Discovering Tokyo, Nara, and Kyoto in 15 Days

  • Day 1: Tokyo Arrival
    Narita International Airport to Tokyo Station

    Begin your Japan adventure by arriving at Narita International Airport and getting transportation to the bustling city of Tokyo. Once you get to Tokyo Station, check-in at your hotel and relax, or go on a leisurely stroll around the neighbourhood.

  • Day 2: Exploring Tokyo
    From Tokyo Station to Asakusa

    Today, immerse yourself in Tokyo's culture by visiting Asakusa, home of the iconic Sensō-ji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street. Take a leisurely walk down the Sumida River and witness the hustle and bustle of Tokyo City from the Tokyo Skytree.

  • Day 3: Tokyo's Central Attractions
    From Tokyo Station to Roppongi

    Spend your day exploring some central Tokyo attractions! Head to the Tokyo Tower for breathtaking city views. Walk to the Meiji Jingu Shrine in Shibuya and bask in its serene atmosphere. Finally, stop at Roppongi Hills to enjoy more fabulous views and stunning architecture.

  • Day 4: Day Trip to Kamakura
    From Tokyo Station to Kamakura

    Take a day trip to Kamakura, a charming seaside town an hour's train ride south of Tokyo. Walking through the city, visit the Great Buddha and the Hasedera Temple, where you'll take in gorgeous views of the ocean.

  • Day 5: Morning at the Tsukiji Fish Market, Afternoon in Akihabara
    From Tokyo Station to Tsukiji Market to Akihabara

    Start the day early with a sushi breakfast at the Tsukiji Fish Market. Next, head to Akihabara to explore Tokyo's anime, manga, and electronics districts. You can also stop at the Ghibli Museum and view anime exhibits, which requires pre-purchased tickets.

  • Day 6: Enchanted by the Magic of Disney
    From Tokyo Station to Disneyland

    Take a break from urban life and go on magical adventures at Tokyo Disneyland. Explore seven themed areas and over 40 attractions, including crowd favourites like Pirates of the Caribbean and It's a Small World! Don't forget to enjoy the parade and fireworks shows.

  • Day 7: Going to the Forest and the Deer Park of Nara
    From Tokyo Station to Nara Station

    Take a break from Tokyo and travel to Nara, home to sacred temples, shrines, and the world-famous Nara Park, where you can interact freely with tame deer. Visit the awe-inspiring Todai-ji Temple, the largest wooden building in the world, to learn about Nara's rich history during the Japanese ancient periods!

  • Day 8: Kyoto's most impressive attractions
    From Nara Station to Kyoto Station

    Spend your day admiring the beautiful city of Kyoto. Take a morning visit to the golden-shingled Kinkaku-ji and the flaming orange Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine! In the late afternoon, check out Gion, Kyoto's most famous geisha district.

  • Day 9: More of Kyoto and Nara Parks
    From Kyoto Station to Arashiyama and Nara Park

    Embark on a beautiful journey to Arashiyama, admiring the colourful leaves in the famous Bamboo Forest, enjoying views of the beautiful city and wandering along the picturesque riverbank. In the afternoon, return to Nara Park and visit The Kasuga-taisha shrine.

  • Day 10: Himeji Castle and Kobe beef
    From Kyoto Station to Himeji and Kobe

    Travel to Himeji Castle, the 'White Heron', and one of Japan's most famous castles! After admiring the castle and gardens, head to Kobe for some mouthwatering beef. In the evening, go on a romantic stroll along the waterfront and soak in the sparkling lights!

  • Day 11: Best of Osaka
    From Kyoto Station to Osaka Castle, Dotonbori and Shinsekai

    Spend your day seeing some of the best sights Osaka has to offer! First, visit Osaka Castle, then head over to the bustling and iconic Dotonbori food street for lunch. finally, either walk or take a train to visit the neon-lit Shinsekai district known for its retro buildings and vibrant life!

  • Day 12: Discovering Hiroshima
    From Osaka Station to Hiroshima Station

    Travel to Hiroshima to witness its moving history and resilience! Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in the morning and walk down its many peaceful gardens. Then, shop along the bustling streets of downtown Hiroshima, a modern commercial district with a variety of stylish stores and restaurants.

  • Day 13: Miyajima Island
    From Hiroshima Station to Miyajima Island

    Travel to the breathtaking Miyajima Island, one of the most scenic spots in Japan! Walk to the most famous attraction on the island, the Itsukushima Shrine, and view the stunning torii gates that gently rise from the sea. Finally, visit the striking Miyajima Aquarium, and enjoy the diverse water systems!

  • Day 14: Back to Tokyo
    From Miyajima Island to Tokyo Station

    Head back to Tokyo from Miyajima Island and spend the day exploring any nearby sites that residents or locals recommended. Say goodbye to Japan by visiting Shibuya Crossing, one of the world's busiest intersections. If you have time and get hungry or thirsty, visit the bars and restaurants located in Golden Gai.

  • Day 15: Departure
    From Tokyo Hotel to Narita International Airport

    Depart from Tokyo with unforgettable memories! If you have time before your flight, shop at Ginza and buy souvenirs for your loved ones or enjoy a luxurious meal at one of the city's fine dining establishments. Afterward, head to Narita International Airport and board your flight back home.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Asakusa (2-4 hours, free)
  • Tokyo Skytree (1-2 hours, 3000 yen)
  • Tokyo Tower (1-2 hours, 2800 yen)
  • Meiji Jingu Shrine (~1 hour, free)
  • Roppongi Hills (1-2 hours, free)
  • Kamakura (6-8 hours, 1000-3000 yen)
  • Tsukiji Fish Market (1-2 hours, free) - most of the sushi restaurants in the market are mentioned at mid-range or luxury-range
  • Akihabara (2-4 hours, free)
  • Tokyo Disneyland (1-2 days, 7400 yen)
  • Nara Park (2-4 hours, free)
  • Kyoto temples (3-5 hours, 1500 yen- 3000 yen)
  • Arashiyama and Nara Park (4-6 hours, free)
  • Himeji Castle and Kobe (6-8 hours, 1000-3000 yen)
  • Osaka Castle, Dotonbori and Shinsekai (6-8 hours, free)
  • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park (2-4 hours, free)
  • Miyajima Island (4-6 hours, 550 yen ferry ticket)
  • Golden Gai (2-4 hours, prices vary)
  • Ginza (2-4 hours, prices vary)
  • Total Estimated Costs (without flights): ~ 400 USD

Transportation

Consider getting a Japan Rail Pass to travel with ease between all these destinations. However, for some local destinations, you might have to purchase separate tickets.

Most of the listed destinations have, metro or train stops nearby, but for some destinations or routes, buses, airplanes, or taxis may be more convenient.

Check Google Maps or Japan's transportation system for time and pricing estimations.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, try exploring northern regions of Japan,"Tohoku" (Aomori, Akita, Yamagata, etc.) or southern regions"Kyushu"(Beppu, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, etc.). These places will offer you a more country atmosphere and unique experience.

If you have less time, consider cutting out some destinations, shortening the day trip or looking at the essentials in each area instead of spending entire days there.

Airports

Japan's busiest airport is Narita International Airport (NRT), located in the town of Narita, about 60 km (37 mi) east of central Tokyo. An alternative airport is Haneda International Airport (HND), located closer to central Tokyo, providing several domestic flights and routes to other countries. It takes about 90 minutes to reach Narita airport from Tokyo and 30 minutes from Haneda airport by public transportation.

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