12 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan is a fantastic destination, and with 12 days, you can experience a delightful mix of culture, cuisine, and relaxation. Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary that includes onsen visits, delicious food, omakase dining, and a geisha dinner. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Explore the vibrant district of Shibuya. Don’t miss the famous Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue.
• Evening: Enjoy your first taste of Japanese cuisine at an izakaya (Japanese pub) in Shinjuku. Try some yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and sake!

## Day 2: Tokyo - Tsukiji & Omakase

• Morning: Head to Tsukiji Outer Market for a breakfast of fresh sushi. Sample various seafood delights!
• Afternoon: Visit the historic Asakusa district and Senso-ji Temple. Stroll through Nakamise Street for snacks and souvenirs.
• Evening: Treat yourself to an omakase dinner at a top sushi restaurant in Tokyo. Let the chef surprise you with seasonal specialties!

## Day 3: Tokyo - Geisha Experience

• Morning: Visit the Meiji Shrine and take a peaceful walk through the surrounding forest.
• Afternoon: Explore Harajuku and the quirky shops on Takeshita Street. Grab a crepe for a sweet treat!
• Evening: Experience a traditional geisha dinner in the Asakusa area. Enjoy a multi-course kaiseki meal while watching a geisha performance.

## Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko

• Morning: Take a 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.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and relax at your hotel or explore a local izakaya for dinner.

## Day 5: Travel to Hakone (Onsen Time!)

• Morning: Head to Hakone (about 1.5 hours from Tokyo). Check into a ryokan (traditional inn) with an onsen.
• Afternoon: Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum and take a scenic ride on the Hakone Ropeway for views of Mount Fuji.
• Evening: Enjoy a kaiseki dinner at your ryokan, followed by a soak in the onsen. Pure bliss!

## Day 6: Hakone to Kyoto

• Morning: Relax in the onsen one last time before checking out. Take the Romancecar train to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Arrive in Kyoto and check into your hotel. Visit the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion).
• Evening: Explore the Gion district, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a geisha. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 7: Kyoto - Temples and Food

• Morning: Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. Hike up the mountain for stunning views.
• Afternoon: Head to Arashiyama. Walk through the Bamboo Grove and visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
• Evening: Try yudofu (tofu hot pot) for dinner in the Arashiyama area.

## Day 8: Kyoto - Omakase and Culture

• Morning: Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple and enjoy the panoramic views of Kyoto.
• Afternoon: Explore the charming streets of Higashiyama, filled with traditional shops and tea houses.
• Evening: Indulge in another omakase experience at a local sushi restaurant. Savor the artistry of Japanese cuisine!

## Day 9: Day Trip to Nara

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Nara (about 1 hour). Visit Todai-ji Temple and see the Great Buddha.
• Afternoon: Stroll through Nara Park and feed the friendly deer. Visit Kasuga-taisha Shrine.
• Evening: Return to Kyoto and enjoy a casual dinner at a ramen shop.

## Day 10: Kyoto to Osaka

• Morning: Travel to Osaka (about 30 minutes). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Explore Osaka Castle and its beautiful park.
• Evening: Dive into the street food scene in Dotonbori. Try takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).

## Day 11: Osaka - Food and Fun

• Morning: Visit Kuromon Ichiba Market for breakfast. Sample fresh seafood and local delicacies.
• Afternoon: Spend some time at Universal Studios Japan or explore the Osaka Aquarium.
• Evening: Enjoy a final omakase dinner at a highly-rated restaurant in Osaka. Celebrate your culinary journey!

## Day 12: Departure

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for some last-minute shopping in Osaka or Tokyo.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure. Reflect on the amazing experiences you’ve had in Japan!

And there you have it! A delightful 12-day itinerary filled with onsen relaxation, exquisite food, and cultural experiences. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! Safe travels! 🌸✈️🍣