Hi! We’re traveling as a couple for 3 weeks in Japan in November. We’d love to visit Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Miyajima Island. Would anyone have a great itinerary to share? Thanks so much!

Karine First trip

Hi there, We’re planning a trip to Japan with my boyfriend in November 2025. We’ll have 12 full days (excluding flight time), arriving in Tokyo and departing from Osaka. Do you have any itinerary ideas to recommend? We’re up for adventure and discovering the local culture. We’d also love to do some typical activities: watch a sumo match, experience a tea ceremony, stay in a ryokan, etc... We’re open to all suggestions! Thanks! 🙂

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

Hi there, I’ve got a few questions about Kyoto for our trip in early November (we’re staying 5 days): 1) Is it worth spending a day in Kurama/Kibune from Kyoto? Has anyone tried the onsen in Kurama? 2) Visiting Fushimi Inari for sunset and wandering around in the evening—good idea? 3) Going to the Gion Corner show in Kyoto? 4) Skipping the more touristy temples in Kyoto (Golden Temple, Silver Temple) to see less crowded ones like Shinshogokuraku-ji and Tofuku-ji? 5) Any recommendations for a kaiseki dinner (under 10,000 yen)? Thanks!

Hi there, My girlfriend (23) and I (24) are heading to Japan for the first time from October 20th to November 6th. Here’s our itinerary:

6 nights in Tokyo 1 night in Hakone (ryokan already booked) 4 nights in Kyoto (hotel already booked) 2 nights in Osaka 4 nights back in Tokyo I’d like to book hotels for Tokyo (both stays) and Osaka, but I’ve gotten so many different recommendations.

I’ve read that Shinjuku is the place to be for its huge hub, accessibility, and things to do, but I’ve also heard about Shibuya, Asakusa, and Ueno. I’ve looked at hotels, and first off, I’m surprised by the prices compared to what I’ve seen on forums (I guess inflation’s hit here too… and maybe I’m late to the booking game?). I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed with all the options.

For our first stay in Tokyo, I’d prefer a hotel (not a residence or Airbnb) since we’ll be arriving at night, and it’s our first time in Japan. It’d be great to have a place with a reception, staff who speak at least a little English, and can give us some guidance. For the second stay, we could consider other options if it’s better. Budget-wise, we can go up to 150–180 € per night, but if we can save some money to spend elsewhere, that’d be amazing!

I’m open to all recommendations, hotel suggestions, or any other tips for Tokyo (first stay), Osaka, and Tokyo (second stay).

Thanks so much!

Hi there! 😉

I’ve already created a post for our entire trip to Japan, but I’d love to focus specifically on our stay in Tokyo here. We (two couples of friends) will be spending 6 full days there in early November. Here’s what we’ve planned so far. We’d really appreciate your feedback to validate—or not—our schedule, and especially to hear your tips. Thanks in advance! 😉

DAY 0: Arrival in Tokyo in the evening, so rest and dinner near the hotel.

DAY 1:

09:00 – Shinjuku Gyoen Park

Must-see: ✔ Japanese garden (red bridge, pond) ✔ French garden (perspective and rose garden) ✔ English garden (lawns and maple trees) Photo spot: Red bridge + red maples (koyo).

11:00 – Harajuku & Takeshita Street

Walking route:

Start with Takeshita-dori (kawaii fashion, Japanese crepes). Walk up to Omotesandō (designer architecture: Dior, Prada).

Don’t miss: ✔ Kiddy Land (toys, souvenirs) ✔ Tokyu Plaza Omotesandō (entrance with escalators and mirrors → iconic photo)

12:30 – Lunch

Afuri Harajuku (yuzu ramen, light and fragrant). Alternative: Uogashi Nihon-Ichi (standing sushi, quick and fresh).

14:00 – Meiji-jingū (optional but recommended)

Access: From Omotesandō, enter through the large wooden torii. Must-see: ✔ Decorative sake barrels ✔ Forest path (zen atmosphere) ✔ Main pavilion (respect the purification ritual at the entrance). Duration: 45 min.

16:30 – Return to hotel / rest

JR Yamanote Line from Harajuku → Shinjuku (5 min).

18:30 – Evening in Yurakucho (Gado-shita)

DAY 2 09:00 – Visit to Asakusa

Walking route:

Kaminarimon Gate → photo under the large red lantern. Nakamise-dori → shopping street (souvenirs, snacks: melon pan, senbei). Sensō-ji Temple → main pavilion, five-story pagoda.

Don’t miss: ✔ Omikuji (fortune-telling draw) ✔ Photo with the pagoda and Tokyo Skytree in the background.

11:30 – Akihabara

Walking route: ✔ Yodobashi Camera (gadgets, electronics) ✔ Mandarake (figurines, manga) ✔ Super Potato (retro games)

13:00 – Lunch

Quick option: Ichiran Ramen (Akihabara). Local option: Tendon Tenya (affordable tempura).

14:30 – Free time / shopping

Explore the small alleys for anime shops, figurines, gashapon.

16:30 – Departure for Toyosu (teamLab Planets)

Transport:

JR Yamanote Line from Akihabara → Shimbashi (15 min) Yurikamome Line from Shimbashi → Shin-Toyosu (15 min)

Tip: Book a 6:30 PM slot to enjoy the evening atmosphere.

18:30 – teamLab Planets

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours. Tip: Bring a towel (barefoot experience in water). Mandatory reservation: (official website).

20:30 – Dinner

Option on-site: DMM Café (Toyosu). Option back in Shinjuku: Izakaya (Torikizoku or Teyandei).

DAY 3:

Excursion to Mount Fuji (Kawaguchiko)

DAY 4:

09:00 – East Gardens of the Imperial Palace

Must-see: ✔ Ruins of Edo Castle ✔ Nijubashi Bridge (iconic photo) ✔ Museum of the Imperial Collections (free) Duration: 1h15. Tip: Open exceptionally this day (public holiday).

10:30 – Walk to Ginza

Walk: 15 min via Marunouchi Naka-dori (chic street with shops and cafés). Tip: Enjoy the autumn decorations and designer façades.

11:00 – Ginza

Must-see: ✔ Ginza Six (modern shopping center) ✔ Nissan Crossing (futuristic car exhibit) ✔ Wako Clock Tower (iconic photo)

14:30 – Shibuya

Walking route: ✔ Shibuya Crossing (photo from Starbucks Tsutaya) ✔ Hachikō Statue ✔ Shibuya Scramble Square → Shibuya Sky (panoramic view of Tokyo and Mount Fuji if the sky is clear). Shopping: Loft, Tokyu Hands, Shibuya 109 (fashion).

17:30 – Return to hotel / rest

JR Yamanote Line from Shibuya → Shinjuku (7 min).

19:30 – Dinner

Izakaya option: Izakaya Tofuro Shinjuku (traditional atmosphere). Modern option: Nabezo Shinjuku (all-you-can-eat shabu-shabu).

DAY 5:

10:00 – Ghibli Museum

Duration: 2 hours. Must-see: ✔ Permanent exhibits (Totoro, My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away) ✔ Exclusive short films (Saturn Theater) Tip: Photos are not allowed inside, but there are beautiful spots outside.

12:00 – Stroll in Inokashira Park

Must-see: ✔ Central pond (boat rental available) ✔ Benzaiten Shrine Duration: 30 min.

14:30 – Nakameguro & Daikanyama

Transport: JR Chuo Line from Mitaka → Shibuya, then Tokyu Toyoko Line → Nakameguro (40 min). Must-see: ✔ Walk along the Meguro River (trendy cafés, design shops) ✔ T-Site Daikanyama (magnificent architecture) Coffee break: Onibus Coffee Nakameguro (artisanal coffee).

17:30 – Return to Shinjuku

Transport: Tokyu Toyoko Line → Shibuya → JR Yamanote Line → Shinjuku.

DAY 6:

Free morning (shopping or relaxation)

Suggestions: ✔ Shopping at Lumine Shinjuku or Isetan ✔ Stop by Don Quijote for souvenirs ✔ Or Thermae-Yu Onsen (if you want a relaxing morning before departure).

14:45 – Arrival in Odaiba

Walking route: ✔ Aqua City (shopping, bay view) ✔ Statue of Liberty (photo with Rainbow Bridge) ✔ DiverCity Tokyo Plaza (giant Gundam statue) Immersive option: Immersive Fort Tokyo (if you want a fun indoor activity).

16:30 – Sunset over Rainbow Bridge

Best spot: Esplanade in front of Aqua City or Odaiba Beach. Photo tip: Wait for the bridge lights to turn on (around 5 PM).

18:30 – Dinner in Odaiba 20:00 – Departure for Tokyo Tower

Transport:

Yurikamome Line from Daiba → Shimbashi → Oedo Line → Akabanebashi (30 min).

Tokyo Tower: ✔ Incredible night view of illuminated Tokyo. ✔ Duration: 45 min to 1 hour.

21:30 – Return to Shinjuku

Transport: Oedo Line → Shinjuku (15 min).

And there you have it—I hope I didn’t go on too long! 😉 Thanks everyone for your advice....

Hi there,

Having already visited some of the "classic" spots during my first trip to Japan in 2006, I’d like to show my partner some slightly lesser-known places (all relative, of course!) for our trip planned in November 2025, while still keeping a few of the country’s "must-sees."

Here’s the rough itinerary I’ve sketched out so far:

- Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo – Night in Tokyo - Day 2: Depart for Kamakura – Night in Kamakura or return to Tokyo - Day 3: Depart for Matsumoto – Visit the castle – Night in Matsumoto - Day 4: Matsumoto – Narai – Tsumago – Night in Tsumago - Day 5: Tsumago – Magome (hike) – Night in Magome - Days 6, 7, 8, 9: Depart for Kyoto – Sightseeing – Nights in Kyoto - Day 10: Depart for Kinosaki Onsen – Night in Kinosaki - Day 11: Explore the area around Kinosaki (Takeno? Izushi?) – Night in Kinosaki - Day 12: Depart for Himeji – Visit the castle – Night in Himeji or Hiroshima - Day 13: Miyajima Island – Night in Hiroshima - Day 14: Depart for Onomichi – Night in Onomichi - Day 15: Bike day to Ikuchi Jima / return by ferry – Night in Onomichi - Day 16: Depart for Tomo-no-Ura then Kurashiki – Night in Kurashiki - Day 17: Depart for Okayama – Visit the garden – Night in Okayama - Day 18: Kibi Plain bike ride – Night in Okayama - Day 19: ??? - Days 20, 21, 22: Tokyo – Nights in Tokyo

I’m struggling a bit to gauge how long the travel times will be, despite my online research, so I’d love to hear your thoughts and advice on this itinerary.

Thanks so much in advance for your feedback!

Hello,

What a joy to be back on this forum that I’ve browsed for so many years :-)!

I’m heading to Japan with my partner in November 2025. This will be my second trip there and his first.

I was planning to go from Tokyo to Matsumoto, which I haven’t visited before, and from there, check out Shirahone Onsen and then hike from Magome to Tsumago. However, after reading several travel journals, I’ve realized that the village of Shirakawa-go and its surroundings look amazing. Back in 2006, I visited Takayama, which I loved, but I don’t want to stay there again.

To visit the places mentioned above (Shirahone Onsen, Shirakawa-go, Magome, and Tsumago), I’m thinking that a car might be more convenient than public transport, especially for getting from Shirakawa-go to Magome. Could you confirm if that’s the case? If so, is it easy to rent a car for a few days to do a loop starting from Matsumoto?

Thanks in advance for your valuable tips.

Have a great evening

Hi everyone, and thanks to all the contributors on this Japan forum who’ll help me prepare an upcoming trip with my wife in October–November this year. We’ve already been to Japan before, back in 2013 for 15 days in August, visiting the major tourist hubs: Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Himeji, and Ogimachi. This time, we’re taking more time—about a month—with the following points of interest: Start of the trip with a few days in Tokyo Osaka International Exposition on October 11–12, 2025 Jidai Matsuri Festival in KYOTO on October 22, 2025 Karatsu Kunchi Festival from November 2–4 Our goal is to blend into the crowd and make connections in festive atmospheres. Do these stops sound interesting to you? Is it a good idea to stay in a central location between October 10 and 23 to get to the Osaka Expo and the Jidai Matsuri Festival in Kyoto using public transport, and to explore the region in between? Between Kyoto and the KARATSU Festival from October 23 to November 1, we’re thinking of traveling by shinkansen with a stopover for a few days to visit Hiroshima and the surrounding area. Looking forward to your thoughts if you have time—this is just a first draft, and we’d love to dive into more details.

Hi there, These cities aren’t in the guidebooks much, but they’re absolutely worth a detour—just 180 km from Osaka and perfect for a stop on your way back from the south or heading down from Osaka. I’ve been here for five days, and the autumn colors are simply stunning: bright reds, vibrant yellows, deep maroons, and lush greens against a crystal-blue sky. Fall here is magical. Plus, the canal in central Okayama (Nishigawa) is all lit up. Hardly any Western tourists stop here, but there are plenty of Japanese visitors.

Hi, Just so you know, when you take the JR from the airport to central Tokyo, the company has introduced a baggage fee of 900 yen (5.50 €) per person for foreigners. There’s a dedicated line for this, and you’re directed by a JR agent. If you take the Keisei network from Narita, there’s no fee for now. As a reminder, the JR Pass has tripled in price since October 2023. It’s not essential if you’re staying less than 3 weeks—consider the bus instead, which is much cheaper. Sure, it takes longer, but it’s budget-friendly.

Since October 1, 2024, agents have been handing out flyers to tourists at airport arrivals with recommendations about theft in hotels. Over the past few months, there’s been a rise in stolen phones, laptops, and other electronics from rooms. The advice is to lock everything in a suitcase with a key or code when you’re not around to avoid issues. Japan’s economy isn’t doing well right now, and some locals are struggling financially, blaming tourists for rising prices. Of course, the current exchange rate is great for us—165 yen to the euro lets us eat ramen for next to nothing—but inflation has hit them hard.

Departure imminent on 10/27. The trip will be a full 18 days. I still have a few questions about transportation for certain legs:

Day 1: Arrival in Fukuoka in the evening at 7:30 PM

Day 2: Fukuoka city

Day 3: Ukiha (car or train?)

Day 4: Itoshima

Day 5: 11/01/2024: Okawa, Omuta (forge), and Yanagawa for the Yanagawa Hakushu Matsuri. A bit ambitious for a single day?

Day 6: Arita / Owakachiyama / rice fields in the evening: Is it better to go from Fukuoka to Arita by car or train?

Day 7: Sasebo + Kujukushima Pearl + fireworks show Day 8: Karatsu (Yobuko market + cave + cape) + Matsuri Kanchi Day 9: Kashima + garden + Tara Day 10: Higashi Sonogi, overnight in Nagasaki. Is it better to return the car in Arita or Nagasaki? Day 11: Nagasaki Day 12: Nagasaki, overnight in Fukuoka, so departure by train from Nagasaki Day 13: Munakata and Oshima, and in the evening, Hanabi Kama

Day 14: Mount Hiko, Toho, Soeda. Is there a pottery village? With or without hands-on experience?

Day 15: Yame (Hoshino tea visit) and Kurume Masure workshop

Days 16, 17, 18, 19: Fukuoka city and maybe Nokonoshima or Kitakyushu

Any suggestions? Does this seem balanced?

Thanks and have a great day

Hello Hello, We’re two couples of friends heading to this amazing country and need your help to validate our itinerary. First, I’ll share the overall plan for our trip. I can go into more detail for each day if everything looks good to you. Thanks Thanks

30/10 Arrival at HND 31/10 Tokyo: Chiyoda, Yurakucho & Shinjuku 01/11 Asakusa, Ueno, Akihabara & TeamLab Planets 02/11 Day trip to Mount Fuji (Kawaguchiko) 03/11 Yanaka, Ueno, Shibuya & Izakaya 04/11 Ghibli Museum & Kichijoji 05/11 Shopping and Odaiba at sunset 06/11 Departure for Kyoto & first discoveries 07/11 Arashiyama, bamboo grove & zen temples 08/11 Fushimi Inari, Gion 09/11 Kyoto → Himeji → Hiroshima 10/11 Hiroshima (morning) → Osaka (afternoon) 11 & 12/11 Exploring Osaka and return to France 🙂

Hello,

I’m reaching out for your help because I’m struggling to figure out the best train and car route for a 25-night trip in Kyushu. Here are the cities I’d like to visit, along with my current itinerary, which doesn’t feel quite right. I’m also wondering where the best places to pick up and drop off the rental car would be. International flights from Osaka + the SL Hitoyoshi train ride are part of the plan.

Current (unsatisfactory) draft itinerary I’m trying to optimize: Day 1: Arrival in Osaka Day 2-3: 2 nights in Osaka Day 4: Osaka to Izumi (Kagoshima Prefecture) via overnight train to Izumi Day 5: Full day in Izumi, overnight in Izumi Day 6: Izumi to Hitoyoshi, stopping via Kumamoto (SL Hitoyoshi train) Day 7: Hitoyoshi Day 8: Ebino + overnight in Kobayashi or Takaharu Day 9: Cape Toi + overnight Day 10: Koshima + overnight near Obi or Miyazaki? Day 11: Nichinan Coast / Obi / Udo Jingu / Aoshima Day 12: Miyazaki Day 13: Aya + overnight in Miyazaki Day 14: Hyuga + overnight in Nobeoka Day 15: Around Nobeoka + overnight in Nobeoka Day 16: Shiiba + overnight in Shiiba Day 17: Shiiba + drive to Yamaga + overnight Day 18: Yamaga Day 19: Yamaga Day 20-22: Amakusa Day 23: Kumamoto Day 24: Kumamoto + overnight in Osaka Day 25: Departure for France

Does this seem balanced? Are there any ways to optimize travel times or the logical flow of the route? Where should I pick up and drop off the rental car?

Thanks in advance if anyone can help me think this through!

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 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.

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!

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

Hi there, I’m going on an organized trip to Japan in April and will have two free days in Tokyo. I’d love some tips on what to do during those two days. Thanks

Hi there, Barely back from my trip (autumn 2025) and I already want to go again! I’ve already done a 3-week stay (Tokyo-Kamakura-Nikko-Japanese Alps-Kyoto-Osaka-Koyasan-Nara).

So this time, a different trip: Day 1: departure Day 2: arrive in Osaka (stroll around the center in the afternoon) Day 3: day trip to Minoh Falls + Katsuo-ji Temple Day 4: Universal Studios. 1h20 train in the evening to Okayama Day 5: visit Okayama (Korakuen Gardens and the castle), then a 25-minute train to Kurashiki (evening stroll) Day 6: 45-minute bus to Fukuyama (day trip to Tomo no Ura). 20-minute train in the evening to Onomichi Day 7: electric bike excursion on the Shimanami Kaido (70 km round trip), return to Onomichi in the evening Day 8: stroll around the heights of Onomichi. In the afternoon, 1h20 train to Takehara Day 9: stroll in Takehara. In the afternoon, train to Hiroshima Day 10: day trip to Miyajima Day 11: explore Hiroshima, then train to Kyoto Day 12: Kyoto (Kinkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji area in the morning). Bus to Takao/Togano in the afternoon Day 13: Kyoto (northeast area—Shugakuin Imperial Villa and nearby temples in the morning), relaxed return to Gion in the afternoon via less crowded neighborhoods/temples Day 14: day trip to Uji Day 15: Kyoto (northern Arashiyama area in the morning). Train to Nakatsugawa in the afternoon Day 16: Day 1 of the Nakasendo Trail to Nagiso Day 17: Day 2 to Kiso Fukushima Day 18: Day 3 to Matsumoto (with train from Narai-juku) Day 19: train to Tokyo Day 20: Tokyo (still figuring this out). I’ve seen Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Asakusa. Day 21: return flight Day 22: arrival

Yes, there are a lot of short transports, but that doesn’t bother me.

Any thoughts? Thanks, Patrick

Hi there,

Since I’m completely unfamiliar with Japanese culture—we’ll be visiting in May—I have this question that might seem silly, but I’d rather not take any chances: I’m planning to wear long shorts (Bermuda shorts) during our trip. Could this be offensive or cause issues for certain visits?

The thing is, I’ll have to wear a knee brace, and it doesn’t stick well to pants but works much better directly on my skin. Since it’s too thick to wear underneath, Bermuda shorts seem like the perfect solution—case closed! Any thoughts?

Best, Caussat

Hi there,

We’re thinking of spending 3 weeks in Asia this fall to visit some of the major capitals on this vast continent. We’d like to get a (very rough) sense of just how fast Asia is moving compared to what we see in the West (we’re from Quebec). For now, our very preliminary list includes Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Singapore. There are obviously plenty of other options—Seoul, Shanghai, etc.

What do you think? Thanks in advance!

Hi there!

I’m visiting Tokyo and the Five Lakes region, as well as Kyushu, in February-March. I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed when it comes to choosing onsen and ryokan.

-I’d love to find a nice onsen and possibly a great ryokan in the Five Lakes region to relax a bit after visiting Tokyo.

-I’m also looking for some lovely onsen/rotenburo in Kyushu, as well as a nice ryokan to wrap up our little trip.

Unfortunately, I’m completely lost among all the options. Do you have any recommendations for me?

For Kyushu, I’d love to find an onsen where the outdoor baths are really surrounded by nature. And if possible, a mixed-gender bath so I can enjoy it with my partner (or a private bath, but I get the impression private baths are never outdoors?). As for the ryokan budget, 450 € per night is unfortunately the absolute max...

Thanks in advance! :)

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

Hi there, We’re heading to southern Japan for 15 days with the family in August. We just checked the train tickets. What a nasty shock! Any tips for traveling on a budget? Thanks

Hi, My friend and I are heading to Japan from March 25 to April 15, 2026. Do you have any tips or places that really charmed you? We’d love to spend time with locals. Thanks. Jasssmine

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

Hi there,

We’ll be arriving soon at Tokyo Haneda Airport (from Paris) at 6:30 PM.

Could you tell me if there’s an ATM in the arrivals hall where we can withdraw cash? If so, does the ATM charge a fee? (I’m not talking about my bank’s fee, but the ATM’s own commission.)

Thanks in advance for your reply,

Have a great day

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

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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.

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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.

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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).

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Days 16–17: Nikko (May 9–10) Route: Aomori → Nikko (~6 h).

Activities: Toshogu Shrine, Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji. Stay: Nikko.

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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 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!