FAQs: All You Need to Know
The recommended order follows the Golden Route: start in Tokyo to experience modern Japan, then visit the Mount Fuji region for natural beauty, continue to Kyoto for traditional culture, and end in Osaka for food and entertainment. This progression allows gradual cultural immersion while minimising transportation complications and works efficiently with JR Pass coverage, providing logical geographic flow.
Tokyo requires at least 4-5 days to cover major districts and attractions adequately. Kyoto needs 3-4 days for temple visits and traditional experiences. Osaka can be explored in 2-3 days, often combined with Nara day trips. Regional cities like Hiroshima or Fukuoka deserve 2-3 days each for proper exploration, including nearby attractions and cultural immersion opportunities.
Tokyo and Osaka offer the best accessibility with modern infrastructure, elevator access in major stations, and barrier-free facilities. Newer areas comply with current accessibility standards. Kyoto has improved accessibility recently, though some traditional areas remain challenging due to preservation requirements and older infrastructure in historic districts that prioritise authenticity over modern conveniences.
Kanazawa offers exceptional traditional culture without Kyoto's crowds, featuring preserved districts and renowned gardens. Sendai provides an authentic urban Japanese life with excellent food culture. Fukuoka delivers outstanding cuisine and a relaxed southern atmosphere, overlooked by international visitors focused on the Golden Route. Takayama combines mountain scenery with traditional architecture in walkable settings.
For Kanto region visits, staying in Tokyo with day trips to Nikko, Kamakura, or Hakone works efficiently. However, for a comprehensive Japan exploration, moving between cities provides better experiences and allows evening activities in each destination. Changing hotels requires more planning but offers authentic local experiences and reduces daily travel time while providing deeper cultural immersion opportunities.
