Nagoya, Nara, Osaka, Kyoto, Hirosima, Tokyo - 3 weeks trip itinerary
During our recent trip to Japan, we had the opportunity to explore three distinct regions: Nagoya, Nara, Osaka, and Kyoto in the center; Hiroshima in the south; and Tokyo further up north. I want to share some of our experiences with you.
Nagoya
If you're planning a trip to Japan, consider flying into Nagoya or Fukuoka from London Gatwick. We found that flights to these destinations were often less expensive than those to Tokyo or Osaka, with our return tickets costing less than £400 per person. Starting our journey in Nagoya was a great decision - the city was much more relaxed and less crowded than other major cities, making it the perfect place to unwind and explore. Plus, it was surprisingly affordable to travel within Nagoya in comparison to cities like Osaka and Tokyo. We enjoyed trying out local cuisine, shopping, and indulging in the onsen hot springs, making Nagoya an ideal destination for any traveler looking for an authentic and budget-friendly Japanese experience.
Nagoya
If you're planning a trip to Japan, consider flying into Nagoya or Fukuoka from London Gatwick. We found that flights to these destinations were often less expensive than those to Tokyo or Osaka, with our return tickets costing less than £400 per person. Starting our journey in Nagoya was a great decision - the city was much more relaxed and less crowded than other major cities, making it the perfect place to unwind and explore. Plus, it was surprisingly affordable to travel within Nagoya in comparison to cities like Osaka and Tokyo. We enjoyed trying out local cuisine, shopping, and indulging in the onsen hot springs, making Nagoya an ideal destination for any traveler looking for an authentic and budget-friendly Japanese experience.
SHORYUDO Pass:
For those planning a trip to Nagoya, the Shoryudo pass is a fantastic deal at just 600 yen for a one day pass. This pass grants you unlimited access to local buses and metro lines, including the sightseeing tour bus that takes you to the most popular local attractions. Additionally, the Shoryudo pass offers discounts at many local museums, making it an excellent value for anyone looking to make the most of their time in Nagoya. Don't miss out on this affordable and convenient way to explore everything the city has to offer!
https://www.nagoya-info.jp/en/access/getting_around_nagoya/discount_tickets_passes/1-day_tickets_nagoya.html
Toyota Museum:
If you're a car enthusiast, the Toyota Museum is an absolute must-see. We were blown away by the live demonstrations and interactive exhibits that showcased the history and innovation of this renowned brand. For a sneak peek, check out this video:
Ozone Onsen Yu no Shiro:
This establishment boasts beautiful and modern facilities that are sure to make you feel relaxed and pampered. We particularly enjoyed the delicious food served at this location, which exceeded our expectations in both taste and presentation. Don't miss out on this fantastic destination if you're looking for an authentic and memorable onsen experience.
http://www.p-castle.co.jp/yunoshiro/
Osaka and Kyoto
While there is no shortage of information online about Osaka and Kyoto, it's worth noting that Osaka can be quite overwhelming, particularly at Osaka Central Station. This bustling transportation hub connects a dozen different train and metro lines, and the building itself interconnects with adjacent stations and skyscrapers. It's not uncommon to get lost in Osaka station - we found ourselves walking for hours without leaving the building! While signage could be improved, a helpful tip is to look for markings on the ground. Following markings of the same color may lead you to the specific metro line you're looking for. Be prepared to spend at least 30 minutes to an hour navigating the station each time you visit.
While there is no shortage of information online about Osaka and Kyoto, it's worth noting that Osaka can be quite overwhelming, particularly at Osaka Central Station. This bustling transportation hub connects a dozen different train and metro lines, and the building itself interconnects with adjacent stations and skyscrapers. It's not uncommon to get lost in Osaka station - we found ourselves walking for hours without leaving the building! While signage could be improved, a helpful tip is to look for markings on the ground. Following markings of the same color may lead you to the specific metro line you're looking for. Be prepared to spend at least 30 minutes to an hour navigating the station each time you visit.
Trains
Traveling between Osaka and Kyoto is both convenient and affordable, with frequent transportation options available at a reasonable cost. If you're planning to make the trip, there's no need to book tickets in advance - you can simply purchase them on the day of travel or use your IC travel card. With no advance planning required, you can easily enjoy the flexibility and spontaneity that comes with exploring these incredible cities.
Kyoto is brimming with incredible sights and experiences, so if you're planning a visit, it's best to arrive early in the day or allocate at least two full days to explore. We arrived in Kyoto around 11am and found ourselves feeling rushed toward the end of the day as we tried to see everything on our list. To truly appreciate all that this city has to offer, plan accordingly and give yourself ample time to soak in the beauty and culture of Kyoto.
Nara
ThereNara is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do, so it's no surprise that there's plenty of information available online. If you're looking for a great starting point, be sure to check out the Nara Visitor Centre & Inn at https://www.sarusawa.nara.jp/. The knowledgeable staff there offer excellent advice and can answer any questions you may have about the local area. Even better, they offer a variety of free activities such as calligraphy and origami lessons that are perfect for anyone looking to experience Japanese culture firsthand. We recommend getting an early start in Nara to ensure you have enough time to explore all this incredible city has to offer.
Hiroshima
For easy access to the top attractions in Hiroshima, consider taking the tour bus with a stop just outside the train station. This convenient option is even covered by the JR pass. When in Hiroshima, a visit to the Memorial Peace Museum and Park is an absolute must. After a day of sightseeing, be sure to try the local delicacy, Hiroshimayaki - a unique dish that you won't find anywhere else. Check out this article for more information on the must-try foods in Hiroshima: https://trip101.com/article/10-must-try-food-in-hiroshima
A day trip to Hiroshima wouldn't be complete without a visit to Miyajima. With proper planning, you can easily fit in a boat trip to this beautiful island, which is also covered by the JR pass. Be sure to check out this comprehensive guide for more information on visiting Miyajima: https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3401.html. The island's stunning scenery is especially breathtaking at sunset, so be sure to plan accordingly and soak in the beauty of Miyajima before heading back to Hiroshima.
Tokyo
If you're planning to take the Shinkansen to Tokyo with your Japan Rail Pass, it's important to double-check the train service shown on the screen before boarding. Some Shinkansen trains are not covered by the pass, but you can easily check which ones to use in the information leaflet that comes with your card. Typically, these trains arrive quite frequently, so be sure to review your options before jumping aboard to avoid any unexpected expenses.
Tokyo is a vibrant city with endless sights and attractions. If you're a fan of Japanese animation, be sure to check out the Ghibli Museum. However, keep in mind that tickets sell out quickly after they're released each month, so it's important to stay on top of the schedule and book through the official website as soon as possible. You'll find the museum located in a beautiful park setting, making for a perfect day trip during your time in Tokyo. Visit http://www.ghibli-museum.jp/en/ for more information.
The Emerging Science Museum is an unforgettable experience that we highly recommend. From interactive exhibits to cutting-edge technology, this museum showcases the very best of modern science in a fun and accessible way. If you're looking for a unique and thought-provoking attraction to add to your itinerary, the Emerging Science Museum is definitely worth a visit.
Also the Digital Art Museum, although entry was quite pricey.
Mt. Fuji
As we made our way out of Tokyo, we decided to take a detour and see Mt. Fuji - and we're glad we did! The experience was well worth the extra 30 minutes it added to our journey on the bullet train back to Osaka. If you plan to visit, note that there are coin-operated lockers available at the local train station for your convenience. Once you arrive, be sure to check out the impressive Mt. Fuji museum, complete with a viewing platform that boasts stunning panoramic views of the iconic mountain.
As we made our way out of Tokyo, we decided to take a detour and see Mt. Fuji - and we're glad we did! The experience was well worth the extra 30 minutes it added to our journey on the bullet train back to Osaka. If you plan to visit, note that there are coin-operated lockers available at the local train station for your convenience. Once you arrive, be sure to check out the impressive Mt. Fuji museum, complete with a viewing platform that boasts stunning panoramic views of the iconic mountain.
While I don't have the time to delve into each individual location right now, I hope these snippets have given you a glimpse into the incredible experiences that await you in Japan. From bustling cities to serene countryside, each destination offers its own unique charm and cultural appeal. Above all, I hope that you enjoy your trip to Japan as much as we did - it truly is a remarkable and unforgettable place to explore. Wishing you safe travels and wonderful memories ahead!
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