First Japan Trip (Oct, 10–12 days) – Itinerary Help + JAL vs ANA Advice 🙏

Konnichiwa everyone! 🇯🇵👋

I’m planning my first trip to Japan in October (10–12 days) from India and would really appreciate feedback on my draft itinerary and planning.

Travel style: mid-range budget, first-time visitor, interested in city exploration, culture, food (vegetarian), and a bit of nature.

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Draft Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo (evening) – check-in, rest

Day 2: Tokyo – Shibuya, Shinjuku, Meiji Shrine

Day 3: Tokyo – Asakusa, Senso-ji, Skytree, Akihabara

Day 4: Day trip to Hakone (Mt. Fuji views, onsen experience)

Day 5: Travel to Kyoto (Shinkansen) – Gion area, evening walk

Day 6: Kyoto – Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera, Higashiyama

Day 7: Kyoto – Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji

Day 8: Osaka – Dotonbori, street food, Osaka Castle

Day 9: Day trip to Nara (deer park, Todai-ji)

Day 10: Optional Hiroshima OR extra day in Osaka/Kyoto

Day 11: Return to Tokyo / buffer day

Day 12: Departure

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Questions

Does this itinerary look realistic in terms of pacing? Anything too rushed or missing?

Should I include Hiroshima or skip it for a more relaxed trip?

For Hakone — is it worth staying overnight or doing a day trip?

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Booking / Planning Questions

What should I book in advance for October? (teamLab, USJ, trains, etc.)

Is JR Pass still worth it for this route or better to book individual tickets?

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Food

I’m vegetarian — any must-try places or tips to avoid hidden non-veg ingredients would really help.

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Flights

Also deciding between JAL and ANA from India — any preference based on your experience?

Arigatou gozaimasu for your help! 🙇‍♂️