15 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan is a fantastic blend of tradition and technology, and with 15 days, you can really dive deep into its culture, history, and modern marvels. Let’s create an itinerary that balances your interests in itinerant experiences, traditional sites, tech wonders, and, of course, the magical world of Studio Ghibli!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Head to Asakusa to visit Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple. Stroll through Nakamise Street for traditional snacks and souvenirs.
• Evening: Explore the vibrant streets of Akihabara, the tech hub of Tokyo. Check out the latest gadgets and maybe visit a themed café.

## Day 2: Tokyo - Tradition Meets Modernity

• Morning: Visit the Meiji Shrine, a serene spot surrounded by a beautiful forest.
• Afternoon: Explore Harajuku for its unique fashion and youth culture. Don’t miss Takeshita Street!
• Evening: Head to Shibuya to see the famous Shibuya Crossing and enjoy dinner at a local izakaya.

## Day 3: Tokyo - Ghibli Day

• Morning: Visit the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka (make sure to book tickets in advance!). Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli.
• Afternoon: Explore Inokashira Park nearby, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride.
• Evening: Return to Shinjuku and visit the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for stunning night views.

## Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Nikko (about 2 hours from Tokyo). Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Toshogu Shrine and the beautiful natural scenery of Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls.

## Day 5: Tokyo to Kyoto

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and stroll through its beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Explore the Gion district, famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture. Enjoy a kaiseki dinner.

## Day 6: Kyoto - Temples and Tradition

• Morning: Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates.
• Afternoon: Head to Arashiyama to see the Bamboo Grove and visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
• Evening: Relax by the Katsura River and enjoy the sunset.

## Day 7: Kyoto - More Culture

• Morning: Explore the historic district of Higashiyama, visiting Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
• Afternoon: Visit the Kyoto National Museum or the Ryoan-ji rock garden.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony experience.

## Day 8: Kyoto to Osaka

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Osaka (about 15 minutes).
• Afternoon: Visit Osaka Castle and its surrounding park.
• Evening: Dive into Dotonbori for street food delights like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the Glico Man sign!

## Day 9: Osaka - Tech and Fun

• Morning: Visit the Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan) and explore the surrounding Tempozan Marketplace.
• Afternoon: Head to Universal Studios Japan for a day of fun and adventure, especially if you’re a fan of Ghibli or anime-themed attractions.
• Evening: Enjoy the nightlife in Namba.

## Day 10: Day Trip to Nara

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Nara (about 45 minutes from Osaka). Visit Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park (with its friendly deer), and Kasuga-taisha Shrine.

## Day 11: Osaka to Hiroshima

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima (about 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum to learn about the city’s history.
• Evening: Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner.

## Day 12: 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.

## Day 13: Hiroshima to Fukuoka

• Morning: Travel to Fukuoka (about 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Explore Ohori Park and visit the Fukuoka Castle ruins.
• Evening: Enjoy Fukuoka’s famous tonkotsu ramen at a yatai (street food stall).

## Day 14: Fukuoka to Tokyo

• Morning: Fly or take the Shinkansen back to Tokyo.
• Afternoon: Visit Odaiba, a futuristic area with shopping, entertainment, and the teamLab Borderless digital art museum.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Tokyo, perhaps at a themed restaurant.

## Day 15: Departure

• Morning: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Consider visiting the Tsukiji Outer Market for some fresh sushi.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

And there you have it! A delightful mix of tradition, technology, and the whimsical world of Ghibli, all wrapped up in a 15-day adventure through Japan. Enjoy your trip! 🌸✈️