Planning my trip to Japan has been an exciting endeavor, and following a structured approach will ensure a memorable experience. Based on my post “How I Prepare for a Big Trip: From Dream Destination to Detailed Itinerary“, here’s the checklist summarizing the steps I have completed so far, along with the upcoming tasks:

1 Year Before Departure:

• Destination and Timing: I selected Japan as my travel destination. I identified the optimal time to visit. I considered factors like weather, festivals, and tourist seasons.
• Budget Planning: I established a comprehensive budget covering flights, accommodations, meals, activities, and local transportation.

9–10 Months Before Departure:

• Must-See Attractions: I compiled a list of must-visit sites and experiences in Japan. I prioritized them based on my interests. I also considered the time available.

6–9 Months Before Departure:

• Flight Arrangements: I monitored flight prices, set up fare alerts, and secured your tickets once I found a favorable deal.

3–6 Months Before Departure:

• Accommodation Booking: I researched various lodging options, considering factors like location, amenities, and reviews, and made my reservations accordingly.
• Transportation Planning: I familiarized myself with Japan’s public transportation system, including trains and buses, and planned my internal travel routes.

1–3 Months Before Departure:

• Activity Reservations: I booked tickets for popular attractions, tours, and experiences that require advance reservations to ensure availability.
• Finalizing the Itinerary: I crafted a detailed day-by-day itinerary, balancing sightseeing with relaxation, and allowing flexibility for spontaneous activities.

Final Weeks Before Departure:

• Packing: I will begin organizing my luggage. I will ensure I have appropriate clothing for Japan’s climate during your visit. I will include necessary travel documents, medications, and any other essentials.
• Final Preparations: I will confirm all reservations. I will check for any travel advisories. I will ensure I have digital and physical copies of important documents.

Following this structured plan will allow you to plan your trip while also living your normal daily routine. You can plan it a year in advance. Alternatively, you can plan in a smaller time frame. Either way, this approach will allow you to really enjoy your trip. Once you are there, you can relax and have fun. No more “I need a vacation from my vacation”

Now here is a little peak at my itinerary!

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Trip Breakdown

Tokyo (5 Days)

Day 1: Arrival

• Arrival in Tokyo and check-in at the hotel

Day 2: Yokosuka Drive

• Pick up Rental Car
• Stops:
  • Surf Village
  • Kamakura Daibutsu
  • Cape Inamuragasaki (Fuji View Point)
  • Morito Daimyojin Shrine
  • Jogashima Park
  • Kano Shrine (West)
• Evening: Daikoku

Day 3: Touge & Mt. Fuji Drive

• Stops:
  • Hakone Turnpike
  • Hakone Shrine
  • Fuji Speedway
  • Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine
  • Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station

Day 4: Exploring Tokyo & Shopping

• Sensō-ji Temple
• Tsukiji Outer Market
• Tokyo Tower
• Explore Shibuya
• Explore Shinjuku

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Nagano (2 Days)

Accommodations:

Day 5: Snowboarding

• Rent Snow Gear
• Hit the Slopes

Day 6: Nagano Exploration

• Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
• Togakushi Shrine

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Osaka, Nara, Kyoto, & Koyasan (5 Days)

Day 7: Arrival in Dotonbori

• Settle into Accomdations
• Explore Dotonbori: Neon lights, street food, and shopping

Day 8: Nara Day Trip

• Must-See:
  • Nakatanidou Mochi
  • Tōdai-ji Temple
  • Chayama-enchi Park

Day 9: Kyoto Exploration Day Trip

• Take the Kyo-train Garaku to Kyoto
• Visit traditional shops & explore Kyoto

Day 10: Koyasan Day Trip

• Sites:
  • Kongobu-ji Temple
  • Okuno-in Cemetery
  • Akiyama Clock Shop

Day 11: Kobe Day Trip

• Sites
  • Osaka Tenmangu Shrine
  • Namba Yasaka Jinja
  • Shin Sekai
  • Abeno Harukas Skyscraper

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Tokyo & Return Home

Day 12: Return to Tokyo

• Final shopping and sightseeing

Day 13: Flight Home

• Relax and reflect on an unforgettable journey!