je trouves ça très honnête comme temps de parcours pour 900km. Mais bon, c'est peut-être car Hiroshima est ma grande ville préférée.
Eric Binamé, Densha Otaku
- --
http://www.train-tram.be
http://www.train-tram.be/japon
Non, j'ai fait AUA, SAS et AF
Eric Binamé, Densha Otaku
- --
http://www.train-tram.be
http://www.train-tram.be/japon
Je ne sais pas si ton choix est arrêté pour l'hébergement mais lorsque j'étais à Kyoto, j'ai séjourné 5nuits à la GOGO GUESTHOUSE et c'était fabuleux. Ce sont des dortoirs avec futon, propres et un staff adorable C'est près de Gion, à 10min à pied du Kyomisudera. Il y a des tonnes de temples dans le coin.
Le meilleur moyen de visiter Kyoto : le vélo ! Tu vas ou tu veux, quand tu veux et il y a des parkings à vélo de partout ! Ça coûte pas grand chose, la plupart des GuestHouse en loue pour une pas grand chose par jour.
Il y a des milliers de choses à faire dans et autour de Kyoto, ne vous pressez pas trop car vous allez passer à côté de choses magnifiques 😉
Le meilleur moyen de visiter Kyoto : le vélo ! Tu vas ou tu veux, quand tu veux et il y a des parkings à vélo de partout ! Ça coûte pas grand chose, la plupart des GuestHouse en loue pour une pas grand chose par jour.
Il y a des milliers de choses à faire dans et autour de Kyoto, ne vous pressez pas trop car vous allez passer à côté de choses magnifiques 😉
Mon carnet de route pour la Namibie
Mon carnet de route pour le Japon (en construction)
Désolée je ne connais que la Gojo GH à Kyoto. Les dortoirs ne sont pas mixtes mais après ils ont des chambres privés où il est possible de rester à plusieurs.
Coté prix, c'est 2500Yens par personne et c'est le tarif de base pour un dortoir quand on cherche un petit prix. Et je trouve que ça les vait personnellement.
Coté prix, c'est 2500Yens par personne et c'est le tarif de base pour un dortoir quand on cherche un petit prix. Et je trouve que ça les vait personnellement.
Mon carnet de route pour la Namibie
Mon carnet de route pour le Japon (en construction)
😎bonjour,
j'ai les billets et avant de reserver que penses tu de notre parcours?
8 jours sur tokyo (7 nuits)
5 jours sur Kyoto (4 nuits)( 1 journee pour Nara)
2 jours sur hiroshima ( 1 nuit)
3 jours sur tokyo (2 nuits)
sur les 8 jours à Tokyo, il y aura 1 pour Kamakkura, 1 pour Nikko, 1 pour Hakone
est ce faisable??
je suppose que l'on va galerer pour trouver tel endroit mais ce sont les joies du voyage...
A tokyo je reserve au Juyoh, comme je ne me rends pas compte des distances est ce loin de la gare de Tokyo?
pour Kyoto le Ks House
et hiroshima un ryokan quelconque;
qu'en penses tu ?
merci
Rikola
Après avoir testé je maintiens que le K's house est un excellent choix : très bon rapport qualité prix pour des hotels bien situé en plus.
Sinon les claviers japonais sont des QUERTY
Bon voyages ^^
www.uneviedesvoyages.fr
Un site sans prétention ayant un seul but : partager notre expérience 😉
Un site sans prétention ayant un seul but : partager notre expérience 😉
est-ce que quelqu'un connait J-Hoppers ?
ils ont des chambres à Hiroshima, Kyoto, Osaka, ça a l'air d'être pas mal :)
Grand besoin de changer d'air !
Le voyage de Nin-Nin en 2016 sur http://terredessonges.fr
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Hi there.
I’m traveling solo to China in October '26, heading to these spots:
Guilin - Yangshuo - Chengdu – Leshan – Chongqing – Zhangjiajie - Furong – Shanghai
Any guides you’d recommend?
Tons of "agencies" (gowithguide, Hellechinaguide, etc.) offer guides. Can I reach out to them? I also speak English.
Any other tips for me?
Thanks! !
Guilin - Yangshuo - Chengdu – Leshan – Chongqing – Zhangjiajie - Furong – Shanghai
Any guides you’d recommend?
Tons of "agencies" (gowithguide, Hellechinaguide, etc.) offer guides. Can I reach out to them? I also speak English.
Any other tips for me?
Thanks! !
Hello,
We’re flying to China in a few days for a four-week trip—our first time in this fascinating country! 🇨🇳
We’ll be sharing our adventure live on our travel journal, with photos and daily updates. Our itinerary, though classic, will let us discover the wonders of this vast country:
- Beijing (6 nights) - Zhangjiajie (5 nights) - Fenghuang (2 nights) - Longji (4 nights) - Yangshuo (5 nights) - Shanghai (4 nights)
We’re flying to China in a few days for a four-week trip—our first time in this fascinating country! 🇨🇳
We’ll be sharing our adventure live on our travel journal, with photos and daily updates. Our itinerary, though classic, will let us discover the wonders of this vast country:
- Beijing (6 nights) - Zhangjiajie (5 nights) - Fenghuang (2 nights) - Longji (4 nights) - Yangshuo (5 nights) - Shanghai (4 nights)
Hi there,
I’m starting to look at neighborhoods in Seoul, and I’m leaning toward staying in a hotel in Insa-Dong—I’ve spotted one really close to Unhyeongung. Is this a good area—nice and convenient for exploring the city?
Otherwise, I’ve also found another hotel in Yongsan-Gu, right near the station of the same name. Is that station useful for getting around Seoul?
Since I’ll be in South Korea for nearly two months, I plan to spend at least a week in Seoul to recover from jet lag (it takes me a while to adjust...). So, I’d love a neighborhood that’s pleasant and a hotel not too far from a subway station.
Thanks in advance!
I’m starting to look at neighborhoods in Seoul, and I’m leaning toward staying in a hotel in Insa-Dong—I’ve spotted one really close to Unhyeongung. Is this a good area—nice and convenient for exploring the city?
Otherwise, I’ve also found another hotel in Yongsan-Gu, right near the station of the same name. Is that station useful for getting around Seoul?
Since I’ll be in South Korea for nearly two months, I plan to spend at least a week in Seoul to recover from jet lag (it takes me a while to adjust...). So, I’d love a neighborhood that’s pleasant and a hotel not too far from a subway station.
Thanks in advance!
Hi there,
I’m getting ready for a classic tourist trip to China in May 2026.
The "Terres Lointaines" itinerary looks good to me, and the price is interesting.
Has anyone traveled with them before? Any feedback?
Is there a better option?
Thanks so much for sharing your experiences on this!
Michel
hi, does anyone have suggestions or contacts for a private local driver without going through a big travel agency for a multi-day trip in Yunnan?
thanks for any info
thanks for any info
Hi there,
I just booked my hotel in Seoul—it’ll be near Unhyeongung, on Samil-Daero 30-Gil—and I’m wondering if there’s public transport from the airport to this address (bus or subway)? If not, what’s the taxi fare? I read it’s around 50 or 60 €.
I just booked my hotel in Seoul—it’ll be near Unhyeongung, on Samil-Daero 30-Gil—and I’m wondering if there’s public transport from the airport to this address (bus or subway)? If not, what’s the taxi fare? I read it’s around 50 or 60 €.
I’m traveling to Japan with a young adult with autism (ASD) from July 28 to August 8, following a pretty classic route: Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto, and Tokyo. I’m looking for a schedule of the most spectacular fireworks displays during that time. So far, the dates for the major *hanabi* events aren’t available online yet. If anyone has them, I’d really appreciate it if you could share!
Hi there,
We’ll be doing a self-drive trip using public transport in May 2026.
On Day 6, we’ll arrive in Hakone by train from Tokyo in late morning. We’ll spend the night in Hakone before heading to Kyoto.
The main goal of this stop is clearly the view (no hiking) of Mount Fuji, not so much exploring Hakone, where the sights seem limited. I’ve read on the forum that the view is great from Gotemba, but it also takes a good hour by bus to get there. And, apart from that view, there’s nothing else to see in Gotemba!
So, I’m not sure what to choose. Any thoughts? Or alternatives to suggest? Maybe some spots in Hakone or Gotemba for a great view?
Thanks in advance.
We’ll be doing a self-drive trip using public transport in May 2026.
On Day 6, we’ll arrive in Hakone by train from Tokyo in late morning. We’ll spend the night in Hakone before heading to Kyoto.
The main goal of this stop is clearly the view (no hiking) of Mount Fuji, not so much exploring Hakone, where the sights seem limited. I’ve read on the forum that the view is great from Gotemba, but it also takes a good hour by bus to get there. And, apart from that view, there’s nothing else to see in Gotemba!
So, I’m not sure what to choose. Any thoughts? Or alternatives to suggest? Maybe some spots in Hakone or Gotemba for a great view?
Thanks in advance.
Hi everyone, I’m Julien!
This summer, from late June to late July, I’m planning a one-month solo trip to Japan—my first time!
I’d love to hear your thoughts and advice on the itinerary I’ve put together to explore this amazing country.
Here are the routes I’m considering:
**Option 1: More mountain and nature-focused**
Tokyo: 8 nights, with day trips to Nikko and maybe the Izu Peninsula Kawaguchiko (Lake Kawaguchi/Mt. Fuji): 1 night. The place looks stunning, but I’m worried Mt. Fuji might not be visible due to the weather Kyoto: 6–7 nights (including a trip to Nara) Osaka: 1–2 nights, where I’d like to drop off my things to make the Kumano Kodo easier Kumano Kodo: 3 nights—an experience I haven’t seen much elsewhere, but I thought it sounded really interesting Hiroshima: 2 nights Miyajima: 1 night Takayama: 3 days Kanazawa: 3 days (From what I understand, the Osaka–Takayama–Kanazawa–Tokyo route is convenient for transport) Tokyo: 1 night (return)
**Option 2: More varied but a bit vague in parts**
Tokyo: 8 nights Kyoto: 7 nights (+ Nara) Osaka: 2 nights Kobe + Himeji: just passing through—I’m not sure if it’s worth a night Naoshima: 1 night—still pretty unclear for me Takamatsu: 2 nights. An interesting city, but I’m not sure how long to stay Shimanami Kaido: biking from Imabari to Onomichi, then heading to Hiroshima Hiroshima: 2 nights Miyajima: 1 night Kyushu road trip (Aso + onsens + Fukuoka): 5 nights (also pretty vague—I could fly from Fukuoka back to Tokyo) Tokyo: 1 night
**Option 3: More balanced/simplified**
Tokyo: 8 nights Kawaguchiko: 1 night Kyoto: 7 nights (+ Nara) Osaka: 2 nights Koya-san: 1 night Kumano Kodo: 3 nights Takayama: 3 nights Kanazawa: 3 nights Tokyo: 1 night
A few key points: I haven’t made any reservations yet, except for the flight tickets. I know my plans are too packed and will need to be adjusted. I’m specifically looking for advice on which stops to cut or shorten.
Here are the routes I’m considering:
**Option 1: More mountain and nature-focused**
Tokyo: 8 nights, with day trips to Nikko and maybe the Izu Peninsula Kawaguchiko (Lake Kawaguchi/Mt. Fuji): 1 night. The place looks stunning, but I’m worried Mt. Fuji might not be visible due to the weather Kyoto: 6–7 nights (including a trip to Nara) Osaka: 1–2 nights, where I’d like to drop off my things to make the Kumano Kodo easier Kumano Kodo: 3 nights—an experience I haven’t seen much elsewhere, but I thought it sounded really interesting Hiroshima: 2 nights Miyajima: 1 night Takayama: 3 days Kanazawa: 3 days (From what I understand, the Osaka–Takayama–Kanazawa–Tokyo route is convenient for transport) Tokyo: 1 night (return)
**Option 2: More varied but a bit vague in parts**
Tokyo: 8 nights Kyoto: 7 nights (+ Nara) Osaka: 2 nights Kobe + Himeji: just passing through—I’m not sure if it’s worth a night Naoshima: 1 night—still pretty unclear for me Takamatsu: 2 nights. An interesting city, but I’m not sure how long to stay Shimanami Kaido: biking from Imabari to Onomichi, then heading to Hiroshima Hiroshima: 2 nights Miyajima: 1 night Kyushu road trip (Aso + onsens + Fukuoka): 5 nights (also pretty vague—I could fly from Fukuoka back to Tokyo) Tokyo: 1 night
**Option 3: More balanced/simplified**
Tokyo: 8 nights Kawaguchiko: 1 night Kyoto: 7 nights (+ Nara) Osaka: 2 nights Koya-san: 1 night Kumano Kodo: 3 nights Takayama: 3 nights Kanazawa: 3 nights Tokyo: 1 night
A few key points: I haven’t made any reservations yet, except for the flight tickets. I know my plans are too packed and will need to be adjusted. I’m specifically looking for advice on which stops to cut or shorten.
Hello everyone,
Like Cedric13600, I’ve booked a flight ticket for 30 days / 29 nights in September 2026, from Beijing to Shanghai. We’re a couple in our sixties who love independent road trips.
I’d like to draw inspiration from the following private itinerary suggested by a travel agency:
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing Day 2 to 4: Beijing Day 5: Datong Day 6 & 7: Pingyao Day 8 to 10: Xi'an Day 11: Luoyang Day 12: Dengfeng flight Day 13 & 14: Chongqing flight Day 15 & 16: Lijiang Day 17: Dali Day 18: Kunming Day 19: Jianshui Day 20 & 21: Yuanyang Day 22: Travel via Guilin Day 23 & 24: Yangshuo Day 25: Guilin Day 26 & 27: Zhangjiajie flight Day 28 & 29: Shanghai Day 30: Departure from Shanghai
But to do this itinerary independently: 1. This schedule seems very ambitious to me—what do you think? 2. If it’s too packed, what would you remove as a priority? Thanks so much in advance for your help.
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing Day 2 to 4: Beijing Day 5: Datong Day 6 & 7: Pingyao Day 8 to 10: Xi'an Day 11: Luoyang Day 12: Dengfeng flight Day 13 & 14: Chongqing flight Day 15 & 16: Lijiang Day 17: Dali Day 18: Kunming Day 19: Jianshui Day 20 & 21: Yuanyang Day 22: Travel via Guilin Day 23 & 24: Yangshuo Day 25: Guilin Day 26 & 27: Zhangjiajie flight Day 28 & 29: Shanghai Day 30: Departure from Shanghai
But to do this itinerary independently: 1. This schedule seems very ambitious to me—what do you think? 2. If it’s too packed, what would you remove as a priority? Thanks so much in advance for your help.
Hello everyone,
I’m planning a 5-week trip between Yunnan and Sichuan from mid-October to the end of November 2026: Arriving in Kunming, I’ll do a loop in the far south of Yunnan via Thonghai, Jhiansu, Zhemi, Yuanyang, Nafa, Jinping, Mengzi, and Shilin (visiting markets, villages, and hiking), then head to northern Yunnan/southern Sichuan on the same theme (passing through Kunming again) via Dongchuan, Huize, Qiaojia, Puge, Xichang, Lanba, Butuo, Huolie, Dimo, Riha, Niuniuba, Meigu, Mabian, and Leshan, before arriving in Chengdu (where I’ll take my return flight to Paris). This would be a trip with a strong ethnic/rural focus. Since I’ve never traveled in China, I’d love to hear your thoughts on doing this solo. Are there public transport options in the region? What tips do you have for traveling through this area as smoothly and enjoyably as possible? I’ve done quite a bit of backpacking in the mountains of northern Vietnam and really enjoyed using local motorbike drivers. Is something like that available in this region (through local tourist agencies or hotels)?
What should I be cautious about? Are local tourist agencies (or hotels) offering tours and guides reliable? If you know of any specialized sites sharing tips or experiences, or names of local agencies, hotels, etc., please don’t hesitate to share them! :)
In short, all your advice (on any topic that comes to mind!) is very welcome. Thanks so much!
I’m planning a 5-week trip between Yunnan and Sichuan from mid-October to the end of November 2026: Arriving in Kunming, I’ll do a loop in the far south of Yunnan via Thonghai, Jhiansu, Zhemi, Yuanyang, Nafa, Jinping, Mengzi, and Shilin (visiting markets, villages, and hiking), then head to northern Yunnan/southern Sichuan on the same theme (passing through Kunming again) via Dongchuan, Huize, Qiaojia, Puge, Xichang, Lanba, Butuo, Huolie, Dimo, Riha, Niuniuba, Meigu, Mabian, and Leshan, before arriving in Chengdu (where I’ll take my return flight to Paris). This would be a trip with a strong ethnic/rural focus. Since I’ve never traveled in China, I’d love to hear your thoughts on doing this solo. Are there public transport options in the region? What tips do you have for traveling through this area as smoothly and enjoyably as possible? I’ve done quite a bit of backpacking in the mountains of northern Vietnam and really enjoyed using local motorbike drivers. Is something like that available in this region (through local tourist agencies or hotels)?
What should I be cautious about? Are local tourist agencies (or hotels) offering tours and guides reliable? If you know of any specialized sites sharing tips or experiences, or names of local agencies, hotels, etc., please don’t hesitate to share them! :)
In short, all your advice (on any topic that comes to mind!) is very welcome. Thanks so much!
Hi,
While researching South Korea, I came across the term "templestay," which refers to a Korean program that lets you stay in a traditional temple to discover Buddhism and Korean culture by living like the temple residents and doing activities like making lanterns. A templestay isn’t just for foreign tourists—on the booking site, I saw that some temples are more geared toward foreigners, with English-speaking monks.
I was wondering if it’s still worth it, especially in temples where the monks don’t speak English?
While researching South Korea, I came across the term "templestay," which refers to a Korean program that lets you stay in a traditional temple to discover Buddhism and Korean culture by living like the temple residents and doing activities like making lanterns. A templestay isn’t just for foreign tourists—on the booking site, I saw that some temples are more geared toward foreigners, with English-speaking monks.
I was wondering if it’s still worth it, especially in temples where the monks don’t speak English?
I'm 69 years old and heading to China, where most tourist sites are free or discounted for me. However, trip.com either refuses to let me book because the sites are free or doesn’t apply the discount. Does WeChat apply this discount if I book through them? How can I just reserve without paying and pay on-site? Is that possible?
How do I upload my passport to WeChat?
Thanks for your tips. Elisabeth
How do I upload my passport to WeChat?
Thanks for your tips. Elisabeth
Hi there,
I’d love to get some feedback on our 30-day / 29-night itinerary in China. We’ll be there in September as a family with two kids (6 and 10 years old). Do you think I should cut a few nights between Wulingyuan (Avatar Mountain) and Yangshuo? I’ve planned 15 nights total there. We’ll be on a round-the-world trip starting May 2026 and will need to do schoolwork with the kids. Hoping to fit it in during train rides!! Ever since I started planning this China itinerary, I’ve been discovering completely mind-blowing places I’d never heard of before—30 days feels way too short for China!!!
Here’s our itinerary:
Beijing - 4 nights Forbidden City Great Wall of China Temple of Heaven
Xi’an - 3 nights Terracotta Army Muslim Quarter & Great Mosque
Chengdu - 3 nights Zoo - Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Wenshu Yuan Temple
Wulingyuan (Avatar Mountain) - 3 nights "Avatar Mountains"
Zhangjiajie - 2 nights Tianmen Mountain
Furong Town - 2 nights
Fenghuang - 2 nights
Guilin - 2 nights Chuanshan Park Guilin Yaoshan Scenic Attraction Reed Flute Cave
Yangshuo - 4 nights Biking along the Yulong River Moon Hill Ruyi Peak Xianggong Hill
Shanghai - 4 nights Shanghai Disneyland Yu Garden / Yuyuan Garden Yuyuan Bazaar
Thanks! Cédric
I’d love to get some feedback on our 30-day / 29-night itinerary in China. We’ll be there in September as a family with two kids (6 and 10 years old). Do you think I should cut a few nights between Wulingyuan (Avatar Mountain) and Yangshuo? I’ve planned 15 nights total there. We’ll be on a round-the-world trip starting May 2026 and will need to do schoolwork with the kids. Hoping to fit it in during train rides!! Ever since I started planning this China itinerary, I’ve been discovering completely mind-blowing places I’d never heard of before—30 days feels way too short for China!!!
Here’s our itinerary:
Beijing - 4 nights Forbidden City Great Wall of China Temple of Heaven
Xi’an - 3 nights Terracotta Army Muslim Quarter & Great Mosque
Chengdu - 3 nights Zoo - Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Wenshu Yuan Temple
Wulingyuan (Avatar Mountain) - 3 nights "Avatar Mountains"
Zhangjiajie - 2 nights Tianmen Mountain
Furong Town - 2 nights
Fenghuang - 2 nights
Guilin - 2 nights Chuanshan Park Guilin Yaoshan Scenic Attraction Reed Flute Cave
Yangshuo - 4 nights Biking along the Yulong River Moon Hill Ruyi Peak Xianggong Hill
Shanghai - 4 nights Shanghai Disneyland Yu Garden / Yuyuan Garden Yuyuan Bazaar
Thanks! Cédric
Hi there,
We just got back from a 2-week trip to China as a couple, and before we left, the budget was the hardest thing to picture concretely. We found plenty of info on visas, apps, transport, and itineraries, but way fewer detailed breakdowns of what you *actually* spend on the ground.
So, we took the time to share our real budget for 14 days. In our case, we spent around 1,800 € per person, with a big chunk of that going toward round-trip flights at about 600 € per person. We were also pretty surprised by how affordable China can be once you’re there—transport is often cheap, and a lot of everyday expenses stay reasonable.
The trickiest part, in the end, was figuring out how to pay while you’re there, since it’s not always obvious if you’re not prepared. But once everything’s set up and you get the hang of it, it’s really smooth.
If this can help other travelers get a better idea before they go, we’ve broken it all down here:
https://aventures-sans-mesaventure.com/budget-2-semaines-de-voyage-en-chine/
Happy travels and enjoy your adventure! Hélia
Happy travels and enjoy your adventure! Hélia
Hi everyone,
I’ve been planning several itineraries for a trip to Japan with my wife but would love your insights before we start booking!
In short, we want to go during Golden Week, see late-blooming cherry trees, and have the freedom to get around with a rental car.
Here’s the plan:
18-day itinerary in Japan (April 25 → May 12)
Goal: freedom, late cherry blossoms, culture & nature
---
Days 1–3: Tokyo (April 25–27) Arrival and adjustment (no car needed yet). Neighborhoods to visit: Shinjuku, Asakusa, Meiji Jingu, Shibuya, Odaiba. Suggested activities: Ghibli Museum, Sumida River cruise, izakaya meals. Late cherry blossoms (yaezakura) possible at Shinjuku Gyoen. Pick up the rental car on the morning of April 27.
---
Days 4–5: Mount Fuji & Hakone (April 27–28) Route: Tokyo → Kawaguchiko/Hakone (~2 h).
Activities: Lake Kawaguchi, Chureito Pagoda (Fuji views + late cherry blossoms) Onsen baths, Hakone Open-Air Museum. Stay: ryokan with onsen and views of Mount Fuji.
---
Days 6–7: Takayama & Shirakawa-go (April 29–30) Route: Hakone → Takayama (~4 h).
Activities: Preserved old town, sake breweries, UNESCO village of Shirakawa-go. Stay: traditional minshuku (thatched-roof house). Cherry blossoms are finishing at this altitude — beautiful mountain/nature contrasts. ---
Days 8–10: Kyoto & Nara (May 1–3) Route: Takayama → Kyoto (~4 h 30).
Activities in Kyoto: Fushimi Inari (red torii gates), Golden Pavilion, Arashiyama, Gion (geisha district).
Day trip to Nara: Free-roaming deer in Nara Park, Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Stay: Kyoto (3 nights).
---
Day 11: Osaka or Himeji (May 4) Route: Kyoto → Osaka (~1 h) or Himeji (~1 h 30).
Option 1: Osaka → modern vibe, street food, castle. Option 2: Himeji → stunning UNESCO-listed castle. Stay: Osaka.
---
Days 12–13: Kanazawa (May 5–6) Route: Osaka → Kanazawa (~4 h 30).
Activities: Kenroku-en Garden (gorgeous in spring), Omicho Market, samurai district. Stay: Kanazawa.
---
Days 14–15: Northern Japan – Aomori / Hirosaki (May 7–8) Route: Kanazawa → Aomori (~7 h, possible to break via Sendai).
Activities: Hirosaki Castle Park (peak bloom early May). Northern onsen (e.g., Sukayu). Stay: Hirosaki or Aomori.
---
Days 16–17: Nikko (May 9–10) Route: Aomori → Nikko (~6 h).
Activities: Toshogu Shrine, Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji. Stay: Nikko.
---
Day 18: Return to Tokyo & Relax in Kamakura (May 11–12) Route: Nikko → Kamakura (~3 h) → Tokyo (~1 h).
Activities: Great Buddha, Zen temples, seaside at Enoshima. Final night: Tokyo before the return flight.
Thanks in advance for your feedback!
---
Days 1–3: Tokyo (April 25–27) Arrival and adjustment (no car needed yet). Neighborhoods to visit: Shinjuku, Asakusa, Meiji Jingu, Shibuya, Odaiba. Suggested activities: Ghibli Museum, Sumida River cruise, izakaya meals. Late cherry blossoms (yaezakura) possible at Shinjuku Gyoen. Pick up the rental car on the morning of April 27.
---
Days 4–5: Mount Fuji & Hakone (April 27–28) Route: Tokyo → Kawaguchiko/Hakone (~2 h).
Activities: Lake Kawaguchi, Chureito Pagoda (Fuji views + late cherry blossoms) Onsen baths, Hakone Open-Air Museum. Stay: ryokan with onsen and views of Mount Fuji.
---
Days 6–7: Takayama & Shirakawa-go (April 29–30) Route: Hakone → Takayama (~4 h).
Activities: Preserved old town, sake breweries, UNESCO village of Shirakawa-go. Stay: traditional minshuku (thatched-roof house). Cherry blossoms are finishing at this altitude — beautiful mountain/nature contrasts. ---
Days 8–10: Kyoto & Nara (May 1–3) Route: Takayama → Kyoto (~4 h 30).
Activities in Kyoto: Fushimi Inari (red torii gates), Golden Pavilion, Arashiyama, Gion (geisha district).
Day trip to Nara: Free-roaming deer in Nara Park, Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Stay: Kyoto (3 nights).
---
Day 11: Osaka or Himeji (May 4) Route: Kyoto → Osaka (~1 h) or Himeji (~1 h 30).
Option 1: Osaka → modern vibe, street food, castle. Option 2: Himeji → stunning UNESCO-listed castle. Stay: Osaka.
---
Days 12–13: Kanazawa (May 5–6) Route: Osaka → Kanazawa (~4 h 30).
Activities: Kenroku-en Garden (gorgeous in spring), Omicho Market, samurai district. Stay: Kanazawa.
---
Days 14–15: Northern Japan – Aomori / Hirosaki (May 7–8) Route: Kanazawa → Aomori (~7 h, possible to break via Sendai).
Activities: Hirosaki Castle Park (peak bloom early May). Northern onsen (e.g., Sukayu). Stay: Hirosaki or Aomori.
---
Days 16–17: Nikko (May 9–10) Route: Aomori → Nikko (~6 h).
Activities: Toshogu Shrine, Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji. Stay: Nikko.
---
Day 18: Return to Tokyo & Relax in Kamakura (May 11–12) Route: Nikko → Kamakura (~3 h) → Tokyo (~1 h).
Activities: Great Buddha, Zen temples, seaside at Enoshima. Final night: Tokyo before the return flight.
Thanks in advance for your feedback!
hi! Is it easy to use for paying for all the small purchases at the markets? INSTALLATION AND USE WITHOUT ISSUES—do you also need a VPN for China?
Secondly, for using phone and internet, I have Orange—is it reliable, or should I go with Airalo instead?
Hi there,
The info I found on the forum is a bit outdated, so I’m asking again!
1) What budget should I plan for 15 days, given that hotels with breakfast, transfers, and transport are already paid for? I know it depends on the person, but I’d love a rough idea. For meals, we’re thinking simple street food or small local restaurants.
2) I’ve heard that credit cards (we each have a Revolut + 1 Visa Premier) aren’t widely used and that it’s better to have cash. Can you confirm?
3) Are foreign credit cards still not accepted at bank ATMs? Still 7-Eleven or the Post Office? And what about American Express?
Thanks in advance, Best regards
The info I found on the forum is a bit outdated, so I’m asking again!
1) What budget should I plan for 15 days, given that hotels with breakfast, transfers, and transport are already paid for? I know it depends on the person, but I’d love a rough idea. For meals, we’re thinking simple street food or small local restaurants.
2) I’ve heard that credit cards (we each have a Revolut + 1 Visa Premier) aren’t widely used and that it’s better to have cash. Can you confirm?
3) Are foreign credit cards still not accepted at bank ATMs? Still 7-Eleven or the Post Office? And what about American Express?
Thanks in advance, Best regards
I'm planning a 19-day itinerary in Japan this summer.
For a first trip, Kyoto seems like a must. For the rest, I'm torn between:
- Matsumoto, Takayama, Kanazawa for 5 to 6 days
- Kyoto 4 days
- Nara 2 days
- Koyasan 1 day
- Hakone/Mount Fuji 2 to 3 days
- Tokyo 3 days
Or dedicating the first 6 days to Kyushu.
Maybe there’s less traditional Japan in Kyushu compared to the Japanese Alps? Maybe Kyushu is less crowded? Thanks for your thoughts!
Or dedicating the first 6 days to Kyushu.
Maybe there’s less traditional Japan in Kyushu compared to the Japanese Alps? Maybe Kyushu is less crowded? Thanks for your thoughts!
Hi there!
I’ll be in Hong Kong from December 31 to January 3, 2027.
Any recommendations for things to see or do?
I’ll be staying in the Kowloon district.
I’d love to visit Lantau Island—what’s the best way to get there? And would you recommend buying a skip-the-line ticket for the cable car? Also, is there an entry fee for the Big Buddha?
I’ll be in Hong Kong from December 31 to January 3, 2027.
Any recommendations for things to see or do?
I’ll be staying in the Kowloon district.
I’d love to visit Lantau Island—what’s the best way to get there? And would you recommend buying a skip-the-line ticket for the cable car? Also, is there an entry fee for the Big Buddha?
Hi everyone who’s reading this!
I’m heading to Taiwan soon and would love some up-to-date info on Wi-Fi. From what I’ve gathered, Taiwan offers it for free, but I’ve heard it’s not secure since it’s not protected by a "password." Since I’ve been traveling outside the EU for years without a local SIM card, I only use Wi-Fi in hotels, restaurants, and cafés. For me, that’s more than enough. So, my question is: Do these places secure their Wi-Fi with a "password"? If not, does buying a SIM card or eSIM seem like the only alternative?
Also, if any of you have recommendations for budget-friendly hotels in the main "cities," I’d love to hear them!
Thanks in advance for your replies! !
I’m heading to Taiwan soon and would love some up-to-date info on Wi-Fi. From what I’ve gathered, Taiwan offers it for free, but I’ve heard it’s not secure since it’s not protected by a "password." Since I’ve been traveling outside the EU for years without a local SIM card, I only use Wi-Fi in hotels, restaurants, and cafés. For me, that’s more than enough. So, my question is: Do these places secure their Wi-Fi with a "password"? If not, does buying a SIM card or eSIM seem like the only alternative?
Also, if any of you have recommendations for budget-friendly hotels in the main "cities," I’d love to hear them!
Thanks in advance for your replies! !
Hi there,
We’re planning a trip to China for two at the beginning of April and want to spend 2 nights in the Longji Rice Terraces—either in Dazhai, Tiantouzhaï, or Ping'an. I’ve seen that most of the hotels are made of bamboo, and you can hear every little noise. Since my husband is a very light sleeper, he’d really like to be sure he’ll get a good night’s rest. Can you recommend any quiet, well-soundproofed hotels in the area?
Thanks in advance! !
We’re planning a trip to China for two at the beginning of April and want to spend 2 nights in the Longji Rice Terraces—either in Dazhai, Tiantouzhaï, or Ping'an. I’ve seen that most of the hotels are made of bamboo, and you can hear every little noise. Since my husband is a very light sleeper, he’d really like to be sure he’ll get a good night’s rest. Can you recommend any quiet, well-soundproofed hotels in the area?
Thanks in advance! !
Hello everyone,
I’m reaching out to you because I’m planning our next big trip (Japan is really tempting us for the autumn!) and I have to admit, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed.
My husband and I have always loved traveling, and at 75, we have no intention of stopping... But I find that everything’s getting so complicated. I try to be "modern" by booking online, but as soon as there’s a problem, we hit a wall.
A friend nearly missed her departure last year because of a visa issue that wasn’t explained properly on a website... and no one to call for help, just automated messages.
It makes me a little nervous to be alone in front of a screen so far away, especially since at our age, we like knowing there’s real support if our health takes a turn while we’re there.
Anyway, I’m tired of seeing my file passed from one person to another without ever having the same contact... Do you know of any small, trustworthy agencies or people who still work the "old-fashioned" way and really look after their clients? I love my independence, but I need a real face behind my project.
Thanks in advance for your advice, and I look forward to reading your replies, Catherine
I’m reaching out to you because I’m planning our next big trip (Japan is really tempting us for the autumn!) and I have to admit, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed.
My husband and I have always loved traveling, and at 75, we have no intention of stopping... But I find that everything’s getting so complicated. I try to be "modern" by booking online, but as soon as there’s a problem, we hit a wall.
A friend nearly missed her departure last year because of a visa issue that wasn’t explained properly on a website... and no one to call for help, just automated messages.
It makes me a little nervous to be alone in front of a screen so far away, especially since at our age, we like knowing there’s real support if our health takes a turn while we’re there.
Anyway, I’m tired of seeing my file passed from one person to another without ever having the same contact... Do you know of any small, trustworthy agencies or people who still work the "old-fashioned" way and really look after their clients? I love my independence, but I need a real face behind my project.
Thanks in advance for your advice, and I look forward to reading your replies, Catherine
Hi everyone,
I’m planning our trip to Japan from March 21 to April 11, 2026. We’re planning to travel by plane for long distances (Okinawa) and by train for the rest. I’d like to know if renting a car is easy and, most importantly, if driving with road signs written in Japanese isn’t too complicated. For trains, are there any tips to save money?
Thanks for your advice!
I’m planning our trip to Japan from March 21 to April 11, 2026. We’re planning to travel by plane for long distances (Okinawa) and by train for the rest. I’d like to know if renting a car is easy and, most importantly, if driving with road signs written in Japanese isn’t too complicated. For trains, are there any tips to save money?
Thanks for your advice!
hi everyone, and first of all, I wish you all a happy new year and good health!
This coming October or November, we’re planning our first trip to Japan. The only downside is we’ll only have two weeks off.
For this first visit, I’m thinking of sticking to the Kyoto and Osaka area… saving Tokyo for another trip. Do you think that’s a good choice for a first-time visit?
I’ve put together a little itinerary below to get some feedback from those in the know. I’m only counting the days we’re actually there, not travel days.
Day 1: Kyoto Ginkaku-ji – Philosopher’s Path with stops at a few shrines temples Eikan-dō and Nanzen-ji visit to the Samurai Ninja Museum in the late afternoon
Day 2: Kyoto Fushimi Inari (allow 4 hours for the hike through the park) visit to Sanjūsangen-dō temple Shōseien garden participate in a tea ceremony
Day 3: Kyoto Kiyomizu-dera temple stroll through the historic district up to Kennin-ji temple visit Kennin-ji temple Yasaka-jinja shrine and Gion district in the late afternoon return to the hotel via Pontochō Street
Day 4: Kyoto visit Kinkaku-ji and Nijō Castle visit the Imperial Palace gardens end the day in the shopping streets (Shibkyogoku and Teramachi, among others)
Day 5: Kyoto Arashiyama area Togetsukyo Bridge, walk along the river, visit the Bamboo Forest explore the area up to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji temple
Day 6: Kyoto hike from Kibune to Kurama
Day 7: Kyoto day trip to Nara (full day)
Day 8: stroll around Kyoto before heading to Osaka
Day 9: Osaka Katsuo-ji temple, then head to Minoh Falls and hike back via the Minoh Trail end the day in the Osaka Castle area
Day 10: Osaka Himeji Castle and an afternoon in Osaka
Day 11: Osaka Osaka and return to the airport in the late afternoon for the flight home
Do you think this itinerary is doable? Are some days too relaxed or too packed? I was thinking of adding a trip to Lake Biwa and Uji, but in that case, I’d have to cut some things. Are those places worth dropping some of the planned spots? And if so, which ones would you recommend cutting or shortening?
Thanks in advance—I’m all ears for both positive and negative feedback! stephane
This coming October or November, we’re planning our first trip to Japan. The only downside is we’ll only have two weeks off.
For this first visit, I’m thinking of sticking to the Kyoto and Osaka area… saving Tokyo for another trip. Do you think that’s a good choice for a first-time visit?
I’ve put together a little itinerary below to get some feedback from those in the know. I’m only counting the days we’re actually there, not travel days.
Day 1: Kyoto Ginkaku-ji – Philosopher’s Path with stops at a few shrines temples Eikan-dō and Nanzen-ji visit to the Samurai Ninja Museum in the late afternoon
Day 2: Kyoto Fushimi Inari (allow 4 hours for the hike through the park) visit to Sanjūsangen-dō temple Shōseien garden participate in a tea ceremony
Day 3: Kyoto Kiyomizu-dera temple stroll through the historic district up to Kennin-ji temple visit Kennin-ji temple Yasaka-jinja shrine and Gion district in the late afternoon return to the hotel via Pontochō Street
Day 4: Kyoto visit Kinkaku-ji and Nijō Castle visit the Imperial Palace gardens end the day in the shopping streets (Shibkyogoku and Teramachi, among others)
Day 5: Kyoto Arashiyama area Togetsukyo Bridge, walk along the river, visit the Bamboo Forest explore the area up to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji temple
Day 6: Kyoto hike from Kibune to Kurama
Day 7: Kyoto day trip to Nara (full day)
Day 8: stroll around Kyoto before heading to Osaka
Day 9: Osaka Katsuo-ji temple, then head to Minoh Falls and hike back via the Minoh Trail end the day in the Osaka Castle area
Day 10: Osaka Himeji Castle and an afternoon in Osaka
Day 11: Osaka Osaka and return to the airport in the late afternoon for the flight home
Do you think this itinerary is doable? Are some days too relaxed or too packed? I was thinking of adding a trip to Lake Biwa and Uji, but in that case, I’d have to cut some things. Are those places worth dropping some of the planned spots? And if so, which ones would you recommend cutting or shortening?
Thanks in advance—I’m all ears for both positive and negative feedback! stephane





