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Epic 31-Day Summer Journey Through Japan's Seven Regions: Culture, Nature, Cuisine & Nightlife

Viewed by 129 travelers

Day 1: Hokkaido Arrival

Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan on July 1, 2029

9:00am

Breakfast at AIN SOPH. Journey Sapporo

Enjoy a Western-Japanese fusion breakfast in this cozy cafe known for fresh organic ingredients, perfect to energize your first day.
JPY1500, 1h

10:30am

Sapporo Clock Tower

Visit one of Sapporo's historical landmarks, a symbol of the city, which provides a glimpse into early western-style architecture in Japan.
JPY200, 0h40m

11:30am

Odori Park Stroll

Take a leisurely walk through Odori Park, the green heart of Sapporo with seasonal flowers and fountains.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Sapporo Beer Garden

Taste classic Jingisukan (mutton BBQ), Sapporo's specialty, accompanied by local craft beers.
JPY3000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Hokkaido University Botanical Garden

Explore native plants and peaceful paths inside this university-run garden, open till 5pm.
JPY260, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade

Discover local shops, souvenirs, and snack on Hokkaido treats in this historic covered shopping street.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Sapporo Ramen Republic

Sample diverse styles of Hokkaido ramen under one roof, perfect for experiencing regional flavors.
JPY1500, 1h

8:00pm

Nightlife in Susukino

Enjoy a vibrant nightlife district with bars, karaoke, and live music until late.
Varies, 2h
Find Hotels in Sapporo

Day 2: Otaru & Nature

Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan on July 2, 2029

7:30am

Breakfast at LeTAO Main Shop

Indulge in a famous cheesecake and coffee before heading out.
JPY1000, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Otaru by JR Train

Short scenic 45-minute train ride along the coast to the charming canal city of Otaru.
Covered by JR Pass, 0h45m

10:00am

Otaru Canal Walk

Stroll along preserved historic canal lined with glass shops and warehouses, capturing the spirit of early 20th century trade port.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Visit Kitaichi Glass Workshops

Shop and watch artisans create beautiful glassware unique to Otaru.
Free, 0h45m

12:30pm

Lunch at Sushi Foo

Enjoy some of the freshest sushi, featuring Hokkaido seafood caught nearby.
JPY3500, 1h30m

2:00pm

Mount Tengu Hiking

Take a moderate 2.5-hour hike for panoramic views of Otaru and Ishikari Bay.
Free, 2h30m

5:00pm

Return to Sapporo

Relax on the train back to Sapporo after your nature outing.
Covered by JR Pass, 0h45m

6:00pm

Dinner at Sapporo Soup Curry GARAKU

Try a spicy and savory Hokkaido-style soup curry, a unique regional dish.
JPY1500, 1h
Find Hotels in Otaru

Day 3: Tohoku Arrival

Aomori, Tohoku, Japan on July 3, 2029

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start early with a traditional Japanese breakfast buffet at your Sapporo hotel.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Fly from Sapporo to Aomori Airport

Short morning flight to Aomori to begin your Tohoku adventure.
JPY8000 approx, 1h

10:00am

Check-in and Drop Bags at Hotel

Settle into your hotel in central Aomori.
Varies, 0h30m

10:30am

Nebuta Museum Wa-Rasse

Explore the vibrant history of the famous Nebuta Festival floats with interactive exhibits.
JPY620, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at aomori Gyosai Center

Sample fresh seafood rice bowls at this popular fish market restaurant area.
JPY2000, 1h

1:30pm

Aomori Bay Bridge & Waterfront Promenade

Enjoy panoramic views of the bay area, ideal for afternoon photos and relaxing walks.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Drive or Train to Hakkoda Mountains (or Local Bus)

Explore the beautiful mountainous nature region famous for hiking and hot springs.
Bus JPY1200, 1h30m

4:30pm

Hiking & Nature Walk

Spend your afternoon hiking short trails and soaking in Hakkoda's rich flora and fauna.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel or Nearby Izakaya

Try local Tohoku specialties like fresh river fish or Aomori apples in dishes at a cozy izakaya.
JPY2500, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Aomori

Day 4: Sendai & Matsushima Bay

Sendai, Tohoku, Japan on July 4, 2029

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional Japanese-style breakfast to prepare for a full day exploring.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Train from Aomori to Sendai via Shinkansen

High-speed train ride through scenic Tohoku countryside to Sendai city.
Covered by JR Pass, 1h30m

10:00am

Sendai Castle Ruins (Aoba Castle)

Visit the historic site with panoramic views of Sendai city and exhibits about Date Masamune.
JPY310, 1h

11:30am

Shopping and Exploring Sendai Station

Check out local crafts, sweets, and malls for souvenirs and snacks.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Rikyu Sendai

Famous for beef tongue specialty in Sendai, a must-try regional dish.
JPY2500, 1h

2:00pm

Day Trip to Matsushima Bay

Take a local train/bus to one of Japan’s top scenic spots featuring over 260 pine islands.
Train/Bus JPY1200 roundtrip, 1h one way

3:00pm

Matsushima Bay Cruise

Enjoy a 40-minute cruise showcasing iconic pine-covered islands.
JPY1300, 0h45m

4:00pm

Visit Zuiganji Temple

Explore this historic Zen temple with beautiful rock gardens nearby.
JPY600, 1h

5:30pm

Return to Sendai

Head back to city to relax after a full day.
Included, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Kokubuncho Nightlife District

Explore numerous izakayas and bars in Sendai’s lively entertainment area for an authentic night out.
Varies, 2h
Find Hotels in Sendai

Day 5: Tokyo Arrival

Tokyo, Kanto, Japan on July 5, 2029

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a Japanese breakfast or Western options included at Sendai hotel.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Shinkansen from Sendai to Tokyo

Fast train ride bringing you to the capital in under 2 hours.
Covered by JR Pass, 1h30m

10:00am

Check-in and Refresh

Drop luggage and freshen up at your Tokyo accommodation near Shinjuku or Shibuya.
Varies, 1h

11:00am

Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine

Explore this peaceful Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji, surrounded by lush forest in the city.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Afuri Ramen

Sample yuzu-flavored ramen, a refreshing twist in the densely packed ramen scene.
JPY1200, 1h

1:30pm

Harajuku & Takeshita Street

Dive into youthful fashion, quirky shops, and street food in this vibrant district.
Free, 2h

3:30pm

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue

Experience the world’s busiest crosswalk and visit the famous loyal dog statue nearby.
Free, 1h

4:30pm

Takeshita Dori Snacks

Try trendy crepes and other street snacks unique to Tokyo youth culture.
JPY800, 0h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Enjoy ambience that inspired Kill Bill’s iconic scene serving quality izakaya food and drinks.
JPY4000, 2h

8:30pm

Night Exploration in Shinjuku

Explore Kabukicho and Golden Gai for bars and nightlife vibrant with locals and tourists.
Varies, 2h
Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 6: Nikko Day Trip

Nikko, Tochigi, Japan on July 6, 2029

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Quick breakfast to prepare for a day outside Tokyo.
Included, 0h45m

7:45am

Travel to Nikko via JR and Tobu Railways

Take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen and Tobu line; about 2 hours journey to the historic town.
Covered by JR Pass + Tobu Pass approx JPY2500, 2h

10:00am

Nikko Toshogu Shrine

Visit the lavishly decorated shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu with its famous carvings and gold leaf.
JPY1300, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Casual eatery famous for skewers and local soba noodles near the shrine.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Kegon Falls & Lake Chuzenji

Enjoy a scenic bus ride followed by spectacular waterfall views and lake walk in the surrounding national park.
Bus JPY1000, Falls entrance JPY570, 2h

3:30pm

Return to Tokyo

Relax on the train after your day exploring nature and culture.
Covered by JR Pass + Tobu Pass, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Toriki Yakitori

Enjoy expertly grilled chicken skewers in an intimate setting, showcasing Japanese izakaya favorites.
JPY4000, 1h30m

8:00pm

Evening in Roppongi Hills

Visit Mori Tower Observatory for city night views and explore Roppongi nightlife.
Observatory JPY1800, 2h
Find Hotels in Nikko

Day 7: Tokyo to Nagoya

Nagoya, Chubu, Japan on July 7, 2029

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast to prepare for the train journey.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagoya

Ride the bullet train about 1 hour 40 minutes south to Nagoya city center.
Covered by JR Pass, 1h40m

10:15am

Check-in and Luggage Drop

Settle in your hotel and get ready for sightseeing.
Varies, 0h30m

11:00am

Atsuta Shrine Visit

Visit one of Shinto’s most significant shrines, home to the sacred sword Kusanagi.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Yamamotoya Honten

Try Nagoya-style miso katsu, a crispy pork cutlet with rich miso sauce.
JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Nagoya Castle

Explore the historic castle famous for golden shachihoko (mythical tiger-fish) ornaments.
JPY500, 1h30m

3:45pm

Explore Osu Shopping District

Wander a lively arcade filled with shops, street food, and quirky stores.
Free, 1h30m

5:30pm

Nagoya City Science Museum

See the planetarium and interactive exhibits, open till 7pm on weekends.
JPY800, 1h30m

7:15pm

Dinner at Sekai no Yamachan

Famous for its spicy tebasaki chicken wings, an unmatched Nagoya specialty.
JPY2000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Nagoya

Day 8: Takayama & Alpine Culture

Takayama, Chubu, Japan on July 8, 2029

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Quick morning meal before regional train travel.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Train from Nagoya to Takayama

Scenic 2.5-hour train through the Japanese Alps region.
Covered by JR Pass, 2h30m

10:30am

Takayama Old Town Tour

Explore beautifully preserved Edo-period streets with traditional houses and shops.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Heianraku

Try Hida beef sushi and other local delicacies in this well-known eatery.
JPY2500, 1h

1:45pm

Takayama Jinya

Visit this historical government house from the Edo period, a rare intact example.
JPY430, 1h

3:00pm

Hida Folk Village (Takayama Yatai Kaikan)

Discover traditional farmhouses and culture with festival float displays.
JPY700, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax and Explore Local Shops

Shop for crafts like lacquerware and sake.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Maruaki Steakhouse

Savor premium Hida beef steak, a regional luxury food.
JPY5000, 2h
Find Hotels in Takayama

Day 9: Kyoto Cultural Start

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan on July 9, 2029

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Morning meal before transfer to Kansai region.
Included, 0h45m

8:30am

Train from Takayama to Kyoto

Travel 3.5 hours via JR line with transfer at Nagoya on your way to the ancient capital.
Covered by JR Pass, 3h30m

12:15pm

Check-in Kyoto Hotel

Drop luggage and refresh.
Varies, 0h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample diverse Kyoto foods in the renowned food market, including yuba, matcha sweets, and street snacks.
JPY2000, 1h30m

2:30pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Historic hilltop temple with spectacular views of Kyoto city and wooden stage platform.
JPY400, 1h30m

4:15pm

Explore Gion District

Walk through traditional streets to spot Geisha and tea houses, enjoying old Japan ambiance.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Delight in kaiseki-style multi-course dinner featuring local seasonal ingredients.
JPY6000, 2h

8:30pm

Evening Walk by Shirakawa Canal

Enjoy serene night strolls by the willow-lined canal, illuminated gently.
Free, 1h
Find Hotels in Kyoto

Day 10: Kyoto Temples & Nightlife

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan on July 10, 2029

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Filling breakfast to prepare for temple exploration day.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore thousands of vermilion torii gates through mountainous trails starting early to avoid crowds.
Free, 2h

11:00am

Tofuku-ji Temple

Visit this Zen temple famous for its Autumn leaves and beautiful gardens.
JPY400, 1h

12:15pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Try handmade udon noodles in authentic Japanese settings near Gion.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Admire the stunning gold-leaf covered Zen temple reflected in its pond.
JPY400, 1h

2:45pm

Ryoan-ji Rock Garden

Contemplate simplicity and Zen philosophy in the world’s most famous rock garden.
JPY500, 1h

4:00pm

Nishijin Textile Center

Discover traditional kimono weaving and maybe try on a kimono.
JPY1000, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Choose from many restaurants in this lively alley known for nightlife and traditional dining.
JPY4000, 2h

9:00pm

Nightlife at Kiyamachi Street

Enjoy bars, clubs, and live music in this youthful nightlife area along the river.
Varies, 2h
Find Hotels in Kyoto

Day 11: Nara Day Trip

Nara, Kansai, Japan on July 11, 2029

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Quick meal before your day trip.
Included, 0h45m

8:30am

Train from Kyoto to Nara

Approx. 45-minute JR train ride to Japan’s ancient capital.
Covered by JR Pass, 0h45m

9:15am

Todai-ji Temple

Marvel at the Great Buddha statue in one of the largest wooden buildings worldwide.
JPY600, 1h30m

11:00am

Nara Park & Deer Interaction

Stroll the expansive park feeding and mingling with friendly deer roaming freely.
JPY150 for deer crackers, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Maguro Koya

Enjoy fresh tuna dishes, a specialty of this popular local restaurant.
JPY2000, 1h

1:45pm

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Visit this UNESCO site famous for its lantern-lined paths and spiritual ambiance.
JPY500, 1h

3:00pm

Isuien Garden

Relax within this beautifully landscaped Japanese garden close to the city center.
JPY900, 1h

4:30pm

Return to Kyoto

Train back to Kyoto for rest or further exploring.
Covered by JR Pass, 0h45m

6:00pm

Dinner at Menbaka Fire Ramen

Experience fiery ramen where the bowl is flambéed before serving, exciting and tasty.
JPY1200, 1h

7:30pm

Relaxing Evening Walk or Bar

Enjoy a calm evening strolling Kyoto’s quiet streets or visiting a local bar.
Varies, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Nara

Day 12: Hiroshima History

Hiroshima, Chugoku, Japan on July 12, 2029

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a quick hotel breakfast prior to early departure.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Shinkansen from Kyoto to Hiroshima

About 2-hour bullet train ride west to historic Hiroshima.
Covered by JR Pass, 2h

10:00am

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum

Visit the poignant park dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb and learn about history.
Museum JPY200, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Okonomimura

Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki pancakes, renowned as a must-eat local specialty.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Miyajima Island Trip

Ferry to the sacred island famous for Itsukushima Shrine and floating torii gate.
Ferry JPY360 one way, 0h40m ferry + exploration

2:45pm

Itsukushima Shrine

Explore the iconic shrine built over water, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
JPY300, 1h

4:00pm

Mount Misen Cable Car & Hike

Take the cable car then hike to viewpoints overlooking the Seto Inland Sea.
JPY1800 roundtrip, 2h

6:30pm

Return to Hiroshima

Ferry back to Hiroshima city.
Included, 0h40m

7:30pm

Dinner at Nagataya Okonomiyaki

Another chance to savor delicious okonomiyaki in a lively local setting.
JPY1500, 1h
Find Hotels in Hiroshima

Day 13: Fukuoka & Kyushu Start

Fukuoka, Kyushu, Japan on July 13, 2029

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Morning meal before travel to Kyushu region.
Included, 0h45m

9:00am

Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Fukuoka (Hakata Station)

Fast train approximately 1 hour to Kyushu's largest city.
Covered by JR Pass, 1h

10:15am

Check-in & Freshen Up

Settle into your hotel in central Hakata.
Varies, 0h45m

11:00am

Kushida Shrine Visit

Explore this famous Shinto shrine known for its role in the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival.
Free, 1h

12:15pm

Lunch at Ichiran Ramen

Experience the iconic Hakata tonkotsu ramen in a unique solo dining setting.
JPY1000, 1h

1:30pm

Ohori Park and Japanese Garden

Relax by a serene lake and explore traditional Japanese garden landscapes.
Free, 1h30m

3:15pm

Fukuoka Tower

Visit a 234-meter tower for panoramic views of the city and bay.
JPY800, 1h

5:00pm

Tenjin Underground Shopping Mall

Explore extensive shops and eateries and a lively atmosphere in downtown Fukuoka.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Yatai Food Stalls Dinner

Dine al fresco at famous street food stalls serving local delicacies like yakitori and mentaiko.
JPY2000, 2h
Find Hotels in Fukuoka

Day 14: Nagasaki History & Culture

Nagasaki, Kyushu, Japan on July 14, 2029

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up before traveling to historic Nagasaki.
Included, 0h45m

8:30am

Train from Fukuoka to Nagasaki

Approx. 2 hours on the limited express through scenic western Kyushu.
Covered by JR Pass, 2h

10:45am

Atomic Bomb Museum & Peace Park

Visit moving exhibits commemorating Nagasaki's WWII history and desire for peace.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Shippoku Hamakatsu

Try Nagasaki’s unique fusion cuisine blending Japanese, Chinese, and Western cooking.
JPY3000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Glover Garden

Wander hillside gardens with western-style mansions and views over Nagasaki harbor.
JPY610, 1h30m

3:45pm

Oura Church

Visit the oldest Catholic church in Japan, a National Treasure.
JPY300, 0h45m

4:30pm

Mount Inasa Night View

Take ropeway to summit for one of Japan's top nighttime city views just before sunset.
JPY1440 roundtrip, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Kaminoura

Savor fresh seafood dishes with a view of the harbor.
JPY3500, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Nagasaki

Day 15: Okinawa Beach & Culture

Naha, Okinawa, Japan on July 15, 2029

6:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early meal before domestic flight to Okinawa.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Flight from Nagasaki to Naha, Okinawa

Approx. 2-hour domestic flight to Okinawa’s capital city.
JPY12000 approx, 2h

10:15am

Check-in at Naha Hotel

Drop bags and freshen up.
Varies, 0h30m

11:00am

Shurijo Castle Park

Visit reconstructed Ryukyu Kingdom castle with cultural exhibits and gardens.
JPY820, 1h30m

12:45pm

Lunch at Yappari Steak

Try Okinawan-style steak known for its tenderness and flavor.
JPY2500, 1h

2:00pm

Kokusai Street Shopping

Explore lively market street with souvenir shops, snack stalls, and cafes.
Free, 1h30m

3:45pm

Fukushu-en Garden

Relax in this serene Chinese-style garden in the heart of Naha.
JPY300, 1h

5:00pm

Relax at Naminoue Beach

Enjoy late afternoon at one of Okinawa’s accessible urban beaches.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ukishima Garden

Healthy Okinawa cuisine with vegan and local specialties in a friendly atmosphere.
JPY3000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Naha
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