14 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan is a fantastic destination for families, and I’m excited to help you craft a 14-day itinerary that balances local experiences, delicious food, and a sprinkle of culture without overwhelming you with temples. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Check into a family-friendly hotel in Shinjuku or Shibuya.
• Afternoon: Stroll through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden for a relaxing start.
• Evening: Head to Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) for some local yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and other izakaya-style dishes.

## Day 2: Tokyo - Local Culture

• Morning: Visit the Yanaka district, known for its old-town charm. Explore the narrow streets and local shops.
• Lunch: Try some traditional soba noodles at a local eatery.
• Afternoon: Visit Ueno Park and check out the local street food stalls.
• Evening: Dinner in Ameyoko Market, where you can sample various street foods like takoyaki (octopus balls) and grilled seafood.

## Day 3: Tokyo - Family Fun

• Morning: Spend the day at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea (both are fantastic for families!).
• Lunch: Enjoy a themed meal in the park.
• Evening: Return to your hotel and have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Shibuya, like a conveyor belt sushi place.

## Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko

• Morning: Take an early train to Nikko (about 2 hours). Explore the beautiful nature and local food.
• Lunch: Try yuba (tofu skin) at a local restaurant.
• Afternoon: Visit the scenic Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and have dinner at a local izakaya.

## Day 5: Tokyo to Hakone

• Morning: Travel to Hakone (about 1.5 hours). Check into a family-friendly ryokan (traditional inn).
• Lunch: Enjoy a kaiseki lunch at the ryokan.
• Afternoon: Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, which is fun for all ages.
• Evening: Relax in the onsen (hot springs) and have dinner at the ryokan.

## Day 6: Hakone to Kyoto

• Morning: Take the scenic train to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours).
• Lunch: Try Kyoto-style sushi or yudofu (tofu hot pot) at a local restaurant.
• Afternoon: Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the nearby Iwatayama Monkey Park.
• Evening: Dinner at a local izakaya in the Arashiyama area.

## Day 7: Kyoto - Local Experiences

• Morning: Visit the Nishiki Market for breakfast and sample local delicacies.
• Lunch: Try some matcha-flavored treats at a local café.
• Afternoon: Explore the Gion district, where you might catch a glimpse of a geisha.
• Evening: Dinner at a local ramen shop.

## Day 8: Kyoto to Osaka

• Morning: Travel to Osaka (about 30 minutes). Check into a family hotel.
• Lunch: Try Osaka’s famous okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) at a local restaurant.
• Afternoon: Visit the Osaka Aquarium, one of the largest in the world.
• Evening: Explore Dotonbori for street food like takoyaki and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).

## Day 9: Osaka - Day Trip to Nara

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Nara (about 45 minutes). Visit Nara Park and feed the friendly deer.
• Lunch: Try kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves) at a local eatery.
• Afternoon: Explore the local shops and enjoy some matcha ice cream.
• Evening: Return to Osaka for dinner at a local izakaya.

## Day 10: Osaka to Hiroshima

• Morning: Travel to Hiroshima (about 1.5 hours). Check into a family hotel.
• Lunch: Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at a local restaurant.
• Afternoon: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
• Evening: Dinner at a local izakaya, sampling local seafood.

## Day 11: Day Trip to Miyajima

• Morning: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island. Visit the famous floating torii gate.
• Lunch: Try anago (grilled eel) at a local restaurant.
• Afternoon: Explore the island, hike to Mount Misen if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Evening: Return to Hiroshima for dinner.

## Day 12: Hiroshima to Fukuoka

• Morning: Travel to Fukuoka (about 1 hour). Check into a family hotel.
• Lunch: Try Hakata ramen at a local shop.
• Afternoon: Visit Ohori Park for a leisurely stroll and some family time.
• Evening: Explore Nakasu for street food and local delicacies.

## Day 13: Fukuoka - Local Culture

• Morning: Visit the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum and explore the local art scene.
• Lunch: Try mentaiko (spicy cod roe) at a local eatery.
• Afternoon: Visit the Momochi Seaside Park for some beach time.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local izakaya, reminiscing about your trip.

## Day 14: Departure

• Morning: Last-minute shopping in Tenjin or Hakata.
• Lunch: Enjoy a final meal of your favorite Japanese dish.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

This itinerary balances family-friendly activities, local food experiences, and a touch of culture without overwhelming you with temples. Enjoy your adventure in Japan! If you have any specific preferences or adjustments, feel free to let me know!