14-Day Immersive Japan Itinerary: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka Exploration

Day 1: Arrival & Tokyo Intro

Tokyo, Japan on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Enjoy fresh sushi and traditional Japanese breakfast items at this famous Tokyo market, open from 5:00 AM, perfect for starting your culinary journey.
JPY1500, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo's oldest temple in Asakusa with its iconic Kaminarimon gate and vibrant Nakamise shopping street. Open 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Asakusa Imahan

Savor certified Wagyu beef sukiyaki in a traditional setting near Senso-ji, open from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
JPY3000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Stroll in Ueno Park and visit Tokyo National Museum

Relax in Ueno Park and explore Japan’s finest collections of art and archaeology at the Tokyo National Museum. Museum open 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, closed Mondays.
JPY620, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Experience a lively izakaya atmosphere with a menu that inspired the movie Kill Bill. Open till midnight.
JPY4000, 1h30m

Day 2: Modern Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on June 17, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Bills Odaiba

Start your day with Australian-style breakfast and famous ricotta hotcakes with views of Tokyo Bay, from 8:00 AM.
JPY2000, 1h0m

10:00am

TeamLab Borderless Digital Art Museum

Immerse in a breathtaking digital art museum featuring interactive light installations. Open 10:00 AM-7:00 PM, closed Tuesdays.
JPY3200, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at DiverCity Food Court

Choose from a variety of Japanese and international foods at DiverCity Mall in Odaiba.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Tokyo Tower & Zojoji Temple

Visit the iconic Tokyo Tower with panoramic views followed by the historic Zojoji Temple at its base. Tower open 9:00 AM-11:00 PM.
JPY1200, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Ichiran Ramen Shibuya

Enjoy individual cubicles and custom ramen bowls at this famous ramen chain open till 12 AM.
JPY1000, 1h0m

Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Tokyo, Japan on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe de l'Ambre

Savor traditional Japanese drip coffee with light breakfast in this historic Ginza café, open from 12:00 PM (note: opens later, so alternative breakfast at Ginza Kojyu at 7:30 AM).
JPY1500, 1h0m

10:00am

Walk Ginza district

Window shop luxury boutiques and visit the Ginza Six shopping complex; ideal for both cultural and modern experience.
Free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Sushi Dai

Experience some of the freshest sushi near the early morning wholesale market Tsukiji, open 5:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
JPY3500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Meiji Shrine & Yoyogi Park

Explore the peaceful Meiji Shrine shrine grounds and stroll Yoyogi Park nearby. Shrine open dawn to dusk.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Harajuku Takeshita Street

Discover quirky fashion boutiques and street snacks in this youthful and trendy area.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Afuri Ramen Ebisu

Taste the famous yuzu-flavored ramen in a modern setting, open till 11 PM.
JPY1200, 1h0m

Day 4: Day Trip: Nikko

Nikko, Japan on June 19, 2025

7:00am

Depart Tokyo for Nikko

Take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Utsunomiya, then transfer to the JR Nikko Line, total travel around 2 hours.
JPY5600, 2h30m

9:30am

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its elaborate carvings and the resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Open 8:00 AM-5:00 PM.
JPY1300, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Casual dining with local Nikko cuisine near the main shrine, open 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji

Visit one of Japan's famous waterfalls and enjoy the scenic views of Lake Chuzenji, accessible by bus.
Transport approx JPY1200, 2h0m

4:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Travel back to Tokyo for overnight rest.
Included in round trip fare, 2h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Uobei Shibuya

Experience conveyor belt sushi in a lively setting open till midnight.
JPY1500, 1h0m

Day 5: Tokyo to Kyoto

Tokyo to Kyoto, Japan on June 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a traditional Japanese or western style breakfast before departure.
Included in hotel, 1h0m

10:00am

Shinkansen to Kyoto

Travel via the Nozomi Shinkansen; approx 2 hours 30 mins for scenic and efficient journey west.
JPY14080, 2h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Kyoto Station Isetan

Enjoy Kyoto-style kaiseki bentos or ramen in the station’s food floor, open 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Visit iconic thousands of red torii gates trail leading up the sacred Mount Inari. Open dawn to dusk.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Tanto

Traditional Kyoto cuisine in a quaint Gion setting, open till 10 PM.
JPY3500, 1h30m

Day 6: Kyoto Temples

Kyoto, Japan on June 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Classic Kyoto coffee shop known for its blend coffee and light breakfast, open 7:30 AM-9:00 PM.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the iconic golden temple with serene gardens, open 9:00 AM-5:00 PM.
JPY400, 1h0m

11:00am

Ryoanji Temple

Experience famous rock garden and peaceful surroundings, next to Kinkaku-ji. Open 8:00 AM-5:00 PM.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Delicious udon noodles with traditional Kyoto flair, near Kodai-ji temple, open 11:30 AM-7:30 PM.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Walk Philosopher's Path and visit Ginkaku-ji

Enjoy a scenic stroll along the canal path leading to the Silver Pavilion, open 8:30 AM-5:00 PM.
JPY500, 2h0m

5:00pm

Explore Gion district

Wander through historic streets, spotting traditional tea houses and possible Geisha sightings.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Select from various traditional and contemporary dining options in this famous dining street along the Kamogawa River.
JPY4000, 1h30m

Day 7: Arashiyama & Nature

Kyoto, Japan on June 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee Arashiyama

Start early with specialty coffee by the scenic Katsura River, open 8:00 AM-6:00 PM.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:00am

Bamboo Grove Walk

Walk through the iconic bamboo forest, an ethereal experience best enjoyed early to avoid crowds.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Tenryuji Temple & Gardens

Explore this UNESCO site with stunning gardens, open 8:30 AM-5:30 PM.
JPY500, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Shigetsu (Zen Buddhist cuisine)

Taste shojin ryori, traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine inside Tenryuji Temple, reservation recommended.
JPY3000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Monkey Park Iwatayama

Hike up to see wild Japanese macaques with city views, open 9:00 AM-4:00 PM.
JPY550, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to city center

Relax or explore local shops after returning to central Kyoto.
Transport approx JPY500, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Kyoboshi Tempura

Enjoy high-quality tempura in a traditional setting, open till 9 PM.
JPY6000, 1h30m

Day 8: Nara Day Trip

Nara, Japan on June 23, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Nara

Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto to Nara; approx 1 hour journey.
JPY720, 1h0m

8:30am

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Home of the massive Great Buddha statue and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Open 7:30 AM-5:30 PM.
JPY600, 1h0m

10:00am

Nara Park with free roaming deer

Feed and photograph the friendly deer that roam the park freely.
Deer crackers JPY150, 1h0m

11:30am

Lunch at Nakatanidou (mochi)

Taste freshly pounded yomogi mochi at this famous shop, open 9:00 AM-5:00 PM.
JPY700, 0h30m

12:30pm

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Famous shrine with stone and bronze lanterns, open 6:30 AM-5:00 PM.
JPY500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Return to Kyoto

Rest of afternoon for leisure or shopping in Kyoto.
Included in fare, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Indulge in refined kaiseki cuisine, reservation recommended.
JPY8000, 1h30m

Day 9: Kyoto Free & Local Culture

Kyoto, Japan on June 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon

Relax with matcha tea and light breakfast in a chic cafe, open 9:00 AM-7:00 PM.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Nishiki Market

Discover a variety of local foods, crafts, and souvenirs at Kyoto’s famous market. Most shops open by 10:00 AM.
Free to browse, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Daiyasu

Try local Kyoto-style sushi known as sabazushi at this small restaurant, open 11:30 AM-2:00 PM.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace

Stroll the gardens of the former imperial residence. Palace grounds open 9:00 AM-5:00 PM, require prior reservation for guided tours.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Pontocho & Kamo River

Walk along the riverside and alleys famous for traditional teahouses and lively nightlife.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Menbaka Fire Ramen

Watch the fiery ramen cooking spectacle with a spicy soy sauce base, open till 9:00 PM.
JPY1200, 1h0m

Day 10: Kyoto to Osaka

Kyoto to Osaka, Japan on June 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Traditional Japanese breakfast before travel.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Train to Osaka

Short 30-minute train ride from Kyoto to Osaka via JR Special Rapid Service.
JPY560, 0h30m

10:00am

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore historic castle and museum with panoramic views. Open 9:00 AM-5:00 PM.
JPY600, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Dotonbori Street

Famous for street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Many stalls and restaurants open 11:00 AM-10:00 PM.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

A covered shopping street with international brands and local stores.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Kani Doraku Dotonbori

Famous crab restaurant featuring fresh seafood, open till 10 PM.
JPY4000, 1h30m

Day 11: Osaka Attractions

Osaka, Japan on June 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Li Lo Coffee Roasters

Enjoy specialty coffee with light breakfast near Namba, open 8:00 AM-6:00 PM.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Universal Studios Japan

Enjoy rides and shows at this popular theme park. Open 8:30 AM-9:00 PM.
JPY8800, 7h0m

5:30pm

Return to hotel & freshen up

Rest after a fun-packed day.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mizuno Okonomiyaki

Try Osaka’s famous savory pancake on Dotonbori street, open till 10:00 PM.
JPY1500, 1h0m

Day 12: Osaka Highlights

Osaka, Japan on June 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Gram Cafe & Pancakes

Popular for fluffy pancakes, located in Tennoji, open 10:00 AM-7:00 PM; arrive early for breakfast service.
JPY1500, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

One of the world’s largest aquariums, open 10:00 AM-8:00 PM (last admission 7:00 PM).
JPY2400, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Try fresh seafood and street snacks at this vibrant market, open 9:00 AM-6:00 PM.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Umeda Sky Building Floating Garden

Visit the rooftop observatory for panoramic city views, open 10:00 AM-10:30 PM.
JPY1500, 1h0m

4:00pm

Shopping at Grand Front Osaka

Upscale shopping and dining complex near Umeda station.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Tsurutontan Udon Noodle Brasserie

Sample creative udon dishes in a stylish space, open till 11 PM.
JPY2000, 1h0m

Day 13: Day Trip to Himeji

Himeji, Japan on June 28, 2025

8:00am

Train to Himeji

Take the JR Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka to Himeji in about 30 minutes.
JPY3000, 0h30m

9:00am

Himeji Castle Visit

Explore Japan’s most spectacular castle, a UNESCO site open 9:00 AM-5:00 PM.
JPY1000, 2h0m

11:30am

Koko-en Garden

Beautiful traditional Japanese garden next to the castle, open 9:00 AM-5:00 PM.
JPY300, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at local soba restaurant

Taste buckwheat noodles in a cozy local eatery nearby.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Return to Osaka

Afternoon at leisure after return.
Included in fare, 0h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at local izakaya

Enjoy casual Japanese pub cuisine near your hotel, open till late.
JPY2500, 1h30m

Day 14: Departure Preparation

Osaka, Japan on June 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before packing.
Included, 1h0m

10:00am

Last minute shopping in Namba

Pick up souvenirs and gifts at Namba Parks and nearby shops.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Endo Sushi at Osaka Central Fish Market

Savor some of the freshest sushi in the city, open 5:00 AM-2:00 PM.
JPY3500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Return to hotel and prepare for departure

Finish packing and head to airport.
Transport to airport varies, 2h0m