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Japan itinerary

Posted by (Boston) on

Hello Travelers,
We are 4 adults who are extending their Viking Cruise ( it ends in Tokyo) by staying in Japan one extra week this spring. It’s our first time in Japan. We would like to see Kyoto but we know it’s crowded in early May. We were also wondering if we should head north of Tokyo to see if we could catch late season cherry blossoms.

We would rather stay in one location and travel by train to see the sights. Any recommendations on where to stay and sites to visit, other than the popular ones in Kyoto, would be appreciated. We love history and of course food.

Thanks,
Jo

Posted by
9793 posts

With one week, I recommend going north of Tokyo to Nikko on a day trip.

After doing Tokyo and Nikko, take 3 day that included Kyoto. We did one that included the fast train and Kyoto and Nara.
Kyoto is the best site to visit in Japan in my opinion.

Posted by
2231 posts

On our first trip to Japan we never stepped foot in Tokyo. On our second trip we returned immediately to Kyoto and ended with a few days in Tokyo. No regrets. Kyoto offers many historical sights and easy access to several. We stayed at the Miyako Westin both times…surrounded by restaurants and all basic needs, a two minute walk to a metro station that takes you to Fushimi Inari which was great. We also visited Nara …by train as I recall …and the bamboo forest and many other fascinating sights. The friendly folks at the front desk can suggest the best transport..metro, train or bus. Kyoto offered us tourists the Japanese cultural experience we imagined far more than Tokyo, which indeed is interesting in its own right, but Kyoto won hands down. I’d suggest you read up on Japanese customs which are in many aspects quite different than our own and unwavering in adherence. Your efforts will be well rewarded.

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