16-Day Japan Itinerary for First-Time Travelers

Day 1: Explore Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on March 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Convenience Store (Conbini)

Start your day with traditional Japanese onigiri and canned coffee from a local convenience store.
JPY500, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Hie Shrine

Visit this serene Shinto shrine known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Meiji Jingu Shrine

Discover another stunning shrine nestled in a forested area, providing a tranquil escape from the city.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Yoyogi Park

Take a leisurely stroll or enjoy a picnic amidst the greenery.
Free, 1 hour

1:10PM

Harajuku Takeshita Street

Indulge in local crepes and explore unique shops bursting with youth culture.
JPY800, 50 minutes

1:30PM

Lunch at Gyukatsu Motomura (Harajuku Branch)

Savour their signature gyukatsu, deep-fried beef cutlet served with rice and special sauce.
JPY1,500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building's Observation Deck

Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Tokyo from this free observation deck.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shinjuku Game World (optional)

Experience a variety of games and attractions in one of Tokyo's largest gaming centres.
JPY1,000, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Omoide Yokocho

Choose from numerous small izakayas offering yakitori and other local delicacies.
JPY1,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Culinary Delights

Tokyo, Japan on March 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Explore the market and try fresh sushi for breakfast from one of the vendors.
JPY1,000, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Imperial Palace

Stroll through the beautiful East Gardens of the Imperial Palace.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Akihabara

Dive into the world of anime and electronics in this vibrant district.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sometarō Okonomiyaki Restaurant

Create your own okonomiyaki in this lively atmosphere.
JPY1,200, 1 hour

2:30PM

Uniqlo Ginza

Shop at the flagship store of this popular Japan-based clothing retailer.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Nissan Crossing

Admire the latest car models and technology from Nissan.
Free, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Teamlab Planets

Immerse yourself in this stunning digital art exhibition. Note: Book in advance for entry.
JPY3,200, 2.5 hours

9:00PM

Tokyo Tower (optional)

Visit at night to see the tower illuminated. Enjoy views of the Tokyo skyline.
JPY1,200, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Shibuya Adventures

Tokyo, Japan on March 26, 2025

9:30AM

Breakfast at Mega Don Quijote

Grab delicious breakfast options while shopping at this famous discount store.
JPY700, 1 hour

11:00AM

Mandarake

Explore the largest manga shop in Japan, a must-see for any anime fan.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ramen Makotoya - Shibuya Center Gai

Delight in their rich, hearty ramen dishes that will warm you up.
JPY1,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shibuya Crossing

Experience the iconic scramble crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world.
Free, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Hachiko Memorial

Visit the famous statue of the loyal dog, symbol of loyalty and devotion.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Shibuya Sky

Take in stunning views of Tokyo before and after sunset from this observation deck.
JPY2,000, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Sushi-Dokoro Shigeru

Enjoy an intimate omakase experience with only seven seats, perfect for sushi lovers.
JPY5,000, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Karaoke or Bar

End your night with a fun karaoke session or a drink at a local bar.
Varies, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Drive to Hakone

Hakone, Japan on March 27, 2025

9:00AM

Drive to Enoshima

Enjoy a scenic drive to Enoshima, an island known for its beautiful views and sea breeze.
Varies, 1.5 hours

10:20AM

Breakfast at Uomi-Tei

Savour fresh seafood and traditional Japanese breakfast fare at this seaside restaurant.
JPY1,500, 1 hour

11:30AM

Drive to Hakone

Continue to Hakone and prepare for an exciting day of exploration.
Varies, 1 hour

1:00PM

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Marvel at this outdoor museum featuring artwork surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.
JPY1,600, 2 hours

3:30PM

Onsen Experience

Relax in the healing waters of an onsen and unwind from your travels.
JPY2,500, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hakone Yuba Cafe

Enjoy a unique meal featuring yuba (tofu skin) and other Japanese dishes.
JPY1,800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Hakone Exploration

Hakone, Japan on March 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Gotemba Premium Outlets

Shop for designer brands at discounted prices in this spacious outlet mall.
Free, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Gotemba Premium Outlets

Various dining options are available; try the burger place known for its happy hour.
JPY1,200, 1 hour

2:30PM

Return to Hakone

Enjoy the scenic views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscapes.
Free, 45 minutes

4:00PM

Take the Hakone Ropeway

Ride the ropeway for stunning views of the area, including Mount Fuji on a clear day.
JPY1,800, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kikunoi

Savour exquisite kaiseki dining, showcasing seasonal ingredients.
JPY8,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Mount Fuji Exploration

Mount Fuji, Japan on March 29, 2025

9:20AM

Depart from Hakone

Set off early to explore the majestic Mount Fuji region.
Varies, 1 hour

10:00AM

Breakfast at The Park Café

Enjoy fluffy pancakes and stunning views of Mount Fuji.
JPY1,200, 1 hour

11:30AM

Oshino Hakkai

Visit these beautiful clear ponds and enjoy the scenic views of Mount Fuji.
Free, 1.5-2 hours

1:30PM

Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine/Chureito Pagoda

A beautiful viewpoint especially if weather permits, offering great photo opportunities.
Free, 1-1.5 hours

3:00PM

Honcho Street in Fujiyoshida

Experience a quaint street with shops selling local crafts, food, and souvenirs.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Kawaguchiko Station

Stop by Lawson for snacks and refreshments before heading to the lake.
JPY500, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Lake Kawaguchiko

Take a leisurely walk or a scenic boat ride on the lake while enjoying views of Mount Fuji.
JPY800, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan on March 30, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Local Cafe

Enjoy a classic Japanese breakfast before heading towards Nikko.
JPY800, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine/Chureito Pagoda

If skipped previously, visit for stunning views.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Travel to Nikko

Drive to Nikko while enjoying scenic views en route.
Varies, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Taste delicious yakitori and other Japanese dishes in a friendly atmosphere.
JPY1,000, 1 hour

3:30PM

Nikko National Park

Explore the breathtaking natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Return to Hakone

Drive back to Hakone for a relaxing evening.
Varies, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Relax and enjoy a variety of Japanese dishes in a local izakaya.
JPY1,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Drive to Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on March 31, 2025

9:00AM

Return Car in Tokyo

Return the rental car and enjoy a quick breakfast nearby.
Varies, 1 hour

10:30AM

Shinkansen to Kyoto

Take the fast train to Kyoto, experiencing the famed Shinkansen ride.
JPY14,000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Arrive in Kyoto

Check into your hotel and freshen up after the journey.
Varies, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Try various local street foods and delicacies in this lively market.
JPY1,500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit this stunning Zen Buddhist temple known for its beautiful golden exterior.
JPY400, 1 hour

5:00PM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Stroll through the magical bamboo forest and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Okonomiyaki Katsu

Experience making your own okonomiyaki in a fun atmosphere.
JPY1,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Discover Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on April 1, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Cafe

Start your day with matcha latte and pastries from a local cafe.
JPY800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Explore the famous shrine with thousands of torii gates that create a beautiful path.
Free, 1.5-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Yudofu Sagano

Enjoy the specialty of Kyoto - yudofu, a hot pot of tofu.
JPY1,800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Gion District

Take a leisurely walk in this historic district known for its traditional wooden machiya houses.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit this iconic temple, famous for its wooden stage overlooking the cherry blossoms.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Gion Owatari

Dine with a traditional kaiseki meal featuring seasonal vegetables and delicate flavours.
JPY6,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Cultural Kent

Kyoto, Japan on April 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional breakfast experience at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Nanzenji Temple

Visit this beautiful temple which features gardens and serene surroundings.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Philosopher's Path

Take a peaceful stroll along the canal lined with cherry blossoms.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Okubo Soba

Savour handmade soba noodles made fresh daily, a local specialty.
JPY1,000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Eikando Zenrin-ji Temple

Enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves and the peaceful gardens surrounding this temple.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Heian Shrine

Explore this expansive shrine with lovely gardens and a large torii gate.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Izakaya Shiki

Sample a variety of traditional dishes and enjoy the local atmosphere.
JPY2,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Travel to Osaka

Osaka, Japan on April 3, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before departing for Osaka.
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Shinkansen to Osaka

Take another comfortable ride on the Shinkansen to Osaka.
JPY4,500, 15 minutes

10:30AM

Arrival in Osaka

Check into your hotel and prepare for a day of exploration.
Varies, 1 hour

11:30AM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Try Osaka's specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki in this bustling area.
JPY1,500, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Osaka Castle

Visit the iconic castle and learn about its history while enjoying the beautiful park around it.
JPY600, 2 hours

3:30PM

Namba Parks

Explore this unique shopping complex that features a rooftop garden.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Zuboraya

Enjoy the famous fugu (pufferfish) dishes at this renowned restaurant.
JPY6,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Osaka Highlights

Osaka, Japan on April 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast before starting your day.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Universal Studios Japan

Spend a thrilling day at Theme Park enjoying rides and attractions.
JPY8,000, 7-8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Feast on Osaka’s famous kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) at this lively eatery.
JPY2,500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Cultural Day in Osaka

Osaka, Japan on April 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Café

Start your day with a delicious breakfast in a local café.
JPY800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shitennoji Temple

Visit one of Japan's oldest temples filled with historical significance.
JPY300, 1 hour

10:30AM

Osaka Museum of History

Learn about Osaka's fascinating history through interactive exhibits.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tsurutontan

Savour the delicious udon noodles at this popular udon restaurant.
JPY1,200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Tempozan Ferris Wheel

Enjoy stunning views of the harbor and city while riding this enormous Ferris wheel.
JPY800, 1 hour

3:30PM

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Explore one of the largest aquariums in the world and meet fascinating marine life.
JPY2,300, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M

Indulge in high-quality Matsusaka beef at this esteemed restaurant.
JPY6,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Hiroshima Day Trip

Hiroshima, Japan on April 6, 2025

7:00AM

Early Breakfast

Enjoy a quick breakfast at your hotel.
Included, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Shinkansen to Hiroshima

Travel to Hiroshima via Shinkansen to start your day trip.
JPY17,000, 2 hours

10:00AM

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Visit this emotional historical site dedicated to the victims of the bomb.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Lunch at Okonomimura

Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a delicious savoury pancake.
JPY1,200, 1 hour

1:00PM

Miyajima Island

Take a ferry to this magical island to see the iconic floating torii gate.
JPY1,800, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Return to Hiroshima

Take the ferry back to Hiroshima and prepare for departure.
JPY1,800, 1 hour

6:00PM

Shinkansen back to Osaka

Travel back to Osaka for the evening.
JPY17,000, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Dotonbori

Relax and enjoy street foods in this vibrant area.
JPY1,500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 15: Leisure in Osaka

Osaka, Japan on April 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy another delightful breakfast at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Shopping in Shinsaibashi

Shop for souvenirs and Japanese fashion in this popular shopping area.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Taste various street foods and fresh seafood from local vendors.
JPY1,500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Spa World

Relax and rejuvenate in the onsen and spa facilities available.
JPY2,000, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Fuku-chan

Relish a serving of local ramen crafted with fresh ingredients.
JPY900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 16: Return to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on April 8, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Osaka and prepare for departure.
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Shinkansen to Tokyo

Travel back to Tokyo via Shinkansen to conclude your trip.
JPY14,000, 3 hours

1:30PM

Last Lunch in Tokyo at Tsukiji Outer Market

Return for some final bites of fresh sushi and street food.
JPY1,000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Final Shopping in Shibuya

Grab any last-minute souvenirs or gifts before your departure.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Depart from Tokyo

Enjoy the memories of your Japanese adventure as you head to the airport.
Varies, Varies
View Hotel Availability