Japan Travel Itinerary
A Journey Through the Land of the Rising Sun
Day 1: Tokyo Arrival
Meiji Shrine, Tokyo | Photo by Erik Eastman on Unsplash
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to Meiji Jingu Shrine and Yoyogi Park in central Tokyo. These peaceful sites offer a relaxing start with traditional architecture, gardens, and spiritual atmosphere.
Afternoon
Head to Harajuku, known for its youth fashion culture and quirky shops. Walk along Takeshita Street, sampling Japanese crepes, street food, and checking out local boutiques.
Evening
Visit the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world. Then explore Shibuya's nightlife, shops, and cafés.
Alternative Option – Asakusa & Ginza
Explore Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, then have lunch in one of the traditional restaurants nearby. In the afternoon, visit Kappabashi Street to shop for Japanese kitchenware and souvenirs. End your day in Ginza with a fine dinner and optional shopping.
First-Day Tips
Transportation
Buy a Suica or Pasmo card for convenient travel. A Japan Rail Pass can be useful if traveling outside Tokyo.
Food
Try local ramen, sushi, or street snacks like takoyaki and taiyaki.
Mindset
Take it slow, explore side streets, and enjoy the unique energy of Tokyo.
Day 2: Tokyo Exploration
Spend your second day diving deeper into Tokyo's dynamic contrasts — from serene gardens and bustling markets to futuristic entertainment hubs and otaku culture.
Tsukiji Market, Tokyo | Photo by Gabriel Ghnassia on Unsplash
Morning: Tsukiji Market & Hamarikyu Gardens
- Begin your day with a visit to the Tsukiji Outer Market
- Walk through narrow lanes filled with stalls selling fresh seafood, Japanese omelets (tamagoyaki), and delicious street snacks
- Enjoy a traditional sushi breakfast or grilled scallops with soy butter at one of the local eateries
- After breakfast, stroll to the nearby Hamarikyu Gardens, a beautifully preserved Edo-period landscape garden
Garden Highlights
- Teahouse on the pond
- Flower gardens
- Views of Tokyo's skyscrapers blending with nature
Travel Tip: From Tsukiji to Hamarikyu is about a 10-minute walk.
TeamLab Borderless, Odaiba | Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
Afternoon: Sumida River Cruise & Odaiba Island
- Head to the Hamarikyu pier and board a Sumida River Cruise
- Scenic ride offers beautiful views of bridges and riverside architecture
- Disembark at Odaiba, a man-made island known for futuristic architecture and entertainment
Explore Odaiba
- teamLab Borderless: immersive digital art museum (advance tickets recommended)
- DiverCity Tokyo Plaza: See life-sized Gundam statue and shop
- Walk along Odaiba Seaside Park or Rainbow Bridge for sunset views
Travel Tip: Wear comfy shoes — Odaiba involves a lot of walking between venues.
Akihabara District, Tokyo | Photo by Jezael Melgoza on Unsplash
Evening: Akihabara – Anime & Otaku Culture
Must Visit
- Retro game shops like Super Potato
- Figurine and model stores
- Themed cafés (like maid cafés or anime cafés)
Great spot for picking up unique souvenirs, manga, and electronic gadgets.
Tips for Day 2
Transportation
Use your Suica/Pasmo card for boats and trains. It works everywhere.
Photography
teamLab exhibits are interactive — be sure to bring your camera or phone.
Shoes
A full day of exploring means comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Day 3: Day Trip to Mount Fuji or Hakone
Day 3 is the perfect time to escape the city and discover the natural beauty of Japan. Choose between visiting the iconic Mount Fuji or the hot spring town of Hakone — both offer stunning views, cultural experiences, and relaxation.
Option 1: Mount Fuji & the Fuji Five Lakes
Chureito Pagoda and Mount Fuji | Photo by Patrick Schöpflin on Unsplash
Morning: Travel & Lake Kawaguchi
- Depart early from Tokyo via bus or train (approx. 2 hours) to Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchiko)
- Start your trip at the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway for breathtaking views
- Walk along Lake Kawaguchi's scenic shoreline and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere
Afternoon: Arakurayama Sengen Park
- Visit Arakurayama Sengen Shrine, home of the iconic view: Mount Fuji with the red Chureito Pagoda
- Optional: Rent a bike and cycle around the lake area or stop by a local onsen
Evening: Return to Tokyo
- Grab dinner near Kawaguchiko Station or in Tokyo once you return
- Last buses/trains leave around 6–7 PM — plan accordingly
Travel Tip: The Fuji Excursion train from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko is fast and convenient. Book seats in advance.
Option 2: Hakone – Hot Springs, Nature & Views
Hakone Shrine | Photo by Sora Sagano on Unsplash
Morning: Romancecar to Hakone
- Take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto (~90 mins)
- Start with a visit to Hakone Open-Air Museum, showcasing sculptures in a stunning natural setting
Afternoon: Ropeway & Owakudani
- Ride the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani, an active volcanic valley
- Try the famous black eggs (kuro-tamago) said to add 7 years to your life!
- Continue to Lake Ashi, and take a scenic pirate boat cruise with views of Mount Fuji
Evening: Onsen & Return
- Visit a traditional onsen (hot spring bath), either in Hakone-Yumoto or Gora
- Return to Tokyo in the evening by Romancecar or local train
Travel Tip: The Hakone Free Pass is great value — it covers nearly all transport in Hakone.
Tips for Day 3
Weather
Mount Fuji visibility depends on the weather. Early morning = best chance.
Pack
Bring a small towel and change of clothes if planning to visit an onsen.
Timing
Start early to make the most of either destination. Both areas require at least 8–10 hours total.
Navigation
Have Google Maps or Hyperdia ready to manage train and bus schedules.
Day 4: Kyoto Arrival & First Explorations
Leave behind Tokyo's neon lights and travel to Kyoto, the heart of traditional Japan. With ancient temples, quiet alleyways, and elegant teahouses, Kyoto offers a slower, spiritual rhythm.
Shinkansen Bullet Train | Photo by Joshua Lim on Unsplash
Morning: Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto
- Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station to Kyoto Station
- Recommended trains: Nozomi (2 hr 20 min) or Hikari (2 hr 40 min)
- Use your Japan Rail Pass if you have one (Note: Nozomi not covered)
- Enjoy the scenic ride through the Japanese countryside
- Check into your accommodation near Kyoto Station or Gion district
Travel Tip: Pack light today or use a luggage forwarding service (takuhaibin) to send bags to your Kyoto hotel.
Fushimi Inari Shrine | Photo by Sora Sagano on Unsplash
Afternoon: Fushimi Inari Shrine & Southern Higashiyama
Fushimi Inari Taisha
- Walk part of the trail through the sacred forested mountain
- Expect 1.5–2 hours to explore depending on your pace
- Best photos after lunch to avoid morning crowds
Higashiyama Area
- Stroll through Sanneizaka and Ninenzaka
- Browse traditional shops and tea houses
- Try matcha soft cream and Kyoto sweets
Gion District | Photo by Sora Sagano on Unsplash
Evening: Gion District & Dinner
- Walk through Gion, Kyoto's famous geisha district
- Explore Hanamikoji Street - watch for geisha and maiko
- Visit the illuminated Yasaka Shrine
- Enjoy a kaiseki dinner or local dishes at an izakaya
Recommended Dinner Options
- Traditional kaiseki multi-course meal
- Yuba (tofu skin) and local specialties
- Kyoto-style tempura
Tips for Day 4
Transport
IC Cards like Suica/Pasmo also work in Kyoto.
Language
Learn a few polite Japanese phrases — Kyoto is traditional and appreciates etiquette.
Packing
Travel light today — focus on walking-friendly shoes and a compact camera.
Photography
Visit Fushimi Inari after lunch to avoid early morning tour crowds.
Day 5: Arashiyama & Northern Kyoto
Day 5 is all about natural beauty, traditional culture, and serenity. You'll explore the lush Arashiyama district in western Kyoto and end the day with a tranquil visit to Kyoto's iconic Golden Pavilion.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove | Photo by Sora Sagano on Unsplash
Morning: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji Temple
- Take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station (~20 minutes)
- Walk through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji Temple
- Explore the Zen garden and pond with mountain views
Tip: Arrive before 9:00 AM to experience the bamboo grove without crowds.
Togetsukyo Bridge | Photo by Sora Sagano on Unsplash
Late Morning: Scenic Nature Walk or River Experience
Choose Your Adventure
- Walk across the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge
- Take a riverside walk along the Katsura River
- Enjoy a traditional Hozugawa-style boat ride (seasonal)
- Visit Iwatayama Monkey Park for panoramic views
Lunch in Arashiyama
- Try Yudofu (boiled tofu) - local specialty
- Visit a modern Japanese café with river views
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) | Photo by Joshua Lim on Unsplash
Afternoon: Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)
- Take a taxi or bus to Kinkaku-ji
- Marvel at the temple covered in shimmering gold leaf
- Explore the mirror pond and manicured gardens
- Visit traditional tea houses within the complex
Pro Tip: The reflection of Kinkaku-ji on the pond is especially stunning if there's no wind.
Evening: Optional Activities
Choose Your Evening Experience
- Take a peaceful walk in the Kyoto Botanical Garden
- Attend a traditional tea ceremony in a machiya
Tips for Day 5
Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for long walks and garden paths.
Mindset
Try to slow down and savor the Zen atmosphere.
Supplies
Carry water and snacks — few vending machines on deeper paths.
Timing
Visit popular sites early or late to avoid peak crowds.
Day 6: Kyoto Temples & Philosopher's Path
Today is a deeply spiritual and visually rich day. You'll explore Kyoto's eastern hills, home to some of Japan's most celebrated temples, ending with a peaceful stroll along the Philosopher's Path, a route that invites reflection and beauty.
Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) | Photo by Sora Sagano on Unsplash
Morning: Ginkaku-ji & Philosopher's Path
Ginkaku-ji Highlights
- Explore the Zen temple and moss garden
- Visit the hillside viewpoint
- Admire the raked sand sculptures
Philosopher's Path
- Stone-lined path along a peaceful canal
- Cherry trees and traditional homes
- Small cafés and art galleries
Walking Time: The Philosopher's Path takes about 30–45 minutes at a leisurely pace.
Nanzen-ji Temple & Aqueduct | Photo by Sora Sagano on Unsplash
Late Morning: Nanzen-ji Temple & Aqueduct
- Visit the majestic Zen temple complex
- Climb Sanmon Gate for panoramic views
- Photograph the Meiji-era brick aqueduct
Pro Tip: This area is ideal for meditation and quiet reflection — walk slowly and be mindful of temple etiquette.
Lunch Around the Path
Dining Options
- Traditional soba noodles
- Matcha desserts
- Kyoto-style curry rice
Heian Shrine Gardens | Photo by Joshua Lim on Unsplash
Afternoon: Eikan-do Temple & Heian Shrine
Temple & Shrine Highlights
- Eikan-do's stunning fall foliage and peaceful walkways
- Heian Shrine's giant torii gate
- Expansive Japanese garden with ponds and stepping stones
Evening: Explore Okazaki Area or Return to Gion
Evening Options
- Visit Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art
- Relax at Kyoto Modern Terrace café
- Return to Gion for a quiet evening walk
Tips for Day 6
Temple Etiquette
Always remove your shoes when entering temple halls.
Navigation
Bring a paper map or mark locations offline — this area has many winding paths.
Photography
Sunrise or sunset at Ginkaku-ji or Nanzen-ji offers gorgeous lighting for photos.
Atmosphere
Maintain quiet and respect the peaceful atmosphere of these sacred spaces.
Day 8: Osaka Day Trip
Experience the vibrant energy of Osaka, Japan's kitchen and a city known for its outgoing people, amazing street food, and modern attractions. From historic castles to neon-lit entertainment districts, today combines culture, cuisine, and contemporary Japan.
Osaka Castle in Morning Light | Photo by Yu Hao on Unsplash
Morning: Journey & Osaka Castle
- Take an early train from Kyoto Station to Osaka Station (30 minutes)
- Transfer to Tanimachi Line to Tanimachi 4-chrome Station for Osaka Castle
- Explore the castle grounds and museum (opens at 9:00 AM)
- Visit the Nishinomaru Garden for excellent castle views
Tip: Arrive at the castle early to avoid crowds and get the best photos.
Kuromon Ichiba Market | Photo by Sora Sagano on Unsplash
Late Morning: Kuromon Ichiba Market
Market Highlights
- Fresh seafood stalls and sushi
- Local specialties and street food
- Traditional market atmosphere
- Colorful photo opportunities
Must-Try Foods
- Grilled scallops and oysters
- Fresh sashimi
- Tamago (Japanese omelette)
Shinsaibashi Shopping District | Photo by Joshua Lim on Unsplash
Afternoon: Shinsaibashi & Amerikamura
Shopping Areas
- Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street
- Amerikamura fashion district
- Street art and youth culture
- Trendy cafés and boutiques
Dotonbori at Night | Photo by Yu Hao on Unsplash
Evening: Dotonbori Food Adventure
Must-Try Osaka Specialties
- Takoyaki (octopus balls)
- Okonomiyaki (savory pancake)
- Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers)
- Osaka-style ramen
Evening Entertainment
- Iconic Glico Running Man sign
- Neon billboard photography
- Riverside evening stroll
- Optional river cruise
Return to Kyoto
- Regular trains run until around midnight
- 30-minute journey back to Kyoto
- Consider dinner in Dotonbori before departing
Tips for Day 8
Transportation
Consider getting an ICOCA card or day pass for unlimited travel in Osaka.
Food Culture
Osaka is known for "kuidaore" (eat until you drop) – pace yourself through the day!
Photography
Best photos of Dotonbori are after sunset when all neon signs are lit.
Shopping
Many shops offer tax-free shopping for tourists – bring your passport.
Day 9: Hiroshima & Miyajima Day Trip
A deeply moving and historically significant day visiting Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park and the sacred island of Miyajima. This journey combines solemn reflection with the serene beauty of one of Japan's most iconic shrines.
Atomic Bomb Dome | Photo by Jezael Melgoza on Unsplash
Early Morning: Journey to Hiroshima
- Take early Shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima (90 minutes)
- Use JR Pass for the journey if available
- Transfer to Hiroshima city tram to Peace Memorial Park
Tip: Aim for the 7:00-8:00 AM train to maximize your day.
Peace Memorial Park | Photo by Sora Sagano on Unsplash
Morning: Peace Memorial Park & Museum
Key Sites to Visit
- A-Bomb Dome (UNESCO World Heritage site)
- Peace Memorial Museum
- Eternal Flame of Peace
- Peace Bell
Note: The museum can be emotionally intense - take your time and reflect.
Itsukushima Shrine's Floating Torii | Photo by Sora Sagano on Unsplash
Afternoon: Miyajima Island
Island Highlights
- Famous "floating" torii gate
- Itsukushima Shrine
- Mt. Misen (optional ropeway)
- Wild deer encounters
Getting There
- JR train to Miyajimaguchi Station
- Ferry to Miyajima Island (covered by JR Pass)
- 45-minute journey from Hiroshima
Local Specialties
Must-Try Foods
- Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki
- Miyajima's grilled oysters
- Momiji manju (maple-leaf shaped cakes)
Evening: Return Journey
- Return to Hiroshima by ferry and train
- Consider dinner at Okonomimura food village
- Take Shinkansen back to Osaka (90 minutes)
Last ferries from Miyajima depart around 17:00-18:00 depending on season.
Tips for Day 9
Timing
Start early to make the most of this packed day - both locations deserve proper time.
Photography
Check tide times for the best photos of Miyajima's floating torii gate.
Etiquette
Maintain respectful behavior at Peace Memorial Park and religious sites.
Weather
Both locations are largely outdoors - check weather and bring appropriate gear.
Day 10: Kanazawa
Discover Kanazawa, a city that beautifully preserves the spirit of traditional Japan. Famous for its stunning garden, historic districts, and exceptional crafts, Kanazawa offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and artisanal excellence.
Kenroku-en Garden | Photo by Sora Sagano on Unsplash
Morning: Arrival & Kenroku-en Garden
- Take Limited Express from Osaka to Kanazawa (2 hours)
- Store luggage at hotel or station lockers
- Take Loop Bus to Kenroku-en Garden
Kenroku-en Highlights
- One of Japan's three great gardens
- Famous water features and ponds
- Historic teahouses
- Seasonal views (plum, cherry blossoms, autumn leaves)
Tip: Visit early morning for fewer crowds and better photos.
Kanazawa Castle | Photo by Sora Sagano on Unsplash
Late Morning: Kanazawa Castle
Castle Area Exploration
- Restored castle gates and turrets
- Castle park grounds
- Exhibition rooms about castle history
Lunch Break
Local Specialties
- Fresh sushi from Omicho Market
- Jibuni (duck stew)
- Gold leaf ice cream
Nagamachi Samurai District | Photo by Joshua Lim on Unsplash
Afternoon: Historic Districts
Nagamachi Samurai District
- Well-preserved samurai residences
- Nomura Samurai House
- Canals and stone walls
Higashi Chaya District
- Historic geisha district
- Traditional teahouses
- Gold leaf workshops
Evening: Modern Art & Dinner
- Visit 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art (open until 18:00)
- Dinner at Omicho Market area or local izakaya
- Evening stroll through illuminated Higashi Chaya District
Tips for Day 10
Transportation
Consider getting a Kanazawa Loop Bus day pass for easy sightseeing.
Weather
Kanazawa is known for rain - bring an umbrella even on clear days.
Crafts
Look for gold leaf products, Kutani pottery, and Kaga Yuzen silk - perfect souvenirs.
Planning
Many museums close early (around 17:00) - plan your visits accordingly.
Day 11: Takayama
Journey to Takayama, a charming mountain town that preserves the atmosphere of old Japan. Known for its beautifully preserved old town, morning markets, and traditional crafts, Takayama offers an authentic glimpse into Japan's past.
Old Town Takayama | Photo by Sora Sagano on Unsplash
Morning: Journey & Morning Market
- Take Limited Express from Kanazawa to Takayama (2 hours)
- Store luggage at hotel or station lockers
- Visit Miyagawa Morning Market along the river
Morning Market Highlights
- Local produce and fruits
- Traditional snacks
- Local crafts
- Pickled vegetables
Sanmachi Historic District | Photo by Sora Sagano on Unsplash
Late Morning: Sanmachi Historic District
Old Town Exploration
- Traditional merchant houses
- Sake breweries with free tastings
- Traditional craft shops
- Photo opportunities with preserved architecture
Lunch: Local Specialties
Must-Try Foods
- Hida beef (local wagyu)
- Hoba miso (miso grilled on magnolia leaf)
- Mitarashi dango (grilled rice dumplings)
Takayama Jinya | Photo by Joshua Lim on Unsplash
Afternoon: Cultural Exploration
Historical Sites
- Takayama Jinya (historic government house)
- Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine
- Takayama Festival Float Exhibition Hall
Evening: Relaxation & Dinner
- Visit local onsen if staying at ryokan
- Enjoy Hida beef dinner at local restaurant
- Evening stroll through illuminated old town
Evening Options
- Experience traditional ryokan stay
- Night photography in old town
- Local sake tasting
Tips for Day 11
Timing
Morning markets are best before 8:00 AM for freshest produce and fewer crowds.
Photography
Early morning and dusk offer the best lighting for old town photos.
Shopping
Look for local specialties like Sarubobo dolls and wood carvings.
Exploration
The town is compact and walkable - take time to explore side streets.
Day 12: Shirakawa-go & Tokyo Transfer
Experience the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go, famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, before returning to Tokyo for the final part of your journey.
Shirakawa-go in Morning Light | Photo by Sora Sagano on Unsplash
Morning
Bus to Shirakawa-go UNESCO village
Morning Activities
- Early bus from Takayama (50 min)
- Store luggage at information center
- Visit observation deck
- Morning photography session
Late Morning
Explore traditional gassho-zukuri houses
Village Exploration
- Visit Wada House
- Gassho-zukuri Museum
- Local craft workshops
- Traditional lunch experience
Afternoon
Journey to Tokyo via Nagoya
Travel Route
- Bus to Takayama
- Limited Express to Nagoya
- Shinkansen to Tokyo
Evening
Arrival in Tokyo
Evening Options
- Check-in to Tokyo hotel
- Dinner near accommodation
- Orient yourself for tomorrow
Tips for Day 12
Transportation
Book bus tickets to Shirakawa-go in advance during peak seasons.
Photography
Morning light is best for village photos - arrive early.
Luggage
Consider forwarding service to Tokyo hotel.
Timing
Allow 5-6 hours for the full journey to Tokyo.
Day 13: Tokyo Free Day
Your final full day in Tokyo is free to explore based on your interests. Here are several suggested itineraries to make the most of your last day in Japan's capital.
Tokyo Cityscape | Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
Suggested Itineraries
Option 1: Modern Tokyo
- Shibuya Sky observation deck
- Shibuya Scramble Square
- Harajuku fashion streets
- Yoyogi Park stroll
- Trendy cafés and restaurants
Option 2: Traditional & Cultural
- Yanaka Ginza shopping street
- Historic Yanaka neighborhood
- Ueno art museums
- Traditional public bath experience
Option 3: Family Fun
- TeamLab Planets or Borderless
- Joypolis entertainment center
- Tokyo Sea Life Park
- Odaiba shopping malls
Tokyo Shopping District | Photo by Joshua Lim on Unsplash
Shopping Recommendations
Popular Shopping Areas
- Shibuya 109 (fashion)
- Akihabara (electronics)
- Asakusa (souvenirs)
- Ginza (luxury brands)
Recommended Souvenirs
- Japanese snacks and treats
- Traditional crafts
- Fashion items
- Beauty products
Final Dinner Options
Special Dining Experiences
- Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant
- Sky-high dining with city views
- Tsukiji Outer Market sushi
- Local izakaya experience
Tips for Day 13
Planning
Choose one area to focus on rather than trying to see everything.
Shopping
Don't forget your passport for tax-free shopping.
Packing
Leave room in your luggage for souvenirs.
Transport
Get a day pass if planning to use trains frequently.
Day 14: Departure Day
As your Japanese journey comes to an end, use this time to ensure a smooth departure and reflect on your amazing experiences.
Tokyo Morning View | Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
Morning: Final Preparations
Morning Checklist
- Complete packing
- Confirm travel documents
- Settle any hotel charges
- Exchange remaining currency
Airport Transfer Options
To Narita Airport
- Narita Express (N'EX) - 53 minutes from Tokyo Station
- Limousine Bus - 75-125 minutes depending on traffic
- Taxi - approximately 90 minutes (expensive option)
To Haneda Airport
- Tokyo Monorail - 13 minutes from Hamamatsucho
- Keikyu Line - 11 minutes from Shinagawa
- Limousine Bus - 30-45 minutes from major hotels
Airport Information
Before Security
- Last-minute shopping
- Tax refund counter
- Restaurant options
- Post office for sending items
Final Travel Tips
Timing
Allow at least 3 hours before international flights.
Luggage
Check weight restrictions for your airline.
Payments
Keep some cash for last-minute expenses.
Documents
Keep passport and tickets easily accessible.
Thank You for Visiting Japan
We hope this itinerary helped you discover the beauty, culture, and warmth of Japan. Safe travels and またね (mata ne - see you again)!