Itinerary

Japan is a treasure trove of culture, art, and gastronomy, and 20 days will give you a wonderful opportunity to explore its many facets. Here’s a lively itinerary that balances traditional and contemporary art, Shintoism, folk culture, and delicious food experiences. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Stroll through Asakusa and visit Senso-ji Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo. Explore Nakamise Street for traditional snacks.
• Evening: Dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese pub) to kick off your culinary journey.

## Day 2: Tokyo - Traditional Art

• Morning: Visit the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park to see traditional Japanese art.
• Afternoon: Explore Yanaka, a district that survived WWII, showcasing traditional houses and art galleries.
• Evening: Try a kaiseki dinner (traditional multi-course meal) in a local restaurant.

## Day 3: Tokyo - Shintoism and Folk Culture

• Morning: Visit Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
• Afternoon: Explore the nearby Yoyogi Park and take part in a Shinto purification ritual.
• Evening: Enjoy a dinner of yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) in the bustling streets of Shinjuku.

## Day 4: Tokyo - Contemporary Art

• Morning: Head to the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi for contemporary art exhibitions.
• Afternoon: Visit the National Art Center, Tokyo, which has rotating exhibitions.
• Evening: Dinner at a trendy restaurant in Roppongi, perhaps trying fusion cuisine.

## Day 5: Nikko Day Trip

• Morning: Take a train to Nikko (2 hours). Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Toshogu Shrine.
• Afternoon: Explore the beautiful natural scenery and waterfalls in the area.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and enjoy a casual dinner at a ramen shop.

## Day 6: Tokyo to Kanazawa

• Morning: Take the shinkansen (bullet train) to Kanazawa (2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Try Kanazawa’s famous seafood at Omicho Market.

## Day 7: Kanazawa - Traditional Art and Culture

• Morning: Explore the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
• Afternoon: Visit the Nagamachi Samurai District and the Higashi Chaya District for traditional tea houses.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional dinner featuring local Kaga cuisine.

## Day 8: Takayama Day Trip

• Morning: Take a bus to Takayama (2 hours). Visit the morning market.
• Afternoon: Explore the Takayama Jinya and the old town with its preserved Edo-period buildings.
• Evening: Return to Kanazawa for dinner.

## Day 9: Kanazawa to Kyoto

• Morning: Travel to Kyoto (2 hours by train).
• Afternoon: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Ryoan-ji (rock garden).
• Evening: Dinner at a traditional kaiseki restaurant.

## Day 10: Kyoto - Shintoism and Folk Culture

• Morning: Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of torii gates.
• Afternoon: Explore the Gion district, known for its geisha culture.
• Evening: Attend a traditional tea ceremony.

## Day 11: Kyoto - Traditional and Contemporary Art

• Morning: Visit the Kyoto National Museum.
• Afternoon: Explore the Kyoto Art Center for contemporary exhibitions.
• Evening: Dinner at a local soba restaurant.

## Day 12: Nara Day Trip

• Morning: Take a train to Nara (1 hour). Visit Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park with its free-roaming deer.
• Afternoon: Explore Kasuga-taisha Shrine.
• Evening: Return to Kyoto for dinner.

## Day 13: Kyoto to Hiroshima

• Morning: Travel to Hiroshima (2 hours by train).
• Afternoon: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
• Evening: Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner.

## Day 14: Miyajima Island

• Morning: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island. Visit Itsukushima Shrine.
• Afternoon: Hike up Mount Misen for stunning views.
• Evening: Return to Hiroshima for dinner.

## Day 15: Hiroshima to Naoshima

• Morning: Travel to Naoshima (3 hours, including ferry).
• Afternoon: Visit the Benesse House Museum and the Chichu Art Museum.
• Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 16: Naoshima - Contemporary Art

• Morning: Explore the Art House Project and other installations around the island.
• Afternoon: Relax on the beach or visit the Ando Museum.
• Evening: Dinner at a local eatery.

## Day 17: Naoshima to Osaka

• Morning: Travel to Osaka (2 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit the Osaka Museum of History and the National Museum of Art.
• Evening: Explore Dotonbori for street food, including takoyaki and kushikatsu.

## Day 18: Osaka - Gastronomy and Culture

• Morning: Take a cooking class to learn how to make sushi or okonomiyaki.
• Afternoon: Visit Osaka Castle and its surrounding park.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a high-rise restaurant with a view of the city.

## Day 19: Osaka to Tokyo

• Morning: Travel back to Tokyo (3 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit the teamLab Borderless digital art museum in Odaiba.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a sushi restaurant.

## Day 20: Departure

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

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This itinerary is packed with experiences that will immerse you in Japan's rich culture, art, and gastronomy. Each day offers a blend of traditional and contemporary elements, ensuring you get a well-rounded view of this fascinating country. Enjoy your adventure! 🌸🍣🎨