We will be visiting Japan for the second time in September next year for two weeks. Last time we visited Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto and then down to Ise-Shima (Amanemu). We loved the mix of city buzz and calmer stops such as Kanazawa and Amanemu.

For our next visit we’d like to travel a little further afield. Currently considering Tokyo > Fukuoka > Setouchi Aonagi > Kyoto > Tokyo.

Any thoughts on whether Setouchi Aonagi is worth a stop and visiting for one night? We’re big architecture fans. We’d fly in from Fukuoka and fly out to Osaka to travel on to Kyoto.

Also, any alternative suggestions to experience a Kanazawa-esque city, in place of Fukuoka / Setouchi Aonagi? We like charming towns/cities and less interested in hikes or nature trails. Happy to travel in any direction and work our way back to Tokyo. We also like to stay in luxury hotels.