12-Day Japan Adventure: Anime, Ryokan, Sake, and Serenity

Day 1: Tokyo Arrival

Tokyo, Japan

10:00AM

Arrival in Tokyo

After landing, make your way to your hotel to freshen up before diving into the city's vibrant culture.
Take the Narita Express or Haneda Airport Limousine Bus to Tokyo.
JPY3500, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Tonkatsu Maisen Aoyama Honten

Indulge in crispy, tender tonkatsu, a true Japanese comfort food.
Walk or take a short taxi ride from your hotel.
JPY1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Akihabara

Explore the anime and electronics district filled with shops offering the latest in anime goods!
Take the JR Yamanote Line to Akihabara Station.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at a Maid Café

Experience Japanese pop culture by enjoying tea served by maids in themed attire.
Walk to a nearby maid café.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ichiran Ramen

Savor a rich bowl of tonkotsu ramen in an iconic solo dining booth.
Take the subway to Shibuya.
JPY1200, 1 hour
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Day 2: Anime and Parks

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Start your day with fresh sushi at one of the outer market restaurants.
Take the subway to Tsukiji Station.
JPY2500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Studio Ghibli Museum

Immerse yourself in the magical world of Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro.
Take the train from Shinjuku to Mitaka.
JPY1000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Suginoko

Enjoy a meal at this cozy eatery known for its delicious soba noodles.
Short walk from the museum.
JPY1200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Ueno Park

Stroll through this beautiful park and check out its museums and zoo.
Take the train back to Ueno Station.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Harajuku

Experience the youth culture capital of Japan with trendy shops and street fashion.
Take the Yamanote Line to Harajuku.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Genki Sushi

Enjoy unique conveyor belt sushi while you watch the prepared food zoom by.
Walk from Harajuku back to Shibuya.
JPY2000, 1 hour
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Day 3: Tokyo to Hakone

Hakone, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Beard Papa

Treat yourself to delicious cream puffs before heading out.
Walk to the nearby station.
JPY800, 1 hour

10:15AM

Travel to Hakone

Head to Hakone by train to enjoy the natural hot springs and beautiful scenery.
Take the Odakyu Line to Hakone Yumoto Station.
JPY2000, 1 hour

11:30AM

Check In at Ryokan

Arrive and check into a traditional ryokan, where you'll experience Japanese hospitality.
Follow the signs from the station.
JPY15000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Ryokan

Savor a traditional kaiseki lunch served in your room.
Provided by the ryokan.
Included, 1 hour

2:30PM

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Marvel at stunning sculptures and outdoor art in this unique museum.
Take a local bus from the ryokan.
JPY1600, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax in Onsen

Unwind in the rejuvenating hot springs at your ryokan.
Return to the ryokan.
Included, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ryokan

Experience another traditional meal, focusing on local ingredients.
Provided by the ryokan.
Included, 1 hour
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Day 4: Hakone to Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ryokan

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast before checking out.
Provided by the ryokan.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Kyoto

Board the Shinkansen to Kyoto to experience the historical beauty of the city.
Take the train from Hakone Yumoto to Odawara and transfer to the Shinkansen.
JPY6000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Check In at Hotel

Settle into your hotel and relax before heading out to explore.
Local transportation from Kyoto Station to your hotel.
JPY1000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Taste local street food in this bustling food market.
Walk to Nishiki Market.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore this stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf.
Take a bus from the market to Kinkaku-ji.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Stroll through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk amidst towering bamboo stalks for a tranquil experience.
Take a train to Arashiyama.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Kibune Hōrai

Enjoy a seasonal kaiseki dinner in the picturesque Kibune area.
Return to Kyoto center and take a train.
JPY8000, 2 hours
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Day 5: Kyoto Sightseeing

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel.
Provided by the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Wander through thousands of vermillion torii gates leading up the mountain.
Take the train to Inari Station.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Okonomiyaki Katsu

Try delicious okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake.
Head back to Kyoto center.
JPY1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Admire the wooden stage that affords stunning views of the city.
Take a local bus from the restaurant.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Gion District

Wander through this historic geisha district full of charm.
Walk from Kiyomizu-dera to Gion.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine at one of the many restaurants lit by lanterns along the river.
Just off Gion, it's a short walk away.
JPY5000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Sake Tasting Experience

Enjoy a local sake tasting session to discover different flavors.
Reservations recommended, nearby.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Kyoto to Osaka

Osaka, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a delicious Western or Japanese breakfast.
Provided by the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Osaka

Take a quick train ride to Osaka, known for its modern architecture.
Take the JR Special Rapid Service.
JPY800, 30 minutes

10:30AM

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore this iconic castle and its surrounding gardens.
Take the subway to Osakajokoen Station.
JPY600, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Try infamous street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki in this vibrant area.
Take the subway to Namba Station.
JPY2000, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Universal Studios Japan

Enjoy thrilling rides and attractions based on your favorite movies.
Take the subway to Universal City Station.
JPY8000, 5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Universal Citywalk

Unwind with a meal at one of the restaurants outside the park.
Right outside the park entrance.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Day Trip to Nara

Nara, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fill up on breakfast before heading out on your day trip.
Provided by the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Nara

Take the Kintetsu Line to explore the beautiful temples and parks.
Take the train from Osaka Station.
JPY800, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Marvel at the Great Buddha statue located within this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Short walk from Nara Park.
JPY600, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch in Nara Park

Picnic lunch surrounded by friendly deer roaming in the park.
Grab food from a nearby convenience store.
JPY1000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Nara Park

Spend the afternoon enjoying the serene atmosphere and friendly deer.
Free to wander.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Kasuga-taisha Shrine

Explore this beautiful Shinto shrine famous for its stone lanterns.
A short walk from Nara Park.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner in Nara

Dine at a local restaurant to cap off your lovely day in Nara.
Explore the restaurant options nearby.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Return to Osaka

Head back to your hotel in Osaka for a restful night.
Take the train back.
JPY800, 1 hour
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Day 8: Osaka to Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

A lovely breakfast to start your travel day.
Provided by the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Travel to Hiroshima

Catch the Shinkansen to Hiroshima to learn more about its history.
Buy a ticket at the Shinkansen platform.
JPY15000, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Check In at Hotel

Relax and prepare for an afternoon of exploration.
Short walk from Hiroshima Station.
JPY1000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Okonomimura

Enjoy Hiroshima's famous okonomiyaki a few stories high in this food building.
Take the streetcar from your hotel.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Visit this moving park dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb.
Short walk from Okonomimura.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Explore exhibits that recount the experiences of those who lived through this tragic event.
Close to the park and easy to walk to.
JPY200, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Nagataya

Try another style of okonomiyaki at this well-regarded restaurant.
Walk from the museum.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Hiroshima to Miyajima Island

Miyajima, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before a day trip to Miyajima.
Provided by the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Travel to Miyajima

Catch the ferry to Miyajima Island and see the iconic floating torii gate.
Walk to the ferry terminal.
JPY1800, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Itsukushima Shrine

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture.
Follow signs from the ferry terminal.
JPY300, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at the Island

Indulge in fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
Near the shrine.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Hike up Mount Misen

Take on a rewarding hike with breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Start from the trailhead on the island.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Return to Hiroshima

Catch the ferry back to Hiroshima for the evening.
Same as the outbound journey.
JPY1800, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Kushimura

End your day with fair prices and hearty meals at this local eatery.
Walk from the ferry terminal.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Hiroshima to Kanazawa

Kanazawa, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fill up on breakfast before traveling to Kanazawa.
Provided by the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Travel to Kanazawa

Catch the Shinkansen to Kanazawa, a city renowned for its arts and crafts.
Purchase a ticket at the Shinkansen platform.
JPY15000, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Check In at Hotel

Relax and freshen up before touring the city.
Short walk from Kanazawa Station.
JPY1000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lunch at Omicho Market

Savor fresh seafood or local delicacies amidst a lively market atmosphere.
Walk to the market from your hotel.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Kenroku-en Garden

Enjoy one of Japan's top three gardens known for its beauty in every season.
Short walk from Omicho Market.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Explore Higashi Chaya District

Wander through historic teahouses and art galleries.
Walk from Kenroku-en.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Kaga Cuisine Restaurant

Indulge in local Kaga cuisine at a highly-rated restaurant.
Short taxi ride or walk.
JPY5000, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Kanazawa to Takayama

Takayama, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
Provided by the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Takayama

Catch a bus to Takayama to enjoy its picturesque old town.
Book a ticket at the bus terminal.
JPY4000, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Check In at Ryokan

Arrive at your ryokan for another immersive experience.
Take a local taxi from the bus stop.
JPY1000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Himura

Savour one of Takayama’s famous Hida beef dishes.
Walk from the ryokan.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Takayama Old Town

Wander through beautiful streets lined with traditional wooden houses.
Start your walk from the ryokan.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sakakabe

Enjoy a hearty meal featuring local Takayama cuisine.
Check for recommendations near the old town.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Onsen at Ryokan

Relax in the onsen for a perfect end to your day.
Back at the ryokan.
Included, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Return to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ryokan

Enjoy a wonderful breakfast before your final day of adventures.
Provided by the ryokan.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel back to Tokyo

Catch a bus back to Kanazawa and take the Shinkansen to Tokyo.
Book a ticket at the bus terminal and then at the Shinkansen platform.
JPY15000, 3.5 hours

1:00PM

Check In at Hotel

Settle in your hotel before enjoying the last day.
Arrive at your hotel in Tokyo.
JPY1000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lunch at Nakano Broadway

Explore stores filled with collectibles and have a hearty lunch at one of the themed cafes.
Train to Nakano.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Leisurely Afternoon at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Relax in the serene gardens amidst the bustling city.
Train to Shinjuku.
JPY500, 2 hours

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Narisawa

Celebrate your journey with a final gourmet meal at one of Tokyo's top restaurants, known for its innovative dishes.
Train to Minato.
JPY28000, 2.5 hours
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