12-Day Scenic Adventure from Tokyo to Yamagata

Day 1: Explore Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on March 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Start your day with fresh sushi and seafood at Tsukiji, where the bustling market atmosphere sets the tone for a vibrant day.
JPY1500, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Discover Tokyo's oldest temple, featuring traditional architecture and a vibrant shopping street leading to its entrance.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch in Asakusa

Savor tempura or noodle dishes at one of the many local eateries around Asakusa for an authentic Japanese experience.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Akihabara

Dive into the electric town of Akihabara, known for its electronics shops and vibrant otaku culture.
JPY0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Gonpachi

Experience the famous izakaya that inspired ‘Kill Bill’, serving delicious yakitori and other Japanese dishes.
JPY3500, 2 hours

Day 2: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan on March 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a continental breakfast at your Tokyo hotel before departing for Nikko.
JPY0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Nikko National Park

Visit the stunning natural landscapes at Nikko National Park, including waterfalls and ancient trees.
JPY0, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Yuba Restaurant

Try the local specialty, yuba (tofu skin), at a charming restaurant near the Toshogu Shrine.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Toshogu Shrine

Explore the ornate architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu.
JPY1300, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Enjoy a casual dinner at a local izakaya, tasting regional ingredients in a lively atmosphere.
JPY3000, 2 hours

Day 3: Sendai Exploration

Sendai, Japan on March 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading out for the day.
JPY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Sendai Castle Ruins

Visit the historic castle ruins for panoramic views of the city and a peek into Sendai's rich history.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gyutan Yaki

Savor Sendai’s famed grilled beef tongue at a restaurant renowned for this local specialty.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Zuihoden Mausoleum

Discover the ornate mausoleum of Date Masamune, showcasing traditional architecture and serene surroundings.
JPY800, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Enjoy a variety of izakaya dishes, perfect for sharing with friends or family.
JPY2700, 2 hours

Day 4: Scenic Matsushima

Matsushima, Japan on March 14, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a complimentary breakfast at your Sendai hotel.
JPY0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Matsushima Bay Cruise

Take a boat cruise through the beautiful bay, famous for its scenic islands and breathtaking views.
JPY1800, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch with View

Dine at a waterfront restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood while overlooking the stunning bay.
JPY3500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Zuigan-ji Temple

Explore this important Zen temple known for its stunning gardens and historic significance.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Izakaya Matsushima

Enjoy a delightful dinner featuring seasonal ingredients from coastal waters.
JPY2800, 2 hours

Day 5: Cultural Yamadera

Yamadera, Japan on March 15, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a calm breakfast in your Matsushima accommodation before heading to Yamadera.
JPY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hike to Yamadera Temple

Embark on a scenic hike up the 1,000 stone steps to the famous Yamadera Temple, enjoying the serene mountain views.
JPY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Café

Refuel at a cozy local café serving hearty rice bowls and noodle dishes.
JPY1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Yamadera's Scenic Views

Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys from the temple area.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner in Yamadera Town

Dine at a small eatery while enjoying the authentic atmosphere and local flavors.
JPY2500, 2 hours

Day 6: Discover Yamagata

Yamagata, Japan on March 16, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor a traditional Japanese breakfast at your Yamadera accommodation.
JPY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Yamagata Castle Park

Explore the ruins and gardens of Yamagata Castle, enjoying a gentle stroll in the serene surroundings.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Yamagatan Dining

Try dishes made from Yamagata's famous produce, including cherries and apples, at a local eatery.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Cherry Blossom Temple

See the iconic cherry blossoms at this beautiful temple, especially stunning during the spring season.
JPY500, 1 hour

4:00PM

Dinner at a Local Sushi Bar

Enjoy an array of fresh sushi created with locally sourced fish and ingredients.
JPY4000, 2 hours

Day 7: Visit Sakata

Sakata, Japan on March 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Refuel with breakfast at your Yamagata accommodation before heading to Sakata.
JPY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Sakata’s Historic District

Spend the morning wandering through the charming streets lined with traditional merchant houses and historic buildings.
JPY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sakata Seafood Market

Indulge in fresh seafood dishes sourced directly from Sakata's fishing industry at the market.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Kamo Aquarium

Explore one of Japan's best aquariums, featuring diverse marine life and beautiful exhibitions.
JPY1200, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Local Restaurant

Enjoy a cozy dinner at a local restaurant, renowned for its soba noodles.
JPY2200, 2 hours

Day 8: Explore Tsuruoka

Tsuruoka, Japan on March 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have breakfast at your accommodation before exploring the beautiful town of Tsuruoka.
JPY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Tsuruoka Park

Relax in this beautiful park known for its seasonal flowers and peaceful walking paths.
JPY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tsuruoka Sushi

Enjoy delicious sushi at a locally famed sushi spot, using fresh ingredients sourced from the region.
JPY3500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Historic Streets of Tsuruoka

Wander through the historic streets lined with charming samurai residences and traditional shops.
JPY0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a Traditional Ryokan

Experience an authentic kaiseki dinner at a ryokan, sampling multiple courses made from local ingredients.
JPY5000, 2.5 hours

Day 9: Explore the Shonai Region

Shonai, Japan on March 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional breakfast at your accommodation in Tsuruoka.
JPY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Yuza Onsen

Relax and rejuvenate while exploring this famous hot spring known for its healing properties.
JPY1000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Dine at a local restaurant favored by the locals for its seasonal produce and impressive flavors.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore the Countryside

Take a leisurely drive or bike ride through the scenic countryside, enjoying breathtaking landscapes.
JPY0, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Shonai Izakaya

End your day with a casual dinner at a local izakaya offering a variety of shareable plates.
JPY3000, 2 hours

Day 10: Return to Yamagata City

Yamagata, Japan on March 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your Tsuruoka accommodation before returning to Yamagata City.
JPY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Yamagata Museum of Art

Discover contemporary and traditional art at this museum showcasing local and international artists.
JPY800, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Café

Enjoy a light lunch at a cozy café known for its delicious desserts and local coffee blends.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Local Shopping Arcades

Spend some time browsing local shops and trying out regional snacks in the vibrant city atmosphere.
JPY0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Dine at a local favorite restaurant known for its ramen and local delicacies.
JPY2800, 2 hours

Day 11: Day Trip to Akita

Akita, Japan on March 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your Yamagata hotel before heading to Akita.
JPY0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Akita Senshu Museum

Explore the unique collections showcasing the art and culture of the Akita region.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Soba Restaurant

Indulge in Akita's famous handmade soba noodles at a well-regarded local eatery.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Kanto Festival Museum

Learn about the incredible Kanto Festival and see stunning displays showcasing the lanterns used in the celebration.
JPY500, 1 hour

4:00PM

Dinner at a Traditional Restaurant

Enjoy dinner featuring Akita's famous kiritanpo (grilled rice on a stick) at a local restaurant.
JPY3000, 2 hours

Day 12: Return to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on March 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor breakfast at your hotel in Yamagata one last time before making your way back to Tokyo.
JPY0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Travel to Tokyo

Take the Shinkansen back to Tokyo, enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way.
JPY13000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Narita Airport

Grab lunch at one of the dining options at Narita Airport before your departure.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Last-minute Shopping

Spend your final hours exploring the shops for some souvenirs or local treats before you leave.
JPY0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Airport Lounge

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at the airport lounge, revisiting your favorite Japanese flavors one last time.
JPY3000, 2 hours