Question:

Claire

Hello! My boyfriend & I are going to Japan for the first time in February. We'll have about 2 weeks and we fly in/out of Tokyo. We're thinking of spending 4 nights in Tokyo and then things on the horizon include Kyoto, Hiroshima and Okinawa. Any tips on whether that'll be too much to fit in? Things to cut or add? Any tips welcome!

Humans say...

Nicole

There is an amazing snow festival in sapporo from feb 6th to 12th.

Greg

4 of us are actually heading there the same time to go snowboarding and siigjtseeing, here are some screen shots I've taking so far for info lo

Greg

What dates? We're headed Feb.15th-27th

James

Himeji Castle is worth a look and it recently had a major renovation.

Jason

make sure to purchase JR pass before you come to Japan. it's a must. 7 days unlimited Shinkansen rides for only 29.110 yen.

Greg

When I buy the pass it asks me to select what day I will be entering Japan, thing is the day I want the pass to begin and the day I get there are different....does it start from when you bring in the voucher at the train station or from that date you select online do you know?

Jason

I suggest you to buy it at JTB, they are on the lower lobby of Fairmont hotel on west Georgia in Vancouver. You can call them at 1-800-663-0229. Hope that helps
Greg. I`m current in Tokyo Japan and purchased mine almost a month ago and planning on using it next week. This is my second time using the JR pass.

Greg

Perfect thank you!, is it any cheaper DT van then online...it's 340canadian online for one week Jason hung Maclean

Jason

330 CAD for 7 days

Jason

http://www.jtb.ca/eweb/jrpass/alljrpass.aspx
JTB.CA
JTB CANADA WEB

Rob

You can buy 'Welcome to Japan' flights for 10,000 JY. This will save you the very long ferry ride to and from Okinawa.

Carol

Get the train pass. You have to apply and get delivery from outside of Japan
https://www.japan-rail-pass.com/?currency-code=USD...
JAPAN-RAIL-PASS.COM
? Japan Rail Pass - Order Online & Travel Japan from $ 242

Rob

The JR pass does not work in Okinawa. There is only one monorail that is relatively cheap (100-200 JY)

Kathy

Rob, what are these Welcome to Japan flights? We're headed to Japan in March and I know about the JR but don't know what these flights might be.

Jason

more info about "welcome to Japan fares" http://www.his-canada.com/air/en_jp_kukan.php
HIS-CANADA.COM
Japan Domestic Air Pass｜H.I.S. Canada

Britt

Go to nara!

Paul

Yakushima island. Takayama. Kyoto for sure. Niko.

Mike

Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, Jigokudani Monkey Park. Stay a night or two in a traditional on sending hotel. Near the monkey park you can get private access to the baths after the day trippers leave town.

Lindsay

following!

A.I. says...

Japan Itinerary Tips for First-Time Visitors

Japan is a fascinating destination with a rich culture, stunning natural landscapes, and modern cities. A two-week trip can provide a good introduction to this amazing country, but careful planning is essential to make the most of your time.

Your Proposed Itinerary

Your plan to spend 4 nights in Tokyo and then visit Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Okinawa is ambitious but doable with some adjustments.

Highlights:

Tokyo (4 nights): Explore the bustling capital, visit iconic sights like the Imperial Palace, Sensoji Temple, and Shibuya Crossing. Don't miss the vibrant neighborhoods like Shinjuku and Harajuku.
Kyoto (3-4 nights): Experience the cultural heart of Japan with its numerous temples, shrines, gardens, and traditional neighborhoods like Gion.
Hiroshima (1-2 nights): Pay your respects at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, and explore the nearby Miyajima Island with its famous floating torii gate.
Okinawa (3-4 nights, optional): Relax on the beautiful beaches, explore the Churaumi Aquarium, and immerse yourself in the unique Okinawan culture.

Recommendations

While your proposed itinerary is achievable, it may feel a bit rushed, especially if you want to experience the destinations at a more leisurely pace. Here are a few recommendations:

Prioritize Tokyo and Kyoto: These two cities offer a wealth of cultural and historical experiences, and you may want to allocate more time to explore them thoroughly. Consider adding a night or two to your stay in each city.
Consider skipping Okinawa: While Okinawa is a beautiful destination, it may be too ambitious to include it in a two-week itinerary, especially if you want to avoid feeling rushed. Alternatively, you could plan a separate trip dedicated solely to exploring Okinawa and the surrounding islands.
Add a day trip or overnight stay: If you have extra time, consider adding a day trip or overnight stay in a nearby destination like Nara, Nikko, or Kamakura, which offer beautiful temples, shrines, and natural scenery.
Use efficient transportation: Japan's public transportation system, including the shinkansen (bullet train), is efficient and convenient. Plan your travel between cities carefully to make the most of your time.
Immerse yourself in local experiences: In addition to visiting famous sights, try to experience local customs, attend festivals (if your timing allows), and savor authentic Japanese cuisine.

Remember, this is your first visit to Japan, so it's essential to strike a balance between seeing as much as possible and allowing yourself time to truly experience the unique culture and atmosphere of each destination.

Wishing you a wonderful and memorable trip to Japan!

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Is Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Okinawa doable in a 2-week Japan trip?