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					Originally Posted by shahab6  I'm going to Japan in 2 weeks, so I have short time to make an itinerary. I know for the first week I will split my time in Shinjuku, Tokyo (the most metropolitan and 'city' part of Tokyo) and Hachioji (not as nice a part, but still 'city').
 I have a train pass to go anywhere in Japan for free. Anywhere.
 
 I think I will visit historic Kyoto, visit friends in Iwakuni, visit the Tokyo tower, and hike Mt. Fuji (can anyone tell me what that's like and how to prepare compared to American hiking?). Definitely got to visit the Tokyo fish market and Sony's headquarters.
 
 Never been to the Northern half of Japan either. Don't know if anything is there anyways
 
 Thanks. All input appreciated. Just want to hear what would you do in Japan so I can come up with ideas.
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 Sorry to inform you, but it is unlikely that you will be able to hike Mt Fuji during your trip, since it is only open for climbing a few months a year in mid to late summer. I've climbed it three times - it's quite an experience...literally breathtaking, since at the pace most people climb at, the change in oxygen can have quite an effect.
If you are able to climb, then I recommend starting in the day, staying at one of the stations at night, and then making the final climb so that you arrive right at sunsrise. For me, doing so was an almost spiritual experience.
Kyoto and nearby Nara, are two of my favorite cities to visit in Japan. Osaka and Kobe are close by each other and both are also well worth visiting.
Other than that, there are many more places to see than you will have time for, so all I can say is plan your trip around your interests. There are many good web sites with rich descriptions and photos of places to visit, and things to do, in Japan.
Google a few key words, such as Japan +sightseeing and you will be on your way.
Have a great trip, and post pix when you come back... 
 
ADG