Comprehensive 2-Week Japan Itinerary: Osaka, Kyoto, Tokyo Exploration

Day 1: Arrival and Osaka Intro

Osaka, Japan on June 1, 2025

9:00am

Arrival and Hotel Check-In

Arrive at Kansai International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Osaka. Recommended hotels include Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka or Swissotel Nankai Osaka for convenient city access.
Varies, 1h30m

11:00am

Breakfast at LiLo Coffee Roasters

Start your day with quality coffee and light pastries at this popular spot open from 8:00am to 6:00pm, perfect for a morning pick-me-up.
JPY1000, 1h

12:30pm

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore this iconic landmark from 9:00am to 5:00pm, appreciating the history and its beautiful surrounding park, a must-see for first-time visitors.
JPY600, 2h

3:00pm

Stroll in Dotonbori Area

Experience the vibrant nightlife, neon lights, and famous street food stalls along the Dotonbori Canal, ideal for an afternoon walk and snack tasting.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Enjoy Osaka’s famous deep-fried skewers in this popular restaurant open until 10:00pm, a traditional experience not to miss.
JPY1500-3000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Osaka Culture and Food

Osaka, Japan on June 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Grandma’s Cafe

Try a range of homemade-style Japanese breakfasts served in a cozy setting, opening hours 7:30am to 3:00pm.
JPY1000-1500, 1h

9:30am

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Explore one of the world’s largest and most spectacular aquariums from 10:00am to 8:00pm, home to diverse marine life.
JPY2400, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Tempozan Marketplace

Grab a variety of Japanese street foods and sushi here, open 10:00am to 9:00pm, located near the aquarium.
JPY1000-2000, 1h

3:00pm

Umeda Sky Building

Visit the Floating Garden Observatory from 10:00am to 10:30pm for panoramic city views, especially beautiful at sunset.
JPY1500, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Tsurutontan Udon Noodle Brasserie

Enjoy premium udon dishes at this stylish restaurant with open hours till 11:00pm.
JPY1500-2500, 1h30m
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Day 3: Osaka Historic Sites & Shopping

Osaka, Japan on June 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at El Pan

Savor artisan breads and coffee at this bakery open from 7:30am to 6:00pm.
JPY800-1200, 1h

9:30am

Shitennoji Temple Visit

Visit one of Japan’s oldest temples, open 8:30am to 4:30pm. Experience serene historic architecture and gardens.
JPY300, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch in Shinsekai

Try kushikatsu and local delicacies in this traditional area, shops open around 11:00am to late evening.
JPY1500-2500, 1h30m

2:00pm

Shopping at Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Spend the afternoon exploring a vast shopping street with international and local brands; stores operate mostly 10:00am to 9:00pm.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M

Indulge in premium Matsusaka beef barbecue till around 11:00pm, a must for meat lovers.
JPY4000-7000, 2h
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Day 4: Travel to Kyoto and Initial Exploration

Kyoto, Japan on June 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local café

Enjoy a quick breakfast before checking out to travel to Kyoto, options available till about 10:00am locally.
Varies, 1h

9:30am

Travel from Osaka to Kyoto

Take the JR Special Rapid Service train from Osaka Station to Kyoto Station; journey takes about 30 minutes.
JPY560, 30m

10:30am

Hotel Check-in in Kyoto

Recommended hotels include Hotel Granvia Kyoto or The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo for central access.
Varies, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Explore lively market stalls offering fresh local foods, open generally from 9:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY1000-2000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

A stunning historic temple open 6:00am to 6:00pm, offering breathtaking views of Kyoto and cultural significance.
JPY400, 2h

5:00pm

Walk through Higashiyama District

Stroll this preserved historic district with charming streets and shops, open till early evening for a calm scenic walk.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Tanto

Enjoy traditional Kyoto cuisine in the famous Gion area, open till 10:00pm.
JPY3000-5000, 1h30m
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Day 5: Kyoto Temples & Gardens

Kyoto, Japan on June 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start with a classic Kyoto coffee and breakfast at this historic café, open from 7:00am.
JPY1000, 1h

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Visit the iconic thousands of red torii gates available 24/7 for a beautiful hike experience.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Vermillion - Espresso Bar and Info

Light meals and coffee for a break near Fushimi Inari, open 8:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000-1500, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at this shimmering temple set in beautiful gardens, open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

3:30pm

Visit Ryoan-ji Rock Garden

Experience the famed Japanese Zen garden near Kinkaku-ji, open 8:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Okutan Kiyomizu

Dine on traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine in a historic setting, open till 9:00pm.
JPY4000-6000, 1h30m
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Day 6: Arashiyama & Cultural Experience

Kyoto, Japan on June 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon Kyoto

Enjoy matcha-based breakfast alternatives and pastries, open from 8:00am.
JPY1000-1500, 1h

9:00am

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Walk

Early morning walk through this serene and breathtaking bamboo forest, open 24/7.
Free, 1h30m

10:30am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site and its gardens, open from 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Enjoy traditional Buddhist temple cuisine (shojin ryori) inside Tenryu-ji, requires prior booking, open for lunch 11:30am to 2:00pm.
JPY3000-5000, 1h30m

2:30pm

Togetsukyo Bridge and River Walk

Relax by the scenic river and bridge, perfect for photos and gentle strolls, open all day.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Monkey Park Iwatayama

Hike up to see wild monkeys and get panoramic views of Kyoto, open 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY550, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Yudofu Sagano

Specialized tofu restaurant in Arashiyama, open until 8:00pm.
JPY2000-3500, 1h30m
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Day 7: Kyoto to Tokyo Travel Day

Tokyo, Japan on June 7, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a buffet or Japanese breakfast to fuel up for a travel day, typically available from 6:30am.
Included with hotel or JPY1000, 1h

8:30am

Travel from Kyoto to Tokyo by Shinkansen

Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen (Nozomi or Hikari) from Kyoto Station to Tokyo Station (approx 2h30m). Book tickets in advance for best seats.
JPY14000, 2h30m

11:30am

Hotel Check-in in Tokyo

Recommended hotels include Park Hotel Tokyo or Hotel Niwa Tokyo, centrally located with easy access to city attractions.
Varies, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Tsukiji Outer Market

Sample fresh seafood and street food from 9:00am to 4:00pm in this renowned market area.
JPY1500-2500, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple

Explore historic temple and Nakamise shopping street, open all day with shops typically until early evening.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Walk the Sumida River promenade

Enjoy views of Tokyo Skytree and the river, especially pleasant at sunset.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Tempura Tsunahachi

Enjoy expertly fried tempura in a classic Tokyo eatery open till 10:00pm.
JPY2500-4000, 1h30m
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Day 8: Modern Tokyo & Shopping

Tokyo, Japan on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bills Omotesando

Known for excellent pancakes and stylish interior, open 8:30am to 5:00pm.
JPY1500-2500, 1h

9:30am

Visit Meiji Shrine

Quiet forested shrine open from sunrise to sunset, perfect for cultural immersion.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk through Harajuku Takeshita Street

Vibrant youth fashion district filled with shops and cafes, shops open generally from 11:00am to 8:00pm.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Afuri Ramen

Enjoy yuzu-flavored ramen, very popular and open till late afternoon.
JPY1000-1500, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Shibuya Crossing and Shopping

Visit iconic crossing and shopping complexes including Shibuya 109, open mostly 10:00am to 9:00pm.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Tokyo Tower

See spectacular city views from open observatories 9:00am to 11:00pm.
JPY1200-3300, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Dine where the famous Kill Bill was filmed, specializing in izakaya style dishes, open till 11:30pm.
JPY3000-6000, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Tokyo Cultural and Historic Spots

Tokyo, Japan on June 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sarabeth’s Lumine Shinjuku

American-style breakfast with quality ingredients, open from 8:00am.
JPY1500-2500, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Imperial Palace East Gardens

Enjoy beautifully maintained gardens in the heart of Tokyo, open 9:00am to 4:30pm except Mondays and Fridays.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Kyubey Ginza

Renowned sushi restaurant offering traditional Edomae sushi, reservations recommended, open till 9:00pm.
JPY5000-15000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit teamLab Planets Tokyo

Interactive digital art museum open 10:00am to 7:00pm, book tickets in advance to avoid queues.
JPY3200, 2h

5:00pm

Explore Odaiba Waterfront

Discover futuristic entertainment complexes and views, open all day with shops mostly 10:00am to 9:00pm.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Sushi Dai (if early) or Daiwa Sushi

Famous sushi counters at Tsukiji-related markets; Daiwa Sushi open until early evening, arrive early for Sushi Dai.
JPY4000-8000, 1h30m
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Day 10: Day Trip to Nikko

Tokyo, Japan on June 10, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast and Travel to Nikko

Eat a quick breakfast before taking the Tobu train from Asakusa to Nikko (approx 2h), trains start early.
JPY2700, 2h

9:30am

Visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine

Explore lavishly decorated shrine open daily from 8:00am to 5:00pm, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
JPY1300, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Traditional local eatery near shrine, open till 2:30pm.
JPY1000-1500, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji

Natural scenic spots accessible by bus, enjoy walking around and sightseeing.
Bus JPY1000 roundtrip, falls admission free, 3h

5:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Take train back to Tokyo arriving approx 7:00pm.
Included, 2h

7:30pm

Light Dinner or Room Service

Relax after day trip with dinner at your hotel or nearby eateries open late in Tokyo.
Varies, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Tokyo Leisure and Exploration

Tokyo, Japan on June 11, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café de l'Ambre

Try specialty hand-drip coffee at this traditional coffee shop in Ginza, open from 11:00am but check special hours.
JPY1000, 1h

10:00am

Ginza Shopping and Art Galleries

Explore upscale shops and multiple art galleries in Tokyo’s luxury district, shops open around 10:30am.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Maisen Aoyama Honten

Famous for tonkatsu, open 11:00am to 8:00pm.
JPY2000-3500, 1h

2:30pm

Visit National Museum of Modern Art Tokyo

Explore Japanese modern art, open 10:00am to 5:00pm, closed Mondays.
JPY430, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Hamarikyu Gardens

Historic garden with tea house, a perfect spot to unwind, open till 5:00pm.
JPY300, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Narisawa

Michelin-starred innovative Japanese cuisine, reservation required, open until 9:30pm.
JPY25000+, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Last Day Tokyo Highlights

Tokyo, Japan on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at T.Y. Harbor Brewery

Waterfront brewery and café serving hearty breakfast, opens at 8:00am.
JPY1500, 1h

9:30am

Visit Oedo Onsen Monogatari

Relax in a traditional hot spring park themed after the Edo period, open from 11:00am, best to arrive just after opening.
JPY2480, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at nearby Edo style restaurants in Odaiba

Enjoy regional specialties open during park hours.
JPY1500-2500, 1h

3:00pm

Shopping and strolling in Akihabara

Explore electronic shops, anime culture and unique cafes open 10:00am to 8:00pm.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Tapas Molecular Bar

Experience innovative molecular gastronomy in a small, exclusive setting with reservations required, open till 10:00pm.
JPY25000, 2h
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Day 13: Departure Day

Tokyo, Japan on June 13, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a final Japanese breakfast or buffet before check-out.
Included or JPY1000, 1h

8:00am

Check-out and Transfer to Airport

Take limousine bus or train to Narita or Haneda Airport for your departure. Allow 1-1.5 hours travel time.
JPY3000-4000, 1h30m
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