Tokyo and Kyoto

[Orquid]

Hi, we are spending 8 days in Japan in August, how many days should we spend on each? Thanks in advance

I don't know about Tokyo but Kyoto is fairly compact so three days should be ample. We stayed with friends in Kobe, just before the earthquake, and did Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Miyajima island, Himeji and Nara, as well as Awaji island and Kyoto. Loved every second of it.

There is plenty to see in both I would do half and half. And get the train from Tokyo to Kyoto as you go past Mount Fuji and that is an experience in itself. I would focus on city experiences in Tokyo and visit all the top shrines in Kyoto, you're going to love it, I would go back tomorrow if I could 💗

Thank you, yes was thinking of half and half; we are hoping we can do day trips to other places from each city.

Our favourite thing we did which was a day trip from Tokyo was visit the Edo-Tokyo open air architecture museum, also had a short stay in a ryokan in Hakone but not sure you'd have time for that. I'd give Harajuku a miss as we found it pretty boring tbh and focus on the big city highlights. Shinjuku, shibuya etc

The shrines in Kyoto are much more historical and picturesque than Tokyo from what I remember and I enjoyed the vibe in Kyoto much more. Little winding lanes to get lost down and stunning views!