12 day itinerary
Japan
Personalized with:I want to travel at a relaxed paceInclude hidden gemsVegetarian friendly food optionsExclude extremely touristy placesInclude cultural experiences
Itinerary
Japan is a treasure trove of culture, nature, and delicious vegetarian cuisine. Let’s craft a delightful 12-day itinerary that allows you to soak in the beauty and charm of this incredible country at a relaxed pace, while also uncovering some hidden gems. Ready? Let’s go!
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Morning: Arrive at Narita or . Take your time settling into your accommodation in a quieter neighborhood like or .
- Afternoon: Stroll through , a charming area that survived WWII bombings. Explore the quaint streets, visit the , and enjoy the local shops.
- Evening: Dinner at a vegetarian-friendly restaurant like “” in Shinjuku, known for its delicious plant-based dishes.
Day 2: Tokyo - Cultural Immersion
- Morning: Visit the , a lesser-known gem with beautiful gardens and a serene atmosphere.
- Afternoon: Participate in a traditional tea ceremony in a local tea house. This is a wonderful way to experience Japanese culture.
- Evening: Explore the local izakayas in the area, many of which offer vegetarian options. Try some sake!
Day 3: Nikko Day Trip
- Morning: Take an early train to Nikko (about 2 hours). Visit the stunning , but also explore the less-visited and the beautiful nature surrounding it.
- Afternoon: Hike to and enjoy the breathtaking views. Pack a vegetarian bento for lunch!
- Evening: Return to Tokyo and enjoy a quiet dinner at a local vegetarian-friendly ramen shop.
Day 4: Travel to
- Morning: Take the shinkansen (bullet train) to (about 2.5 hours). Check into a ryokan (traditional inn) for a unique experience.
- Afternoon: Visit the , one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens, and the .
- Evening: Dinner at “,” a vegetarian restaurant that focuses on local ingredients.
Day 5: - Art and Culture
- Morning: Explore the , a hidden gem showcasing innovative works.
- Afternoon: Visit the , where you can find traditional teahouses. Consider a workshop on gold leaf application, a local craft.
- Evening: Enjoy a kaiseki dinner at your ryokan, ensuring they can accommodate vegetarian preferences.
Day 6: Shirakawa-go and Takayama
- Morning: Take a bus to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Explore the village and enjoy the scenery.
- Afternoon: Head to Takayama (about 1 hour by bus). Visit the , a historical government building.
- Evening: Dinner at a local izakaya with vegetarian options. Try some local sake!
Day 7: Takayama - Local Markets and Culture
- Morning: Visit the morning markets (Asaichi) in Takayama, where you can sample local produce and snacks.
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll through the , known for its well-preserved Edo-period buildings. Consider a sake brewery tour.
- Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner at a local vegetarian-friendly restaurant.
Day 8: Travel to Kyoto
- Morning: Take the train to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours). Check into a cozy guesthouse in a quieter area like .
- Afternoon: Visit the Bamboo Grove and the nearby for a unique experience.
- Evening: Dinner at “,” a vegetarian-friendly restaurant in the Tenryu-ji Temple complex.
Day 9: Kyoto - Temples and Tea
- Morning: Visit the lesser-known and its beautiful gardens.
- Afternoon: Explore the , a scenic walk lined with cherry trees and small temples. Stop for a tea break at a local tea house.
- Evening: Dinner at “” in the city center, where you can enjoy a hearty bowl of vegetarian ramen.
Day 10: Nara Day Trip
- Morning: Take a train to Nara (about 1 hour). Visit the , but also explore the for its traditional buildings.
- Afternoon: Spend time in , where you can see the famous free-roaming deer. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch at a local café.
- Evening: Return to Kyoto and enjoy a quiet dinner at a local izakaya.
Day 11: Kyoto - Cultural Experiences
- Morning: Participate in a kimono-wearing experience and stroll through the .
- Afternoon: Visit the lesser-known , located in the mountains, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at “,” a vegetarian-friendly restaurant with a beautiful ambiance.
Day 12: Departure from Osaka
- Morning: Travel to Osaka (about 30 minutes by train). If time allows, visit the and its surrounding park.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a vegetarian-friendly café in the .
- Evening: Depart from , taking with you wonderful memories of Japan!
This itinerary balances cultural experiences, hidden gems, and delicious vegetarian food while allowing you to travel at a relaxed pace. Enjoy your adventure in Japan! If you have any questions or need adjustments, feel free to ask! 🌸✈️🍱