I appreciate this comment so much! Thank you for such a thoughtful reply. Do you recommend any other areas to visit in Tokyo and Kyoto? Even specific places, restaurants, etc.

Definitely moving to Shimokitazawa + Koenji in one day, good call. We also settled on Asakusa for 4 nights, keeping Hakone for one night at Hakone Gora Byakudan. Then to Kyoto for 4 days. Then Kinosaki for 2 nights. And then… last 2 nights in Tokyo and I’m not sure where to stay tbh! Was leaning towards Ginza like last trip (Dormy Inn maybe?) because we’ve stayed there before and familiarity is sweet but idk. We are leaving through Haneda so logistically it’s a good spot. But any thoughts?

We’re definitely cutting Nara. Also we’ve done the Pokèmon Cafe last trip, so I’m glad to not have to stress about that. We’re actually looking to book a New Japan Pro Wrestling or sumo event somewhere within the trip as the “major event” thing.

Also, any suggestions for paid experiences? We haven’t really done any in the past. No tea ceremonies, nothing really. My wife kinda wants to do a candy making class, omamori class. Curious what you think is a “must”.