Thanks for all the great info.

Regarding the trains: even standing the whole way wouldn't bother me. I just want to make sure I can get from point A to B ok. Leaving early in the morning wouldn't bother me either. I'll do my best to reserve tickets once I arrive. I think that seems to be the best bet. My main concern was getting back to NRT from Tazawako since I don't want to miss a flight because I couldn't get on a train. I guess if I can reserve a seat at KIX for that section I'll be in good shape.

I know a lot of the museums and things are closed in Kyoto during that time, but do you have any reccomendations on what to do there from Dec 28-30? I know the temples will be open so I'll visit some of those.

Also... I hope I wasn't rude to my friend but my old college roommate lives in Yokohama and I plan to be there on new years eve. I asked if he had any plans and wanted to see if he'd like to meet up. I'm now thinking that new years eve in Japan is not quite the same as in the US.

Is new years eve traditionally spent with the family?

Anyway, thanks for the great info. I always ready posts on this forum, but this was my first actual post!

-Chris