je sais que ca parait tres ambitieux et qu on risque de passer a coté de pas mal de truc, et surtout pas mal de temps dans les transports. mais on y va pour une premiere approche, on ne peut malheureusement pas avoir plus de vacance. et passer du temps dans les transports fait partie intégrante du voyage pour nous (notament le train entre pekin et lhassa). et le tibet nous attire beaucoup (peut etre auriez vous d autre régions un peu similaire a conseiler comme les zones du yunan, sichuan et gansu frontatliere au tibet). est ce que quelqu un sait si c est facile et pas trop cher d organiser un voyage lhassa-chengdu (ou autre ville du yunan ou du sichuan qui dessert shangai en train) avec une agence de voyage depuis lhassa? j immagine que tenter le coup avec les transports publics est juste impossible (surtout si on a des impératifs de temps). merci de vos réponse.
Itinéraire Chine-Tibet en été 2010
by Francois1980
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
bonjour,
de nouvelles questions et conseils a demander par rapport a notre voyage en chine de cet été.
je pars 20 jours avec ma copinne (fin juillet > mi-aout), et nous voulions éventuellement tenter d aller au tibet.
je pensais donc a l'itinéraire suivant :
- atterissage a pekin (3 jours sur place avec des amis y vivant).
- train jusque lhassa (48 heure de train, mais cela ne effraie pas plus que ca, au contraire, il parait que les derniers tronçons sont magnifiques).
- 7/8 jours au tibet (pas encore trop potassé sur ou aller, mais me fais pas trop de soucis, on va peut etre essayer sans guide, on verra sur place, dans tous les cas, on va prendre le permis, mais voir si on peut esquiver le pack guide/tour operator ou on le prendra sur place).
- retour par la route (avec tour operator?) jusque chengdu
- quelques jours a shangai (de chengdu a shangai par le train).
- retour a pekin pour prendre l avion et rentrer a paris.
je sais que ca parait tres ambitieux et qu on risque de passer a coté de pas mal de truc, et surtout pas mal de temps dans les transports. mais on y va pour une premiere approche, on ne peut malheureusement pas avoir plus de vacance. et passer du temps dans les transports fait partie intégrante du voyage pour nous (notament le train entre pekin et lhassa). et le tibet nous attire beaucoup (peut etre auriez vous d autre régions un peu similaire a conseiler comme les zones du yunan, sichuan et gansu frontatliere au tibet). est ce que quelqu un sait si c est facile et pas trop cher d organiser un voyage lhassa-chengdu (ou autre ville du yunan ou du sichuan qui dessert shangai en train) avec une agence de voyage depuis lhassa? j immagine que tenter le coup avec les transports publics est juste impossible (surtout si on a des impératifs de temps). merci de vos réponse.
je sais que ca parait tres ambitieux et qu on risque de passer a coté de pas mal de truc, et surtout pas mal de temps dans les transports. mais on y va pour une premiere approche, on ne peut malheureusement pas avoir plus de vacance. et passer du temps dans les transports fait partie intégrante du voyage pour nous (notament le train entre pekin et lhassa). et le tibet nous attire beaucoup (peut etre auriez vous d autre régions un peu similaire a conseiler comme les zones du yunan, sichuan et gansu frontatliere au tibet). est ce que quelqu un sait si c est facile et pas trop cher d organiser un voyage lhassa-chengdu (ou autre ville du yunan ou du sichuan qui dessert shangai en train) avec une agence de voyage depuis lhassa? j immagine que tenter le coup avec les transports publics est juste impossible (surtout si on a des impératifs de temps). merci de vos réponse.
j immagine que tenter le coup avec les transports publics est juste impossible (surtout si on a des impératifs de temps).
Tenter le coup par les transports en commun est effectivement peine perdue. Aucun chauffeur de bus ne vous laissera monter, il risquerait trop gros. Certains tronçons ne sont pas desservis par les bus de toute façon.
Tenter le coup par les transports en commun est effectivement peine perdue. Aucun chauffeur de bus ne vous laissera monter, il risquerait trop gros. Certains tronçons ne sont pas desservis par les bus de toute façon.
ok, merci de la reponse et du coup, a combien cela reviendrait il pensez vous et combien de temps cela prendrait il? rejoindre chengdu depuis lhassa?
L'idéal serait de contacter par mail plusieurs agences à Lhassa, elles vous enverraient des devis. Attendez-vous à des tarifs assez fous. En 2007 elles me demandaient toutes entre 2000 et 2500 euros pour 7 jours de trajet. Hors hébergement et hors repas.
L'idéal je pense serait de faire plutôt Chengdu Lhassa et retour train ou avion car par la route c'est hors de prix: guide+chauffeur+hotel pour tous etc...obligatoire avec permis
et vu comme les françouses sont bien vus par les autorités chinoises en ce moment, ça risque d'être encore plus compliqué !
La plus grande des misères est de ce sentir misérable
Proverbe tibétain
Je sais bien que les prix demandés par les agences sont pure folie. François souhaite avoir une idée des tarifs, je lui conseille donc de contacter des professionnels à Lhassa. Prendre les routes qui mènent à Chengdu ou à Zhongdian est une expérience unique, je comprends qu'on ait envie de la tenter. Ce sujet revient d'ailleurs régulièrement sur le forum.
ok, merci pour ces réponses précieuses. je vais essayer de contacter une agence et faire deviser ca.
mpui, pour répondre a ton post, j avais cru comprendre qu il etait assez compliqué de partir depuis chengdu au tibet car les autorités chinoises appréciait moyennement de voir les touristes passés par des coins reculés du tibet, et du coup, on retrouvait des groupes entiers de touristes a chengdu qui attendaient pendant plusieurs jours voir semaines leur papier pour partir. du coup, je pense qu on va tenter le coup dans l autre sens (depuis lhassa jusque chengdu), car ca a l air quand meme plus facile de sortir du tibet que d y rentrer. pour rentrer, nous essairons de le faire avec la ligne de train principale depuis pekin, j ai cru comprendre qu on aurait moin de probleme en y allant comme ca (c est du tout schuss jusque lhassa), apres, on aura peut etre des problemes en arrivant a lhassa, mais on verra bien...
et depuis zhongdian ou chengdu, combien de temps devons nous prevoir pour aller a shangai (j immagine en train depuis chengdu et en bus (zhongdai > kumming, puis kumming> shangai en train).
merci encore.
J'ai retrouvé le message que j'avais posté ici-même juste après avoir emprunté la route Lhassa - Zhongdian. On m'avait annoncé entre 1500 et 2000 euros en fait. Mea culpa 😊. Trop cher de toute façon. Tu excuseras les fautes et l'absence d'accents. Je ne garantis pas qu'il est toujours possible de trouver ce genre de bon plan. Illégal certes. Mais bon plan quand même. Rien ne t'empêche de te renseigner dans les agences ainsi que dans les hôtels une fois arrivé à Lhassa.
http://voyageforum.com/...ring=lhassa%20route;
Je souhaite juste apporter une petite modification. Lorsque j'écris que le fait de voyager en 4X4 induit l'achat de permis, je veux dire que la plupart des occidentaux qui empruntent cette route en 4X4 sont munis de ces permis. Il est donc très probable que les agents que nous avons croisés, nous voyant dans un 4X4, nous ont automatiquement crus porteurs de ces permis. Il leur a donc peut-être paru inutile de nous contrôler. Je ne sais pas si tout ceci est très clair... 🤪
http://voyageforum.com/...ring=lhassa%20route;
Je souhaite juste apporter une petite modification. Lorsque j'écris que le fait de voyager en 4X4 induit l'achat de permis, je veux dire que la plupart des occidentaux qui empruntent cette route en 4X4 sont munis de ces permis. Il est donc très probable que les agents que nous avons croisés, nous voyant dans un 4X4, nous ont automatiquement crus porteurs de ces permis. Il leur a donc peut-être paru inutile de nous contrôler. Je ne sais pas si tout ceci est très clair... 🤪
whoo, ca met l eau a la bouche. on se renseignera sur place du coup, mais j ai peur qu on manque de temps...
j essairais de faire un compte rendu en rentrant.
merci beaucoup pour ce témoignage.
ce n est vrai que si le chauffeur est tibetain...et comme la majorité des chauffeurs sont chinois...
essayez....vous verrez...
oliwen
essayez....vous verrez...
oliwen
ce n est vrai que si le chauffeur est tibetain...et comme la majorité des chauffeurs sont chinois...
essayez....vous verrez...
oliwen
A quel chauffeur fais-tu allusion ? Bus ou 4X4 ?
essayez....vous verrez...
oliwen
A quel chauffeur fais-tu allusion ? Bus ou 4X4 ?
les deux...
dans les pti bleds...y a toujours des44qui rodent...parfois, on peut meme les avoirs moins chers que les bus...ou au même prix...
mais allez aux bus...allez voir les prix dans le hall principal de la station et ensuit diriogez vous vers le bus, montez dedans...comme ca, souvent en chine, le prix est moin cher que le billet car cet argent va entierement dans la poche du chauffeur...hehe
salut
salut
Contrairement à toi, la plupart des personnes qui sont en recherche d'informations sur comment aller au Tibet n'ont jamais mis les pieds en Chine. Ils ne parlent pas couramment le chinois donc ne sont pas aptes à parlementer avec les fonctionnaires, chauffeurs ou hôteliers du coin. La maitrise de la langue t'ouvre des portes qui leur resteront bien souvent fermées.
oui, d accord avec toi, mais alors, le tibet c est choooooo...il risquent de perdre leur temps et leur argent...vo mieux alors qu ils se contentent d autres coins de chine////
si ils tiennsnt absolument a aller dans les provinces tibetaines, qu ils aillent dans l ouest du sichuan...apres chengdu et kanding (y a meme un aerooport la ) c est beau, sauvage et dans trop de tracas....
sinon il existe des tas de super coins en chine...ou au xinjiang..
ou qu ils aillent carrement au laddakh...ou au sikkim...hehe
je trouve sympa ton "surnom" marycurry marie curie.....marrant oliwen
je trouve sympa ton "surnom" marycurry marie curie.....marrant oliwen
pour les personnes qui n ont jamais mis le pied en chine, je pense qu un tel voyage est trop ambitieux...
moi même, qui ait fait mes etudes a pekin et vecu trois ans dans ce pays, au retour (depuis un mois) d'un an en indochine (ex francaise) j ai un peu de pal a me rehabituer a Shanghai...et je n etais pas loin...
un exemple: ma collegue FLE , qui est francaise et qui a enseignée en espagne et qu est arrivee a sH il y a aussi un mois pour le meme boulot, qui connait un peu le chinois vu qu son meGc est sinologue m a dit ceci : l environnement chinois est un environnement hostile pour le touriste et l etranger...a SHANGHAI...et je suis d accord avec elle...
la chine est un pays qui s apprivoise lentement ....ou pas. il n y a pas de demi mesure...
alors debarquer comme ca et vouloir aller au tibet direct, la ou s est le plus difficile...moi perso je le ferai pas, c est le meileur moyen pour detester a la fois la chine , les chinois, le tibet et les tibetains...
ici rien n est simple...rien n est verai ou faux...tout est vraix et faux a la fois...
moi même je prends un max d infios avant d aller au tibet et nepal...et pour dire vrais j en aurais pas besoin...tout les endroits qu ils faut connaitre pour ce voyage je les connais, mais je les connais selon ma logique d eurasien...pas selon la logique chinoise...et il se pourrait bien que la logique chinoise de maintenant ne soit plus celle d il y a un an ou deux...
et je ne parle pas du nepal dont je ne connais rien, si ce n est une ou deux adresses d auberges a katmandu...et les horzaires des bus depuis la frontiere... mais la , je pense qu on peut decouvrir sans illogismes logiques et sans logique illogique...on verra
oliwen
et je ne parle pas du nepal dont je ne connais rien, si ce n est une ou deux adresses d auberges a katmandu...et les horzaires des bus depuis la frontiere... mais la , je pense qu on peut decouvrir sans illogismes logiques et sans logique illogique...on verra
oliwen
Lucq, ne commence pas à décourager les gens en partance pour le Tibet, des tas de gens l'ont fait et d'autres le feront et c'est tant mieux et pour la Chine (buisness des GHouses) et pour les tibétains quand même ravis de voir des étrangers qui sont malgré tout acquis à leur cause et bien que le Tibet libre soit utopique en ce moment, ce seront les chinois qui décideront, je suis allé l'an dernier à Litang (Kham) en coup de vent en attente du permis pour Lhassa KTM et en garde un très bon souvenir: les jeunes tibétains des villes quittent leurs traditions et passent directement à la vie "occidentale" :portable, habits européens et pratique de l'anglais, c'est mon analyse, la scission est très nette et mis à part dans les campagnes reculées, le Tibet traditionnel est en perdition, hélas ou pas, chacun se fait son opinion
Quand au Népal, c'est une autre planète touristique incontournable.....
Tashi delek
Tashi delek
La plus grande des misères est de ce sentir misérable
Proverbe tibétain
oui, d accord avec toi, mais alors, le tibet c est choooooo...il risquent de perdre leur temps et leur argent...vo mieux alors qu ils se contentent d autres coins de chine////
Non. Seulement ce sera sûrement plus dans les clous que pour toi. Plus cher aussi. La plupart partent de toute façon en connaissance de cause.
Non. Seulement ce sera sûrement plus dans les clous que pour toi. Plus cher aussi. La plupart partent de toute façon en connaissance de cause.
oui; mais ce que tu decris la, ce n est pas la vie a l occidentale...c est la vie a la chinoise...les tibetains n ont aucune idée de la vie a l'occidentale...encore une fois la fallacieuse apparence des choses...
oliwen
Oliwen: la vie à la chinoise......ils copient notre style de vie donc CQFD le tibétains itou !
La plus grande des misères est de ce sentir misérable
Proverbe tibétain
ils copient...oui et non...toujours l apparence des choses, attention.
et en ce qui concerne les tibetains, ils ne vont certainement pas leur donner de modeles occidentaux.... .une petite ennecdote: cela t en dira long sur la chine et ses minorites ethniques.... dans les années 30, les ouighours (xinjiang-turkestan chinois) qui sont culturellement et linguistiquement apparentes aux turcs (ottomans) ont adoptes le même aplhabet sur base des lettres latines et en m^me temps que la Turquie d ATATURK...en remplacement de la calligraphie arabe...
vers le début des années 80, Deng Xiao Ping, le pionnier de l ouverture economique de la chine...vers ce qui commencait a etre la mondialisation, a fait revennir l alphabet du xinjiang aux lettres arabes de droite a gauche...car il estimait que cela donnait trop de facilités aux ouighours pour apprendre et lire des documents en anglais...
cela, au moment de la "porte ouverte"...
donc tu peux imaginer qu avec ce qui c est passé au tibet depuis 50 ans...il n est pas question d occidentalisation.... la tele tibetaine est en chinois...tout ce qui est important est en chinois...
ne pas se leurrer...seule la chine "influence" le tibet...
oliwen
et en ce qui concerne les tibetains, ils ne vont certainement pas leur donner de modeles occidentaux.... .une petite ennecdote: cela t en dira long sur la chine et ses minorites ethniques.... dans les années 30, les ouighours (xinjiang-turkestan chinois) qui sont culturellement et linguistiquement apparentes aux turcs (ottomans) ont adoptes le même aplhabet sur base des lettres latines et en m^me temps que la Turquie d ATATURK...en remplacement de la calligraphie arabe...
vers le début des années 80, Deng Xiao Ping, le pionnier de l ouverture economique de la chine...vers ce qui commencait a etre la mondialisation, a fait revennir l alphabet du xinjiang aux lettres arabes de droite a gauche...car il estimait que cela donnait trop de facilités aux ouighours pour apprendre et lire des documents en anglais...
cela, au moment de la "porte ouverte"...
donc tu peux imaginer qu avec ce qui c est passé au tibet depuis 50 ans...il n est pas question d occidentalisation.... la tele tibetaine est en chinois...tout ce qui est important est en chinois...
ne pas se leurrer...seule la chine "influence" le tibet...
oliwen
merci pour toutes ces réponses. a l heure qu il est, nous ne savons toujours pas si nous allons aller au tibet ou pas. ce qui est sur c est que nous atterissons a pekin, que nous y resterons quelques jours. j ai eu de nouveaux devis d agence un peu moin cher, 4500 y sans le train pour 7 jours tout compris par personnes pour deux (parcours classiques lhassa, shigaste, gyantse). j ai jusque vendredi pour donner une réponse (ca va dépendre de mon billet de train, une amie de pekin est en train d essayer de nous l acheter).
si jamais c est trop compliqué, nous irons surement au sichuan vers la frontiere tibetaine (des suggestions?), ou nous ferons la route xining-chengdu.
j essaierais de poster un compte rendu avec photo de tout ca a notre retour.
francois.
Bonjour, je vous écris du Tibet ou nous allons terminer notre séjour de 3 semaines dans 2 jours. Le train soft sleeper = 4 personnes dans une cabine fantastique de bons duvets et oreilles. Hard sleeper c'est aussi bien mais 6 personnes et pas de portes. Le Wagon restaurant présente une gamme de plats très bons. Vous êtes bien courageux de faire tout ça en si peu de temps. IMPOSSIBLE D'Y ALLER SANS GUIDE MEME à VELO. Il ne faut pas oublier que le Tibet est très haut en altitude et personne ne peut prédire si il va supporter. Nous avons rencontré des Français qui n'ont fait qu'un jour car elle à cru mourir à Lhasa ( arrivée en avion ) très mauvais. D'autres arrivés en train de bons alpinistes malades durant 4 jours à vomir les tripes. Nous avons eu quelques problèmes la première nuit à Lhasa grosse migraine, puis ensuite au lac Namtso 4'600m grosse migraine. Et la nuit on se réveil souvent avec l'impression d'avoir oublié de respirer. Par contre à EBC le camps de base de l'Everest 5'000m super. Dans l'ensemble on passe souvent des cols à plus de 5'000m le plus haut à 5'230m. Nous avons rencontré des Français et Allemand qui travaillent à Shenghaï avec 5 BMW et side-care de 1926 à 1930 ils se sont gelés, mais surtout ils ont passé un mauvais moment au camps de base, le matin tous sauf un étaient malades terrible et ils devaient reprendre les motos.
Impossible de faire le Tibet sans un guide, un 4x4 et un chauffeur ce qui nous a fait exploser notre budget. Et ici ça ne rigole pas avec les documents, notre guide en a toute une chemise pleine Nous faisons le tour du monde depuis le 10.10.07.
Nous avons eu la chance de faire notre visa à Kuala Lumpur et nous l'avons pour 2 ans multiples entrées et séjour de 180 jours avant de sortir. Les touristes, les Chinois quoi tout le monde se demandent comment nous avons fait mais rien seulement eu de la chance. Et c'est super car le Tibet est magnifique ( Attention saison des pluies ) mais ça va. Et la Chine nous ne faisons que commencer. Nous avons fait 3 semaines à Chengdu super. Le Sim's cosy hostel fantastique. C'est eux qui nous ont organisé les 3 semaines au Tibet. Bon voyage et attention à préparer le Tibet si vous voulez avoir l'autorisation d'y aller on n'y coupe pas. Amitiés Monique et Charly les 2 vagabonds autour du monde
D.M.C
nous sommes rentrés de notre periple la semaine derniere, tout s est tres bien passé.
nous n avons finalement pas tenté le coup pour le tibet autonomne, mais sommes allé dans des régions tibetaines kham et ando, nous avons ralliés xining a chengdu par la route.
ce qui nous a donné l itinéraire suivant :
pekin - xining - yushu - serxu - gansi - madigango - tagong - chengdu - shanghai - pekin
le tout en 20 jours, ce qui a été assez speed (tout par la route et train sauf un vol chengdu - shanghai), mais qui nous a permis de dévouvrir la chine moderne de shanghai et pekin en opposition a la chine rurale du tibet historique.
un lien vers quelques photos du voyage : http://picasaweb.google.fr/francoisbonjour/ChinaSummer2010Select?authkey=Gv1sRgCI7ay7648qbjlwE#
Bonjour,
Je viens de lire votre message et vous avez fait un joli tour. je viens de regarder la carte routière. Pour notre part, après les 3 semaines au Tibet, nous nous sommes aussi arrêtés à Xining pour ensuite faire 4 jours à Tongren, puis pareil à Xiahé puis Langmusi, Zoigé pas resté, Songpan ville fortifiée avec visite de Huanglong, puis Juizhaigou et Chengdu, nous avons fait la descente en 3 semaines, fantastique. Après Chengdu, Leshan, Emei shan et de la à Chongqing vu le temps ville superbe puis une croisière de 4 jours et 3 nuits sur le Yangtzé le luxe 5* mais pas cher du tout et maintenant nous sommes à Yichang près du barrage des 3 gorges et le 31 nous avons le train pour Xi an. La Chine est un pays merveilleux, plein de contrastes.
Mais si vous avez l'occasion d'aller au Tibet à ne pas râter. Fantastique. Amitiés et bonne fin de semaine. Monique
D.M.C
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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!
Hello,
We’re planning a 17-day trip to South Korea in October 2026 with my husband and our daughters, who’ll be 9 years old.
I’d love to get your thoughts on our draft itinerary.
First, some key details:
1/ Jeju Island is a must for us. I’ve personally dreamed of going there for years after reading a novel about it. 2/ Our girls are used to road-trip style travel since they were born, so this kind of trip won’t be an issue for them. 3/ We plan to travel by train, except on Jeju where we’ll rent a car (we already have an international driver’s permit).
Itinerary:
Seoul: 1 arrival day at 10 AM + 4 full days Gyeongju: 2 days Busan: 3 days Jeju: 4 days Seoul: 2 days
Thanks for your feedback! Have a great day,
Sabrina
We’re planning a 17-day trip to South Korea in October 2026 with my husband and our daughters, who’ll be 9 years old.
I’d love to get your thoughts on our draft itinerary.
First, some key details:
1/ Jeju Island is a must for us. I’ve personally dreamed of going there for years after reading a novel about it. 2/ Our girls are used to road-trip style travel since they were born, so this kind of trip won’t be an issue for them. 3/ We plan to travel by train, except on Jeju where we’ll rent a car (we already have an international driver’s permit).
Itinerary:
Seoul: 1 arrival day at 10 AM + 4 full days Gyeongju: 2 days Busan: 3 days Jeju: 4 days Seoul: 2 days
Thanks for your feedback! Have a great day,
Sabrina
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
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Japan in April/May.
I’ll start my journey in Tokyo for 3 to 4 days.
I’d love your advice on accommodation, transportation, an itinerary, and whether a guide would be useful.
I’m traveling solo and could use a little reassurance.
Before I forget... how do payments work?
Thanks for your help, Petra
Thanks for your help, Petra
Hi there,
I’m looking for someone who could help me organize a trip to Japan for my niece and her son. I’ve seen that French-speaking guides are expensive, and the same goes for going through a tour operator.
Airline, local transportation, hotels, etc.
Thanks for your replies!
Betsyl

