12-Day Japan Travel Itinerary: Exploring Yokohama, Tokyo & Kyoto with Onsen and Cultural Highlights

Day 1: Yokohama Exploration

Yokohama, Japan on June 9, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Tama Plaza

Start your trip with breakfast at one of the stylish cafés in Tama Plaza, offering fresh pastries and Japanese coffee to energize your day.
JPY1000, 1h

10:30am

Audi Showroom Visit

Visit the sleek Audi Showroom to check out the latest models and experience cutting-edge automotive technology.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Yokohama Chinatown

Enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine at one of the famous restaurants in Yokohama Chinatown, the largest in Japan with vibrant streets and delicious food.
JPY1500, 1.5h

2:00pm

Cup Noodles Museum

Explore the interactive Cup Noodles Museum, where you can learn about the history of instant noodles and even create your own custom cup.
JPY500, 2h

4:30pm

Stroll in Minato Mirai

Walk around the Minato Mirai area nearby for scenic waterfront views and modern architecture.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at local Izakaya in Yokohama

Relish traditional Japanese izakaya dishes with a cozy atmosphere to end your day.
JPY2000, 1.5h
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Day 2: Yokohama to Tokyo

Yokohama to Tokyo, Japan on June 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tama Plaza

Enjoy a light breakfast at a café in Tama Plaza before heading out to Tokyo.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Travel to Tokyo

Take a direct train from Yokohama to Tokyo (approx. 30 min).
JPY500, 0h30m

10:30am

Visit to Odaiba

Explore Odaiba's entertainment and shopping complexes and visit the replica Statue of Liberty.
Free entrance; expenses for activities vary, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza

Diverse dining options including Japanese and international cuisine with a great view of the Gundam statue.
JPY1500, 1h

3:00pm

Don Quijote Tokyo Shopping

Visit the famous discount store Don Quijote for souvenirs and quirky finds.
Variable depending on purchases, 1.5h

5:00pm

Evening at Shibuya

Experience the iconic Shibuya Crossing and visit the Hachiko Statue, a symbol of loyalty.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Shibuya

Dine in one of Shibuya’s popular eateries specializing in ramen or sushi.
JPY2000, 1.5h
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Day 3: Tokyo Culture and Shopping

Tokyo, Japan on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast near Skytree

Start with breakfast at a café nearby Tokyo Skytree offering Japanese and western options.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Tokyo Skytree Visit

Ascend the tallest TV tower in Tokyo for panoramic views of the city. Opens 8:00am to 10:00pm.
JPY2100, 2h

11:30am

Asakusa Temple

Visit Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, and enjoy the Nakamise shopping street. Open 6:00am-5:00pm.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch in Asakusa

Try traditional tempura or soba in a local Asakusa restaurant.
JPY1500, 1h

3:00pm

Explore local shops

Shop cultural souvenirs and crafts in Asakusa’s old town atmosphere.
Variable, 1.5h

5:00pm

Return to hotel and relax

Enjoy some rest before dinner.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at local Izakaya

Enjoy casual dining with a range of dishes and drinks in an izakaya near your hotel.
JPY2000, 1.5h
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Day 4: Day Trip: Hakone and Kamakura

Hakone and Kamakura, Japan on June 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and travel to Hakone

Early breakfast and then a train trip to Hakone. Travel approx 1.5 hours.
JPY2000, 2h

9:30am

Hakone Roman Car Ride

Experience the Hakone Tozan Cable Car for stunning views. Open 9:00am-4:30pm.
JPY3000, 1h

11:00am

Owakudani Valley and Black Boiled Eggs

Visit the volcanic valley to try the famous black boiled eggs, believed to prolong life.
JPY500, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch in Hakone

Enjoy local noodles or tempura at a Hakone restaurant.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Travel to Kamakura

Take train to Kamakura for a 1-hour ride.
JPY1200, 1h

3:15pm

Great Buddha at Kotoku-in

Visit the famous large outdoor bronze Buddha statue. Open 8:00am-5:30pm.
JPY200, 1h

4:30pm

Return to Tokyo

Head back to Tokyo for dinner.
JPY1200, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner in Tokyo

Enjoy sushi or grilled fish at a restaurant near your hotel.
JPY2500, 1.5h
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Day 5: Travel to Kyoto

Tokyo to Kyoto, Japan on June 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast near hotel

Have a quick breakfast at your hotel or nearby café.
JPY1000, 0h45m

8:30am

Travel to Kyoto by Shinkansen

Take Japan’s bullet train (approx. 2.5 hours) to Kyoto for a smooth and fast transfer.
JPY13000, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch in Kyoto

Enjoy traditional Kaiseki or a Kyoto-style bento lunch near your accommodation.
JPY2000, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)

Explore the iconic golden temple surrounded by tranquil gardens. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
JPY400, 1.5h

3:30pm

Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji)

Visit the serene Silver Pavilion and its beautiful moss garden. Open 8:30am-5:00pm.
JPY500, 1.5h

5:30pm

Dinner near Gion

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Gion featuring local Kyoto cuisine and possibly glimpse Geisha culture.
JPY3000, 1.5h
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Day 6: Kyoto Temples and Bamboo Forest

Kyoto, Japan on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local café

Try a Japanese-style breakfast with rice, miso soup, and grilled fish.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Walk through the breathtaking bamboo groves in Arashiyama; a peaceful and iconic Kyoto attraction open all day.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch by Katsura River

Enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant offering traditional Kyoto dishes.
JPY1800, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore the famous Zen temple with a beautiful garden nearby the Bamboo Forest. Open 8:30am-5:30pm.
JPY500, 1.5h

3:30pm

Stroll the Philosopher’s Path

A scenic walking route lined with cherry trees and temples, perfect for relaxing and sightseeing.
Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Return to accommodation

Rest before dinner.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner in central Kyoto

Indulge in Yudofu (tofu hot pot) or other Kyoto specialties at a local restaurant.
JPY2500, 1.5h
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Day 7: Kyoto Cultural Day

Kyoto, Japan on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before a busy cultural day.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Nijo Castle

Visit the historic Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see stunning architecture and gardens. Open 8:45am-5:00pm.
JPY1000, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample various street foods and pick up unique souvenirs at Kyoto’s famous food market.
JPY1500, 1.5h

2:00pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this stunning temple with panoramic views of Kyoto. Open 6:00am-6:00pm.
JPY400, 1.5h

4:00pm

Shopping and Tea in Higashiyama

Enjoy shopping for souvenirs and relax in traditional tea houses in the charming Higashiyama district.
Variable, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine in one of the atmospheric riverside restaurants with seasonal Kyoto dishes.
JPY3000, 1.5h
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Day 8: Kyoto Onsen and Relaxation

Kyoto, Japan on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local bakery

Enjoy fresh bread and coffee at a popular Kyoto bakery.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Travel to Kurama Onsen

Take a scenic train ride to Kurama Onsen for a traditional hot spring experience.
JPY1000, 1.5h

11:00am

Onsen Experience

Relax in the healing waters of Kurama Onsen surrounded by nature. Open daily 10:00am-9:00pm.
JPY1200, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Kurama

Try local soba noodles at a quaint Kurama restaurant.
JPY1500, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Kyoto

Head back to Kyoto city center.
JPY1000, 1.5h

5:00pm

Leisure time

Relax or explore local shops near your accommodation.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner in Kyoto

Enjoy modern Japanese fusion cuisine at a stylish restaurant.
JPY3500, 1.5h
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Day 9: Free Day in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on June 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your hotel

Take a relaxing breakfast at your accommodation.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Optional visits or shopping

Use this day for personal interests such as extra temple visits, museums, or shopping in Kyoto station area.
Variable, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Kyoto Station

Sample diverse dining options in the Kyoto Station complex.
JPY1500, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Kyoto Railway Museum or Kyoto International Manga Museum

Choose between exploring the rich railway history or manga culture. Museums open ~10:00am-5:00pm.
JPY1200, 3h

6:00pm

Return to hotel and rest

Relax before your last dinner in Kyoto.
Free, 1.5h

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner

Celebrate your final full day with a special kaiseki multi-course dinner.
JPY5000, 2h
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Day 10: Return to Tokyo

Kyoto to Tokyo, Japan on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and pack

Enjoy breakfast and prepare for check-out.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Travel back to Tokyo by Shinkansen

Return on the bullet train to Tokyo, approx 2.5 hours.
JPY13000, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch in Tokyo

Dine near Tokyo Station at one of the many restaurants offering sushi or tempura.
JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Ginza shopping district

Explore high-end shops, department stores, and cafes in Ginza.
Variable, 3h

5:30pm

Relax at hotel

Rest and freshen up before dinner.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner in Ginza

Enjoy upscale Japanese dining or international cuisine in one of Ginza’s restaurants.
JPY4000, 2h
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Day 11: Final Tokyo Sightseeing

Tokyo, Japan on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park

Experience Shinto culture at Meiji Shrine and stroll Yoyogi Park, peaceful spots amid the city hustle. Shrine open 5:00am-6:00pm.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch in Harajuku

Try trendy cafes or crepes in the youthful Harajuku area.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Shop at Takeshita Street

Explore eclectic fashion boutiques and souvenir shops in Harajuku.
Variable, 2h

3:30pm

Visit Imperial Palace East Gardens

Discover beautiful gardens in the heart of Tokyo, open 9:00am-4:30pm, closed Mondays.
Free, 1.5h

5:30pm

Return to hotel for packing

Prepare for next day’s departure.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner near hotel

Enjoy a final casual dinner in Tokyo, perhaps sushi or tempura.
JPY2500, 1.5h
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Day 12: Departure

Tokyo to Vietnam on June 20, 2025

6:00am

Early breakfast at hotel

Have a light breakfast before your airport transfer.
Included, 0h30m

7:00am

Travel to Tokyo Airport

Take airport limousine or train to Narita or Haneda Airport for flight to Vietnam.
JPY3000, 1h

9:30am

Flight departure

Board your flight back to Vietnam with wonderful memories of Japan.
Variable
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