Epic 12-Day Japan Travel Itinerary: Exploring Culture, Cuisine, and Nature

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on March 19, 2025

9:00AM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your hotel and freshen up after your journey. Look for accommodations in the Shinjuku area for easy access to attractions.
CURRENCY200, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Enjoy the serene beauty of this expansive park and its cherry blossoms in spring. Ideal for a peaceful walk or a picnic.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tsukiji Outer Market

Savor fresh sushi or seafood rice bowls at one of the many stalls. Don't miss the grilled seafood for a quick treat!
CURRENCY30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Meiji Shrine

Immerse yourself in Japanese culture at this historic Shinto shrine nestled in a tranquil forested area of Tokyo.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner in Shibuya

Dine at Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka, a conveyor belt sushi restaurant offering a unique dining experience and delicious dishes.
CURRENCY20, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Explore Shibuya Crossing

Witness the bustling energy of one of the world's busiest pedestrian intersections. Great for people-watching and vibrant night photography.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour
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Day 2: Tokyo City Adventure

Tokyo, Japan on March 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bread, Espresso.

Start your day with delicious pastries and artisan coffee at this popular local bakery.
CURRENCY10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo’s oldest temple and its vibrant shopping street, Nakamise, filled with traditional snacks and souvenirs.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch in Asakusa at Daikokuya.

Enjoy a bowl of tempura soba at this iconic restaurant, known for its long history and delicious dishes.
CURRENCY20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Odaiba and TeamLab Borderless

Visit the digital art museum for a mesmerizing interactive experience showcasing stunning light displays.
CURRENCY30, 2 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Ginza

Explore high-end boutiques and department stores in one of Tokyo's most luxurious shopping districts.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Gonpachi Nori in Azabu.

Known as the restaurant that inspired Kill Bill, enjoy a variety of yakitori in a lively atmosphere.
CURRENCY40, 2 hours
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Day 3: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan on March 21, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel.

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast to prepare for your day trip to Nikko.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Nikko.

Take an early train from Tokyo to Nikko. The scenic ride takes about 2 hours.
CURRENCY30, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Toshogu Shrine.

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its ornate architecture and beautiful decorations.
CURRENCY10, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hippari Dako.

Tuck into some comforting soba noodles at this cozy spot frequented by locals.
CURRENCY15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Lake Chuzenji.

Marvel at the stunning landscapes around this picturesque lake surrounded by mountains.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

3:00PM

Kegon Falls.

Visit one of Japan’s most beautiful waterfalls, with spectacular views and a viewing platform.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Tokyo.

Head back to Tokyo by train, allowing time to unwind.
CURRENCY30, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Ramen Santoka.

Savor rich miso ramen at this beloved ramen chain, renowned for its flavorful broth.
CURRENCY12, 1 hour
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Day 4: Day Trip to Hakone

Hakone, Japan on March 22, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel.

Enjoy another filling breakfast at your hotel before heading out.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Hakone.

Catch a train to Hakone, taking around 1.5 hours and enjoy scenic views.
CURRENCY25, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum.

Explore an incredible collection of sculptures in an outdoor setting with beautiful mountain backdrops.
CURRENCY15, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Yoseidotai.

Taste the unique flavors of kaiseki (multi-course meal) at this traditional ryokan restaurant.
CURRENCY40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at an Onsen.

Unwind at an onsen (hot spring) and enjoy bathing in naturally heated mineral water.
CURRENCY50, 2 hours

4:30PM

Take the Hakone Ropeway.

Experience breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding landscape on this scenic aerial tram.
CURRENCY20, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Gora Brewery & Grill.

Savor grilled meat and house-brewed beer at this charming local brewery, perfect for relaxation.
CURRENCY35, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Return to Tokyo.

Catch a train back to Tokyo and enjoy the evening at leisure.
CURRENCY25, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Day in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on March 23, 2025

8:00AM

Train to Kyoto.

Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto, a journey of about 2.5 hours.
CURRENCY50, 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Check-in at Hotel.

Settle into your hotel in Kyoto and prepare for an exciting day of exploring.
CURRENCY200, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion).

Marvel at the stunning golden temple set amid beautiful gardens. It's a must-see UNESCO World Heritage Site.
CURRENCY400, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market.

Sample various local street foods at this vibrant market, including pickled vegetables and grilled meats.
CURRENCY25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

Walk through the enchanting bamboo forest and visit the nearby Tenryu-ji Temple.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant.

Delight in traditional kaiseki dining in Gion, where you can taste the essence of Kyoto cuisine.
CURRENCY50, 2 hours
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Day 6: Exploring Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on March 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel.

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your hotel before continuing your Kyoto journey.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha.

Walk through thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates at this famous shrine, dedicated to the rice deity.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Omen.

Indulge in delicious udon noodles at this popular restaurant known for its authentic flavors.
CURRENCY20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Explore this iconic temple with stunning views over Kyoto, especially beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.
CURRENCY400, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore the historic streets of Gion.

Stroll through traditional streets, where you may spot geishas and experience the old-world charm of Kyoto.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pontocho Alley.

Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants lining this atmospheric alley known for its Kyoto cuisine.
CURRENCY40, 2 hours
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Day 7: Day Trip to Nara

Nara, Japan on March 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to Nara.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Nara.

Take a short train ride to Nara, approximately 45 minutes, to explore the historic city.
CURRENCY15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Todai-ji Temple.

Be wowed by the Great Buddha statue housed in this magnificent temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
CURRENCY600, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Maguro Koya.

Delight in fresh tuna dishes at this popular seafood spot known for its donburi bowls.
CURRENCY25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Nara Park.

Roam around the picturesque park home to friendly free-roaming deer and beautiful cherry blossom trees.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Kasuga-taisha Shrine.

Explore this iconic shrine adorned with hundreds of stone lanterns. The surrounding forest is a tranquil escape.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Kyoto.

Head back to Kyoto by train to rest up before dinner.
CURRENCY15, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Ippudo Ramen.

Enjoy famous tonkotsu ramen at this well-known chain, guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
CURRENCY15, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: History in Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan on March 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before departing for Hiroshima.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Hiroshima.

Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima, approximately a 2-hour journey.
CURRENCY50, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

Reflect on history at this memorial park dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Okonomimura.

Sample Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at this famous food stall complex, where you can choose various toppings.
CURRENCY20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Hiroshima Castle.

Explore the historic castle and its surrounding gardens, showcasing beautiful architecture.
CURRENCY200, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Shukkeien Garden.

Relax in this stunning Japanese garden and enjoy a peaceful stroll among the landscaped greenery.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Hanagoyomi.

Savor seasonal kaiseki cuisine in a serene environment, perfect for reflecting on the day's events.
CURRENCY50, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Day Trip to Miyajima

Miyajima, Japan on March 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel.

Enjoy breakfast before heading to the picturesque island of Miyajima.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ferry to Miyajima.

Take the ferry to Miyajima Island, celebrated for its floating torii gate, taking about 30 minutes.
CURRENCY15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Itsukushima Shrine.

Discover the famous shrine that appears to float on water. A UNESCO site, it stands as a testament to Japan's beauty.
CURRENCY300, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Kakiya.

Feast on fresh oysters, a must-try in Miyajima, at this local eatery with a charming ambiance.
CURRENCY30, 1 hour

1:00PM

Hike Mt. Misen.

Take a scenic hike up the sacred mountain for panoramic views of the island and the Seto Inland Sea.
CURRENCY0, 3 hours

4:00PM

Return to Hiroshima.

Take the ferry back to Hiroshima, where you'll return in the early evening.
CURRENCY15, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Nagataya.

Savor another take on okonomiyaki, prepared fresh in front of you at this popular spot.
CURRENCY20, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Osaka Delights

Osaka, Japan on March 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel.

Have a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before starting your Osaka adventure.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Osaka.

Travel from Hiroshima to Osaka by Shinkansen; the ride is approximately 1 hour.
CURRENCY20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Osaka Castle.

Explore the historic castle and its surrounding park, offering picturesque views and a fascinating history.
CURRENCY600, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori Street.

Sample popular street foods like takoyaki and kushikatsu in this lively and neon-lit area famous for its food scene.
CURRENCY30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Kuromon Ichiba Market.

Wander through this bustling market where you can try a variety of foods from fresh produce to seafood.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Umeda Sky Building.

Get panoramic views of Osaka from the Floating Garden Observatory, a remarkable architectural achievement.
CURRENCY1000, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Matsusaka Yakiniku M, Shabu-Shabu.

Relish premium Matsusaka beef cooked to perfection at this highly-rated grill restaurant.
CURRENCY80, 2 hours
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Day 11: Leisure Day in Osaka

Osaka, Japan on March 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel.

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan).

Discover incredible marine life at one of the largest aquariums in the world. Be sure to check the feeding times!
CURRENCY2300, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Kuromon Ichiba Market.

Return to this bustling market to sample more delicious food from various vendors.
CURRENCY30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax in Nakanoshima Park.

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon in this downtown park, ideal for taking a break and enjoying nature.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Shopping in Shinsaibashi.

Explore the trendy shops and boutiques in Osaka’s popular shopping district.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tsurutontan Udon Noodle Brasserie.

Indulge in delectable udon noodles at this stylish and modern noodle restaurant known for its signature dishes.
CURRENCY30, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Return to Tokyo and Departure

Tokyo, Japan on March 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel.

Enjoy one last breakfast at your hotel before heading back to Tokyo.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel back to Tokyo via Shinkansen.

Travel back to Tokyo with the Shinkansen, a 2.5-hour journey.
CURRENCY50, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gonpachi Nori.

Enjoy your final meal at this iconic restaurant, savoring their famous yakitori dishes.
CURRENCY40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Last-minute shopping at Shibuya.

Explore shops in Shibuya for unique souvenirs and last-minute gifts.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Head to Airport.

Prepare for your departure, allowing plenty of time to reach the airport for your flight.
CURRENCY30, 1 hour
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