Route Planning and Budgeting in Japan: real experience from chats
Short answer
For a 21-day trip, balance major cities like Tokyo and Osaka with strategic day trips to Himeji, Nara, or Nikko while avoiding over-scheduling. Budget approximately 100 EUR per person per day for a mid-range experience, accounting for higher costs in accommodation and inter-city transport compared to local food.
From real experience
A 21-day itinerary for Japan can be optimized by balancing popular destinations with day trips.
Key considerations include allocating sufficient time for major cities like Osaka and Tokyo, potentially splitting Tokyo nights for easier access to surrounding areas like Nikko or Yokohama. While day trips to places like Himeji and Nara are feasible, it's important to manage travel time and avoid over-scheduling to prevent fatigue. Exploring options like Kanazawa or Kōbe can add variety to the itinerary.
✓ 2 reports from chats
For a two-week trip for two in Japan, excluding flights and shopping, budget approximately 100 EUR per person per day for accommodation, food, local transport, and sightseeing.
This estimate represents a mid-range travel style. Note that while food and casual shopping in Japan can be comparable to Eastern Europe, accommodation and inter-city transport may align more with Western European prices. Therefore, Japan's overall cost can be considered moderate, falling between Eastern and Western European price points depending on travel choices.
✓ 1 report from chats
When planning a trip to Japan, the time allocation for cities like Osaka and day trips to places like Himeji is a common discussion point.
While some find 1-1.5 days sufficient for Osaka, others argue for more time. Himeji Castle is considered a significant attraction, with recommendations to visit it, possibly combined with Kobe for a single day trip if time is limited.