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17-Day Comprehensive Japan Exploration: From Tokyo to Kyoto and Beyond

Viewed by 107 travelers

Day 1: Tokyo Arrival

Tokyo, Japan on May 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Enjoy fresh sushi and traditional Japanese breakfast items at the Tsukiji Outer Market, a lively spot with many options open from early morning.
JPY2000, 1h30m

10:00am

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo's oldest temple, Senso-ji in Asakusa. It offers a glimpse into Japan's religious heritage and vibrant shopping street Nakamise Dori.
Free, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Asakusa Imahan

Enjoy sukiyaki, a traditional Japanese hot pot dish, at Asakusa Imahan, a restaurant open from 11:30am to 9pm.
JPY3500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Ueno Park and Museums

Visit Ueno Park, home to the Tokyo National Museum and Ueno Zoo, perfect for a cultural afternoon. Museums open typically 9:30am to 5pm.
JPY620 for museum, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Experience the iconic izakaya-style restaurant Gonpachi, famous for its lively atmosphere and traditional Japanese dishes, open until 11pm.
JPY4000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 2: Tokyo Modern & Traditional

Tokyo, Japan on May 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Sarabeth's Shinjuku

Start your day with Western and Japanese style breakfast at Sarabeth's, open from 7am, known for delicious pancakes and eggs benedict.
JPY2500, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Meiji Shrine

Discover the serene Meiji Shrine surrounded by forested grounds in Shibuya. Entry is free and grounds are open from sunrise to sunset.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Explore Takeshita Street, Harajuku

Experience the youthful culture in Harajuku’s Takeshita Street with quirky shops and colorful street fashion.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Afuri Ramen

Enjoy yuzu-flavored ramen in a modern setting at Afuri, open 11:30am to 10pm, a perfect lunch stop in Harajuku.
JPY1200, 1h0m

3:00pm

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue

Visit the famous Shibuya Crossing and the nearby Hachiko Statue for iconic photo opportunities.
Free, 1h0m

4:30pm

Shopping & Coffee at Shibuya Scramble Square

Shop at this modern shopping complex with panoramic city views from the observation deck (open until 9pm).
JPY2000 for observation deck, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Uoshin Nogizaka

Dine at Uoshin Nogizaka, a highly regarded seafood izakaya open until 11pm, for fresh seasonal dishes.
JPY4500, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 3: Tokyo Cultural Museums

Tokyo, Japan on May 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Komeda’s Coffee

Enjoy a Japanese-style breakfast with toast and coffee at Komeda’s, a popular chain open from early morning.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:30am

Mori Art Museum

Visit the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi Hills, featuring contemporary art exhibitions. Open 10am to 10pm, closed Tuesdays.
JPY2000, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Roppongi Hills Mori Tower Food Court

Choose from multiple cuisines available at the food court with varied options and quick service.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Tokyo Tower Visit

Head to Tokyo Tower to enjoy city views and photo ops; open 9am-11pm.
JPY1200, 1h30m

3:30pm

Shopping at Ginza

Explore the upscale Ginza district with luxury shops, department stores, and galleries.
Free to browse, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Tempura Kondo

Indulge in exquisite tempura at Tempura Kondo, a renowned Michelin-starred restaurant open for dinner from 5pm.
JPY12000, 2h0m
Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan on May 8, 2025

7:00am

Train to Nikko

Take the JR or Tobu line to Nikko (approx 2 hours) for a day exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites.
JPY3000, 2h0m

9:30am

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore the lavishly decorated Toshogu Shrine, the largest and most famous in Nikko, open from 8am to 5pm.
JPY1300, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Enjoy casual traditional Japanese soba and charcoal-grilled items near the shrine, open 11am to 3pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji

Take a bus to Kegon Falls and scenic Lake Chuzenji, offering beautiful nature views, open all day.
JPY2100 for bus and entrance, 3h0m

5:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Travel back to Tokyo by train and rest at your hotel.
JPY3000, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ippudo Ramen

Enjoy a comforting bowl of ramen at the well-known Ippudo chain, open till 11pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m
Find Hotels in Nikko

Day 5: Travel to Nagoya

Nagoya, Japan on May 9, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a quick breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Bullet Train to Nagoya

Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagoya, approximately 1 hour 40 minutes.
JPY11000, 1h40m

11:00am

Visit Nagoya Castle

Explore Nagoya Castle with its reconstructed main keep and lovely gardens, typically open 9am to 4:30pm.
JPY500, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Yabaton

Try Nagoya's specialty miso katsu at Yabaton, a famous restaurant serving until 9pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

3:00pm

Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology

Discover the history of Toyota and technology innovation. Open from 9:30am to 5pm, closed Mondays.
JPY500, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Hitsumabushi Bincho

Sample hitsumabushi, grilled eel rice bowl, a local favorite. The restaurant opens till 9pm.
JPY4000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Nagoya

Day 6: Kanazawa Historical

Kanazawa, Japan on May 10, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before departure.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Train to Kanazawa

Travel from Nagoya to Kanazawa via Shinkansen and Limited Express train; approximately 3 hours.
JPY7500, 3h0m

11:30am

Visit Kenrokuen Garden

Explore one of Japan's top three gardens, Kenrokuen, known for its beauty throughout the year. Open 7am to 6pm.
JPY320, 2h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Moroheiya

Taste the local specialty, handmade soba noodles at Moroheiya, open from 11:30am to 3pm.
JPY1400, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore Kanazawa Castle Park

Visit the historical Kanazawa Castle and surrounding park, open until 5pm.
Free, 1h30m

5:30pm

Dinner at Omicho Market

Dine at various stalls in Omicho Market offering fresh seafood and local dishes, open till early evening.
JPY3000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Kanazawa

Day 7: Travel to Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on May 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast preparation before travel to Kyoto.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Train to Kyoto

Board a Limited Express train for a roughly 2-hour journey to Kyoto.
JPY4300, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Explore Nishiki Market and enjoy various street foods in Kyoto’s famous food market, open 9am to 6pm.
JPY2000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit the iconic UNESCO-listed Kiyomizu-dera, open from 6am to 6pm, and enjoy panoramic views.
JPY400, 2h0m

5:00pm

Walk through Higashiyama District

Stroll through the beautifully preserved historic Higashiyama streets with traditional shops and tea houses.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Dine on traditional kaiseki cuisine in Kyoto’s Gion district, open till 9:30pm.
JPY8000, 2h0m
Find Hotels in Kyoto

Day 8: Kyoto Temples & Culture

Kyoto, Japan on May 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a classic Kyoto coffeehouse breakfast at Inoda Coffee, opening at 7am.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the famous shrine known for thousands of vermilion torii gates. Open 24 hours, no entry fee.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Explore Tofukuji Temple

Visit Tofukuji Temple’s gardens, popular in all seasons. Open 9am to 16:30pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Ramen Sen No Kaze

Taste authentic Kyoto style ramen with unique broths at this popular local spot, open 11am to 10pm.
JPY1000, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the iconic Golden Pavilion and its beautiful gardens. Open 9am to 17pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

5:00pm

Stroll along Philosopher’s Path

Walk the scenic Philosopher’s Path lined with cherry trees, a peaceful way to end the afternoon.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Yudofu Sagano

Experience traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine featuring tofu dishes near Arashiyama, usually open till 8pm.
JPY3000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Kyoto

Day 9: Arashiyama Nature & Culture

Kyoto, Japan on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Relaxed breakfast at your accommodation.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the famous bamboo groves early to avoid crowds. Open 24 hours, free entry.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji Temple with its stunning gardens. Open 8:30am to 17:30pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Enjoy tofu cuisine with views over the river, Shoraian is open for lunch from 11:30am to 3pm.
JPY4000, 1h30m

2:30pm

Boat Ride on Katsura River

Take a scenic boat ride on the Katsura River, offering serene nature views. Available 9am to 4pm depending on season.
JPY3000, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Iwatayama Monkey Park

Hike up to see wild monkeys and panoramic views of Kyoto. Open 9am to 4:30pm.
JPY550, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Umezu

Dine at Umezu for contemporary Kyoto cuisine in a cozy setting, open till 9pm.
JPY4500, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Kyoto

Day 10: Day Trip to Nara

Nara, Japan on May 14, 2025

7:30am

Train to Nara

Travel to Nara (approx 1 hour) by train for a day of historic temples and park visits.
JPY720, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Todai-ji Temple

View the giant Buddha statue at Todai-ji, one of the world’s largest wooden buildings. Open 7:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY600, 2h0m

11:30am

Nara Park with Deer

Enjoy strolling the extensive Nara Park area and feeding the friendly deer roaming free.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Maguro Koya

Savor fresh tuna dishes and seafood specialties, open from 11am to 3pm.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Explore this historic Shinto shrine famous for its lanterns. Open 6am to 6pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

4:30pm

Return to Kyoto

Travel back to Kyoto and relax at your hotel.
JPY720, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Giro Giro Hitoshina

Enjoy innovative kaiseki dining in Kyoto, open till 10pm with reservations recommended.
JPY8000, 2h0m
Find Hotels in Nara

Day 11: Osaka Urban Experience

Osaka, Japan on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Train to Osaka

Travel from Kyoto to Osaka by train (approx 30 minutes).
JPY560, 0h30m

9:00am

Breakfast at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Try street food and fresh seafood at Kuromon Ichiba Market, open 9am to 6pm.
JPY1500, 1h30m

11:00am

Visit Osaka Castle

Tour the historic Osaka Castle and its museum. Open 9am to 5pm, last entry 4:30pm.
JPY600, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Dotonbori Street

Enjoy takoyaki and okonomiyaki, Osaka’s famous street snacks along lively Dotonbori street.
JPY2000, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Shop and stroll through Osaka’s premier shopping street, open all day.
Free to browse, 2h0m

6:00pm

Visit Umeda Sky Building Observatory

Observe panoramic views of Osaka from the Floating Garden Observatory, open 10am to 10:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Enjoy Osaka’s famous kushikatsu (deep fried skewers) at this casual yet iconic restaurant, open till 11pm.
JPY3000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Osaka

Day 12: Osaka & Travel to Hiroshima

Osaka & Hiroshima, Japan on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast before checkout.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Explore one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, open from 6am to 5pm.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Train to Hiroshima

Travel by Shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima, approx 1 hour 30 minutes.
JPY10000, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Okonomimura

Taste Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Okonomimura, a layered pancake specialty, open 11am to 9pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum

Reflect at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, open 8:30am to 6pm. Entry fee required for museum.
JPY200, 2h0m

5:00pm

Check in to hotel & rest

Relax at your accommodation in Hiroshima.
Varies, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Nagata-ya

Enjoy authentic Hiroshima okonomiyaki at Nagata-ya, open until 9:30pm.
JPY2000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Osaka & Hiroshima

Day 13: Miyajima Island

Hiroshima, Japan on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Ferry to Miyajima Island

Take the ferry from Hiroshima to Miyajima, a short 10-minute ride, offering scenic views.
JPY360, 0h30m

9:30am

Visit Itsukushima Shrine

Explore the famous floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, open 6:30am to 6pm.
JPY300, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Yakigaki-no-Hayashi

Savor grilled oysters and other seafood, a Miyajima specialty, open 11am to 4pm.
JPY2500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Hiking Mount Misen

Enjoy a scenic hike or cable car ride to Mount Misen summit for panoramic views. Cable car runs 8:30am to 5pm.
JPY1800 for cable car, 3h0m

5:00pm

Return to Hiroshima

Take ferry back to Hiroshima and relax at your hotel.
JPY360, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mitchan Okonomiyaki

Dine on Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at another famed local spot, open till 9pm.
JPY2000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Hiroshima

Day 14: Return to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on May 18, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Hiroshima before departure.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Shinkansen to Tokyo

Take the bullet train back to Tokyo, about 4 hours journey.
JPY19400, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch near Tokyo Station – Ramen Street

Try various regional ramen styles at Ramen Street, open 11am to 10pm.
JPY1200, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Odaiba

Explore Odaiba’s futuristic entertainment area with shopping and waterfront views, open all day.
Free entry, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Sushi Daiwa

Experience fresh sushi at Sushi Daiwa near Tsukiji Market, open until evening.
JPY5000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 15: Tokyo Free Day

Tokyo, Japan on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe de L’Ambre

Enjoy specialty coffee and light breakfast at this classic Tokyo cafe open from 8am.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Akihabara District

Visit the famous electronics and anime district, open all day for shopping and entertainment.
Free to browse, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Katsuya Akihabara

Enjoy tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet), a popular Japanese dish at Katsuya, open 11am to 10pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit teamLab Planets Tokyo

Immerse in the digital art museum experience; opening hours 10am to 7pm (Friday open till 9pm).
JPY3200, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at hotel or optional spa

Rest or enjoy spa facilities in your hotel.
Varies, 2h0m

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner at New York Grill, Park Hyatt

Celebrate your last night with panoramic views and refined dining at New York Grill, open till 11pm.
JPY15000, 2h0m
Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 16: Tokyo Shopping & Departure Prep

Tokyo, Japan on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast to start your day.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Shopping in Shinjuku

Explore major department stores and boutiques in Shinjuku for last-minute gifts and souvenirs.
Free to browse, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Nabezo Shinjuku

Enjoy a Japanese hotpot (shabu shabu) meal in a popular Shinjuku restaurant, open till 10pm.
JPY4000, 1h30m

2:30pm

Visit Samurai Museum

Discover the history of samurai culture in Shinjuku, open 11am to 9pm.
JPY1800, 1h30m

4:30pm

Return to hotel and pack

Prepare for your departure the next day.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Tofuya Ukai

Experience exquisite tofu-based kaiseki cuisine in a beautiful garden setting, open till 9:30pm.
JPY10000, 2h0m
Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 17: Departure Day

Tokyo, Japan on May 21, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Have an early breakfast at the hotel before checking out.
Included, 1h0m

7:30am

Transfer to Narita or Haneda Airport

Use airport shuttle or taxi to reach the airport for your flight departure.
JPY3000-6000, 1-2h depending on airport
Find Hotels in Tokyo
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