13 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan is such a fantastic destination, and with 13 days to explore, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the culture, food, and sights. Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary for your couple’s trip to Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, keeping in mind your preferences. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Take the Narita Express or Limousine Bus to your hotel in Tokyo.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and freshen up. Head to Shibuya to see the famous Shibuya Crossing and grab lunch at a local izakaya.
• Evening: Explore Harajuku. Stroll down Takeshita Street for quirky shops and delicious crepes. Have dinner at a cozy restaurant in Omotesando.

## Day 2: Tokyo Sightseeing

• Morning: Visit Asakusa and the Senso-ji Temple. Don’t forget to try some traditional snacks from the Nakamise shopping street!
• Afternoon: Head to Ueno Park. You can visit a museum or just enjoy a leisurely walk. Grab lunch at a nearby café.
• Evening: Explore Akihabara for some anime and gaming culture. Have dinner at a themed restaurant, like a maid café or a robot restaurant.

## Day 3: More Tokyo Adventures

• Morning: Visit the Meiji Shrine in Shibuya, surrounded by a beautiful forest. It’s a peaceful escape in the city.
• Afternoon: Explore Shinjuku. Check out the observation deck at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for stunning views. Have lunch in the area.
• Evening: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Shinjuku. Consider dining at an izakaya or trying some yakitori (grilled chicken skewers).

## Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Nikko (about 2 hours from Tokyo). Visit the stunning Toshogu Shrine and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery. Have lunch in Nikko and return to Tokyo in the evening.

## Day 5: Travel 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: Head to Gion, the famous geisha district. Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner (multi-course meal) and maybe catch a glimpse of a geisha.

## Day 6: Kyoto Temples and Culture

• Morning: Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha with its iconic torii gates. It’s a must-see, and you can explore at your own pace.
• Afternoon: Head to Arashiyama. Walk through the Bamboo Grove and visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park (no hiking, just a gentle walk).
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Arashiyama, perhaps trying some yudofu (tofu hot pot).

## Day 7: More Kyoto Exploration

• Morning: Visit Nijo Castle and explore its beautiful gardens.
• Afternoon: Head to Kyoto Station and visit the Kyoto Tower for panoramic views. Have lunch in the station’s food court.
• Evening: Relax at a traditional onsen (hot spring) in Kyoto. Many ryokans (traditional inns) offer onsen experiences.

## Day 8: Day Trip to Nara

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Nara (about 1 hour from Kyoto). Visit Todai-ji Temple and the friendly deer in Nara Park. Enjoy lunch in Nara before heading back to Kyoto.

## Day 9: Travel to Osaka

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Osaka (about 30 minutes). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Explore Osaka Castle and its surrounding park. Have lunch nearby.
• Evening: Head to Dotonbori for a vibrant atmosphere. Try local street food like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).

## Day 10: Osaka Fun

• Morning: Visit Universal Studios Japan for a day of fun and entertainment. Enjoy the rides and attractions.
• Evening: Have dinner in the Universal CityWalk area or return to Dotonbori for more food adventures.

## Day 11: Day Trip to Himeji

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Himeji (about 1 hour from Osaka). Visit the stunning Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the beautiful gardens and have lunch in Himeji.

## Day 12: Last Day in Osaka

• Morning: Visit the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the largest aquariums in the world.
• Afternoon: Explore the Shitenno-ji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest temples. Have lunch in the area.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant, perhaps trying some high-quality wagyu beef.

## Day 13: Departure

• Morning: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Osaka. Consider visiting Shinsaibashi for some shopping.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure. Don’t forget to grab some omiyage (souvenirs) before you leave!

And there you have it! A delightful 13-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, culture, and delicious food without any hiking. Enjoy your romantic adventure in Japan! If you have any questions or need adjustments, feel free to ask! 🌸✈️🍣