Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

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

Viewed by 122 travelers

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
Find Hotels in Kyoto

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
Find Hotels in Kyoto

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
Find Hotels in Kyoto

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
Find Hotels in Kyoto

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
Find Hotels in Kyoto to Osaka

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
Find Hotels in Osaka

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
Find Hotels in Nara

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
Find Hotels in Osaka to Hiroshima

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
Find Hotels in Hiroshima to Miyajima

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
Find Hotels in Hiroshima to Kanazawa

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
Find Hotels in Kanazawa

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
Find Hotels in Kanazawa to Tokyo

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
Find Hotels in Tokyo

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
Find Hotels in Tokyo

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
Find Hotels in Tokyo

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
Find Hotels in Tokyo to Hakone

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
Find Hotels in Hakone

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
Find Hotels in Hakone to Tokyo

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
Find Hotels in Tokyo

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
Find Hotels in Tokyo
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About Japan, from 25 october 2025 - 13 November 2025 starting in Kyoto

Best Japan Travel Deals
Travel Deals
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your Japan, from 25 october 2025 - 13 November 2025 starting in Kyoto Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go