3 day itinerary for Tokyo, Kanazawa, Osaka, Kyoto Nikko

Itinerary

Planning a 12-day adventure for three people through Tokyo, Kanazawa, Osaka, Kyoto, and Nikko sounds like a fantastic journey! Let’s break it down into a fun and engaging itinerary, focusing on each city while ensuring you get a taste of the culture, food, and sights. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

## Day 1-3: Tokyo

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Check into your hotel in Shinjuku or Shibuya for easy access to attractions.
• Afternoon: Explore Shibuya. Don’t miss the famous Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue. Grab lunch at a local ramen shop.
• Evening: Head to Harajuku. Stroll down Takeshita Street for quirky shops and delicious crepes. Dinner at an izakaya (Japanese pub) in Shinjuku.

## Day 2: Tokyo Highlights

• Morning: Visit the historic Asakusa district. Explore Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Street for traditional snacks and souvenirs.
• Afternoon: Head to Ueno Park. Visit the Tokyo National Museum or simply enjoy the park’s beauty. Have lunch at a nearby café.
• Evening: Explore Akihabara, the hub for anime and electronics. Enjoy dinner at a themed café (like a maid café) for a unique experience.

## Day 3: Modern Tokyo

• Morning: Visit the iconic Tokyo Tower or the newer Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views of the city.
• Afternoon: Explore the trendy district of Omotesando and visit the Meiji Shrine. Enjoy a peaceful walk through the forested area.
• Evening: Dinner in the vibrant district of Ginza. Try sushi at a conveyor belt sushi restaurant for a fun dining experience.

## Day 4-5: Nikko

## Day 4: Travel to Nikko

• Morning: Take an early train to Nikko (about 2 hours). Check into a ryokan (traditional inn).
• Afternoon: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Toshogu Shrine, the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Explore the beautiful grounds.
• Evening: Enjoy a kaiseki dinner at your ryokan, experiencing traditional multi-course Japanese cuisine.

## Day 5: Nature and Relaxation

• Morning: Head to Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls. Enjoy the stunning natural scenery and take a hike if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Afternoon: Visit the hot springs in the area for a relaxing soak.
• Evening: Return to your ryokan for another delightful dinner and perhaps a soak in an onsen (hot spring).

## Day 6-8: Kanazawa

## Day 6: Travel to Kanazawa

• Morning: Depart Nikko and take the train to Kanazawa (approximately 4-5 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and then visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Explore the Higashi Chaya District, known for its traditional teahouses. Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

## Day 7: Culture and History

• Morning: Visit Kanazawa Castle and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
• Afternoon: Explore the Nagamachi Samurai District, where you can see preserved samurai houses. Have lunch at a local soba noodle shop.
• Evening: Try Kanazawa’s famous seafood for dinner, perhaps at the Omicho Market.

## Day 8: Day Trip to Shirakawa-go

• Morning: Take a bus to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
• Afternoon: Explore the village and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery. Have lunch at a local eatery.
• Evening: Return to Kanazawa and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local izakaya.

## Day 9-10: Kyoto

## Day 9: Travel to Kyoto

• Morning: Take the train to Kyoto (about 2 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and stroll through its beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Explore the Gion district, famous for its geisha culture. Enjoy dinner at a traditional kaiseki restaurant.

## Day 10: Temples and Culture

• Morning: Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, known for its thousands of vermillion torii gates. Hike up the mountain for stunning views.
• Afternoon: Head to Arashiyama. Walk through the Bamboo Grove and visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
• Evening: Enjoy a riverboat dinner cruise on the Hozu River for a unique dining experience.

## Day 11-12: Osaka

## Day 11: Travel to Osaka

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Osaka (about 30 minutes). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Osaka Castle and its surrounding park. Have lunch at a nearby café.
• Evening: Explore Dotonbori, famous for its neon lights and street food. Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki for dinner!

## Day 12: Last Day in Osaka

• Morning: Visit the Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan) or Universal Studios Japan if you’re up for some fun.
• Afternoon: Last-minute shopping in Shinsaibashi or Namba. Grab lunch at a local eatery.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a teppanyaki restaurant, where you can watch your meal being prepared right in front of you!

Tips for Your Trip:

• Transportation: Consider getting a Japan Rail Pass for convenient travel between cities.
• Cash: While Japan is increasingly card-friendly, having cash on hand is useful, especially in smaller shops and restaurants.
• Etiquette: Be mindful of local customs, such as bowing and removing shoes when entering homes or certain establishments.

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your 12 days in Japan! Enjoy your trip, and feel free to ask if you have any questions or need further details! Safe travels! 🌏✈️