Two Weeks in Japan: Cultural Immersion in Tokyo and Kyoto with Day Trips

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

10:00AM

Check-In at Hotel

Arrive at your hotel in Shinjuku for an exciting start to your journey in the bustling city of Tokyo.
Take the Narita Express train from Narita Airport to Shinjuku Station.
JPY 3000, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Tsukiji Outer Market

Enjoy fresh sushi and street food at the famous Tsukiji Outer Market, sampling some of the best seafood in Japan.
Take the subway from Shinjuku to Tsukiji Station.
JPY 2000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Ginza

Stroll through Ginza's chic shopping district, visiting boutique stores and high-end brands.
Walk from Tsukiji to Ginza.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ichiran Ramen

Savor a unique dining experience at Ichiran Ramen, known for its delicious tonkotsu broth and solo dining booths.
Take the subway from Ginza to Shinjuku.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

7:00PM

Explore Shinjuku

End your day with a walking tour of the vibrant and neon-lit district of Shinjuku, including the famous Robot Restaurant.
Walking distance from your hotel.
JPY 8000 (optional), 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cultural Day in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at A Happy Pancake

Indulge in fluffy pancakes topped with maple syrup at this popular breakfast spot.
Walking distance from your hotel.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Witness the beauty of Tokyo's oldest temple, Senso-ji, located in Asakusa, and explore Nakamise Street for souvenirs.
Take the subway from Shinjuku to Asakusa.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Asakusa Imahan

Experience a traditional Japanese lunch featuring high-quality wagyu beef and sukiyaki.
Walking distance.
JPY 5000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Ueno Park and Museums

Wander through Ueno Park and visit the Tokyo National Museum to dive into Japan's rich history.
Take the subway from Asakusa to Ueno.
JPY 600 (museum entry), 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Yakiniku Jumbo

Savor grilled meat delicacies at Yakiniku Jumbo, famous for its premium cuts.
Take the subway from Ueno to Ikebukuro.
JPY 4000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Stroll at Shibuya

Experience the iconic Shibuya Crossing and explore local shops as the city lights up.
Take the subway from Ikebukuro to Shibuya.
Free, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan

6:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for your adventure with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading to Nikko.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

7:00AM

Travel to Nikko

Catch an early train to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its beautiful temples and natural scenery.
Take the limited express from Shinjuku to Nikko.
JPY 4000 (round trip), 2 hours

9:00AM

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore the ornate Toshogu Shrine, the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate.
Bus from the train station.
JPY 1300, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nikko Yuba Teuchi Soba

Enjoy a delicious soba meal with local yuba (tofu skin) at this traditional eatery.
Walking distance from Toshogu Shrine.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

See Kegon Falls

Marvel at the breathtaking Kegon Falls, one of Japan's most famous waterfalls, situated in the beautiful national park.
Take a bus from Nikko city center.
JPY 550 (bus fare), 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to Tokyo

Head back to Tokyo, reflecting on the day filled with incredible sights.
Take the limited express train back.
Included, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Dine at the renowned Gonpachi, famous for its appearance in Kill Bill, savoring flavorful izakaya dishes.
Near your hotel.
JPY 4500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Tokyo Museums and Gardens

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Eggs 'n Things

Treat yourself to a variety of egg dishes at this popular brunch spot, known for fluffy pancakes.
Walking distance from your hotel.
JPY 1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Meiji Shrine

Discover tranquility in the heart of Tokyo at Meiji Shrine, surrounded by beautiful forest.
Take the subway from Shinjuku to Harajuku.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Harajuku & Takeshita Street

Immerse yourself in the colorful youth culture of Harajuku, stopping at quirky shops along Takeshita Street.
Walking distance from Meiji Shrine.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kawaii Monster Cafe

Experience the whimsical atmosphere of Kawaii Monster Cafe while enjoying sweets and light meals.
Walking distance.
JPY 3000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Tokyo National Museum of Nature and Science

Explore the fascinating exhibits highlighting Japan's natural history from dinosaurs to space.
Take the subway from Harajuku to Ueno.
JPY 600, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Katsuya for Tonkatsu

Indulge in delicious tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet) at Katsuya, a beloved chain spot in Japan.
Subway to near Ueno Park.
JPY 1000, 1 hour

8:00PM

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Relax in the serene Shinjuku Gyoen park, a perfect spot for evening strolls.
Short subway ride from Ueno.
JPY 500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Art and Culture in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at The City Bakery

Enjoy freshly baked pastries and coffee at this cozy bakery famous for its morning treats.
Walking distance from your hotel.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

TeamLab Borderless

Experience the innovative art installations at TeamLab Borderless, a digital art museum that extends your imagination.
Take the subway from Shinjuku to Odaiba.
JPY 3200, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza

Choose from a variety of food options, including ramen, sushi, and Western dishes within this entertainment complex.
Walking distance from TeamLab.
JPY 2000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Tokyo Skytree

Ascend to the observation deck of Tokyo Skytree for stunning panoramic views of the bustling city below.
Take the subway to Tokyo Skytree.
JPY 2000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Asakusa Culture and Tourist Information Center

Discover the rich culture and various resources available for tourists at the Asakusa Center.
Return on subway to Asakusa.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at SUSHI Zanmai

Dive into a delectable variety of sushi at SUSHI Zanmai, a well-known sushi chain in Japan.
Walking distance from Asakusa.
JPY 3000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Karaoke Night

Experience a night of fun singing along to your favorite hits at a local karaoke bar.
Walking distance from Asakusa.
JPY 2500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Day Trip to Hakone

Hakone, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have an early breakfast at your hotel to prepare for your day trip ahead.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Hakone

Head to Hakone, renowned for its scenic views of Mount Fuji and hot springs.
Take the Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto.
JPY 4000, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum

Explore the stunning outdoor contemporary art museum set amidst beautiful landscapes.
Catch a bus from Hakone-Yumoto to the museum.
JPY 1600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Hakone Open-Air Museum Café

Enjoy light meals and coffee at the café within the open-air museum, surrounded by art.
Walking distance.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lake Ashi Cruise

Take a peaceful boat cruise on Lake Ashi with stunning views of Mount Fuji.
Catch the pirate ship cruise from the museum.
JPY 1000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Owakudani Valley

Engage with the geothermal activity and enjoy black eggs boiled in sulfuric hot springs.
Take the Hakone Ropeway from Lake Ashi.
JPY 1300, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Tokyo

Make your way back to Tokyo after a day filled with beautiful scenery.
Return by the Romancecar.
Included, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Sukiyabashi Jiro

Indulge in a luxurious dinner at the world-famous Sukiyabashi Jiro, famed for its exquisite sushi (reservation required).
Subway from Shinjuku.
JPY 30000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Last Day in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel and prepare for your transfer to Kyoto.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Last-Minute Shopping in Akihabara

Visit Akihabara, the electronics district, to pick up some unique souvenirs, gadgets, or anime merchandise.
Take the subway from Shinjuku to Akihabara.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tsukumo Sushi

Savor fresh sushi at Tsukumo Sushi, a great spot in Akihabara to enjoy your final taste of Tokyo.
Walking distance from the shopping area.
JPY 3000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto

Take the Shinkansen to Kyoto, arriving in under three hours.
Catch the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station.
JPY 14000, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Check-In at Kyoto Hotel

Arrive at your Kyoto hotel, situated near the city center.
Walking distance from Kyoto Station.
JPY 0, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Gion Kappa

Savor traditional kaiseki dining at Gion Kappa, renowned for its seasonal ingredients and beautiful presentations.
Walking distance from your hotel.
JPY 5000, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Evening in Gion District

Enjoy a lovely evening walk through the historic Gion district, where you might catch a glimpse of a geisha.
Walking distance.
Free, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Cultural Day in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Conrad Kyoto

Start your day with a luxurious breakfast at the Conrad's buffet featuring both traditional and western options.
N/A
JPY 3000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at the stunning Golden Pavilion, set in beautiful gardens reflecting in the surrounding pond.
Take a bus from Kyoto Station.
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Ryoan-ji Temple

Visit Ryoan-ji, famous for its rock garden, and appreciate the zen atmosphere.
Bus from Kinkaku-ji.
JPY 500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hyotei

Enjoy traditional kaiseki cuisine in this historic restaurant, a Michelin-starred gem.
Take a taxi from Ryoan-ji.
JPY 7000, 2 hours

3:30PM

Nanzen-ji Temple

Explore the sprawling grounds of Nanzen-ji, one of the most important Zen temples in Japan.
Taxi from Hyotei.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine on the charming Pontocho Alley, offering a wide range of dining options with a traditional ambiance.
Bus back to downtown Kyoto.
JPY 4000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Walk by the Kamo River

End your day with a serene stroll along the Kamo River as the sun sets.
Walking distance from Pontocho.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Historic Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before heading out to explore more of Kyoto.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vermilion torii gates that lead up Mount Inari.
Take the train from Kyoto Station to Inari Station.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Inari Sushi Ko

Try out inari sushi at this cozy local restaurant, a specialty in this area.
Walking distance from the shrine.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Nijo Castle

Visit the stunning Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its beautiful gardens and ornate architecture.
Take the train back to Kyoto Station, then bus to Nijo Castle.
JPY 600, 2 hours

4:00PM

Stroll through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the enchanting bamboo grove and enjoy the serene atmosphere it offers.
Take a train from Nijo to Arashiyama.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Savor soba noodles with views of the river at this renowned restaurant in Arashiyama.
Walking distance.
JPY 3500, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Relax at Onsen

Unwind at a local onsen (hot spring) to soothe your body and mind after a day of exploration.
Check at your hotel for nearby options.
JPY 3000 (optional), 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Day Trip to Nara

Nara, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Grab a nourishing breakfast at your hotel before embarking on your trip to Nara.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Nara

Make your way to Nara, Japan's first capital, known for its historic temples and friendly deer.
Take the train from Kyoto Station to Nara.
JPY 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Marvel at the Great Buddha statue housed within Todai-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Take a bus from Nara Station to Todai-ji Temple.
JPY 600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Maguro Koya

Enjoy fresh sashimi at this local gem known for its delicious seafood offerings.
Walk from Todai-ji Temple.
JPY 2500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Nara Park

Stroll through Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely and artfully blend with the beautiful scenery.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Explore the vibrant Kasuga Taisha Shrine, known for its many bronze lanterns and beautiful trails.
Walk from Nara Park.
JPY 500, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Kyoto

Make your way back to Kyoto to wrap up your day.
Take the train back to Nara Station.
Included, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Okayama

Enjoy a hearty meal at Okayama in Kyoto, famous for its delicious ramen.
Walking distance from your hotel.
JPY 1500, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Kyoto Temples Exploration

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel to prepare for a day of temple hopping.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore Kiyomizu-dera Temple, renowned for its wooden stage that offers breathtaking views of the city.
Take a bus from Kyoto Station.
JPY 400, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Okonomiyaki Kiraku

Experience the Japanese savory pancake, okonomiyaki, at this local favorite.
Walking distance from Kiyomizu-dera.
JPY 1500, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Check out the serene gardens and architecture at Ginkaku-ji, a Zen temple that showcases Japan's beauty.
Take a bus from Kiyomizu-dera.
JPY 500, 2 hours

4:00PM

Philosopher’s Path

Take a leisurely stroll along the Philosopher’s Path, lined with cherry blossoms and quaint shops.
Walking distance from Ginkaku-ji.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Sekka

Savor a contemporary twist on kaiseki at Sekka, known for its artistic presentation.
Take the bus back to downtown Kyoto.
JPY 4500, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Street Performances

Catch traditional street performances in the Gion area, experiencing Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Walking distance.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Day Trip to Osaka

Osaka, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel to energize yourself for a day in Osaka.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Osaka

Head to Osaka, known for its vibrant nightlife and delicious food.
Take a train from Kyoto to Osaka.
JPY 600, 30 minutes

10:30AM

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore Osaka Castle, a symbol of Osaka with a rich historical background and lovely surrounding gardens.
Take the subway from Osaka Station.
JPY 600, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Indulge in Osaka's street food at Dotonbori, where you can sample takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
Walking distance from Osaka Castle.
JPY 2000, 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Wander through Shinsaibashi's vibrant shopping district, filled with local and international brands.
Walking distance from Dotonbori.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M

Enjoy exquisite Matsusaka beef at this well-regarded restaurant for a memorable dining experience.
Short subway ride from Shinsaibashi.
JPY 8000, 2 hours

8:00PM

Return to Kyoto

Spend the evening at leisure, reflecting on your trip so far.
Train back to Kyoto.
Included, 30 minutes
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Leisure Day in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Sleep in a bit as you enjoy breakfast at your hotel during this leisurely day.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Stroll through Kyoto Botanical Gardens

Visit the Kyoto Botanical Gardens to appreciate beautiful flora, showcasing all seasons.
Take the train to Kitayama Station.
JPY 200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Taru

Relish a delicious meal at Taru, known for its fusion Japanese dishes.
Walking distance from the gardens.
JPY 2500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts

Learn about the traditional crafts of Kyoto, including pottery and textiles.
Take a taxi from the restaurant.
JPY 600, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Naritaya

Enjoy authentic ramen at Naritaya, a favorite among locals.
Walking distance from the museum.
JPY 1000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Evening at Kyoto Tower

Get a panoramic view of the city from the observation deck of Kyoto Tower as night falls.
Walking distance from your hotel.
JPY 800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Departure from Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Japan, lingering over the flavors of your journey.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Last-Minute Shopping in Kyoto

Shop for last-minute souvenirs and gifts in the bustling streets of downtown Kyoto.
Take a bus or walk.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Ajiro

Indulge in a final authentic Japanese meal at this charming local eatery.
Walking distance from shopping areas.
JPY 2000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Travel to Kansai International Airport

Make your way to Kansai International Airport for your departure flight.
Take the express train from Kyoto Station.
JPY 3600, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability