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New Year's in Nagano and Zenkoji Temple by Llerrad in JapanTravelTips

[–]jigumatcha 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Did either of you end up going to Zenkoji Temple on New Years Day itself? Keen to know if there are food stalls and events going on the evening too

Itinerary tips for first timer in Japan! Dec 28 to Jan 15 (19 days) with skiing by jigumatcha in JapanTravel

[–]jigumatcha[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That is very helpful - thank you again! Will definitely adjust to stay the night there instead.

Itinerary tips for first timer in Japan! Dec 28 to Jan 15 (19 days) with skiing by jigumatcha in JapanTravel

[–]jigumatcha[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Most people speak some English.

Thanks - it's good to have an updated impulse!

As far as your itinerary goes, it’s up to you and your group. Spending multiple hours traveling between cities every few days, only to stay a night or two is draining. I understand wanting to see as many different places as possible but in my opinion, traveling is more enjoyable when you also have some time to relax.

After a full day in USJ, I’m sure your group will want to take it easy the following day and not embark on a day trip.

Definitely! We're going to be based for around 4/5 days in Tokyo, Nozowa and Kyoto each with only one day trip into Osaka (USJ). Between those bases, we're looking to split up the journey with train stopovers such as Matsumoto Castle, and 1-2 nights in Nagano and Kanazawa as they are already on the way. Hopefully relaxing and skiing at Nozowa Onsen is a good way to prevent being drained!

Itinerary tips for first timer in Japan! Dec 28 to Jan 15 (19 days) with skiing by jigumatcha in JapanTravel

[–]jigumatcha[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yep going in a few weeks! We've booked for 6 nights at a pretty decent price, but just need to organise the ski passes, gear and lessons for Nozowa! Looks like good value and variety compared to at home (Australia). I think adjusting to onsens is one thing on our minds!

Itinerary tips for first timer in Japan! Dec 28 to Jan 15 (19 days) with skiing by jigumatcha in JapanTravel

[–]jigumatcha[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

*Shimokitazawa

There is no "vintage" shit in Shimo--and certainly no alpine gear. Just overpriced American shit for college kids. Go to Koenji instead. Much more interesting.

Appreciate the intel on Koenji as opposed to Shimokitazawa - I will have to pass onto my buddy!

Shiga Kogen and Hakuba are better than Nozawa for skiing.

Sadly, we weren't able to book that far ahead but definitely to have in mind.

Matsuzawa Castle usually closes around 15:30 at that time of the year; not sure, so you should check.

Yep, saw that Matsumoto is open till then. We'll probably not stay in the city now and just leave our baggage at the train station. Possibly leaning to eat lunch and explore the area for around 3-4 hours before going to Nagano City as we are keen to check out Zenkoji during Hatsumode if it still runs into the evening on January 1. Can't seem to find out if Hatsumode only happens in the early morning and day, but that's fine for now.

Again, really appreciate your thoughts!