11 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan is a beautiful country with a perfect blend of modernity and nature. Here’s a delightful 11-day itinerary that focuses on parks and green spaces while steering clear of religious sites. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Head to Ueno Park. It’s a spacious public park with museums, a zoo, and lovely cherry blossoms in spring. Stroll around the park and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
• Evening: Explore Ameyoko Market nearby for some street food and shopping. Try some takoyaki or yakitori!

## Day 2: Tokyo - Shinjuku and Shibuya

• Morning: Visit Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. This expansive garden is a perfect blend of traditional Japanese, English, and French styles. Enjoy a leisurely walk and maybe a picnic!
• Afternoon: Head to Yoyogi Park. It’s a great spot for people-watching, especially on weekends. You might catch some street performers or local musicians.
• Evening: Explore the bustling streets of Shibuya. Don’t forget to take a photo at the famous Shibuya Crossing!

## Day 3: Tokyo - Odaiba

• Morning: Take a trip to Odaiba, a futuristic man-made island. Start with a stroll along the waterfront at Odaiba Seaside Park.
• Afternoon: Visit TeamLab Borderless, an immersive digital art museum. It’s a unique experience that combines art and technology.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in Odaiba with a view of the Rainbow Bridge.

## Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko

• Morning: Take an early train to Nikko (about 2 hours). Explore Nikko National Park. Enjoy the stunning natural scenery, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
• Afternoon: Visit Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls. The views are breathtaking, especially in autumn!
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and relax at your hotel.

## Day 5: Travel to Kyoto

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Maruyama Park, a lovely park with cherry blossoms and a beautiful pond. It’s a great place to unwind.
• Evening: Stroll through the historic Gion District. You might spot a geisha or two!

## Day 6: Kyoto - Arashiyama

• Morning: Head to Arashiyama. Walk through the Bamboo Grove—it’s like stepping into another world!
• Afternoon: Visit Arashiyama Park and take a boat ride on the Hozu River. The scenery is stunning, especially with the mountains in the background.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant.

## Day 7: Kyoto - Nara Day Trip

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Nara (about 45 minutes). Visit Nara Park, where you can see the famous free-roaming deer.
• Afternoon: Explore the park and enjoy a picnic. Don’t miss the beautiful scenery and the friendly deer!
• Evening: Return to Kyoto and relax.

## Day 8: Travel to Osaka

• Morning: Take a train to Osaka (about 15 minutes). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Nakanoshima Park, a lovely riverside park with beautiful gardens and a great view of the city.
• Evening: Explore Dotonbori for dinner. Try local specialties like okonomiyaki and kushikatsu!

## Day 9: Osaka - Minoo Park

• Morning: Take a train to Minoo Park (about 30 minutes). Enjoy a scenic hike through the park, especially beautiful in autumn.
• Afternoon: Try the famous momiji tempura (deep-fried maple leaves) at a local shop in Minoo.
• Evening: Return to Osaka and enjoy a relaxing evening.

## Day 10: Day Trip to Hiroshima

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima (about 1.5 hours). Visit Shukkeien Garden, a beautiful traditional Japanese garden.
• Afternoon: Explore Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park (not a religious site, but a significant historical area) and enjoy the green spaces.
• Evening: Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner before heading back to Osaka.

## Day 11: Departure from Osaka

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and maybe a final stroll in Osaka Castle Park. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure. If time allows, grab some last-minute souvenirs!

And there you have it! An 11-day adventure filled with parks, green spaces, and the vibrant culture of Japan. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! 🌸✈️