15 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan is a fantastic destination for families, and with 15 days, you can explore a wonderful mix of culture, nature, and modern attractions. Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary that balances sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation, perfect for your family of five!

## 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 take a photo with the Hachiko statue.
• Evening: Explore Harajuku. Stroll down Takeshita Street for quirky shops and delicious crepes. Dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese pub).

## Day 2: Tokyo - Culture and History

• Morning: Visit the Meiji Shrine, a peaceful oasis in the city.
• Afternoon: Explore Asakusa and the Senso-ji Temple. Don’t forget to try some traditional snacks from the Nakamise shopping street.
• Evening: Take a river cruise on the Sumida River for beautiful views of the city skyline.

## Day 3: Tokyo - Modern Attractions

• Morning: Head to Odaiba. Visit teamLab Borderless, an interactive digital art museum that the kids will love!
• Afternoon: Explore DiverCity Tokyo Plaza and see the giant Gundam statue.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the themed restaurants in Odaiba, like the Robot Restaurant or a ninja-themed dining experience.

## Day 4: 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 beautiful nature in Nikko National Park. Don’t miss the Kegon Falls! Return to Tokyo in the evening.

## Day 5: Tokyo to Hakone

• Morning: Travel to Hakone (about 1.5 hours). Check into a ryokan (traditional inn).
• Afternoon: Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum and enjoy the hot springs.
• Evening: Relax in the onsen (hot spring) at your ryokan and enjoy a kaiseki dinner.

## Day 6: Hakone to Kyoto

• Morning: Take the Hakone Ropeway for stunning views of Mount Fuji, then head to Lake Ashi for a pirate ship cruise.
• Afternoon: Travel to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours by train). Check into your hotel.
• Evening: Explore the Gion District and keep an eye out for geishas. Dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 7: Kyoto - Temples and Gardens

• Morning: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and stroll through its beautiful gardens.
• Afternoon: Head to Arashiyama. Walk through the Bamboo Grove and visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony experience.

## Day 8: Kyoto - More Culture

• Morning: Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of red torii gates.
• Afternoon: Explore Nijo Castle and its beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Dinner in the Pontocho Alley, known for its vibrant atmosphere.

## Day 9: Day Trip to Nara

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Nara (about 1 hour from Kyoto). Visit Todai-ji Temple and see the Great Buddha. Don’t forget to feed the friendly deer in Nara Park! Return to Kyoto in the evening.

## Day 10: Kyoto to Osaka

• Morning: Travel to Osaka (about 15 minutes by train). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Osaka Castle and its surrounding park.
• Evening: Explore Dotonbori for street food. Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki!

## Day 11: Osaka - Universal Studios Japan

• All ## Day: Spend the day at Universal Studios Japan. Enjoy thrilling rides and attractions, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

## Day 12: Osaka to Hiroshima

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

## Day 13: Day Trip to Miyajima

• All ## Day: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island. Visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and hike up to Mount Misen for breathtaking views. Return to Hiroshima in the evening.

## Day 14: Hiroshima to Tokyo

• Morning: Travel back to Tokyo (about 4 hours by train). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Akihabara for electronics and anime culture.
• Evening: Explore Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views of the city at sunset.

## Day 15: Departure

• Morning: Last-minute shopping in Shinjuku or Shibuya.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

• Consider getting a Japan Rail Pass for convenient travel between cities.
• Make sure to try local specialties in each region!
• Keep some cash handy, as not all places accept credit cards.

This itinerary offers a great mix of experiences that should keep both the kids and adults entertained. Enjoy your adventure in Japan! 🌸✈️