20-Day Japan Itinerary: Parks, Hikes, and Street Food Adventure (March 2025)

Day 1: Arrival in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on March 5, 2025

4:30PM

Arrival at Narita International Airport

Complete customs and immigration, then purchase a Japan Rail Pass at the JR East Travel Service Center for extensive travel throughout the country, including Shinkansen and some local trains.
50000JPY, 2 hours

6:30PM

Take the Narita Express (N'EX) to Tokyo Station

Enjoy a comfortable ride that takes about 60 minutes. The trip is included in the JR Pass.
3000JPY, 1 hour

7:30PM

Take the Shinkansen to Kyoto

Transfer to the Shinkansen for a quick trip to Kyoto, which is also covered by the JR Pass, taking about 30 minutes.
3000JPY, 30 minutes

8:00PM

Check-in at Capsule Hotel

Stay at The Prime Pod Kyoto for a unique capsule experience and convenient access to attractions.
7000JPY, 1 hour

9:00PM

Dinner at Nishiki Market

Explore the vibrant food market and taste cheap street foods like yakitori and mochi for a satisfying dinner.
1500JPY, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Explore Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on March 6, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at this stunning temple surrounded by beautiful gardens.
400JPY, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gion Namba

Try some cheap but delicious Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine in the beautiful Gion district.
2500JPY, 2 hours

2:00PM

Hike in Arashiyama, Bamboo Grove & Iwatayama Monkey Park

Take a scenic hike through this stunning bamboo grove and enjoy time with the monkeys at the park.
600JPY for the park, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ippudo

Savor rich ramen in a casual setting.
1500JPY, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Explore Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on March 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your leisure.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:30AM

Relax at the Philosophers' Path

Stroll along this picturesque cherry blossom-lined walkway.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at a Local Café

Try a local café for a light lunch with seasonal ingredients.
1500JPY, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit Nanzen-ji Temple and Garden

Explore this important Zen temple and beautiful gardens.
600JPY, 2 hours

4:00PM

Hike to Fushimi Inari Taisha

Challenge yourself with a hike up the iconic mountain, famous for its red torii gates.
Free, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Any Street Food Stall

Grab some cheap street food along your way back to the hotel.
1000JPY, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Day Trip to Nara

Nara, Japan on March 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a fulfilling breakfast before departing for Nara.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:00AM

Take the Kintetsu Nara Line

It's a short 45-minute trip to Nara, and this train is covered by the JR Pass.
600JPY, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Nara Park

Meet the friendly deer and enjoy the expansive park area.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Maguro Katsu

Enjoy delicious and affordable tuna cutlet at this local spot.
1500JPY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Todai-ji Temple

See the giant Buddha statue within this historic temple.
600JPY, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Return to Kyoto

Take the same Kintetsu Nara Line back to Kyoto.
600JPY, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cameras

Experience an affordable fusion restaurant every visitor must try.
3000JPY, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Travel to Osaka

Osaka, Japan on March 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for the day ahead.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:00AM

Take the Train to Osaka

The ride takes about 15 minutes and is covered by the JR Pass.
400JPY, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Check-in at Capsule Hotel

Stay at 9 Hours Namba, conveniently located for street food and attractions.
7000JPY, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Relish in the famous street foods like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
1500JPY, 2 hours

2:00PM

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore the historical castle and its beautiful surrounding park.
600JPY, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Kuromon Market

Taste a variety of cheap local delicacies and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
2000JPY, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Explore Shinsaibashi

Enjoy shopping and nightlife in this vibrant district.
Free to explore, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Day Trip to Himeji

Himeji, Japan on March 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor breakfast before your day trip.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:30AM

Take Shinkansen to Himeji

About an hour ride covered by JR Pass; enjoy the views.
11000JPY, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Himeji Castle

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site known as the 'White Heron Castle'.
1000JPY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Ramen Shop

Enjoy delicious and affordable local ramen.
1500JPY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Wander Kokoen Garden

Stroll through beautiful Japanese gardens adjacent to Himeji Castle.
300JPY, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Osaka

Head back on Shinkansen using your JR Pass.
11000JPY, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Dotonbori

Try other street food options in the lively area.
2000JPY, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Travel to Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan on March 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before checking out.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:30AM

Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima

The ride takes about 1.5 hours and is covered by the JR Pass.
11000JPY, 2 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at Capsule Hotel

Stay at Capsule Hotel CUBE in Hiroshima, which is affordable and convenient.
6000JPY, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Okonomimura

Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki made fresh right in front of you.
1500JPY, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Reflect on history at this monument dedicated to peace.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Nagataya

Indulge in delicious local dishes in a casual atmosphere.
2000JPY, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Explore Downtown Hiroshima

Take a walk and enjoy the local nightlife.
Free to explore, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Visit Miyajima Island

Miyajima Island, Japan on March 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor breakfast in preparation for the day.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:30AM

Take the Ferry to Miyajima Island

The ferry ride is short, around 30 minutes, and is covered by the JR Pass during peak season.
1800JPY, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Itsukushima Shrine

Explore the famous shrine known for its floating torii gate.
300JPY, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch on Miyajima

Enjoy grilled oysters, a local delicacy while on the island.
1500JPY, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Hike to Mt. Misen

Take a scenic hike for breathtaking views of the surrounding islands.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Return to Hiroshima

Ferry back to Hiroshima after a fulfilling day.
1800JPY, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Sushi-Tei

Try unique sushi dishes at this popular restaurant.
2000JPY, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Travel to Takayama

Takayama, Japan on March 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Hiroshima.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:30AM

Take the Shinkansen to Nagoya

This ride will take around 1.5 hours and is covered by the JR Pass.
11000JPY, 1 hour

11:30AM

Take the Limited Express to Takayama

Transfer to the Limited Express that runs directly to Takayama, also covered by the JR Pass.
4000JPY, 2 hours

2:00PM

Check-in at Local Guesthouse

Stay at a guesthouse for a traditional Japanese experience.
8000JPY, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Takayama Old Town

Wander around this well-preserved area filled with shops and cafes.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Experience casual dining with local specialties.
2000JPY, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Visit Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go, Japan on March 14, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Start your day with a hearty breakfast.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:30AM

Take a Bus to Shirakawa-go

Enjoy a scenic bus ride to the UNESCO World Heritage site (not covered by JR Pass).
3000JPY, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Shirakawa-go Village

Wander through this picturesque village known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
Free, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Savor mountain cuisine at a local eatery.
2000JPY, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Return to Takayama

Take the bus back to Takayama and enjoy the scenery.
3000JPY, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore Takayama Market

Visit the morning market and find local produce and crafts.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a meal with traditional Hida beef.
3000JPY, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Travel to Kanazawa

Kanazawa, Japan on March 15, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Enjoy breakfast before your travels today.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:00AM

Take Limited Express to Kanazawa

Transfer back to the Limited Express to Kanazawa, covered by JR Pass.
4000JPY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Check-in at Capsule Hotel

Stay at a convenient capsule hotel for easy access to attractions.
7000JPY, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Omicho Market

Savor fresh seafood and local street food in this vibrant market.
2000JPY, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Kenroku-en Garden

Explore one of Japan's most beautiful gardens.
400JPY, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner in the Geisha District

Experience traditional cuisine while walking through a historic area.
2000JPY, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Travel to Matsumoto

Matsumoto, Japan on March 16, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast before heading out.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Matsumoto

Enjoy the scenic ride to Matsumoto; also covered by the JR Pass.
4000JPY, 2 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at Capsule Hotel

Stay at a capsule hotel for comfort and convenience.
7000JPY, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Soba Shop

Try delicious local soba noodles for a comforting meal.
1500JPY, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Matsumoto Castle

Discover the stunning architecture of this national treasure.
600JPY, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Experience the charming atmosphere with Japanese cuisine.
2000JPY, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Travel to Nagano

Nagano, Japan on March 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up before traveling to Nagano.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Nagano

Enjoy the scenic ride to Nagano; also covered by the JR Pass.
2000JPY, 2 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at Local Guesthouse

Stay at a cozy guesthouse for a traditional experience.
8000JPY, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Try Nagano's famous soba noodles at a local eatery.
2000JPY, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Zenko-ji Temple

Explore this historic temple, one of Japan's most important pilgrimage sites.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Taste local delicacies in a friendly and casual atmosphere.
2000JPY, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Travel to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on March 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Savor your final breakfast in Nagano.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Tokyo

Enjoy the ride to Tokyo; also covered by the JR Pass.
6000JPY, 2 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at Capsule Hotel

Stay at The Millennials Shibuya for a modern capsule experience.
8000JPY, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Shibuya

Try yakitori from a local street vendor.
1500JPY, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Meiji Shrine

Explore this tranquil shrine located in a surrounding forest.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tofuya Ukai

Experience a unique dining experience specializing in tofu dishes.
5000JPY, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 15: Explore Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on March 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast; fuel up for a busy day ahead.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ueno Park

Explore the beautiful park and it’s famous zoo; it's a great spot for more street food.
Entry Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch in Ameyoko Market

Enjoy a variety of street food offerings in this vibrant market.
2000JPY, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Akihabara

Dive into the electric town for electronics and anime goods.
Free to explore, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Savor a casual meal in this bustling area.
2000JPY, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 16: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan on March 20, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with an early breakfast.
1000JPY, 1 hour

8:30AM

Take the Limited Express to Nikko

Enjoy the scenic ride (covered by JR Pass); it takes about 2 hours.
4000JPY, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore the richly-decorated shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu.
1300JPY, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Savor the local yuba dish (tofu skin) from a recommended fare.
1500JPY, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Hike around Lake Chuzenji & Kegon Falls

Enjoy stunning natural scenery with this hike; great for photos.
Free to explore, 3 hours

7:00PM

Return to Tokyo

Head back to Tokyo after a fulfilling day.
4000JPY, 2 hours

9:00PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Relax at a local izakaya after a long day.
2000JPY, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 17: Travel to Hakone

Hakone, Japan on March 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your breakfast before heading to Hakone.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:00AM

Take the Shinkansen to Odawara

Enjoy a scenic ride (included in your JR Pass); it takes about 30 minutes.
6000JPY, 1 hour

10:30AM

Take the Hakone Open-Air Museum

Explore this unique museum featuring contemporary sculpture.
1600JPY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch in Hakone

Grab a bite from a local restaurant or food truck.
1500JPY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Take a Boat Cruise on Lake Ashi

Enjoy a serene boat ride with stunning views of Mt. Fuji.
1000JPY, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Owakudani Volcanic Valley

See volcanic activity and try black eggs cooked in hot springs.
Free to explore, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Experience traditional kaiseki or soba in the area.
3500JPY, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 18: Travel to Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji, Japan on March 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the day with breakfast before departing.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:00AM

Take a Bus to Mount Fuji

Enjoy a scenic bus ride (not covered by JR Pass, approx. 2000JPY).
2000JPY, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Fuji Five Lakes

Enjoy stunning views and recreational activities around the lakes.
Free to explore, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch Picnic

Have a picnic while enjoying beautiful views of Mount Fuji.
1000JPY, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Mt. Fuji 5th Station

Check out the stunning views from the 5th Station.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Return to Tokyo

Head back to Tokyo after an amazing day.
2000JPY, 2.5 hours

9:00PM

Dinner in Tokyo

Enjoy some last street food options before your trip ends.
2000JPY, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 19: Free Day in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on March 23, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your leisure.
1000JPY, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Harajuku

Check out the trendy shops and unique fashion in this vibrant area.
Free to explore, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kawaii Monster Cafe

Dine in a quirky themed cafe while enjoying a fully Instagrammable meal.
2500JPY, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit TeamLab Borderless

Immerse yourself in interactive art installations in this digital art museum.
3200JPY, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu

Savor gyukatsu, a breaded and fried beef cutlet that’s a delight.
2000JPY, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Relax in Odaiba

Unwind by the waterfront with shops, entertainment, and stunning views.
Free to explore, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 20: Departure from Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on March 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a final breakfast before heading to the airport.
1000JPY, 1 hour

9:00AM

Free time for last-minute shopping

Enjoy some last-minute shopping or sightseeing before leaving.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Check-out and head to Narita Airport

Head to the airport using the Narita Express, included in your JR Pass.
Free with JR Pass, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability