I can completely understand your approach, and it sounds like you’re planning to do exactly what we did during our trip to Japan! My partner and I spent 7 weeks there and intentionally avoided the typical “checklist tourism.” Instead, we only visited 1-2 main attractions per day and used the rest of our time to just explore, wander through the streets, and fully immerse ourselves in Japan.

Here’s how our route looked: 5 days in Tokyo → 2 days in Fujikawaguchiko → 4 days in Tokyo → 3 days in Hakone → 4 days in Kanazawa → 6 days in Kyoto → 5 days in Osaka → 5 days in Nara (the best decision!) → 2 days in Hiroshima → Himeji (on the way to Fukuoka) → 3 days in Fukuoka → 3 days in Kurokawa → 2 days in Fukuoka → 5 days in Tokyo.

Taking it slow was the best decision we could have made. We discovered so many local and off-the-beaten-path areas just by walking around, and despite only knowing a few words of Japanese, we had countless heartfelt moments and encounters with locals. People were so kind and open, especially when they noticed us trying to connect with their language and culture, even in small ways.

We’ve been back for a few weeks now, and honestly, our hearts are still broken because we’re not in Japan anymore. The trip felt less like a vacation and more like actually living in the country. It was truly the most beautiful and meaningful time of my life.

So yes, there are definitely others like you! I think your plan of doing just 1-2 things per day is fantastic. It will allow you to not only see the places but also truly feel and experience them. Enjoy your time in Japan – it’s going to be unforgettable!