Context: I spent 2 weeks in Japan in February 2025, staying in Tokyo, Kyoto, Shingu, Yunomine Onsen, and a night in Osaka before heading back to Tokyo. I had an amazing time and saw/did most of what I had planned.
I’m now thinking about my next trip and I want to go back for at least a month, basically doing the same places, but having a more immersive experience. For example, staying in a quieter neighborhood in Tokyo for a week and just walking around, taking more time to browse interesting shops, parks etc. I’m also planning to go back to Kyoto for a week or so and do the same. And then walk a longer section of the Kumano Kodo.
Some of the logistics from my first trip worked so well that I’m keen to just do the same again. The same for some hotels…great locations, great atmosphere.
For example, my flight got in to Haneda at 10:30pm so I booked a Henn Na Hotel 5min from the airport. This ended up being awesome as I didn‘t have to stress about how long immigration would take, I could get to the hotel quickly by taxi or train, and they had an 11am checkout so I could sleep in and recover from the 20+ hour trip. I’ve been looking at other logistics and this still seems to work best, so I figure it’s probably worth sticking with it?
Also the guesthouse I stayed at in Kyoto was so perfect in terms of price, location and amenities…it just seems easier to stay there again rather than risk an unknown somewhere else?
For those who have gone back, did you pick completely different accommodation or did you stick with what worked and you enjoyed the first time?
Anyone have experiences to share?
by BranchLongjumping574