9 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Oh, how exciting! A 9-day trip to Japan sounds like a dream come true, especially with a focus on good food and a day in hot springs. Let's dive into your ideal itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Check into a trendy hotel in Shibuya or Shinjuku
• Explore the bustling streets of Harajuku and indulge in delicious street food like crepes and takoyaki
• Dinner at a local izakaya for some authentic Japanese cuisine

Day 2: Tokyo

• Visit Tsukiji Outer Market for a fresh sushi breakfast
• Explore the historic Asakusa district and visit Senso-ji Temple
• Enjoy a food tour in the evening, sampling various Japanese dishes like ramen, tempura, and yakitori

Day 3: Tokyo

• Spend the day in the trendy neighborhoods of Shimokitazawa or Nakameguro, known for their hip cafes and boutiques
• Visit teamLab Borderless for a unique digital art experience
• Dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant for a gourmet dining experience

Day 4: Hakone (Hot Springs Day)

• Travel to Hakone and check into a traditional ryokan with a private onsen
• Relax in the hot springs and enjoy the picturesque views of Mount Fuji
• Indulge in a kaiseki dinner, a multi-course meal showcasing seasonal ingredients

Day 5: Kyoto

• Take the Shinkansen to Kyoto and check into a ryokan in the Gion district
• Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine and explore the historic Gion district
• Dinner at a traditional Kyoto restaurant serving kaiseki cuisine

Day 6: Kyoto

• Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and visit the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple
• Participate in a tea ceremony and enjoy matcha and wagashi
• Dinner at a local izakaya for a casual dining experience

Day 7: Osaka

• Travel to Osaka and check into a hotel in the Dotonbori district
• Visit Osaka Castle and explore the vibrant Namba area
• Indulge in street food at Dotonbori and try local specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki

Day 8: Osaka

• Spend the day at Universal Studios Japan for a fun-filled experience
• Enjoy dinner at a kushikatsu restaurant, where you can try deep-fried skewers of meat and vegetables
• Explore the nightlife in Namba or Umeda

Day 9: Departure from Osaka

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe
• Visit a local market to pick up some last-minute souvenirs
• Head to Kansai International Airport for your departure

I hope this itinerary captures the essence of Japan's vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and relaxing hot springs. Have a fantastic trip!