12 day itinerary
Japan
Itinerary
Japan is a fantastic country with a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. With 12 days to explore, you can cover a lot of ground! Here’s a fast-paced itinerary that will let you experience the highlights of Japan while keeping you on the move. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in
- Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Get your JR Pass (if you plan to travel by train) and head to your hotel.
- Afternoon: Explore . Check out the famous Crossing and grab lunch at a local izakaya.
- Evening: Head to . Visit the observation deck of the Metropolitan Government Building for stunning views of the city. Dinner in Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) for some yakitori!
Day 2:
- Morning: Visit and the . Don’t forget to try some melon bread from the stalls!
- Afternoon: Head to for some otaku culture. Explore the shops and maybe visit a themed café.
- Evening: Stroll through for high-end shopping and enjoy dinner at a sushi restaurant.
Day 3: to
- Morning: Take an early train to (about 2 hours). Visit the stunning .
- Afternoon: Explore the beautiful . Don’t miss !
- Evening: Return to and enjoy a relaxing evening in . Check out the Mori Art Museum or Tower.
Day 4: to
- Morning: Head to (about 1.5 hours). Take the Ropeway for breathtaking views of .
- Afternoon: Visit the and soak in an onsen (hot spring).
- Evening: Stay overnight in . Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at your ryokan.
Day 5: to
- Morning: Depart for (about 2.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and stroll through its beautiful gardens.
- Evening: Explore the district. Look out for geisha and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 6:
- Morning: Visit and hike through the iconic torii gates.
- Afternoon: Head to . Walk through the bamboo grove and visit the .
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony experience.
Day 7: to and
- Morning: Take a short train ride to (about 1 hour). Visit and feed the friendly deer in .
- Afternoon: Head to (about 45 minutes). Explore for street food (try takoyaki and okonomiyaki!).
- Evening: Visit and enjoy the night view.
Day 8: to
- Morning: Depart for (about 1.5 hours). Visit the and Museum.
- Afternoon: Take a ferry to to see the famous floating torii gate.
- Evening: Return to for dinner. Try the local specialty, -style okonomiyaki.
Day 9: to Okayama and
- Morning: Head to Okayama (about 40 minutes). Visit and .
- Afternoon: Take a short trip to . Explore the historic with its charming canals and traditional buildings.
- Evening: Return to Okayama for dinner and stay overnight.
Day 10: Okayama to and
- Morning: Depart for (about 30 minutes). Visit the stunning .
- Afternoon: Head to (about 1 hour). Explore the harbor area and visit the .
- Evening: Enjoy beef for dinner!
Day 11: to
- Morning: Return to . Visit or explore the .
- Afternoon: Shop in and .
- Evening: Enjoy your last night in with a food tour or a night out in the city.
Day 12: Departure from
- Morning: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Visit if time allows.
- Afternoon: Head to for your departure.
And there you have it! A whirlwind tour of Japan that packs in culture, history, and delicious food. Make sure to keep your camera handy and enjoy every moment! Safe travels! 🌏✈️
