How many days do you need in 12 days?

This itinerary covers 12 days in 12 days, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for 12 days?

Plan your perfect 12 days trip to 12 days. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

12-Day Ultimate Japan Experience: Tokyo to Kyoto and Beyond

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Tokyo, Japan on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Enjoy fresh sushi and traditional Japanese breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market, open from 5:00am to 2:00pm, offering an authentic start to city exploration.

JPY2000, 1h

10:00am

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo's oldest temple in Asakusa, a cultural hotspot rich in history and vibrant markets, open from 6:00am to 5:00pm.

JPY0, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Asakusa Imahan

Savor traditional sukiyaki at this well-known restaurant in Asakusa, open from 11:00am to 10:00pm.

JPY3500, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Ueno Park and Museums

Visit Ueno Park’s open spaces and choose among museums like Tokyo National Museum, open 9:30am-5:00pm, for art and cultural exhibitions.

JPY620, 2h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Dine at the famous Gonpachi restaurant, known as the inspiration for Kill Bill’s fight scene, featuring traditional Japanese izakaya fare, open until midnight.

JPY4000, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 2: Modern Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on June 9, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Aoyama Flower Market Tea House

Enjoy a unique garden cafe breakfast surrounded by fresh flowers in Aoyama, open from 9:00am.

JPY1500, 1h

10:00am

Visit Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park

Walk through the serene Meiji Shrine, open 6:00am-4:30pm, and explore Yoyogi Park nearby for some nature within the city.

JPY0, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Afuri Ramen Ebisu

Taste the famous yuzu-flavored ramen at Afuri, open from 11:00am-11:00pm, for a refreshing lunch experience.

JPY1200, 1h

2:00pm

Shopping and Sightseeing in Shibuya

Experience the iconic Shibuya Crossing and shop at local stores and department stores like Shibuya 109.

JPY0, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka

Dine at this high-tech conveyor belt sushi restaurant famous for quick service and affordability, open until 11:00pm.

JPY2000, 1h

Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 3: Cultural Dive

Tokyo, Japan on June 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sarabeth’s Lumine Shinjuku

Indulge in Western-style breakfast favorites with a Japanese twist, open 8:00am to 10:00pm.

JPY1800, 1h

9:30am

Tour the Edo-Tokyo Museum

Discover Tokyo’s history and culture in this interactive museum open from 9:30am to 5:30pm (closed Mondays).

JPY600, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Tsuta Michelin Ramen

Enjoy Japan's first Michelin-starred ramen at Tsuta, open 11:00am to 3:00pm (closed Tuesdays).

JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Odaiba

Explore Odaiba’s futuristic attractions, shopping centers, and enjoy views of Rainbow Bridge; most facilities open 10:00am to 9:00pm.

JPY0 - variable for attractions, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at Bills Odaiba

Dine at the popular Bills restaurant with great views and delicious modern Australian dishes, open until 10:00pm.

JPY4000, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan on June 11, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Nikko

Take the Tobu Railway or JR Line from Tokyo to Nikko, approximately 2 hours of scenic travel.

JPY2500, 2h

9:30am

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore the lavishly decorated Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, open 8:00am to 5:00pm.

JPY1300, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Enjoy casual local cuisine specializing in yakitori and other Japanese dishes, open 11:00am to 3:00pm.

JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji

Take a bus to see beautiful Kegon Falls and serene Lake Chuzenji; bus service operates 8:00am to 5:00pm.

JPY1000, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Head back to Tokyo by train to rest for the next day's journey.

JPY2500, 2h

Find Hotels in Nikko

Day 5: To Hakone Relaxation

Hakone, Japan on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel in Tokyo

Enjoy a traditional Japanese or Western-style breakfast at your hotel before departure.

Included, 1h

10:00am

Train to Hakone via Odawara

Travel from Tokyo to Hakone by Shinkansen to Odawara and then local train and bus, total approx 2 hours.

JPY3500, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Gyoza Center, Hakone

Try a variety of gyoza dumplings in a casual setting, open 11:00am to 8:00pm.

JPY1200, 1h

2:00pm

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Enjoy art and nature combined in this unique outdoor museum with sculptures and hot spring foot baths, open 9:00am to 5:00pm.

JPY1600, 2h

4:30pm

Check into Ryokan with Onsen

Experience Japanese hospitality at a traditional Ryokan, relax in natural hot springs for the ultimate unwind.

JPY15000, overnight

7:00pm

Kaiseki Dinner at Ryokan

Savor a multi-course traditional Japanese dinner made with seasonal ingredients, included with most ryokan stays.

Included, 2h

Find Hotels in Hakone

Day 6: Hakone Sightseeing

Hakone, Japan on June 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ryokan

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast served at your ryokan.

Included, 1h

9:30am

Hakone Ropeway and Owakudani

Take the ropeway for spectacular views and explore the volcanic valley of Owakudani with its famous black eggs, open 9:00am-5:00pm.

JPY2100, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Tamura Ginkatsutei

Enjoy tofu-based dishes and local specialties in a traditional setting, open from 11:00am to 3:00pm.

JPY2500, 1h

1:30pm

Lake Ashi Cruise

Relax on a scenic pirate ship cruise across Lake Ashi with Mount Fuji views (weather permitting), operating 9:00am to 4:30pm.

JPY1000, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Hakone Shrine

Discover the peaceful lakeside Hakone Shrine famous for its torii gate in the water, open 24h with best daylight visiting hours.

JPY0, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at local izakaya

Experience local flavors at a nearby izakaya, such as Izakaya Shoyo Hakone, open until 9:00pm.

JPY3000, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Hakone

Day 7: Journey to Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ryokan

Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast before checkout.

Included, 1h

10:00am

Travel to Kyoto by Shinkansen

Take the Shinkansen from Odawara to Kyoto, approximately 2 hours.

JPY13000, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample Kyoto delicacies at Nishiki Market, open from 9:00am to 6:00pm, perfect for light bites and street food.

JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site with its impressive wooden stage, open 6:00am to 6:00pm.

JPY400, 1h30m

4:00pm

Stroll Higashiyama District

Wander through preserved streets with traditional shops and tea houses.

JPY0, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Kyoto kaiseki cuisine in the historic Gion district, open until 10:00pm.

JPY6500, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Kyoto

Day 8: Temples and Gardens

Kyoto, Japan on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a classic Kyoto coffee shop breakfast with pastries and coffee, open from 7:00am.

JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the enchanting bamboo forest and nearby Tenryuji Temple, open 8:30am to 5:30pm.

JPY500, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Dine on tofu cuisine with scenic views over the river, open 11:00am to 3:00pm.

JPY4000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the famous torii gate pathway at this iconic shrine, open 24 hours.

JPY0, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Experience Kyoto nightlife with a dinner at one of the many traditional eateries open until late.

JPY5000, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Kyoto

Day 9: Kyoto Culture Day

Kyoto, Japan on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Kurasu

Specialty coffee shop serving excellent coffee and light breakfast options, open from 8:00am.

JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at the stunning golden-covered temple and surrounding gardens, open 9:00am to 5:00pm.

JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Visit Ryoan-ji Zen Garden

Contemplate Japan's most famous rock garden, open 8:00am to 5:00pm.

JPY500, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy handmade udon noodles in a traditional setting near Kodai-ji Temple, open 11:30am to 3:00pm.

JPY2200, 1h

2:30pm

Tea Ceremony Experience

Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at Camellia Garden, offered between 1:00pm and 4:00pm by reservation.

JPY3500, 1h

5:00pm

Stroll in Gion District

Spot geisha and enjoy the evening atmosphere of Gion’s historic streets.

JPY0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Savor refined kaiseki cuisine in an intimate Michelin-starred restaurant, reservations required.

JPY12000, 2h

Find Hotels in Kyoto

Day 10: Nara Day Trip

Nara, Japan on June 17, 2025

7:30am

Travel to Nara from Kyoto

Take a train to Nara, approximately 45 minutes.

JPY710, 45m

8:30am

Breakfast at Nakatanidou

Try fresh mochi and light breakfast near Nara Park, open from 9:00am.

JPY800, 1h

9:30am

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Explore the Great Buddha Hall housing one of Japan’s largest Buddha statues, open 7:30am to 5:30pm.

JPY600, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Maguro Koya

Enjoy fresh tuna cuisine near Nara Park, open 11:00am to 9:30pm.

JPY2500, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Nara Park and Deer

Walk through the expansive park and interact with friendly deer roaming freely, open all day.

JPY0, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Visit this historic shrine known for its lanterns, open 6:30am to 6:00pm.

JPY500, 1h

6:00pm

Return to Kyoto

Take train back to Kyoto for dinner and rest.

JPY710, 45m

Find Hotels in Nara

Day 11: Explore Osaka

Osaka, Japan on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Travel to Osaka from Kyoto

Take a rapid train to Osaka, about 30 minutes away.

JPY560, 30m

8:30am

Breakfast at Rikuro Ojisan’s Cheesecake

Try the famous fluffy cheesecake near Osaka Station, open 8:30am to 8:00pm.

JPY600, 1h

10:00am

Visit Osaka Castle

Tour the historic castle and museum with panoramic city views, open 9:00am to 5:00pm.

JPY600, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Dotonbori Street

Sample famous Osaka street food such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki along Dotonbori, open all day.

JPY1500, 1h30m

2:00pm

Explore Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Shop and stroll through Osaka’s largest shopping arcade.

JPY0, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Enjoy Osaka’s famous kushikatsu (fried skewers) in a lively setting, open until 11:00pm.

JPY3500, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Osaka

Day 12: Departure Day

Osaka, Japan on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a relaxing breakfast before your departure.

Included, 1h

9:30am

Last-minute shopping or visit to Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

If time allows, visit this peaceful shrine open 6:00am to 5:00pm, or shop nearby.

JPY0, 2h

12:00pm

Travel to Kansai Airport

Head to Kansai International Airport for departure.

JPY1500, 1h

Find Hotels in Osaka

Step 1 Outline Preview:

12-Day Ultimate Japan Experience: Tokyo to Kyoto and Beyond

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

8:00am

10:00am

12:00pm

2:00pm

6:00pm

Day 2: Modern Tokyo

8:30am

10:00am

12:30pm

2:00pm

6:30pm

Day 3: Cultural Dive

8:00am

9:30am

12:00pm

2:00pm

7:30pm

Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko

7:00am

9:30am

12:00pm

1:30pm

5:00pm

Day 5: To Hakone Relaxation

8:00am

10:00am

12:30pm

2:00pm

4:30pm

7:00pm

Day 6: Hakone Sightseeing

8:00am

9:30am

12:00pm

1:30pm

3:30pm

6:00pm

Day 7: Journey to Kyoto

8:00am

10:00am

12:30pm

2:00pm

4:00pm

7:00pm

Day 8: Temples and Gardens

8:00am

9:30am

12:00pm

2:00pm

6:00pm

Day 9: Kyoto Culture Day

8:00am

9:30am

11:30am

1:00pm

2:30pm

5:00pm

7:00pm

Day 10: Nara Day Trip

7:30am

8:30am

9:30am

12:00pm

1:30pm

4:00pm

6:00pm

Day 11: Explore Osaka

8:00am

8:30am

10:00am

12:30pm

2:00pm

6:30pm

Day 12: Departure Day

8:00am

9:30am

12:00pm