Going to Japan on the 3rd week of December and we’ll be staying near Namba Station in Osaka. Since it’s peak season already, we’re planning to skip the super famous Kyoto attractions because we’re expecting huge crowds.
We’ll probably do 2 full day trips + 1 half day in Nara.
So far these are the places I’m considering for the full day trips:
– Amanohashidate + Ine Funaya fishing village
– Kurashiki
– Shirakawa-go (but travel time looks intense, almost 6 hours total roundtrip)
– Biwako Valley ski resort
– Katsuoji Temple + Minoh area (though I feel like this might also get crowded during December)
We’re looking for places that are:
– worth visiting in December
– not TOO packed with tourists
– scenic / cozy / unique
– doable as a day trip from Namba
Open to underrated spots, slower towns, nature areas, seaside places, winter illuminations, food trips, etc.
Also open to itinerary ideas within Osaka itself if you think staying in the city some days is better than doing long trips.
Would appreciate:
– realistic opinions on whether some of these are worth it in December
– train pass suggestions if relevant
– underrated food/street recommendations too
Thanks! 😊
by sinigangna_hotdog