Comment on my 12 day itinerary
 

We are group of 4 (2 adults n 2 kids aged 12 & 13)coming to Japan for the 1st time for 13 days trip.

This is our plan:
Day-1: Arrive at Narita Airport 7.30AM - Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto
Day-2: Spend a full day in Kyoto.
Day-3: Make a half day trip to Himeji Castle. Spend the rest of the day in Kyoto.
Day-4: Osaka
Day-5: Day trip to Nara.
Day-6: Osaka
Day-7: Return from Kyoto to Tokyo
Day-8: Full day in Tokyo
Day-9: Day trip to Kamakura
Day-10: Day trip to Hakone
Day-11: Day trip to Nikko
Day-12: Full day in Tokyo
Day-13: Depart Japan from Narita Airport

I am also thinking of including snow monkey trip but not sure if that will be too much. The kids love to see Samurai stuff and that will be our main focus.

We are planning to get 7day JR pass. Anything else to consider and your comments/feedback.

Hi s6656,

Japan will be a wonderful trip for you and your family!

In Nara, you will find the Horyuji Complex, which is the oldest wooden structure in the world; this Tang period temple is a must-see site. Here is a map with the location: http://bit.ly/75ReL

Also, when you are in in Tokyo, don't miss the Tsukiji Market - we have posted a map that has directions to its famous tuna auction here: http://bit.ly/84Voj

Have a great trip!

I haven't personally been to Japan yet, but from reading others' posts, 1.5 days is really not enough time to see Kyoto and their many many beautiful temples (if you are into that sort of thing). I would cut one day off Osaka or eliminate Osaka completely in favor of Kyoto.

I agree that 1.5 days is really not enough time for Kyoto and would recommend cutting at least one day from Osaka and adding it to your time in Kyoto.

Also, have you considered flying into Kansai and out of Narita?

Enjoy!

I agree with the above about adding at least a day to Kyoto.

You also have too many day trips planned imho. Take the time to see the city that you are in. There is so much to see.

kja has a good idea about an open jaw air ticket

Just glancing at your schedule it would look like you need more than a 7 day pass. When were you planning on starting and ending your pass?

Aloha!