Two Weeks in Japan: Culture, Cuisine, and Nature

Day 1: Explore Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on February 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Start your day with fresh sushi and traditional Japanese breakfast options at Tsukiji, a bustling seafood market.
JPY1000, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple

Discover Tokyo's oldest temple, Senso-ji, and experience the vibrant Nakamise-dori shopping street leading up to it.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Asakusa Imahan

Enjoy high-quality sukiyaki at Imahan, famous for its marbled beef and delicious dipping sauces.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Akihabara District

Dive into the heart of otaku culture with shops dedicated to anime, manga, and gaming.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Tokyo Tower

Visit this iconic landmark for breathtaking views of the Tokyo skyline, especially beautiful at sunset.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Experience the famous ‘Kill Bill’ restaurant and savor traditional izakaya dishes in a lively atmosphere.
JPY5000, 2 hours

Day 2: Tokyo Highlights

Tokyo, Japan on February 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de L’ambre

Enjoy a special cup of coffee and light pastries at this cozy café known for its unique blends.
JPY800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Meiji Shrine

Take a peaceful stroll through the beautiful forested area leading to this Shinto shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Harajuku and Takeshita Street

Experience the trendy fashion culture of Harajuku, filled with unique shops and colorful street art.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka

Try the famous conveyor belt sushi at Uobei, where your order zooms to you on a bullet train.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Shibuya Crossing

Witness one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere around.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Relax in this expansive garden featuring beautiful landscapes, perfect for strolling and unwinding.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Omoide Yokocho

Dine in this charming alley filled with small restaurants serving yakitori and other grilled dishes.
JPY3500, 2 hours

Day 3: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan on February 24, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a light breakfast at your hotel before departure.
JPY1000, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Nikko

Take the train to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning shrines and natural beauty.
JPY4000, 2 hours

10:00AM

Toshogu Shrine

Explore this ornate shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate.
JPY1300, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Savor delicious local soba noodles and grilled dishes in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Rinnoji Temple

Visit this temple with beautiful gardens and important cultural artifacts.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Lake Chuzenji

Take in the breathtaking scenery of this beautiful lake surrounded by mountains; great for relaxing.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Tokyo

Head back to Tokyo as the day concludes.
JPY4000, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Tofuya Ukai

Enjoy a delightful dinner of kaiseki cuisine in a serene setting near Tokyo Tower, renowned for its fresh tofu dishes.
JPY6000, 2 hours

Day 4: Relax in Hakone

Hakone, Japan on February 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to prepare for a day of exploration.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Hakone

Ride the train to Hakone, famous for its hot springs and views of Mount Fuji.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Appreciate the blend of nature and art in this unique outdoor museum featuring sculptures and artworks.
JPY1600, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hakone Kitchen

Enjoy a seasonal menu utilizing fresh local ingredients, perfect for a midday recharge.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Owakudani Valley

Experience the volcanic activity with stunning views and delicious black eggs boiled in sulfuric hot springs.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Lake Ashi

Take in the views while cruising on Lake Ashi, where you can see Mount Fuji on clear days.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional ryokan dinner featuring kaiseki-style dishes while relaxing in the hot springs.
JPY8000, 2 hours

Day 5: Kyoto Culture

Kyoto, Japan on February 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at your ryokan.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Kyoto

Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto, the heart of traditional Japan.
JPY13000, 2 hours

11:00AM

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit this stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample various local dishes and snacks at this historic market known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen'.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the enchanting bamboo forest and enjoy the serene environment.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site set within beautiful gardens, a stunning example of Zen architecture.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Indulge in a traditional kaiseki dinner that showcases seasonal ingredients and delicate presentation.
JPY10000, 2 hours

Day 6: Kyoto Temples and Gardens

Kyoto, Japan on February 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a light breakfast at your ryokan before sightseeing.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Explore the iconic thousand Torii gates of Fushimi Inari, a must-see Shinto shrine.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit this historic temple with stunning views of Kyoto and beautiful wooden structures.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Okonomiyaki Katsu

Savor a delicious okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake) made to order right in front of you.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Philosopher's Path

Take a peaceful walk along this picturesque canal lined with cherry trees and cafes.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Nanzen-ji Temple

Explore this large Zen temple complex with beautiful gardens and a tranquil atmosphere.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Yudofu Sagano

Enjoy a vegetarian meal featuring Yudofu (tofu hot pot) in a serene temple-like setting.
JPY3000, 2 hours

Day 7: Day Trip to Nara

Nara, Japan on February 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your Kyoto hotel.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Nara

Take the train to Nara, a city known for its ancient temples and free-roaming deer.
JPY1500, 1 hour

10:00AM

Todai-ji Temple

Visit this grand temple housing a massive Great Buddha statue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kameya

Enjoy a local favorite, Kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves), at this charming restaurant.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Nara Park

Explore this beautiful park where you can interact with friendly deer and visit several temples.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Kasuga-taisha Shrine

Visit this stunning shrine famous for its lanterns, located in a lush forest setting.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Kyoto

Head back to Kyoto as the day wraps up.
JPY1500, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Kyo-ya

Experience a delightful kaiseki meal in an intimate setting, showcasing the best of seasonal ingredients.
JPY10000, 2 hours

Day 8: Explore Osaka

Osaka, Japan on March 1, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor a delightful breakfast featuring regional specialties at your hotel.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Osaka

Take the train to Osaka, known for its food culture and vibrant street life.
JPY1000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Osaka Castle

Visit this iconic castle with stunning gardens and a fascinating museum inside.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori Street

Explore this lively district and try famous dishes like takoyaki and okonomiyaki from street vendors.
JPY3000, 2 hours

2:00PM

Shitenno-ji Temple

Visit one of Japan's oldest temples, offering beautiful architecture and peaceful gardens.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Umeda Sky Building

Take in the breathtaking views from the floating garden observatory of this modern architectural marvel.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Savor delicious kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) in a casual and cheerful environment.
JPY3500, 2 hours

Day 9: Visit Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan on March 2, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your Osaka hotel before heading out.
JPY1000, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Hiroshima

Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima, known for its historical significance and resilience.
JPY12000, 2 hours

10:00AM

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Pay your respects and learn about the history of Hiroshima at this solemn yet beautiful park.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Okonomimura

Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at this restaurant dedicated to this local dish.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hiroshima Castle

Visit this reconstructed castle and learn about Hiroshima’s feudal past while enjoying the surrounding gardens.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shukkeien Garden

Stroll through this beautiful garden designed in the typical landscape style of traditional Japanese gardens.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Koba

Experience a trendy atmosphere while enjoying traditional Japanese dishes with a modern twist.
JPY3000, 2 hours

Day 10: Discover Miyajima

Miyajima, Japan on March 3, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have breakfast at your Hiroshima hotel before traveling to Miyajima.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Miyajima

Take a ferry to the scenic island of Miyajima, famous for its floating torii gate.
JPY1800, 1 hour

10:00AM

Itsukushima Shrine

Visit this iconic shrine that appears to float on water during high tide, an impressive sight.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kakiya

Savor fresh oysters, a local specialty, in this casual restaurant with a beautiful view.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Hike to Mount Misen

Take a hike to the summit of Mount Misen for stunning panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Hiroshima

Take the ferry back to Hiroshima to continue your journey.
JPY1800, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Sushitei Hakutaru

Indulge in expertly crafted sushi at this quiet restaurant, known for its fresh ingredients.
JPY5000, 2 hours

Day 11: Okayama and Korakuen

Okayama, Japan on March 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your Hiroshima hotel before heading to Okayama.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Okayama

Take the train to Okayama, famous for its beautiful landscapes and gardens.
JPY4000, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Korakuen Garden

Explore one of Japan's top three gardens, known for its beautiful scenery and traditional design.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ikeda

Experience a delightful meal of Okayama's local specialty, Barazushi (scattered sushi) at a great local restaurant.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Okayama Castle

Visit this reconstructed castle and stroll through the lovely gardens surrounding it.
JPY600, 2 hours

3:30PM

Return to Hiroshima

Travel back to Hiroshima for the night.
JPY4000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Okonomi-mura

Indulge in Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at a local favorite spot, where you can watch chefs prepare your meal.
JPY1500, 2 hours

Day 12: Himeji Castle Day

Himeji, Japan on March 5, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a light breakfast at your Hiroshima hotel.
JPY1000, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Himeji

Take the train to Himeji, famed for its beautiful castle.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Himeji Castle

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as Japan's most beautiful castle, surrounded by stunning gardens.
JPY1000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Katsuya

Enjoy a delicious katsu meal at this local favorite near the castle.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Kokoen Garden

Stroll through the beautiful Japanese garden right next to Himeji Castle, perfect for a peaceful walk.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return to Hiroshima

Take the train to Hiroshima for the night.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Don Quijote

Experience a lively atmosphere and great selection of street food-style dishes in a vibrant setting.
JPY2500, 2 hours

Day 13: Day Trip to Nagoya

Nagoya, Japan on March 6, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your Hiroshima hotel before journeying to Nagoya.
JPY1000, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Nagoya

Take the train to Nagoya, a city celebrated for its history and culture.
JPY12000, 2 hours

10:00AM

Nagoya Castle

Visit this historic castle with beautiful gardens, a symbol of Nagoya's rich history.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hitsumabushiin

Delight in Nagoya's famous eel dish, Hitsumabushi, served with multiple ways to enjoy it.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Toyota Commemorative Museum

Learn about Japan's automotive history in this fascinating museum showcasing Toyota's journey.
JPY1000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Osu Kannon Temple

Explore this vibrant temple and shopping district filled with traditional shops and stalls.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Yabaton

Taste Nagoya's famous miso katsu in a vibrant setting that locals love.
JPY3500, 2 hours

Day 14: Back to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on March 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Finish your trip with a nice breakfast at your Nagoya hotel.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Tokyo

Take the Shinkansen back to Tokyo for your last day.
JPY12000, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Last-minute Shopping in Shibuya

Grab souvenirs and explore the vibrant shops in Shibuya before heading home.
Variable, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ichiran Ramen

Experience a unique dining experience at Ichiran, famous for its tonkotsu ramen served in individual booths.
JPY1200, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Akihabara

Pick up any last-minute items and enjoy the electric town's unique culture.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Sushi Saito (Reservation Needed)

Indulge in a sushi dining experience at one of the best sushi restaurants in the world.
JPY20000, 2 hours