15 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan is a fantastic destination, especially for couples, with its blend of modernity and tradition, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a 15-day itinerary that highlights the best of Tokyo, Kyoto, and some other must-visit places. Let’s dive in!

## 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 grab lunch at a local café.
• Evening: Explore Harajuku. Stroll down Takeshita Street, and enjoy some crepes. Dinner at an izakaya (Japanese pub) in the area.

## Day 2: Tokyo - Modern Marvels

• Morning: Visit the Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views of the city.
• Afternoon: Explore Asakusa and the historic Senso-ji Temple. Don’t forget to try some traditional snacks from the stalls.
• Evening: Dinner in Akihabara. Explore the vibrant otaku culture and maybe visit a themed café.

## Day 3: Tokyo - Cultural Immersion

• Morning: Visit the Meiji Shrine in Shibuya, surrounded by a beautiful forest.
• Afternoon: Head to Ueno Park. Visit the Tokyo National Museum or the Ueno Zoo.
• Evening: Dinner in Ameyoko Market. Try some street food and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

## Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Nikko (about 2 hours from Tokyo). Visit the stunning Toshogu Shrine, Kegon Falls, and enjoy the beautiful nature. 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 take a dip in an onsen (hot spring).
• Evening: Enjoy a kaiseki dinner at your ryokan.

## Day 6: Hakone to Kyoto

• Morning: Take the Hakone Ropeway for views of Mount Fuji, then head to Lake Ashi for a boat ride.
• Afternoon: Travel to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours by Shinkansen). Check into your hotel.
• Evening: Stroll through the Gion District and maybe catch a glimpse of a geisha. 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 Ryoan-ji for its famous rock garden, then visit Ninna-ji.
• Evening: Dinner in Pontocho Alley, known for its narrow lanes and traditional dining.

## Day 8: Kyoto - Arashiyama

• Morning: Explore Arashiyama. Walk through the Bamboo Grove and visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
• Afternoon: Visit Tenryu-ji Temple and take a boat ride on the Hozu River.
• Evening: Relax with a traditional tea ceremony.

## Day 9: Day Trip to Nara

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Nara (about 1 hour from Kyoto). Visit Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park (with its friendly deer), and Kasuga-taisha Shrine. Return to Kyoto in the evening.

## Day 10: Kyoto to Osaka

• Morning: Travel to Osaka (about 15 minutes). 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

• All ## Day: Spend the day at Universal Studios Japan. Enjoy the rides and attractions, especially the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
• Evening: Dinner in Namba and enjoy the nightlife.

## 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: Day Trip to Miyajima

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

## Day 14: Hiroshima to Tokyo

• Morning: Travel back to Tokyo (about 4 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Last-minute shopping in Shinjuku or Shibuya.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant with a view, perhaps in Tokyo Tower or Roppongi Hills.

## Day 15: Departure

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

Tips:

• Transportation: Get a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited travel on JR trains, which is a great way to save money.
• Accommodations: Consider staying in a mix of hotels and ryokans for a unique experience.
• Dining: Don’t hesitate to try local specialties in each region!

This itinerary balances cultural experiences, modern attractions, and beautiful nature, making it perfect for a couple looking to explore the best of Japan. Enjoy your trip! 🌸✈️