Two-Week Japan Adventure: Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, and Koyasan with Imperial Hotel Stay

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Tokyo, Japan on June 2, 2025

3:00pm

Check-in at Imperial Hotel Tokyo

Settle into the luxurious Imperial Hotel located centrally in Tokyo, known for excellent service and traditional elegance. Booking in early June should yield better pricing than peak cherry blossom season.
JPY30000, 0h30m

5:30pm

Stroll around Ginza

Explore Tokyo's most famous shopping district, known for upscale boutiques, traditional crafts, and vibrant street scenes in the evening.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Sushi Kanesaka Ginza

Enjoy an exquisite sushi meal at this Michelin-starred restaurant, renowned for fresh seafood and traditional Edo-style preparation.
JPY15000, 1h30m

Day 2: Tokyo Sightseeing

Tokyo, Japan on June 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Imperial Hotel’s Café Paul Bocuse

Start your day with a French-style breakfast in an elegant setting inside the hotel.
JPY3000, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit the Meiji Shrine

Explore this famous Shinto shrine surrounded by a serene forested area, offering insight into Japan's spiritual heritage.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Harajuku and Omotesando walk

Experience quirky fashion and architectural highlights in these adjoining neighborhoods.
Free, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Afuri Harajuku

Try yuzu-flavored ramen renowned for its light broth and unique citrus aroma.
JPY1200, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue

Visit one of the world’s busiest pedestrian crossings and the famous loyal dog statue nearby.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Dine in the restaurant that inspired Kill Bill's iconic fight scene, featuring traditional Japanese izakaya dishes.
JPY4000, 1h30m

Day 3: Tokyo Museums and Parks

Tokyo, Japan on June 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Muji Café Ginza

Enjoy simple, wholesome Japanese breakfast options in the minimalist Muji atmosphere.
JPY1500, 1h0m

9:30am

Tokyo National Museum

Explore Japan’s oldest museum showcasing art and archaeological artifacts from Japan and other Asian countries. Open 9:30am-5:00pm.
JPY1000, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Ueno Park’s Innsyoutei

Experience traditional Japanese cuisine inside the scenic Ueno Park.
JPY3000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Walk in Ueno Park and visit Shinobazu Pond

Enjoy peaceful gardens and serene ponds in the heart of Tokyo, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to hotel and rest

Relax and prepare for an early departure to Hakone the next day.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Imperial Hotel’s French Restaurant, Pierre

Indulge in a refined French dining experience to end your Tokyo stay on a high note.
JPY12000, 1h30m

Day 4: Travel to Hakone

Hakone, Japan on June 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at the Imperial Hotel before departure.
JPY3000, 1h0m

9:30am

Travel to Hakone by Romancecar train

Take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku station to Hakone-Yumoto, approximately 90 minutes with scenic views.
JPY2200, 1h30m

11:15am

Check-in at Hakone Ryokan / Onsen

Experience traditional ryokan accommodation with natural hot spring baths to relax after travel.
JPY20000, 0h45m

1:00pm

Lunch at Tamura Ginkatsutei

Try their famous tofu katsu, a unique and delicious specialty of Hakone.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Lake Ashi Sightseeing Cruise

Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on Lake Ashi with views of Mt. Fuji weather permitting. Cruise operates 9:00am-5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Hakone Shrine

Explore this lakeside shrine with a beautiful torii gate on the water.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at ryokan

Enjoy a multi-course kaiseki dinner prepared with local seasonal ingredients.
Included, 2h0m

Day 5: Hakone Exploration

Hakone, Japan on June 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Ryokan

Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast included with your ryokan stay.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Owakudani Valley

See volcanic activity and try the famous black eggs boiled in hot springs. Open 9:00am-5:00pm, subject to volcanic activity closures.
JPY500, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Bakery & Table Hakone

Casual lunch with fresh bakery items and views over Lake Ashi.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Hakone Open Air Museum

Explore an impressive outdoor sculpture park exhibiting modern art set against mountainous landscapes. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
JPY1600, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Ryokan and relax in Onsen

Soak in soothing hot spring baths to unwind after an active day.
Included, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at ryokan

Enjoy another exquisite kaiseki-style dinner highlighting seasonal local ingredients.
Included, 2h0m

Day 6: Travel to Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on June 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at ryokan

Traditional Japanese breakfast to start your journey early.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Travel to Kyoto by Shinkansen

Take the bullet train from Odawara station to Kyoto station, approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.
JPY13000, 2h10m

12:00pm

Check-in at Kyoto Muji Hotel

Experience minimalist comfort and strategic location for sightseeing in historic Kyoto.
JPY15000, 0h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Explore Kyoto’s famous food market and sample various local delicacies.
JPY1200, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its wooden stage offering panoramic views over Kyoto. Open 6:00am-6:00pm.
JPY400, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa

Enjoy traditional Kyoto cuisine including seasonal vegetables and tofu specialties in the historic Gion district.
JPY3500, 1h30m

Day 7: Kyoto Temples

Kyoto, Japan on June 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Muji Café Kyoto

Light and healthy breakfast featuring natural ingredients in a wooden minimalist setting.
JPY1500, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Famous for thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the mountain; open 24 hours.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Tofukuji Temple

Explore one of Kyoto’s five great Zen temples known for its gardens and tranquil atmosphere. Open 9:00am-4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Soba specialty restaurant Honke Owariya

Taste Kyoto’s oldest soba noodle house, established in 1465.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Gion District

Walk through this traditional geisha district with preserved wooden machiya houses.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to hotel and rest

Free time to relax or explore nearby area on your own.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Kaiseki Restaurant Gion Nanba

Experience a refined multi-course kaiseki dinner showcasing seasonal Kyoto cuisine.
JPY12000, 2h0m

Day 8: Arashiyama & Bamboo Grove

Kyoto, Japan on June 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Simple breakfast included or at Muji café for a fresh start.
JPY1500, 1h0m

9:00am

Travel to Arashiyama

Short train ride to Arashiyama district known for natural beauty and cultural sites.
JPY300, 1h0m

10:00am

Bamboo Grove Walk

Walk through the iconic bamboo forest creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

11:30am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

UNESCO heritage temple with stunning gardens reflecting seasonal beauty. Open 8:30am-5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Enjoy tofu specialty cuisine with views over the Katsura River.
JPY4000, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Monkey Park Iwatayama

Climb up to see wild Japanese macaques with panoramic views of Kyoto. Open 9:00am-4:00pm.
JPY550, 2h0m

5:30pm

Return to Kyoto City

Rest before dinner after a full day of exploration.
JPY300, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Explore this lively dining area with many traditional and modern dining options.
JPY3500, 1h30m

Day 9: Cultural & Historical Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on June 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Start day with a light breakfast at the Muji Hotel or nearby café.
JPY1500, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Nijo Castle

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring beautiful gardens and historic architecture. Open 8:45am-5:00pm.
JPY1000, 2h0m

11:30am

Explore Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Take a relaxed stroll through the extensive gardens surrounding the former imperial residence.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Try hearty udon dishes in a charming traditional setting near Kodai-ji temple.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Kodai-ji Temple

Zen temple with peaceful gardens and tea houses. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
JPY600, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Philosopher's Path

Walk the scenic canal-side path lined with cherry trees and temples.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Return to hotel and rest

Evening at leisure.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Kyoto Gogyo

Enjoy burnt miso ramen, a local specialty with deep umami flavors.
JPY1500, 1h0m

Day 10: Travel to Koyasan

Koyasan, Japan on June 11, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

A simple breakfast to fuel your travel day.
JPY1500, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel to Koyasan

Take train and cable car from Kyoto to Koyasan, approximately 3 hours journey through scenic mountain areas.
JPY4000, 3h0m

11:30am

Check-in at Koyasan Shukubo Temple Lodging

Stay overnight in a Buddhist temple lodging to experience a peaceful spiritual retreat.
JPY15000, 0h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Koyasan cafes

Try simple vegetarian Shojin Ryori cuisine served at temple food venues.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Okunoin Cemetery and Mausoleum

Explore Japan’s largest and most sacred cemetery. Quiet and stoic atmosphere with ancient cedar trees.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Meditation session at lodging

Participate in a calming meditation or prayer, often offered to guests at temple lodgings.
Included, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at temple lodging

Enjoy a traditional vegetarian Buddhist meal (Shojin Ryori) prepared with seasonal ingredients.
Included, 1h30m

Day 11: Koyasan Temples and Departure

Koyasan, Japan on June 12, 2025

6:00am

Morning Buddhist Ceremony

Witness or participate in early morning chanting ceremony held by resident monks.
Free, 1h0m

7:30am

Breakfast at temple lodging

Simple Buddhist vegetarian breakfast provided.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Kongobu-ji Temple

Central temple of Koyasan with beautiful sliding-door paintings and rock gardens. Open 8:30am-5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h0m

10:30am

Explore Danjo Garan complex

Historic temple complex featuring pagodas and main halls with rich history.
Tax included in Kongobu-ji ticket, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at local café

Light meal before departure; many options offering vegetarian and local cuisine.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Travel back to Tokyo

Return trip via train and bullet train; approximately 4.5 hours to central Tokyo.
JPY15000, 4h30m

6:00pm

Check-in at Imperial Hotel Tokyo or Muji Hotel (depending on availability and preference)

Late check-in for last night in Tokyo. Imperial Hotel preferred for luxury, Muji for minimalist comfort.
JPY25000, 0h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Tokyo Station Ramen Street

Casual dinner sampling various famous ramen shops conveniently located in Tokyo Station.
JPY1200, 1h0m

Day 12: Final Tokyo Day

Tokyo, Japan on June 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local café

Enjoy your final Japanese breakfast either at the hotel or nearby café depending on your preference.
JPY3000, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Tokyo Skytree

Ascend to one of the tallest towers in the world for spectacular panoramic views. Open 8:00am-10:00pm.
JPY2100, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Solamachi shopping complex

Large shopping and dining area beneath Skytree offering numerous Japanese cuisine options.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple

Visit Tokyo’s oldest temple and browse Nakamise shopping street for souvenirs. Open 6:00am-5:00pm.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Return to hotel and pack

Leisure time to prepare for departure next day.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Farewell dinner at Teppanyaki Ten

Enjoy a memorable teppanyaki dinner with expertly prepared Japanese beef and fresh seafood near your hotel.
JPY10000, 2h0m

Day 13: Departure Day

Tokyo, Japan on June 14, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Final breakfast in Tokyo, light and convenient depending on flight time.
JPY2000, 1h0m

9:00am

Check-out and transfer to airport

Use limousine bus or train to Narita or Haneda Airport for flight home.
JPY3000, 1h30m