14-Day Cultural and Natural Exploration of Japan for Norwegian Couples

Day 1: Departure to Tokyo

Stavanger, Norway on September 20, 2026

10:00AM

Depart from Stavanger

Take a flight from Stavanger to Oslo and then connect to a direct flight to Tokyo Narita International Airport. The most recommended airline for business class is SAS for the first leg, and All Nippon Airways (ANA) for the second leg due to their excellent service and comfort.
CURRENCY9000, Travel takes approximately 14 hours including layover

Day 2: Explore Vibrant Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on September 21, 2026

9:00AM

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Start your day with fresh sushi and traditional Japanese breakfast options at the iconic Tsukiji Outer Market, known for its high-quality seafood.
CURRENCY2000, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo's oldest temple, Senso-ji in Asakusa. Don't miss the vibrant Nakamise Street leading to the temple, filled with charming shops.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka

Enjoy a delicious and fun kaiten sushi experience at Uobei, where you can order via a touchscreen and receive your food on a conveyor belt.
CURRENCY1500, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Stroll through Ueno Park

Relax and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and museums in Ueno Park, perfect for a leisurely walk amongst nature.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Experience traditional Japanese dining in a unique atmosphere. This is the restaurant that inspired the famous fight scene in Kill Bill.
CURRENCY3500, 2 hours

Day 3: Tokyo Sightseeing

Tokyo, Japan on September 22, 2026

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Tokyo Station Hotel

Enjoy a full English breakfast inside the beautifully restored Tokyo Station Hotel, renowned for its elegance and gourmet experience.
CURRENCY3000, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Imperial Palace

Take a guided tour of the Imperial Palace and its serene gardens, a perfect spot for leisurely walks and appreciating history.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Harajuku Gyoza Lou

Devour some of the best gyoza in the vibrant Harajuku district, a must-try for a taste of local street food.
CURRENCY1200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko statue

Experience the famous Shibuya Crossing and visit the Hachiko statue, an emblem of loyalty and devotion.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Early Dinner at Narisawa

Savour innovative dishes crafted from seasonal ingredients at this renowned Michelin-starred restaurant.
CURRENCY8000, 2 hours

Day 4: Travel to Takayama

Takayama, Japan on September 23, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Café

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast experience before departing Tokyo with a mix of rice, fish, and pickled vegetables.
CURRENCY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Takayama

Take a scenic train ride (approximately 4 hours) through beautiful mountain landscapes to reach Takayama.
CURRENCY5000, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at a Local Izakaya

Experience the traditional local cuisine at one of Takayama’s izakayas, serving seasonal dishes.
CURRENCY2500, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Sanmachi Suji

Stroll through this well-preserved historic district with traditional wooden houses and shops for local crafts.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Heianraku

Savour local Hida beef and explore the culinary delights of Takayama in a charming setting.
CURRENCY3500, 2 hours

Day 5: Day Trip to Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go, Japan on September 24, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading to Shirakawa-go.
CURRENCY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bus to Shirakawa-go

Catch a bus to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go (approximately 1 hour). Explore the iconic Gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
CURRENCY3000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Enjoy local mountain cuisine at one of the restaurants in Shirakawa-go, showcasing the region's fresh produce.
CURRENCY2000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Shirakawa-go

Take time to explore the traditional village and its beautiful landscapes. Ideal for walking and photography.
CURRENCY0, 3 hours

5:30PM

Return to Takayama

Take the bus back to Takayama for a relaxing evening.
CURRENCY3000, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Ajikura Tengoku

Savour grilled dishes made with local ingredients, including Hida beef, in this welcoming establishment.
CURRENCY4000, 2 hours

Day 6: Travel to Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on September 25, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Bakery

Enjoy freshly baked goods at a local bakery before heading to Kyoto.
CURRENCY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Kyoto

Take the Limited Express Train from Takayama to Kyoto (approximately 2.5 hours).
CURRENCY4500, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample a variety of traditional Kyoto foods at this bustling food market, perfect for foodies.
CURRENCY2500, 2 hours

2:00PM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at the stunning Golden Pavilion surrounded by serene gardens, a highlight of Kyoto.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Stroll through the enchanting bamboo groves of Arashiyama for a truly magical experience.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Indulge in an authentic Kaiseki dinner in the historic Gion area of Kyoto.
CURRENCY6000, 2 hours

Day 7: Explore Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on September 26, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at your hotel to kickstart your day.
CURRENCY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha

Explore the famous red torii gates at Fushimi Inari, an iconic photo spot and cultural experience.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Katsu Yoshida

Savour a delicious tonkatsu at a popular local spot near Fushimi Inari.
CURRENCY2000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Kiyomizu-dera

Stroll to Kiyomizu-dera, a historic temple with stunning views over Kyoto, and the surrounding cherry blossoms.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Gion District

Discover traditional wooden machiya houses and potentially spot a Geisha in the historic Gion District.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Kikunoi

Experience seasonally inspired haute cuisine at this Michelin-starred restaurant, a true culinary treat.
CURRENCY12000, 2 hours

Day 8: Visit Nara from Kyoto

Nara, Japan on September 27, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before departing for Nara for the day.
CURRENCY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Nara

Take a short train ride (approximately 1 hour) to Nara, home to fantastic temples and friendly deer.
CURRENCY2000, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Explore this impressive temple housing a gigantic Buddha statue, a must-see when in Nara.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Maguro Koya

Indulge in fresh tuna dishes at a local favourite restaurant in Nara.
CURRENCY2500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll through Nara Park

Wander through the beautiful Nara Park where friendly deer roam freely.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Return to Kyoto

Take the train back to Kyoto for dinner.
CURRENCY2000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Mame & Shiba

Savour a range of historically inspired small plates and dishes in a unique setting.
CURRENCY5000, 2 hours

Day 9: Travel to Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan on September 28, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a pleasant breakfast at your hotel before your journey to Hiroshima.
CURRENCY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Hiroshima

Take the Shinkansen bullet train (approximately 2 hours) to Hiroshima.
CURRENCY5000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Okonomi-mura

Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savoury pancake, at this famous food market.
CURRENCY2000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Pay your respects and learn about the history of Hiroshima at this significant site.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Hiroshima Castle

Discover Hiroshima Castle and its beautiful gardens, reflecting on the rich history of the area.
CURRENCY600, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ebisutei

Savour local seafood dishes prepared with fresh ingredients at this well-reviewed restaurant.
CURRENCY3500, 2 hours

Day 10: Day Trip to Miyajima Island

Miyajima, Japan on September 29, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for the day at your hotel before heading out to explore.
CURRENCY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ferry to Miyajima Island

Take the ferry to Miyajima Island (approximately 1 hour), famous for its floating torii gate.
CURRENCY2000, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Itsukushima Shrine

Explore the extraordinary Itsukushima Shrine, renowned for its scenic beauty and cultural significance.
CURRENCY600, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Taste delicious anago (grilled eel) at one of the local shops on the island.
CURRENCY3000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Mount Misen

Hike to Mount Misen for breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea. Suitable for leisurely walkers.
CURRENCY0, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Ferry back to Hiroshima

Take the ferry back to Hiroshima for dinner and a restful evening.
CURRENCY2000, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Sushitei

Savour exquisite sushi prepared with fresh catch and carefully selected fish.
CURRENCY8000, 2 hours

Day 11: Travel to Osaka

Osaka, Japan on September 30, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before departing for Osaka.
CURRENCY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Osaka

Take the train to Osaka (approximately 1 hour).
CURRENCY1500, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore Osaka Castle and its beautiful park, providing insight into Japan's history.
CURRENCY600, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Savour street food delights like takoyaki and okonomiyaki in Osaka's lively Dotonbori area.
CURRENCY3000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll through Namba Parks

Enjoy shopping and nature at this unique shopping complex with greenery throughout.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Matsusaka Beef

Indulge in premium Matsusaka beef dishes in one of Osaka’s top-rated restaurants.
CURRENCY10000, 2 hours

Day 12: Free Day in Osaka

Osaka, Japan on October 1, 2026

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before exploring Osaka.
CURRENCY2000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Universal Studios Japan

Spend a fun day at Universal Studios Japan, enjoying various attractions create wonderful memories.
CURRENCY8000, 6 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Kani Doraku

Enjoy a famous crab meal in a vibrant setting at this must-visit restaurant in Dotonbori.
CURRENCY6000, 2 hours

Day 13: Cultural Day in Osaka

Osaka, Japan on October 2, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the day with a hearty breakfast to prepare for a day filled with culture.
CURRENCY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Explore one of Japan's oldest shrines featuring traditional architecture and serene gardens.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Culinary Class Experience

Engage in a cooking class where you can learn to make your own sushi or ramen under a qualified chef.
CURRENCY5000, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Ramen Shop

Enjoy your own handmade ramen for lunch after your culinary experience.
CURRENCY1500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll through Osaka's Kuromon Market

Experience a local market filled with fresh produce and specialty foods. Perfect for walking!
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sushiro

Savour a variety of sushi served in conveyor belt style, perfect for casual dining.
CURRENCY3000, 1.5 hours

Day 14: Departure to Stavanger

Osaka, Japan on October 3, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel while reflecting on your journey in Japan.
CURRENCY2000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Travel to Kansai International Airport

Depart for Kansai International Airport to catch your business flight back to Stavanger.
CURRENCY1500, 1 hour

12:00PM

Depart for Stavanger

Board your flight back home after a wonderful 14 days in Japan with cherished memories.
CURRENCY9000, Travel takes approximately 14 hours including layover