20 day itinerary
Japan
Itinerary
Japan is such a beautiful country with a rich culture, delicious food, and stunning landscapes. With 20 days to explore, you can really take your time and soak in all the experiences. Here’s a relaxed itinerary that covers all the places you want to visit:
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Morning: Arrive at Narita or . Check into your hotel and freshen up.
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood. Explore the local shops and grab a bite to eat.
- Evening: Head to to see the famous and enjoy dinner at a local izakaya.
Day 2: Tokyo - Shinjuku &
- Morning: Visit the , a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
- Afternoon: Explore ’s for quirky shops and delicious crepes.
- Evening: Head to Shinjuku for panoramic views from the and dinner in Omoide Yokocho.
Day 3: Tokyo - Asakusa & Ueno
- Morning: Visit in Asakusa and explore the .
- Afternoon: Head to and visit a museum of your choice (like the ).
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in Ueno and maybe catch a local performance.
Day 4: Tokyo - Day Trip to Kamakura
- Morning: Take a train to Kamakura (about an hour). Visit the Great Buddha (Daibutsu).
- Afternoon: Explore and enjoy the coastal views.
- Evening: Return to Tokyo and have a relaxing dinner.
Day 5: Tokyo - &
- Morning: Dive into the world of anime and electronics in .
- Afternoon: Head to for upscale shopping and a nice lunch.
- Evening: Enjoy a sushi dinner at a conveyor belt sushi restaurant.
Day 6: Tokyo - Free Day
- Suggestions: Explore neighborhoods like Nakameguro, Shimokitazawa, or visit the in Mitaka. Take it easy!
Day 7: Travel to Kyoto
- Morning: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and visit the with its iconic torii gates.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner.
Day 8: Kyoto - Arashiyama & Northern Kyoto
- Morning: Visit the and the .
- Afternoon: Explore the beautiful gardens of .
- Evening: Relax at a local onsen (hot spring) if you can find one nearby.
Day 9: Kyoto - Southern Kyoto
- Morning: Visit and .
- Afternoon: Head to and explore its beautiful grounds.
- Evening: Stroll through , the geisha district, and enjoy dinner.
Day 10: Kyoto - Day Trip to Nara
- Morning: Take a train to Nara (about 45 minutes). Visit and see the Great Buddha.
- Afternoon: Explore and feed the friendly deer.
- Evening: Return to Kyoto for dinner.
Day 11: Travel to Osaka
- Morning: Take a short train ride to Osaka (about 15 minutes).
- Afternoon: Visit and its surrounding park.
- Evening: Explore for street food and vibrant nightlife.
Day 12: Osaka - Universal Studios or Local Culture
- Option 1: Spend the day at for some fun and thrills.
- Option 2: Explore local neighborhoods like and try kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).
Day 13: Osaka - Free Day
- Suggestions: Visit the , shop in Shinsaibashi, or relax in .
Day 14: Travel to Hiroshima
- Morning: Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima (about 1.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the .
- Evening: Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner.
Day 15: Hiroshima - Day Trip to Miyajima
- Morning: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island. Visit the iconic .
- Afternoon: Hike or take the cable car up for stunning views.
- Evening: Return to Hiroshima for a relaxing evening.
Day 16: Travel Back to Kyoto
- Morning: Head back to Kyoto (about 2 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the and enjoy the cherry blossoms (if in season).
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 17: Kyoto - Day Trip to Himeji
- Morning: Take a train to Himeji (about 1 hour) and visit .
- Afternoon: Explore nearby.
- Evening: Return to Kyoto for dinner.
Day 18: Kyoto - Relaxation Day
- Suggestions: Spend the day at a tea house, take a cooking class, or visit a local market.
Day 19: Travel Back to Tokyo
- Morning: Take the Shinkansen back to Tokyo.
- Afternoon: Last-minute shopping in or .
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant.
Day 20: Departure
- Morning: Last-minute sightseeing or shopping, depending on your flight time.
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.
This itinerary allows you to explore Japan at a relaxed pace while still hitting all the highlights. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to savor the delicious food along the way! Safe travels! 🌸✈️🍣
