Originally Posted by
pastorpm10
As advised I shifted things around and left Nikko as a day trip, seems reasonable, and frees up some more time on the latter part of the trip. Thanks for that!
For rail I just want something that will work for all my train legs, without the hassle of having to deal with machines or any other middlemen.
Rail legs are:
1. Tokyo - Nikko (RT)
2. Tokyo - Kyoto
3. Kyoto - Osaka
While on topic; recommend a good stop during the Tokyo - Kyoto leg for a clean view of Mt. Fuji?
Why Nikko of all places? I've never been and would like to go, but if you are checking off places, maybe do Nara as a partial day trip from Kyoto instead, or Hikone to see an authentic castle? OR Kamakura to see the Giant Buddha?
You could see Fuji from a number of places in Tokyo if it isn't surrounded by clouds, otherwise I'd just advise you to sit on the righthand/North side of the train between Tokyo and Kyoto for some great views of Fuji. If you have a decent SLR, put the shutter speed on max, use a telephoto lens, shoot in burst mode and you'll get some great shots. If I was doing a "check places off my list" type of itin like you, I wouldn't bother with stopping somewhere else just to get a view of Fuji. There are so many better things/places to see.