Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo
Welcome to Japan! Start your adventure by arriving at Narita or Haneda Airport in Tokyo. Once you’ve checked into your accommodation, spend the rest of the day unwinding from your flight or simply walking around your hotel neighborhood.
In the evening, you can head over to Shibuya Crossing, the famous scramble intersection, and then wander through the surrounding area to grab dinner and soak in the fast-paced Tokyo vibes.
Day 2: Explore Tokyo’s Historical Side
Kick off your first full day in Tokyo by visiting Asakusa. Explore Sensoji Temple, one of Tokyo’s most famous and oldest temples. Once you’re finished there, step into Nakamise Shopping Street and browse some local snacks and souvenirs.
In the afternoon, make your way to Ueno Park to visit the many museums and enjoy a peaceful stroll through the park. If you’re into quirky things, you can check out the quirky Harajuku neighborhood, particularly Takeshita Street, which is full of wacky fashion and fun eats.
Day 3: Modern Tokyo
Today, it’s all about Tokyo’s modern face. Start with a trip to Odaiba, Tokyo’s tech and shopping island. You can explore places like the TeamLab Borderless, a mind-blowing digital art museum.
Later, hit up Akihabara, the electronics and anime district. Whether you love gadgets, anime, or video games, this is the place to be. It’s a fun stop for anyone, and even if you’re not a huge electronics fan, it’s worth the visit to see the futuristic side of Japan.
Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko
Take a day trip to Nikko, a city full of culture and nature, just about two hours from Tokyo by train. Visit the famous Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate.
Spend some time exploring the beautiful nature around Nikko, including waterfalls and scenic trails. If time permits, stop by Lake Chuzenji for a peaceful lakeside stroll before heading back to Tokyo in the evening.
Day 5: Travel to Hakone
Time to leave the big city behind and head to Hakone, the famous hot spring town and gateway to Mount Fuji. Take the train and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Once you arrive, spend the day exploring Hakone’s main attractions like the Open-Air Museum and the Hakone Shrine, which sits right on the peaceful shores of Lake Ashi.
Day 6: Relax in Hakone
Today is all about relaxing. Take a dip in one of Hakone’s many hot springs (onsen) for a little bit of luxury. Most hotels in the area offer private onsen experiences, or you could visit a public one.
If you’re feeling up for it, head up the Hakone Ropeway for some spectacular views of Mount Fuji. End your day with a traditional kaiseki dinner at your ryokan.
Day 7: Kyoto Arrival and Gion Walk
Take the shinkansen (bullet train) from Hakone to Kyoto. You’ll arrive in Japan’s cultural heart, known for its temples and traditional atmosphere. Once you’ve checked into your Kyoto accommodation, head to the Gion district in the evening. Gion is the famous geisha district full of traditional wooden machiya houses.
Walking through these streets feels like stepping back in time. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a maiko or geiko on their way to an appointment. Grab dinner nearby and enjoy a quieter, more relaxed Kyoto after the fast-paced Tokyo life.
Day 8: Fushimi Inari and Traditional Kyoto
Start your morning by visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates that stretch up the mountain. It’s one of Kyoto’s most iconic photo spots.
Head to Kiyomizu-dera after, which offers stunning views of Kyoto. Then, spend the afternoon in the Higashiyama District, a beautifully preserved area full of traditional shops and tea houses. End the day visiting the Zen garden at Tofuku-ji Temple.
Day 9: Arashiyama and Bamboo Grove
Wake up early to visit Arashiyama on the outskirts of Kyoto. Walk through the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove for an otherworldly experience, then head to the Iwatayama Monkey Park if you’re up for a bit of a hike.
Don’t forget to explore Tenryu-ji Temple and its beautiful gardens before spending a quiet afternoon by the Katsura River. You can take a boat ride or just take a stroll along the riverbanks for some peace and relaxation.
Day 10: Nara Day Trip
Hop on a train for a day trip to Nara, the ancient capital of Japan, home to some of the country’s oldest and most historic sites. Visit Todai-ji Temple, which houses the massive Great Buddha statue.
Make sure to spend time in Nara Park, where you can get up close with the friendly (and sometimes pushy) wild deer. Before heading back to Kyoto, visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine with its thousands of lanterns.
Day 11: Day Trip to Himeji
Today calls for a trip to Himeji to see the iconic Himeji Castle, Japan’s most iconic and best-preserved castle. Known as “The White Heron,” the castle is not only gorgeous but also rich in history.
Afterward, take a short walk to Koko-en Garden, a traditional-style garden offering relaxing paths and small ponds. Once you’ve explored, hop on the train back to Kyoto.
Day 12: Travel to Osaka and Explore Dotonbori
Time to head to Osaka! It’s only a short train ride from Kyoto. Once you arrive and check into your accommodation, head to the heart of Osaka: Dotonbori.
The neighborhood is packed with street food vendors, neon lights, and plenty of restaurants serving Japan’s famous takoyaki and okonomiyaki. It’s a lively area, great for an evening stroll and indulging in some local eats.
Day 13: Osaka Castle and Kuromon Market
Start the day by visiting Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. Explore the grounds and museum while enjoying views of the city’s skyline from the top of the keep.
In the afternoon, head over to Kuromon Ichiba Market, also known as “Osaka’s Kitchen.” Sample fresh seafood, local delicacies, and other regional favorites. It’s a great way to experience Osaka’s food culture.
Day 14: Departure Day
It’s your last day in Japan! Depending on your flight schedule, you can spend the morning revisiting any spots in Osaka or taking a short visit to nearby Osaka Aquarium. If there’s time, grab one last bite of Japan’s amazing food before heading to the airport.
Time to say goodbye to an incredible two weeks in Japan!
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