14 day itinerary
Japan
Itinerary
Japan is a fantastic destination with a rich culture, delicious food, and efficient transport. Let’s dive into a 14-day itinerary that focuses on local experiences, using trains, ensuring you have internet access, and making the most of payment methods and discounted passes.
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Morning: Arrive at Narita or . Get a Pocket Wi-Fi or a SIM card for internet access.
- Afternoon: Check into your accommodation in . Explore the local area, grab lunch at a nearby ramen shop.
- Evening: Visit the for dinner and drinks. This area is filled with tiny bars and eateries that locals love.
Day 2: Tokyo - Local Culture
- Morning: Head to , a charming neighborhood that survived WWII. Stroll through the old streets and visit local shops.
- Afternoon: Visit and the . Consider getting a Pass for discounted entry to multiple museums.
- Evening: Dinner at a local izakaya in .
Day 3: Tokyo - Day Trip to Nikko
- Morning: Take the to Nikko (about 2 hours). Visit the .
- Afternoon: Explore the beautiful nature around and .
- Evening: Return to Tokyo. Grab dinner at a local sushi spot.
Day 4: Tokyo to Hakone
- Morning: Take the train to Hakone. Get the for unlimited travel in the area.
- Afternoon: Visit the and soak in an onsen (hot spring).
- Evening: Enjoy a kaiseki dinner at your ryokan (traditional inn).
Day 5: Hakone to Kyoto
- Morning: Take the to Kyoto.
- Afternoon: Visit . Walk through the iconic torii gates.
- Evening: Dinner in the Gion district. Look for a local kaiseki restaurant.
Day 6: Kyoto - Temples and Culture
- Morning: Visit and .
- Afternoon: Explore . Don’t miss the and the .
- Evening: Try yudofu (tofu hot pot) at a local restaurant.
Day 7: Kyoto - Day Trip to Nara
- Morning: Take the train to Nara (about 45 minutes). Visit and .
- Afternoon: Explore the local shops and try some kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves).
- Evening: Return to Kyoto for dinner.
Day 8: Kyoto to
- Morning: Take a short train ride to .
- Afternoon: Visit and stroll through .
- Evening: Head to for street food. Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki!
Day 9: - Local Experiences
- Morning: Visit for breakfast and local snacks.
- Afternoon: Explore and visit the .
- Evening: Enjoy a local izakaya experience.
Day 10: to
- Morning: Take the Shinkansen to .
- Afternoon: Visit the and Museum.
- Evening: Try -style okonomiyaki for dinner.
Day 11: - Day Trip to Miyajima
- Morning: Take a ferry to . Visit the famous .
- Afternoon: Hike up to for stunning views.
- Evening: Return to for dinner.
Day 12: to
- Morning: Take the Shinkansen to .
- Afternoon: Visit and the .
- Evening: Try tonkotsu ramen at a local yatai (food stall).
Day 13: - Local Culture
- Morning: Explore the and the .
- Afternoon: Visit for shopping and entertainment.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local izakaya.
Day 14: Departure
- Morning: Last-minute shopping in .
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your flight home.
Tips for Your Trip:
- Transport: Get a Japan Rail Pass if you plan to travel extensively by train. It can save you a lot on Shinkansen fares.
- Payment Methods: Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have cash (especially for smaller shops and restaurants). ATMs at convenience stores usually accept foreign cards.
- Internet Connection: Pocket Wi-Fi is the best option for staying connected on the go.
- Discounted Passes: Look for local passes for attractions, especially in cities like Kyoto and , which can save you money on transport and entry fees.
Enjoy your adventure in Japan! It’s a beautiful country with so much to offer, and you’ll have a blast exploring the local culture!
