October 21, 2011

mrsem

Planning for Japan

Preparing for our upcoming trip to Kyoto has turned out to be all-consuming. I’m spending hours each night trying to decode maps and book hotels for November. It’s going to be awesome…once I figure it out.

We’re especially struggling with where to spend some time outside of Kyoto. Nara seems to be booked up. Any other suggestions?

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mrsem

There are 7 comments for this article

Whitney October 21, 2011 at 7:09 pm

AH! I LOVED Kyoto–it's such a great city. Nara is pretty close, so you should be able to spend some daytime there.

Osaka is also a great city–it's a little smaller than Tokyo, but you're still able to get the large city feel with the more historical sites (castles, museums, etc).

I'm so jealous that you're going–I really want to go back!
Whitney
erica October 21, 2011 at 7:10 pm

no suggestions here. i am, however, feeling very envious. the food….!
RHill October 21, 2011 at 7:27 pm

A few years ago, I stayed in Kyoto and took a day trip to Nara. I was able to visit almost all of the temples. The trains are frequent and efficient!
michelle October 22, 2011 at 2:19 am

Echoing the comments above, Nara is an easy day trip and train ride away from Kyoto. Also you can visit Kobe and Ise on day trips. Osaka is a good starting point for Mt. Koya, where you can stay overnight in a temple. The Miho Museum is worth a visit for the setting and architecture alone.
Anonymous October 22, 2011 at 4:47 am

I highly recommend Koyasan. It was so amazing to stay at a buddhist temple. One of the highlights of our trip to Japan.
Jessica October 22, 2011 at 7:39 am

Yes, Nara is a great choice. Miyajima is the most beautiful little island town-half day trip. Also, it's nice to visit the Himeji castle. And in Tokyo-the Tsukiji fish market is truly incredible.

http://phillipandjessica.blogspot.com/2009/07/sayonara.html
Anonymous October 23, 2011 at 3:38 am

I'd also recommend Koya-san (Mt. Koya)and a stay at a temple…it's a one of a kind experience! Osaka is huge, try the Shinsaibashi area to gaze at neon nightlife. Ise is a little ways away, but the grounds of the Ise "inner" shrine(Naiku)are very peaceful and the architecture is unique. Have a wonderful time!