japan

Step into the enchanting world of Japan, where ancient traditions harmoniously blend with modern innovation. From the serene temples of Kyoto to the bustling streets of Tokyo, Japan invites you on a journey of discovery. Experience the art of tea ceremony, marvel at the breathtaking beauty of cherry blossoms in spring, and indulge in the exquisite flavors of sushi and ramen. Whether you’re exploring the iconic Mount Fuji, immersing yourself in the vibrant pop culture of Akihabara, or relaxing in a tranquil onsen, Japan captivates travelers with its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, promising an unforgettable adventure.

ITINERARY

Many first-time travelers choose to spend roughly two weeks in Japan to see and explore the best of the country.That’s why we present you with an optimal itinerary of 14 days and 13 nights, getting to know amazing places and experiences in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, and even more!

Day 1: First taste of Tokyo

Sensoji Temple – Harajuku – Shibuya Crossing

A fantastic start of your 14 days in Japan would be to visit one of the most colorful and at the same time spiritual temples Tokyo has to offer – the Sensoji Temple. Do not miss on Harajuku, the freakiest, funniest, and most diverse neighborhood of Tokyo. And of course, Shibuya Crossing, the single most popular place to visit in Tokyo.

Sensoji Temple

Day 2: Relaxing Tokyo

Yanaka – Gyokurin-ji – Yanaka Cemetery

Take a walk in the magnificent district of Yanaka – One of the very few places left in Tokyo, where the old spirit, traditional Japanese lifestyle, and tranquility have preserved their places over the decades.Gyokurin-ji – One of the hidden treasures of the Yanaka district. Visit this ambient temple, which is home to an ancient chinquapin tree.Yanaka Cemetery – Surprisingly, the cemetery of Yanaka is a peaceful place, getting many people curious to see the everlasting grave of the famous Tokugawa Yoshinobu, the last of the Shoguns from the Edo Period.

Day 3: Last day in Tokyo

Ryogoku Kokugikan – Robot Restaurant – Tokyo Skytree

If you happen to be in the city during a sumo tournament, the Ryogoku Kokugikan is one of the best arenas in the world to see a classical sumo fight for the first time .Robot Restaurant – The ultimate experience for anyone who hasn’t ever been served by giant robots, controlled by girls in bikinis! This unique experience has driven many international tourists crazy, always with the desire to come back for more. Tokyo Skytree this is the second tallest structure in the world (the tallest one is Burj Khalifa in Dubai), offering mesmerizing sights of the city by day, and magically-inspired views by night.

Robert Restaurant

Day 4: Wonderful Kyoto

Higashiyama District, Kodaiji Temple and Maruyama Park

An excellent way to begin your Kyoto adventure is by visiting the Higashiyama District. This historic place offers an authentic Kyoto atmosphere and has been very well preserved over the centuries. Kodaiji Temple – Located within the same area, this temple’s secret is the bamboo grove, located behind it. It is there where time stands still, and a stroll through the bamboo forest will feel like a unique experience. Maruyama Park – Because of its countless cherry trees, this park has quickly become one of the most famous destinations for tourists and locals during the cherry blossom period (last week of March – first week of April).

Maruyama Park

Day 5: Classic Kyoto

Saiho-ji, Funaoka Onsen and Okitsu Club

Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over a millennium. Even though the honour has now been granted to Tokyo, Kyoto remains a city of surprises for locals and newcomers alike. We recommended checking out the following on day 5:

One of the most beautiful gardens in Japan is located on the grounds of the Saiho-ji temple. For a real ancient experience, we recommend visiting Funaoka Onsen – old but remarkably well-preserved saunas (indoors and outdoors), electric baths, stone-lined outdoor baths, herbal baths… There is no end to the pleasures and relaxation you can enjoy here. For a full experience, visit the Tahitchi restaurant nearby, for a warming bowl of miso soup. Okitsu Club Kyoto – If you wish to better understand Japanese culture, don’t think twice about visiting the Okitsu club.

Day 6: Last day in Kyoto

Nishiki Market, Fushimi Inari and Nanzen-ji

Nishiki Market – Fresh seafood, traditional Japanese cooking techniques, low prices, and a great location this is easily the best place to enjoy the local cuisine. Fushimi Inari-Taisha – This magnificent shrine and the thousands of movie scenes dedicated to this particular place make the spot a must-see for many world travelers. Nanzen-ji – This great temple has played a significant role in the past centuries, has had the title “First Temple of the Land”, forms part of the five great Zen temples of Kyoto, and has been a part of the Kyoto landscape since 1291. The view is something everyone will appreciate for its glory and power.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Day 7: Nara day trip

Todai-ji, Nara-Koen park and Nara National Museum

Probably the single most famous temple of Nara goes by the name of Todai-ji. It is where the Daibutsu (the Great Buddha; 14,98m tall; 500 tons) is located. The Nara-Koen park – A gorgeous green space that unites history, nature, peace, and wild deer!. Nara National Museum – a place where you will be taught about the difference between the two types of Buddhist statues and their history.

Nara- Koen park

Day 8: Amazing Osaka

Lifestyle Museum of Osaka – Located in a ten-story building, this museum offers the experience of Osaka in the 1830s, a typical street with shops, pharmacies, and ancient public baths. Osaka-jo (Osaka Castle) – The construction of this castle started in 1583 by general Toyotomi Hideyoshi. He built it with the aim of showing everyone his power and employed over 100 000 workers for its construction. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan – One of the world’s richest, biggest, and most impressive aquariums. We firmly recommend visiting it at least once, especially if you have kids in tow.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Day 9: Last day in Osaka Umeda Sky Building – One of the most emblematic buildings of the city .This magnificent building offers a 360º view of Osaka from up above and is especially beautiful at night. Dotonbori – This is one of the most popular and essential tourist destinations in Osaka a single street that represents a whole city.

Kuromon Ichiba Market – This is a giant indoor market, whose doors first opened in 1920. The market is located just 10 minutes’ walking distance away from Dotonbori, which makes it the perfect destination, after a long walk. There you will find everything from fresh/live seafood, fresh vegetables, and meat, making for a great meal after a tiring day.

Day 10: The history of Hiroshima

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park – This memorial park is dedicated to showing the world how peace can be achieved once again even after enduring a great amount of suffering. Hiroshima Castle – The castle can be seen from almost any point of the city a place where you will be taken back to samurai times. Mitaki-dera Temple – This is one of the few still-hidden gems of the city. The temple was named after the three waterfalls located within its grounds.

Day 11: Miyajima day trip

Miyajima – the Shrine Island. One of Japan’s most beautiful and popular destinations. Located just a ferry ride away from the coast of Hiroshima (and it can be reached with your Japan Rail Pass), this picturesque island offers spectacular views early in the morning, and during the day, as well as late at night. Itsukushima Shrine – This floating shrine will leave you breathless during your visit. The centerpiece of this Japanese mastery is the Torii gate, which seemingly floats ain the bright blue waters. Momijidani Park – If you want to avoid the crowds, don’t follow the road going directly up to Mt Misen, but look for the signs indicating the smaller trail. Soon you’ll find yourself in beautiful forests made up of thousands of giant trees, which offer shelter on rainy days and a fresh breeze in the hot summer.

Miyajima – The Shrine Island

Day 13: Last day in Fukuoka

Tocho Ji Temple – one of the oldest temples of Japan, guarding a 30-ton Buddha and many rare objects that have been collected over the years. Kawabata Shotengai – This is one of the oldest streets in the city. Currently, a shopping attraction, going down this street will make you feel like you have gone back in time. Fukuoka Tower – Our classic recommendation for the last stop of your visit – an illuminated view from above the city of Fukuoka. In Japan, it has become very popular to meet for a date at such high spaces, which is why this particular tower has an area called Lover’s Sanctuary. Couples can have their names/initials carved on lockets here.

Day 14: Return to Tokyo

Finally, on the last day, we suggest you just sit back and relax on your bullet train seat toward the Tokyo airports and on your journey back home.

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