17 day itinerary
Japan
Itinerary
Japan is a beautiful country with a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and plenty of parks and green spaces to explore. Here’s a relaxed 17-day itinerary that allows you to soak in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Japan while enjoying its natural beauty. Let’s get started!
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Take your time settling into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Stroll through , home to museums, a zoo, and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Ueno area. Try some local izakaya (Japanese pub) food.
Day 2: Tokyo - Shinjuku and
- Morning: Visit for a peaceful morning walk.
- Afternoon: Explore , see the famous Crossing, and visit .
- Evening: Dinner in . Don’t miss trying some ramen!
Day 3: Tokyo - and
- Morning: Head to to visit and stroll through .
- Afternoon: Take a boat ride on the Sumida River to . Explore the parks and waterfront.
- Evening: Enjoy the view of the Rainbow Bridge at night.
Day 4: Day Trip
- All Day: Take a day trip to (about 2 hours from Tokyo). Visit and enjoy the natural beauty of . Don’t forget to check out !
Day 5: Tokyo to
- Morning: Travel to (about 1.5 hours). Check into a ryokan (traditional inn).
- Afternoon: Visit and take a stroll in .
- Evening: Relax in an onsen (hot spring) at your ryokan.
Day 6: to Kyoto
- Morning: Take the scenic Ropeway and enjoy views of Mount Fuji.
- Afternoon: Travel to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours). Check into your accommodation.
- Evening: Explore the and enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner.
Day 7: Kyoto - Arashiyama
- Morning: Visit the and stroll through .
- Afternoon: Take a boat ride on the Hozu River or visit the .
- Evening: Dinner in Arashiyama, perhaps try some yudofu (tofu hot pot).
Day 8: Kyoto - Temples and Gardens
- Morning: Visit and its beautiful gardens.
- Afternoon: Head to for its famous rock garden, then visit .
- Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening in the area.
Day 9: Kyoto to Nara
- All Day: Take a day trip to Nara (about 1 hour). Visit to see the free-roaming deer and explore .
- Evening: Return to Kyoto for dinner.
Day 10: Kyoto to Hiroshima
- Morning: Travel to Hiroshima (about 2 hours). Check into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Visit the and Museum.
- Evening: Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner.
Day 11:
- All Day: Take a ferry to . Visit and hike up to for stunning views.
- Evening: Return to Hiroshima for a relaxing evening.
Day 12: Hiroshima to Okayama
- Morning: Travel to Okayama (about 1 hour). Visit , one of Japan's top three gardens.
- Afternoon: Explore and the surrounding park.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in Okayama.
Day 13: Okayama to Kurashiki
- Morning: Take a short trip to Kurashiki (about 30 minutes). Explore the .
- Afternoon: Visit the and stroll along the canal.
- Evening: Return to Okayama for the night.
Day 14: Okayama to Osaka
- Morning: Travel to Osaka (about 1 hour). Check into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Visit and the .
- Evening: Explore for street food and vibrant nightlife.
Day 15: Osaka - Day Trip to Himeji
- All Day: Take a day trip to Himeji (about 1 hour). Visit and the beautiful .
- Evening: Return to Osaka for dinner.
Day 16: Osaka to Tokyo
- Morning: Travel back to Tokyo (about 3 hours). Check into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Visit for a final stroll in a beautiful park.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Tokyo, perhaps in the vibrant Shinjuku area.
Day 17: Departure
- Morning: Last-minute shopping or a visit to a nearby park.
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.
This itinerary balances city exploration with plenty of time in parks and green spaces, allowing you to enjoy Japan at a relaxed pace. Feel free to adjust any days based on your interests or travel style. Enjoy your adventure in Japan! 🌸✈️
