Itinerary

Japan is a treasure trove of culture, history, and stunning landscapes, and I’m thrilled to help you craft an off-the-beaten-path itinerary for 25 days. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1-3: Tokyo

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport.
• Check into a cozy guesthouse in the Yanaka district, known for its old-town charm.
• Stroll through Yanaka Cemetery and visit the quaint shops and cafes.
• Dinner at a local izakaya.

## Day 2: Explore Shimokitazawa

• Head to Shimokitazawa, a hip neighborhood filled with vintage shops and indie cafes.
• Visit the small art galleries and enjoy lunch at a local curry shop.
• In the evening, catch a live music performance at a local venue.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Okutama

• Take a train to Okutama (about 1.5 hours from Tokyo).
• Hike the trails around Lake Okutama and enjoy the serene nature.
• Return to Tokyo for dinner in the quiet neighborhood of Koenji.

## Day 4-6: Nikko & Kinugawa Onsen

## Day 4: Nikko

• Travel to Nikko (2 hours from Tokyo).
• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites: Toshogu Shrine and Futarasan Shrine.
• Explore the beautiful nature around Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls.

## Day 5: Kinugawa Onsen

• Head to Kinugawa Onsen, a hot spring town.
• Spend the day relaxing in an onsen (hot spring) and enjoy a kaiseki dinner at your ryokan.

## Day 6: Explore the Surroundings

• Take a leisurely hike in the nearby mountains or visit the Edo Wonderland theme park for a taste of samurai and ninja culture.

## Day 7-9: Nagano Prefecture

## Day 7: Matsumoto

• Travel to Matsumoto (2.5 hours from Nikko).
• Visit Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful castles.
• Explore the Nakamachi Street with its traditional wooden buildings.

## Day 8: Kamikochi

• Day trip to Kamikochi, a stunning alpine area.

• Hike along the Azusa River and enjoy breathtaking views of the Northern Japan Alps.

## Day 9: Takayama

• Travel to Takayama (2 hours from Matsumoto).
• Explore the old town, visit the morning market, and try local Hida beef.

## Day 10-12: Shirakawa-go & Kanazawa

## Day 10: Shirakawa-go

• Take a bus to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Explore the traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses and enjoy the rural scenery.

## Day 11: Kanazawa

• Head to Kanazawa (1.5 hours from Shirakawa-go).
• Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s top three gardens.
• Explore the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.

## Day 12: Noto Peninsula

• Take a day trip to the Noto Peninsula.
• Visit Wajima for its lacquerware and enjoy the coastal scenery.

## Day 13-15: Kyoto

## Day 13: Kyoto

• Travel to Kyoto (2 hours from Kanazawa).
• Visit the less crowded Nanzen-ji Temple and the Philosopher’s Path.
• Dinner in the Gion district, perhaps catch a glimpse of a geisha.

## Day 14: Arashiyama

• Explore Arashiyama, visit the bamboo grove, and take a boat ride on the Hozu River.
• Visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park for some fun with the monkeys!

## Day 15: Uji & Fushimi Sake District

• Day trip to Uji, famous for its matcha.

• Visit the Byodoin Temple and enjoy a matcha tea experience.
• In the evening, explore the Fushimi Sake District and sample local sake.

## Day 16-18: Shikoku Island

## Day 16: Takamatsu

• Travel to Takamatsu (3 hours from Kyoto).
• Visit Ritsurin Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens.
• Try the local Sanuki udon for dinner.

## Day 17: Naoshima

• Take a ferry to Naoshima, an island known for its contemporary art museums.
• Explore the Benesse House and the Chichu Art Museum.

## Day 18: Shodoshima

• Visit Shodoshima, famous for olive oil and soy sauce.
• Explore olive groves and enjoy the scenic views.

## Day 19-21: Hiroshima & Miyajima

## Day 19: Hiroshima

• Travel to Hiroshima (2 hours from Takamatsu).
• Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
• Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner.

## Day 20: Miyajima

• Take a ferry to Miyajima Island.
• Visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and hike up Mount Misen for stunning views.

## Day 21: Onomichi

• Day trip to Onomichi, a charming town known for its temples and cycling routes.

• Explore the temples and enjoy the local ramen.

## Day 22-25: Southern Japan

## Day 22: Fukuoka

• Travel to Fukuoka (1.5 hours from Hiroshima).
• Explore the city’s vibrant food scene, especially the yatai (street food stalls).

## Day 23: Dazaifu

• Day trip to Dazaifu, visit the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and the Kyushu National Museum.

## Day 24: Kumamoto

• Travel to Kumamoto (2 hours from Fukuoka).
• Visit Kumamoto Castle and Suizenji Jojuen Garden.

## Day 25: Departure

• Depending on your flight, enjoy a leisurely morning in Kumamoto or Fukuoka.
• Head to the airport for your departure.

---

And there you have it! A delightful 25-day adventure through Japan, filled with hidden gems and local experiences. Make sure to savor every moment, and don’t hesitate to chat with locals—they often have the best recommendations! Safe travels! 🌸✈️