14-Day Budget-Friendly Japan Tour: Mountains, Beaches, Culture & Nightlife

Day 1: Explore Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on June 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Enjoy fresh sushi breakfast and Tamagoyaki at this famous market, open from 5:00am to 2:00pm, perfect to start the day with authentic local flavors.
JPY1500, 1h

9:30am

Visit Meiji Shrine

Experience serene Japanese culture in this large Shinto shrine, open from sunrise to sunset; a peaceful walk through the forested grounds.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Explore Harajuku & Takeshita Street

Famous for youth culture and unique fashion, stroll, shop, and try street snacks like crepes and karaage.
Variable, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Ichiran Ramen, Shibuya

Delight in rich, customizable tonkotsu ramen at Ichiran, a must-try non-veg ramen experience, open 24 hours.
JPY1200, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue

See the famous bustling Shibuya crossing and visit the statue of loyal dog Hachiko, a perfect spot for photos.
Free, 30m

3:00pm

Visit teamLab Borderless Museum

Immerse yourself in futuristic digital art museum open until 7:00pm, offering a unique cultural experience with interactive exhibits.
JPY3200, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Omoide Yokocho, Shinjuku

Enjoy yakitori and other grilled delights in the atmospheric alleyways famous for after-dark dining and local vibe.
JPY2000, 1h30m

8:00pm

Nightlife in Shinjuku Kabukicho

Explore lively nightlife district with many bars and clubs, offering a peek into Tokyo’s vibrant night-scene.
Variable, 2h
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Day 2: Tokyo Culture & History

Tokyo, Japan on June 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at a local café near Asakusa

Try Japanese-style toast and coffee before exploring the area; many cafés open from 7:00am.
JPY800, 1h

9:30am

Visit Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa

Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple with a lively shopping street (Nakamise) for souvenirs and snacks; open dawn to dusk.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Sumida River Cruise to Odaiba

Take a scenic cruise on the river to futuristic Odaiba, a great way to view Tokyo from the water, operating 10:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY1200, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Odaiba Food Court

Try seafood bowls or tempura; many food options are budget-friendly and fresh.
JPY1500, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Odaiba’s Palette Town and teamLab Planets

Shop and enjoy interactive exhibits of teamLab Planets (open till 9:00pm), a must-see modern art venue.
JPY3200, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Oedo Onsen Monogatari

Traditional hot spring theme park offering baths and cultural shows; open till 9:00pm, great for relaxing.
JPY2480, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at a local izakaya in Odaiba

Enjoy grilled seafood and drinks in a relaxed local atmosphere.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Mount Fuji & Hakone

Hakone, Japan on June 25, 2025

7:00am

Early train to Hakone from Tokyo

Take the Odakyu Romancecar train (approx. 2 hours) for mountain and lake scenic experience, with cost-effective transport pass options available.
JPY2000, 2h

9:30am

Visit Hakone Open Air Museum

Discover art sculptures in nature, open daily 9:00am-5:00pm with ticket including entry to Picasso Pavilion.
JPY1600, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at a soba restaurant in Gora

Try hot handmade soba noodles with tempura by the mountain streams; local specialties served fresh.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Hakone Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Ashi

Scenic boat ride offering views of Mount Fuji on clear days; cruises run from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Hakone Shrine

A peaceful lakeside shrine nestled in lush forest, freely accessible; great for cultural photos.
Free, 30m

4:00pm

Relax in an onsen (hot spring bath)

Affordable public onsen baths available in Hakone Yumoto, perfect to experience authentic Japanese bathing culture.
JPY700, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at a local izakaya in Hakone Yumoto

Opt for grilled fish, yakitori, and sake; reasonable prices and warm ambiance.
JPY1800, 1h30m
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Day 4: Historic Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on June 26, 2025

8:00am

Shinkansen train to Kyoto from Odawara Station

Efficient bullet train ride (approx. 2 hours) using budget passes for cost-efficiency.
JPY4000, 2h

10:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Famous Zen temple covered in gold leaf, open 9:00am-5:00pm; a must-see stunning cultural landmark.
JPY400, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample authentic Kyoto street foods, including grilled eel and yakitori, within a lively market atmosphere.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Walk the Philosopher's Path

Scenic walking trail alongside cherry trees and quaint temples; open all day.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Gion District

Experience traditional tea houses and chance to spot Geishas; perfect cultural immersion at dusk.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at a Kyoto-style kaiseki restaurant

Try multi-course seasonal Japanese meal featuring fresh ingredients; budget friendly options available around Gion.
JPY2500, 1h30m
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Day 5: Kyoto Temples & Gardens

Kyoto, Japan on June 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at cafe near Kyoto Station

Enjoy pastries and matcha latte to start the day, many cafes open from 7:00am.
JPY800, 1h

9:30am

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha

Explore the iconic thousands of red torii gates on the mountain trail; open all day and free entry.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch featuring yakitori and rice bowls in the Fushimi area

A popular spot for grilled chicken skewers, an authentic local favorite.
JPY1200, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Nijo Castle

Historical castle with beautiful gardens and nightingale floors; open 8:45am-5:00pm.
JPY1000, 2h

4:00pm

Explore Kyoto Railway Museum

Engaging museum open till 5:30pm showcasing Japan’s rail history; fun for train enthusiasts.
JPY1200, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Try Osaka-style takoyaki and kushiyaki in this atmospheric alley with budget-friendly eateries.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 6: Nara Day Trip

Nara, Japan on June 28, 2025

7:30am

Take train from Kyoto to Nara

Short 45-minute train ride on JR line for scenic journey to Japan’s ancient capital.
JPY700, 45m

8:30am

Breakfast in Nara near train station

Try local bakery items or Japanese-style cafe breakfast.
JPY700, 1h

9:30am

Visit Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park

See the colossal bronze Buddha statue and interact with friendly free-roaming deer; open all day, small temple entry fee applies.
JPY600, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at a local restaurant serving Kakinoha Sushi

Try this famous Nara specialty of sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Ancient shrine famous for many bronze lanterns and scenic forest area; open 6:30am-5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

3:30pm

Return train to Kyoto

Relax during the short return journey.
JPY700, 45m

5:00pm

Evening free time in Kyoto

Explore local shops or relax at accommodation.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Kyoto Station Ramen Street

Try various types of ramen from different regions, budget-friendly and open till late evening.
JPY1200, 1h
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Day 7: Kyoto to Osaka

Osaka, Japan on June 29, 2025

9:00am

Travel by train to Osaka

Short 30-minute ride on JR or private line to vibrant Osaka city centre.
JPY600, 30m

10:00am

Breakfast at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Try takoyaki (octopus balls) and fresh seafood snacks; market open 9:00am-6:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h

11:00am

Visit Osaka Castle and Park

Historic castle open 9:00am-5:00pm with a museum inside; panoramic views from observation deck.
JPY600, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Dotonbori Street

Famous for street food including okonomiyaki and kushikatsu, open all day.
JPY1500, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Enjoy browsing shops and cafes in this covered shopping area with vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 2h

5:30pm

Visit Umeda Sky Building

Observation deck open till 10:30pm, offering night views of the cityscape.
JPY1500, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at local izakaya near Namba

Try a variety of Japanese dishes in lively izakaya environment, great for experiencing Osaka nightlife.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 8: Osaka Museums & Nightlife

Osaka, Japan on June 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local café

Try Japanese-style breakfast set with grilled fish and rice.
JPY800, 1h

9:30am

Visit Osaka Museum of History

Open 9:30am-5:00pm, entrance fee is budget-friendly; discover Osaka’s cultural evolution.
JPY600, 1h30m

11:30am

Explore Tennoji and visit Abeno Harukas

Japan’s tallest skyscraper with observation decks open till 9:00pm; enjoy lunch in the building’s food floor.
JPY1500, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch on building’s food floor

Variety of affordable Japanese and international food options available.
JPY1500, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Spa World

Public bath and spa complex open till 8:00pm offering international themed baths for relaxation.
JPY1200, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Dotonbori

Sample famous street food again or enjoy fresh grilled seafood in local eateries.
JPY2000, 1h30m

8:30pm

Nightlife at Amerikamura

Trendy youth area with bars, clubs, and live music; perfect spot for vibrant nightlife experience.
Variable, 2h
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Day 9: Hiroshima & Peace Memorial

Hiroshima, Japan on July 1, 2025

7:00am

Shinkansen to Hiroshima

Take bullet train (approx. 2.5 hours) to Hiroshima from Osaka station; economical rail passes recommended.
JPY6000, 2h30m

9:30am

Breakfast near Hiroshima Station

Try local savory pancakes (okonomiyaki) in casual cafes open from early morning.
JPY1000, 1h

10:30am

Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum

Must-see historic site open 8:30am-6:00pm, offers sobering insight into atomic bombing with free park access.
JPY200, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at local okonomiyaki restaurant

Try authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a layered savory pancake specialty.
JPY1200, 1h

2:30pm

Ferry to Miyajima Island

Short 10-minute ferry ride to scenic island famous for Itsukushima Shrine floating torii gate; boats run regularly.
JPY360, 30m

3:00pm

Explore Itsukushima Shrine and Mount Misen hike

Shrine open during daylight; Mount Misen hike is scenic and rewarding, taking about 2h roundtrip.
Shrine JPY300, hike free, 3h

6:00pm

Return to Hiroshima town

Relax at accommodation after day’s activities.
JPY360, 30m

7:30pm

Dinner at local izakaya

Sample grilled seafood and Hiroshima local dishes in cozy atmosphere.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 10: Explore Hiroshima & Travel South

Hiroshima to Fukuoka, Japan on July 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at nearby café

Enjoy Japanese breakfast set to energize for travel.
JPY800, 1h

9:30am

Visit Shukkeien Garden

Beautiful historic garden open 9:00am-5:30pm; peaceful stroll through the manicured greens.
JPY260, 1h30m

11:30am

Take Shinkansen to Fukuoka

Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by bullet train from Hiroshima to Hakata Station, best efficiency and comfort.
JPY6000, 1h15m

1:00pm

Lunch at Canal City Hakata food court

Wide variety of budget-friendly local and international food options with lively atmosphere.
JPY1500, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Fukuoka Tower and Momochi Seaside Park

Tower open 9:30am-10:00pm; panoramic views and nearby beach for relaxing walk.
JPY800, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at beachside café

Enjoy coffee with ocean views at Momochi beach.
JPY700, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at yatai street food stalls

Try Hakata ramen and grilled chicken skewers at famous open-air food stalls, budget-friendly and lively.
JPY1500, 1h30m
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Day 11: Fukuoka & Beach Day

Fukuoka, Japan on July 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local bakery

Try melonpan and coffee at coastal bakery with ocean views.
JPY700, 1h

9:30am

Beach day at Itoshima

Take local bus to Itoshima (approx 1 hour), a beautiful beach area known for clean sands and surf culture; best time for beach activities is morning to afternoon.
JPY500, 5h

2:30pm

Lunch at beachside café in Itoshima

Fresh seafood and casual meals with sea views.
JPY1500, 1h30m

4:00pm

Return bus to Fukuoka city

Rest and refresh at hotel.
JPY500, 1h

6:00pm

Visit Kushida Shrine and Nakasu nightlife

Explore historic shrine and then enjoy vibrant nightlife at Nakasu district with bars and clubs.
Variable, 3h

8:00pm

Dinner at local izakaya near Nakasu

Try fresh Hakata specialties including motsunabe (beef tripe hot pot) and local sake.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 12: Fukuoka Cultural Day

Fukuoka, Japan on July 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in neighborhood café

Try traditional Japanese breakfast sets with grilled fish and rice.
JPY800, 1h

9:30am

Visit Fukuoka Asian Art Museum

Open 10:00am-7:00pm, free on certain days; explore diverse Asian contemporary art collections.
JPY500, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk through Ohori Park and Fukuoka Castle ruins

Relaxing park area with garden and historic castle remains; open all day and free entry.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch with Hakata ramen at Ichiran

Must-try ramen famous for its creamy tonkotsu broth and customizable toppings.
JPY1200, 1h

3:00pm

Shopping at Tenjin Underground Mall

Unique covered shopping arcade with variety of stores open till 8:00pm.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at local yakiniku restaurant

Enjoy grilled meat delicacies in affordable settings, a great way to experience Japanese BBQ.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 13: Return Journey to Tokyo

Fukuoka to Tokyo, Japan on July 5, 2025

7:00am

Early Shinkansen back to Tokyo

Long but scenic ride using JR pass or tickets; about 5 hours ride.
JPY14000, 5h

12:30pm

Lunch at Tokyo Station Ramen Street

Try different regional ramen varieties to enjoy final taste of Japan’s food culture.
JPY1200, 1h

2:00pm

Check into budget hotel

Rest and freshen up for last day exploration.
JPY5000, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Akihabara for shopping and gaming

Explore anime shops, gaming arcades and electronics markets till night time.
Variable, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at ramen or sushi train restaurant

Enjoy fun sushi dining experience with conveyor belts and fresh seasonal sushi.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 14: Tokyo Final Day

Tokyo, Japan on July 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local bakery

Pick up some pastries and coffee for a light start.
JPY700, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Imperial Palace East Gardens

Free and tranquil garden open 9:00am-4:30pm; beautiful historical site close to central Tokyo.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at nearby soba noodle restaurant

Enjoy classic soba dishes, budget friendly and filling.
JPY1000, 1h

1:30pm

Shopping or souvenir hunting in Ginza

Explore department stores, traditional shops and luxury boutiques in one of Tokyo’s trendiest districts.
Variable, 2h

4:00pm

Return to hotel and pack

Prepare for departure the next day, relax after two weeks of exploration.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Farewell dinner at Izakaya in Shinjuku

Enjoy grilled seafood, yakitori and drink to celebrate an amazing Japan trip.
JPY2500, 2h
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