Today we continue our countdown to Celebration Japan with our weekly series focusing on the different planning aspects of such a big trip.
Today, we look at some of most popular destinations outside of Tokyo and Chiba.
Kyoto
When my girlfriend and I were putting out itinerary together for Japan, we both put Kyoto at the top of our lists. It’s approximately 3 hours on the train from Tokyo and, as it turns out, at the top of a lot of people’s lists. From what I could gather so far, this place couldn’t be more different from Tokyo if you tried. It’s all about temples, shrines and is steeped in ancient history. There’s the famous Bamboo Forest to visit and nothing but mountains surrounding the place. Aside from Celebration, this is what I’m most excited about for our visit to Japan.
Harkone
This place looks like a natural wonder and if getting a great view of Mount Fuji is top of your list then it might be worth thinking about Harkone. It essentially looks like Pandora from the Avatar films – it looks gorgeous. If you’re need of a respite from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo then this could be the place to get some R&R. The place to visit would be Lake Ashi for the spectacular view of Fuji, providing it’s a clear day of course.
Nikko
During my research of Japan I keep coming across the notion that not many people venture north of Tokyo. You could do Nikko on a day trip from Tokyo and it once again offers a different vibe. Its lush greenery has made the place a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s often voted as the most beautiful place in Japan. For that reason, my girlfriend and I have put this place on our itinerary towards the end of the trip. The main attraction is the Togoshu Shrine that is a deep complex of architecture surrounded by forestry.
Hiroshima
This one would be a solemn place to visit to pay your respects to the victims of the atomic bomb. The peace memorial museum would be at the top of your list if you came here. I really wanted to make the journey here, alas, like everyone – there’s simply too much to pack in.
Osaka
This vibrant city has a similar vibe to Tokyo but here it’s all about the nightlife and the food. It’s not too far from Kyoto so doable if you’re heading out on your journey that way and is extremely popular with tourists.
Okayama
As we’ll be in Japan for Cherry Blossom season then it would be rude not to include the city that has been voted the best garden in all of Japan and one of the most beautiful places to see the cherry blossom. This is a place that’s pretty off the beaten track but if the crowds are simply becoming too much then you can enjoy wonders galore without the overpacked streets.
Yokohama
This is a vibrant city and only a short ride away from Tokyo. It’s located on the harbour and is most famous as being the most popular shopping destinations in Japan. There are museums here in abundance, including a museum dedicated to iPhone cases.
Kamakura
I’ve included this one here as there are so many places to visit in Japan that a lifetime isn’t enough, let alone 2 weeks. This place is located just an hour away from Tokyo but contains something you might want or need after a hectic time at Celebration. Located in this city are some stunning beaches and a fascinating place that was once the political capital of Japan. It also features The Great Budha of Kamakura, the second largest bronze statue of Buddha and is itself a massive reason to visit.
Join us next week as we look at the famous JR Pass.
