12 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan during Christmas time is a magical experience, with beautiful illuminations, festive decorations, and a unique blend of traditional and modern culture. Here’s a fun and exciting 12-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, cultural experiences, and some holiday cheer!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Head to Asakusa to visit Senso-ji Temple. Stroll through Nakamise Street for some traditional snacks and souvenirs.
• Evening: Explore the vibrant streets of Akihabara, the hub of otaku culture. Enjoy dinner at a themed café (like a maid café) for a unique experience.

## Day 2: Tokyo - Shibuya and [Shinjuku](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=[Shinjuku](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Shinjuku&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")

• Morning: Visit the iconic [Shibuya Crossing](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=[Shibuya](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Shibuya&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")%20Crossing&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround") and take a photo with the Hachiko statue.
• Afternoon: Explore Harajuku, especially Takeshita Street for quirky shops and delicious crepes. Don’t miss the Meiji Shrine nearby.
• Evening: Head to [Shinjuku](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=[Shinjuku](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Shinjuku&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround") for the dazzling Christmas illuminations. Enjoy dinner at an izakaya (Japanese pub) and maybe catch a view from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

## Day 3: Tokyo - Day Trip to Nikko

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Nikko (about 2 hours from Tokyo). Visit the stunning Toshogu Shrine, the beautiful Kegon Falls, and enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Chuzenji. Return to Tokyo in the evening.

## Day 4: Tokyo 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, famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses. You might even spot a geisha!

## Day 5: Kyoto - Temples and Culture

• Morning: Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates.
• Afternoon: Head to Arashiyama to see the Bamboo Grove and visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner (multi-course Japanese meal) for a special treat.

## Day 6: Kyoto - Nara Day Trip

• All ## Day: Take a short train ride to Nara (about 45 minutes). Visit Todai-ji Temple, housing a giant Buddha statue, and Nara Park, where you can feed the friendly deer. Return to Kyoto in the evening.

## Day 7: Kyoto to Osaka

• Morning: Travel to Osaka (about 15 minutes by train). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Explore Osaka Castle and its beautiful park.
• Evening: Dive into the street food scene in Dotonbori. Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

## Day 8: Osaka - Universal Studios Japan

• All ## Day: Spend the day at Universal Studios Japan! Enjoy the festive decorations and themed attractions. Don’t miss the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

## Day 9: Osaka to Hiroshima

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima (about 1.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum to learn about the city’s history.
• Evening: Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner.

## Day 10: Hiroshima - Miyajima Island

• All ## Day: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island. Visit the famous Itsukushima Shrine and see the floating torii gate. Hike up to Mount Misen for stunning views. Return to Hiroshima in the evening.

## Day 11: Hiroshima to Tokyo

• Morning: Head back to Tokyo via Shinkansen (about 4 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Tokyo Tower or the Mori Art Museum for some contemporary art.
• Evening: Explore Roppongi Hills and enjoy the Christmas illuminations. Have dinner at a nice restaurant with a view.

## Day 12: Departure from Tokyo

• Morning: Last-minute shopping in [Shinjuku](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=[Shinjuku](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Shinjuku&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround") or Shibuya. Don’t forget to grab some omiyage (souvenirs) to take home!
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

• Transportation: Get a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen.
• Weather: December can be chilly, so pack warm clothes!
• Christmas Celebrations: While Christmas isn’t a traditional holiday in Japan, you’ll find beautiful illuminations and festive decorations in major cities.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable Christmas adventure in Japan! If you have any specific interests or adjustments, feel free to let me know! Safe travels! 🎄✈️