Hey everyone, I’m heading to Japan in October with some friends and wanted to get your thoughts on our draft plan. We’re mainly based in Osaka but doing side trips. Curious if anything feels rushed, if we’re missing must-dos, or if we should swap things around. Appreciate any advice!
Itinerary:
Day 1 (Oct 5, Sun): Arrive in Osaka, chill day
Day 2 (Oct 6, Mon): World Expo in Osaka
Day 3 (Oct 7, Tue): Free day in Osaka, sightsee Osaka Castle and Namba
Day 4 (Oct 8, Wed): Day trip to Himeji Castle, then travel to Onomichi (sleep there)
Day 5 (Oct 9, Thu): Start Shimanami Kaido, stay overnight on Ikuchijima
Day 6 (Oct 10, Fri): Finish Shimanami Kaido, end in Hiroshima
Day 7 (Oct 11, Sat): Saijo Sake Festival + Hiroshima exploring
Day 8 (Oct 12, Sun): Overnight in Itsukushima
Day 9 (Oct 13, Mon): Return to Osaka
Day 10 (Oct 14, Tue): Osaka Kitchenware Festival
Day 11 (Oct 15, Wed): Temple stay in Koyasan
Day 12 (Oct 16, Thu): Return to Osaka (work in evening)
Day 13 (Oct 17, Fri): Work in evening, otherwise free (Spa World?)
Day 14 (Oct 18, Sat): Free day in Osaka before evening flight
Questions:
1. We’re semi-interested in catching a baseball playoff game if an Osaka or Hiroshima team makes it — how realistic is it for foreigners to get tickets?
2. We’ve got a lot of free time in Osaka. Since it’s my 3rd visit, any off-the-beaten-path spots you’d recommend beyond the basics?
3. For the Shimanami Kaido (Onomichi → Imabari, main path), what are the must-stop places along the way?
4. Overall, does this itinerary feel doable without being stressful?
5. Bonus: My friend is allergic to soy and sesame. How manageable is that in Japan, and what foods should be his go-tos?
by Important_Business91