10 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan is a fantastic destination for families, and with your love for Pokémon, we can sprinkle in some fun Pokémon-themed activities throughout your trip. Here’s a 10-day itinerary that balances cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and Pokémon adventures. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. After clearing customs, take the Narita Express or Limousine Bus to your hotel in Tokyo.
• Afternoon: Settle in and explore the local area. If you’re near Shinjuku, take a stroll through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden for a relaxing start.
• Evening: Head to the Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo in Ikebukuro! It’s a must-visit for any Pokémon fan. Enjoy dinner at a nearby family-friendly restaurant.

## Day 2: Tokyo - Exploring the City

• Morning: Visit Asakusa and the Senso-ji Temple. Don’t forget to try some traditional snacks from the Nakamise shopping street!
• Afternoon: Head to Ueno Park. You can visit the Ueno Zoo or the National Museum of Nature and Science, which is great for kids.
• Evening: Explore Akihabara, the otaku paradise! Check out the Pokémon Center and enjoy dinner at a themed café, like a maid café or a Pokémon-themed restaurant.

## Day 3: Tokyo - Disney Magic

• All ## Day: Spend the day at Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea. Both parks are incredibly family-friendly and offer a magical experience. Make sure to check out the Pokémon merchandise available in the parks!
• Evening: Enjoy the nighttime parade and fireworks before heading back to your hotel.

## Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko

• Morning: Take an early train to Nikko (about 2 hours). Visit the stunning Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Afternoon: Explore the beautiful nature around Nikko, including Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the scenic surroundings.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and have a relaxing dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.

## Day 5: Travel to Kyoto

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and stroll through its beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Explore the Gion district, where you might catch a glimpse of a geisha. Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner (make sure to book in advance).

## Day 6: Kyoto - Temples and Pokémon

• Morning: Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. It’s a great hike for the family!
• Afternoon: Head to the Kyoto Pokémon Center located in the Kyoto Station area. It’s smaller than the one in Tokyo but still a fun stop!
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly izakaya (Japanese pub) where you can try various dishes.

## Day 7: Day Trip to Nara

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Nara (about 45 minutes). Visit Nara Park, where you can feed the friendly deer!
• Afternoon: Explore Todai-ji Temple, home to a giant Buddha statue. The kids will love the open space to run around.
• Evening: Return to Kyoto and have a casual dinner at a local ramen shop.

## Day 8: Osaka - Food and Fun

• Morning: Travel to Osaka (about 15 minutes by train). Start your day at Osaka Castle and its beautiful park.
• Afternoon: Head to Universal Studios Japan! Enjoy the attractions, including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the Minion Park. Don’t forget to check out the Pokémon-themed merchandise!
• Evening: Explore Dotonbori for dinner. Try local street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. The neon lights and atmosphere are fantastic!

## Day 9: Hiroshima and Miyajima

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima (about 1.5 hours). Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
• Afternoon: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the famous floating torii gate. Explore the island and try the local delicacy, momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes).
• Evening: Return to Hiroshima for dinner, then head back to Osaka for the night.

## Day 10: Departure

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, you can do some last-minute shopping in Osaka or visit the Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan), one of the largest in the world.
• Afternoon: Head to Kansai International Airport for your departure. If you have time, grab some last-minute souvenirs!

Tips:

• Transportation: Get a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen, which is great for families.
• Food: Japan is very family-friendly when it comes to food. Most restaurants have kid-friendly options, and convenience stores offer a variety of snacks.
• Pokémon: Keep an eye out for Pokémon-themed merchandise in various stores, especially in Akihabara and the Pokémon Centers.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Japan! If you have any specific interests or adjustments, feel free to let me know! Safe travels! 🌟