ReneeS

Family of three in Japan Aug 14-26 in and out of Tokyo. We plan to go to Kyoto and Hiroshima and Miyajima. And, lots of day trips. We know it will be hot and we are ready.

How should Obon factor into our travel plans? Should we plan on traveling to Kyoto for the fire festival? Or, will businesses be closed and train travel packed during that time? Hotels are available.

We had thought to begin and end with time in Tokyo.

Thoughts on travel around Obon appreciated!

Boveney

The only actual public holiday is the Friday before you arrive - but small neighbourhood shops and restaurants may be shut for a week or two during August as people tend to travel to their hometowns. As long as you can get hotels and trains, I wouldn't worry. Crowds are a fact of life in Japan unless one ventures very far off the tourist path. Can't comment on the Kyoto Fire Festival but wherever you go, you should encounter local celebrations of yukata-clad families, bonododri (dancing), lanterns and fireworks. These make August a great time to visit Japan - as long as one can stand the heat....