Japan

Absolutely, I'd be happy to help you plan your 17-day adventure in Japan! Since you want to explore southern Japan and end with two days in Tokyo, we can create an exciting itinerary that covers a mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and delicious food.

Day 1-3: Osaka

• Day 1: Arrive in Osaka, check into your accommodation, and explore the vibrant Dotonbori district. Try some delicious street food and visit the iconic Glico Running Man sign.
• Day 2: Visit Osaka Castle, take a stroll in the beautiful Osaka Castle Park, and explore the bustling Kuromon Ichiba Market for some fresh seafood.
• Day 3: Take a day trip to Nara to see the friendly deer at Nara Park and visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha.

Day 4-6: Kyoto

• Day 4: Travel to Kyoto, visit Fushimi Inari Shrine with its famous torii gates, and explore the historic Gion district.
• Day 5: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony in a machiya (traditional wooden townhouse).
• Day 6: Explore the beautiful Higashiyama district, visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and wander through the charming streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka.

Day 7-9: Hiroshima and Miyajima

• Day 7: Travel to Hiroshima, visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum to learn about the city's history. Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner.
• Day 8: Take a day trip to Miyajima Island, visit the iconic floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine, and hike Mount Misen for panoramic views.
• Day 9: Explore Hiroshima's local markets, such as Hondori Shopping Arcade, and try some local delicacies like Hiroshima-style oysters.

Day 10-12: Kyushu

• Day 10: Travel to Kyushu and visit the historic city of Nagasaki. Explore the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum.
• Day 11: Visit the hot spring town of Beppu and relax in an onsen. Explore the unique "hells" (hot springs) in Beppu.
• Day 12: Explore the volcanic landscape of Aso and visit Aso Shrine. If conditions allow, take a cable car to the top of Mount Aso for breathtaking views.

Day 13-15: Okinawa

• Day 13: Fly to Okinawa and relax on the beautiful beaches. Visit Shurijo Castle and explore the vibrant markets of Naha.
• Day 14: Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters of the Kerama Islands. Enjoy some delicious Okinawan cuisine, such as goya champuru and soki soba.
• Day 15: Explore the historical sites of Okinawa, such as the Peace Memorial Park and Himeyuri Monument. Relax on the beach and soak in the island vibes.

Day 16-17: Tokyo

• Day 16: Fly back to Tokyo and spend the day exploring the diverse neighborhoods of the city. Visit Asakusa for Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street.
• Day 17: Explore the trendy district of Shibuya, visit Meiji Shrine, and enjoy some last-minute shopping in Harajuku before heading home.

This itinerary allows you to experience the best of southern Japan, from the bustling cities of Osaka and Kyoto to the tranquil beauty of Miyajima and the tropical paradise of Okinawa, all while ending your journey with two days in the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo. Enjoy your adventure!