14-Day Family-Friendly Cultural and Nature Escape in Japan on a Budget

Day 1: Welcome to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Start your day with fresh sushi and grilled seafood at one of the vibrant stalls in Tsukiji Outer Market.
Take the Tokyo Metro to Tsukiji Station.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Explore Asakusa and Sensoji Temple

Stroll through the historical streets of Asakusa, visiting Sensoji Temple – Tokyo’s oldest temple.
Walk 15 minutes from Tsukiji to Asakusa.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Asakusa’s Yuyake Dandan

Enjoy traditional soba noodles at a charming restaurant overlooking the Sumida River.
Located within walking distance from Sensoji Temple.
JPY1200, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Ueno Park

A great place for families to relax; visit the zoo or just wander through beautiful gardens.
Take the Tokyo Metro from Asakusa to Ueno Station.
JPY600, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Gyukatsu Yoshida

Savor delicious gyukatsu (breaded and fried beef cutlet) served with rice and miso soup.
Walk 5 minutes from Ueno Park.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Tokyo Adventures

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hoshino Coffee

Try the fluffy pancakes served in a relaxed ambiance.
Take the subway to Ikebukuro.
JPY1200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the National Museum of Nature and Science

Engage your family with interactive exhibits on natural history and technology.
Walk 15 minutes from Hoshino Coffee.
JPY620, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ameya-Yokocho Street

Indulge in street food with options like takoyaki or yakitori from various stalls.
Walk to Ueno's Ameya-Yokocho.
JPY1000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Akihabara

Discover the vibrant electronics and otaku culture, including anime shops and arcades.
Take the JR Yamanote line from Ueno to Akihabara.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Katsu Midori Sushi

Enjoy a wonderful sushi experience with a rotating conveyor belt.
Take the subway to Shibuya, then walk to the restaurant.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature in Hakone

Hakone, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Start your day with a Japanese-style breakfast at your accommodation.
N/A
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Hakone

Enjoy the scenic train journey and views of Mount Fuji as you head towards Hakone.
Take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto.
JPY2000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hakone Bakery

Enjoy fresh baked bread and pastries at this local bakery.
Walk 10 minutes from Hakone-Yumoto Station.
JPY1000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum

Explore beautiful sculptures and installations in a stunning outdoor setting.
Take the bus from Hakone-Yumoto to the museum.
JPY1600, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Owakudani

Take a ropeway ride to Owakudani for breathtaking views and famous black eggs.
Take the Hakone Ropeway from the museum.
JPY1300, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at a Ryokan

Experience a traditional kaiseki dinner showcasing seasonal Japanese cuisine.
Return to your Ryokan by bus or pre-arranged transfer.
JPY5000, 2 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Exploration in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Ryokan

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast with grilled fish, rice, and miso soup.
N/A
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Kyoto

Board the Shinkansen (bullet train) for a quick trip to Kyoto.
From Hakone to Kyoto via Shinkansen.
JPY11000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Explore various stalls for delicious street food and local delicacies.
Walk from Kyoto Station to Nishiki Market.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at the serene beauty and reflected image of the golden temple in the pond.
Take the bus from Nishiki Market.
JPY400, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the towering bamboo stalks in a naturally stunning environment.
Take the train from Kinkaku-ji to Arashiyama.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Okakio

Enjoy local Kyoto cuisine in a cozy environment.
Walk from Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
JPY2300, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Historical Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Ryokan

Another day begins with a wholesome Japanese breakfast.
N/A
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Walk through the iconic torii gates and experience the sacred atmosphere.
Take the train from Kyoto Station to Inari Station.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a local Izakaya

Enjoy a variety of small plates in a lively atmosphere.
Nearby Fushimi Inari Shrine.
JPY1800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Gion District

Stroll through the historic streets of Gion, spotting geishas along the way.
Take the bus from lunch to Gion.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Tea Ceremony Experience

Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony for a true cultural immersion.
Prearranged location in Gion.
JPY4000, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Omen

Enjoy hand-made udon noodles in a traditional setting.
Walk from the tea ceremony location.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Visit Nara

Nara, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Ryokan

Fuel up for a day of exploration with a hearty breakfast.
N/A
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Nara

Enjoy a short train ride to the historic city of Nara.
Take the Kintetsu Line from Kyoto to Nara.
JPY600, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Nara Park

Meet the friendly free-roaming deer and enjoy the lush park environment.
Walk from Nara Station to the park.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kasuga-taisha Tea House

Rest and dine with a view of the sacred Kasuga-taisha shrine.
Walk to the tea house.
JPY1800, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Tour Todai-ji Temple

Visit this impressive temple housing a giant Buddha statue.
Walk 15 minutes from the tea house.
JPY600, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Kyoto

Travel back to Kyoto to enjoy a relaxed evening.
Take the Kintetsu Line back.
JPY600, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at a nearby Izakaya

Relish hearty food with local flavors in a casual setting.
Walk from Kyoto Station.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Culinary Delights in Osaka

Osaka, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Enjoy a mix of Asian and Western options to kickstart your day.
N/A
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Osaka

Enjoy a quick train ride to the bustling city of Osaka.
Take the JR Train from Kyoto to Osaka.
JPY560, 30 minutes

10:30AM

Visit Osaka Castle

Discover the history of Japan in this iconic castle with beautiful gardens.
Take the subway from Osaka Station to Osakajokoen Station.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Savor local street food including takoyaki and okonomiyaki while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Take subway from the castle.
JPY1200, 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Universal CityWalk

Walk around the lively entertainment district and visit shops and cafes.
Take the train from Dotonbori.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Experience traditional Japanese pub food in a welcoming setting.
Walk from Universal CityWalk back to Dotonbori.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Explore Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Begin your day with a breakfast buffet featuring both Japanese and Western dishes.
N/A
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Hiroshima

Embark on a bullet train journey towards the historic city of Hiroshima.
Take the Shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima.
JPY10000, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Pay your respects and learn about the impact of the atomic bomb through informative exhibits.
Walk from the station.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Okonomimura

Indulge in Hiroshima's famous okonomiyaki—a savory pancake filled with various ingredients.
Short walk from the park.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Hiroshima Castle

Discover the history of Hiroshima at this beautiful castle and its grounds.
Take tram from the park.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Nagata-ya

Enjoy a local favorite, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, with a view of the city.
Return to Dotonbori for dinner.
JPY1800, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Day Trip to Miyajima

Miyajima, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Prepare for a day trip with a hearty meal.
N/A
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Miyajima

Take a ferry from Hiroshima to this stunning island known for its floating torii gate.
Walk to the ferry terminal.
JPY500, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Itsukushima Shrine

Marvel at the shrine’s iconic architecture and floating torii gate during high tide.
Walk from the ferry terminal.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Taste local delicacies such as anago meshi (grilled eel on rice).
Near Itsukushima Shrine.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Mount Misen

Hike or take the ropeway to the summit for panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Take the ropeway from the shrine.
JPY1800, 3 hours

6:00PM

Return to Hiroshima

Head back to Hiroshima for the evening.
Take the ferry back.
JPY500, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Savor a range of Japanese small plates in a cozy atmosphere.
Find a recommended izakaya near your hotel.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Cultural Touchstones in Okayama

Okayama, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Fuel up with a diverse buffet before your trip.
N/A
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Okayama

Go to Okayama via Shinkansen for a quick ride.
Express train from Hiroshima.
JPY3500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Korakuen Garden

Stroll through one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens.
Walk from Okayama Station.
JPY400, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Sample traditional Okayama specialties in a rustic setting.
Nearby Korakuen Garden.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Okayama Castle

Discover the rich history of Okayama at this picturesque castle.
Walk from the garden.
JPY600, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Enjoy seasonal dishes in a warm and inviting environment.
Walk back to a nearby izakaya.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Art Island of Naoshima

Naoshima, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Charge up with a balanced breakfast before heading out.
N/A
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

From Okayama to Naoshima

Make your way to the unique art island.
Ferry from Uno Port to Naoshima.
JPY2000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Chichu Art Museum

Experience art in a stunning architectural space blending with nature.
Take a bus from the port.
JPY3000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Shioya

Dine at a quaint local place, focused on fresh, local catch.
Short bus ride from the museum.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Art House Project

Wander through a collection of art installations in traditional houses.
Walk to nearby houses in Honmura.
JPY1000, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Okayama

Experience the ferry back and enjoy the sea views.
Take a ferry back to Uno Port.
JPY2000, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Savor dishes crafted with local ingredients in a cozy setting.
Head to a nearby izakaya.
JPY1600, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Beautiful Takamatsu

Takamatsu, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Enjoy another morning of variety at breakfast.
N/A
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Takamatsu

Head to Takamatsu via local train.
Local train from Okayama to Takamatsu.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Ritsurin Garden

Explore the stunning garden, known for its beautiful landscapes and ponds.
Walk from Takamatsu Station.
JPY400, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy Sanuki udon in its native home.
In the Takamatsu area.
JPY1200, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Takamatsu's Castle Ruins

Take a peaceful walk through the ruins and enjoy the scenery.
Short walk from the lunch spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Conclude your day with local delicacies in a welcoming atmosphere.
Near the castle ruins.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Coastal Charm in Kobe

Kobe, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Get ready for a day with a hearty breakfast.
N/A
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Kobe

Ride the train to Kobe and soak in the coastal views.
Local train from Takamatsu to Kobe.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Kobe Animal Kingdom

Experience an interactive wildlife park that’s fun for all ages.
Take a bus from Kobe Station.
JPY3300, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy Kobe beef at a renowned local steakhouse.
Near the animal kingdom.
JPY5000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Meriken Park

Relax in the park with stunning bay views and interesting historical landmarks.
Take a bus from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Waterfront Restaurant

Enjoy dinner overlooking the beautiful harbor.
Easily walk from Meriken Park.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Returning to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Japan with a great buffet.
N/A
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel back to Tokyo

Enjoy your final bullet train ride back to the capital.
Take the Shinkansen from Kobe.
JPY13000, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Relax at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Take a serene stroll through this beautiful urban garden to relax before your departure.
Walk from Shinjuku Station 10 minutes.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Ramen Restaurant

Savor the famous Tokyo-style ramen in a bustling atmosphere.
Short walk from the garden.
JPY1000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shop in Harajuku

Last-minute shopping in one of Tokyo's trendiest districts.
Take the train from Shinjuku to Harajuku.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Gonpachi

Enjoy your final meal in Japan at this famous izakaya in the heart of Tokyo.
Walk to Gonpachi from Harajuku.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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