14 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan in winter is a magical experience, especially with the festive atmosphere during the holiday season. Here’s a delightful 14-day itinerary that includes Osaka and Nozawa Onsen, along with some other fantastic destinations. 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 a bite at a local izakaya.
• Evening: Explore Harajuku and visit the Meiji Shrine. Enjoy some shopping on Takeshita Street.

## Day 2: Tokyo Sightseeing

• Morning: Visit the historic Asakusa district and the Senso-ji Temple. Don’t forget to try some traditional snacks from the stalls!
• Afternoon: Head to Akihabara for some anime and tech shopping. Maybe even pop into a themed café!
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the vibrant [Shinjuku area](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=[Shinjuku](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Shinjuku&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")%20area&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround"). Consider visiting the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for stunning night views.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Nikko

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Nikko (about 2 hours from Tokyo). Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites like Toshogu Shrine and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery. Return to Tokyo in the evening.

## Day 4: Travel to Osaka

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Osaka (about 3 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Osaka Castle and stroll through the surrounding park.
• Evening: Head to Dotonbori for dinner. Try local specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki while enjoying the neon lights and lively atmosphere.

## Day 5: Osaka Exploration

• Morning: Visit the Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan) and then take a walk in the Tempozan Marketplace.
• Afternoon: Explore the Umeda Sky Building for panoramic views of the city.
• Evening: Enjoy a night out in the Namba area, perhaps catching a comedy show or visiting a themed bar.

## Day 6: Day Trip to Kyoto

• All ## Day: Take a short train ride to Kyoto (about 30 minutes). Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Return to Osaka in the evening.

## Day 7: Travel to Nozawa Onsen

• Morning: Depart Osaka and head to Nozawa Onsen (approximately 4-5 hours by train and bus). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Explore the charming village and soak in one of the many onsen (hot springs).
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at your hotel.

## Day 8: Skiing in Nozawa Onsen

• All ## Day: Hit the slopes! Nozawa Onsen is famous for its ski resort. Spend the day skiing or snowboarding. Don’t forget to take breaks and enjoy the onsen in between runs!
• Evening: Relax in the onsen and enjoy a cozy dinner in the village.

## Day 9: More Skiing and Onsen Relaxation

• All ## Day: Another day of skiing! If you’re feeling adventurous, try some snowshoeing or take a lesson if you’re a beginner.
• Evening: Enjoy a hot pot dinner and soak in the onsen to unwind.

## Day 10: Day Trip to Nagano City

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Nagano City (about 1 hour away). Visit the Zenko-ji Temple and explore the city. You can also check out the famous snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park if time allows.
• Evening: Return to Nozawa Onsen for a relaxing evening.

## Day 11: Travel to Kanazawa

• Morning: Depart Nozawa Onsen and head to Kanazawa (approximately 3 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens. Explore the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Higashi Chaya District, known for its traditional teahouses.

## Day 12: Kanazawa to Takayama

• Morning: Travel to Takayama (about 2.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Explore the old town, visit the Takayama Jinya, and check out the local craft shops.
• Evening: Try Hida beef for dinner, a local specialty.

## Day 13: Takayama to Tokyo

• Morning: Visit the morning market and then take a bus or train back to Tokyo (about 4-5 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax. Maybe do some last-minute shopping in Shinjuku or Shibuya.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant, perhaps trying sushi or ramen.

## Day 14: Departure

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for some last-minute sightseeing or shopping.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure. Safe travels!

This itinerary balances cultural experiences, relaxation, and winter sports, making for a memorable trip to Japan! Don’t forget to check the weather and book your accommodations in advance, especially during the holiday season. Enjoy your adventure!