17 day itinerary
Tokio, Osaka, Kyoto
Itinerary
A 17-day adventure through Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto sounds like a dream! With a relaxed pace in mind, we’ll sprinkle in some cultural experiences, delicious food, and plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere. Let’s dive into your itinerary!
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Morning: Arrive at . Check into your hotel and freshen up.
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around your neighborhood. If you’re in Shinjuku, visit the for a peaceful start.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at an izakaya (Japanese pub) nearby. Try some yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and sake!
Day 2: Explore Shibuya and Harajuku
- Morning: Head to Shibuya. Visit the famous and take a photo with the Hachiko statue.
- Afternoon: Walk to Harajuku. Explore for quirky shops and delicious crepes. Don’t miss the , a serene escape in the middle of the city.
- Evening: Dinner in Harajuku. Try some trendy cafes or a themed restaurant.
Day 3: Asakusa and Ueno
- Morning: Visit in Asakusa. Explore for traditional snacks and souvenirs.
- Afternoon: Head to . Visit the or simply enjoy the park’s beauty.
- Evening: Dinner in Ueno. Try some local ramen or sushi.
Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko
- All Day: Take a day trip to Nikko (about 2 hours from Tokyo). Visit the stunning and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Return to Tokyo in the evening.
Day 5: and Ginza
- Morning: Explore , the hub for anime and electronics. Visit some themed cafes if you’re interested!
- Afternoon: Head to Ginza for upscale shopping and window shopping. Check out the .
- Evening: Enjoy a fine dining experience in Ginza. Consider trying kaiseki (traditional multi-course meal).
Day 6: Relaxing Day in Tokyo
- Morning: Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Visit a local onsen (hot spring) for relaxation.
- Afternoon: Explore the , known for its old-town charm and traditional houses.
- Evening: Dinner at a local izakaya. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
Day 7: Travel to Kyoto
- Morning: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit and stroll through its beautiful gardens.
- Evening: Dinner in the . Look out for geisha and enjoy traditional Kyoto cuisine.
Day 8: Arashiyama and Sagano
- Morning: Head to Arashiyama. Walk through the famous Bamboo Grove and visit the .
- Afternoon: Take a boat ride on the or explore the quaint shops in the area.
- Evening: Dinner at a riverside restaurant.
Day 9: Fushimi Inari and Nara
- Morning: Visit , famous for its thousands of red torii gates. Hike up the mountain for stunning views.
- Afternoon: Take a short train ride to Nara. Visit and , where you can feed the friendly deer.
- Evening: Return to Kyoto for dinner.
Day 10: Southern Kyoto
- Morning: Visit the beautiful gardens of and the .
- Afternoon: Explore and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
- Evening: Dinner in the , known for its traditional dining options.
Day 11: Travel to Osaka
- Morning: Take a short train ride to Osaka (about 30 minutes). Check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Explore and its surrounding park.
- Evening: Dive into the street food scene in . Try takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).
Day 12: Osaka’s Neighborhoods
- Morning: Visit the and enjoy the marine life.
- Afternoon: Explore the trendy areas for shopping and cafes.
- Evening: Dinner at a local izakaya or a themed restaurant.
Day 13: Day Trip to Himeji
- All Day: Take a day trip to Himeji (about 1 hour). Visit , one of Japan’s most beautiful castles, and explore the surrounding gardens. Return to Osaka in the evening.
Day 14:
- All Day: Spend the day at . Enjoy the rides and attractions at a leisurely pace.
- Evening: Dinner at , right outside the park.
Day 15: Relaxing Day in Osaka
- Morning: Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Visit for a relaxing onsen experience.
- Afternoon: Explore the or the .
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).
Day 16: Return to Tokyo
- Morning: Take the Shinkansen back to Tokyo. Check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit the digital art museum in Odaiba.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Tokyo. Consider a rooftop restaurant for stunning views of the city.
Day 17: Departure
- Morning: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Perhaps visit the or do some last-minute souvenir shopping.
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.
And there you have it! A lovely, relaxed 17-day itinerary that allows you to soak in the culture, food, and beauty of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! Safe travels! 🌸✈️
