Comprehensive 20-Day Japan Journey from Kyoto: Cultural Treasures to Modern Marvels

Day 1: Kyoto Exploration

Kyoto, Japan on October 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast and rich coffee at Inoda Coffee, a beloved Kyoto institution known for its warm atmosphere.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the stunning gold-leafed temple set by a serene pond, one of Kyoto’s iconic landmarks showcasing classical Muromachi period architecture.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Ryoan-ji Temple

Visit the famous Zen rock garden at Ryoan-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its minimalist design that inspires contemplation.
JPY500, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample various traditional Kyoto street foods such as yuba, pickled vegetables, and fresh sushi at stalls inside the bustling Nishiki Market.
JPY1500, 1h

2:30pm

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Walk the famous torii gate pathway up Mount Inari, a mesmerizing Shinto shrine known for its thousands of vermillion gates.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Enjoy refined Kaiseki cuisine in a traditional setting within Kyoto’s historic Geisha district Gion.
JPY6000, 2h
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Day 2: Temples & Traditions

Kyoto, Japan on October 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Fuel up with specialty coffee and light pastries at this stylish coffee shop set near the historic Higashiyama district.
JPY800, 45m

9:00am

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Experience panoramic views of Kyoto from the wooden terrace of this famous Buddhist temple, open from 6am to 6pm.
JPY400, 2h

11:30am

Sannen-zaka & Ninen-zaka

Stroll historic preserved streets lined with traditional shops and teahouses, perfect for photos and souvenirs.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Savour handmade udon noodles and seasonal vegetables near Kodai-ji Temple in a serene garden setting.
JPY1800, 1h

2:30pm

Nijo Castle

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site, an exquisitely preserved samurai residence featuring nightingale floors and beautiful gardens.
JPY1000, 2h

5:30pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine along the atmospheric Kamogawa riverfront in Pontocho, where you can choose from izakaya to elegant kaiseki fare.
JPY4000, 2h
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Day 3: Day Trip to Arashiyama

Kyoto, Japan on October 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Café Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy traditional Japanese soba noodles with a view over the Katsura River to start your day in Arashiyama.
JPY1200, 1h

9:00am

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the iconic bamboo forest early to avoid crowds and experience the calming, otherworldly atmosphere.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Tenryu-ji Temple & Garden

Explore the spectacular Zen temple and its lush gardens, which capture the essence of traditional landscape design.
JPY500, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura Soba

Taste premium handmade soba noodles with a scenic river view at this well-known restaurant.
JPY2000, 1h

2:30pm

Monkey Park Iwatayama

Hike to this park to see wild Japanese macaques and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto below.
JPY550, 1h30m

5:00pm

Return to Kyoto and Dinner at Katsukura Kyoto Sanjo

Indulge in some of Kyoto’s best tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet), renowned for its crispy exterior and juicy meat.
JPY2500, 1h30m
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Day 4: Philosopher's Path & Museums

Kyoto, Japan on October 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Walden Woods Kyoto

Savour fresh baked goods and specialty coffee in a stylish café just steps from the Philosopher’s Path.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Philosopher’s Path Walk

Take a tranquil walk along this cherry blossom-lined canal walk connecting Ginkaku-ji to Nanzen-ji temples.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Visit this iconic Zen temple with beautiful moss gardens, considered a masterpiece of Japanese garden design.
JPY500, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Okutan Nanzenji

Delight in traditional yudofu (boiled tofu) cuisine, a Kyoto speciality, in a historic setting near Nanzen-ji.
JPY2500, 1h

2:30pm

Kyoto National Museum

Explore exhibitions showcasing traditional Japanese art and artifacts in a beautiful historic building (open 9:30am-5pm).
JPY1500, 2h

5:30pm

Dinner at Issian Pontocho

Experience authentic Kyoto-style obanzai (home-style) dishes in the charming Pontocho alley.
JPY3500, 2h
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Day 5: Last Kyoto Day & Travel to Osaka

Kyoto to Osaka, Japan on October 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon Kyoto

Enjoy light breakfast with a tea focus at this elegant café known for its green tea desserts.
JPY1200, 1h

9:00am

Visit To-ji Temple

Discover the towering five-story pagoda at this historic temple, with markets on month-end weekends.
JPY500, 1h

10:30am

Travel from Kyoto to Osaka

Take the JR Special Rapid Service from Kyoto Station to Osaka Station, which takes about 30 minutes.
JPY570, 30m

11:15am

Osaka Check-in & Lunch at Dotonbori Street

Check into your hotel and then explore Dotonbori’s lively food scene, try takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
JPY1500, 2h

2:00pm

Osaka Castle

Visit the iconic Osaka Castle with its museum and panoramic views from the top floor (open 9am-5pm).
JPY600, 2h

5:30pm

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma Shinsekai

Eat at the famous Kushikatsu chain in Shinsekai where you dip skewered fried foods in special sauces.
JPY2500, 1h30m
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Day 6: Osaka Modern Culture

Osaka, Japan on October 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at LiLo Coffee Roasters

Start with freshly roasted coffee and light breakfast in a trendy café in Osaka’s Tenma area.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Umeda Sky Building

Enjoy spectacular city views from the Floating Garden Observatory on the 39th floor (open 10am-10:30pm).
JPY1500, 1h30m

11:30am

Osaka Museum of Housing and Living

Experience historical Osaka through interactive exhibits of streets and buildings from the Edo period.
JPY600, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Taste fresh seafood, grilled meats, and other local specialties at this bustling market.
JPY1800, 1h

2:30pm

TeamLab Planets TOKYO (Optional day trip or later in Tokyo)

This is a renowned digital art museum in Tokyo, suggested later during the Tokyo stay.
JPY3200, 2h

4:00pm

Explore Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Shop and soak up Osaka’s vibrant shopping culture along this long covered street.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M

Enjoy premium Matsusaka beef grilled at your table, a luxurious Kansai delicacy.
JPY7000, 2h
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Day 7: Day trip to Nara

Nara, Japan on October 31, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or local café

Have a quick breakfast before departing to Nara by train.
Varies, 45m

8:30am

Train from Osaka to Nara

15-45 minute journey by Kintetsu or JR line depending on departure station.
JPY560, 45m

9:30am

Todai-ji Temple

See the Great Buddha housed in one of the world’s largest wooden buildings (open 7:30am-5pm).
JPY600, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Nakatanidou

Try the famous yomogi mochi (mugwort rice cakes) and other traditional sweets.
JPY1000, 1h

1:30pm

Nara Park and Deer Feeding

Walk in the expansive park and interact with friendly wild deer roaming freely.
JPY200 for deer crackers, 2h

4:00pm

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Visit a serene Shinto shrine famous for its hundreds of stone and bronze lanterns.
JPY500, 1h

5:30pm

Return to Osaka

Travel back by train to Osaka for your overnight stay.
JPY560, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Imanishi in Osaka

Enjoy a local-style izakaya dinner with a broad selection of small dishes and drinks.
JPY3500, 2h
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Day 8: Travel to Hiroshima

Osaka to Hiroshima, Japan on November 1, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Quick breakfast before train travel.
Varies, 45m

8:00am

Shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima

Take the direct bullet train, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
JPY10500, 1h30m

9:30am

Check-in and drop luggage

At your Hiroshima accommodation before exploring.
Varies, 30m

10:30am

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum

Explore the Peace Park and museum dedicated to the atomic bomb victims, open 8:30am-6pm.
JPY200, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Okonomimura

Sample Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at this multi-floor okonomiyaki food theme park.
JPY1200, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Hiroshima Castle

Explore the reconstructed castle with historical exhibits and a tranquil garden (open 9am-6pm).
JPY370, 1h30m

4:30pm

Shukkeien Garden

Walk the beautiful Japanese garden showcasing miniaturised landscapes (open 9am-6pm).
JPY260, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Hassho

Enjoy local Hiroshima cuisine specializing in fresh seafood and traditional dishes.
JPY4000, 2h
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Day 9: Miyajima Island Day

Hiroshima to Miyajima, Japan on November 2, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Eat an early breakfast before the island trip.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Miyajima via ferry

Take a short ferry ride from Miyajimaguchi Terminal to the island, approximately 10 minutes.
JPY400, 30m including transit

9:00am

Itsukushima Shrine

Visit the iconic floating torii gate and shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (open 6:30am-6pm).
JPY300, 2h

11:30am

Mount Misen Ropeway and Hiking

Ride the ropeway partway up Mount Misen and hike the rest for spectacular views.
JPY1800 round trip, 3h

2:30pm

Lunch at Yakigaki no Hayashi

Enjoy freshly grilled Hiroshima oysters and local specialties near the shrine.
JPY2000, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Omotesando Shopping Street

Browse shops offering souvenirs, sweets, and craft items in the island’s main street.
Free, 1h

5:30pm

Return to Hiroshima

Ferry back to mainland and transfer to hotel.
JPY400, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Nagata-ya

Famous for Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, perfect for a relaxed evening meal.
JPY1500, 1h30m
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Day 10: Travel to Kanazawa

Hiroshima to Kanazawa, Japan on November 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a nourishing breakfast before the train journey.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Train to Kanazawa via Shinkansen and Limited Express

Approximately 4.5-5 hour train trip via Shinkansen to Kanazawa, with a transfer at either Tokyo or Osaka.
JPY18000, 5h

1:30pm

Check-in and lunch near Kanazawa Station

Sample local seafood rice bowls at a restaurant near the station.
JPY1800, 1h

3:00pm

Kenroku-en Garden

Explore one of Japan’s top three gardens, known for its beauty in all seasons (open 7am-6pm).
JPY320, 2h

5:30pm

Dinner at Kagaya

Offer a memorable kaiseki dining experience featuring refined local ingredients.
JPY8000, 2h
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Day 11: Kanazawa Cultural Tour

Kanazawa, Japan on November 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Cafe

Enjoy specialty coffee and light western-style breakfast in a stylish setting.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art

View innovative contemporary art in a cutting-edge circular building (open 10am-6pm).
JPY1000, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Omicho Market

Taste fresh Kanazawa seafood and seasonal produce at this vibrant market.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Nagamachi Samurai District

Walk through preserved samurai homes and streets to experience Edo-era atmosphere.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

D.T. Suzuki Museum

Learn about the life and teachings of the Zen philosopher D.T. Suzuki in this carefully tranquil museum.
JPY300, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Fuwari

Enjoy a mix of traditional and modern Japanese dishes focusing on local Ishikawa ingredients.
JPY4000, 2h
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Day 12: Kanazawa to Tokyo

Kanazawa to Tokyo, Japan on November 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Light breakfast before departure.
Included, 45m

8:30am

Shinkansen from Kanazawa to Tokyo

Approximately 2.5-3 hours by Hokuriku Shinkansen.
JPY14000, 3h

12:00pm

Check-in and Lunch at Tokyo Station Ramen Street

Enjoy a variety of famous ramen styles at multiple eateries located in Tokyo Station.
JPY1200, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo’s oldest temple, vibrant Nakamise shopping street, and nearby Asakusa district.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Sumida River Cruise (optional)

Take a relaxing river cruise from Asakusa, enjoying city views (check seasonal schedules).
JPY1200, 40m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Famous for inspiring the Kill Bill restaurant scene, serving classic Japanese izakaya specialties.
JPY5000, 2h
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Day 13: Tokyo Highlights

Tokyo, Japan on November 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Enjoy fresh sushi breakfasts and street-food snacks at the bustling fish market.
JPY1500, 1h

9:30am

Meiji Shrine

Visit one of Tokyo’s most important Shinto shrines set in a peaceful forested area.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Harajuku & Takeshita Street

Experience Tokyo’s youth fashion culture and vibrant streets full of shops and cafes.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Afuri Harajuku

Try yuzu-flavored ramen from one of Tokyo’s most popular ramen shops.
JPY1200, 1h

2:30pm

Shibuya Crossing and Shopping

See the iconic busiest pedestrian crossing and visit trendy shopping malls nearby.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

TeamLab Planets Tokyo Digital Art Museum

Immerse yourself in mesmerizing digital art installations open until 9pm.
JPY3200, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Sushi Dai

Savour top-tier sushi in a popular restaurant near Tsukiji, reservation recommended.
JPY7000, 2h
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Day 14: DisneySea or Daytrip

Tokyo, Japan on November 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast and prepare for a full day out.
Included, 1h

9:00am

DisneySea Tokyo (Optional)

Spend the day at this unique sea-themed park known for cutting-edge rides and shows, open from 8am-10pm.
JPY8200, 8h

6:00pm

Dinner inside DisneySea or back in Tokyo

Enjoy a variety of dining options inside the park or return to Tokyo for dinner.
Varies, 1h30m
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Day 15: Tokyo Museums & Gardens

Tokyo, Japan on November 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Buvette Tokyo

Start your day with French-inspired breakfast and great coffee in the Ebisu area.
JPY1500, 1h

9:30am

Tokyo National Museum

Explore Japan’s oldest and largest museum with extensive cultural artifacts (open 9:30am-5pm).
JPY1000, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ueno Park cafes

Choose from several cafés and small restaurants within Ueno Park area.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Ueno Zoo or National Museum of Western Art

Choose between visiting Japan’s oldest zoo or art museum featuring European masterpieces.
JPY600, 2h

4:00pm

Stroll in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Relax in one of Tokyo’s largest and most beautiful gardens (open 9am-4:30pm, last entry 4pm).
JPY500, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Omoide Yokocho

Enjoy casual dining with yakitori and small plates in this atmospheric alley near Shinjuku station.
JPY3000, 2h
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Day 16: Travel to Hakone

Tokyo to Hakone, Japan on November 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before departure to Hakone.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Hakone via Odakyu Romancecar

Direct scenic train from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto, approx 1 hour 30 minutes.
JPY2200, 1h30m

10:00am

Check-in and Lunch in Hakone-Yumoto

Try regional cuisine such as soba noodles or black eggs (kuro-tamago) for lunch.
JPY1800, 1h

11:30am

Hakone Open Air Museum

Walk through spacious grounds featuring sculptures and artworks integrated with natural scenery (open 9am-5pm).
JPY1600, 2h

2:00pm

Lake Ashi Boat Cruise & Hakone Shrine

Take a boat cruise on Lake Ashi and visit the lakeside torii of Hakone Shrine.
JPY1500, 2h

5:00pm

Onsen Experience

Relax in a traditional hot spring bath at your ryokan or local onsen facility.
Varies, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at ryokan or local restaurant

Enjoy kaiseki or regional specialties as part of your accommodation stay or nearby dining.
Included or JPY4000, 2h
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Day 17: Hakone Scenic Day

Hakone, Japan on November 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at ryokan

Enjoy traditional Japanese breakfast included with your stay.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani

Ride the ropeway to the volcanic valley with views of steam vents and try the black eggs (open 9am-4:30pm).
JPY2070 round trip, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Togendai View Restaurant

Relax with lake views as you enjoy local dishes including fresh fish and tempura.
JPY2000, 1h

1:30pm

Pola Museum of Art

Visit this modern museum featuring Impressionist and Japanese art collection in a beautiful forest setting (open 9am-5pm).
JPY1800, 2h

4:00pm

Return to ryokan, Onsen

Enjoy additional relaxation in hot springs after your day of exploration.
Included, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at ryokan

Savour another exquisite kaiseki meal featuring seasonal ingredients.
Included, 2h
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Day 18: Hakone to Tokyo

Hakone to Tokyo, Japan on November 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and check-out

Eat breakfast and prepare for travel back to Tokyo.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Travel back to Tokyo by train

Return via Odakyu Romancecar or local train, approx 1.5 hours.
JPY2200, 1h30m

11:30am

Hotel check-in & lunch

Check into Tokyo hotel and have lunch nearby featuring Tokyo-style donburi dishes.
JPY1500, 1h

1:00pm

Explore Akihabara Electric Town

Discover Japan’s tech, anime, and gaming culture with shops and themed cafés.
Free, 2h

3:30pm

Visit Roppongi Hills and Mori Art Museum

Enjoy city views and contemporary art exhibits open until 10pm.
JPY1800, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Rigoletto Bar and Grill

Relax with western-style dining and cocktails in Roppongi.
JPY4000, 2h
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Day 19: Last day Tokyo & Shopping

Tokyo, Japan on November 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sarabeth’s Lumine Shinjuku

Begin your day with classic New York-style breakfast fare in a comfortable setting.
JPY2000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Tokyo Skytree

Go up the tallest tower in Japan for incredible views of the cityscape (open 8am-10pm).
JPY2100, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Solamachi Mall

Enjoy a wide variety of cuisine from Japanese to international options at this shopping complex near Tokyo Skytree.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Shopping in Ginza

Visit luxury boutiques and department stores in Tokyo’s most prestigious shopping district.
Free, 3h

5:00pm

Relax at Hamarikyu Gardens

Stroll this beautiful Edo period garden with a traditional teahouse where you can enjoy matcha tea.
JPY300, 1h

7:00pm

Farewell dinner at Tempura Kondo

Celebrate your final night in Japan with exquisite tempura crafted by a Michelin-starred chef.
JPY12000, 2h
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Day 20: Departure Day

Tokyo, Japan on November 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your last Japanese breakfast at the hotel.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Check out and travel to airport

Take the airport limousine bus or train to Narita or Haneda for your departure flight.
JPY3000, 1h30m

11:00am

Arrive at airport and check-in

Allow sufficient time for check-in and security before your flight.
Included, 2h
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