Hi,
My family of 3 adults is coming to Japan on July 19th and leaving on Aug 8th. We´re planning to get us 21-day-passes as our route is Tokyo-Fujiyoshida-Kyoto-Hiroshima-Hofu-Yamaguchi (World Scout Jamboree)-Hofu-Himeji-Tokyo. It´s worth buying passes, isn´t it? And how about the mailing process from you to us? Is it safe? We have plenty of time to order hem, haven´t we?
0
Comments
Yes, the 21 day pass does pay off, although not by a lot. If you are landing at Narita Airport you can activate the pass there and then take the Narita Express into Tokyo. That alone would cost ¥3000 if you paid out of pocket. If you have time, there are numerous side trips you can also take to increase the value of your pass. A day trip to Nikko would be wonderful, and it's a very historical place. Karuizawa would be another great escape to the mountains- and you'll find that July is Japan is extremely muggy and hot (bring enough sunblock and deodorant).
One note though - about seeing the Fuji 5 Lakes area, you cannot go all the way there on a JR Pass - you can only go as far as Otsuki. You'd need to pay the rest of the way, however, there is an Odakyu Fuji Hakone Pass you can use to save money:
http://www.odakyu.jp/english/deels/
For your time in Kyoto, the 3 best sights are the Kinkakuji Temple, Kiyomizudera Temple, and Fushimi Inari Shrine.
Fushimi is the most time consuming; you could spend a couple of hours to over half a day if you want to run over all the trails.
You should also be sure to go see Nara - it is a jewel of a place and has some of the best sights in all Japan. The Great Buddha at Todaiji is simply stunning and is a must-see place.
And since you are going to see Yamaguchi, be sure to walk through the Akiyoshido Limestone Cave - it's a 1km 300 million year old cave with an underground river running through and it is the best in Japan.
Also in Yamaguchi is Hagi, which is an often overlooked gem with a preserved old samurai street and castle ruins/park which are beautiful.
For seeing Himeji Castle on the way back, be sure to also see Kokoen Garden next to it which is also very beautiful.
Regarding mailing the vouchers to you, they are sent by Fed-Ex and a signature of receipt will be required. Generally they arrive in a few business days - if you want more detail, see their page on
https://www.japan-rail-pass.com/book-jrp/delivery-rates-and-times
Enjoy your trip.