Japan... what to do?

Im going to Japan for 8 days June 15-23 with a rail pass. What should I do?
north or south?.. any recommendations on places to go? or things to do.
Mt Fuji I believe is closed at this time. our first stop is kyoto. for a
day, then we go anywhere...

Hi:

I took a trip to Japan back in the mid-90's. Here are a few
observations:

- Kyoto is probably worth more than 1 day. The "Philosopher's Walk"
is fine, but you can just wander around and visit the various temples
and shrines, trusting serrendipity if you'd like. Very pleasant, very
spiritual.

- Tokyo, of course, is a must. You could spend the entire week there.
Personally, I enjoyed visiting a couple of their monuments to
corporate supremecy, namely the Toyota Amlux and the Sony Tower, each
an impressive showcase of present and future empire-building!

- Accomodation: I would recommend you try a "ryokan", or traditional
Japanese Inn. They are not only cheaper than big hotels, but they
feel much more authentic. You'll get a room with tatami mats and
futon bedding, a low table, maybe a plant in the corner, and not much
else. Very Japanese!

- Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you could try what I did: Rent a
"room" in one of the "Coffin Hotels" that are used as overnighters for
(usually drunken) "salarymen" who have too far to go to get home on a
late night. But one night will be enough!

Finally, the very best thing I did on my entire Japan trip:

- Visit a Local Family: The tourist office arranges these
get-togethers free of charge. You go in, tell them you'd like to meet
some locals, and they go through their files and set you up. I had an
incredible dinner with a group of about 5 young Japanese who treated
me like a visiting dignitary - we even went out for karaoke
afterwards! Highlight of my trip.

Anyway, enjoy the rising sun!

Todd
www.wonderninja.com
Buy and Sell YOUR Personalized Services!

Hi Kevin,

June seems to be the start of the rainy season, so at least go
prepared. But as someone replied, Kyoto is definitely worth a couple
of days. We visited Japan this past October and spent 3 nights in
Kyoto. Looking back, we could have stayed another day or two. It all
depends on what your sightseeing pace is. And even a week in Tokyo
might not be enough to see it all! :-)

Hope you enjoy your trip!

//Eva


"Kevin Van Noortwyk" wrote in message ...
Im going to Japan for 8 days June 15-23 with a rail pass. What should I do?
north or south?.. any recommendations on places to go? or things to do.
Mt Fuji I believe is closed at this time. our first stop is kyoto. for a
day, then we go anywhere...