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20 Day itinerary toJapan
20
days26/02/25 - 17/03/25
Distance by day
Local travel distance per day in km.Pan drag left and right to see all data.
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Day 1
TokyoâžžTokyo
Travel time: 0 hr| Travel distance: 0 km
Morning
- Visit the iconic Tokyo Tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city
- Explore the Tsukiji Outer Market, savoring fresh sushi and local delicacies
- Stroll through the historic streets of Asakusa, visiting Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple
Afternoon
- Enjoy a boat cruise on the Sumida River
- Visit the Edo-Tokyo Museum to learn about Tokyo's rich history
- Explore the modern architectural marvels of Odaiba, including the futuristic Miraikan Museum
- Relax in the tranquil gardens of Hama-Rikyu Gardens, a former imperial garden
Evening
- Experience the vibrant nightlife of Shibuya, famous for its bustling crosswalk
- Dine at an authentic izakaya in Shinjuku, savoring local dishes such as yakitori and tempura
Accomodation
- Stay at Tokyo Central Youth Hostel, budget-friendly with excellent access to public transport and attractions.
Day 2
TokyoâžžTokyo
Travel time: 0 hr| Travel distance: 0 km
Morning
- Visit the Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine surrounded by a forest
- Explore the colorful Takeshita Street in Harajuku, famous for its fashion scene
- Visit Yoyogi Park, ideal for a morning walk or a leisurely picnic
Afternoon
- Discover Japanese art at the Nezu Museum
- Wander through the Omotesando shopping avenue, known for modern architecture
- Explore the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park
- Visit the Ueno Zoo, home to a diverse range of animal species
Evening
- Enjoy a sunset view from the Tokyo Skytree
- Experience the traditional Kabuki Theatre in Ginza
Accomodation
- Stay at the same accommodation: Tokyo Central Youth Hostel.
Day 3
TokyoâžžHakone
Travel time: 1.5 hr| Travel distance: 95 km
Morning
- Take a train to Hakone, known for its hot springs and views of Mount Fuji
- Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, featuring sculptures and verdant grounds
- Explore Gora Park, a beautiful European-style landscape garden
Afternoon
- Experience the scenic Hakone Ropeway cable car with views of Owakudani Valley
- Visit the Hakone Shrine, nestled in a lush forest on the shores of Lake Ashi
- Enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Ashi with stunning views of Mount Fuji
- Visit the Hakone Glass no Mori, a charming art museum surrounded by traditional gardens
Evening
- Relax in a traditional onsen (hot spring bath)
- Have a traditional Kaiseki dinner at the ryokan, experiencing various Japanese delicacies
Accomodation
- Stay at a traditional ryokan in Hakone, like Hotel Okada, offering onsen facilities and dinner included.
Day 4
HakoneâžžKyoto
Travel time: 2.5 hr| Travel distance: 400 km
Morning
- Travel by Shinkansen (Bullet Train) to Kyoto, Japan's historical capital
- Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a stunning Zen Buddhist temple surrounded by beautiful gardens
- Explore the historic district of Higashiyama, home to traditional wooden machiya houses
Afternoon
- Stroll through the Philosopher's Path, especially scenic during cherry blossom season
- Visit the majestic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, known for its wooden stage and panoramic views
- Discover the traditional Geisha district of Gion, filled with tea houses and charming narrow lanes
- Visit Kyoto National Museum to explore its treasures of Japanese art
Evening
- Experience a traditional Kaiseki dinner in Kyoto
- Attend a Gion Corner show with performances of traditional arts like tea ceremony and flower arrangement
Accomodation
- Stay at the Guesthouse Kyomachiya, a budget-friendly stay in a traditional Kyoto house.
Day 5
KyotoâžžKyoto
Travel time: 0 hr| Travel distance: 0 km
Morning
- Visit Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning gardens and historic architecture
- Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, walking among towering bamboo stalks
- Cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge to reach the Iwatayama Monkey Park, observing wild Japanese macaques
Afternoon
- Visit Tenryu-ji Temple, renowned for its stunning garden and historical significance
- Explore the scenic Sagano Scenic Railway, providing picturesque views of the Hozugawa River
- Visit the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, showcasing diverse flora and themed gardens
- Explore the Kyoto Imperial Palace, former residence of the Emperor of Japan
Evening
- Enjoy a traditional Maiko performance, showcasing Kyoto's Geisha culture
- Dine at Nishiki Warai, specializing in Kyoto's local Okonomiyaki
Accomodation
- Stay at the same accommodation: Guesthouse Kyomachiya.
Day 6
KyotoâžžNara
Travel time: 1 hr| Travel distance: 40 km
Morning
- Travel to Nara, famous for its free-roaming deer and historic sites
- Visit Todai-ji Temple, housing a giant bronze Buddha statue
- Walk through Nara Park, home to hundreds of freely walking deer and historic Shinto shrines
Afternoon
- Explore the Kasuga-taisha, a beautiful Shinto shrine known for its many bronze lanterns
- Visit the Nara National Museum, showcasing Buddhist art
- Walk through Isuien Garden, a traditional Japanese garden with tea houses
- Visit Yoshikien Garden, featuring a pond garden and a rustic tea house
Evening
- Return to Kyoto and enjoy an evening walk along the Kamo River
- Dine at Pontocho Alley, known for its atmospheric restaurants by the river
Accomodation
- Return to stay at Guesthouse Kyomachiya in Kyoto.
Day 7
KyotoâžžOsaka
Travel time: 1 hr| Travel distance: 50 km
Morning
- Take the train to Osaka, Japan's vibrant food capital
- Visit the Osaka Castle, a grand structure surrounded by beautiful gardens
- Explore the Osaka Museum of History nearby
Afternoon
- Experience the bustling atmosphere of Dotonbori, famous for its neon lights and street food
- Visit the Kuromon Ichiba Market, sampling Osaka's signature dishes such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki
- Explore the Umeda Sky Building, featuring an impressive floating garden observatory
- Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, known for its interactive displays and extensive marine life
Evening
- Enjoy a traditional Kansai-style sushi dinner
- Stroll through the vibrant entertainment district of Namba
Accomodation
- Stay at Osaka Guesthouse Hive, a budget-friendly hostel with easy access to major attractions.
Day 8
OsakaâžžHimeji
Travel time: 1.5 hr| Travel distance: 90 km
Morning
- Travel by train to Himeji, home to Japan's most spectacular castle
- Visit Himeji Castle, also known as the 'White Heron Castle' due to its brilliant white exterior
- Explore the Kokoen Garden, traditional Edo-style gardens adjacent to Himeji Castle
Afternoon
- Visit Engyo-ji Temple, located atop Mount Shosha, accessible by a short ropeway ride
- Discover the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of History, learning about the area's cultural heritage
- Stroll through the city's shopping arcades for local goods and snacks
- Relax in the peaceful Himeji City Zoo
Evening
- Return to Osaka and enjoy an evening in the trendy district of Tennoji
- Dine at a local izakaya specializing in kushikatsu, skewered and deep-fried treats
Accomodation
- Return to stay at Osaka Guesthouse Hive.
Day 9
OsakaâžžKobe
Travel time: 1 hr| Travel distance: 30 km
Morning
- Take the train to Kobe, known for its multicultural history and Kobe beef
- Visit the Kobe Maritime Museum, learning about maritime history and viewing the Kobe Port Tower
- Explore the Meriken Park with its modern art installations and harbor views
Afternoon
- Visit the Kitano-cho district, famous for its Western-style houses and international heritage
- Enjoy a Kobe beef lunch, savoring one of the world’s finest cuts of beef
- Visit the Kobe City Museum to discover its diverse art and cultural history
- Explore the Nunobiki Herb Garden, accessed by the Shin-Kobe Ropeway
Evening
- Return to Osaka and enjoy a relaxing night walk along the Nakanoshima riverfront
- Dine at a traditional teppanyaki restaurant, experiencing skilled chefs cooking on your hotplate table
Accomodation
- Return to stay at Osaka Guesthouse Hive.
Day 10
OsakaâžžHiroshima
Travel time: 1.5 hr| Travel distance: 330 km
Morning
- Travel to Hiroshima, a city with a rich history and hope for peace
- Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, reflecting on the events of 1945
- See the Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage site symbolizing peace
Afternoon
- Take a ferry to Miyajima Island, famous for the floating Torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine
- Visit the Daisho-in Temple, one of the most distinguished temples in Miyajima
- Explore the Momijidani Park, a scenic maple valley on the island
- Discover local crafts and treats on Omotesando Shopping Street
Evening
- Return to Hiroshima and enjoy a Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki dinner
- Stroll through the lively Hondori Shopping Arcade
Accomodation
- Stay at Hiroshima Hana Hostel, a comfortable budget option close to major sites.
Day 11
HiroshimaâžžHiroshima
Travel time: 0 hr| Travel distance: 0 km
Morning
- Visit the Hiroshima Castle, a recreation of the original feudal warlord's castle
- Explore the Shukkeien Garden, featuring miniature sceneries modeled after Xi Hu in China
- Visit the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art, exhibiting modern art pieces
Afternoon
- Relax at the Hiroshima Botanical Garden, home to various plant collections
- Visit the Mazda Museum, exploring the history of this innovative car manufacturer
- Discover the Hiroshima Museum of Art, showcasing European and Japanese art
- Wander through Hijiyama Park, offering panoramic views of the city
Evening
- Enjoy a local seafood dinner, featuring fresh Seto Inland Sea specialties
- Experience shopping and entertainment in the Hiroshima Parco complex
Accomodation
- Stay another night at Hiroshima Hana Hostel.
Day 12
HiroshimaâžžOkayama
Travel time: 1.5 hr| Travel distance: 160 km
Morning
- Travel to Okayama, known for its gardens and castles
- Visit Korakuen Garden, one of Japan's finest landscape gardens
- Explore the Okayama Castle, 'Crow Castle', known for its striking black exterior
Afternoon
- Visit the Okayama Prefectural Museum, encompassing local history and fine arts
- Wander through the Kibiji District, with historic sites along the old Kibiji Road
- Relax on a scenic boat ride on the Asahi River
- Discover the Hayashibara Museum of Art, featuring samurai swords and, tea ceremony artifacts
Evening
- Return to Hiroshima for your last night at Hana Hostel
- Dine in a local izakaya to enjoy a farewell dinner with regional cuisine
Accomodation
- Stay at Hiroshima Hana Hostel.
Day 13
HiroshimaâžžNagoya
Travel time: 2.5 hr| Travel distance: 320 km
Morning
- Travel to Nagoya, a hub of innovation and commerce
- Visit Nagoya Castle, known for its beautiful architecture and golden shachihoko
- Explore the Tokugawa Art Museum, showcasing a collection of samurai artifacts
Afternoon
- Visit the Atsuta Shrine, famous for its storied history and ancient sword
- Discover the beauty of the expansive grounds at the Nagoya City Science Museum
- Explore the Noritake Garden, dedicated to ceramic ware and history
- Visit the Osu Shopping District, known for tech gadgets and trendy fashion
Evening
- Enjoy a delicious Nagoya Cochin chicken dinner
- Visit the lively Sakae district for nightlife and entertainment
Accomodation
- Stay at Nagoya Travellers Hostel, offering a central location and budget rates.
Day 14
NagoyaâžžTakayama
Travel time: 2 hr| Travel distance: 150 km
Morning
- Travel to Takayama, known for its preserved Edo-period streets
- Explore Sanmachi Suji, the historic district with well-preserved old merchant houses
- Visit the Takayama Jinya, a former government outpost, for a glimpse of feudal administration
Afternoon
- Experience the Hida Folk Village, an open-air museum showcasing traditional rural architecture
- Visit the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall, housing elaborate festival floats
- Discover the Shiroyama Park, offering nature trails and views of Takayama
- Sample local specialties, such as Hida beef and fresh sake, in Takayama's breweries
Evening
- Enjoy an onsen bath at your accommodation to relax after a day of exploration
- Dine at Suzuya, known for its Hida beef hotpots
Accomodation
- Stay at Minshuku Iwatakan, offering traditional Japanese rooms and an onsen.
Day 15
TakayamaâžžKanazawa
Travel time: 1.5 hr| Travel distance: 120 km
Morning
- Travel to Kanazawa, known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts
- Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most celebrated gardens for its beauty
- Explore Kanazawa Castle, providing insights into the city's samurai past
Afternoon
- Explore the historic Nagamachi Samurai District and visit the Nomura Family House
- Discover the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
- Visit the Higashi Chaya District, famous for traditional teahouses and geisha culture
- Explore the D.T. Suzuki Museum, dedicated to the life and philosophy of the Zen Buddhist scholar
Evening
- Enjoy a Kaga-style Kaiseki dinner
- Stroll through the Omicho Market area for evening food and sights
Accomodation
- Stay at Guest House Pongyi, a friendly and affordable accommodation close to main attractions.
Day 16
KanazawaâžžFujikawaguchiko
Travel time: 3 hr| Travel distance: 290 km
Morning
- Rent a car and drive to Fujikawaguchiko, located at the base of Mount Fuji
- Visit Lake Kawaguchi, renowned for its stunning views of Mount Fuji
- Explore the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum, a European-themed cultural facility
Afternoon
- Visit the Chureito Pagoda, where you'll find one of the most iconic views of Mount Fuji
- Explore the Fuji-Q Highland theme park, for thrilling rides and family entertainment
- Visit the Iyashi no Sato, an open-air museum dedicated to traditional thatched-roof houses
- Stroll through Oishi Park, famous for seasonal flower displays and beautiful vistas
Evening
- Relax at an onsen with views of Mount Fuji
- Enjoy dinner at Kawaguchiko Herb Hall, offering local dishes in a quaint setting
Accomodation
- Stay at K's House Mt. Fuji, a friendly hostel offering great views and facilities.
Day 17
FujikawaguchikoâžžMatsumoto
Travel time: 2 hr| Travel distance: 110 km
Morning
- Drive to Matsumoto, a city known for its stunning historical architecture
- Visit the iconic Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's most beautiful and original castles
- Explore Nakamachi Street, lined with traditional wooden merchant houses
Afternoon
- Discover the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, showcasing works by Yayoi Kusama
- Stroll through the Matsumoto Park, perfect for leisurely walks and relaxation
- Explore the Ukiyo-e Museum, displaying traditional Japanese woodblock prints
- Visit the Kaichi School Museum, one of Japan's earliest examples of Western-style architecture
Evening
- Return to your accommodation for an evening of relaxation and views
- Enjoy an izakaya dinner at a local Matsumoto eatery, sampling mountain vegetable dishes
Accomodation
- Stay at Matsumoto BackPackers, a welcoming and budget-friendly hostel.
Day 18
MatsumotoâžžNagano
Travel time: 1.5 hr| Travel distance: 75 km
Morning
- Travel to Nagano, renowned for its snowy mountains and Buddhist sites
- Visit the Zenko-ji Temple, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Japan
- Explore the Togakushi Shrine, located in the cedar forest of Mt. Togakushi
Afternoon
- Experience the Jigokudani Monkey Park, famous for its snow monkeys bathing in hot springs
- Visit the historic Matsushiro Castle and Samurai District
- Explore the Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum
- Discover the local specialty snacks in the traditional Nakamise Street
Evening
- Return to your accommodation for a relaxing evening
- Dine at a soba noodle restaurant, a local Nagano specialty
Accomodation
- Stay at 1166 Backpackers, a cozy hostel in a convenient location for exploring.
Day 19
NaganoâžžTokyo
Travel time: 2 hr| Travel distance: 230 km
Morning
- Return to Tokyo for the final leg of your journey
- Visit the vibrant Ameya-Yokocho Market, known for its variety of local goods and street food
- Explore the Yanaka Ginza shopping street, retaining a nostalgic atmosphere of post-war Tokyo
Afternoon
- Discover the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building's observation deck for panoramic city views
- Visit the Sumida Hokusai Museum, dedicated to the famous ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai
- Stroll through Akihabara, the district for electronics and otaku culture
- Visit the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi Hills, featuring contemporary art exhibits
Evening
- Enjoy a farewell dinner at an upscale sushi restaurant, a quintessential Tokyo experience
- Take a scenic night cruise on Tokyo Bay to see the illuminated city skyline
Accomodation
- Stay at Ueno Station Hostel Oriental III, providing a convenient and affordable base in Tokyo.
Day 20
TokyoâžžTokyo
Travel time: 0 hr| Travel distance: 0 km
Morning
- Explore the Nezu Shrine, known for its beautiful azalea garden
- Visit the Edo Castle ruins and the Imperial Palace East Garden
- Walk through the lively Kappabashi Kitchen Town, famous for kitchenware and restaurant supplies
Afternoon
- Wander through the traditional Yanesen neighborhood, known for its temples and historic charm
- Visit the National Museum of Western Art, featuring European artworks
- Explore the Ueno Zoo or Science Museum within Ueno Park
- Experience the local delights at Ameyoko, a bustling market street
Evening
- Relax at an ofuro (public bath), a quintessential Japanese bathing experience
- Enjoy your final dinner in Tokyo with a city lights view at a skytop restaurant
Accomodation
- Return to Ueno Station Hostel Oriental III for the last night.
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Tags
early-risers
active
adventure
architecture
art
city-urban
cultural-experience
foodie-experience
hiking
history
local-markets
nature-outdoors
roadtrip
romantic
spa
sports
street-art
street-food
sustainable
walking
wellness
wildlife
wine-tasting
Time of the year
Late February to early March in Japan is generally cool with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). As you travel, you may experience occasional rain and, in some northern or higher altitude areas, snowfall.
This period marks the end of winter and the start of the tourist-friendly cherry blossom season. Tourists often begin to arrive in late March, as the cherry blossoms bloom. Crowds may start to build toward the end of your trip.
Useful information
- For traveler convenience, cash is the most commonly accepted form of payment in smaller towns and for entry to some attractions.
- Public transport and Shinkansen rail passes are highly recommended for intercity travel; consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass for savings.
- Some temple visits require a nominal entry fee.
- Menus may be in Japanese; having a translation app handy may be useful.
- Accommodations have been chosen to offer authentic experiences with budget considerations in mind.
- Consider carrying an extra layer for cooler evenings, especially when traveling to higher altitude locations.
- This itinerary is designed for two adults with varying interests including history, art, food, and nature.
Weather forecast - 16 days
Showing forecasted weather for the upcoming 16 days in Japan.
