10-Day Culinary & Cultural Odyssey Through Japan: From Osaka to Hokkaido

Day 1: Arrival in Osaka

Osaka, Japan on November 7, 2024

9:00AM

Explore Osaka Castle

Kick off your journey with a visit to Osaka Castle, a historical icon surrounded by picturesque gardens that showcase the beauty of autumn.
Take the subway from Kansai International Airport to Osaka.
JPY 600, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Dotonbori Street

Sample local delicacies such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki at the vibrant and bustling Dotonbori Street.
Walk from Osaka Castle.
JPY 1000, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit Shitenno-ji Temple

Explore Japan's oldest temple, where the serene atmosphere evokes a sense of peace amidst the urban bustle.
Take the subway to Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station.
JPY 300, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shopping and Entertainment in Namba

Take in the vibrant atmosphere of Namba, filled with shops, cafes, and entertainment options.
Walk to Namba.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M

Indulge in premium Matsusaka beef at this renowned yakiniku restaurant, a must-visit for meat lovers.
Take a taxi from Namba.
JPY 7000, 2 hours
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Day 2: Culture in Osaka

Osaka, Japan on November 8, 2024

8:30AM

Breakfast at a Local Cafe

Kick start your day with a delicious breakfast sandwich and a hot coffee at a cozy local café.
Walk from your accommodation.
JPY 800, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan)

Experience one of the largest aquariums in the world, where you can marvel at the diverse marine life of the Pacific Rim.
Take the subway to Osakako Station.
JPY 2400, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Taste a variety of local foods at this famous market, known for fresh seafood and seasonal produce.
Take the subway from Osakako to Nippombashi Station.
JPY 1500, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Umeda Sky Building

Enjoy 360-degree views of Osaka from the Floating Garden Observatory atop this architectural marvel.
Take the subway to Umeda Station.
JPY 1500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Zuboraya

Experience fugu (pufferfish) delicacies, famous throughout the region, at this iconic restaurant famous for its safety and quality.
Take a taxi from the Umeda Sky Building.
JPY 5000, 2 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Kyoto, Japan on November 9, 2024

8:00AM

Travel to Kyoto

Take a short train ride to Kyoto, Japan's historical and cultural heart, known for its ancient temples.
Take the JR Shinkansen from Osaka to Kyoto.
JPY 1500, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Step into this zen temple adorned in gold leaf and surrounded by beautiful gardens that reflect on the tranquil pond.
Take bus 101 from Kyoto Station.
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Yudofu Sagano

Enjoy a traditional meal of yudofu (tofu hot pot) in a garden setting, embracing the local flavors.
Take a taxi from Kinkaku-ji.
JPY 2200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the enchanting bamboo forest, experiencing nature's serenity in this magical place.
Take bus 28 from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

This UNESCO World Heritage site represents traditional Zen architecture and is flanked by lovely gardens.
Adjacent to the bamboo grove.
JPY 500, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Savor a delectable kaiseki dinner, a multi-course meal showcasing seasonal ingredients and traditional presentation.
Take a taxi to Gion.
JPY 7000, 2 hours
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Day 4: Nara Historical Day Trip

Nara, Japan on November 10, 2024

8:00AM

Travel to Nara

Embark on a short train journey to Nara, home to ancient temples and free-roaming deer.
Take the Kintetsu Nara Line from Kyoto Station.
JPY 620, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Marvel at the Great Buddha statue and the stunning architecture of Todai-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Walk from the Nara Park Entrance.
JPY 600, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Deer Feeding at Nara Park

Interact with friendly deer roaming freely in the park while enjoying the serene scenery.
In Nara Park.
JPY 200 for crackers, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Kikusuiro

Indulge in traditional soba noodles at this local spot famous for its Nara cuisine.
Walk through the park.
JPY 1200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hiking at Mount Yoshino

Hike to the top of Mount Yoshino for breathtaking views, especially beautiful during autumn.
Take a bus to Yoshino Station from Nara Park.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Taste various small dishes and local sake for an authentic dinner experience in Nara.
Return to Nara city center.
JPY 2500, 2 hours
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Day 5: Travel to Nagoya

Nagoya, Japan on November 11, 2024

8:00AM

Travel to Nagoya

Enjoy the scenic train ride to Nagoya, known for its modern architecture and vibrant food scene.
Take the Kintetsu Limited Express from Nara to Nagoya.
JPY 2500, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Explore Nagoya Castle

Visit Nagoya Castle, a beautiful historical landmark with stunning gardens and a fascinating history.
Take the subway from Nagoya Station.
JPY 500, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hitsumabushi Bincho

Savor Nagoya’s specialty, hitsumabushi, grilled eel served over rice in a variety of ways.
Take a taxi from the castle.
JPY 3000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Osu Kannon Temple and Shopping District

Explore the vibrant shopping district around Osu Kannon and visit the historical temple at its center.
Take the subway from Sakae Station.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Yabaton

Try Nagoya's famous miso katsu at this renowned restaurant known for its crispy pork cutlets.
Take a taxi from Osu Kannon.
JPY 1500, 2 hours
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Day 6: Cultural Capital in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on November 12, 2024

8:00AM

Travel to Tokyo

Take the Shinkansen from Nagoya to Tokyo, experiencing the speed and efficiency of Japan's railway.
Take the Shinkansen from Nagoya to Tokyo.
JPY 11000, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Meiji Shrine

Stroll through the peaceful forest leading to Meiji Shrine, a perfect introduction to Japanese spirituality.
Take the subway to Harajuku Station.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Harajuku Crepes

Indulge in delicious and colorful crepes at this popular spot, a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Walk from the shrine.
JPY 800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Akihabara

Dive into the heart of anime culture with Comic shops, anime stores, and electronic goods aplenty.
Take the JR Yamanote Line from Harajuku to Akihabara.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Tokyo Skytree

Take in the breathtaking views of Tokyo from the observation deck of one of the tallest buildings in the world.
Take the Tobu Skytree Line from Asakusa Station.
JPY 2100, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ichiran Ramen

Savor your own bowl of rich tonkotsu ramen, served in a unique setting focusing on delicious flavors.
Take the subway to Shibuya.
JPY 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan on November 13, 2024

8:00AM

Travel to Nikko

Set off for Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning temples and lush nature.
Take the Tobu train from Asakusa Station to Nikko Station.
JPY 2500, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Marvel at the intricately carved and vibrant decorations of this ornate shrine, a mausoleum for Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Take bus from Nikko Station to the shrine.
JPY 1300, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Sample yuba (tofu skin) specialties at a local eatery, a specialty of the Nikko region.
Walk to a restaurant nearby.
JPY 1200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Nikko National Park

Stroll through breathtaking scenery amidst waterfalls and hiking trails in Japan's stunning national parks.
Take a bus from the shrine.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Tokyo

Head back to Tokyo via the same train route you came.
Take the Tobu train back to Asakusa.
JPY 2500, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at a Conveyor Belt Sushi

End your day with delicious and fun sushi dining at a belt restaurant in Shinjuku.
Take the subway from Asakusa.
JPY 2000, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Journey to Sendai

Sendai, Japan on November 14, 2024

8:00AM

Travel to Sendai

Board the Shinkansen to Sendai, known for its vibrant culture and delicious food.
Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Sendai.
JPY 13000, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Sendai Castle

Explore the ruins of Sendai Castle, with beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the city.
Take a bus or taxi from Sendai Station.
JPY 300, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Gyutan Yatai

Relish Sendai's famous gyutan (beef tongue) at a local yatai (food stall).
Walk from the castle.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Zuihoden Mausoleum

Visit the beautiful and artistic mausoleum of Date Masamune, the founder of Sendai.
Take a taxi from Gyutan Yatai.
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Stroll through Aobayama Park

Take a leisurely walk in this park offering stunning views of Sendai and a peaceful atmosphere.
Walk to/from the mausoleum.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Finish your Sendai experience with a visit to an izakaya, trying local specialties and sake.
Walking distance from the park.
JPY 2500, 2 hours
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Day 9: Scenic Sapporo

Sapporo, Japan on November 15, 2024

8:00AM

Travel to Sapporo

Take a morning flight to Hokkaido's capital, Sapporo, renowned for its fresh seafood and breathtaking scenery.
Fly from Sendai to New Chitose Airport, Sapporo.
JPY 10000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Sapporo Beer Museum

Learn about Japan's beer history, focusing on Sapporo brand beers while enjoying tastings.
Take the subway from JR Sapporo Station.
Free (tastings additional), 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Sapporo Central Wholesale Market

Delight in fresh seafood at stalls in the market, where you can try kaisendon (sashimi bowl) featuring local catches.
Walk from the museum.
JPY 3000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Odori Park

Stroll through Odori Park, famous for seasonal flowers and home to the Sapporo Snow Festival in winter.
Walk from the market.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Clock Tower

Stop by the iconic Sapporo Clock Tower, symbolic of the city’s history and a beautiful piece of architecture.
Walk from Odori Park.
JPY 200, 30 minutes

6:30PM

Dinner at Sapporo Ramen Alley

Indulge in Hokkaido's renowned miso ramen in this cozy alley hawker-style ramen shop.
Take the subway from Sapporo Station.
JPY 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Charming Otaru

Otaru, Japan on November 16, 2024

9:00AM

Travel to Otaru

Embark on a day trip to the charming port city of Otaru, famous for its canal and glassworks.
Take the train from Sapporo to Otaru.
JPY 640, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Otaru Canal

Wander along the picturesque canal lined with historical buildings, a perfect backdrop for photographs.
Walk to the canal from Otaru Station.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Otaru Sushi Street

Savor fresh sushi made with the day's catch in a lively and bustling atmosphere.
Walk to nearby Sushi Street.
JPY 3000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Otaru Music Box Museum

Delight in whimsical music boxes and acquire unique souvenirs in this enchanting museum.
Take a short walk from Sushi Street.
JPY 500, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shopping for Local Crafts

Browse the quaint shops selling Otaru’s famous glassworks and handmade crafts, ideal for gifts.
Around the canal area.
Free (cost of crafts additional), 2 hours

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Conclude your unforgettable journey with a traditional izakaya dinner, reflecting on your experiences.
Take a train back to Sapporo after dining.
JPY 4000, 2 hours
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