3 day itinerary
Japan
Itinerary
Japan is such a fantastic destination, especially for families. With your girls aged 12 and 15, there’s so much to see and do that will keep everyone entertained. Here’s a fun and engaging 3-day itinerary that includes the iconic Mount Fuji!
Day 1: Tokyo Adventure
Morning:
- Start at Asakusa: Kick off your trip with a visit to , Tokyo’s oldest temple. The vibrant leading up to the temple is filled with traditional snacks and souvenirs. Don’t forget to try some melon bread or ningyo-yaki (small cakes filled with red bean paste)!
Lunch:
- Lunch in Asakusa: Grab a bite at one of the local eateries. You can try some delicious tempura or soba noodles.
Afternoon:
- : After lunch, head to . It’s a lovely place to stroll, and you can visit the or the if you’re feeling adventurous. The park is also great for some family photos!
Evening:
- : Make your way to Shibuya and experience the famous . It’s a bustling area filled with shops and restaurants. You can also visit the , a heartwarming story of loyalty.
Dinner:
- Dinner in Shibuya: Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly izakaya or a sushi restaurant. The girls might love trying their hand at making their own sushi!
Day 2: Mount Fuji and Hakone
Morning:
- Travel to Hakone: Start early and take the train to Hakone (about 1.5 hours from Tokyo). The views of Mount Fuji on a clear day are breathtaking!
Mid-Morning:
- : This unique museum features stunning sculptures and art installations in a beautiful outdoor setting. There’s also a fantastic foot bath where you can relax your feet!
Lunch:
- Lunch in Hakone: Enjoy a traditional kaiseki lunch or grab some curry rice at a local café.
Afternoon:
- : After lunch, take a scenic boat ride on . You might get lucky and see Mount Fuji in the background! There’s also the option to ride the for stunning views.
Evening:
- Onsen Experience: After a day of exploring, unwind at an onsen (hot spring). Many ryokans (traditional inns) offer family-friendly onsen experiences. It’s a great way to relax and soak in the culture!
Dinner:
- Dinner at the Ryokan: Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at your ryokan. It’s a wonderful way to experience Japanese hospitality.
Day 3: Kyoto Culture
Morning:
- Travel to Kyoto: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (about 2-3 hours). The train ride is an experience in itself, so enjoy the views!
Mid-Morning:
- : Start your Kyoto adventure at this iconic shrine famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates. It’s a bit of a hike, but the views and the experience are worth it!
Lunch:
- Lunch in Gion: Head to the for lunch. You can find many restaurants serving delicious udon or yudofu (tofu hot pot).
Afternoon:
- Explore Gion: After lunch, take a stroll through Gion, where you might spot a geisha or maiko. Visit the and enjoy the traditional architecture.
Evening:
- : Head to Kiyomizu-dera for sunset. The views of the city and the temple itself are stunning, especially as the sun sets.
Dinner:
- Dinner in Kyoto: Wrap up your trip with a delightful dinner at a local izakaya or a restaurant serving Kyoto-style cuisine. Try some yuba (tofu skin) or matcha desserts!
Tips for Your Trip:
- Transportation: Get a Japan Rail Pass if you plan to travel between cities. It’s super convenient!
- Cash: While Japan is becoming more card-friendly, having cash on hand is still a good idea, especially in smaller shops and restaurants.
- Etiquette: Teach the girls a few basic Japanese phrases and customs. It’s a great way to engage with the locals!
I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Japan! Enjoy your trip! 🌸✈️
