Itinerary

Japan is a fantastic destination with a rich blend of culture, nature, and adventure. Here’s a fun and budget-friendly 21-day itinerary that includes skiing, museums, and a variety of activities perfect for a young couple like you. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Get a Suica or Pasmo card for easy travel.
• Afternoon: Check into a budget-friendly hotel or hostel in Shinjuku. Explore the vibrant streets of Shinjuku.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at an izakaya (Japanese pub) in Omoide Yokocho.

## Day 2: Tokyo - Culture & History

• Morning: Visit the historic Asakusa district and Senso-ji Temple.
• Afternoon: Head to Ueno Park and explore the Tokyo National Museum.
• Evening: Stroll through Akihabara, the electronics and otaku culture hub. Grab some ramen for dinner.

## Day 3: Tokyo - Modern Marvels

• Morning: Visit the Meiji Shrine and take a walk in Yoyogi Park.
• Afternoon: Explore Harajuku and check out the quirky shops on Takeshita Street.
• Evening: Head to Shibuya to see the famous Shibuya Crossing and have dinner at a local sushi spot.

## Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Nikko (about 2 hours from Tokyo). Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Toshogu Shrine and the beautiful waterfalls. Return to Tokyo in the evening.

## Day 5: Tokyo to Hakuba (Skiing)

• Morning: Take an early train to Hakuba (around 3-4 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into a ski lodge and rent your ski gear.
• Evening: Enjoy a cozy dinner at your lodge or a local restaurant.

## Day 6: Skiing in Hakuba

• All ## Day: Hit the slopes! Spend the day skiing or snowboarding at one of Hakuba’s many resorts.
• Evening: Relax in an onsen (hot spring) to soothe those muscles.

## Day 7: More Skiing in Hakuba

• All ## Day: Another day of skiing! Try a different resort or explore more of the slopes.
• Evening: Enjoy a hearty dinner and maybe some après-ski drinks.

## Day 8: Hakuba to Kanazawa

• Morning: Depart Hakuba and head to Kanazawa (about 3 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Explore the Higashi Chaya District and try some local seafood for dinner.

## Day 9: Kanazawa - Culture & Art

• Morning: Visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
• Afternoon: Explore the Kanazawa Castle and its surrounding park.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner (multi-course meal).

## Day 10: Kanazawa to Kyoto

• Morning: Take a train to Kyoto (about 2 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion).
• Evening: Stroll through the Gion district and keep an eye out for geisha.

## Day 11: Kyoto - Temples & Shrines

• Morning: Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of torii gates.
• Afternoon: Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
• Evening: Dinner at a local izakaya.

## Day 12: Kyoto - History & Culture

• Morning: Visit the Kyoto National Museum.
• Afternoon: Explore Nijo Castle and its beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony experience.

## Day 13: Day Trip to Nara

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Nara (about 1 hour). Visit Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park, where you can feed the friendly deer. Return to Kyoto in the evening.

## Day 14: Kyoto to Osaka

• Morning: Travel to Osaka (about 30 minutes).
• Afternoon: Visit Osaka Castle and its park.
• Evening: Explore Dotonbori for street food (try takoyaki and okonomiyaki).

## Day 15: Osaka - Museums & Fun

• Morning: Visit the Osaka Museum of History.
• Afternoon: Head to the Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan).
• Evening: Enjoy a night out in the Namba district.

## Day 16: Osaka to Hiroshima

• Morning: Take a train to Hiroshima (about 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
• Evening: Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner.

## Day 17: Day Trip to Miyajima

• All ## Day: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island. Visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and hike up Mount Misen for stunning views. Return to Hiroshima in the evening.

## Day 18: Hiroshima to Fukuoka

• Morning: Travel to Fukuoka (about 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Visit Ohori Park and the Fukuoka Art Museum.
• Evening: Explore Nakasu for some delicious Hakata ramen.

## Day 19: Fukuoka to Nagasaki

• Morning: Take a train to Nagasaki (about 2 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit the Nagasaki Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and try Nagasaki’s famous champon noodles.

## Day 20: Nagasaki to Tokyo

• Morning: Travel back to Tokyo (about 2 hours by train).
• Afternoon: Last-minute shopping in Shibuya or Harajuku.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant with a view of the Tokyo skyline.

## Day 21: Departure

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

Tips for Budgeting:

• Use Japan Rail Pass for long-distance travel (it can save you a lot).
• Eat at local markets and convenience stores for affordable meals.
• Stay in hostels or budget hotels, and consider capsule hotels for a unique experience.

This itinerary balances skiing, cultural experiences, and fun activities, making it perfect for a young couple. Enjoy your adventure in Japan! If you have any questions or need adjustments, feel free to ask!