Comprehensive 16-Day Japan Winter Itinerary: Mt. Fuji, Atami, Nikko, Izu & More

Day 1: Arrival and Tokyo Intro

Tokyo, Japan on December 23, 2024

3:00pm

Arrival at Tokyo Narita or Haneda Airport

Settle into your accommodation in central Tokyo; choose a location like Shinjuku or Shibuya for convenient transit options to your planned destinations.
JPY0, 1h0m

5:00pm

Evening Stroll in Shinjuku

Explore the vibrant nightlife and neon-lit streets of Shinjuku; visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for free panoramic views of Tokyo at night.
JPY0, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Omoide Yokocho

Enjoy traditional Japanese izakaya fare in this charming alley known for yakitori and local drinks, perfect for an authentic Tokyo dining experience.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Tokyo Highlights

Tokyo, Japan on December 24, 2024

8:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Sample fresh sushi and Japanese street snacks in this lively market, which operates early and is ideal for food lovers.
JPY1500, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo's oldest temple and the surrounding traditional shopping street, Nakamise-dori, offering souvenirs and snacks. Open daily from 6:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY0, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Asakusa Kagetsudo

Try their famous melonpan, a sweet baked bun, and other casual Japanese treats.
JPY700, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Ueno Park and Museums

Visit the Tokyo National Museum or the Ueno Zoo nestled within the scenic park. Museums generally open from 9:30am to 5:00pm.
JPY620 for National Museum, 3h0m

5:00pm

Evening in Akihabara

Discover Tokyo's tech and anime hub, with numerous shops and arcades to explore before dinner.
JPY0, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ichiran Ramen

Experience a private booth ramen dining which is iconic to Japan and opens until late.
JPY1000, 1h0m
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Day 3: Nikko Day Trip

Nikko, Japan on December 25, 2024

7:00am

Travel to Nikko

Take the JR train from Tokyo to Nikko, approx 2 hours; start early for maximum exploration time.
JPY3000 (one way with JR pass), 2h0m

9:30am

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore the lavishly decorated UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for the 'See No Evil, Speak No Evil, Hear No Evil' monkeys. Open 8:00am-5:00pm.
JPY1300, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Enjoy traditional Japanese dishes like yuba and soba in a cozy atmosphere near the shrine.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji

Take a local bus to these natural landmarks; admire winter scenery and picturesque views. Facilities open until 4:00pm.
JPY570 for bus, 3h0m

4:30pm

Return to Tokyo

Take train back to Tokyo to rest for the next day.
JPY3000, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner near hotel

Choose a local izakaya close to your stay in Tokyo for a relaxed meal after a day of travel.
JPY2500, 1h0m
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Day 4: Mount Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi

Fujikawaguchiko, Japan on December 26, 2024

7:00am

Travel to Kawaguchiko

From Tokyo Shinjuku Station, take the Limited Express train or highway bus to Kawaguchiko for approximately 2 hours.
JPY2000-2500, 2h0m

9:30am

Visit Chureito Pagoda

Climb to this iconic spot for classic Mt. Fuji views with the pagoda in the foreground; accessible year-round.
JPY0, 1h0m

11:00am

Explore Lake Kawaguchi

Walk or rent a bike around the lake to enjoy stunning views of Mount Fuji and winter landscapes.
JPY1500 for bike rental, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Hoto Fudo

Savor Hoto noodles, a regional specialty served hot and perfect for winter days.
JPY1200, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Itchiku Kubota Art Museum

Enjoy exquisite kimono textile art and beautiful gardens with Mt. Fuji views. Open 9:00am-5:00pm, closed Wednesdays.
JPY1100, 1h30m

5:00pm

Check in to Ryokan with Onsen

Relax in a traditional ryokan featuring hot spring baths with views of Mount Fuji for an authentic Japanese winter experience.
JPY15000+, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Ryokan

Enjoy a kaiseki dinner included with your ryokan stay showcasing seasonal regional ingredients.
Included, 1h30m
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Day 5: Izu Peninsula Adventure

Izu, Japan on December 27, 2024

8:30am

Travel to Izu

Take train south from Kawaguchiko via Mishima station to Izu Peninsula area, about 3.5 hours travel.
JPY3500, 3h30m

12:30pm

Lunch in Shuzenji

Enjoy soba noodles or tempura at a local restaurant in this charming hot spring town.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Shuzenji Temple and Bamboo Forest

Explore this peaceful historic area with gardens and bamboo pathway, open year-round.
JPY0, 2h0m

4:00pm

Relax in Izu Onsen

Book an onsen bath at a local hot spring ryokan for a luxurious experience immersed in nature.
JPY2000-5000, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ryokan or local Izakaya

Taste fresh seafood and local specialties in a cozy setting.
JPY3000, 1h30m
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Day 6: Atami Relaxation and Sightseeing

Atami, Japan on December 28, 2024

9:00am

Travel to Atami

Short train ride from Izu: approx 45 minutes to 1 hour to Atami, a seaside onsen town.
JPY1000, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Atami Castle

Explore the observation tower museum with panoramic views of Sagami Bay. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
JPY900, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Wakaba Sushi

Enjoy fresh sushi in this highly rated local spot near Atami station.
JPY2000, 1h0m

1:30pm

Atami Plum Garden

Visit the plum blossom garden which can be stunning in late December and early January. Open 9:00am-4:30pm.
JPY300, 1h0m

3:00pm

Onsen Bath at a Public Hot Spring

Relax in Atami's famous public onsen like 'Atami Yugawara Onsen' or hotel facilities.
JPY1000-1500, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at local seafood restaurant

Try grilled fish, shellfish and other local catches from Sagami Bay.
JPY3000, 1h30m
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Day 7: Return to Tokyo & Shopping

Tokyo, Japan on December 29, 2024

9:00am

Travel from Atami to Tokyo

Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen or express train back to Tokyo (approx 50-70 min).
JPY4000, 1h0m

10:30am

Brunch at Tsuta Ramen (Michelin-Star Ramen)

Try Tokyo’s first Michelin-star ramen, known for its refined flavors; open 11:00am-3:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

12:00pm

Shopping in Ginza

Explore upscale department stores and boutiques; great for holiday shopping and souvenirs.
Free to browse, 3h0m

3:30pm

Visit teamLab Planets Tokyo

Enjoy immersive digital art installations, open 10:00am-7:00pm. Pre-book tickets recommended.
JPY3200, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Sushi Dai (Toyosu Market Area)

Experience premium sushi dinner close to the famous seafood market; arrives we recommend an early evening reservation.
JPY8000, 1h30m
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Day 8: Day Trip to Kamakura

Kamakura, Japan on December 30, 2024

8:00am

Travel to Kamakura

Train from Tokyo to Kamakura takes approx 1 hour; start early to explore classic temples and shrines.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

See the Great Buddha (Daibutsu)

Visit one of Japan’s most famous giant bronze Buddha statues; open 8:00am-5:30pm.
JPY200, 1h0m

10:45am

Explore Hase-dera Temple

Known for its beautiful gardens and views over the ocean, open 8:00am-5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at local café

Try Kamakura-style curry or fresh seafood dishes in town.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Walk Komachi Street

Stroll down this bustling shopping street filled with souvenirs, sweets, and snacks.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Train ride back to Tokyo for evening relaxation.
JPY1000, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Afuri Ramen

Enjoy yuzu-flavored ramen, a unique citrus twist, popular in Tokyo.
JPY1200, 1h0m
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Day 9: Tokyo New Year's Eve

Tokyo, Japan on December 31, 2024

9:00am

Breakfast at local café

A relaxed start with Japanese style coffee and pastries around your hotel.
JPY1000, 1h0m

10:30am

Meiji Shrine Visit

Experience a spiritual side of Tokyo with a stroll through this Shinto shrine, often decorated beautifully during New Year season. Shrine open all day.
JPY0, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at nearby Harajuku café

Sample trendy Japanese fusion dishes in the fashionable Takeshita Street area.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Shopping and exploration in Harajuku & Omotesando

Browse quirky fashion boutiques and flagship stores.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Enjoy lively atmosphere and traditional Japanese cuisine in the restaurant known to inspire Kill Bill movie scenes.
JPY3500, 2h0m

9:30pm

New Year's Eve at Zojo-ji Temple or Shibuya Crossing

Join thousands for countdown at one of these iconic spots; prepare for crowds, but an unforgettable experience.
Free, Late night
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Day 10: New Year's Day Traditions

Tokyo, Japan on January 1, 2025

9:00am

Hatsumode at Senso-ji Temple

Participate in Japan's first shrine visit of the year, an important cultural experience. Expect large crowds; temple open all day.
JPY0, 2h0m

11:30am

Lunch with osechi ryori

Try traditional New Year’s dishes at a restaurant or hotel specializing in osechi, symbolizing good fortune.
JPY3000, 1h0m

1:00pm

Stroll at Imperial Palace East Gardens

Enjoy quiet paths and winter gardens inside the Imperial grounds, open 9:00am-4:30pm.
JPY0, 2h0m

3:30pm

Visit Roppongi Hills and Mori Art Museum

View contemporary art and city skyline from observation decks; museum open 10:00am-10:00pm.
JPY1800, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Robata or Japanese BBQ

Celebrate New Year’s Day with delicious grilled dishes in a relaxing setting.
JPY3500, 1h30m
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Day 11: Explore Yokohama

Yokohama, Japan on January 2, 2025

8:30am

Travel to Yokohama

Short train ride from Tokyo (30 minutes), perfect for a day trip to this vibrant port city.
JPY500, 30m

9:30am

Visit Yokohama Chinatown

One of the largest Chinatowns in the world, offering great food and shopping; best enjoyed during daytime.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Yokohama Cup Noodles Museum

Interactive museum to design your own instant noodle cup, a fun and unique experience for all ages. Open 10:00am-6:00pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Chinatown

Enjoy authentic Chinese dim sum or ramen.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Walk along Yokohama Bay Area and Minato Mirai

Enjoy a scenic waterfront promenade with ferris wheel and shopping malls.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Train back to Tokyo for final days in the city.
JPY500, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ramen Street in Tokyo Station

Choose from several famous ramen shops located conveniently in the station for diverse flavors.
JPY1200, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Day in Odaiba

Tokyo, Japan on January 3, 2025

9:00am

Travel to Odaiba

Take the Yurikamome Line from Shimbashi for scenic ride on bridge over Tokyo Bay.
JPY320, 30m

10:00am

TeamLab Planets or Borderless Museum

If not visited, explore immersive digital art exhibits that captivate all senses; open 10:00am-7:00pm.
JPY3200, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza

Wide variety of dining options from Japanese curry to international cuisine.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Odaiba Seaside Park and Statue of Liberty Replica

Relax during a winter stroll with great views of Rainbow Bridge and city skyline.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore Palette Town and Venus Fort

Shopping and entertainment centers styled with European architecture, open until evening.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Sushi no Midori

Widely regarded as one of the best conveyor-belt sushi places with fresh, affordable sushi.
JPY2000, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Historic Kamakura Again or Relax Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on January 4, 2025

9:00am

Optional repeat trip to Kamakura or day at leisure in Tokyo

Explore places missed earlier or stroll neighborhoods like Daikanyama, Nakameguro, or visit new temples/shrines.
Varies, Full day

12:00pm

Lunch at Daikanyama T-Site

Trendy café and bookstore complex with great atmosphere and food options.
JPY1500, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Tempura Kondo

Splurge on renowned tempura restaurant with delicate and expertly fried items; booking essential.
JPY10000, 1h30m
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Day 14: Day Trip to Hakone

Hakone, Japan on January 5, 2025

8:00am

Travel to Hakone

Approx 1.5 hours by Romancecar train from Shinjuku through scenic route.
JPY2000, 1h30m

9:30am

Hakone Open Air Museum

Enjoy outdoor sculptures and art exhibitions with mountain views; open from 9:00am-5:00pm.
JPY1600, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at museum café

Light lunch with art inspired décor and views.
JPY1200, 1h0m

1:30pm

Cruise on Lake Ashi

Take a scenic boat cruise for views of Mt. Fuji and Hakone Shrine. Cruises operate from 9:30am-4:30pm.
JPY1000, 1h0m

3:00pm

Hakone Shrine Visit

Quiet lakeside shrine with iconic torii gate in water, perfect for winter photography.
JPY0, 1h0m

5:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Travel back to Tokyo for final nights.
JPY2000, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at hotel or local sushi bar

Relax with fresh sushi or Japanese cuisine close to your accommodation.
JPY3000, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 15: Last Tokyo Day

Tokyo, Japan on January 6, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at café in Shimokitazawa

Explore this hip neighborhood with vintage shops and independent cafés.
JPY1000, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Nezu Museum

Discover traditional Japanese and East Asian art in a peaceful garden setting. Open 10:00am-5:00pm, closed Mondays.
JPY1000, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Rigoletto Bar and Grill Azabu Juban

Enjoy international flavors in a popular Tokyo dining spot near Roppongi.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Final souvenir shopping at Nakamise Street or department stores

Pick up last-minute gifts and souvenirs from well-known shopping areas.
Varies, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at hotel or visit a local onsen spa

Unwind in a comfortable onsen near Tokyo before final dinner.
JPY1000-2000, 2h0m

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu or similar

Enjoy your last evening with atmospheric dining featuring classic Japanese dishes.
JPY4000, 2h0m
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Day 16: Departure Day

Tokyo, Japan on January 7, 2025

7:00am

Pack and check out

Prepare for airport transfer, ensuring all belongings and souvenirs are secured.
JPY0, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel to Narita or Haneda Airport

Take airport limousine bus, train, or taxi depending on time and luggage, aiming to arrive 2-3 hours before flight.
JPY3000-4000, 1-2h0m
View Hotel Availability