18 day itinerary
Japon
Personalized with:Hors sentiers battus. de tokyo à tokyo mMomiji nature et temples
Itinerary
Japan is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and serene temples, especially during the momiji (autumn leaves) season. Here’s an 18-day itinerary that takes you off the beaten path while still allowing you to soak in the beauty of nature and the tranquility of temples. Let’s get started!
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Explore the , known for its old-world charm and traditional temples. Visit for a peaceful stroll among the cherry trees.
- Evening: Dinner at a local izakaya. Try some yakitori and sake!
Day 2: Nikko Day Trip
- Morning: Take an early train to Nikko (about 2 hours). Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of .
- Afternoon: Explore the beautiful nature around and . The fall colors here are breathtaking!
- Evening: Return to Tokyo. Enjoy a quiet evening in the Ueno Park area.
Day 3: Kamakura
- Morning: Head to Kamakura (about 1 hour). Visit the and .
- Afternoon: Hike the for stunning views and autumn foliage.
- Evening: Enjoy a seaside dinner at .
Day 4: Hakone
- Morning: Travel to Hakone (about 1.5 hours). Visit the .
- Afternoon: Take a scenic boat ride on with views of Mt. Fuji. Visit the .
- Evening: Relax in an onsen (hot spring) and enjoy a kaiseki dinner at your ryokan.
Day 5: Matsumoto
- Morning: Head to Matsumoto (about 3 hours). Visit , one of Japan's most beautiful castles.
- Afternoon: Explore the with its traditional wooden buildings and shops.
- Evening: Try the local soba noodles for dinner.
Day 6:
- Morning: Take a bus to (about 1 hour). Enjoy the stunning mountain scenery and autumn leaves.
- Afternoon: Hike along the to and .
- Evening: Return to Matsumoto for the night.
Day 7: Takayama
- Morning: Travel to Takayama (about 2.5 hours). Visit the morning market for local crafts and food.
- Afternoon: Explore the with its well-preserved Edo-period buildings.
- Evening: Enjoy Hida beef for dinner.
Day 8:
- Morning: Take a bus to (about 1 hour). Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site known for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
- Afternoon: Hike to the viewpoint for a panoramic view of the village.
- Evening: Return to Takayama for the night.
Day 9: Kanazawa
- Morning: Travel to Kanazawa (about 1.5 hours). Visit , one of Japan's top three gardens, especially beautiful in autumn.
- Afternoon: Explore the .
- Evening: Stroll through the and enjoy a traditional tea house experience.
Day 10:
- Morning: Rent a car and drive to the . Visit Wajima and its morning market.
- Afternoon: Explore the scenic coastline and visit the .
- Evening: Stay overnight in a ryokan along the coast.
Day 11: to Toyama
- Morning: Continue exploring the , visiting the .
- Afternoon: Drive to Toyama (about 2 hours). Visit the .
- Evening: Enjoy local seafood for dinner.
Day 12:
- Morning: Start the (check seasonal schedules). Experience the stunning mountain scenery and the famous snow corridor.
- Afternoon: Visit and enjoy the views.
- Evening: Stay overnight in a mountain lodge.
Day 13: Nagano
- Morning: Travel to Nagano (about 2 hours). Visit , a significant Buddhist temple.
- Afternoon: Explore the nearby , surrounded by beautiful nature.
- Evening: Try the local soba noodles for dinner.
Day 14:
- Morning: Visit , a historic town with samurai residences and the famous .
- Afternoon: Explore the nearby Zenkoji and its beautiful gardens.
- Evening: Return to Nagano for the night.
Day 15: Yamanouchi ()
- Morning: Travel to Yamanouchi (about 1 hour). Visit the to see the famous snow monkeys.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a soak in an onsen nearby.
- Evening: Stay overnight in Yamanouchi.
Day 16: Nagano to Tokyo
- Morning: Return to Tokyo (about 2.5 hours). Spend the day exploring the lesser-known neighborhoods like Shimokitazawa or Koenji.
- Afternoon: Visit the , known as the birthplace of the lucky cat (maneki-neko).
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Tokyo, perhaps in the vibrant Shinjuku area.
Day 17: Day Trip to
- Morning: Take a train to (about 1 hour). Hike to the summit for stunning views and beautiful autumn foliage.
- Afternoon: Visit the on the mountain.
- Evening: Return to Tokyo and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Day 18: Departure
- Morning: Last-minute shopping in Tokyo. Visit the for some fresh sushi.
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.
This itinerary balances nature, culture, and tranquility while keeping you away from the typical tourist spots. Enjoy your adventure in Japan, and don’t forget to take lots of photos of those stunning momiji leaves! 🍁✈️