14 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan is a treasure trove of culture, history, and stunning landscapes, and there’s so much to explore beyond the big cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. Here’s a delightful 14-day itinerary that allows you to travel at a relaxed pace, soaking in the beauty and charm of Japan. Let’s get started!

## Day 1: Arrival in Osaka

• Morning: Arrive at Kansai International Airport. Take the train to your hotel in Osaka.
• Afternoon: Explore Dotonbori, famous for its neon lights and street food. Try takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).
• Evening: Stroll along the river and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the Glico Man sign!

## Day 2: Osaka to Nara

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Nara (about 45 minutes). Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to a giant Buddha statue.
• Afternoon: Explore Nara Park, where you can feed the friendly deer. Visit Kasuga-taisha Shrine with its beautiful lanterns.
• Evening: Return to Osaka and enjoy dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese pub).

## Day 3: Osaka to Himeji

• Morning: Head to Himeji (about 1 hour by train). Visit Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan’s most beautiful castles.
• Afternoon: Explore the Kokoen Garden nearby, a lovely Japanese garden.
• Evening: Return to Osaka for a relaxing evening.

## Day 4: Osaka to Okayama

• Morning: Travel to Okayama (about 1 hour by train). Visit Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s top three gardens.
• Afternoon: Explore Okayama Castle, known as the "Crow Castle" for its black exterior.
• Evening: Enjoy a local specialty, Okayama’s barazushi (scattered sushi).

## Day 5: Okayama to Kurashiki

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Kurashiki (about 15 minutes). Stroll through the historic Bikan district with its charming canals and traditional buildings.
• Afternoon: Visit the Ohara Museum of Art, Japan’s first museum of Western art.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner in Kurashiki, perhaps trying some local sake.

## Day 6: Kurashiki to Takamatsu

• Morning: Travel to Takamatsu (about 1.5 hours by train). Visit Ritsurin Garden, a stunning landscape garden.
• Afternoon: Explore the Takamatsu Castle ruins and enjoy views of the Seto Inland Sea.
• Evening: Try Sanuki udon, a local specialty, for dinner.

## Day 7: Takamatsu to Naoshima

• Morning: Take a ferry to Naoshima, an island known for its contemporary art (about 1 hour). Visit the Benesse House Museum.
• Afternoon: Explore the Chichu Art Museum and the outdoor art installations.
• Evening: Stay overnight on Naoshima and enjoy a peaceful evening by the sea.

## Day 8: Naoshima to Matsuyama

• Morning: Ferry back to Takamatsu and then take a train to Matsuyama (about 2 hours). Visit Matsuyama Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city.
• Afternoon: Relax at Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs.
• Evening: Enjoy a local meal, perhaps trying some fresh seafood.

## Day 9: Matsuyama to Kochi

• Morning: Travel to Kochi (about 2 hours by train). Visit Kochi Castle, one of the few original castles in Japan.
• Afternoon: Explore the Hirome Market for lunch and try local specialties like katsuo no tataki (seared bonito).
• Evening: Stroll along the Katsurahama Beach and enjoy the sunset.

## Day 10: Kochi to Takamatsu

• Morning: Head back to Takamatsu (about 2 hours by train). Take a leisurely day to revisit any favorite spots or relax.
• Afternoon: Visit the local shops and cafes.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner and prepare for the next leg of your journey.

## Day 11: Takamatsu to Kanazawa

• Morning: Travel to Kanazawa (about 4 hours by train). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most famous gardens.
• Evening: Explore the Higashi Chaya District, known for its traditional teahouses.

## Day 12: Kanazawa to Shirakawa-go

• Morning: Take a bus to Shirakawa-go (about 1.5 hours). Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site known for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
• Afternoon: Visit the Wada House and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.
• Evening: Return to Kanazawa for dinner.

## Day 13: Kanazawa to Takayama

• Morning: Travel to Takayama (about 2.5 hours by train). Visit the Takayama Jinya, a historical government building.
• Afternoon: Explore the Sanmachi Suji district with its well-preserved Edo-period buildings.
• Evening: Try Hida beef for dinner, a local delicacy.

## Day 14: Takayama to Nagoya

• Morning: Head to Nagoya (about 2.5 hours by train). Visit Nagoya Castle and its beautiful gardens.
• Afternoon: Explore the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology.
• Evening: Enjoy your last dinner in Japan, perhaps trying hitsumabushi (grilled eel) before preparing for your departure.

Departure

• Depending on your flight schedule, you can either head to Chubu Centrair International Airport from Nagoya or return to Osaka for your flight home.

This itinerary allows you to experience a mix of urban and rural Japan, with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the local culture. Don’t forget to savor the delicious food, take lots of photos, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this incredible country! Safe travels! 🌸🚄