14 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan is a fantastic destination with a rich blend of culture, history, and stunning natural beauty. With your fast-paced travel style and love for parks and green spaces, I’ve crafted an exciting 14-day itinerary that will keep you on your toes while allowing you to soak in the beauty of Japan’s landscapes. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Head to Ueno Park. Explore the park, visit the Tokyo National Museum, and enjoy the cherry blossoms if in season.
• Evening: Stroll through Ameyoko Market for some street food and shopping. Try some takoyaki or yakitori!

## Day 2: Tokyo - Shibuya & Shinjuku

• Morning: Visit Shibuya Crossing and take a photo with the Hachiko statue.
• Afternoon: Explore Yoyogi Park and the nearby Meiji Shrine. Enjoy the serene atmosphere.
• Evening: Head to [Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Shinjuku%20Gyoen%20National%20Garden&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround") for a peaceful evening stroll. Grab dinner in the vibrant Omoide Yokocho alley.

## Day 3: Tokyo - Asakusa & Odaiba

• Morning: Visit Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Don’t forget to explore Nakamise Street for snacks!
• Afternoon: Take a boat ride on the Sumida River to Odaiba. Explore the futuristic attractions and enjoy the seaside park.
• Evening: Catch the sunset at Odaiba Seaside Park and enjoy dinner with a view of the Rainbow Bridge.

## Day 4: Nikko Day Trip

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

## Day 5: Tokyo to Hakone

• Morning: Travel to Hakone (about 1.5 hours). Check into a ryokan (traditional inn).
• Afternoon: Visit Hakone Open-Air Museum and enjoy the sculptures in a beautiful outdoor setting.
• Evening: Relax in an onsen (hot spring) at your ryokan.

## Day 6: Hakone to Kyoto

• Morning: Take the Hakone Ropeway for stunning views of Mount Fuji, then head to Lake Ashi for a boat ride.
• Afternoon: Travel to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours). Check into your accommodation.
• Evening: Explore Gion District and keep an eye out for geishas. Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya.

## Day 7: Kyoto - Temples and Gardens

• Morning: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and stroll through its beautiful gardens.
• Afternoon: Head to Ryoan-ji for its famous rock garden, then visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple.
• Evening: Relax at Arashiyama Park and enjoy the view of the Togetsukyo Bridge.

## Day 8: Kyoto - Nara Day Trip

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Nara (about 1 hour). Visit Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park (where you can feed the friendly deer), and Kasuga-taisha Shrine. Return to Kyoto in the evening.

## Day 9: Kyoto to Osaka

• Morning: Travel to Osaka (about 30 minutes). Visit Osaka Castle and its surrounding park.
• Afternoon: Explore Namba Parks and Dotonbori for shopping and street food.
• Evening: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and try local specialties like okonomiyaki and kushikatsu.

## Day 10: Osaka to Hiroshima

• Morning: Travel to Hiroshima (about 1.5 hours). Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
• Afternoon: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island. Visit Itsukushima Shrine and hike up to Mount Misen for stunning views.
• Evening: Return to Hiroshima and enjoy some local okonomiyaki for dinner.

## Day 11: Hiroshima to Okayama and Kurashiki

• Morning: Travel to Okayama (about 40 minutes). Visit Okayama Korakuen Garden and Okayama Castle.
• Afternoon: Head to Kurashiki to explore the historic Bikan district and its charming canals.
• Evening: Return to Okayama for dinner and stay overnight.

## Day 12: Okayama to Himeji and Kobe

• Morning: Travel to Himeji (about 30 minutes). Visit Himeji Castle and its beautiful gardens.
• Afternoon: Continue to Kobe (about 1 hour). Explore Meriken Park and the Kobe Harborland area.
• Evening: Enjoy Kobe beef for dinner and take a stroll along the waterfront.

## Day 13: Kobe to Yokohama

• Morning: Travel back to Tokyo and then to Yokohama (about 1 hour). Visit Sankeien Garden for a peaceful morning.
• Afternoon: Explore Yokohama Chinatown and the Cup Noodles Museum.
• Evening: Head to Minato Mirai for stunning views of the skyline and enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant.

## Day 14: Departure from Tokyo

• Morning: Return to Tokyo. If time allows, visit Shinjuku Gyoen or Yoyogi Park for a final stroll.
• Afternoon: Last-minute shopping in Shibuya or Harajuku.
• Evening: Depart from Narita or Haneda Airport.

And there you have it! A whirlwind 14-day adventure through Japan, packed with parks, gardens, and vibrant city life. Make sure to check the local transport options, as Japan’s rail system is incredibly efficient. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! 🌸✈️