Two-Week Immersive Japan Itinerary: Tokyo to Kyoto and Beyond

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Tokyo, Japan on October 1, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Start your trip with fresh sushi or tamagoyaki at one of the many stalls open early at Tsukiji Outer Market, immersing yourself in Tokyo's vibrant food culture. Open from 5:00am to 2:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h30m

11:00am

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo’s oldest temple in the historic Asakusa district, a beautiful place to soak in traditional architecture and vibrant markets. Open from 6:00am to 5:00pm.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Asakusa Imahan

Enjoy sukiyaki, a quintessential Japanese beef hotpot, at this iconic Asakusa restaurant famed for its high-quality wagyu. Open 11:00am to 10:00pm.
JPY4000, 1h30m

3:30pm

Walk around Ueno Park

Stroll through Ueno Park to enjoy museums and seasonal nature; visit the Tokyo National Museum if interested, open till 5:00pm.
JPY620 for Museum, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Experience a lively atmosphere and delicious izakaya dishes that inspired the famous fight scene in Kill Bill. Open till late.
JPY3500, 1h30m
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Day 2: Modern Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on October 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe de l'Ambre

Enjoy a traditional coffee experience at this classic Tokyo café known for expertly roasted blends. Opens 8:00am.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue

Witness the world-famous scramble crossing and visit the statue of Hachiko, the loyal dog, iconic symbols of Tokyo's vibrancy. Always open.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Meiji Shrine Visit

Escape to this tranquil Shinto shrine surrounded by a forested area, open from sunrise to sunset.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Afuri Ramen

Taste the yuzu-flavored ramen specialty for a refreshing twist, popular and open till 10pm.
JPY1200, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Harajuku Takeshita Street

Experience the youthful fashion culture, boutiques, and sweet treats along this famous trendy street.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Roppongi Hills Observation Deck

Enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo cityscape at sunset from the Observation Deck. Open from 10:00am to 11:00pm.
JPY1800, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Sushi Zanmai

Sample fresh and top-quality sushi at this popular chain open 24/7, great for a late Tokyo dinner.
JPY3500, 1h30m
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Day 3: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan on October 3, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Nikko

Take the Tobu Limited Express from Asakusa Station to Nikko; approximately 2 hours travel time.
JPY2600 one-way, 2h

9:30am

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its elaborate decorations and the resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Open from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY1300, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Enjoy local Nikko specialties such as yuba dishes at this casual but beloved eatery. Open 11:30am to 3:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Kegon Falls Visit

Visit one of Japan’s most beautiful waterfalls, accessible by bus. Best time to visit is daylight hours before 5:00pm.
JPY570 for elevator, 1h

3:00pm

Lake Chuzenji Walk

Take an easy walk around Lake Chuzenji or simply relax by the lakeside, soaking in nature's beauty.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Take the train back to Tokyo with dinner planned upon arrival.
JPY2600, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Ichiran Ramen

Enjoy a unique solo dining experience with some of Tokyo’s best tonkotsu ramen. Open 24 hours.
JPY1200, 1h
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Day 4: Explore Hakone

Hakone, Japan on October 4, 2025

7:30am

Travel to Hakone

Take the Romancecar train from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto; approximately 1.5 hours.
JPY2200 one-way, 1h30m

9:30am

Breakfast at Bakery & Table Hakone

Enjoy freshly baked bread and coffee with scenic views of Lake Ashi. Open from 7:30am.
JPY1200, 1h

10:30am

Hakone Sightseeing Cruise

Take a pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi to view Mt. Fuji and surrounding lakeside sights. Cruises run until around 4:00pm.
JPY1030, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Tamura Ginkatsutei

Savor the famous tofu katsu dishes which are a Hakone specialty. Open 11:00am to 3:00pm.
JPY1800, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Hakone Open-Air Museum

Explore impressive sculptures in beautiful mountain scenery; the museum closes at 5:00pm.
JPY1600, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at an Onsen

Experience a traditional Japanese hot spring bath at a local ryokan or public onsen, ideal for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
JPY1000-2000, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Ryokan

Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at your ryokan, experiencing seasonal Japanese cuisine.
Included with accommodation, 2h
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Day 5: Mount Fuji & Travel

Hakone to Kawaguchiko, Japan on October 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Ryokan

Have a traditional Japanese breakfast at your accommodation, typically including rice, grilled fish, and miso soup.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Kawaguchiko

Take a bus from Hakone to Kawaguchiko via Odawara and Gotemba, approximately 3 hours.
JPY3000, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Houtou Fudou

Try the regional specialty 'houtou' noodles, a hearty miso-based noodle soup perfect to warm up while exploring Mt. Fuji area.
JPY1200, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Chureito Pagoda

Climb the stairs to this striking pagoda for stunning views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscape.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Stroll Lake Kawaguchi

Walk along the peaceful lakeside area to enjoy views of Mt. Fuji and seasonal autumn colors.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Kawaguchiko

Dine at a local izakaya offering fresh river fish and local sake. Open till 9:00pm.
JPY2500, 1h30m
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Day 6: Travel to Kyoto

Kawaguchiko to Kyoto, Japan on October 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or local café

Start the day with a light breakfast, perhaps a coffee and pastry from a local café.
JPY800, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Kyoto

Take the bus to Mishima, then Shinkansen to Kyoto; approximately 4.5 hours total.
JPY12000 (Shinkansen fare), 4h30m

2:00pm

Check-in and relax

Arrive in Kyoto and check into your accommodation to refresh.
Varies, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore iconic thousand red torii gates; open 24 hours, well suited for late afternoon visits to avoid crowds.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Experience Kyoto’s nightlife and cuisine along Pontocho Alley, featuring a variety of traditional and modern dining options.
JPY3000, 1h30m
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Day 7: Historic Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on October 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a classic Japanese style coffee house breakfast, a Kyoto staple open from early morning.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the stunning gold-leaf covered Zen temple, a must-see attraction open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Ryoan-ji Temple

Famous for its rock garden, it offers peaceful contemplation. Open 8:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Taste handmade udon noodles in a serene traditional setting near Kodai-ji Temple. Open 11:30am to 3:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h

2:30pm

Gion Walking Tour

Explore Kyoto’s famous geisha district in the afternoon when the streets are lively and atmospheric.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Kyoto Gogyo

Try the famous burnt miso ramen in this stylish restaurant open until 11:00pm.
JPY1400, 1h
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Day 8: Arashiyama Nature

Kyoto, Japan on October 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your hotel or local café

Fuel up with a light breakfast before heading out to Arashiyama.
JPY800, 1h

9:00am

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Stroll through the iconic bamboo forest early morning to avoid crowds. Open 24 hours.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful gardens, open from 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Enjoy a traditional Buddhist vegetarian shojin ryori meal inside Tenryu-ji’s temple grounds. Reservations recommended.
JPY3000, 1h30m

2:30pm

Boat Ride on Katsura River

Take a relaxing boat cruise along the river (seasonal availability), usually until about 4:00pm.
JPY2500, 1h

4:30pm

Explore Okochi Sanso Villa

Visit this beautiful villa and garden with lovely views, open until 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Known for exquisite soba noodles with a view overlooking the river. Open till 8:00pm.
JPY2500, 1h30m
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Day 9: Nara Day Trip

Kyoto to Nara, Japan on October 9, 2025

7:30am

Travel to Nara

Take the JR Nara Line or Kintetsu Railway from Kyoto to Nara; approx. 1 hour.
JPY710 one-way, 1h

9:00am

Visit Todai-ji Temple

See the world’s largest wooden building housing a giant Buddha statue, open from 7:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY600, 1h30m

11:00am

Nara Park & Deer Feeding

Enjoy walking in Nara Park and feeding the friendly deer, a unique and fun experience. Open all day.
JPY150 for deer crackers, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Maguro Koya

Delight in fresh tuna dishes at this well-loved local restaurant near Nara Park. Open 11:30am to 3:00pm.
JPY1800, 1h

2:00pm

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Visit this beautiful shrine known for its stone and bronze lanterns, open until dusk.
JPY500, 1h

3:30pm

Return to Kyoto

Travel back to Kyoto for an evening at leisure.
JPY710, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Tonkatsu Maisen

Relish excellent tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet) in a cozy setting in Kyoto.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 10: Philosopher’s Walk

Kyoto, Japan on October 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your accommodation or a local bakery

Start the day with a satisfying breakfast featuring local or western options.
JPY800, 1h

9:30am

Philosopher’s Walk

Enjoy a scenic stroll along this peaceful pedestrian path lined with cherry trees and temples, open all day.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Okariba

Savor delicious venison dishes, a speciality in Kyoto, at this popular restaurant. Open 11:30am to 2:30pm.
JPY2500, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Explore this elegant Zen temple surrounded by beautiful gardens and unique sand gardens; open from 8:30am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Nanzen-ji Temple

Relax at this sprawling temple complex featuring a famous aqueduct and picturesque gardens. Open 8:40am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Menbaka Fire Ramen

Experience fiery grilled ramen, a fun and tasty meal that’s open till late.
JPY1500, 1h
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Day 11: Day Trip to Himeji Castle

Kyoto to Himeji, Japan on October 11, 2025

7:30am

Travel to Himeji

Take the Shinkansen from Kyoto to Himeji; about 1 hour journey.
JPY5600 one-way, 1h

9:00am

Visit Himeji Castle

Tour Japan’s largest and best-preserved castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 2h

11:30am

Koko-en Garden

Explore the adjacent beautiful traditional Japanese gardens; open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY300, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Engyo Himeji

Enjoy local Kansai cuisine near the castle in a traditional setting.
JPY2000, 1h

2:30pm

Return to Kyoto

Catch the Shinkansen back to Kyoto for a relaxed evening.
JPY5600, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Kyoto Station Ramen Street

Explore this cluster of ramen shops under Kyoto Station offering various ramen styles open till late.
JPY1200, 1h
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Day 12: Kyoto Museums & Shopping

Kyoto, Japan on October 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee

Enjoy specialty coffee and light breakfast at this trendy café popular with locals.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Kyoto National Museum

Discover Japanese art and cultural artifacts in this prominent museum, open 9:30am to 5:00pm (closed Mondays).
JPY1000, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample various street foods and local delicacies at Kyoto’s famous food market, open until around 6:00pm.
Varies, 1h30m

2:00pm

Shopping in Teramachi and Shinkyogoku Streets

Shop a mix of traditional crafts, souvenirs, and trendy fashion stores on these busy shopping streets.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Gyuzen

Enjoy refined Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine, perfect for a farewell dinner. Reservation recommended.
JPY5000, 2h
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Day 13: Leisure & Departure Prep

Kyoto, Japan on October 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed morning with breakfast at your accommodation.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, open 9:00am to 5:00pm, free entry.
Free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Kichi Kichi Omurice

Try the famous fluffy Japanese omelette rice, a fun and casual spot popular for lunch. Open 11:00am to 7:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Pack and prepare for departure

Use this time to pack and rest before the next day's travel.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Light dinner at Kyoto Station

Enjoy a quick meal or snack near the station in preparation for departure.
JPY1000, 1h
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Day 14: Transfer to Airport

Kyoto to Osaka Kansai Airport, Japan on October 14, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at accommodation or nearby café

Have a simple breakfast before your airport transfer.
JPY800, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Osaka Kansai Airport

Take the Haruka Express train or limousine bus from Kyoto Station directly to Kansai International Airport; about 1h15m.
JPY2500, 1h15m

10:00am

Check-in and airport formalities

Allow ample time for check-in and security for your flight departing on 15th October.
Free, Varies
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