Epic Nature and Cultural Journey in Japan: A Foodie's Adventure on a Budget

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

7:00 PM

Arrival at Narita Airport

Upon landing, navigate through customs and immigration, feeling the excitement of your journey beginning.
Follow the signs to the Narita Express train station.
JPY 3000, 1 hour

8:00 PM

Check-in at Hostel

Settle into an affordable hostel in Tokyo to rest and recharge for the adventures ahead.
Use the prepaid Suica card to reach your accommodation.
JPY 4000, 1 hour

9:00 PM

Quick Dinner

Enjoy a quick bowl of ramen at a local eatery nearby; a must-try for your first night!
Stroll to a nearby ramen shop.
JPY 800, 30 minutes
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hostel

Fuel up with toast, eggs, and coffee for a sustaining start to your day.
Self-prepared at the hostel common kitchen.
JPY 500, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Travel to Nikko

Grab an early train to Nikko to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Take the Tobu Nikko Line from Asakusa Station.
JPY 2500, 2 hours

10:00 AM

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Discover the ornate Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Walk from the train station.
JPY 1300, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at a Local Izakaya

Savor a lunch set of soba noodles and tempura at an affordable izakaya.
Explore restaurants near the shrine.
JPY 1200, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Lake Chuzenji

Take a bus to Lake Chuzenji for breathtaking views and a peaceful walk by the water.
Catch the bus from Nikko Station.
JPY 1500, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Tokyo

Head back to Tokyo, reflecting on the day's cultural immersion and stunning nature.
Board the return Tobu Nikko Line.
JPY 2500, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Convenience Store

Grab a selection of onigiri (rice balls) and miso soup from a convenience store for a budget-friendly meal.
Nearby convenience store.
JPY 600, 30 minutes
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Kamakura Excursion

Kamakura, Japan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hostel

Enjoy yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits to start your day healthy.
Self-prepared at the hostel common kitchen.
JPY 400, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Travel to Kamakura

Head towards Kamakura, known for its rich history and beautiful coastal views.
Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo.
JPY 900, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Hike to the Great Buddha

Take a scenic hike to see the Great Buddha, a symbol of Kamakura.
Follow the designated hiking trails from the station.
JPY 200, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Visit Hase-dera Temple

Explore the beautiful gardens and stunning views from Hase-dera Temple.
Walk to Hase-dera from the Great Buddha.
JPY 400, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at a Local Cafe

Enjoy a delicious curry rice at a quaint local cafe.
Cafes nearby the temple.
JPY 1200, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Relax at Yuigahama Beach

Spend some relaxing time at Yuigahama Beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the seaside.
Walk to the beach from the cafe.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Return to Tokyo

Travel back to Tokyo, reflecting on the day's beautiful sights.
Take the JR Yokosuka Line back.
JPY 900, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

End your day with a traditional Japanese feast featuring yakitori and sake.
An izakaya in Shinjuku.
JPY 1500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Yokohama Visit

Yokohama, Japan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hostel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast of toast and jam to fuel your day.
Self-prepared at the hostel common kitchen.
JPY 500, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Yokohama

Head to Yokohama to explore its vibrant waterfront and unique cultural scenery.
Take the Minato Mirai Line from Tokyo.
JPY 1000, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Chinatown

Wander through Yokohama's Chinatown, tasting dim sum and soaking in the colorful atmosphere.
Walk from the train station.
Free to explore, food costs additional, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Enjoy steamed dumplings at a highly-rated local eatery in Chinatown.
Choose any restaurant in Chinatown.
JPY 1200, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit the Cup Noodles Museum

Learn about the history of instant ramen and create your own Cup Noodles!
A short walk from Chinatown.
JPY 500, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Explore Landmark Tower

Take in panoramic views of Yokohama from the top of Landmark Tower.
Walk to Landmark Tower from the museum.
JPY 1000, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Convini

Pick up sushi rolls and onigiri from a local convenience store for a quick and cheap meal.
Convenience store near the hotel.
JPY 800, 30 minutes

7:30 PM

Head to Yokohama Bay

Stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the beautiful night views of the bay.
Walk to Yokohama Bay.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 5: Mount Fuji Adventure

Mount Fuji Area, Japan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hostel

Enjoy a light breakfast of fruit and toast before your excursion.
Self-prepared at the hostel.
JPY 400, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Travel to Mount Fuji

Journey to Japan's iconic Mount Fuji, ready for an adventurous day in nature.
Take a bus from Shinjuku Station.
JPY 2500, 2.5 hours

10:30 AM

Visit the Fuji Five Lakes

Explore the scenic beauty of the Fuji Five Lakes and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling.
Bus to the lakes area.
Free (bike rental separately), 4 hours

2:30 PM

Lunch at Local Cafe

Enjoy a simple lunch of fried rice or curry while taking in views of Mount Fuji.
Cafe near the lakes.
JPY 1200, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Hike Near Lake Kawaguchi

Take a short hike around Lake Kawaguchi, one of the most picturesque areas to view Mount Fuji.
Follow marked trails around the lake.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Return to Tokyo

Travel back to Tokyo, reflecting on the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji you've experienced.
Bus back to Shinjuku Station.
JPY 2500, 2.5 hours

8:00 PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Enjoy a traditional dinner of grilled fish and rice at an izakaya back in Tokyo.
An izakaya in your area.
JPY 1500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Cultural Immersion in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hostel

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast with grilled fish and miso soup.
Self-prepared at the hostel.
JPY 500, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Kyoto

Catch the Shinkansen to Kyoto, excited for the cultural experiences that await.
Tak the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station.
JPY 14000, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at the stunning Gold Pavilion, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.
Take a bus from Kyoto Station.
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Local Cafe

Try yudofu (tofu hot pot) special at a local cafe.
Nearby cafes around Kinkaku-ji.
JPY 1200, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the mesmerizing Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, an iconic sight of Kyoto.
Take a bus to Arashiyama.
Free, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore Kiyomizu-dera, a stunning temple with a view of the city.
Walk or bus to Kiyomizu-dera from Arashiyama.
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at local Noodle Shop

Delight in udon noodles at a quaint local shop before continuing your exploration.
A local noodle shop near your accommodation.
JPY 900, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Evening Walk in Gion

Stroll through Gion, the traditional Geisha district, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Walk to Gion from the noodle shop.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 7: Osaka Food Adventure

Osaka, Japan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hostel

Enjoy a simple breakfast of toast and fruit before heading out.
Self-prepared at the hostel.
JPY 400, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Osaka

Take a short train ride to Osaka, eager to explore the city’s food scene.
Take the JR train from Kyoto to Osaka.
JPY 600, 30 minutes

9:00 AM

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore the iconic Osaka Castle and its surrounding gardens.
Walk from Osaka Station to the castle.
JPY 600, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Street Food in Dotonbori

Indulge in street food delights like takoyaki and okonomiyaki in Dotonbori.
Take a subway to Dotonbori.
JPY 1500, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Kuromon Market

Wander through Kuromon Market, sampling fresh seafood and deli foods.
Streetcar to Kuromon Market.
JPY 1200, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Umeda Sky Building

Gain amazing views of Osaka from the Umeda Sky Building's observation deck.
Transit to Umeda by subway.
JPY 1000, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner of grilled meat and rice at an izakaya.
Find a nearby izakaya in the Namba district.
JPY 1500, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Evening in Dotonbori

Experience the neon lights and lively atmosphere of Dotonbori at night.
Walk back to Dotonbori.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 8: Nature in Nara

Nara, Japan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hostel

Savor a simple breakfast of oatmeal and fruits.
Self-prepared at the hostel.
JPY 500, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Nara

Head to Nara, home to free-roaming deer and historical temples.
Train from Osaka to Nara.
JPY 600, 45 minutes

9:30 AM

Visit Nara Park

Enjoy interacting with the friendly deer in Nara Park.
Walk from Nara Station.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Explore Todai-ji Temple

Admire the Great Buddha statue at Todai-ji Temple, a treasure of Japanese history.
Walk to Todai-ji from Nara Park.
JPY 600, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Local Cafe

Enjoy traditional Nara-style sushi and sake at a local cafe.
Find a cafe nearby.
JPY 1200, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Kasuga-taisha Shrine

Visit the serene Kasuga-taisha Shrine, known for its beautiful lanterns.
Walk from the cafe.
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Return to Osaka

Head back to Osaka for the evening.
Train back from Nara.
JPY 600, 45 minutes

5:00 PM

Dinner at Local Ramen Shop

Finish your day with a comforting bowl of ramen in Osaka.
Find a nearby ramen shop.
JPY 800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Adventure in Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hostel

Enjoy a light breakfast of rice balls and tea.
Self-prepared at the hostel.
JPY 400, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Hiroshima

Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima, ready for a deep cultural experience.
Board the Shinkansen from Osaka.
JPY 15000, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Explore the moving Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
Walk from Hiroshima Station.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Local Okonomiyaki Shop

Taste the famous Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for lunch.
Find a shop nearby.
JPY 1200, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit the Atomic Bomb Dome

Visit the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, a symbol of Hiroshima's resilience.
A short walk from the park.
Free, 30 minutes

2:30 PM

Explore Shukkeien Garden

Stroll through the serene Shukkeien Garden, known for its beautiful landscape.
Walk from the Atomic Bomb Dome.
JPY 400, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Return to Osaka

Take the Shinkansen back to Osaka for the night.
Board the Shinkansen.
JPY 15000, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Enjoy a cozy dinner featuring Hiroshima oysters at a nearby izakaya.
Nearby izakaya in Osaka.
JPY 1500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Day Trip to Miyajima

Miyajima, Japan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hostel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast of Japanese rice and pickles.
Self-prepared at the hostel kitchen.
JPY 500, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Miyajima

Take the ferry from Hiroshima to Miyajima Island, known for its iconic torii gate.
Take the ferry from Hiroshima Port.
JPY 1800, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Itsukushima Shrine

Marvel at the stunning Itsukushima Shrine rising from the sea.
Short walk from the ferry terminal.
JPY 600, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Climb Mount Misen

Take a hike up Mount Misen for breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Terminate your visit at the ropeway station.
JPY 2200, 3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Savor anago (conger eel) rice and local specialties at a restaurant on the island.
Choose among the local eateries.
JPY 1500, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Explore Momijidani Park

Wander through the beautiful Momijidani Park, especially stunning in spring.
Walk around the park.
Free, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Return to Hiroshima

Catch the ferry back to Hiroshima, soaking up the last views of Miyajima.
Ferry back to Hiroshima Port.
JPY 1800, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Finish off your experiences with a dinner of assorted seafood dishes at an izakaya.
Nearby izakaya in Hiroshima.
JPY 1500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Return to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Local Cafe

Enjoy a quick breakfast of pancakes and coffee at a local café in Hiroshima.
Nearby local café.
JPY 800, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel Back to Tokyo

Catch the Shinkansen back to Tokyo, wrapping up your Japan adventure.
Board the Shinkansen from Hiroshima.
JPY 15000, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Explore Akihabara

Spend your final day exploring the electric town of Akihabara, known for its gaming and electronics.
Take the subway from Tokyo Station.
Free, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Maid Café

Experience a quirky lunch at a Maid Café, where the waitresses serve with charm.
Area around Akihabara.
JPY 2500, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Meiji Shrine

Explore the serene Meiji Shrine, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Tokyo.
Take a train to Harajuku Station.
Free, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Shopping in Shibuya

Enjoy shopping in Shibuya, taking in the vibrant street life.
Take the train to Shibuya.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Local Sushi Restaurant

Savor your last dinner in Japan at a sushi restaurant near your accommodation.
Find a sushi place nearby.
JPY 3000, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Prepare for Departure

Reflect on the incredible journey you’ve had and prepare to depart Japan.
Return to your hostel to collect your belongings.
Free, 1 hour
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