15-Day Japan Adventure: Tokyo, Osaka & Hokkaido Highlights

Day 1: Arrival & Tokyo Intro

Tokyo, Japan on July 20, 2025

10:00am

Arrival at Narita or Haneda Airport

Settle into your hotel in central Tokyo. Rest and freshen up before exploring.
JPY0, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Tsukiji Outer Market

Enjoy fresh sushi and seafood stalls offering local delicacies in a lively market atmosphere. Open daily roughly 9am-3pm.
JPY2000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa

Explore Tokyo’s oldest temple and the vibrant Nakamise shopping street leading to it for souvenirs.
JPY0, 1h30m

5:00pm

Walk around Akihabara Electric Town

See the electronic shops, anime culture, and quirky cafes.
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7:00pm

Dinner at Ichiran Ramen Shinjuku

Experience Japan’s famous tonkotsu ramen in a unique solo dining booth environment. Open till late.
JPY1000, 1h

Day 2: Tokyo Modern Culture

Tokyo, Japan on July 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bills Omotesando

Enjoy famous fluffy pancakes and excellent coffee in a stylish setting. Open 8am-10pm.
JPY1500, 1h

9:30am

Visit Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park

Explore the serene shrine set in lush forest next to a popular park.
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11:30am

Shopping and exploring Harajuku Takeshita Street

Experience trendy teen fashion, vibrant street food, and unique boutiques.
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1:00pm

Lunch at Afuri Ramen Ebisu

Try yuzu-flavored ramen, famous for its refreshing taste. Open 11:30am-10:00pm.
JPY1200, 1h

3:00pm

TeamLab Planets Tokyo

Discover immersive digital art exhibitions combining technology and creativity. Open 10am-7pm (last admission 6pm).
JPY3200, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Inspired the Kill Bill movie set; offers delicious yakitori and izakaya dishes.
JPY3000, 1h30m

Day 3: Tokyo to Osaka

Tokyo to Osaka, Japan on July 22, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Enjoy a quick Japanese or western breakfast.
JPY1000, 1h

8:30am

Travel via Shinkansen to Osaka

Take the fastest bullet train (Nozomi) from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka, approx 2.5 hours.
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12:30pm

Check-in and Lunch at Dotonbori Street

Explore bustling Dotonbori with famous takoyaki and okonomiyaki street food.
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2:30pm

Visit Osaka Castle

Tour the iconic historic castle and its beautiful park grounds.
JPY600, 1h30m

5:00pm

Explore Umeda Sky Building

Enjoy panoramic views of Osaka from the Floating Garden Observatory. Open 10am-10:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Mizuno Okonomiyaki

One of Osaka’s most famous okonomiyaki restaurants, best to arrive early or expect a wait.
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Day 4: Osaka & Day Trip

Osaka, Japan on July 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at LiLo Coffee Roasters

Great specialty coffee and light breakfast near the bustling districts.
JPY800, 1h

9:00am

Day trip to Nara

Visit historic temples such as Todai-ji and enjoy friendly deer in Nara Park, about 45 minutes from Osaka by train.
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2:00pm

Lunch at Nakatanidou in Nara

Taste their famous freshly made mochi, renowned for its softness and sweetness. Open 9am-5pm.
JPY700, 1h

6:00pm

Return to Osaka and relax

Take a rest back at the hotel or explore nearby areas like Shinsaibashi shops.
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8:00pm

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Enjoy Osaka’s famous deep-fried skewers in a friendly and casual atmosphere.
JPY2000, 1h30m

Day 5: Osaka to Hokkaido

Osaka to Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan on July 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast near hotel

Grab a quick bite before the flight to Hokkaido.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Flight from Osaka Kansai Airport to New Chitose Airport, Hokkaido

Approx 2 hours flight, book with ANA or JAL for best service.
JPY15000, 2h

12:00pm

Check in at Sapporo hotel and lunch at Sapporo Ramen Republic

Sample various styles of miso ramen in this popular food amusement park inside ESTA shopping complex.
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2:00pm

Explore Odori Park and Sapporo TV Tower

Relax in the large central park and view the city from the TV tower (open 9am-10pm).
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4:00pm

Visit historic Former Hokkaido Government Office

Admire the ‘Red Brick’ Western-style building with gardens.
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6:30pm

Dinner at Sapporo Beer Garden

Enjoy Genghis Khan (mutton BBQ) along with local beer in a lively setting.
JPY3500, 1h30m

Day 6: Hokkaido Nature & Onsen

Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, Japan on July 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel in Sapporo

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to Noboribetsu.
JPY1000, 1h

9:00am

Train to Noboribetsu Onsen (approx 1.5 hours)

Travel to one of Hokkaido’s most famous hot spring towns.
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11:00am

Visit Jigokudani (Hell Valley)

Explore the dramatic volcanic valley with steaming vents and hot springs.
JPY0, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at local Noboribetsu ryokan restaurant

Taste regional specialties such as fresh seafood or onsen eggs.
JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Relax in an onsen bath at the ryokan or day spa

Enjoy rejuvenating hot spring baths with mineral-rich water for which the area is famous.
JPY1500, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Noboribetsu local izakaya

Sample Hokkaido specialty dishes and fresh seafood in a cozy setting.
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Day 7: Return to Sapporo

Noboribetsu to Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan on July 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at ryokan

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast with local ingredients.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Train back to Sapporo

Travel back to Sapporo for city exploration.
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11:30am

Visit Moerenuma Park

See this expansive park designed by famous artist Isamu Noguchi with striking landscaping and sculptures.
JPY0, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Hanamaru Kaiten Sushi

Enjoy fresh conveyor-belt sushi, a fun and affordable dining option.
JPY1500, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Sapporo Beer Museum

Learn about the history of beer in Japan with tastings available. Open 11am-7pm (last entry 6:30pm).
JPY500, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Soup Curry GARAKU

Try Sapporo’s famous spicy soup curry in a friendly locale.
JPY1800, 1h

Day 8: Hokkaido Wildlife & Lake Toya

Sapporo to Lake Toya, Hokkaido, Japan on July 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up before a day of nature excursions.
JPY1000, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Lake Toya by bus (~2.5 hours)

Enjoy beautiful scenic views en route to this picturesque caldera lake.
JPY2600, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Lakeside restaurant at Toya

Delight in fresh lake fish dishes and local Hokkaido produce.
JPY2000, 1h

1:30pm

Take a boat cruise on Lake Toya

Enjoy a relaxing boat tour around the lake with views of Mount Usu volcano.
JPY1600, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Usuzan Ropeway and Hiking Trails

Ride the ropeway to see an active volcano crater and enjoy panoramic views.
JPY1500, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner & Onsen stay at local ryokan

Experience traditional multi-course kaiseki dinner and soak in natural hot springs.
JPY10000, 2h

Day 9: Lake Toya to Sapporo

Lake Toya to Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan on July 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at ryokan

Traditional Japanese breakfast before departure.
JPY1000, 1h

9:00am

Return to Sapporo by bus

Travel back to the city for further sightseeing.
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12:00pm

Lunch at Ramen Shingen

Enjoy rich miso ramen, a local Sapporo specialty. Open 11:30am-3pm & 5:30pm-9:30pm.
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2:00pm

Visit Hokkaido University Botanic Garden

Relax in a tranquil garden with diverse plant species and historical buildings.
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4:00pm

Shopping at Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade

A bustling covered street offering souvenirs, food, and local crafts.
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7:00pm

Dinner at Nijo Market seafood restaurant

Feast on fresh seafood bowls and Hokkaido specialties.
JPY3000, 1h30m

Day 10: Fly Back to Tokyo

Sapporo to Tokyo, Japan on July 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Healthy breakfast before your flight back to Tokyo.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Flight from New Chitose to Tokyo Haneda Airport

About 1.5-hour flight, plan transfer to hotel after arrival.
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12:00pm

Check-in and Lunch at Tokyo Station Ramen Street

Sample a variety of ramen styles in a conveniently located arcade.
JPY1200, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Imperial Palace East Gardens

Enjoy a scenic walk in the beautifully maintained gardens open from 9am-4:30pm.
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4:00pm

Explore Ginza Shopping District

Shop luxury brands, visit cafes, and savor the upscale vibe of Tokyo’s premier shopping area.
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7:00pm

Dinner at Sushi Zanmai in Tsukiji

Enjoy fresh and reasonably priced sushi with lively atmosphere.
JPY3000, 1h30m

Day 11: Day Trip to Kamakura

Tokyo, Japan on July 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast near hotel

Prepare for your day with a quick café breakfast.
JPY1000, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Kamakura by train (~1 hour)

Vibrant coastal town with historical temples and the Great Buddha statue.
JPY940, 1h

10:00am

Visit Kotoku-in Temple (Great Buddha)

Famous iconic giant bronze Buddha statue standing outdoors since the 13th century.
JPY200, 1h

11:30am

Walk around Hase-dera Temple and gardens

See beautiful seasonal flowers, hilltop views, and serene Buddhist statues.
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1:00pm

Lunch at Kamakura Matsubara-an

Enjoy traditional soba noodles with a peaceful atmosphere near the coast.
JPY1500, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Main Shinto shrine in Kamakura, known for festivals and beautiful pathways.
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5:00pm

Return train to Tokyo

Head back to central Tokyo for dinner and relaxation.
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7:00pm

Dinner at Tonkatsu Maisen Aoyama

Try one of Tokyo’s best tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet) restaurants.
JPY2500, 1h30m

Day 12: Explore Shibuya & Shinjuku

Tokyo, Japan on July 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café de l’Ambre

Historic coffee shop renowned for expertly brewed coffee since 1948.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue

Witness the famous scramble crossing and pay homage to the loyal dog statue.
JPY0, 1h

11:00am

Explore Shibuya Center-gai for shopping and people-watching

Delve into bustling youth culture, boutiques, and eateries.
JPY0, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Uobei Sushi Shibuya

Experience conveyor belt sushi tech with affordable prices.
JPY1200, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Tranquil expansive garden blending traditional Japanese, English, and French styles.
JPY500, 2h

4:30pm

Explore Kabukicho and Golden Gai

Experience Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife district and tiny themed bars.
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7:00pm

Dinner at Omoide Yokocho

Try yakitori and other traditional izakaya fare in an atmospheric alley.
JPY2000, 1h30m

Day 13: Day Trip to Nikko

Tokyo, Japan on August 1, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast at hotel

Prepare for the day’s excursions.
JPY1000, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Nikko by train (~2 hours)

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage temples and beautiful natural surroundings.
JPY2800, 2h

10:00am

Visit Toshogu Shrine

A lavishly decorated shrine complex, resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu.
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12:00pm

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Casual eatery known for yakitori and local fare near the shrine.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji

Enjoy stunning waterfalls and pond areas by buses from the town center.
JPY900, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Relax on the train back after a full day of sightseeing.
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8:00pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu or nearby

Relaxed dinner at the iconic restaurant if you want to revisit or try similar cuisine.
JPY3000, 1h30m

Day 14: Tokyo Leisure & Shopping

Tokyo, Japan on August 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your hotel or local café

Easy start to your last full day in Tokyo.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Odaiba

Modern entertainment and shopping district on a man-made island with great views and attractions.
JPY0, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza Food Court

Wide variety of international and Japanese dishes with views of the Gundam statue.
JPY1500, 1h

2:30pm

Explore teamLab Borderless Digital Art Museum

Mind-blowing interactive digital art installations. Book tickets in advance. Open 10am-8pm.
JPY3200, 2h

5:00pm

Return to hotel to pack and relax

Prepare for departure the next day.
JPY0, 1h30m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at New York Grill, Park Hyatt

Enjoy elegant dining with panoramic Tokyo city views, famous from the movie Lost in Translation.
JPY8000, 2h

Day 15: Departure Day

Tokyo, Japan on August 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Final breakfast in Japan.
JPY1000, 1h

9:00am

Check out and travel to airport

Head to Narita or Haneda Airport for departure flight home.
JPY3000, 1h30m