14-Day Adventure and Cultural Immersion in Japan on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

9:00AM

Explore Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple

Start your Japan adventure at the famous Senso-ji Temple, where you can soak in the rich culture and history.
Take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line to Asakusa Station.
JPY 200, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gotokuji Ramen

Enjoy a delicious bowl of Tonkotsu Ramen at this local gem famous among locals.
Walk 15 minutes from Senso-ji.
JPY 800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Stroll through Ueno Park

Take a leisurely walk in Ueno Park, filled with museums, a zoo, and cherry blossom trees.
Take the train from Asakusa to Ueno Station.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Street Food at Ameyoko Market

Experience local street food at this vibrant market, try Takoyaki and Taiyaki.
5 minutes' walk from Ueno Park.
JPY 1,000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Tensuke

Savor some delicious Tempura at this local diner, known for its crispy fry.
Take the Yamanote Line to Ikebukuro.
JPY 1,500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Tokyo Culture & Nightlife

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Try fresh sushi at the lively market - it's a treat for both your taste buds and the eyes.
Take the train to Tsukiji Station.
JPY 1,200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Meiji Shrine

Explore this beautiful Shinto Shrine located in a serene forest area right in the heart of Tokyo.
Walk from the nearest station, Harajuku.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Harajuku Crepes

Treat yourself to colorful and mouth-watering crepes at this trendy area.
Walk to Takeshita Street.
JPY 700, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Akihabara

Dive into the world of manga, anime, and electronic gadgets in the otaku district.
Take the Yamanote Line to Akihabara Station.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue

Witness the iconic Shibuya Crossing and visit the statue of the loyal Hachiko dog.
Take the train to Shibuya Station.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ichiran Ramen

Savor the unique experience of dining solo with a delicious bowl of ramen.
Walk 10 minutes from Shibuya.
JPY 900, 1 hour

8:00PM

Nightlife in Shinjuku

Explore the vibrant nightlife in Shinjuku, with its many bars and entertainment venues.
Take the train to Shinjuku Station.
Free (Excl. drinks), 3 hours
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Day 3: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before your adventure.
Breakfast included.
Free, 1 hour

8:30AM

Train to Nikko

Enjoy the scenic train ride to explore Nikko's breathtaking landscape.
Take the JR Tohoku Line to Utsunomiya, then transfer to the Nikko Line.
JPY 3,000, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site and meditation on its beautiful carvings and architecture.
Walk from Nikko Station.
JPY 1,300, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Soba Restaurant

Savor fresh buckwheat soba noodles while taking in the scenic surroundings.
Nearby the shrine.
JPY 1,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Lake Chuzenji

Take in the natural beauty of the lake and consider a short hike for stunning views.
Take the bus from Toshogu Shrine.
JPY 1,000, 3 hours

4:30PM

Visit Kegon Falls

Marvel at one of Japan's most beautiful waterfalls, close to Lake Chuzenji.
Bus from Lake Chuzenji.
JPY 570, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Enjoy grilled fish and local dishes in a homely atmosphere before heading back.
Near Nikko station before returning to Tokyo.
JPY 1,500, 1 hour

7:30PM

Train Back to Tokyo

Relax as you reminisce about the day's beauty on your return journey.
Train to Utsunomiya, then transfer to JR Tohoku Line.
JPY 3,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Travel to Sendai

Sendai, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with a traditional Japanese breakfast to start your day.
Breakfast included.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Sendai

Transfer to Sendai with the Shinkansen, enjoying stunning scenery on the way.
JR Yamamoto line from Tokyo Station.
JPY 10,000, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Sendai Castle Ruins

Visit the historical castle ruins and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.
Take the bus from Sendai Station.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gyutan Yaki (Beef Tongue)

Indulge in Sendai's specialty of grilled beef tongue at a local restaurant.
Take the bus back to the city center.
JPY 1,200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Zuihoden Mausoleum

Explore the ornate mausoleum of Date Masamune, a prominent 17th-century samurai lord.
Take the bus from the lunch spot.
JPY 550, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Sendai Mediatheque

Take a break at this architectural wonder where you can enjoy art and culture.
Walk from Zuihoden.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Sendai Kozo

Sample local cuisine at this quaint eatery, notably the vegetarian options.
Take the subway to the area.
JPY 1,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Day Trip to Matsushima

Matsushima, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy breakfast to energize for the day's adventures.
Breakfast included.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Matsushima

Travel comfortably to Matsushima, known for its stunning bay views.
Take the JR Senseki Line from Sendai.
JPY 600, 40 minutes

10:00AM

Explore Matsushima Bay

Take a scenic boat cruise through Matsushima Bay, admiring the picturesque islands.
Purchase tickets at the port.
JPY 1,500, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Matsushima Seafood Restaurant

Delight in fresh seafood, including oysters, in this coastal restaurant.
Walking distance from the port.
JPY 2,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Zuiganji Temple

Explore this temple that showcases stunning architecture and serene gardens.
15-minute walk from lunch.
JPY 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Fukuurajima

Take a stroll on this island, famous for its scenic views and sacred spots.
Use the bridge from Matsushima.
JPY 300, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Enjoy a laid-back dinner featuring local Matsushima cuisine.
Nearby the train station.
JPY 1,200, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Return to Sendai

Head back to Sendai to relax after a delightful day.
Take the train back.
JPY 600, 40 minutes
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Travel to Takayama

Takayama, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a traditional breakfast before heading to beautiful Takayama.
Breakfast included.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Takayama

Travel through scenic mountains on the way to Takayama.
Take the JR limited express train from Sendai.
JPY 8,000, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a Local Hida Beef Restaurant

Indulge in Takayama’s famous Hida beef at a small, cozy restaurant.
Nearby Takayama Station.
JPY 2,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Old Town District

Wander the beautifully preserved historic streets of Takayama.
Walk from lunch spot.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Hida Folk Village

Explore this open-air museum showcasing traditional farmhouses and culture.
Take a bus from downtown.
JPY 700, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Experience a cozy dinner featuring local Takayama dishes and sake.
Take bus back to Takayama town.
JPY 1,500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Visit Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before heading out to the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Breakfast included.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bus to Shirakawa-go

Travel to the charming village famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
Catch a bus from Takayama.
JPY 2,500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Shirakawa-go

Wander through the scenic village, taking in the breathtaking views and landscapes.
Walking around the village.
Free, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Savor local cuisine featuring rice and seasonal vegetables.
At a village restaurant.
JPY 1,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Folk Museum

Learn about the history of Shirakawa-go and its unique traditional culture.
Walking distance in the village.
JPY 300, 1 hour

4:30PM

Return to Takayama

Take a bus back to Takayama, reflecting on the picturesque scenery.
Catch the bus to Takayama.
JPY 2,500, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at a Takayama Izakaya

Wrap up the day with a casual dinner at an izakaya, enjoying local flavors.
Within Takayama.
JPY 1,200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Travel to Kanazawa

Kanazawa, Japan

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up for an exciting day in Kanazawa.
Breakfast included.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Kanazawa

Enjoy a comfortable ride through the Japanese countryside.
Take the train from Takayama.
JPY 7,000, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Omicho Market

Savor fresh sushi and assorted seafood at this lively market.
Walk from Kanazawa Station.
JPY 1,800, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit Kenroku-en Garden

Stroll through one of Japan's top three gardens, famous for its beauty in all seasons.
Nearby the market.
JPY 310, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art

Experience modern art and unique architecture in this iconic museum.
Take a short bus ride.
JPY 1,000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at a Traditional Tea House

Indulge in kaiseki dinner, a multi-course Japanese meal featuring beautiful presentations.
Nearby the museum.
JPY 3,500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Cultural Immersion in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast to kickstart your Kyoto exploration.
Breakfast included.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Kyoto

Travel to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, by train from Kanazawa.
Take the Hakutaka Shinkansen.
JPY 5,000, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample local street food specialties at this bustling food market, including Yudofu (tofu hot pot).
Walk from Kyoto Station.
JPY 1,000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Admire the stunning Golden Pavilion, a true symbol of Japanese artistry and architecture.
Take a bus or taxi from the market.
JPY 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the enchanted bamboo forest - a picturesque and serene experience.
Take a train to Arashiyama.
JPY 600, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at a Traditional Ryokan

Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at this historic inn to experience cultural dining.
Backtrack to your accommodation.
JPY 4,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Day Trip to Nara

Nara, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Ryokan

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at the ryokan.
Breakfast included.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Nara

Catch a short train ride to Nara, Japan's first capital.
Take the JR Nara Line.
JPY 600, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Be amazed at the gigantic Great Buddha statue and the vast grounds of the complex.
Walk from Nara Station.
JPY 600, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Naramachi Street

Try famous Kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves) at a local eatery.
10-minute walk from the temple.
JPY 1,500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Nara Park

Walk among friendly free-roaming deer in the beautiful park surrounding the temple.
Walk from lunch spot.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Kasuga-taisha Shrine

View the stunning lanterns and the shrine's beautiful architecture nestled in the forest.
Walk through Nara Park.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Enjoy an authentic dining experience with seasonal local dishes.
Back to Nara town center.
JPY 1,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Explore Osaka

Osaka, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Ryokan

Have breakfast before heading out to Osaka.
Breakfast included.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Osaka

Travel from Kyoto to Osaka via JR line, which takes approximately 30 minutes.
Take the JR Special Rapid service.
JPY 560, 30 minutes

10:30AM

Explore Osaka Castle

Visit the impressive castle and learn about its history while enjoying the surrounding park.
Take subway from the station.
JPY 600, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Savor delicious street food specialties like Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki.
Walk to Dotonbori.
JPY 1,500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Kuromon Ichiba Market

Immerse yourself in local life, tasting fresh seafood, fruits, and snacks at this lively market.
Short walk from Dotonbori.
Free (Snacks extra), 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Shitenno-ji Temple

Admire one of Japan's oldest temples and its tranquil gardens.
Take the subway.
JPY 300, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Enjoy local izakaya culture and experience a variety of small dishes.
Nearby the temple.
JPY 1,200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Travel to Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before your journey to Hiroshima.
Breakfast included.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Hiroshima

Travel to Hiroshima in under 2 hours with Shinkansen.
Take the Nozomi Shinkansen.
JPY 10,000, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Okonomi-mura

Savor Hiroshima's specialty Okonomiyaki at this famous okonomiyaki village.
Short walk from the station.
JPY 1,200, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Reflect on history as you explore the museum and memorials in this serene park.
Walking distance from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Atomic Bomb Dome

See the iconic landmark, a somber reminder of the past.
Walk around the park.
Free, 30 minutes

4:30PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a warm meal of fresh seafood or local dishes at a cozy restaurant.
Nearby the park.
JPY 1,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Day Trip to Miyajima

Miyajima, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast.
Breakfast included.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ferry to Miyajima

Take a scenic ferry ride to the island known for Itsukushima Shrine.
Catch a ferry from Hiroshima port.
JPY 1,900, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Itsukushima Shrine

Explore the iconic shrine that appears to float on water during high tide.
Walk from the ferry terminal.
JPY 300, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Oyster Shack

Try the famous Miyajima oysters while overlooking the beautiful bay.
Nearby the shrine.
JPY 2,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Climb Mount Misen

Take a hike with stunning views from the top - it’s a memorable experience.
Follow the trail from the shrine.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Wrap up the day with delicious local seafood and dishes.
Ferry back to Hiroshima for dinner.
JPY 1,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Return to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy breakfast and prepare for your last day in Japan.
Breakfast included.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train back to Tokyo

Take the Shinkansen back to Tokyo and enjoy beautiful countryside views.
Take JR from Hiroshima Station.
JPY 10,000, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Shopping at Akihabara

Last-minute shopping in Akihabara for unique souvenirs and electronics.
Walk from the station.
Free (Excl. shopping cost), 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at a Themed Cafe

Experience a unique themed cafe, like a cat or maid cafe, for a fun last meal.
Nearby at Akihabara.
JPY 1,500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Tokyo Tower

Get a panoramic view of Tokyo from this iconic structure.
Take the Metro from Akihabara.
JPY 1,200, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a Local Sushi Restaurant

End your Japan adventure with a final sushi feast at a local restaurant.
Back in your area.
JPY 3,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability