Honeymoon Itinerary: Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto

  • Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
    Estimated travel time from airport: 1 hour

    Start your honeymoon with a bang in Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital. Explore the anime and otaku culture in Akihabara or visit the iconic Tokyo Tower. For dinner, experience a chanko nabe hot pot in Ryogoku, where sumo wrestlers train.

  • Day 2: Harajuku and Shibuya
    Estimated travel time from last location: 35 minutes

    Get ready to explore one of Tokyo's most vibrant neighbourhoods, Harajuku. Check out the kawaii-themed stores and cafes or take a stroll in Yoyogi Park. Next, head over to the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world, Shibuya Crossing. Don't forget to snap a photo with the Hachiko statue!

  • Day 3: Asakusa and Ueno
    Estimated travel time from last location: 30 minutes

    Take a step back in time in Asakusa by visiting the Senso-ji temple and browsing through the traditional shops on Nakamise-dori. Afterwards, head to Ueno park to visit one of the largest museums in Japan, the Tokyo National Museum.

  • Day 4: Studio Ghibli and Shinjuku
    Estimated travel time from last location: 30 minutes

    If you're a fan of Studio Ghibli, don't miss the chance to visit the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka. Afterwards, head over to Shinjuku for some shopping or experience the vibrant nightlife of the Golden Gai area.

  • Day 5: Travel to Osaka
    Estimated travel time from last location: 2 hours 30 minutes

    Take a scenic train ride from Tokyo to Osaka, where you'll find delectable street food and historical landmarks like Osaka Castle.

  • Day 6: Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi
    Estimated travel time from last location: 35 minutes

    Experience the vibrant energy of Osaka's entertainment district, Dotonbori. Sample delicious street food like takoyaki and finish with dessert from one of the many matcha cafes. Afterwards, head over to Shinsaibashi for some shopping.

  • Day 7: Osaka Castle and Umeda Sky Building
    Estimated travel time from last location: 30 minutes

    Start your day with a visit to Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most famous castles. Next, head over to the Umeda Sky Building for a stunning panoramic view of the city.

  • Day 8: Nara Day Trip
    Estimated travel time from last location: 1 hour

    Take a day trip to Nara, a picturesque city known for its friendly deer and stunning temples. Don't miss the Todai-ji temple and its impressive Great Buddha statue.

  • Day 9: Travel to Kyoto
    Estimated travel time from last location: 1 hour

    Take a train from Osaka to Kyoto, Japan's former capital city. Appreciate the serene beauty of the Kinkaku-ji temple or take a stroll in the picturesque Arashiyama bamboo forest.

  • Day 10: Gion and Higashiyama
    Estimated travel time from last location: 20 minutes

    Take a cultural walk in the Gion and Higashiyama neighbourhoods, where you can appreciate traditional Japanese architecture and maybe even spot a geisha or maiko. Catch a Kabuki show at the Minamiza theatre or visit the Yasaka Shrine.

  • Day 11: Fushimi Inari and Philosopher's Path
    Estimated travel time from last location: 30 minutes

    Start your day by checking out the stunning orange torii gates at the Fushimi Inari Shrine. Afterwards, head to the Philosopher's Path for a peaceful walk along the cherry blossom-lined canal.

  • Day 12: Kyoto Imperial Palace and Nishiki Market
    Estimated travel time from last location: 30 minutes

    Get a glimpse of Japan's imperial past by visiting the Kyoto Imperial Palace. For lunch, head over to the Nishiki Market to sample some unique snacks like grilled mochi or fried arrows.

  • Day 13: Arashiyama and Kiyomizu-dera
    Estimated travel time from last location: 30 minutes

    Take a morning stroll in the tranquil Arashiyama bamboo forest before heading over to the stunning Kiyomizu-dera temple. Be sure to capture a photo at the iconic stage!

  • Day 14: Departure from Kyoto
    Estimated travel time from airport: 1 hour 30 minutes

    Head home with unforgettable memories from your honeymoon in Japan.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Ghibli Museum (3 hours, JPY2000)
  • Osaka Castle (2 hours, JPY600)
  • Umeda Sky Building (1.5 hours, JPY1000)
  • Todai-ji temple (2 hours, JPY800)
  • Kabuki show (4 hours, JPY10000)
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine (2.5 hours, free)
  • Kyoto Imperial Palace (1.5 hours, free)
  • Kiyomizu-dera temple (2 hours, JPY400)
  • Total Estimated Costs: JPY14000

Transportation

During your 14-day honeymoon in Japan, transportation costs will vary depending on your itinerary. We recommend purchasing a Japan Rail Pass, which allows for unlimited travel on most trains in the country, including the shinkansen (bullet train). The 14-day pass costs JPY47,200 per person. Additionally, Tokyo and Osaka have well-connected subway systems, with fares starting at JPY200. Taxis are also available, but can be expensive.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to Hiroshima to visit the sobering but important Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Alternatively, if you have less time, consider cutting out a day in Osaka or Kyoto. Don't be afraid to get lost in Tokyo's neighbourhoods - you never know what hidden gems you might find!

Airports

Narita International Airport (NRT) is Tokyo's main airport, located approximately 60km east of the city center. The airport offers various transportation options, including the Narita Express train, limousine bus, and taxi. Kansai International Airport (KIX) is Osaka's main airport, located approximately 50km southwest of the city center. The airport offers various transportation options, including the Haruka Express train, limousine bus, and taxi. Kyoto does not have its own airport, but is easily accessible via train from either Osaka or Tokyo.

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