Seeking feedback from seasoned Japan travelers on the "how" of our 21-day itinerary. We’ve mapped transit and Sakura blooms, but need help identifying logistical blind spots. As photographers, we’ve timed sites for specific light and crowd avoidance. We're adding lesser-seen prefectures to the golden trio.
What are the potential bottlenecks or transit pitfalls we aren’t planning for lacking local experience? How can we ensure smooth sailing without mid-trip scrambling? Any shortcuts or contingency tips to fix barriers now? We want to avoid any last-minute reorganizing. What flags are we missing for this plan?
Sharing a google sheets no-sign-in anyone can comment link for easier commenting:
| 3/24 | 3/25 | 3/26 | 3/27 | 3/28 | 3/29 | 3/30 | 3/31 | 4/1 | 4/2 | 4/3 | 4/4 | 4/5 | 4/6 | 4/7 | 4/8 | 4/9 | 4/10 | 4/11 | 4/12 | 4/13 | 4/14 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Saturday | Sunday | Tuesday | |
| Day 0 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Day 8 | Day 9 | Day 10 | Day 11 | Day 12 | Day 13 | Day 14 | Day 15 | Day 16 | Day 17 | Day 18 | Day 19 | Day 20 | Day 21 | |
| 🌸 TOKYO 3/19-3/26 | 🌸 TOKYO 3/19-3/26 | 🌸 TOKYO 3/19-3/26 | 🌸 TOKYO 3/19-3/26 | 🌸 SAITAMA 3/19-3/26 | 🌸 YAMANASHI 3/19-3/28KYOTO 3/26-4/2 (Kiyomizudera) | 🌸 KYOTO 3/26-4/2 (Fushimi Inari)EHIME 3/28-4/5 (Hirakiyama Park) | 🌸 HIROSHIMA 3/24-4/1 (Peace Park)3/27-4/3 (Miyajima)FUKUKOKA 3/22-3/31 (Maizuru) | 🌸 FUKUKOKA 3/27-4/1 (Habu)3/27-4/3 (Kusaba) | GUIDED TOUR ALL DAY | 🌸 HIMEJI 3/28-4/5 (Himeji Castle)KYOTO 3/27-4/5 | 🌸 KYOTO 3/27-4/4 (Kinkakuji)3/26-4/6 (Byodoin Temple)🌸 KYOTO 3/29-4/6 (Takenaka Inari Shrine)3/28-4/3 (Philosopher's Walk) | 🌸 KYOTO 3/29-4/6 (Keage Incline)3/27-4/5 (Nara Park)4/2-4/9 (Yoshimizu Shrine) | 🌸 KYOTO 3/27-4/2 (Tatsumi Bridge), OSAKA 4/6-4/13 (Katsuoji) | |||||||||
| ARRIVAL-TOKYO | TOKYO | TOKYO | TOKYO | TOKYO/GUNMA | GUNMA/KAWAGOE/YAMANASHI | YAMANASHI/KYOTO | KYOTO/HIROSHIMA | HIROSHIMA/FUKUOKA | FUKUOKA | FUKUOKA/MIYAZAKI/FUKUOKA | FUKUOKA/BEPPU/FUKUOKA | FUKUOKA/HYOGO/KYOTO | KYOTO | KYOTO | KYOTO/ NARA/ KYOTO | KYOTO/OSAKA | OSAKA | OSAKA/WAKAYAMA | WAKAYAMA/TOKYO | TOKYO/IBARAKI/TOKYO DEPART | ||
| 4:00 AM | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 4:15 AM | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 4:30 AM | Check out of hotel | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 4:45 AM | Transit to Kyoto Station | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 5:00 AM | Check out of hotel | Check out of hotel | Coin locker rental | |||||||||||||||||||
| 5:15 AM | Transit to train station | Check out of hotel | Orienting | |||||||||||||||||||
| Sunrise🌞 5:30 AM | Coin locker rental | Arrive at Hakata Station | Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan to Keage Incline, 339 Higashikomonozacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto | Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan to Kyoto Tsuburano, 8 368-1 Yasaka Kamimachi, Kyoto | ||||||||||||||||||
| 5:45 AM | Mt.Fuji Station, 2 Chome-5-1 Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0005, Japan to Chureito Pagoda, 2-chome-4-1 Asama, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi | Check out of hotel | Arrive at Hakata Station 🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | Transit | Transit | |||||||||||||||||
| 6:00 AM | Transit | Coin locker rental | Check out of hotel | Hakata Station, 中央街-1-1 博多駅 Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan to HIMEJI STATION | Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan to Fushimi Inari Taisha, 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto | 🌸Keage InclineWanted to go early in the morning to avoid crowds to see it in the day time🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby for train ride | 🌸Yasaka Pagoda Street View from KyotoClassic Photography Spot of Kyoto ArchitectureWanted to go early in the morning to avoid crowds to see it in the day time | Shin-Ōsaka Station, Osaka, Japan to Namba Yasaka Jinja, 2 Chome-9-19 Motomachi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka | ||||||||||||||
| 6:15 AM | Orienting | Get to train station | Transit | Fushimi Inari TaishaWanted to go early in the morning to avoid crowds to see it in the day time | Transit | |||||||||||||||||
| 6:30 AM | Ueno Station, 7 Chome Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005, Japan to Chidorigafuchi Park, 1 Chome-２ Kojimachi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0001, Japan | Arrive at Chureito Pagoda | Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan to Kiyomizu-dera, 1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto | Coin locker rental | 🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby for the train ride | 🌸Namba Yasaka ShrineWanted to go early in the morning to avoid crowds to see it in the day time | Check out of hotel | Head to Ueno station 🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby for train ride | ||||||||||||||
| 6:45 AM | Transit | 🌸Chureito PagodaWanted to go early in the morning to avoid crowds to see it in the day time | Transit | Orienting | ||||||||||||||||||
| 7:00 AM | 🌸Chidorigafuchi ParkWanted to go early in the morning to avoid crowds to see it in the day time🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | 🌸Kiyomizudera TempleWanted to go early in the morning to avoid crowds to see it in the day time🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby for the train ride | HIROSHIMA STATION, ２番３７号 Matsubaracho, Minami Ward, Hiroshima, Japan to Itsukushima Jinja, 1-1 Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima | Hakata Station, 中央街-1-1 博多駅 Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan to Habu Park, 字八ツ廣-428 Habu, Nakama, Fukuoka | 5 min walk to LAWSON from Hakata Station | Go to Shin-Osaka Station | Ueno Station, 7 Chome Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005, Japan to Hitachi Seaside Park, Japan, 〒312-0012 Ibaraki, Hitachinaka, Mawatari, | |||||||||||||||
| 7:15 AM | Transit | Transit | Arrive at LAWSON Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Store | Arrive at Hakata Station | Transit | |||||||||||||||||
| 7:30 AM | Wait | Hakata Station, 中央街-1-1 博多駅 Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan to Yuyama no Sato Onsen, 湯山４組 964 Noda, Beppu, Oita | Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan to Takenaka Inari Shrine, 3-64 Yoshidakaguraokacho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto | Keage Incline, 339 Higashikomonozacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 606-8435, Japan to Deer Park, 160-1 Kasuganocho, Nara | Kyoto Tsuburano, 8 368-1 Yasaka Kamimachi, Kyoto, 605-0827, Japan to Tatsumi Bridge, 祇園巽橋 372 Kiyomotocho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto | Shin-Ōsaka Station, Osaka, Japan to Kii-Katsuura Station, 6-chōme-1 Tsukiji, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama | ||||||||||||||||
| 7:45 AM | Transit | Transit | Transit | 🌸Tatsumi BridgeClassic Photography Spot of Kyoto ArchitectureWanted to go early in the morning to avoid crowds to see it in the day time | Transit | |||||||||||||||||
| 8:00 AM | 🍜Breakfast Provided | From LAWSON Oriental Hotel Fukuoka to Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine2.5 hours | Transit | Namba Yasaka Jinja, 2 Chome-9-19 Motomachi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0016, Japan to Osaka Castle, 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka | ||||||||||||||||||
| 8:15 AM | From Chureito Pagoda to Lake Kawaguchi Photo SpotChureito Pagoda, 2-chome-4-1 Asama, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0011, Japan to 河口湖拍富士山倒影較無人景點 Japan, 〒401-0304 Yamanashi, Minamitsuru District, Fujikawaguchiko, Kawaguchi, | 🌸Itsukushima JinjaWanted to go early in the morning to avoid crowds to see it in the day time🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | 🌸Habu ParkWanted to go early in the morning to avoid crowds to see it in the day time🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | Transit | 🌸Takenaka Inari ShrineWanted to go early in the morning to avoid crowds to see it in the day time | Fushimi Inari Taisha, 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882, Japan to Kinkaku-ji, 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto | Transit | |||||||||||||||
| 8:30 AM | Chidorigafuchi Park, 1 Chome-２ Kojimachi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0001, Japan to teamLab Planets TOKYO DMM, 6 Chome-1-16 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan | Transit | Kiyomizu-dera, 1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan to Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto | Arrive at Himeji Station | Transit | Check out of hotel | ||||||||||||||||
| 8:45 AM | Transit | Arrive at Kyoto Station | Coin locker rental | 🌸 Osaka CastleWanted to go early in the morning to avoid crowds to see it in the day time🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby for train ride for the train ride | Coin locker rental | |||||||||||||||||
| 9:00 AM | Grab food @ station | Orienting | Kinkakuji TempleWanted to go early in the morning to avoid crowds to see it in the day time🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | Kii-Katsuura Station, 6-chōme-1 Tsukiji, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama 649-5335, Japan to Seiganto-ji Temple Sanjuno-to 3-Storied Pagoda, 68 Nachisan, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama | Check bags at coin locker | |||||||||||||||||
| 9:15 AM | Arrive at TeamLab Borderless | Transit | Check out | Pick up bags from coin locker | HIMEJI STATION, 188-1 駅前町 姫路市 兵庫県 670-0927, Japan to Himeji Castle, 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo | Tatsumi Bridge, 祇園巽橋 372 Kiyomotocho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0084, Japan to Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, | Hitachi Seaside Park(Hoping the blue flowers are in blue by now) leaving the earliest we possibly can from Tokyo to get here as earliest as possible to avoid crowds and see the view during the day.🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby for train ride | |||||||||||||||
| 9:30 AM | TeamLab Borderless | Courtesy Shuttle leaves Takaragawa Onsenor take taxi, arrive at 10:04am. 11,800 yen ($76.24) | 🌸Lake KawaguchikoWanted to see view during the day🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | Orienting | 🌸Himeji Castle🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | Takenaka Inari Shrine, 3-64 Yoshidakaguraokacho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8311, Japan to Ginkakuji Bridge, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto | 🌸Nara Deer Park | 4 Hour Gap… Reccomendations? Should we stay in Kyoto or Should we go to Osaka you think? Reccomendations in Kyoto or in Osaka? | Seiganto-ji Temple | |||||||||||||
| 9:45 AM | Arrive at Pokemon Center & Cafe | Transit | Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan to HIROSHIMA STATION, ２番３７号 Matsubaracho, Minami Ward, Hiroshima | 🌸 Philosopher's PathWanted to go early in the morning to avoid crowds to see it in the day time🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | ||||||||||||||||||
| 10:00 AM | Go to line to check in for Pokemon Cafe | 🍜Kirby Cafe | Transit | Itsukushima Jinja, 1-1 Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588, Japan to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, 1-2 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima | ||||||||||||||||||
| 10:15 AM | Ueno Station, 7 Chome Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005, Japan to Jomokogen Station, 1756 Tsukiyono, Minakami, Tone District, Gunma 379-1313 | Transit | Arrive at Yuyama no Sato Onsen | |||||||||||||||||||
| 10:30 AM | 🍜Pokemon Cafe Tokyo | Transit | Arrive at Jomo Kogen Station | Kamishikimi Shrine | Yuyama no Sato OnsenWanted to go during the day to avoid crowds to see it in the day time | |||||||||||||||||
| 10:45 AM | Jomo Kogen Station, Tsukiyono, Minakami, Tone District, Gunma 379-1313, Japan to Kawagoe Station, Kawagoe, Saitama | Transit 河口湖拍富士山倒影較無人景點 Japan, 〒401-0304 Yamanashi, Minamitsuru District, Fujikawaguchiko, Kawaguchi, 3030-1 咲耶橋（さくやはし to Fuji Omuro Sengen Shrine Satomiya, 3951 Katsuyama, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi | Osaka Castle, 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan to Katsuoji, 2914-1 Aomatani, Minoh, Osaka | |||||||||||||||||||
| 11:00 AM | Transit | Transit | Kinkaku-ji, 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, Japan to Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple, １７番地 Sagatoriimoto Adashinocho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto | 🍜Lunch Reccomendations? | Transit | From Seiganto-ji Pagoda to Nachi Waterfall(15 min walk) | ||||||||||||||||
| 11:15 AM | Hiroshima Peace Museum & Park🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby for the train ride | Transit | Nachi Waterfall | |||||||||||||||||||
| 11:30 AM | Kirby Café, Japan, 〒131-0045 Tokyo, Sumida City, Oshiage, 1 Chome−1−2 東京スカイツリータウン・ソラマチ イーストヤード4F 9番地 to ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM, Japan, 〒104-8212 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 4 Chome−6−16 三越新館 9階 9階入場口 | Lunch near Jomo Kogen Station | 🌸Fuji Omuro Sengen ShrineWanted to see view during the day🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby for train ride | Arrive at Hiroshima Station | Himeji Castle, 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012, Japan to HIMEJI STATION | 45 Minute Gap… Reccomendations? | ||||||||||||||||
| 11:45 AM | Transit | Orienting | 3 hours and 15 minute Gap… Reccomendations? | Transit | Rental car | |||||||||||||||||
| 12:00 PM | Pokemon Center DX | Coin locker rental | From Kamishikimi to Amanoiwato Shrine & Amanoyasukawara Shrine1 hour | Arrive at Himeji Station | Kumano Nyakuōji Shrine, 2 Nyakuojicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8444, Japan to Nijō Castle, 541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto | Deer Park, 160-1 Kasuganocho, Nara, 630-8212, Japan to Yoshino Station, Yoshinoyama, Yoshino, Yoshino District, Nara | ||||||||||||||||
| 12:15 PM | Arrive at Kawagoe Station | Orienting | Transit | Pick up luggage from coin lockers | Transit | Transit | ||||||||||||||||
| 12:30 PM | Pokemon Cafe Tokyo Nihombashi, 髙島屋S.C.東館 ５階 2 Chome-11-2 Nihonbashi, Chuo City, Tokyo 103-0027, Japan to teamLab Borderless: MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM, Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza B, B1 5 Chome-９ Toranomon, Minato City, Tokyo | 1 hour 15 minutes Gap… Reccomendations? | Coin Locker rental | HIROSHIMA STATION, ２番３７号 Matsubaracho, Minami Ward, Hiroshima, Japan to Hakatajima Bus Stop, Hakatachō Kanoura, Imabari, Ehime | Orienting | Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple and Bamboo Forest – Maybe | Katsuoji Temple🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby for train ride | |||||||||||||||
| 12:45 PM | teamLab Borderless: MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM, Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza B, B1 5 Chome-９ Toranomon, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0041, Japan to Meguro River Cherry Blossoms Promenade, Meguro, Meguro City, Tokyo 153-0063, Japan | Transit | Kawagoe Station, Kawagoe, Saitama, Japan to Taisho Roman Yume-dori, １７-1 Renjakucho, Kawagoe, Saitama | Fuji Omuro Sengen Shrine Satomiya, 3951 Katsuyama, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0310, Japan to Mt.Fuji Station, 2 Chome-5-1 Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi | Transit | Yuyama no Sato Onsen, 湯山４組 964 Noda, Beppu, Oita 874-0004, Japan to Beppu Jigoku (Hells of Beppu), 559-1 Kannawa, Beppu, Oita | HIMEJI STATION, 188-1 駅前町 姫路市 兵庫県 670-0927, Japan to Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto | Nijo Castle | Seiganto-ji Temple Sanjuno-to 3-Storied Pagoda, 68 Nachisan, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama 649-5301, Japan to Kii-Katsuura Station, 6-chōme-1 Tsukiji, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama | |||||||||||||
| 1:00 PM | Takaragawa Onsen Courtesy Shuttle pick up | Kawagoe Roman Yume-dori (Koinobori)🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | Transit | Amanoiwato Shrine & Amanoyasukawara Shrine🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | Beppu Jigoku Hells Tour | Transit | ||||||||||||||||
| 1:15 PM | 45 minutes Gap… Reccomendations? | Arrive at Art Aquarium Musem | Transit | Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, 1-2 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0811, Japan to HIROSHIMA STATION, ２番３７号 Matsubaracho, Minami Ward, Hiroshima | 45 Minute Gap… Reccomendations? | Arrive at Kiikatsuura Station | ||||||||||||||||
| 1:30 PM | Art Aquarium Museum | Transit | Pick up luggage | Get Station Early | ||||||||||||||||||
| 1:45 PM | Arrive at TeamLab Planets | Arrive at Mt. Fuji Station | Orienting | Arrive at Kyoto Station | Pick up luggage from coin locker | Kii-Katsuura Station, 6-chōme-1 Tsukiji, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama 649-5335, Japan to Maruyama Senmaida Rice Terraces, 318 Kiwacho Maruyama, Kumano, Mie | Get bags from coin locker | |||||||||||||||
| 2:00 PM | TeamLab Planets | Takaragawa Onsen & Ryokan | Pick up luggage from coin locker | Pick up bags from coin locker | Transit | Coin Locker rental | Transit | Orienting | Transit | Hitachi Seaside Park, Japan, 〒312-0012 Ibaraki, Hitachinaka, Mawatari | ||||||||||||
| 2:15 PM | Orienting | Orienting | 🍜Jigokumushikobo Kannawa | Orienting | 🍜Tea Ceremony – yet to be schedulued – not sure if food is usually served at these? | Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan to Shin-Ōsaka Station, Osaka | Transit | |||||||||||||||
| 2:30 PM | Mt.Fuji Station, 2 Chome-5-1 Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0005, Japan to Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto | Transfer | Orienting | Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan to Kyoto City Rakusai Bamboo Park, 2 Chome-300-3 Oekitafukunishicho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto | Nijō Castle, 541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8301, Japan to (THISIS)SHIZEN, Japan, 〒604-8172 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Banocho, | Yoshino Station, Yoshinoyama, Yoshino, Yoshino District, Nara 639-3115, Japan to Yoshimizu Shrine, 579 Yoshinoyama, Yoshino, Yoshino District, Nara | Transit | |||||||||||||||
| 2:45 PM | 4 hours Gap… Reccomendations? | Check things out of coin locker | Transit | Transit | HIROSHIMA STATION, ２番３７号 Matsubaracho, Minami Ward, Hiroshima, Japan to Hakata Station, 中央街-1-1 博多駅 Hakata Ward, Fukuoka | Transit | Transit | Arrive at Yoshimizu Shrine | Arrive at Shin-Osaka Station | |||||||||||||
| 3:00 PM | Taisho Roman Yume-dori, １７-1 Renjakucho, Kawagoe, Saitama 350-0066, Japan to Musashi Ichinomiya Hikawa Jinja, １-407 Takahanacho, Omiya Ward, Saitama, | Transit | 🍜(THISIS)SHIZEN (Flower Ice Cream) | 🌸Yoshimizu ShrineWanted to see a view of an expansive vista of cherry blossoms at a distance🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby for train ride | Coin locker rental | Maruyama SenmaidaWanted to see the view in the day and at sunsetThis locale has 2 spots one where you can drive right up to the senmaida and another spot where you can observe it from a dsitance for the view a drive away. | ||||||||||||||||
| 3:15 PM | Transit | Beppu Jigoku Hells Tour | Orienting | 3 Hours Gap… Reccomendations? | ||||||||||||||||||
| 3:30 PM | ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM, Japan, 〒104-8212 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 4 Chome−6−16 三越新館 9階 9階入場口 to Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka Store, Central Bldg. 6, １階 2 Chome-29-11 Dogenzaka, Shibuya, Tokyo | 🌸Hirakiyama ParkWanted to see the view during the day and at sunset🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby for the train ride | Transit from Shrines to Takachiho Gorge | Rakusai Bamboo Park🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | Transit | |||||||||||||||||
| 3:45 PM | 🌸Kusaba ParkWanted to see view during the day | Arrive at Takachiho Gorge | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 4:00 PM | Peter Arrive at Narita Airport | Check things in coin locker | Arrive at Hakata Station | Takachiho Gorge🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | Transit (THISIS)SHIZEN, Japan, 〒604-8172 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Banocho, 586-2 新風 ホーム1 to Byōdo-in Temple, Renge-116 Uji, Kyoto | Check-in Hotel | ||||||||||||||||
| 4:15 PM | 2 hours 15 minute Gap… Reccomendations? | 🌸Hikawa Shrine & Shiganshi RiverWanted to see view during the day🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby for the train ride | Coin locker rental | Transit | ||||||||||||||||||
| 4:30 PM | Orienting | Beppu Jigoku, 559-1 Kannawa, Beppu, Oita 874-0000, Japan to Beppu Beach Sand Bath, Shoningahamacho, Beppu, Oita | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 4:45 PM | Sally Arrive at Narita Airport | Transit | Hakata Station, 中央街-1-1 博多駅 Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan to Maizuru Park, 1-4 Jonai, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka | 🍜Early Dinner in walk/taxi distance | Transit | Shin-Ōsaka Station, Osaka, Japan to Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel, 7-13 Souemoncho, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0084 | 4 Hours 30 Minutes Gap … Reccomendations? | Arrive at Airport | ||||||||||||||
| 5:00 PM | Customs | 🌸 Meguro RiverWanted to see at night for view and to avoid crowds | Transit teamLab Planets TOKYO DMM, 6 Chome-1-16 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan to Kirby Café, Japan, 〒131-0045 Tokyo, Sumida City, Oshiage | Some Arcade/Gotchapon thing…? | 🌸Maizuru Park | Kyoto City Rakusai Bamboo Park, 2 Chome-300-3 Oekitafukunishicho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 610-1112, Japan to teamLab Biovortex Kyoto, 21-5 Higashikujo Higashiiwamotocho, Minami Ward, Kyoto | Byodoin TempleWanted to see the view during the day and at night | Yoshimizu Shrine, 579 Yoshinoyama, Yoshino, Yoshino District, Nara 639-3115, Japan to Yoshino Station, Yoshinoyama, Yoshino, Yoshino District, Nara | Transit | Kii-Katsuura Station, 6-chōme-1 Tsukiji, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama | Arrive at Airport 3 hours before FlightAnyone with experience flying out of Haneda to the US think we need to be there 3 hours early or do you think 2 hours will suffice? | |||||||||||
| 5:15 PM | Ueno Station, 7 Chome Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005, Japan to Pokemon Cafe Tokyo Nihombashi, 髙島屋S.C.東館 ５階 2 Chome-11-2 Nihonbashi, Chuo City, Tokyo | Arrive at Beppu Beach Sand Bath | Transit | Transit | Arrive at Yoshino Station | Ebisu Power Farris Wheel | Transit | |||||||||||||||
| 5:30 PM | 30 Minute Gap… Reccomendations? | Prep for Sand Bath | Yasaka Shrine LanternsWanted to see view at sunset and at night for illumination🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | Transit | ||||||||||||||||||
| 5:45 PM | 🌸Kusaba ParkWanted to see at night for illumination and the hope of avoiding crowds | Sand Bath | TeamLab Vortex🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | Yoshino Station, Yoshinoyama, Yoshino, Yoshino District, Nara 639-3115, Japan to Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto | ||||||||||||||||||
| Sunset 🌅 6:00 PM | Customs | Transit | Golden Gai | Transit | ||||||||||||||||||
| 6:15 PM | Arrive at Ueno Station | 🍜Uobei Sushi | 🍜Golden Gai + Photos in the Alleys | Clean Up from Sand Bath | Dotonburi River Night Photo (glico man) | |||||||||||||||||
| 6:30 PM | Narita Airport Terminal 3, Japan, 〒286-0106 Chiba, Narita, Tokko, 字上人塚１４８−１ 成田空港第３ターミナル to Ueno Station, 7 Chome Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005, Japan | Check things out of coin locker | Sand Bath's Onsen | |||||||||||||||||||
| 6:45 PM | Transit | Kawagoe Station, Kawagoe, Saitama, Japan to Mt.Fuji Station, 2 Chome-5-1 Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi | Maruyama Senmaida Rice Terraces, 318 Kiwacho Maruyama, Kumano, Mie 519-5405, Japan to Kii-Katsuura Station | |||||||||||||||||||
| 7:00 PM | Meguro River Cherry Blossoms Promenade, Meguro, Meguro City, Tokyo 153-0063, Japan to Chidorigafuchi Park, 1 Chome-２ Kojimachi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0001, Japan | Transit | Coin Locker Rental | Clean Up from Onsen | Byōdo-in Temple, Renge-116 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021, Japan to Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto | Transit | ||||||||||||||||
| 7:15 PM | Transit | Mag's Park Rooftop View of Shibuya CrossingWanted to see at night for view | 1 Hour Gap… Reccomendations? | Orienting | TAXI: Hirakiyama Park, Hakatacho Ikata, Imabari, Ehime 794-2303, Japan to Hakatajima Bus Stop, Hakatachō Kanoura, Imabari, Ehime | Walk to Bus Stop | Transit | Yasaka Shrine, 625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073, Japan to Kimono Forest, 20-2 Sagatenryuji Tsukurimichicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto | Arrive at Kyoto Station | Paik’s Noodle, 日総･四国ビル 2 Chome-4-4 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0085, Japan to Umeda Sky Building, 1 Chome-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka | Shinsekai Tower (neon signs)🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | |||||||||||
| 7:30 PM | Arrive at Ueno Station | Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan to Kiyomizu-dera, 1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto | Kusaba River Cherry blossom trees, Hisamitsu, Chikuzen, Asakura District, Fukuoka 838-0802, Japan to Hakata Station, 中央街-1-1 博多駅 Hakata Ward, Fukuoka | Beppu Beach Sand Bath, Shoningahamacho, Beppu, Oita 874-0023, Japan to Hakata Station, 中央街-1-1 博多駅 Hakata Ward, Fukuoka | Transit | Transit | ||||||||||||||||
| 7:45 PM | Orienting | Transit | Hakatajima Bus Stop, Hakatachō Kanoura, Imabari, Ehime 794-2302, Japan to HIROSHIMA STATION, ２番３７号 Matsubaracho, Minami Ward, Hiroshima | Transit | Transit | Arrive at Kyoto Station | 1 Hour Gap… Reccomendations? | Umeda Sky🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby for train ride | Peter Departs from Haneda | |||||||||||||
| 8:00 PM | Coin Locker Rental | Arrive at Chidorigafuchi Park | 🌸Kiyomizudera TempleWanted to see at night for illumination and the hope of avoiding crowds | Transit | From Takachiho Gorge to LAWSON2.5 Hours | Return Car | ||||||||||||||||
| 8:15 PM | Orienting | 🌸 Chidorigafuchi ParkWanted to see at night for view and to avoid crowds🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | Shibuya SkyWanted to see at night for view | Godzilla Road + Photos in the Streets | Transit | 1 Hour Gap… Reccomendations? | Kimono ForestWanted to see at night for illumination | |||||||||||||||
| 8:30 PM | Ueno Station, 7 Chome Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005, Japan to Sensō-ji, 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan | 3 Hour Gap… Reccomendations? | Return to hotel | Check in to hotel | ||||||||||||||||||
| 8:45 PM | SensojiWanted to see at night for view and to avoid crowds🍜Will try to get food fast at Konbini/Grocery Store or Food Stand nearby | Arrive at Hakata Station | From TeamLab Vortex to Kyoto Station9 min walk | Gifuya Honke, 2 Chome-5-9 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan to Shin-Ōsaka Station, Osaka | ||||||||||||||||||
| 9:00 PM | Pick up luggae from coin locker | Return to hotel | Transit | |||||||||||||||||||
| 9:15 PM | 1 hour Gap… Reccomendations? | Check into hotel | Kimono Forest, 20-2 Sagatenryuji Tsukurimichicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8384, Japan to Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto | Arrive at Shin-Osaka Station | ||||||||||||||||||
| 9:30 PM | Central Rd, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan to Ueno Station, 7 Chome Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo | Kiyomizu-dera, 1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan to Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto | Transit | Return to hotel | ||||||||||||||||||
| 9:45 PM | Chidorigafuchi Park, 1 Chome-２ Kojimachi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0001, Japan to Ueno Station, 7 Chome Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005 | Transit | Transit | Arrive at Hiroshima Station | Arrive back at Kyoto Station | Umeda Sky Building, 1 Chome-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-6023, Japan to Shin-Ōsaka Station, Osaka | Sally Departs from Haneda | |||||||||||||||
| 10:00 PM | Transit | Arrive at Ueno Station | Pick up luggage from coin locker | Pick up bags from coin lockers | Transit | |||||||||||||||||
| 10:15 PM | Sensō-ji, 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan to Ueno Station, 7 Chome Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005, Japan | Shibuya Sky, Japan, 〒150-6145 Tokyo, Shibuya, 2 Chome−24−12 スクランブルスクエア 14階・45階 46階・屋上 to Ueno Station, 7 Chome Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo | Return to hotel | Arrive at Mt. Fuji Station – Fujiyoshida | Go to hotel | Go to hotel | Arrive at Hakata Station | Back to Shin Osaka Station | ||||||||||||||
| 10:30 PM | Pick up luggage from coin lockers | Arrive at Ueno Station | Transit | Check in to Hotel | Check in | 5 min walk to Hakata Station | Back to hotel | Back to hotel | ||||||||||||||
| 10:45 PM | Go to hotel | Go to hotel | ||||||||||||||||||||
| 11:00 PM | Check in | Arrive back at Ueno Station | Arrive at Ueno Station | |||||||||||||||||||
| 11:15 PM | Back to Hotel | Check into hotel | ||||||||||||||||||||
by ideallyanonymous
2 comments
The level of detail here is impressive but also kind of terrifying. A few things jump out:
Your Wakayama day (Nachi Falls + Maruyama Senmaida) is really ambitious. Nachi Falls is like 3-4 hours from Osaka by train, and the senmaida is even deeper into that corner of the peninsula. If you’re trying to catch sunset there and then get back, you’re looking at a very long day with a lot of transit. Might be worth overnighting in Kii-Katsuura if the shots matter to you.
Hitachi Seaside Park on your departure day is risky. It’s 1.5+ hours from Tokyo, and if anything goes wrong (train delay, you lose track of time shooting) you’re stressed about making your flight. The nemophilia should be blooming by mid-April but I’d honestly move this to an earlier Tokyo day if possible.
The Takachiho Gorge day trip from Fukuoka is also a long haul, like 5+ hours round trip driving. Doable but exhausting, especially sandwiched between other packed days.
For your “how many hours gap, recommendations?” questions scattered throughout, honestly those gaps are your buffer time and you should protect them. With this level of scheduling, any delay cascades. Weather, missed trains, a spot taking longer than expected, fatigue. Those gaps will fill themselves.
For Haneda international to the US, 2 hours is usually fine but 3 is safer if you’re anxious. Lines can vary a lot.
The cherry blossom mapping is smart but remember forecasts shift, so stay flexible on which days you hit which spots.
I’m tired just looking at this. Try the luggage forwarding instead of coin lockers. Last time I was in Kyoto station I just gave up trying to find one.
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