17 day itinerary for Japon

Itinerary

Japan is a fantastic country with a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. With 17 days to explore, you can have a wonderful mix of urban experiences, historical sites, and natural beauty. Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary that takes you from Kagoshima to Tokyo, with plenty of stops along the way!

## Day 1: Arrival in Kagoshima

• Morning: Arrive at Kagoshima Airport. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Head to the iconic Sakurajima volcano. Take a ferry from Kagoshima to the island and enjoy the views.
• Evening: Enjoy a local dinner at a restaurant specializing in Kagoshima's famous black pork (Kurobuta).

## Day 2: Explore Kagoshima

• Morning: Visit the Sengan-en Garden, a beautiful landscape garden with views of Sakurajima.
• Afternoon: Explore the Kagoshima City Aquarium and learn about the marine life of the region.
• Evening: Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a seaside restaurant.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Yakushima

• All ## Day: Take an early ferry to Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend the day hiking in the lush forests, visiting the ancient cedar trees, and enjoying the natural beauty. Return to Kagoshima in the evening.

## Day 4: Travel to Kumamoto

• Morning: Take a train to Kumamoto (about 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan's most impressive castles. Don’t forget to check out the beautiful Suizenji Jojuen Garden nearby.
• Evening: Try Kumamoto's famous horse sashimi (sakura niku) for dinner.

## Day 5: Kumamoto to Fukuoka

• Morning: Depart for Fukuoka (about 1.5 hours by train).
• Afternoon: Explore Ohori Park and visit the Fukuoka Art Museum.
• Evening: Enjoy Hakata ramen at a local yatai (street food stall).

## Day 6: Fukuoka to Nagasaki

• Morning: Take a train to Nagasaki (about 2 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit the Nagasaki Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum to learn about the city's history.
• Evening: Enjoy Nagasaki's famous champon (noodle dish) for dinner.

## Day 7: Explore Nagasaki

• Morning: Take the tram to Glover Garden and enjoy the beautiful views of the harbor.
• Afternoon: Visit Dejima, the former Dutch trading post, and learn about its history.
• Evening: Relax at a local izakaya and try some local seafood.

## Day 8: Nagasaki to Hiroshima

• Morning: Travel to Hiroshima (about 4 hours by train).
• Afternoon: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
• Evening: Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner.

## Day 9: Day Trip to Miyajima

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

## Day 10: Hiroshima to Osaka

• Morning: Depart for Osaka (about 1.5 hours by train).
• Afternoon: Explore Osaka Castle and its beautiful park.
• Evening: Dive into Dotonbori for street food and vibrant nightlife. Don’t miss trying takoyaki and kushikatsu!

## Day 11: Explore Osaka

• Morning: Visit the Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan) and the Tempozan Ferris Wheel.
• Afternoon: Head to the Umeda Sky Building for panoramic views of the city.
• Evening: Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local izakaya.

## Day 12: Osaka to Kyoto

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Kyoto (about 30 minutes).
• Afternoon: Visit Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Ryoan-ji rock garden.
• Evening: Stroll through the historic Gion district and keep an eye out for geisha.

## Day 13: Explore Kyoto

• Morning: Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of red torii gates.
• Afternoon: Explore Arashiyama, including the Bamboo Grove and the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner.

## Day 14: Kyoto to Nara

• ## Day Trip: Take a short train ride to Nara (about 45 minutes). Visit Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park (with its friendly deer), and Kasuga-taisha Shrine. Return to Kyoto in the evening.

## Day 15: Kyoto to Tokyo

• Morning: Travel to Tokyo (about 2.5 hours by shinkansen).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore the Harajuku area, including Takeshita Street.
• Evening: Visit Shibuya and see the famous Shibuya Crossing. Grab dinner at a local izakaya.

## Day 16: Explore Tokyo

• Morning: Visit the historic Asakusa district and Senso-ji Temple.
• Afternoon: Head to Akihabara for some shopping and to experience the otaku culture.
• Evening: Enjoy a night view of Tokyo from the Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower.

## Day 17: Departure

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

This itinerary gives you a great mix of Japan's natural beauty, historical sites, and modern attractions. Make sure to check train schedules and book accommodations in advance, especially in popular areas. Enjoy your adventure in Japan! If you have any specific interests or adjustments, feel free to let me know!