14 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan is a fantastic destination with a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. With your interests in mind, here’s a delightful 14-day itinerary that balances relaxation, adventure, and culinary experiences. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Explore the vibrant district of Shibuya. Don’t miss the famous Shibuya Crossing!
• Evening: Dinner at Sushi Saito (reservation needed) for an exquisite sushi experience.

## Day 2: Tokyo - Cherry Blossoms & Tea

• Morning: Visit Ueno Park for cherry blossoms (if in season, usually late March to early April).
• Afternoon: Head to Asakusa and visit Senso-ji Temple. Enjoy a traditional Japanese tea experience at a tea house nearby.
• Evening: Dinner at Sushi Yoshitake for another top-notch sushi experience.

## Day 3: Tokyo - Outdoor Adventure

• Morning: Take a day trip to Mount Takao for a scenic hike. The views from the top are breathtaking!
• Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant on the mountain.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and have dinner at Sushi Dai in Tsukiji for fresh sushi.

## Day 4: Tokyo to Hakone - Spa Day

• Morning: Travel to Hakone (about 1.5 hours from Tokyo). Check into a ryokan (traditional inn) with an onsen (hot spring).
• Afternoon: Relax in the onsen and enjoy the beautiful views of Mount Fuji.
• Evening: Dinner at the ryokan, often featuring kaiseki (multi-course meal).

## Day 5: Hakone - Outdoor Exploration

• Morning: Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum and take a stroll through the beautiful gardens.
• Afternoon: Take a boat ride on Lake Ashi and enjoy the views of Mount Fuji.
• Evening: Dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese pub) for a casual dining experience.

## Day 6: Hakone to Kyoto

• Morning: Travel to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple and explore the charming streets of Higashiyama.
• Evening: Dinner at Sushi Iwa for a delightful sushi experience.

## Day 7: Kyoto - Cherry Blossoms & Tea

• Morning: Visit Maruyama Park for cherry blossoms and enjoy a picnic.
• Afternoon: Participate in a traditional tea ceremony in a tea house.
• Evening: Dinner at Sushi Matsumoto for another sushi treat.

## Day 8: Kyoto - Outdoor Adventure

• Morning: Hike the Fushimi Inari Shrine trails, famous for its thousands of torii gates.
• Afternoon: Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and take a walk along the river.
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant, trying some Kyoto-style sushi.

## Day 9: Kyoto to Nara - Day Trip

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Nara (about 1 hour). Visit Nara Park and see the free-roaming deer.
• Afternoon: Explore Todai-ji Temple and its Great Buddha.
• Evening: Return to Kyoto and have dinner at a local izakaya.

## Day 10: Kyoto to Osaka - Food Adventure

• Morning: Travel to Osaka (about 30 minutes). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Explore Dotonbori, famous for street food. Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
• Evening: Dinner at Mizuno for some of the best okonomiyaki in town.

## Day 11: Osaka - Spa Day

• Morning: Visit Spa World, a large onsen complex with various themed baths.
• Afternoon: Relax and enjoy the spa facilities.
• Evening: Dinner at Sushi Katsu for a unique sushi experience.

## Day 12: Osaka to Hiroshima

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

## Day 13: Hiroshima - Day Trip to Miyajima

• Morning: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island. Visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine.
• Afternoon: Hike up Mount Misen for stunning views.
• Evening: Return to Hiroshima and enjoy a farewell dinner at a local sushi restaurant.

## Day 14: Departure from Osaka

• Morning: Travel back to Osaka (about 1.5 hours). Last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

• Cherry Blossoms: The best time to see cherry blossoms is usually late March to early April. Check local forecasts for peak bloom times.
• Reservations: Make reservations for sushi restaurants well in advance, as they can be quite popular.
• Transport: Consider getting a Japan Rail Pass for convenient travel between cities.

I hope this itinerary excites you! Japan is a beautiful country with so much to offer, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. Safe travels! 🌸🍣🏞️