14-Day Budget Japan Adventure: Mountains, Beaches, Culture & Nightlife by Bus and Train

Day 1: Tokyo City Buzz

Tokyo, Japan on June 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Enjoy fresh sushi and tamago-yaki (Japanese omelet) at affordable stalls in the famous seafood market, which opens early and is an authentic culinary experience.
JPY1500, 1h30m

10:00am

Visit Meiji Shrine

Explore this serene Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji set in a large forested park, offering cultural insight and peaceful walks.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ichiran Shibuya

Try Ichiran’s famous tonkotsu ramen with its unique solo dining booths providing an immersive and budget-friendly meal.
JPY1000, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Harajuku and Takeshita Street

Experience youthful fashion, quirky cafes, and unique shops, perfect for a cultural stroll and souvenir hunting.
Free to browse, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Relax in this spacious garden featuring traditional Japanese, English, and French landscape styles; open till 6:30pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Omoide Yokocho

Dine at one of the tiny yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) bars in this narrow alley in Shinjuku offering authentic atmosphere and tasty eats.
JPY2000, 1h30m

9:30pm

Nightlife at Golden Gai

Experience Tokyo’s famous bar district with small themed bars, perfect for a late night drink and mingling with locals.
JPY1500 approx, 2h
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Day 2: Tokyo Modern & Traditional

Tokyo, Japan on June 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at AIN SOPH. Journey Shinjuku

Try budget veg and non-veg friendly pancakes or a hearty breakfast set in a cozy café known for quality at affordable rates.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

TeamLab Borderless Museum

Visit this stunning interactive digital art museum in Odaiba—mindful to book tickets in advance; it opens at 10am.
JPY3200, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Uobei Sushi Shibuya

Experience conveyor belt sushi with a fun ordering system; it’s quick, affordable, and offers fresh seafood.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo’s oldest temple and traditional shopping street Nakamise for souvenirs and street snacks.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Walk along Sumida River and Tokyo Skytree

Enjoy views of the skyline and colorful street life near Japan’s tallest tower; entrance to observatory optional.
JPY2100 (optional observatory), 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Torikizoku Shibuya

Enjoy affordable yakitori and drinks at this popular chain with a lively atmosphere for a night out without overspending.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Day Trip to Kamakura Mountains & Beach

Kamakura, Japan on June 25, 2025

7:30am

Train to Kamakura

Travel one hour by JR train from Tokyo to Kamakura, a historic town with temples and beaches.
JPY920, 1h

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Kamakura Yama

Enjoy coffee and light breakfast with sea views near Komachi Street.
JPY1000, 1h

10:30am

Visit Great Buddha (Daibutsu) & Hase Temple

See the iconic giant outdoor bronze Buddha and beautiful nearby temple gardens, open till 5pm.
JPY300, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Morito Beach café

Try fresh seafood and local dishes at this cozy beachside eatery, perfect for a light meal.
JPY1500, 1h

2:30pm

Relax at Yuigahama Beach

Spend afternoon unwinding on this popular beach with scenic views of Sagami Bay.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Tokyo by train

Evening journey back to Tokyo to prepare for next day’s travel; trains run till late night.
JPY920, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Ippudo Ramen Roppongi

End day with hearty Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen at this well-rated chain in Tokyo for an authentic meal.
JPY1200, 1h
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Day 4: Nikko Mountain Temples

Nikko, Japan on June 26, 2025

7:00am

Bus/train to Nikko

Travel approximately 2 hours by train and bus from Tokyo to the mountain town of Nikko, known for shrines and nature.
JPY2500, 2h

9:30am

Breakfast at local café near Nikko station

Light breakfast with coffee and traditional Japanese sweets to energize for temple visits.
JPY800, 45m

10:30am

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore this lavishly decorated UNESCO World Heritage site dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, open till 5pm.
JPY1300, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Savor local mountain specialties such as yuba (tofu skin) and grilled chicken skewers at this casual restaurant.
JPY1200, 1h

2:30pm

Walk around Lake Chuzenji & Kegon Falls

Take a bus to scenic Lake Chuzenji and admire Kegon Falls waterfall before heading back to town.
Bus fare JPY500, 2h

5:30pm

Return to Tokyo by train/bus

Evening ride back to Tokyo to overnight and prepare for coastal route next day.
JPY2500, 2h

8:30pm

Dinner at Tokyo station ramen street

Grab a quick budget-friendly bowl of ramen at any popular outlet within Tokyo station’s ramen street before resting.
JPY1000, 1h
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Day 5: Sendai & Matsushima Bay

Sendai, Japan on June 27, 2025

7:00am

Shinkansen to Sendai

Take the bullet train from Tokyo to Sendai (approx 1.5hr), starting your northern coastal adventure.
JPY8500, 1h30m

9:00am

Breakfast at local café

Enjoy Sendai’s specialty breakfast featuring beef tongue skewers or a simple Japanese set meal near the station.
JPY1200, 1h

10:30am

Visit Sendai Castle ruins and scenic viewpoints

Explore historic ruins with panoramic city views and a statue of Date Masamune, open year round.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Sushi Zanmai Sendai

Sample fresh local sushi including Pacific coast fish varieties at an affordable chain branch.
JPY1800, 1h

2:00pm

Bus to Matsushima Bay

Travel 40 minutes by bus to one of Japan’s three most scenic spots, known for its pine-clad islets.
JPY700, 45m

2:45pm

Matsushima Bay boat tour

Take a 50-minute ferry tour around the bay islands, offering stunning coastal views and photo opportunities.
JPY1400, 50m

4:00pm

Visit Zuiganji Temple

Explore this historic Zen temple featuring intricate wood carvings, open till 5pm.
JPY700, 1h

5:30pm

Return to Sendai to overnight

Bus ride back to Sendai.
JPY700, 45m

7:30pm

Dinner at Rikyu Sendai

Try Sendai’s famous gyutan (grilled beef tongue) in a traditional setting, budget-friendly and filling.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 6: Kanazawa Culture & Museums

Kanazawa, Japan on June 28, 2025

7:00am

Train to Kanazawa

Depart Sendai by train and bus combination to Kanazawa, approximately 4.5 hours. Reserve early for budget options.
JPY9000, 4h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Omicho Market

Feast on fresh seafood bowls (kaisendon) at the lively market known as Kanazawa’s kitchen.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Kenrokuen Garden

Discover one of Japan’s top three gardens, offering beautiful landscapes with ponds, tea houses, and flowers; open until 5pm.
JPY320, 1h30m

3:30pm

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art

Visit this innovative museum with interactive installations and unique exhibits; closes at 6pm on weekdays.
JPY1000, 1h

5:00pm

Stroll Higashi Chaya District

Walk through historic geisha tea house district, ideal for photography and budget souvenir shopping.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at local izakaya

Try local specialties like Jibuni (duck stew) and fresh sake at affordable Kanazawa pubs supporting a lively nightlife atmosphere.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 7: More Kanazawa & Travel South

Kanazawa / Kyoto, Japan on June 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café de Cottage

Relax with coffee and baked goods in a budget-friendly café near the hotel.
JPY800, 1h

9:30am

Visit Nagamachi Samurai District

Explore historic samurai houses and learn about Edo-period culture; open till 5pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

11:30am

Travel to Kyoto by train

Board train for a 2.5-hour journey south to Kyoto via JR lines; book low-cost seats early.
JPY4000, 2h30m

2:30pm

Lunch at Kyoto Station Food Court

Affordable options featuring udon, bento boxes, and Kyoto specialties like yuba tofu dishes.
JPY1200, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha

Walk through iconic red torii gates on mountain paths; open 24h, free entrance.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Nishiki Market

Sample street food including takoyaki and grilled meats in this vibrant covered market; many stalls open till 8pm.
JPY1500, 1h30m
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Day 8: Kyoto Temples & Culture

Kyoto, Japan on June 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start with traditional Japanese-Western style breakfast set in a famous Kyoto coffee shop.
JPY1000, 1h

9:00am

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the stunning golden temple and surrounding gardens, open from 9am to 5pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:00am

Ryoan-ji Zen Rock Garden

Experience one of Japan’s most famous rock gardens for meditation and contemplation.
JPY500, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Omen Udon

Enjoy handmade udon noodles with tempura in a rustic setting popular among locals.
JPY1300, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Gion District

Wander this traditional entertainment district to spot geisha and visit tea houses; free to walk around.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Tea Ceremony Experience at En

Book an affordable group tea ceremony to learn about this traditional Japanese cultural ritual.
JPY2000, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine at budget-friendly izakayas serving yakitori, sashimi, and local Kyoto dishes in an atmospheric lane.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 9: Nara Day Trip

Nara, Japan on July 1, 2025

8:00am

Train to Nara

Take JR or Kintetsu train for approx 45 minutes one way to Nara, known for ancient shrines and friendly deer.
JPY800, 45m

9:00am

Breakfast at Nara Machi Café

Enjoy Japanese-style breakfast with local ingredients in charming old town Naramachi.
JPY900, 1h

10:00am

Visit Todai-ji Temple and Deer Park

See the Great Buddha statue and stroll the expansive park home to freely roaming deer; temple open till 5pm.
JPY600, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Nakatanidou Mochi Shop

Try famous yomogi mochi (mugwort rice cakes) and other sweets for a light afternoon treat.
JPY600, 30m

1:30pm

Visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Explore this historic shrine famous for stone lanterns, open till dark, free entry to grounds.
Free, 1h30m

3:00pm

Return to Kyoto

Train back to Kyoto to rest and enjoy evening activities.
JPY800, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Kyoto Station Ramen Village

Enjoy several ramen styles at affordable prices at this food hall, ideal after a long day.
JPY1200, 1h
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Day 10: Kyoto to Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan on July 2, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Hiroshima by Shinkansen

Board the bullet train on a roughly 2-hour journey to Hiroshima for historic and cultural sites.
JPY9000, 2h

9:30am

Breakfast at Hiroshima Station

Grab a quick onigiri or sandwich with coffee for a budget-friendly, practical start.
JPY700, 30m

10:00am

Visit Peace Memorial Park and Museum

Spend the morning exploring the park and museum dedicated to atomic bomb victims; poignant and educational open till 6pm.
JPY200, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Okonomimura

Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory layered pancake, at a popular multi-floor food theme building.
JPY1200, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Hiroshima Castle

Explore reconstructed castle grounds and museum showcasing samurai history, open till 5pm.
JPY370, 1h

4:00pm

Stroll Shukkeien Garden

Visit elegant landscaped Japanese garden near the castle, perfect for rest and photos; closes at 5pm.
JPY260, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Nagata-ya

Dine on hearty Hiroshima okonomiyaki, loved by locals and tourists alike, great value meal.
JPY1300, 1h30m
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Day 11: Miyajima Island Day

Hiroshima / Itsukushima, Japan on July 3, 2025

7:30am

Train and ferry to Miyajima

Take local train and ferry (approx 1 hour total) to the famous island with iconic floating torii gate.
JPY1400, 1h

8:30am

Breakfast at Miyajima cafés

Enjoy fresh grilled oysters or a light meal at affordable seaside cafés, specialties of the island.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Itsukushima Shrine

Witness the UNESCO World Heritage site known for its floating torii gate, cultural highlights and scenic views.
JPY300, 1h30m

11:30am

Hike Mount Misen

Take scenic trails up Mount Misen for panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, approx 2-3 hour round trip.
Free, 3h

3:00pm

Return ferry and train to Hiroshima

Descend and return by ferry and train to Hiroshima city to relax in late afternoon.
JPY1400, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at local Hiroshima izakaya

Enjoy fresh seafood and Japanese pub dishes at a budget-friendly spot popular with locals.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 12: Osaka Arrival & Nightlife

Osaka, Japan on July 4, 2025

8:00am

Travel to Osaka by Shinkansen

Quick 1.5-hour bullet train ride from Hiroshima to Osaka to start exploring Japan’s lively food capital.
JPY5000, 1h30m

9:30am

Breakfast at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Try takoyaki (octopus balls), grilled seafood, and fresh fruit at this vibrant market known as 'Osaka's kitchen'.
JPY1500, 1h

11:00am

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore the historic castle grounds and museum; open 9am-5pm, last entry 4:30pm.
JPY600, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Kushikatsu Daruma

Sample Osaka’s signature fried skewers at this budget-friendly, iconic eatery.
JPY1500, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Namba District

Stroll through lively shopping streets, try street snacks, and visit shops in Namba area.
Free to explore, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner and nightlife at Dotonbori

Experience vibrant lights, street food like okonomiyaki and takoyaki, and bustling nightlife zones.
JPY2000, 2h
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Day 13: Osaka Cultural Day

Osaka, Japan on July 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Endo Sushi in Osaka Central Market

Enjoy fresh sushi at an affordable counter inside the central fish market; opens early for breakfast.
JPY1500, 1h

9:30am

Visit Osaka Museum of History

Learn about Osaka’s rich history and culture with engaging displays; open 10am-5pm.
JPY600, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk up Umeda Sky Building

See sunset views from the Floating Garden Observatory; opens 10am-10:30pm, entry fee applies.
JPY1500, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Imanishi

Try kushikatsu and other local favorites in this popular, affordable Osaka restaurant.
JPY1500, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Spa World

Enjoy budget-friendly public baths and themed onsens representing different countries; open till 10pm.
JPY1400, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Tsurutontan Udon

Indulge in thick, comforting udon noodles served in generous portions near nightlife hubs.
JPY1200, 1h30m

8:30pm

Night out at America Mura

Experience trendy bars, live music, and street performances in this youthful district.
Entry free, drinks extra, 2h
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Day 14: Osaka Departure

Osaka, Japan on July 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Grab a quick, budget-friendly breakfast to fuel up before departure.
JPY800, 1h

9:30am

Last minute souvenir shopping in Namba

Pick up souvenirs such as matcha sweets, character goods, and local snacks in budget shops.
Variable, 1h30m

11:30am

Travel to Kansai International Airport

Take the airport express train from Osaka city center to Kansai International Airport for flight home.
JPY1000, 1h
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