Three-week trip to Japan: feedback on our itinerary

Hi everyone,

After years of silence and wonderful memories from our exchanges during two trips to South Africa, I’m back on the forum with plans for a trip to Japan.

We’re considering traveling from June 16 to July 9. I know this isn’t the best time weather-wise, but it’s our only option, especially since we want to include climbing Mount Fuji.

Here’s our itinerary—I’d love your thoughts: - Day 1: Arrival at Haneda in the evening (Night in Tokyo) - Day 2: Tokyo (Night in Tokyo) - Day 3: Nikko (Night in Tokyo) - Day 4: Travel to Hiroshima, then visit (Night in Hiroshima) - Day 5: Day in Miyajima (Night in Hiroshima) - Day 6: Day in Kagura Monzen Tojimura (Night in Hiroshima) - Day 7: Travel to Himeji, then visit (Night in Himeji) - Day 8: Himeji (Night in Himeji) - Day 9: Travel to Koyasan (Night in Koyasan) - Day 10: Koyasan (Night in Koyasan) - Day 11: Travel to Nara (Night in Nara) - Day 12: Travel to Kyoto (Night in Kyoto) - Day 13: Kyoto (Night in Kyoto) - Day 14: Travel to Fukui (Night in Fukui) - Day 15: Travel to Kanazawa (Night in Kanazawa) - Day 16: Travel to Hakone (Night in Hakone) - Day 17: Hakone (Night in Hakone) - Day 18: Travel to Kamakura (Night in Kamakura) - Day 19: Travel to Tokyo (Night in Tokyo) - Day 20: Travel to Fujiyoshida (Night in Fujiyoshida) - Day 21: Ascent via Yoshida Trail - Day 22: Descent via Yoshida Trail (Night in Fujiyoshida) - Day 23: Travel to Tokyo (Night in Tokyo) - Day 24: Departure from Narita

Let me know if any stops seem unnecessary or if you’d add something.

I’m planning to rent a car from Himeji (Day 9) until Hakone (Day 16) to make travel easier.

Have a great day!

Thomas

Just back from Japan—I haven’t had time to write up my whole trip yet. In the meantime, here are a few suggestions for your itinerary. I traveled by train, bike, and ferry.

Starting from Hakone heading toward Hiroshima by train, you can make a stop in Himeji without staying overnight if you’re only visiting the castle. Arrive early in the morning to find a coin locker at the station for your luggage and to avoid the queue at the castle.

Then, head to Miyajima the same day (train + ferry). Spend one night on this magical island. The next day, you’ll have time to explore it. There’s a 3-hour round-trip hike to the summit.

In the late afternoon, head to Hiroshima.

Happy planning!

Hi there, Be careful not to overload your itinerary—you’ll spend all your time on transport and miss out on Japan. It’s better to take your time and come back later to keep exploring this country, which really deserves it. 😉