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14-Day Epic Journey Through Japan: Culture, Nature, and Autumn Foliage

Viewed by 83 travelers

Day 1: Arriving in Vibrant Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Start your day with fresh sushi and seafood at one of the local stalls, experiencing the flavours of Japan right at the source.
Walk down to the outer market from your hotel in the Tsukiji area.
JPY1500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple

Stroll through Asakusa's temple district, visiting Tokyo's oldest temple and soaking in the rich history and culture.
Take the Tokyo Metro from Tsukiji to Asakusa station.
JPY0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Asakusa's Namiki Kusunoki

Sample delicious soba noodles and tempura in this traditional restaurant.
Walking distance from Senso-ji.
JPY2000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Ueno Park and Museums

Explore the beautiful Ueno Park, visiting museums or simply enjoying a peaceful walk.
Take the Tokyo Metro from Asakusa to Ueno.
JPY0, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Izakaya in Shinjuku

End your first day with a variety of izakaya dishes in bustling Shinjuku, experiencing Tokyo nightlife.
Take the Tokyo Metro from Ueno to Shinjuku.
JPY3000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 2: Discover Contemporary Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café in Harajuku

Enjoy a trendy breakfast at one of Harajuku’s delicious cafes, famous for their aesthetic and unique dishes.
Travel to Harajuku using the JR Yamanote line.
JPY1200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Meiji Shrine

Visit the serene Meiji Shrine, a beautiful contrast to the urban buzz surrounding it.
Walk from Harajuku station to the shrine.
JPY0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Omotesando Hills

Have a stylish lunch at Omotesando Hills, where you can indulge in a variety of international cuisine.
Walk to Omotesando, just a short distance from the shrine.
JPY2500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shopping in Shibuya

Experience the famous Shibuya Crossing and enjoy shopping at various boutiques and department stores.
Take the Tokyo Metro to Shibuya.
JPY0, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sukiyabashi Jiro

Treat yourself to an exceptional sushi experience at this world-renowned restaurant.
Travel back to Ginza using the Tokyo Metro.
JPY30000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 3: Cultural Escape to Nikko

Nikko, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before your day trip to Nikko.
Take the Tobu Nikko Line from Asakusa Station to Nikko.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa shogunate.
Walk from Nikko Station to the shrine.
JPY1300, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Yuba (Tofu Skin) Restaurant

Try Yuba, a local specialty, at a quaint restaurant in Nikko.
Walk to a nearby restaurant.
JPY1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls

Enjoy the stunning views of nature, taking a short bus ride to Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls.
Take a local bus from Nikko.
JPY1000, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Tokyo

Head back to Tokyo and relax after your eventful day.
Travel back via the Tobu Nikko Line.
JPY1500, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Ichiran Ramen

Conclude your day with a bowl of delicious ramen at this famous chain.
Take the Tokyo Metro to Ichiran.
JPY1000, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Nikko

Day 4: A Day in Hakone

Hakone, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before departing for Hakone, where hot springs await.
Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Odawara, then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Visit Hakone Open-Air Museum

Admire stunning sculptures and art pieces in this unique outdoor museum.
Take the Hakone Tozan Railway to Chokoku-no-Mori Station.
JPY1600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hakone Yumoto

Savour local grilled fish and soba in a traditional Japanese restaurant.
Take the Hakone Tozan Railway to Hakone Yumoto.
JPY2500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Cruise Lake Ashi

Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on Lake Ashi with spectacular views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding autumn foliage.
Walk to the pier for the cruise.
JPY1000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at an Onsen

Indulge yourself in a traditional onsen experience in Hakone.
Walk to a nearby onsen.
JPY3000, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Ryokan

Experience kaiseki dining in your ryokan for a truly authentic taste of Japan.
Dinner is often included in your ryokan stay.
JPY6000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Hakone

Day 5: Historical Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Ryokan

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at your ryokan before heading to Kyoto.
Travel back to Odawara and take a Shinkansen to Kyoto.
JPY4000, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the beautiful gardens and iconic temple, covered in gold leaf.
Take a local bus from Kyoto Station.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Savour various local delicacies in Kyoto's vibrant food market.
Take a bus back to Kyoto city centre.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Fushimi Inari Taisha

Walk through the iconic torii gates of this sacred Shinto shrine.
Take the JR train from Kyoto Station to Inari Station.
JPY0, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Traditional Kaiseki Restaurant

Enjoy an elaborate multi-course meal at a renowned kaiseki restaurant.
Return to central Kyoto via the JR train.
JPY8000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Kyoto

Day 6: The Arts and Zen of Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast before venturing into the day full of culture and tranquility.
Walk from your accommodation.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit this stunning temple renowned for its wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, particularly gorgeous with autumn leaves.
Take a bus from the city centre.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Ryotei

Relish traditional Kyoto cuisine at a local ryotei, featuring seasonal ingredients.
Walk back to Gion.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Gion District Walk

Stroll through the historical streets of Gion, known for its geisha culture, and enjoy the vibrant autumn hues.
Walking tour of Gion.
JPY0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a Yudofu Restaurant

Try Yudofu, a Kyoto specialty, in a serene atmosphere.
Find a local restaurant in Gion.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kyoto

Day 7: Cultural Day in Nara

Nara, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast before heading to Nara.
Take a train from Kyoto to Nara.
JPY600, 1 hour

9:00AM

Todai-ji Temple

Visit Todai-ji, housing the Great Buddha statue, one of Japan's most iconic images.
Walk to Todai-ji from Nara Station.
JPY600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Curry Shop

Enjoy uniquely Japanese curry in a cozy local restaurant.
Find a restaurant in Naramachi.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Nara Park and Deer

Take a leisurely stroll through Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely and the autumn foliage sets a picturesque scene.
Walk to Nara Park.
JPY0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a Traditional Nara Restaurant

Taste local dishes like kakinoha-zushi in a rustic eatery.
Explore nearby dining options.
JPY2500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Nara

Day 8: Vibrant Osaka

Osaka, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before heading to Osaka, known for its food culture.
Take a train from Nara to Osaka.
JPY600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore the historical Osaka Castle and its surrounding park, beautifully framed by autumn leaves.
Take the local subway to Osaka Castle.
JPY600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Savour delicious street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki in this lively neighbourhood.
Walk to Dotonbori from Osaka Castle.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Shinsaibashi

Go shopping at Shinsaibashi, Osaka’s premier shopping district.
Take the subway to Shinsaibashi.
JPY0, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Kushikatsu Restaurant

Enjoy a unique variety of kushikatsu dishes, deep-fried skewers, paired with draft beer.
Find a popular kushikatsu restaurant.
JPY3000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Osaka

Day 9: A Day of Remembrance in Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Prepare for a reflective day with breakfast before heading to Hiroshima.
Take the Shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima.
JPY11000, 2 hours

9:30AM

Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Pay your respects at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, learning about Hiroshima’s history.
Local tram from Hiroshima Station to the park.
JPY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Okonomiyaki Village

Experience Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, layered with unique toppings.
Walking distance from the park.
JPY1200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Hiroshima Castle

Explore the historical Hiroshima Castle, surrounded by lovely gardens.
Take a tram from the park.
JPY600, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Savour various Japanese dishes in a casual izakaya setting.
Walk from the castle to a nearby izakaya.
JPY2500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Hiroshima

Day 10: Island Adventure in Miyajima

Miyajima, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel in Hiroshima

Enjoy a fulfilling breakfast before heading to Miyajima Island.
Take a ferry from Hiroshima to Miyajima.
JPY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Itsukushima Shrine

Discover the iconic floating torii gate and explore the shrine.
Walk from the ferry terminal.
JPY300, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Seafood Restaurant

Savour freshly caught seafood, including grilled oysters, at a local eatery.
Find a restaurant near the shrine.
JPY3000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hike Mount Misen

Enjoy a scenic hike with breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea, especially stunning in autumn.
Head towards the mountain trail.
JPY1000, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Hiroshima for Dinner

Head back to Hiroshima after your adventures on Miyajima.
Take the ferry back to Hiroshima.
JPY2000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Local Ramen Shop

Finish your day with a bowl of comforting ramen in Hiroshima.
Find a ramen shop nearby.
JPY1000, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Miyajima

Day 11: Nature and Culture in Nagano

Nagano, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before travelling to Nagano.
Take the Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Nagano.
JPY11000, 3 hours

10:30AM

Visit Zenko-ji Temple

Explore this historic temple, famous for its beautiful architecture and spiritual significance.
Take a bus or taxi from Nagano Station to the temple.
JPY0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Soba Restaurant

Taste some of Nagano’s famous soba noodles in a charming eatery.
Walk from the temple to a local soba shop.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Togakushi Shrine

Visit this tranquil shrine, surrounded by beautiful autumn foliage and mountainous scenery.
Take a bus from Nagano to Togakushi.
JPY1000, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Nagano for Dinner

Head back to Nagano and enjoy a meal at a local izakaya, trying out various regional delicacies.
Take a bus back to Nagano.
JPY1000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Indulge in Nagano's specialties at a cozy izakaya.
Walk to a local izakaya.
JPY3000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Nagano

Day 12: Exploring the Surroundings of Nagano

Nagano, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Finish up breakfast before setting off to the Japanese Alps.
Take a local train to Kamikochi.
JPY3000, 2 hours

10:00AM

Hiking in Kamikochi

Enjoy the stunning autumn foliage while hiking through picturesque landscapes in Kamikochi.
Start your hike from Kamikochi Bus Terminal.
JPY0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch in Kamikochi

Bring a packed lunch to enjoy the breathtaking scenery amid nature.
Enjoy lunch during your hike.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Continue Hiking and Exploring

Stroll through the valleys, capturing the beauty of the mountains and vibrant autumn colours.
Continue on various trails throughout Kamikochi.
JPY0, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Nagano

Head back to Nagano and refresh after your outdoor adventure.
Take a bus back to Nagano.
JPY3000, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Savour delicious Japanese cuisine at a local restaurant, reflecting on the day's beauty.
Find a charming restaurant nearby.
JPY2500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Nagano

Day 13: Cultural Day in Matsumoto

Matsumoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before your excursion to Matsumoto.
Take the local train to Matsumoto.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Matsumoto Castle

Explore the well-preserved Matsumoto Castle, surrounded by gorgeous autumn colors.
Walk from Matsumoto Station to the castle.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Soba Restaurant

Savour local soba at a renowned restaurant, a Matsumoto specialty.
Walk to a nearby soba shop.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Nakamachi Street

Wander through this traditional merchant street, enjoying artisan shops and historic buildings.
Walk to Nakamachi Street.
JPY0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Nagano for Dinner

Head back to Nagano for your final dinner of the trip.
Take the local train back to Nagano.
JPY1500, 1 hour

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner in Nagano

Enjoy a memorable farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on your journey.
Find a delightful restaurant nearby.
JPY3000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Matsumoto

Day 14: Return to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savour a leisurely breakfast before heading back to Tokyo.
Take the train from Nagano to Tokyo.
JPY5000, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Free Time in Tokyo

Use your last day to explore anything you may have missed or revisit your favourite spots.
Travel via local metro.
JPY0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Café

Enjoy some light lunch at a charming cafe in Tokyo.
Find a nearby café.
JPY1500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Akihabara

Explore the famous district known for its electronics, anime, and otaku culture.
Travel to Akihabara via metro.
JPY0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner in Tokyo

End your incredible journey with a memorable farewell dinner at a top-rated restaurant.
Travel via metro to your restaurant of choice.
JPY8000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Tokyo
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