In episode 13 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, hosts Tracy and Doug Collins take you on a captivating journey through their 21-day itinerary in Japan. From bustling Tokyo to serene Nagano, historic Hiroshima, and vibrant Osaka, they share their detailed experiences and valuable insights.
Tracy and Doug provide a comprehensive overview of their adventures, including visiting iconic landmarks, embarking on day trips, navigating transportation, and navigating cultural experiences. Stay tuned as they uncover the highlights and challenges of their itinerary, and offer valuable tips for first-time visitors.
Get ready to be inspired and discover the beauty of Japan through the eyes of these seasoned travellers. So, sit back, relax, and let Tracy and Doug guide you through their enthralling Japanese escapade. Happy Global Travel Planning!
Key topics in Episode 13
Overview of 21-Day Japan Itinerary
- Itinerary Overview
- Description of the 21-day trip to Japan
- Visited destinations, including Tokyo, Nagano, Yudanaka, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, and Osaka
Days 1-6: Exploring Tokyo
- Day 1: Arrival and Planning
- Exchanging Japan Rail Pass vouchers
- Visiting Meiji Jinju Shinto Shrine
- Day 2: Sensoji Buddhist Temple and Shibuya Crossing
- Visiting the Sensoji Buddhist Temple and navigating the market
- Experiencing Shibuya Crossing
- Day 3: Day Trip to Mount Fuji
- Scenic trip to see Mount Fuji and Lake Taguchi
- Travelling with a local guide
- Day 4: Team Lab Art Exhibition
- Exploring the interactive art exhibition
- Day 5: Skytree and Imperial Palace and Gardens
- Visiting the Skytree for a panoramic view
- Exploring the Imperial Palace and Gardens
- Day 6: Exploring Hana Biyori Gardens and Travel Preparation
- Visiting Hana Biyori Gardens
- Sending luggage ahead to Kyoto and preparing for further travel
Days 7-12: Nagano, Yudanaka, and Kanazawa
- Day 7: Bullet Train to Nagano and Traditional Japanese Onsen
- Excitement of riding the bullet train to Nagano
- Experiencing a traditional Japanese ryokan with an onsen
- Day 8: Visiting the Snow Monkeys
- Journey to see the snow monkeys amidst autumn
- Enjoying a unique experience with the snow monkeys
- Day 9-10: Explorations in Takayama and Kanazawa
- Sightseeing in Takayama and exploring the town
- Exciting experiences in Kanazawa, including local markets and the railway station
- Utilizing the Hop-on-Hop-off bus to explore the area
Days 13-17: Kyoto and Nara
- Day 12: Journey to Kyoto and Unplanned Trip to Osaka
- Arriving in Kyoto and unplanned visit to Osaka
- Navigating transportation and logistical challenges
- Day 13: Golden Temple and Kyoto Explorations
- Exploring the Kinkakujou (Golden Temple)
- Exploring the Gion district and Karamachi Garden shopping centre
- Day 14: Day Trip to Nara
- Planning and executing a day trip to Nara
- Enjoying the deer and the local atmosphere
Days 17-20: Hiroshima and Osaka
- Day 17: Bullet Train to Hiroshima and Astounding Sights
- Travelling to Hiroshima and visiting the Atomic Bomb Dome
- Arriving at Hiroshima and getting to know the area
- Day 18: Miyajima Island and Hiroshima Memorial Hall
- Visiting the iconic Tora gate on Miyajima Island
- Emotional experiences at the Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Victims
- Day 19-20: Exploring Osaka
- Making the most of time in Osaka, including visits to the Sky building and the Totonbori area
Departure and Concluding Remarks
- Day 21: Preparing for Departure to South Korea
- Smooth transportation to Osaka airport
- Final Thoughts and Learning Points
- Reflecting on the trip and experiences gained
- Anticipating future visits to Japan
Click here for a PDF transcript of episode 13
Accommodation and tours we booked for our trip
– Yudanaka Yasuragi in Yamanouchi
– Chisun Grand Takayama in Takayama
– Weskii Hotel in Kanazawa
– Stay Sakura Kyoto Higashi Hongan-ji I in Kyoto
– Hotel Granvia Hiroshima in Hiroshima
– Hotel Hankyu Respire Osaka in Osaka