10 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan is such a beautiful country with a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. I’m excited to help you plan a 10-day itinerary that includes Ginzan Onsen, Shirakawa-go, and a ropeway experience. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. After clearing customs, take the Narita Express or the Airport Limousine Bus to your hotel in Tokyo.
• Afternoon: Explore the vibrant district of Shibuya. Don’t miss the famous Shibuya Crossing and the Hachiko statue.
• Evening: Head to Shinjuku for dinner. Try some izakaya (Japanese pub) food and enjoy the neon lights of the area.

## Day 2: Tokyo Sightseeing

• Morning: Visit the historic Asakusa district and the Senso-ji Temple. Stroll through Nakamise Street for some traditional snacks and souvenirs.
• Afternoon: Head to Akihabara, the mecca for anime and electronics. Explore the shops and maybe even visit a themed café.
• Evening: Enjoy a panoramic view of Tokyo from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building or Tokyo Tower. Dinner in the area.

## Day 3: Travel to Ginzan Onsen

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Yamagata. From there, catch a local train to Oishida Station, then a bus to Ginzan Onsen.
• Afternoon: Check into a ryokan (traditional inn) and relax in the onsen (hot springs). Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets lined with wooden buildings.
• Evening: Enjoy a kaiseki dinner at your ryokan, featuring seasonal and local ingredients.

## Day 4: Explore Ginzan Onsen

• Morning: After breakfast, take a guided walking tour of the area. Visit the Ginzan Onsen Museum and learn about the history of this charming hot spring town.
• Afternoon: Enjoy more onsen time or try a local activity like a pottery class or a hike in the surrounding mountains.
• Evening: Relax in the onsen again and enjoy another delightful dinner at your ryokan.

## Day 5: Travel to Shirakawa-go

• Morning: Depart Ginzan Onsen and head back to Yamagata Station. Take the Shinkansen to Takayama.
• Afternoon: From Takayama, take a bus to Shirakawa-go. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
• Evening: Stay overnight in Shirakawa-go. Enjoy a traditional dinner and soak in the serene atmosphere.

## Day 6: Shirakawa-go to Takayama

• Morning: Spend the morning exploring more of Shirakawa-go. Visit the Wada House and take in the stunning views from the observation deck.
• Afternoon: Head back to Takayama. Explore the old town, especially Sanmachi Suji, with its well-preserved Edo-period buildings.
• Evening: Try Hida beef for dinner, a local specialty, and enjoy the charming atmosphere of Takayama.

## Day 7: Takayama to Kanazawa

• Morning: Visit the Takayama Morning Market for some local produce and crafts.
• Afternoon: Take a bus to Kanazawa. Once there, visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Explore the Higashi Chaya District, known for its traditional teahouses. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 8: Kanazawa to Hakone (Ropeway Experience)

• Morning: Depart Kanazawa and take the Shinkansen to Odawara, then transfer to Hakone.
• Afternoon: Ride the Hakone Ropeway for stunning views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding area. Stop at Owakudani Valley to see the volcanic activity and try the famous black eggs!
• Evening: Check into an onsen ryokan in Hakone. Enjoy a relaxing soak and a delicious dinner.

## Day 9: Hakone to Tokyo

• Morning: Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, which features beautiful sculptures and art in a stunning outdoor setting.
• Afternoon: Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Ashi for more views of Mount Fuji.
• Evening: Head back to Tokyo. Spend your last evening shopping in Harajuku or exploring the nightlife in Roppongi.

## Day 10: Departure from Tokyo

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Consider visiting the Meiji Shrine or the Imperial Palace.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure. Don’t forget to grab some omiyage (souvenirs) for friends and family!

And there you have it! A delightful 10-day itinerary that captures the essence of Japan, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene hot springs of Ginzan Onsen and the picturesque village of Shirakawa-go. Enjoy your trip! If you have any questions or need adjustments, feel free to ask!