Two-Week Ultimate Japan Sightseeing Itinerary: Tokyo to Kyoto and Beyond

Day 1: Tokyo Arrival

Tokyo, Japan on May 19, 2025

12:00pm

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Enjoy fresh sushi and local snacks at the vibrant Tsukiji Outer Market, a perfect introduction to Japanese cuisine.
JPY2000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo’s oldest temple in Asakusa, marvel at the Kaminarimon gate and browse the cozy Nakamise shopping street.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Stroll and shop in Akihabara

Discover Akihabara’s electronic shops, anime stores, and themed cafes, experiencing Tokyo’s otaku culture.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Ichiran Ramen

Savor classic tonkotsu ramen in a famed solo dining style restaurant well known for its rich flavors.
JPY1200, 1h
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Day 2: Modern Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on May 20, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Bills Omotesando

Enjoy fluffy ricotta pancakes and excellent coffee in a stylish setting overlooking tree-lined Omotesando.
JPY2500, 1h

10:00am

Explore Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park

Visit the serene Meiji Shrine surrounded by forest and then walk through the expansive Yoyogi Park for a nature break in bustling Tokyo.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch in Harajuku

Eat trendy crepes or enjoy Japanese curry at one of Harajuku’s popular cafés while watching youthful street fashion.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit teamLab Borderless Digital Art Museum (MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM)

Immerse yourself in mesmerizing digital art with interactive exhibits and futuristic displays. Open 10am-7pm.
JPY3200, 2h

5:00pm

Explore Odaiba

Relax by the waterfront, visit shopping centers, and enjoy views of the Rainbow Bridge at sunset.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Dine in the restaurant famous for inspiring the Kill Bill movie scene, serving delicious Izakaya-style dishes.
JPY4000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan on May 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast near hotel

Grab a quick Japanese breakfast nearby to fuel your day trip to Nikko.
JPY1000, 30m

8:30am

Travel Tokyo to Nikko

Take the Tobu Limited Express Romancecar or JR train to reach the cultural treasures of Nikko in about 2 hours.
JPY2500 - 4000, 2h

11:00am

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore the lavishly decorated Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for ornate carvings and wildlife motifs.
JPY1300, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Enjoy local yuba (tofu skin) dishes and traditional style home-cooked meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
JPY1500, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji

Take a scenic bus ride up to the stunning Kegon Fall viewpoint and enjoy peaceful Lake Chuzenji surroundings.
Bus fare ~JPY800, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Head back to Tokyo to rest and prepare for the next part of your trip.
Included in train fare, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner near hotel

Choose a local izakaya or sushi restaurant to unwind after a full day of sightseeing.
JPY3000, 1h
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Day 4: Tokyo Cultural Gems

Tokyo, Japan on May 22, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Aoyama Flower Market Tea House

A unique floral café offering peaceful ambiance with fresh flowers and light, fresh breakfast plates.
JPY2000, 1h

10:00am

Visit Tokyo National Museum

Explore Japan’s oldest and largest museum showcasing an extensive collection of art and cultural artifacts. Open 9:30am-5pm.
JPY1000, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Ueno area

Enjoy tempura or sushi at a popular Ueno eatery near the museum.
JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Stroll through Ueno Park and Ameyoko Market

Relax in Ueno Park’s green spaces and explore lively market stalls selling everything from snacks to clothes.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Ginza for shopping and sunset views

Shop high-end brands or explore flagship stores, then enjoy the illuminated streets after sunset.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Sukiyabashi Jiro (reservation needed)

Experience world-renowned sushi artistry at this Michelin-starred restaurant.
JPY40000, 1h30m
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Day 5: Travel to Hakone

Hakone, Japan on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a Japanese style breakfast provided by your accommodation before departure.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Travel Tokyo to Hakone

Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Odawara station then a local train or bus to Hakone, famous for hot springs and Mt. Fuji views.
JPY4000, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Hakone Bakery & Table

Enjoy fresh baked goods, sandwiches and coffee with beautiful lake views.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Discover outdoor contemporary sculptures amid nature, including interactive exhibits. Open daily 9am-5pm.
JPY1600, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Owakudani Valley

See volcanic activity and enjoy the famous black eggs boiled in sulphur hot springs; take the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic views.
Ropeway JPY1500 round trip, 1h30m

6:00pm

Check into Ryokan with Onsen

Relax and soak in natural hot spring baths in a traditional Japanese inn setting.
JPY15000, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Ryokan

Enjoy a kaiseki multi-course dinner featuring seasonal and local ingredients in your Ryokan.
Included, 1h30m
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Day 6: Hakone to Kyoto

Hakone / Kyoto, Japan on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ryokan

Traditional Japanese set breakfast to start the day.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Boat Cruise on Lake Ashi

Enjoy views of Mt. Fuji and picturesque surroundings from a pirate ship-style boat on Lake Ashi.
JPY1500, 1h

11:00am

Travel Hakone to Kyoto

Take trains back to Odawara then catch the Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto. Journey approx 3 hours.
JPY14000, 3h

2:30pm

Check-in and lunch near hotel

Try Kyoto specialties like yudofu (tofu hotpot) or kaiseki small dishes at a local restaurant.
JPY2500, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Gion District

Stroll through the historic geisha district with traditional wooden machiya houses and teahouses.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine alongside the Kamogawa River in atmospheric narrow alley filled with restaurants offering Kyoto cuisine.
JPY4000, 1h30m
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Day 7: Kyoto Temples

Kyoto, Japan on May 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy classic Kyoto-style coffee and pastries at this beloved local café.
JPY1200, 1h

9:00am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Admire the iconic gold leaf-covered temple and beautiful surrounding gardens. Open 9am-5pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:00am

Ryoan-ji Temple

Contemplate the famous Zen rock garden in this peaceful temple compound nearby.
JPY500, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Savor handmade udon noodles and seasonal Kyoto vegetables in a charming setting.
JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine

Walk through thousands of red torii gates on this stunning mountainside shrine open 24 hours.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to hotel and rest

Relax after a full day of exploring Kyoto’s sacred sites.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Nishikawa

Experience refined kaiseki cuisine featuring seasonal ingredients in a traditional setting. Reservation required.
JPY15000, 1h30m
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Day 8: Arashiyama Nature

Kyoto, Japan on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee Arashiyama

Start your day with excellent specialty coffee by the river in a scenic location.
JPY800, 30m

9:00am

Bamboo Grove Walk

Experience the ethereal beauty of the famous bamboo forest early before crowds arrive.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site with its exquisite gardens and tranquil pond.
JPY500, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Yudofu Sagano

Enjoy a meal centered on yudofu (boiled tofu) in a traditional and serene atmosphere.
JPY2500, 1h

1:30pm

Boat ride on Katsura River

Relax with a scenic boat ride along the Katsura River (seasonal availability).
JPY1500, 1h

3:30pm

Walk through Sagano Scenic Railway

Optional scenic train ride (if time permits) offering stunning mountain views.
JPY620, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Kyoto city center

Prepare for evening in town.
Included, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Menbakaichidai Fire Ramen

Watch an exciting fire show while enjoying flaming ramen, a unique culinary experience.
JPY1000, 1h
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Day 9: Kyoto to Nara Day Trip

Nara, Japan on May 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a quick breakfast before the journey to Nara.
Included, 30m

8:30am

Travel Kyoto to Nara

Take the JR or Kintetsu train for about 45 minutes to the historic city of Nara.
JPY710, 45m

9:30am

Visit Todai-ji Temple

See the giant bronze Buddha statue in one of Japan’s largest wooden buildings.
JPY600, 1h30m

11:00am

Nara Park and Deer Feeding

Walk through the park famous for friendly wild deer and scenic ponds.
JPY200 for deer crackers, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Nakatanidou Mochi Shop

Taste freshly pounded mochi and traditional sweets from this famous shop.
JPY500, 30m

1:30pm

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Visit the shrine known for hundreds of stone and bronze lanterns along wooded paths.
JPY500, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Kyoto

Travel back to Kyoto to continue sightseeing or rest.
Included, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Kyoto Station Ramen Street

Choose from multiple ramen shops offering varied regional flavors in a bustling atmosphere.
JPY1000, 1h
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Day 10: Kyoto Cultural Immersion

Kyoto, Japan on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Bibliotic Hello!

Enjoy a cozy café atmosphere with hearty breakfast options and good coffee.
JPY1500, 1h

9:30am

Nijo Castle

Explore the historic castle known for its beautiful gardens and nightingale wooden floors. Open 8:45am-5pm.
JPY1000, 1h30m

11:30am

Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Walk the lovely park grounds surrounding the former Imperial residence, serene and spacious.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample diverse local delicacies, street foods, and fresh seafood in Kyoto’s famous food market.
JPY2000, 1h30m

2:30pm

Visit Philosopher's Path

Take a scenic walk along this cherry tree-lined canal featuring multiple small temples and peaceful spots.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

End the day at this UNESCO World Heritage site known for panoramic views over Kyoto. Open until 6pm.
JPY400, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ganko Sushi Sanjo

Enjoy fresh sushi in a traditional atmosphere in central Kyoto.
JPY3500, 1h
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Day 11: Kyoto to Osaka

Osaka, Japan on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a leisurely breakfast before departing to Osaka.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Travel Kyoto to Osaka

Take a short train ride (~30 min) to Osaka, the vibrant city famous for food and nightlife.
JPY560, 30m

10:30am

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore the historic castle and lush surrounding park, learning about its significance and enjoying views from the top. Open 9am-5pm.
JPY600, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Dotonbori Street

Enjoy street food staples like takoyaki and okonomiyaki in Osaka’s famous food district.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Shop and browse through this extensive covered shopping street with boutiques and eateries.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Visit Umeda Sky Building

Ascend to the Floating Garden Observatory for incredible panoramic views of Osaka city at sunset. Open 10am-10:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Savor Osaka’s famous deep-fried skewers, a must-try local comfort food.
JPY2500, 1h
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Day 12: Osaka Sightseeing

Osaka, Japan on May 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Brooklyn Roasting Company

Start with premium coffee and western-style breakfast near Osaka Bay.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Explore one of the world's largest aquariums featuring diverse marine life; opens 10am-8pm.
JPY2400, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Tempozan Marketplace

Enjoy ocean view dining and fresh seafood near the aquarium.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Ride the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel

Take in amazing aerial views of Osaka Bay from this colorful Ferris wheel. Open 11am-10pm.
JPY800, 30m

3:00pm

Visit Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Experience one of Japan’s oldest shrines showcasing distinctive architecture and peaceful grounds.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Relax at Spa World

Unwind in themed hot spring baths and wellness facilities open until 11pm.
JPY1200, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Dotonbori Konamon Museum

Try various street foods including takoyaki with a lively, fun museum-style dining experience.
JPY1800, 1h
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Day 13: Osaka to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on May 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Osaka with a variety of options.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Travel Osaka to Tokyo

Take the Shinkansen bullet train or airport express to Tokyo in approximately 3 hours.
JPY14000, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch near hotel

Choose from myriad Tokyo eateries for your meal upon return.
JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Free time for shopping or exploring

Spend your afternoon at leisure visiting areas like Shibuya, Shinjuku or Ikebukuro.
Varies, 3h

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Narisawa

Experience world-class innovative Japanese cuisine at this two-Michelin-starred restaurant. Reservation required.
JPY35000, 2h
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Day 14: Departure Day

Tokyo, Japan on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and last-minute shopping

Enjoy a final Japanese breakfast and grab souvenirs in Tokyo before heading to the airport.
JPY2000, 2h

11:00am

Travel to Tokyo Airport

Take airport limousine bus, train, or taxi according to your flight schedule.
JPY3000, 1h30m
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