Visiting JAPAN — If I Were You…

Sharing choice places to get out of the big city…

Nikko

-Old town full of temples

http://japan-guide.com/e/e3800.html

Kamakura

-Used to be a capital of Japan. Full of enchanting old temples and paths. If you have time you could also check out the island of Enoshima next door.

Hakone
http://japan-guide.com/e/e5200.html

mount fuji:

http://japan-guide.com/e/e2172.html

mount takao: http://japan-guide.com/e/e3029.html

VENTURE FAR OUT

Kyoto
— Fushimi Inari shrine
1000 red tori gates go up the whole mountain!
— Kiyomizu-dera temple
On the hill, great view!
— Heian Jingu shrine
Amazing huge red tori gates and rock garden..
— Nijo Castle (Nijo-jo)
Nicely preserved castle with squeaky wooden floors!
— Philosopher’s walk (tetsugaku no michi)
Peaceful walk through rural Kyoto!
— Ginkakuji [Silver Temple]
— Kinkakuji [Gold Temple]
— Arashiyama area
-And 1590 other temples…

Nara
Nara is where Japan veteran travelrs go for traditional Japanese feel, not the more touristy Kyoto: