Feedback on second Japan trip itinerary

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 Patrick, Honestly, your itinerary is really well thought out for a second trip to Japan: it’s clear you’re looking for something beyond the "must-sees," and that’s exactly what makes the country so fascinating over time. Yes, there are quite a few moves, but they’re short and well planned, and you’re nicely alternating cities, nature, walking, and biking. The Shimanami Kaido + Nakasendo in one trip is demanding but so rewarding if you love staying active. If I had to flag just one thing: don’t underestimate the fatigue, especially after Universal Studios + travel + biking. Maybe keep a half-day "buffer" somewhere (Kyoto or Tokyo) to catch your breath. Kyoto seems like the perfect spot for a break to me. Personally, it’s the quieter cities like Takayama that left the biggest impression on me in Japan. I actually write about them often on my blog, especially the traditional accommodations and timeless atmosphere you find in certain regions. But I’m sure you experienced that on your first trip. Bottom line: great plan, mature and well considered. If you love Japan for what it truly is, you’re definitely on the right track.

Actually, I thought of this route because I don’t feel like focusing on Kyushu Island (it’s interesting, sure, but maybe for another time), and I’d rather skip the Kumano Trail in favor of the Nakasendo.

PS: I cycle often, so 70 km doesn’t scare me.

Still need to find some interesting (less "classic") things to do in Tokyo (or not?)

A transfer after a day at Universal. It’s gonna be quite a day.