Japan

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Arrive in Tokyo, check into your hotel, and recover from your journey. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling streets of Shinjuku or Shibuya and enjoy your first authentic Japanese meal.

Day 2: Exploring Tokyo’s Highlights

Discover Tokyo’s iconic attractions: visit the Meiji Shrine, explore the trendy Harajuku district, and marvel at the views from Tokyo Skytree. End the day shopping in Ginza or visiting the historic Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple.

Day 3: Day Trip to Nikko

Take a day trip to Nikko, home to UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Toshogu Shrine. Enjoy the serene beauty of Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji before returning to Tokyo.

Day 4: Kamakura and Yokohama

Visit Kamakura to see the Great Buddha and beautiful Zen temples. Continue to Yokohama for a stroll along the Minato Mirai waterfront and a visit to the famous Cup Noodles Museum.

Day 5: Tokyo to Hakone

Travel to Hakone for a relaxing hot spring experience. Enjoy stunning views of Mount Fuji, take a cruise on Lake Ashi, and ride the Hakone Ropeway. Stay overnight at a traditional ryokan.

Day 6: Hakone to Kyoto

Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto. Explore the historic Gion district, famous for geisha culture, and visit the beautiful Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Day 7: Temples and Gardens of Kyoto

Spend the day visiting Kyoto’s iconic temples and gardens, including the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), Ryoan-ji, and the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Take a walk across the Togetsukyo Bridge for stunning views.

Day 8: Nara and Uji Day Trip

Visit Nara to see the giant Buddha statue at Todai-ji Temple and feed the friendly deer in Nara Park. Stop by Uji for its famous green tea and the historic Byodo-in Temple.

Day 9: Kyoto to Osaka

Travel to Osaka and explore the vibrant Dotonbori district with its neon lights and street food. Visit Osaka Castle and enjoy panoramic city views from the Umeda Sky Building.

Day 10: Day Trip to Himeji and Kobe

Take a day trip to Himeji to visit the iconic Himeji Castle. Continue to Kobe to sample its world-renowned Kobe beef and explore the picturesque Kobe Harborland.

Day 11: Hiroshima and Miyajima Island

Travel to Hiroshima and visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its "floating" torii gate.

Day 12: Kanazawa – Tradition and Art

Head to Kanazawa to explore the well-preserved samurai and geisha districts. Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s top three gardens, and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.

Day 13: Takayama and Shirakawa-go

Travel to Takayama for a taste of traditional Japan. Visit the old town and local markets before heading to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO-listed village known for its thatched-roof houses.

Day 14: Return to Tokyo and Departure

Return to Tokyo and spend your final day shopping in Akihabara or exploring Odaiba. Enjoy a farewell dinner before heading to the airport for your departure.

Extra Activities

• Tea Ceremony: Participate in a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto or Kanazawa.

• Sake Tasting: Visit a sake brewery to learn about Japan’s famous rice wine.

• Sumo Experience: Attend a sumo wrestling match or visit a sumo stable in Tokyo.

• Kaiseki Dinner: Indulge in a multi-course traditional Japanese meal at a high-end restaurant.

• Mount Fuji Climbing (Seasonal): For the adventurous, consider hiking to Mount Fuji’s summit.

• Onsen Bathing: Enjoy Japan’s relaxing hot spring culture in Hakone, Beppu, or other regions.

This itinerary balances Japan’s vibrant cities, tranquil countryside, and rich traditions to create a memorable two-week journey. Let me know if adjustments are needed! 🇯🇵