10 day itinerary
Japan
Personalized with:No much tourist
Itinerary
Japan is a treasure trove of culture, nature, and delicious food, and I’m excited to help you craft a 10-day itinerary that steers clear of the typical tourist traps. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Morning: Arrive at . Take a moment to soak in the excitement of being in Japan!
- Afternoon: Head to the , a charming area that survived the bombings of WWII. Stroll through the narrow streets, visit local shops, and enjoy a quiet lunch at a traditional soba noodle shop.
- Evening: Explore the area. It’s less crowded in the evening, and you can enjoy a peaceful walk. Grab dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese pub) nearby.
Day 2: Tokyo - Off the Beaten Path
- Morning: Visit the , known for its beautiful torii gates and serene atmosphere. It’s a hidden gem!
- Afternoon: Head to the for a quiet walk among the cherry blossoms (if in season) and historical graves. Then, explore the nearby for some local snacks.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in the , known for its vintage shops and laid-back vibe. Try some local ramen!
Day 3: Nikko Day Trip
- Morning: Take an early train to Nikko (about 2 hours). Visit the , but instead of the main shrine, explore the surrounding nature trails.
- Afternoon: Hike to and take in the stunning views. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a walk around .
- Evening: Return to Tokyo and enjoy a quiet dinner at a local sushi spot.
Day 4: Travel to Kanazawa
- Morning: Take the shinkansen (bullet train) to Kanazawa (about 2.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the , one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens. It’s less crowded than others and perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Evening: Explore the , known for its traditional teahouses. Enjoy a kaiseki dinner (traditional multi-course meal) at a local restaurant.
Day 5: Kanazawa - Culture and Crafts
- Morning: Visit the . It’s a fantastic blend of modern art and architecture.
- Afternoon: Explore the , where you can see preserved samurai houses. Don’t forget to check out the local craft shops!
- Evening: Try some local seafood at , where you can find fresh sushi and other delicacies.
Day 6: Takayama
- Morning: Travel to Takayama (about 2 hours by bus).
- Afternoon: Explore the , known for its well-preserved Edo-period buildings. Visit a sake brewery and sample some local brews!
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Hida beef dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 7: and
- Morning: Take a bus to , a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the gassho-zukuri farmhouses and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.
- Afternoon: Head to , another beautiful village with fewer tourists. Take a leisurely hike and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Evening: Return to Takayama for a cozy dinner at a local izakaya.
Day 8: Kyoto - Hidden Gems
- Morning: Travel to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours). Start your day at the less-visited , known for its 1,200 stone statues.
- Afternoon: Visit the , a lovely canal-side walk lined with cherry trees. Stop by small cafes and shops along the way.
- Evening: Explore the for dinner, where you can find a mix of traditional and modern dining options.
Day 9: Nara Day Trip
- Morning: Take a short train ride to Nara (about 1 hour). Visit the , but then head to , a preserved merchant district.
- Afternoon: Explore the quaint streets, visit local shops, and enjoy a peaceful afternoon in , where you can see the famous free-roaming deer.
- Evening: Return to Kyoto and enjoy a quiet dinner at a local okonomiyaki restaurant.
Day 10: Departure from Osaka
- Morning: Travel to Osaka (about 30 minutes). If time allows, visit the for a final stroll.
- Afternoon: Explore the for some last-minute shopping and street food. Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki!
- Evening: Head to for your departure.
And there you have it! A delightful 10-day itinerary that takes you through some of Japan’s hidden gems while avoiding the tourist crowds. Enjoy your adventure, and don’t forget to savor every bite of the delicious food along the way! Safe travels! 🌸✈️