Itinerary
- Day 1
Tokyo
After landing in Tokyo, you'll want to take things slow and let your body adjust. Settle into your guesthouse in Asakusa and rest up from the flight. If jet lag isn't hitting too hard, walk around the neighborhood and try some local restaurants. There's plenty of time to get your bearings before diving into sightseeing tomorrow.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (TenTen Guesthouse in Asakusa)
Optional Activities
- Explore surroundings of accommodation
- Sample local delicacies at restaurants and bistros
- Day 2
Tokyo
This morning, head into old Tokyo to walk through historic streets lined with traditional shops. Later, you'll reach a large city park where you can see lotus flowers and check out the zoo. Take the famous Tokyo subway (the system itself is worth experiencing), then make your way to a sumo arena to watch wrestlers compete. By evening, get to Akihabara with its bright neon signs, anime shops, and game arcades. Grab dinner at a local restaurant before heading back.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (TenTen Guesthouse in Asakusa)
Optional Activities
- Wander through Yanaka Ginza for a taste of old Tokyo and charming souvenirs
- Explore Ueno Park, a vast urban oasis home to serene temples, a zoo, and various museums
- Discover the ancient Sensoji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most colorful Buddhist temple, via the iconic Kaminarimon Gate
- Stroll along Nakamise Shopping Street, bustling with traditional stalls offering local delicacies and unique souvenirs
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant, neon-lit world of Akihabara, the hub for anime, manga, and electronics
Landmarks Yanaka Ginza Ueno Park Sensoji Temple Kaminarimon Gate Nakamise Shopping Street Akihabara 
- Day 3
Tokyo to Yokohama
Start by viewing the emperor's residence from outside the gates. From there, head to Tokyo's version of the Eiffel Tower for views across the city. Next, visit the world's largest fish market to try fresh seafood and local specialties. You'll also stop at a quiet temple to pay respects. Later, transfer to Yokohama by the coast where you'll walk along the waterfront, explore the port terminal, and visit Chinatown. If you're interested, there's a Ferris wheel or cable car available.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (TenTen Guesthouse in Asakusa)
Optional Activities
- Admire the majestic Imperial Palace from Kokyo Gaien Plaza, surrounded by vast gardens and moats
- Savor fresh seafood at the bustling Tsukiji Outer Market, a paradise for food lovers
- Find serenity at Hamarikyu Gardens, a traditional Japanese garden with tidal ponds, offering a peaceful escape amidst skyscrapers
- Visit the impressive Yokohama Chinatown, a vibrant enclave perfect for delicious Chinese cuisine and unique souvenirs
- Experience the modern marvel of Osanbashi Wharf, with its unique wave-like roof offering stunning panoramic views of Yokohama Bay and the city skyline
Landmarks Imperial Palace Kokyo Gaien Plaza Tokyo Tower Tsukiji Outer Market Hamarikyu Gardens Yokohama Chinatown Osanbashi Wharf 
- Day 4
Kamakura
Travel to Kamakura, a coastal city that was once Japan's political center. Spend your day finding Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines scattered throughout the surrounding hills. The main reason you're here is the Great Buddha, a bronze statue that's been sitting outdoors for centuries and overlooks the region. The concentration of temples alone makes this a full day of exploring.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (HOTEL MYSTAYS Yokohama Kannai)
Optional Activities
- Discover the ancient Engaku-ji Temple, a significant Zen Buddhist temple nestled in the hills of Kamakura
- Wander through the tranquil grounds of Meigetsu-in, known as the 'Hydrangea Temple' for its stunning blooms in June
- Explore the serene Kencho-ji Temple, the oldest Zen temple in Kamakura, featuring expansive grounds and a national treasure bell
- Visit the grand Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū Shrine, a pivotal Shinto shrine dedicated to the Minamoto family and samurai
- Marvel at the monumental Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kōtoku-in), an impressive bronze statue that has stood outdoors for centuries
Landmarks Engaku-ji Temple Meigetsu-in Kencho-ji Temple Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū Shrine Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kōtoku-in) 
- Day 5
Hakone
Head into Hakone National Park where volcanic activity shapes the landscape. You'll ride a scenic train through forested hills, then switch to a cable car and ropeway that takes you over active volcanic craters. Watch for smoking gases and yellow sulfur deposits. Try the local specialty: black eggs cooked in volcanic steam. Later, take a boat cruise across a lake with views of a torii gate, and if the weather cooperates, you might see Mount Fuji in the distance.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Yumoto Station Hotel MIRAHAKONE)
Optional Activities
- Immerse yourself in art and nature at The Hakone Open-Air Museum, showcasing sculptures amidst stunning natural landscapes
- Experience the dramatic volcanic landscape of Owakudani, with its active sulfur vents and views of Mount Fuji on clear days
- Sail across the picturesque Lake Ashi on a pirate ship, enjoying scenic views and the iconic torii gate of Hakone Shrine
- Stroll through the serene Old Tōkaidō Road Ancient Cedar Avenue, lined with magnificent old cedar trees
- Visit the spiritual Hakone Shrine, known for its iconic torii gate seemingly floating on Lake Ashi and nestled in lush forests
Landmarks Hakone National Park The Hakone Open-Air Museum Owakudani Lake Ashi Hakone Shrine Mount Fuji Old Tōkaidō Road Ancient Cedar Avenue 
- Day 6
Kyoto
You've arrived in Kyoto, which served as Japan's imperial capital for over a thousand years. Explore the eastern part of the city with its temples and traditional buildings. Visit Kiyomizudera Temple for views of the city below. Wander through historic neighborhoods where you might see actual geishas. This is just the start of your temple exploration in Kyoto.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Yumoto Station Hotel MIRAHAKONE)
Optional Activities
- Wander along Tetsugaku No Michi (Philosopher's Path), a peaceful canal-side walk connecting several temples
- Explore Nanzenji Temple, a significant Zen Buddhist temple with beautiful gardens and a striking aqueduct
- Visit the grand Heian Shrine, recognizable by its massive torii gate and serene gardens
- Discover the historical Kodaiji Temple, a complex of temples with beautiful interiors and surrounding gardens
- Stroll through the charming, hilly streets of Higašijama, where you might catch a glimpse of a geisha amidst traditional wooden houses and artisan shops
Landmarks Kiyomizudera Temple Tetsugaku No Michi (Philosopher's Path) Nanzenji Temple Heian Shrine Kodaiji Temple Higašijama 
- Day 7
Kyoto
Head to the Arashiyama district on the western side to get closer to nature. Visit a local park where you can see and feed monkeys, though keep an eye on your belongings since they can be mischievous. Walk through a bamboo forest, a landscape that defines East Asia. After that, continue exploring more temples and shrines throughout the day, mixing outdoor experiences with spiritual sites.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Fujitaya BnB)
Optional Activities
- Cross the scenic Togetsukyō Bridge, an ancient wooden bridge offering picturesque views of the Hozugawa River
- Encounter playful macaques and enjoy panoramic city views at Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tenryūji Temple, the main Zen temple in Arashiyama with a stunning landscape garden
- Wander through the ethereal Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, a truly photogenic and immersive experience
- Visit Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), a stunning Zen temple with its top two floors completely covered in gold leaf, shimmering over a pond
Landmarks Arashiyama Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama Togetsukyō Bridge Hozugawa River Tenryūji Temple Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) 
- Day 8
Himeji to Hiroshima
Leave early from Osaka's main station building. Travel to Himeji Castle, known as the 'White Heron Castle' for its appearance and recognized as one of Japan's best-preserved castles. Head to Hiroshima next and spend time at the Peace Memorial Museum for a serious look at World War II history and the atomic bombing. Explore the peaceful gardens nearby or walk the main shopping street for food and shopping.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Fujitaya BnB)
Optional Activities
- Admire the magnificent Himeji Castle, often called the 'White Heron Castle,' renowned for its impressive size, beauty, and well-preserved complex
- Wander through the serene Koko-en Garden, a traditional Japanese garden located next to Himeji Castle, featuring nine distinct garden styles
- Reflect on history at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, offering a poignant and personal insight into the atomic bombing
- Witness the haunting remains of the Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a stark reminder of the 1945 bombing
- Pay your respects at the Hiroshima Victims Memorial Cenotaph, an arched monument honoring the victims of the atomic bomb
Landmarks Osaka Station Himeji Castle Koko-en Garden Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Atomic Bomb Dome Hiroshima Victims Memorial Cenotaph 
- Day 9
Kyoto
Today focuses on Kyoto's secular side. Start at the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former home of Japan's Imperial Family, then tour the nearby castle. Browse the bustling local markets for souvenirs and specialties. The highlight comes when you reach Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine with its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up through the hills. It's a photographer's favorite and spiritually significant spot in your Kyoto visit.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Fujitaya BnB)
Optional Activities
- Discover culinary delights and local specialties at Nishiki Market, Kyoto's vibrant 'Kitchen'
- Step back in time at Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once served as the Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa shoguns
- Explore the serene grounds of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, once the residence of Japan's Imperial Family
- Embark on a spiritual journey through the thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto's most iconic and atmospheric shrines
Landmarks Kyoto Imperial Palace Nijo Castle Nishiki Market Fushimi Inari Taisha 
- Day 10
Osaka
Move to Osaka, Japan's second-largest city and economic center. Walk along the busiest street with its music and lights. Visit the old castle surrounded by stone walls and a park. Try local food at bustling street markets. If you're feeling adventurous, check out the district known for being rough around the edges. Sample takoyaki (Japanese pizza) and other local dishes while taking in the tall buildings and neon signs that light the constantly busy streets.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Guesthouse Nara Komachi)
Optional Activities
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant, somewhat bohemian district of Shinsekai, characterized by its nostalgic charm and the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower
- Explore Osaka Nipponbashi Denden Town, a bustling area similar to Tokyo's Akihabara, offering electronics, anime, and manga goods
- Savor authentic local delicacies at the bustling Kuromon Market, a food paradise with a wide array of fresh seafood and street food
- Experience the dazzling nightlife and culinary delights of Dotonbori, a vibrant street adorned with giant neon signs and famous for its diverse restaurants
- Discover the historic Osaka Castle, a magnificent landmark surrounded by impressive stone walls, moats, and a lush park
Landmarks Shinsekai Tsutenkaku Tower Osaka Nipponbashi Denden Town Kuromon Market Dotonbori Osaka Castle 
- Day 11
Fukuoka
Spend time in Canal City shopping district with its central waterway and fountain shows. Pop into nearby temples or shrines for a spiritual break. Browse the shopping arcade for souvenirs and local items. See castle ruins and look out at the sea from the coastal area. Visit a romantic island surrounded by canals, then stop by the famous yatai food stalls for local meals. If you're visiting in early July, you might see the colorful Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (&AND HOSTEL SHINSAIBASHI EAST)
Optional Activities
- Explore CANAL CITY HAKATA, a sprawling shopping and entertainment complex with a central canal and dazzling fountain shows
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival, particularly if you visit in early July
- Wander through the lively Kawabata Shopping Arcade, a covered street filled with diverse shops and restaurants
- Visit Kushida Shrine, an important Shinto shrine and the starting point for the famous Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival
- Experience Fukuoka's iconic outdoor food stalls, or Nakasu Food Stalls Street (Yatai), offering a wide array of local and international culinary delights by the canal
Landmarks CANAL CITY HAKATA Kawabata Shopping Arcade Kushida Shrine Nakasu Food Stalls Street (Yatai) 
- Day 12
Miyajima
Take a day trip to Miyajima, the sacred island. See the iconic torii gate that seems to float out of the water. At high tide it's partially submerged, but at low tide you can walk right to it. Explore temples and shrines on the island. For those up for hiking, climb Mount Misen for panoramic views. You'll encounter sacred deer roaming around (no feeding allowed). Before leaving, try momiji manju (maple leaf cakes filled with bean jam) and fresh oysters.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (HOTEL MYSTAYS Hiroshima Peace Park)
Optional Activities
- Indulge in local delicacies like momiji manju and fresh oysters on Miyajima Omotesandō Shopping Street
- Visit Hokoku-jinja (Senjokaku Pavilion), a spacious hall offering serene views and a glimpse into history
- Marvel at the iconic 'floating' torii gate and the ancient structures of Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Explore the diverse buildings, statues, and tranquil atmosphere of Daishoin Temple, nestled at the foot of Mount Misen
- Hike up Mount Misen, the highest peak on Miyajima, for breathtaking panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and Hiroshima
Landmarks Itsukushima Shrine Miyajima Omotesandō Shopping Street Hokoku-jinja (Senjokaku Pavilion) Daishoin Temple Mount Misen 
- Day 13
Uji to Nara
Start in Uji, a town known for producing high-quality green tea. Participate in a traditional tea ceremony in a historic setting surrounded by tea culture. Then travel to Nara, the holy city. Feed the sacred deer with crackers and watch them bow. Explore the beautiful temples and historic neighborhoods, learning about the city's rich past.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (HOTEL MYSTAYS Hiroshima Peace Park)
Optional Activities
- Partake in a traditional tea ceremony in Uji, a town famous for its high-quality green tea and rich tea culture
- Visit the exquisite Byōdōin Temple in Uji, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its Phoenix Hall and serene gardens
- Explore the historical Ujigami Shrine, one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, closely connected to Byōdō-in Temple
- Discover Kōfukuji Temple, a historic temple in Nara boasting impressive pagodas and valuable artifacts
- Encounter hundreds of freely roaming sacred deer in Nara Park, interacting with these gentle creatures while exploring the park's grand temples and museums
Landmarks Uji Byōdōin Temple Ujigami Shrine Kōfukuji Temple Nara Park 
- Day 14
Beppu
Welcome to Beppu on Kyushu Island, nicknamed 'hell' because of volcanic activity everywhere. From higher spots, watch steam rise from the smoking areas. Beppu has the most hot springs of any area in Japan. Don't skip the famous thermal lakes called Hells of Beppu. Though too hot for swimming, they're incredible to see. Finally, experience a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring bath), making sure to follow the proper etiquette.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (J-Hoppers Beppu Guesthouse ジェイホッパーズ別府ゲストハウス)
Optional Activities
- Immerse yourself in the unique and colorful thermal lakes of Hells of Beppu (Jigoku Meguri), a collection of seven spectacular hot springs too hot for bathing
- Witness the vibrant, boiling blue waters of Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell), one of the most beautiful of Beppu's Hells
- Experience the bubbling mud pools and take a relaxing foot bath at Oniishi Bozu Jigoku (Monk's Head Hell)
- Discover the intriguing Kamado Jigoku (Cooking Pot Hell), where you can drink spring water, enjoy hand/foot baths, and taste hot spring-steamed treats
- Indulge in a traditional Japanese hot spring experience at Hyotan Onsen, known for its outdoor thermal pools and sand baths
Landmarks Hells of Beppu (Jigoku Meguri) Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) Oniishi Bozu Jigoku (Monk's Head Hell) Kamado Jigoku (Cooking Pot Hell) Hyotan Onsen - Day 15
Mount Aso
Hike to Mount Aso's crater, one of the world's most active and largest volcanoes in central Kyushu. This volcano erupts frequently or at least releases gas and dust regularly. The area sometimes closes to visitors for safety reasons. If conditions allow, this could be one of your trip's highlights, offering spectacular views of the volcanic landscape and geothermal activity.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (lyf Tenjin Fukuoka)
Optional Activities
- Explore the vast caldera of Aso Sanjo Terminal, offering breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape and surrounding pastures
- Hike to the magnificent crater of Mt. Nakadake, one of the world's most active volcanoes, for spectacular panoramic views
- Visit the serene Asosanjo-jinja Shrine, a small shrine nestled amidst the volcanoes, offering a peaceful contrast to the natural forces at play
- Delve into the geological history of the region at the Aso Volcano Museum, learning about eruptions and volcanic formations
Landmarks Mount Aso Mt. Nakadake Aso Sanjo Terminal Asosanjo-jinja Shrine Aso Volcano Museum - Day 16
Fukuoka to Tokyo
Your Japan trip is winding down, but you've got a full day ahead. Most of it involves riding the Shinkansen bullet train back to Tokyo, covering roughly half the country. The journey itself is an experience worth having. This leaves you about half a day for activities, so consider revisiting favorite spots in Fukuoka, exploring more of Tokyo, visiting Tokyo Disneyland, or stopping in Okayama on the way. You'll arrive in Tokyo by evening.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (lyf Tenjin Fukuoka)
Optional Activities
- Spend more time exploring Fukuoka, revisiting favorite spots like Kawabata shopping arcade for souvenirs or Canal City for entertainment
- Visit Uminonakamichi Seaside Park and the Marine World Uminonakamichi aquarium in Fukuoka for a fun coastal experience
- Dedicate the rest of your day to exploring more of Tokyo, perhaps discovering new areas like the upscale Ginza district or the vibrant Shinbashi area with its many restaurants
- Consider a magical day at Tokyo Disney Land, for those who seek thrilling rides and enchanting entertainment
- Break up your Shinkansen journey with a stop in Okayama, a historic town renowned for its beautiful gardens
Landmarks Ginza Shinbashi Tokyo Disney Land Okayama 
- Day 17
Tokyo
Explore Tokyo's most energetic neighborhoods. Witness the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing, the world's busiest intersection you've seen in movies. Visit Meiji Shrine with its large entrance gate and forest setting, offering a quiet contrast to the surrounding urban chaos. Relax in a well-kept garden. Head to vibrant Shinjuku and the Kabukicho entertainment district if you want nightlife options.
Optional Activities
- Witness the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing, a true spectacle of urban life
- Seek tranquility at Meiji Jingu Shrine, nestled within a lush forest, a stark contrast to the surrounding city
- Relax and unwind at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a serene escape with Japanese, French, and English gardens
- Ascend to the observation decks of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for breathtaking panoramic views of the city at no cost
- Dive into the dazzling nightlife and entertainment of Kabukicho, Tokyo's famous 'red light district,' also home to quirky themed cafes and robot restaurants
Landmarks Shibuya Scramble Crossing Meiji Jingu Shrine Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Kabukicho 
- Day 18
Tokyo
Your time in Japan is ending. If you have hours before your flight, take one more walk through Tokyo's streets, spend time in a park, or visit a temple to ask for safe travels. Pick up last-minute souvenirs or things you need. Have one final hearty meal of local food. A glass of sake is the perfect way to toast your experience. Sayonara!
Optional Activities
- Take a final stroll through Tokyo's vibrant streets
- Spend time in beautiful manicured parks
- Visit temples or shrines for a final blessing
- Shop for last-minute souvenirs or practical items
- Enjoy a final meal of local delicacies
- Toast with sake before departure
