18 day itinerary for Japon

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 Yanaka district, known for its old-world charm and traditional temples. Visit Yanaka Cemetery 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 Toshogu Shrine.
• Afternoon: Explore the beautiful nature around Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls. 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 Great Buddha (Daibutsu) and Hase-dera Temple.
• Afternoon: Hike the Daibutsu Trail for stunning views and autumn foliage.
• Evening: Enjoy a seaside dinner at Enoshima Island.

## Day 4: Hakone

• Morning: Travel to Hakone (about 1.5 hours). Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum.
• Afternoon: Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Ashi with views of Mt. Fuji. Visit the Hakone Shrine.
• 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 Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's most beautiful castles.
• Afternoon: Explore the Nakamachi Street with its traditional wooden buildings and shops.
• Evening: Try the local soba noodles for dinner.

## Day 6: Kamikochi

• Morning: Take a bus to Kamikochi (about 1 hour). Enjoy the stunning mountain scenery and autumn leaves.
• Afternoon: Hike along the Azusa River to Taisho Pond and Kappa Bridge.
• 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 Sanmachi Suji district with its well-preserved Edo-period buildings.
• Evening: Enjoy Hida beef for dinner.

## Day 8: Shirakawa-go

• Morning: Take a bus to Shirakawa-go (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 Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's top three gardens, especially beautiful in autumn.
• Afternoon: Explore the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
• Evening: Stroll through the Higashi Chaya district and enjoy a traditional tea house experience.

## Day 10: Noto Peninsula

• Morning: Rent a car and drive to the Noto Peninsula. Visit Wajima and its morning market.
• Afternoon: Explore the scenic coastline and visit the Shiroyone Senmaida rice terraces.
• Evening: Stay overnight in a ryokan along the coast.

## Day 11: Noto Peninsula to Toyama

• Morning: Continue exploring the Noto Peninsula, visiting the Notojima Aquarium.
• Afternoon: Drive to Toyama (about 2 hours). Visit the Toyama Glass Art Museum.
• Evening: Enjoy local seafood for dinner.

## Day 12: Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

• Morning: Start the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route (check seasonal schedules). Experience the stunning mountain scenery and the famous snow corridor.
• Afternoon: Visit Kurobe Dam and enjoy the views.
• Evening: Stay overnight in a mountain lodge.

## Day 13: Nagano

• Morning: Travel to Nagano (about 2 hours). Visit Zenkoji Temple, a significant Buddhist temple.
• Afternoon: Explore the nearby Togakushi Shrine, surrounded by beautiful nature.
• Evening: Try the local soba noodles for dinner.

## Day 14: Matsushiro

• Morning: Visit Matsushiro, a historic town with samurai residences and the famous Matsushiro Castle ruins.
• Afternoon: Explore the nearby Zenkoji and its beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Return to Nagano for the night.

## Day 15: Yamanouchi (Jigokudani Monkey Park)

• Morning: Travel to Yamanouchi (about 1 hour). Visit the Jigokudani Monkey Park 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 Gotokuji Temple, 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 Mount Takao

• Morning: Take a train to Mount Takao (about 1 hour). Hike to the summit for stunning views and beautiful autumn foliage.
• Afternoon: Visit the Yakuoin Temple on the mountain.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and enjoy a relaxing evening.

## Day 18: Departure

• Morning: Last-minute shopping in Tokyo. Visit the Tsukiji Outer Market 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! 🍁✈️