15 day itinerary for Japao

Itinerary

Japan is a treasure trove of culture, history, and stunning landscapes, and with your JR Pass, you’ll be able to travel seamlessly across the country. Let’s dive into a 15-day itinerary that highlights UNESCO World Heritage Sites while ensuring you have a fantastic time exploring this beautiful nation!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Activate your JR Pass.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and freshen up. Head to Asakusa to visit the Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple.
• Evening: Stroll around Nakamise Street for some snacks and souvenirs. Enjoy dinner in the area.

## Day 2: Tokyo

• Morning: Visit the Meiji Shrine, a serene spot in the heart of the city.
• Afternoon: Explore Harajuku and Omotesando for some trendy shopping and unique cafes.
• Evening: Head to Shibuya to see the famous Shibuya Crossing and have dinner at a local izakaya.

## Day 3: Nikko (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Morning: Take an early train to Nikko (about 2 hours). Visit the stunning Toshogu Shrine.
• Afternoon: Explore the beautiful natural scenery at Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and relax.

## Day 4: Kamakura (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Morning: Take a train to Kamakura (about 1 hour). Visit the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) and Hase-dera Temple.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a walk along Komachi Street for some local snacks and shopping.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and enjoy a quiet evening.

## Day 5: Kyoto

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a stunning Zen temple.
• Evening: Explore the Gion district, famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture.

## Day 6: Kyoto (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Morning: Visit the historic Kiyomizu-dera Temple and enjoy the views of the city.
• Afternoon: Explore the Philosopher’s Path, stopping at various temples along the way, including Ginkaku-ji.
• Evening: Dinner in the Pontocho Alley, known for its vibrant nightlife.

## Day 7: Nara (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Nara (about 1 hour). Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to a giant Buddha statue.
• Afternoon: Stroll through Nara Park, where you can see the friendly deer roaming around.
• Evening: Return to Kyoto and relax.

## Day 8: Himeji (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Morning: Travel to Himeji (about 1 hour). Visit Himeji Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful castles.
• Afternoon: Explore the Kokoen Garden nearby.
• Evening: Head back to Kyoto for dinner.

## Day 9: Hiroshima (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima (about 2 hours). Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
• Afternoon: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the iconic Itsukushima Shrine.
• Evening: Enjoy some local okonomiyaki for dinner before heading back to Hiroshima.

## Day 10: Okayama and Kurashiki

• Morning: Travel to Okayama (about 30 minutes). Visit Korakuen Garden and Okayama Castle.
• Afternoon: Head to Kurashiki, a charming town with a historic canal area. Explore the Bikan Historical Quarter.
• Evening: Return to Hiroshima for the night.

## Day 11: Takayama

• Morning: Travel to Takayama (about 4 hours). Check into a ryokan (traditional inn).
• Afternoon: Explore the old town with its well-preserved Edo-period buildings.
• Evening: Enjoy a kaiseki dinner at your ryokan.

## Day 12: Shirakawa-go (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Morning: Take a bus to Shirakawa-go (about 1 hour). Explore the traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
• Afternoon: Enjoy the stunning mountain scenery and take lots of photos!
• Evening: Return to Takayama for the night.

## Day 13: Kanazawa

• Morning: Travel to Kanazawa (about 2 hours). Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s top three gardens.
• Afternoon: Explore the Kanazawa Castle and the historic Higashi Chaya District.
• Evening: Try some local seafood for dinner.

## Day 14: Nagano (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Morning: Travel to Nagano (about 3 hours). Visit the Zenko-ji Temple.
• Afternoon: Take a trip to the nearby Matsumoto to see Matsumoto Castle.
• Evening: Return to Nagano for the night.

## Day 15: Return to Tokyo

• Morning: Head back to Tokyo (about 1.5 hours). Last-minute shopping in Shinjuku or Akihabara.
• Afternoon: Visit the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park if time allows.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant before heading to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

• Make sure to check the train schedules and reserve seats for the Shinkansen when necessary.
• Try to learn a few basic Japanese phrases; locals appreciate the effort!
• Don’t forget to indulge in Japan’s culinary delights, from sushi to ramen to street food!

This itinerary balances cultural exploration with relaxation, and you’ll get to experience some of the best UNESCO World Heritage Sites Japan has to offer. Enjoy your adventure! 🌸✈️