14 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan is a fantastic destination with a rich culture, delicious food, and amazing shopping opportunities. Here’s a fun and engaging 14-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, food experiences, and shopping. 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 Shibuya. Visit the famous Shibuya Crossing and grab a quick bite at a local ramen shop.
• Evening: Explore Harajuku. Stroll down Takeshita Street for quirky shops and try some crepes. Dinner at an izakaya (Japanese pub) in the area.

## Day 2: Tokyo - Culture and Shopping

• Morning: Visit the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Don’t forget to try some melon bread from the stalls!
• Afternoon: Head to Akihabara for some electronics and anime shopping. Grab lunch at a themed café (like a maid café).
• Evening: Explore Ginza for high-end shopping. Enjoy dinner at a sushi restaurant.

## Day 3: Tokyo - 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 natural beauty. Try yuba (tofu skin) for lunch.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and relax at your hotel or explore a local izakaya.

## Day 4: Tokyo to Kyoto

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). Enjoy a matcha tea and some wagashi (Japanese sweets) at a nearby tea house.
• Evening: Explore the Gion district. Look for geisha and enjoy a kaiseki dinner (traditional multi-course meal).

## Day 5: Kyoto - Temples and Shopping

• Morning: Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha and hike through the iconic torii gates.
• Afternoon: Head to Nishiki Market for lunch and sample local delicacies like tsukemono (pickled vegetables) and yudofu (tofu hot pot).
• Evening: Shop in the Shijo area and enjoy dinner at a local izakaya.

## Day 6: Kyoto to Osaka

• Morning: Travel to Osaka (about 15 minutes by train). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Osaka Castle and its beautiful park. Grab lunch at a nearby café.
• Evening: Head to Dotonbori for street food! Try takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). Enjoy the neon lights and vibrant atmosphere.

## Day 7: Osaka - Food and Shopping

• Morning: Visit Kuromon Ichiba Market for breakfast. Sample fresh seafood and local snacks.
• Afternoon: Explore Shinsaibashi for shopping. Don’t miss the unique shops and boutiques.
• Evening: Dinner at a local kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) restaurant.

## Day 8: Osaka to Hiroshima

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima (about 1.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Reflect on the history and significance.
• Evening: Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner.

## Day 9: Hiroshima - Day Trip to Miyajima

• All ## Day: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island. Visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and hike up to Mount Misen for stunning views. Enjoy anago (grilled eel) for lunch.
• Evening: Return to Hiroshima and relax at your hotel.

## Day 10: Hiroshima to Fukuoka

• Morning: Travel to Fukuoka (about 1 hour). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Ohori Park and the Fukuoka Castle ruins. Grab lunch at a local ramen shop.
• Evening: Explore Nakasu for yatai (street food stalls). Try tonkotsu ramen and other local delicacies.

## Day 11: Fukuoka to Nagoya

• Morning: Travel to Nagoya (about 3 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Nagoya Castle and enjoy the beautiful gardens. Try hitsumabushi (grilled eel) for lunch.
• Evening: Explore Sakae for shopping and dinner at a local izakaya.

## Day 12: Nagoya to Tokyo

• Morning: Head back to Tokyo (about 1.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Ueno Park and the Tokyo National Museum. Enjoy a bento box for lunch.
• Evening: Explore Akihabara for last-minute shopping and dinner at a themed café.

## Day 13: Tokyo - Free Day

• All ## Day: Enjoy a free day to revisit your favorite spots or explore new areas like Odaiba or Shimokitazawa. Try to squeeze in some last-minute shopping and food adventures!
• Evening: Celebrate your trip with a nice dinner at a teppanyaki restaurant.

## Day 14: Departure

• Morning: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Maybe visit a local onsen (hot spring) if time allows!
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure. Safe travels!

This itinerary gives you a taste of Japan’s vibrant cities, delicious food, and unique shopping experiences. Feel free to adjust it based on your interests and pace. Enjoy your adventure in Japan! 🍣🛍️✈️