I am travelling to Japan from 2nd - 10 June. Just a quick visit, flying in and out of Tokyo.
Wanting a list of MUST DOs for this country.
Planning so far to base ourselves in Osaka, perhaps with day trips to Kyoto, Kobe, Hiroshima, using the train. will be purchasing an unlimited train ticket while still in NZ. Aparently this is the most cost effective way of travel?
Want to see Mt Fuji, is this possible in June. What is the weather like that time of year. Rainy season I understand.
Any suggestions would be great!
Thanks,
Toni.
Reply to this Hello Toni and sorry for the delay in responding. I'm not the best person to speak on Japan, but have visited there.
You will need more than one day trip to Kyoto - much more - there are 17 Unesco World Heritage Sites there alone. If you are able, base yourself for part of the time in Kyoto, then you can travel to Nara as well.
My blog about my travels there details all my favourite parts:
The Strength of Silence
However, some tips - ensure you get to Kinkaku-ji early (just before the gates open). The pond is usually still in the morning, almost never in the afternoon. By comparison, Gingaku-ji is better in the afternoon as it nestles against a hill to its east that keeps the place in shade until later in the morning. The famous Kiyomizu-dera is again, nestled on that same hill so it in the light later in the day, BUT, late afternoon means if you want to enjoy the view over Kyoto you are facing west, directly into the sun.
Have you thought about staying in a love hotel - really only applicable if you are a man and woman couple? A very interesting experience and amongst the cheapest accommodation you will find in Tokyo. My blog on it is here:
Loving the Love Hotels
I've not been, but have heard that Himeji Castle is good for a picture or two (inside is not as impressive), and have been given a very strong recommendation on Koyasan (Mount Koya). Both are near to Osaka.
I normally don't like posting links to my blogs in answers to questions on the forums, but I cannot think of any other way to best explain my suggestions.
Reply to this In response to: Msg #170088
wow, thanks so much for this info! we are now planning on spending 2 nights in Kyoto, with 3 nights in Osaka, so look forward to reading your blogs on these places!
Reply to this From Osaka it is easier to get to both Kobe and Hiroshima. Re your pass, there are two types of Japan Rail Pass - but the ordinary class is the best, even though it does not include access to the most expensive and fastest Shinkansen (Nozomi, Mizuho). The "slower" Shinkansen (Hikari, Sakura) are still fast by the way and you will be more than happy with your choice.
For accommodation, definitely aim for a Ryokan, overall cheaper than western style options and a great experience.
Reply to this Hi Toni
If you like nature, I recommend visiting Nara park - you can feed the deer there, its unforgettable experience. And the park itself is beautiful. http://www.travelblog.org/Asia/Japan/Nara/Nara/blog-771201.html
To experience the atmosphere of old Japan, visit the historic district of Kyoto, full of women dressed like geishas. You can also buy souvenirs there - souvenir shops are all along the streets.
As for the famous castles - one will be enough and you can choose any, they are all alike. They are impressive from the exterior and have nice viewpoints on the top floor, but not much to see inside 😊
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