Ultimate 2-Week Japan Journey: Tokyo to Kyoto and Beyond

Day 1: Arrival and Tokyo Introduction

Tokyo, Japan on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Enjoy fresh sushi or tamagoyaki from the market stalls; a fantastic introduction to Tokyo’s food culture. Opens 5:00am - 2:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h

10:00am

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple in Asakusa, famous for its thunder gate and vibrant shopping street, Nakamise Dori. Opens from 6:00am.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Asakusa Imahan

Savor sukiyaki, a traditional Japanese hot pot, at this renowned restaurant near Senso-ji.
JPY4000, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Akihabara

Dive into the hub of anime, electronics, and gaming culture. Ideal for gadget lovers and pop culture enthusiasts.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Known as the 'Kill Bill' restaurant, offers great yakitori and robatayaki dishes in a traditional setting.
JPY3500, 1.5h

Day 2: Tokyo Modern & Traditional

Tokyo, Japan on June 12, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Bills Omotesando

Enjoy fluffy ricotta pancakes and excellent coffee at this famous Aussie café. Opens 8:30am.
JPY2000, 1h

10:00am

Visit Meiji Shrine & Yoyogi Park

A peaceful shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji surrounded by a large forested park ideal for a tranquil morning walk.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Afuri Ebisu

Taste yuzu-flavored ramen at this well-known ramen shop popular for its light broth.
JPY1200, 1h

2:00pm

TeamLab Planets Tokyo

Experience immersive digital art exhibitions blending technology and creativity. Opens 10:00am to 7:00pm.
JPY3200, 2h

5:00pm

Stroll in Shibuya and Shinjuku

Enjoy bustling shopping streets, including Shibuya Crossing and vibrant nightlife in Shinjuku.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Omoide Yokocho

Sample Yakitori and traditional izakaya fare in this nostalgic alley in Shinjuku.
JPY2500, 1.5h

Day 3: Tokyo to Hakone

Hakone, Japan on June 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at your accommodation before traveling.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Hakone by Odakyu Romancecar

Direct express train from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto; travel time approximately 2 hours.
JPY2200, 2h

10:30am

Check in and Visit Hakone Open-Air Museum

Outdoor sculpture park with stunning art installations set against mountains and nature. Opens 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY1600, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Café de L'Ambre

Enjoy local cuisine with Japanese twists in a cozy café setting near Hakone-Yumoto.
JPY1800, 1h

2:30pm

Hakone Ropeway & Owakudani Valley

Take the scenic ropeway to volcanic valley with sulfur vents and black egg specialty. Ropeway open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY2100, 2h

5:30pm

Onsen Bath Experience

Relax in a traditional hot spring bath at your ryokan or public onsen.
JPY1000, 2h

7:30pm

Kaiseki Dinner at Ryokan

A multi-course traditional Japanese dinner served at your accommodation for an authentic gastronomic experience.
Included, 2h

Day 4: Hakone to Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ryokan

Enjoy a hearty Japanese-style breakfast before check-out.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Travel to Kyoto by Shinkansen

From Odawara Station take the bullet train to Kyoto, journey about 2 hours.
JPY12000, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample fresh seafood, local snacks, and sweets at Kyoto’s vibrant 'Kitchen of Japan'.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Famous temple with panoramic views and historic architecture, open 6:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY400, 2h

4:00pm

Walk through Gion District

Explore Kyoto’s geisha district with traditional shops and tea houses, great for early evening sightseeing.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Sushi

Enjoy exceptional sushi in a cozy local restaurant in Gion.
JPY3500, 1.5h

Day 5: Kyoto Temples and Gardens

Kyoto, Japan on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Classic coffee shop serving traditional breakfast sets in central Kyoto. Opens 7:00am.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Iconic thousands-of-red-torii-gates shrine open 24 hrs, excellent for early morning peaceful hiking.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Yudofu Sagano

Specialty tofu restaurant near Tenryu-ji Temple, a must-try in Kyoto.
JPY2000, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple

A serene bamboo forest walk followed by visiting a UNESCO temple with beautiful gardens. Opens 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 3h

5:00pm

Relax at Katsura River-side

Stroll and unwind by the riverbank, a peaceful end to an active day.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine at one of the many traditional restaurants in this narrow alley known for Kyoto cuisine.
JPY4000, 2h

Day 6: Nara Day Trip

Nara, Japan on June 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kyoto hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for day trip to Nara.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Nara by train

Train journey of about 45 minutes from Kyoto to Nara Station.
JPY710, 45m

9:30am

Visit Todai-ji Temple

World’s largest wooden building housing a giant Buddha statue; opens 7:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY600, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Sanjo Overpass area

Enjoy local specialties like kakinoha sushi or soba noodles at a nearby restaurant.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Nara Park and Deer Feeding

Peaceful park with freely roaming deer, famous and fun for visitors. Park open all day.
JPY300 for deer crackers, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Famous Shinto shrine with hundreds of bronze lanterns. Opens 6:30am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

5:30pm

Return to Kyoto

Train back to Kyoto; relax on journey.
JPY710, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Kyoto Station Ramen Street

Variety of ramen options in a vibrant food court setting.
JPY1200, 1h

Day 7: Kyoto to Osaka

Osaka, Japan on June 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kyoto Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before travel.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Travel from Kyoto to Osaka

Short train ride of ~30 minutes to Osaka Station.
JPY560, 30m

10:30am

Visit Osaka Castle

Iconic landmark with historical exhibits and panoramic views. Opens 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY600, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Dotonbori Street

Sample famous takoyaki and okonomiyaki street foods along lively canal-side district.
JPY1500, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Popular shopping street with local boutiques, cafes, and department stores.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Umeda Sky Building

Stunning architecture with an open-air observation deck at sunset. Open 10:00am to 10:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Experience Osaka’s specialty of deep-fried skewers in lively environment.
JPY3000, 1.5h

Day 8: Osaka Culinary & Cultural

Osaka, Japan on June 18, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Gram Café

Famous for thick and fluffy pancakes, a delightful start to your day. Opens 9:00am.
JPY1500, 1h

10:00am

Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

One of the world’s largest aquariums featuring marine life from the Pacific Rim. Open 10:00am to 8:00pm.
JPY2400, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Tempozan Marketplace

Variety of local and international foods near the aquarium.
JPY1500, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

One of Japan’s oldest shrines known for its unique architecture. Open 6:00am to 5:00pm.
Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Explore Amerika-mura

Osaka’s youth culture and fashion district with vibrant street art and shops.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Matsuzakagyu Yakiniku M

Indulge in high-quality Matsusaka beef BBQ, a true Osaka delicacy.
JPY6000, 2h

Day 9: Osaka to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Relaxed breakfast before departure to Tokyo.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Shinkansen to Tokyo

Bullet train back to Tokyo taking approximately 3 hours.
JPY14000, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Tokyo Station Ramen Street

Wide range of ramen restaurants inside the station for quick delicious meals.
JPY1200, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Odaiba

Futuristic entertainment complex with shopping, views of Rainbow Bridge, and teamLab Borderless digital art museum (check opening).
JPY3200 for teamLab, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Sushi Zanmai Tsukiji

Popular sushi chain offering fresh fish any time of day.
JPY3000, 1.5h

Day 10: Tokyo Exploration

Tokyo, Japan on June 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sarabeth’s

Popular brunch spot in Marunouchi known for western-style breakfasts and pastries. Opens 8:00am.
JPY2500, 1h

9:30am

Visit Imperial Palace and East Gardens

Walk around the historic palace moat and explore beautiful gardens open 9:00am to 4:30pm (closed Mon/Fri).
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Kyubey Ginza

One of Tokyo’s top sushi restaurants, best for those seeking exceptional quality. Reservation recommended.
JPY7000, 1.5h

2:00pm

Shopping in Ginza

Explore luxury boutiques and department stores in Tokyo’s premier shopping district.
Free, 3h

5:30pm

Visit Roppongi Hills and Mori Art Museum

Rooftop city views and contemporary art exhibitions, open till 10pm on some days.
JPY2000, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Afuri Ebisu (repeat for ramen lovers)

Delicious yuzu ramen in an atmospheric setting, perfect for ending the day.
JPY1200, 1h

Day 11: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan on June 21, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast at hotel

Prepare for a full day excursion to Nikko.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Train to Nikko

Approximately 2 hours by train from Tokyo with a transfer at Utsunomiya.
JPY2700, 2h

10:15am

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Lavishly decorated UNESCO World Heritage site dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu. Open 8:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY1300, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Local favorite eateries offering yakitori and soba noodles near the shrine.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Kegon Falls & Lake Chuzenji

Enjoy the scenic beauty of waterfalls and lake views; best accessed by bus. Falls viewing platform open all day.
JPY600 for bus and entrance to observatory, 3h

5:30pm

Return to Tokyo

Train journey back to Tokyo for evening relaxation.
JPY2700, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner near hotel

Choose any local restaurant near your accommodation to rest after the long day.
JPY2500, 1h

Day 12: Tokyo Leisure & Shopping

Tokyo, Japan on June 22, 2025

9:00am

Brunch at Aoyama Flower Market Tea House

A floral café offering beautiful ambiance and healthy menu options. Opens 10:00am.
JPY2000, 1h

10:30am

Visit Harajuku Takeshita Street

Youth fashion and quirky shops capturing Tokyo’s pop culture vibe, open all day.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Maisen Tonkatsu

Enjoy some of the best tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet) in Tokyo, located near Harajuku station.
JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Omotesando Avenue

Shopping along a stylish tree-lined street with luxury brands and architecture.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Visit Nezu Museum

Beautiful museum with traditional and contemporary Japanese art plus tranquil garden. Open 10:00am to 5:00pm, closed Mon.
JPY1000, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Uobei Shibuya

Fun and affordable conveyor-belt sushi experience in Shibuya area.
JPY1500, 1h

Day 13: Day Trip to Kamakura

Kamakura, Japan on June 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Early meal to prepare for the day trip.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Train to Kamakura

Approx. 1 hour train ride from Tokyo to this historic coastal town.
JPY940, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kotoku-in Temple and Great Buddha

Famous giant bronze Buddha statue, one of Japan’s iconic sights, open 8:00am to 5:30pm.
JPY200, 1h

10:45am

Visit Hase-dera Temple

Beautiful temple with ocean views and seasonal flowers, open 8:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY300, 1.5h

12:30pm

Lunch at Kamakura Komachi Dori

Vibrant street lined with cafés and shops offering local treats and light meals.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Walk the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Main Shinto shrine of Kamakura set in large park grounds with cultural significance.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Return to Tokyo

Train back to Tokyo for last night.
JPY940, 1h

5:00pm

Relax at hotel or nearby café

Time to rest and pack.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner at New York Grill in Park Hyatt

Experience luxurious dining with Tokyo skyline views, famous from ‘Lost in Translation.’ Reservation required.
JPY15000, 2h

Day 14: Departure Day

Tokyo, Japan on June 24, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Final breakfast in Japan with typical Japanese or continental choices.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Last minute shopping at Airport Duty Free

Pick up souvenirs and gifts before departure.
Variable, 1h

10:30am

Travel to Tokyo Narita or Haneda Airport

Allow ample time for airport security and check-in.
JPY3000 by train/bus, 1h

12:30pm

Departure

Fly out with wonderful memories of Japan.
Variable, N/A