12 day itinerary
Japan
Personalized with:For first time visitor
Itinerary
Japan is a fantastic destination with a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. Here’s a fun and engaging 12-day itinerary for your first visit to Japan. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Morning: Arrive at Narita or . After clearing customs, take the Narita Express or the Airport Limousine Bus to your hotel in Tokyo.
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and freshen up. Head to to see the famous Crossing and grab a bite at a local izakaya.
- Evening: Explore and visit Takeshita Street for quirky shops and delicious crepes. Don’t forget to check out the serene nearby.
Day 2: Tokyo Sightseeing
- Morning: Start your day at . Visit the iconic and stroll through for traditional snacks and souvenirs.
- Afternoon: Head to to visit the or just enjoy the park’s beauty.
- Evening: Explore , the mecca for anime and gaming enthusiasts. Have dinner at a themed café, like a maid café or a cat café!
Day 3: Day Trip to
- All Day: Take a day trip to (about 2 hours from Tokyo). Visit the stunning , the beautiful , and enjoy the natural beauty of . Return to Tokyo in the evening.
Day 4: Tokyo to
- Morning: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to (about 2.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit the with its thousands of vermillion torii gates. It’s a great hike!
- Evening: Explore the historic . You might even spot a geisha! Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner.
Day 5: Temples and Gardens
- Morning: Visit (the Golden Pavilion) and stroll through its beautiful gardens.
- Afternoon: Head to to see the famous rock garden, then visit and its stunning temple grounds.
- Evening: Relax at a local onsen (hot spring) or enjoy a quiet evening in a tea house.
Day 6: and
- Morning: Explore . Walk through the and visit the .
- Afternoon: Take a train to (about 45 minutes). Visit and feed the friendly deer in .
- Evening: Return to and enjoy dinner at a local ramen shop.
Day 7: to
- Morning: Head to (about 15 minutes by train). Check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit and stroll through the surrounding park.
- Evening: Dive into the vibrant street food scene in . Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki!
Day 8: Day Trip to and Miyajima
- All Day: Take a day trip to (about 1.5 hours by Shinkansen). Visit the and Museum. Then, take a ferry to to see the famous floating Torii Gate at Itsukushima Shrine. Return to in the evening.
Day 9: to Hokkaido ()
- Morning: Fly or take a train to (about 1.5 hours by flight). Check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit the and . Don’t miss the for a taste of local brews!
- Evening: Enjoy a hearty meal of .
Day 10: Explore Hokkaido
- Morning: Take a day trip to (about 30 minutes by train). Explore the charming canal area and sample fresh seafood.
- Afternoon: Visit the and enjoy the picturesque views.
- Evening: Return to and relax at a local onsen.
Day 11: to Tokyo
- Morning: Fly back to Tokyo. Check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit for fresh sushi and street food. Then, explore for shopping.
- Evening: Head to or for stunning views of the city at night.
Day 12: Departure
- Morning: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Consider visiting for a futuristic experience.
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure. Don’t forget to grab some last-minute souvenirs!
Tips:
- Get a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases; locals appreciate the effort!
- Try to experience a traditional tea ceremony if you can; it’s a beautiful cultural experience.
I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your first trip to Japan! Enjoy every moment, and safe travels! 🌸✈️