15-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka in October

Day 1: Tokyo Arrival

Tokyo, Japan on October 1, 2016

8:00am

Tsukiji Outer Market Breakfast

Enjoy fresh sushi and Japanese street food at the lively Tsukiji Outer Market, which is vibrant in the morning with vendors selling fresh seafood and produce.
JPY2000, 1h30m

10:00am

Senso-ji Temple

Visit Tokyo’s oldest and most colorful temple located in Asakusa, famous for its large red lantern and vibrant Nakamise shopping street.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Asakusa Imahan

Try sukiyaki or shabu-shabu, traditional Japanese hot pot dishes, at this well-regarded restaurant open from 11:30am to 9pm.
JPY3500, 1h

2:00pm

Ueno Park and Museums

Stroll through Ueno Park and visit the Tokyo National Museum (open 9:30am-5pm), showcasing extensive Japanese art and history collections.
JPY1000, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Dine at the famous Gonpachi restaurant, known as the inspiration for Kill Bill’s fight scene, serving traditional izakaya cuisine with lively ambiance.
JPY4000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Tokyo Modern & Historic

Tokyo, Japan on October 2, 2016

7:30am

Breakfast at Bills Omotesando

Start your day with scrumptious ricotta pancakes or Japanese-style breakfast in this trendy cafe open from 8am.
JPY1800, 1h

9:00am

Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park

Explore the serene Meiji Shrine surrounded by lush forested grounds, followed by a stroll in adjacent Yoyogi Park, open all day.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Harajuku Takeshita Street

Dive into the youthful and quirky fashion scene of Takeshita Street, perfect for shopping and people-watching.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Afuri Ramen Harajuku

Taste the signature yuzu-flavored ramen in a modern setting open at noon until late night.
JPY1200, 45m

3:00pm

Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue

Experience the famous bustling Shibuya Crossing and visit the statue of Hachiko, the loyal dog, a Tokyo icon.
Free, 1h

4:30pm

Roppongi Hills and Mori Art Museum

Visit Mori Tower’s observation deck and Mori Art Museum open until 10pm on weekends for modern art and city views.
JPY1800, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Roppongi Izakaya

Savor a diverse range of small plates and drinks typically available at bustling izakayas, perfect for sampling various flavors.
JPY3500, 1h30m
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Day 3: Day trip to Nikko

Tokyo - Nikko, Japan on October 3, 2016

7:00am

Train to Nikko

Take the Tobu Limited Express SPACIA from Asakusa Station to Nikko (approx. 2 hours), known for its stunning temples and natural scenery.
JPY2500, 2h

9:30am

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore the lavishly decorated Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its amazing carvings and architecture.
JPY1300, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Enjoy casual traditional Japanese dishes like soba noodles and tempura at this popular local spot open for lunch.
JPY1200, 1h

1:30pm

Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji

Take a bus to see Kegon Falls, one of Japan’s three famous waterfalls, and enjoy a walk near scenic Lake Chuzenji.
Bus fare JPY1000, 2h30m

5:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Head back to Tokyo by train, arriving in the evening ready for dinner.
JPY2500, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Omoide Yokocho

Experience traditional small yakitori stalls and gritty retro atmosphere in Shinjuku’s famous alleyway open until midnight.
JPY2500, 1h30m
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Day 4: Travel to Kyoto

Tokyo to Kyoto, Japan on October 4, 2016

8:00am

Shinkansen to Kyoto

Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station (approx. 2h15m) for a comfortable and speedy transfer.
JPY13500, 2h15m

11:00am

Check-in and lunch at Kyoto Station

Enjoy lunch at the Kyoto Ramen Koji food court inside Kyoto Station, sampling a variety of regional ramen styles.
JPY1000, 1h

1:00pm

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Walk through thousands of bright orange torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, open all day and most popular in the afternoon for photos.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Explore Gion District

Wander Gion’s traditional streets and possibly spot geishas heading to appointments during late afternoon and early evening.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Taste exquisite Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine in a cozy setting; reservations recommended as open until around 9pm.
JPY6000, 2h
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Day 5: Kyoto Temples

Kyoto, Japan on October 5, 2016

7:30am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start with a traditional Japanese-style coffee and light breakfast at this iconic Kyoto cafe open from 7am.
JPY1000, 1h

9:00am

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit this stunning temple covered in gold leaf surrounded by beautiful gardens, open from 9am to 5pm.
JPY400, 1h

10:30am

Ryoan-ji Zen Rock Garden

See Japan’s most famous rock garden near Kinkaku-ji, reflecting Zen Buddhist aesthetics and tranquility.
JPY500, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Explore Kyoto's vibrant food market and sample local specialties like yuba, pickles, and fresh mochi.
¥1500, 1h

2:00pm

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit the famous wooden stage offering panoramic views of Kyoto, open until 6pm in October.
JPY400, 2h

5:00pm

Stroll Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka Streets

Enjoy these preserved historic streets with shops and tea houses leading down from Kiyomizu-dera.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Experience traditional Japanese cuisine and lively atmosphere in one of Kyoto’s best-known dining streets.
JPY4000, 1h30m
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Day 6: Arashiyama Nature & Culture

Kyoto, Japan on October 6, 2016

7:30am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee Arashiyama

Enjoy excellent specialty coffee overlooking the picturesque Katsura River, open from 8am.
JPY800, 45m

8:30am

Bamboo Grove Walk

Early morning visit to the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove to avoid crowds and take stunning photos.
Free, 1h

9:30am

Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage temple and its beautiful gardens, open 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

11:30am

Okochi-Sanso Villa

Tour this historic villa with exquisite gardens and views of Kyoto, open 9am to 5pm, admission includes matcha tea.
JPY1000, 1h30m

1:15pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Savor tofu-based cuisine at this riverfront restaurant specializing in elegant Kyoto-style dishes.
JPY3000, 1h30m

3:00pm

Sagano Scenic Railway

Take the scenic train ride through the forested Hozu Gorge, a relaxing way to see autumn foliage in October.
JPY620, 25m

5:00pm

Return to Kyoto center

Head back to the city center to relax and prepare for evening activities.
JPY300, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Katsukura Tonkatsu

Enjoy expertly fried tonkatsu pork cutlets at this beloved Kyoto restaurant open until 9pm.
JPY2500, 1h
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Day 7: Day Trip to Nara

Kyoto - Nara, Japan on October 7, 2016

8:00am

Train to Nara

Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Nara (approx. 45 min), famous for its temples and friendly deer.
JPY710, 45m

9:00am

Todai-ji Temple

See the enormous Daibutsu (Great Buddha) statue housed in one of the world’s largest wooden buildings.
JPY600, 1h30m

11:00am

Nara Park and Deer Feeding

Stroll the expansive park and interact with free-roaming sacred deer known for their gentle nature.
JPY200 (for deer crackers), 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Nakatanidou

Try famous mochi pounding sweets at this popular shop, great for a light and sweet lunch option.
JPY800, 45m

2:00pm

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Visit this UNESCO site known for its many lanterns and tranquil forest setting.
JPY500, 1h

3:30pm

Naramachi Old Town

Wander the preserved merchant district with traditional warehouses and charming shops.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Kyoto

Head back to Kyoto by train for dinner and rest.
JPY710, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Menbakaichidai Fire Ramen

Experience the unique fire ramen where the broth is dramatically flambéed, open till 9:30pm.
JPY1200, 1h
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Day 8: Travel to Osaka

Kyoto to Osaka, Japan on October 8, 2016

9:00am

Train to Osaka

Take the JR Special Rapid Service from Kyoto to Osaka (approx. 30 min), an easy transfer into a bustling metropolis.
JPY560, 30m

10:00am

Osaka Castle

Visit this iconic symbol of Osaka with stunning grounds and a museum inside, open 9am to 5pm.
JPY600, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Dotonbori Street

Sample street food specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki in the lively Dotonbori area.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Explore Osaka’s premier shopping street with a mix of international brands and local boutiques.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Spa World

Unwind in this large public bathhouse and spa offering international themed baths, open till midnight.
JPY1200, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Try Osaka’s famous deep-fried skewers at this popular kushikatsu restaurant located in Shinsekai.
JPY2000, 1h
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Day 9: Osaka Food & Nightlife

Osaka, Japan on October 9, 2016

8:00am

Breakfast at LiLo Coffee Roasters

Enjoy quality coffee and light breakfast to start your day in this popular coffee shop.
JPY800, 1h

9:30am

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Explore one of the world’s largest aquariums featuring diverse marine life, open 10am to 8pm.
JPY2300, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Tempozan Marketplace

Choose from multiple food stalls offering international and Japanese dishes inside this shopping complex.
JPY1200, 1h

1:30pm

Explore America Mura

Visit the funky youth culture district with shops, cafes, and street art, lively in the afternoon.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Visit Umeda Sky Building

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

6:00pm

Dinner at Tsurutontan Udon Noodle Brasserie

Enjoy creative udon dishes in a stylish setting open until 11pm, perfect for dinner.
JPY2000, 1h

8:00pm

Dotonbori Night Walk

Experience the vibrant neon-lit Dotonbori nightlife and try famous street snacks including grilled crab and melon pan.
Free, 2h
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Day 10: Day Trip to Himeji

Osaka - Himeji, Japan on October 10, 2016

8:00am

Train to Himeji

Catch the Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka to Himeji (approx. 30 min), home to the famous white Himeji Castle.
JPY3000, 30m

9:00am

Himeji Castle

Tour Japan’s best-preserved historic castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site open from 9am to 5pm.
JPY1000, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Engyo-chaya

Savor traditional Japanese set meals near the castle, popular for regional ingredients.
JPY2000, 1h

1:30pm

Koko-en Garden

Visit these stunning Edo period-style gardens next to the castle, ideal for relaxing and photography.
JPY300, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Osaka

Head back to Osaka to enjoy the evening after a cultural day out.
JPY3000, 30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Endo Sushi

Dine on some of the freshest sushi at this acclaimed restaurant located inside Osaka’s central marketplace.
JPY4000, 1h30m
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Day 11: Osaka Culture and Shopping

Osaka, Japan on October 11, 2016

8:00am

Breakfast at Gram Café

Delight in fluffy Japanese pancakes at Gram Cafe, open from 8am and known for light, sweet breakfasts.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Visit one of Japan’s oldest shrines with distinctive architecture, peaceful and open all day.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Lunch at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Taste fresh seafood, grilled meats, and sweets at this bustling market open till mid-afternoon.
JPY1500, 1h

1:00pm

Osaka Museum of History

Learn about Osaka’s rich history and development from ancient times, open 9:30am to 5pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

3:00pm

Shopping in Namba

Explore trendy fashion boutiques and electronics shops in the bustling Namba district.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Fukutaro Okonomiyaki

Try the best okonomiyaki in town at this casual but famous spot, open until 10pm.
JPY1800, 1h
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Day 12: Day Trip to Kobe

Osaka - Kobe, Japan on October 12, 2016

9:00am

Train to Kobe

Take the JR Kobe Line from Osaka to Kobe (about 30 min), known for its scenic harbor and famous beef.
JPY410, 30m

10:00am

Kobe Harborland

Enjoy the waterfront shopping and entertainment district with pleasant walking paths and views.
Free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Steakland Kobe

Try authentic Kobe beef at a reasonably priced restaurant open 11:30am to 9pm.
JPY5000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens

Take the ropeway up to beautiful herb gardens and enjoy panoramic city views, open 9am to 5:30pm.
JPY800, 2h

4:30pm

Return to Osaka

Travel back to Osaka for last evening activities.
JPY410, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mizuno Okonomiyaki Dotonbori

Close your Kobe day with another delicious Osaka specialty okonomiyaki in the Dotonbori area.
JPY2000, 1h
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Day 13: Osaka Leisure Day

Osaka, Japan on October 13, 2016

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Morning Osaka

Casual breakfast with Western styles and good coffee, open from 8am.
JPY1000, 1h

10:30am

Universal Studios Japan

Spend a fun-filled day at this popular theme park featuring rides, shows, and Harry Potter attractions, open 8:30am to 9pm.
JPY7600, 7h

6:00pm

Dinner at Universal Citywalk

Choose from many restaurants around the theme park for diverse dinner options.
JPY2000, 1h
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Day 14: Last Day in Osaka

Osaka, Japan on October 14, 2016

8:30am

Breakfast at Streamer Coffee Company

Enjoy latte art and great coffee at this popular local coffee chain.
JPY800, 1h

10:00am

Osaka Tenmangu Shrine & Shopping

Visit this famous shrine and then shop at nearby Tenjinbashi-suji Street, Japan’s longest shopping street.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Imanishi

Traditional Osaka-style cuisine served in a local favorite, open till 3pm.
JPY1800, 1h

2:00pm

Sumiyoshi Park Relaxation

Enjoy a relaxing stroll at this large public park with ponds and historic bridges.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Shopping and Souvenir Hunting

Head back to Shinsaibashi or Dotonbori for last minute shopping and souvenirs.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Zuboraya

Savor Osaka’s famous fugu (blowfish) dishes in this renowned restaurant with traditional ambiance.
JPY7000, 2h
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Day 15: Departure

Osaka, Japan on October 15, 2016

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a light breakfast at your accommodation before departure.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Airport Transfer

Take the train or shuttle to Kansai International Airport for your flight home or onward destination.
JPY1000, 1h
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