21 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Absolutely, I'd be happy to help plan your 21-day adventure in Japan! With your constraints in mind, here's a fun and diverse itinerary for you and your travel companion:

Day 1-4: Tokyo

• Arrive in Tokyo on the 29th of July
• Explore the bustling neighborhoods of Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Harajuku
• Visit iconic landmarks like the Senso-ji Temple and the Tokyo Tower
• Enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine in local restaurants

• Day trip to nearby attractions like Nikko or Kamakura

Day 5-7: Hakone

• Travel to Hakone using your Japan Rail Pass
• Relax in onsens (hot springs) and enjoy views of Mt. Fuji
• Take a cruise on Lake Ashi and ride the Hakone Ropeway for stunning views
• Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum and the Pola Museum of Art

Day 8-10: Kyoto

• Travel to Kyoto via the Shinkansen (bullet train)
• Explore historic temples and shrines like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Taisha
• Wander through the traditional streets of Gion and Higashiyama
• Attend a traditional tea ceremony and try kaiseki (multi-course) dining

Day 11-13: Osaka

• Take a day trip to Nara to see the famous deer park and Todai-ji Temple
• Visit Osaka Castle and the bustling Dotonbori district
• Try local street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki
• Explore the vibrant nightlife in areas like Umeda and Namba

Day 14-16: Hiroshima and Miyajima

• Travel to Hiroshima and visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum
• Take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the iconic floating torii gate
• Hike Mt. Misen for panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea
• Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for a unique culinary experience

Day 17-19: Kanazawa

• Travel to Kanazawa to explore its well-preserved samurai and geisha districts
• Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most beautiful gardens
• Explore the Nagamachi samurai district and the Higashi Chaya geisha district
• Try local seafood at Omicho Market and visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art

Day 20-21: Return to Tokyo

• Travel back to Tokyo for your departure
• Spend your last day shopping in districts like Ginza and Akihabara
• Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional izakaya or a modern sushi restaurant

I hope this itinerary gives you a good mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and delicious food throughout your 21 days in Japan. Safe travels and enjoy your adventure!