Japan in 2 weeks
Japan
Embark on a delightful 2-week adventure across Japan that blends the best of tradition, nature, and modernity. This carefully crafted itinerary is your ticket to a balanced journey, filled with unforgettable experiences which you can adjust to make your own 10-20 days itineray to Japan a dream come true!
Get ready for an incredible journey starting in Tokyo, where the buzz of modern life meets tradition. Travel back in time through the charming villages of the Japanese Alps – Takayama, Shirakawago, and Kanazawa. Experience Kyoto's mix of classic charm and modern vibes. Don't miss the striking beauty of Himeji Castle before diving into Hiroshima's history and the peace of Miyajima. Wrap it all up in lively Osaka, where you can savor Japan's best flavors.
With this guide in one hand and the Shinkansen tickets on the other, let the rhythm of the rails guide you through beuaty of Japan's landscapes, culture and gastronomy.
Index
General Tips
Itinerary
- Day 1-3: Tokyo
- Day 4-6: Japanese Alps
- Day 7-9: Kyoto
- Day 10-12: Himeji, Hiroshima & Miyajima
- Day 13-15: Osaka & back home
General Tips
🌐 Itinerary organization: I have organized the itinirary explanining you the prefered options for transportation, restaurants, hotels and activities to choose based on my experience and also some friends' tips. Although we did a 2-week itinerary you can transform this guide into a 10-20 days trip according to your preferences. Take into account that this is a perfect itinerary for your first time in Japan and does not include some additional spots that in my opinion would be more of a longer stay or second trip choice. However, this is completely up to you!
📸 Pictures: unfortunately this time, the pics are not mine!
📅When was I there? April 2019, cherry-blossom season - Itinerary revised in 2023.
☀️Weather: Japan experiences four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are popular due to mild temperatures and picturesque landscapes. Summer (June to August) is less optimal since it gets very hot and humid and the possibility of typhoons. Winter (December to February) brings colder temperatures, especially in northern areas, making it ideal for winter sports enthusiasts. With that said, Spring would be my prefered choice, especially during the month of April with Sakura: cherry blossoms.
✅Visa: Citizens of many countries can enter Japan for tourism purposes without a visa for up to 90 days. Check the official Japanese government website for visa requirements based on your nationality.
💪🏻Healthcare: Consider travel insurance that covers medical expenses abroad.
💰Money: Cash is widely used, so it's advisable to have yen on hand. consider using a reliable currency exchange service like Revolut to avoid high fees.
📱Wifi: Consider renting a Pocket Wi-Fi or buying a local SIM card for continuous internet access. You can also buy Airalo eSIM directly from the app - it provides internet access but not a proper phone number.
🚘 Transportation: Consider getting a Japan Rail Pass (JRP) if planning to travel between cities as this guide suggests, since it offers unlimited travel on most JR trains for a fixed period. Within urban cities, Japan has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including trains, subways, and buses.
🍽️ Regional Delights: In Tokyo, savor sushi at Tsukiji Market or try monjayaki at Tsukishima Monja Street. In Osaka, indulge in takoyaki (octopus-filled balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).
Must Cultural Experiences: Visit traditional sites like temples, shrines, and tea houses. Try a traditional onsen (hot spring bath) experience. Participate in a tea ceremony for a taste of Japanese culture. Dress like a sammurai or a Geisha.
⭐️Highly recommend: you'll see some stars along the text which mean that this is a MUST!
💡Add-ons: find some additional options marked with a light bulb for you to tailor the trip to your preferences.
🙋🏽♀️Doubts?: If you have any quick questions you can reach me at my IG account.
Itinierary
Day 1-3: Tokyo
📍 City Hub: Tokyo
🏨 Hotel Recommendation: APA Hotel Higashi-Shinjuku
🍽️ Dining Recommendations:
- Ueno and Asakusa: Ippudo Ueno Hirokoji Shop (Ramen), Asakusa Adventure (Various Culinary Delights), Iriyama Sembei (Rice Crackers), Hoppy-dori Specialties (Street Food)
- Akihabara: Maidreaming (Maid Cafe), Gyukatsu Motomura (tonkatsu)
- Ginza: Bairin Ginza Honten (Tonkatsu), Hakkou (Sushi Bar), Bifteck no Kawamura (Kobe Beef Teppanyaki)
- Shinjuku: Omide-yokocho (Yakitori), Ichiran(Ramen), Teppan Baby (Konomiyaki), Yoshinoya (Gyudon), Gyozalo (Dumplings), Sushizanmai (sushi)
- Roppongi: Roppongi Robataya (grilles skewers)
- Shibuya: Sushi no Midori (Quality Sushi), Maiizumi (Culinary Delights), Tonkatsu Maisen (Tonkatsu)
- Sweet treats: Rikuro (cotton cheesecake), Pablo (cheesecake)
Day 1: Ueno, Asakusa, Akihabara, Tokyo Skytree
Morning: Begin at Ueno Park for stunning cherry blossoms. Highlights include Shinobazu Pond, Toshogu Shrine, Five-story Pagoda, Kiyomizu Kannon-do Temple, and Jomyoin.
Lunch: Ippudo Ueno Hirokoji Shop.
Afternoon: Dive into Asakusa, exploring: Senso-ji Temple, grand Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise Shopping Street, Hozomon Gate, Shin-Nakamise Street... Savor panoramic vistas of Tokyo from the Tokyo Skytree observation decks.
Evening: Immerse yourself in the world of anime and manga in Akihabara. Explore shops and stalls around Akihabara Station and Chuo-Dori.
Dinner: Hoppy-dori specialties.
Day 2: Tokyo - Imperial Palace, Ginza, Shinjuku
Morning: Start your day by heading to the Imperial Palace (Kokyo), enjoying the serene ambiance and beautiful scenery. Make your way to the Tokyo Station area or visit the Pokémon Café (for Pokemon fans!) Explore Ginza, strolling along Chuo Dori and passing by landmarks like: The Kabuki-Za traditional theater, Sony Building, Ginza Wako with its iconic clock, Tokyu Plaza Ginza, Luxury fashion and accessory stores. Depending on your time, you might visit the Hamarikyu Gardens and its charming teahouse or experience the unique Tsukishima Monja Street for a taste of monjayaki.
Lunch: Bifteck no Kawamura (Kobe beef teppanyaki)
Afternoon and Evening: Take a metro or train to the vibrant district of Shinjuku, Tokyo's administrative and entertainment hub. Visit Shinjuku Gyoen, a tranquil oasis amidst the urban chaos.
Evening: As dusk falls, make your way to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for its free observation decks to watch the sun set. Once night falls, explore the enigmatic allure of Kabukicho, Shinjuku's famous entertainment and red-light district.
Dinner: Ichiran (ramen).
Nighlife: Explore Shinjuku's unique bars and bohemian atmosphere of the Golden Gai alley or try a karaoke night!
Day 3: Tokyo - Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Omotesando, Roppongi, Shibuya
Morning: Begin your day at the tranquil Meiji Shrine and enjoy a serene walk through the lush Yoyogi Park. After the shrine, emerge onto the bustling Takeshita Street in Harajuku. and explore the vibrant pedestrian street, known for its unique fashion and culture. Discover quirky shops, including the Hedgehog Café and Shiner with rainbow-colored treats.
Lunch: Gyozalo (enjoy dumplings).
Afternoon: Head to Omotesando, a street celebrated for its architecture and high-end fashion.Catch glimpses of notable buildings while strolling: V28, Iceberg, Laforet, Tokyu Plaza Omotesando rooftop, Omotesando HillsTods, Hugo Boss... Consider a leisurely walk along Cat Street for more boutiques and creativity.
Evening: Travel to Roppongi for a stunning sunset at Mori Tower, where you'll be able to admire Tokyo's lights. As night falls, take the metro to Shibuya. Witness the iconic Shibuya Crossing, one of the world's busiest pedestrian crossings. Pay your respects to the Hachiko Statue and its heartwarming story. Explore the quirky Dogenzaka area, or the "Love Hotel Hill," for a glimpse of unique architecture. Venture to the Nonbei Yokocho, the "Drunkard's Alley," for a step back in time. Enjoy tiny, nostalgic bars where you can enjoy a drink or two and might get some "tapas" (although not enough to eat).
Dinner: Tonkatsu Maisen (tonkatsu).
💡More time?
You can add an extra day so that your itinerary is not so packed.
Additionally, you can consider adding 1 or 2 extra days and explore the following regions from Tokyo:
If you stay in Hakone you can also get nice views of Mount Fuji! Stay in a traditional ryokan with views!
However if you want to stay in one of the best places to see Mount Fuji and do some trecking experiences, I would then recommend Kawaguchi Lake.
Day 4- 6: Japanese Alps
📍 City Hub: Takayama
🏨 Hotel Recommendation: Hida Hotel Plaza
🍽️ Dining Recommendations (Takayama): Sakaguchiya (Hida beef), Maruaki Hida Beef (Hida beef), Sumiyoshi, Matsuri No Mori (varied dishes)
Day 4: Travel to Takayama
Morning: Get up early and enjoy the scenic train journey to Takayama.
Lunch: Visit the Miyagawa Morning Market and enjoy local specialties for lunch. You can try some mitarashi-dango (skewered rice dumplings covered in a sweet soy glaze).
Afternoon/ Evening: Explore the charming streets of the old town and have some rest, maybe at the onsen of your hotel.
Enjoy dinner at Maruaki Hida Beef.
Day 5: Shirakawago
Morning: Take a train trip to the traditional village of Shirakawago, known for its thatched-roof houses. Visit the village and its sorroundings.
Lunch: Savor local soba noodles at Tenshukaku
Afternoon/ Evening: Go back to Takayama to rest and have dinner.
Day 6: Kanazawa
Morning: Hop on a train to Kanazawa, a city renowned for its preserved samurai and geisha districts. Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most beautiful landscaped gardens, and explore the historic Higashi Chaya district.
Lunch: Try fresh seafood at Omi-cho Market and ensure to get your golden icecream at Hakuichi’s.
Afternoon/ Evening: return to Takayama, rest and have dinner.
💡More time?
There are other beatiful villages and places along the japanese alps. Check them out!
Another option although it involves a bit of more travelling is to visit Matsumoto Castle.
Day 7-9: Kyoto
📍 City Hub: Kyoto
🏨 Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Gimmond Kyoto
🍽️ Dining Recommendations:
- Gion and Higashiyama: Chao Chao Sanjo Kiyamachi (gyozas), Ippudo Ramen (ramen), Ramen Sen no Kaze (ramen), Gion Kappa (izakaya - tapas)
- Kyoto Station Area: Chojiro (kaiten sushi), Katsukura (tonkatsu), Rokurinsha (ramen)
- Various locations: Yoshinoya (beef bowl), Curry House Coco Ichibanya (curry)
Day 7: A first sneak peek to Kyoto
Take an early Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Kyoto. Arrive in Kyoto by late morning.
Morning: Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple for panoramic views. Explore the Higashiyama District for traditional shops and tea houses.
Lunch: Chao Chao Sanjo Kiyamachi (dumplings and don’t forget to order the Nutella ones for dessert!)
Afeternoon and evening: Stroll through Gion to catch a glimpse of geisha. Some hihglights to consider: Sanjo Station, Ontho Market, Kenininji Temple (Japan's oldest temple), Shijo Street, Yasaka Shrine, Maruyama Park, Shirakawa Canal (cherry blossoms), Heian Shrine & Silver Pavilion (Ginkakuji).
Dinner: Ippudo Ramen (ramen)
Day 8: Continue exploring Kyoto
Morning: Kyoto Station area
Begin at Kyoto Tower for a panoramic view and then continue visiting: Higashi Hogan-ji Temple, Shosei-en Garden, Nishi Hongan-ji Temple, Toji Temple (five-story pagoda) and Tofukuji Temple.
Lunch at Kyoto Station
Afternoon: It's all about royalty
Visit Nijo Castle, an iconic palace-castle of the Tokugawa era.
Explore the Imperial Palace (reservation required).
Head to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), covered in gold leaf.
Nearby, visit Kitano Tenmangu Shrine.
Dinner: Gion Kappa for another chance to see Geishas.
Day 9: Day Trip to Nara
Morning: Take a train to Nara (about an hour from Kyoto). Start at Nara Park to see the famous bowing deer and visit Todai-ji Temple with the Great Buddha.
Lunch: grab a quick bite.
Afternoon: Visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine and explore the charming streets of Nara-machi.
Evening: Return to Kyoto. Relax and have dinner at a local restaurant.
💡More time?
Add one extra day to explore Fushimi Inary and Arashiyama: Start your day by exploring the vibrant torii gates of Fushimi Inari in the morning and then take a train to Arashiyama to enjoy the iconic bamboo grove, Togetsukyo Bridge, and Tenryu-ji Temple.
Day 10-12: Himeji, Hiroshima & Miyajima
📍 City Hub: Hiroshima
🏨 Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Granvia Hiroshima
🍽️ Dining Recommendations: Okonomimura (multi-story building dedicated to okonomiyaki), Hatchobori (tsukemen or dipping ramen)
Day 10: Himeji
Morning: Depart from Kyoto to Himeji by Shinkansen (1.5 hours).
Along the day: Explore Himeji Castle, one of Japan’s most well-preserved castles, especially beatiful during Spring with cherry blossoms.
Afternoon/ Evening: Depart from Himeji to Hiroshima by Shinkansen (2 hours) and have dinner.
Day 11: Hiroshima
Along the day: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, including the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.
Evening: relax and explore Hiroshima's local cuisine.
Day 12: Mijayima
Morning: Take a train to Miyajimaguchi and then a ferry to Miyajima Island.
Along the day: Visit Itsukushima Shrine with its iconic floating torii gate and explore the island's scenic spots. Hike or take the ropeway up to Mount Misen for panoramic views.
Evening: Return to Hiroshima and have dinner.
Day 13 - 15: Osaka & back home
📍 City Hub: Osaka for the first night but Tokyo for the second one to make your going back a bit easier
🏨 Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Vista Grande Osaka
🍽️ Dining Recommendations: Dotonbori Kukuru (okonomiyaki), Kuromon Ichiba Market (fresh seafood), Umeda Sky Building Floating Garden Observatory Restaurant (a bit more expensive but great views!)
Day 13: Exploring Osaka
Morning: Depart from Hiroshima to Osaka by Shinkansen (2 hours) and do the hotel check in.
Morning & Lunch: take some tokayaki (fried octopus-balls) on the go and Visit Osaka Castle, an iconic historical site.
Afternoon/ Evening: Explore Dotonbori, a lively entertainment district known for its neon signs and street food.
Dinner: Go to Umeda Sky Building Floating Garden Observatory Restaurant for some delicious food and incredible views.
Day 14: Osaka's market and back to Tokio
Morning & lunch: rest a little bit and then explore Osaka's Market to have some lunch along the differents stalls
Afternoon: take a Shinkansen back to Tokyo (3 hours) (or your departure flight city)
Day 15: Back home
💡More time?
Add 1 or 2 extra days adding one of these trips from Osaka:
If you love theme-parks, you can also add and extra day to venture to Universal Studios Japan for thrilling rides and cinematic experiences.
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