We are still researching itineraries for Japan and finding it a bit harder than India and the Philippines because there are no obvious routes. Different sites recommend different destinations and in different orders so expect this page to be updated as our plans firm up.
We do know that we will be flying into Tokyo Narita airport, from Cebu, on 16th May, 2025 because we have bought that plane ticket. Our initial thinking was to stay in Tokyo for three or four days but it seems that there is a big Shinto festival happening then and accommodation is even more expensive than it usually is so it may make sense to go somewhere else first.
Tokyo and the Kanto Region
- Shinjuku – “Downtown” – skyscrapers and observation decks.
Shinjuku National Garden – large park. South of Shinjuku station
Kabukicho – Red light/entertainment district. Golden Gai narrow streets and alleys.
Omaoide Yokocho – Piss Alley – alleyways and cheap eateries - Shibuya – shopping district
Yoyogi Park – rocker dance offs at weekends
Meiji Jingu – impressive shrine
Harajuku – youth culture capital
Imperial Palace - Asakusa – old and authentic Tokyo
Tokyo Skytree
Toyosu Fish Market (Tuna Auctions/Sushi)
Ryogoku – Sumo wrestling - Tokyo Disneyland (Chiba)
- Kamakura – south of Tokyo (day trip)
Great Budda
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine - Nikko – north of Tokyo (day trip). Scenic area with Toshogu Shrine
Ginzen Onsen and Tohoku region
Onsens are spa towns where hot baths are fed by volcanic water. They are definitely something we should experience but maybe not in the first few days! Men and women are segregated so we will each be flying solo and there is a lot of etiquette involved. Steve visited a bath house in Tokyo when he was there in 2003 and got by following the man in front and copying his actions. That worked fine for a while until the guy noticed and wondered why this westerner was stalking him!
Ginzan Onsen is north of Tokyo and really is a winter resort but is one of the most authentic and scenic onsens. A river runs through the town and the wood-framed ryoken (Inns) face onto it, with a magical atmosphere at night when the gas lamps are lit.
Fuji Five Lakes
The Five Lakes region is to the South West of Tokyo and, as the name suggests, is a region of five lakes nestled in the foothills of Mount Fuji. It is famous for its spectacular scenery and the pink phlox moss that grows here. The Fuji Shibazakura Festival takes place mid-April to late May so should be happening when we are there, with 800,000 phlox plants set around a small lake with views of Mount Fuji – at least, if it is a clear day.
Discover more from ADVENTURE BEFORE DEMENTIA
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.