Itinerary Suggestions
With two weeks in Japan and flying in and out of Tokyo, you can explore Tokyo itself and venture out to other nearby cities. Here's a suggested itinerary:
- Tokyo (5-6 days): Explore popular attractions like Sensoji Temple, Imperial Palace, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and Tokyo Disneyland (for the toddler). Don't miss the unique experiences like a Robot Restaurant show or a sumo wrestling tournament if they coincide with your visit.
- Kyoto (3-4 days): Take a day trip or stay overnight in Kyoto to immerse yourself in the traditional Japanese culture. Visit iconic sites like Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkakuji Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and Nijo Castle.
- Hakone (2-3 days): Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Mount Fuji and the hot springs in Hakone. Take a scenic ride on the Hakone Ropeway or a pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi.
- Osaka (2 days): Explore the vibrant city of Osaka, known for its delicious street food and attractions like Dotonbori, Osaka Castle, and the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Tips
April is an excellent time to witness the beautiful cherry blossoms in Japan. Here are some tips for cherry blossom viewing:
- Check the cherry blossom forecast to plan your visit around peak bloom times in each city.
- Popular spots for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in Tokyo include Shinjuku Gyoen, Ueno Park, and the Meguro River.
- In Kyoto, head to the Philosopher's Path, Maruyama Park, or the gardens of iconic temples like Kinkakuji and Ginkakuji.
- Bring a picnic mat or a tarp to enjoy a hanami party under the blooming cherry trees.
- Arrive early in the morning or late evening to avoid crowds and capture stunning photographs.
Accommodation Tips
Traveling with a toddler can be challenging, so it's essential to find comfortable and convenient accommodations. Here are some tips:
- Airbnb: Consider renting an entire apartment or house through Airbnb for more space and amenities like a kitchen. This can be more comfortable and cost-effective for families.
- Family-friendly hotels: Some budget-friendly hotel chains like Toyoko Inn, Dormy Inn, and Super Hotel offer family rooms with extra space and amenities like cribs and bathtubs.
- Ryokans (traditional inns): For a unique cultural experience, stay at a ryokan with family rooms. However, be mindful that some ryokans may not be as toddler-friendly due to their traditional design.
- Location: Look for accommodations near major transportation hubs or attractions you plan to visit to minimize travel time with a
Katerina
We are heading to Japan in April for 2 weeks. Flying in and out of Tokyo. Any itinerary suggestions? Cherry blossom viewing tips? Good air bnb's or hotels or budget friendly accommodations? We will be traveling with a toddler (about 20 months old at the time) so are trying to plan accordingly. Would love any tips and suggestions