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12-Day Japan Adventure: Culture, Nature, and Cuisine

Viewed by 69 travelers

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

10:00AM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive at your hotel in Shinjuku and unpack to settle in.
Take the Narita Express or Airport Limousine Bus to Shinjuku.
JPY10000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ichiran Ramen

Dive into a delicious bowl of tonkotsu ramen at this popular chain, known for its unique booth dining experience.
Walk to Ichiran Ramen in Shinjuku.
JPY1200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Shibuya Crossing

Witness the famous Shibuya Crossing, an iconic symbol of Tokyo's vibrant urban life.
Take the JR Yamanote Line from Shinjuku to Shibuya.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Meiji Shrine

Stroll through the serene forested grounds of this Shinto shrine, located conveniently near Harajuku.
Walk from Shibuya to Meiji Shrine.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Gonpachi

Savor traditional izakaya-style dining while surrounded by an atmosphere famous for inspiring the Kill Bill film.
Take a taxi from Meiji Shrine to Gonpachi.
JPY3500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 2: Tokyo Discovery

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Enjoy fresh sushi breakfast at one of the many bustling stalls selling morning delicacies.
Take the subway to Tsukiji.
JPY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Tokyo Tower

Ascend the iconic Tokyo Tower for panoramic views of the sprawling city below.
Take the subway to Akabanebashi Station.
JPY1200, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sushiro

Indulge in a variety of rotating sushi plates at this popular sushi chain.
Take the subway to Sushiro in Roppongi.
JPY1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Akihabara

Dive into the world of anime, manga, and electronics in Japan's otaku hub.
Take the subway to Akihabara Station.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Ueno Park and Museums

Take a leisurely stroll through the park, enjoying the beautiful gardens and perhaps visiting a museum.
Take the subway to Ueno Station.
Museum fees vary, around JPY600, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Omoide Yokocho

Embrace the vibrant atmosphere of this alleyway filled with tiny restaurants serving yakitori and more.
Return to Shinjuku and walk to Omoide Yokocho.
JPY2500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 3: Hakone Relaxation

Hakone, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at your hotel.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Hakone

Take the Romancecar train from Shinjuku to Hakone Yumoto.
Romancecar from Shinjuku.
JPY2500, 1 hour

10:00AM

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Explore this unique outdoor museum featuring impressive sculptures, art installations, and beautiful gardens.
Bus from Hakone Yumoto to the museum.
JPY1600, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Azyu Dining

Dine on freshly grilled seafood and seasonal vegetables that perfectly embody Japanese flavors.
Walk to Azyu Dining.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Owakudani Valley

Take the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani Valley, famous for its volcanic activity and black eggs.
Ropeway from lunch spot.
JPY2000, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hakone Kanketsusen

Savor a delightful kaiseki dinner in a beautiful ryokan setting, experiencing a multi-course Japanese meal.
Return to your ryokan via bus.
JPY5000, 2 hours

8:30PM

Onsen Experience

Relax in the mineral-rich hot springs at your ryokan, a perfect end to the day.
At your ryokan.
Included in ryokan stay, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hakone

Day 4: Kyoto Temples

Kyoto, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Ryokan

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast provided by your ryokan.
N/A
Included in ryokan stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Kyoto

Take the Shinkansen from Odawara to Kyoto Station.
Shinkansen from Odawara Station.
JPY3500, 2 hours

10:30AM

Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at the stunning architecture and gardens of this iconic golden temple.
Take a bus from Kyoto Station to Kinkaku-ji.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Arashiyama

Enjoy yudofu (tofu hot pot) at a local restaurant, famous for its traditional dishes.
Bus back to Kyoto Station then train to Arashiyama.
JPY1800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama

Walk through the enchanting bamboo forest, taking in the beauty of nature.
Walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site and its stunning gardens.
Short walk from Bamboo Grove.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Experience an exquisite kaiseki meal in the heart of Gion, famed for its traditional feel.
Train back to Kyoto Station then walk to Gion.
JPY8000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Kyoto

Day 5: Cultural Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Indulge in a delightful breakfast at your hotel.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha

Walk through thousands of vermilion torii gates in this famous Shinto shrine.
Take a train from Kyoto Station to Inari Station.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Inari Sushi Ko

Delight in catered sushi that is a specialty of the Inari shrine area.
Walk from Fushimi Inari.
JPY1800, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Kiyomizu-dera

Explore this historic temple known for its wooden stage and beautiful city views.
Take a bus from the restaurant.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll through Gion District

Feel the traditional charm of Kyoto's geisha district filled with tea houses and shops.
Walk from Kiyomizu-dera.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Izakaya

Order an assortment of dishes at a local izakaya, experiencing casual Japanese dining.
Walk to a recommended izakaya nearby.
JPY3000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Kyoto

Day 6: Day Trip to Nara

Nara, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast before heading out for the day.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Nara

Take the Kintetsu Nara Line to Nara Station.
Train from Kyoto Station to Nara Station.
JPY1000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Nara Park

Interact with the friendly free-roaming deer and explore the park's beautiful scenery.
Walk from Nara Station to Nara Park.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hiraso

Try a traditional kakinoha-zushi, a unique sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves.
Walk to Hiraso.
JPY2000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Todai-ji Temple

Marvel at the Great Buddha statue, one of Japan's most impressive attractions.
Short walk from the restaurant to Todai-ji.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore Kasuga-taisha Shrine

Visit the beautiful shrine famous for its countless bronze lanterns.
Walk back to Nara Park and follow signs to the shrine.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Return to Kyoto

Head back to Kyoto for dinner and rest.
Train back to Kyoto Station.
JPY1000, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Nishiki Market

Explore the vibrant food stalls at Nishiki Market, sampling local delicacies as you dine.
Walk to Nishiki Market from Kyoto Station.
JPY2500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Nara

Day 7: Osaka Food Culture

Osaka, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Refuel for your day with breakfast at your hotel.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Osaka

Take the local train from Kyoto Station to Osaka.
Train from Kyoto to Osaka.
JPY560, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore the iconic castle and learn about its rich history.
Take the subway to Osaka Castle Park.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Savor famous street food delicacies like takoyaki and okonomiyaki in the bustling Dotonbori area.
Take a short subway ride to Dotonbori.
JPY2000, 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Kuromon Ichiba Market

Wander through this vibrant market, sampling fresh seafood and local snacks.
Walk from Dotonbori.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M

Indulge in exquisite Matsusaka beef at a renowned yakiniku restaurant.
Short walk from Kuromon Market.
JPY6000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Osaka

Day 8: Hiroshima History

Hiroshima, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Osaka.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Hiroshima

Take the Shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima Station.
Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station.
JPY10000, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Reflect on history as you explore the memorial park dedicated to peace.
Walk from Hiroshima Station.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nagataya

Enjoy Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake layered with ingredients.
Walk to the restaurant.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Hiroshima Castle

Explore the reconstructed castle and immerse yourself in its historical significance.
Bus from restaurant to the castle.
JPY600, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Okonomi-mura

Try different variations of okonomiyaki at this famous food building with various eateries.
Return to Okonomi-mura after exploring the castle.
JPY2500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Hiroshima

Day 9: Miyajima Day Trip

Miyajima, Japan

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a light breakfast at your hotel before departing.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Miyajima

Take the ferry from Hiroshima to Miyajima Island.
Walk to Peace Memorial Park and take the ferry.
JPY2000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Itsukushima Shrine

Marvel at the floating torii gate of this beautiful shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Walk from the ferry terminal.
JPY300, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Kakiya

Indulge in freshly shucked oysters, a specialty of Miyajima.
Walk to Kakiya from Itsukushima Shrine.
JPY3500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hike Mt. Misen

Embark on a hike to the top of Mt. Misen for stunning views over the Seto Inland Sea.
Take the ropeway from the base of the mountain.
JPY1800, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Shishi-ya

Relish delicious teppanyaki served up fresh at this local delight.
Return via ferry before heading to dinner.
JPY4000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Miyajima

Day 10: Travel to Takayama

Takayama, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Hiroshima.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Takayama

Take the Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Nagoya and transfer to Takayama.
Shinkansen and local train transfers.
JPY11500, 3.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Takayama Local Cuisine

Try a traditional Hida beef lunch at a local restaurant, known for its superior quality.
Walk to a nearby restaurant.
JPY4000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Takayama Jinya

Explore the historical government building, detailing the city's rich history.
Walk from the restaurant.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Stroll through the Old Town

Wander through the picturesque streets of Takayama’s historic district with its wooden houses and shops.
Walk from Takayama Jinya.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Asahi

Savor Hida grilled skewers at this local favorite.
Short walk from Old Town.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Takayama

Day 11: Kanazawa Cultural Experience

Kanazawa, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Takayama.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Kanazawa

Take the Limited Express train from Takayama to Kanazawa.
Local express train.
JPY4000, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Kenroku-en Garden

Wander through one of Japan's most beautiful landscape gardens, showcasing seasonal flora.
Take a bus from Kanazawa Station.
JPY300, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kuroyuri

Enjoy a Kanazawa-style seafood lunch rich in flavors and local ingredients.
Walk to Kuroyuri.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art

Experience innovative art exhibits in a striking architectural space.
Take a taxi from the restaurant.
JPY1000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Komatsu

Dine on authentic traditional Japanese kaiseki just close to the museum.
Walk to Komatsu.
JPY8000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Kanazawa

Day 12: Return to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Refuel at your hotel before returning to Tokyo.
N/A
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel back to Tokyo

Take the Limited Express train from Kanazawa to Tokyo.
Local express train with Shinkansen transfers.
JPY13000, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Shopping in Harajuku

Explore the fashionable streets of Harajuku, from Takeshita Street to Omotesando.
Take the subway from Tokyo Station to Harajuku.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Rilakkuma

Indulge in adorable character-themed food in this whimsical cafe.
Walk from Harajuku shopping area.
JPY2500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Tokyo Skytree

Enjoy breathtaking views from one of the tallest structures in the world.
Take the subway to Tokyo Skytree Station.
JPY2100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Final Dinner at Sumo Shokudo

Celebrate your journey with a final meal of hearty chanko nabe, a dish enjoyed by sumo wrestlers.
Take the subway back towards Tokyo Station.
JPY3500, 2 hours

9:00PM

Prepare for Departure

Return to your hotel to pack and reflect on your incredible journey through Japan.
N/A
Free, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Tokyo
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