12 day itinerary
Tokyo Kyoto Takayama Hiroshims
Personalized with:I want to travel at a relaxed pace
Itinerary
A 12-day itinerary through Tokyo, Kyoto, Takayama, and Hiroshima sounds like a fantastic adventure. Let’s take it easy and soak in the culture, food, and sights at a relaxed pace. Here’s a day-by-day plan for you:
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Morning: Arrive at . Check into your hotel and freshen up.
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood. If you’re near Shinjuku, visit the for a peaceful introduction to Japan.
- Evening: Head to for dinner. Enjoy some yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Day 2: Explore Tokyo
- Morning: Visit the iconic in Asakusa. Don’t forget to explore for some traditional snacks and souvenirs.
- Afternoon: Head to . You can visit a museum or just enjoy the park’s beauty. If you’re a fan of art, the is a great choice.
- Evening: Dinner in the Ueno area. Try some sushi at a local restaurant.
Day 3: More of Tokyo
- Morning: Explore the trendy district of Harajuku. Visit , a serene spot amidst the bustling city.
- Afternoon: Stroll down for some quirky shops and delicious crepes. Then, head to for a more upscale shopping experience.
- Evening: Dinner in Shibuya. Check out the famous and grab a bite at a local izakaya (Japanese pub).
Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko
- All Day: Take a day trip to Nikko (about 2 hours from Tokyo). Visit the stunning , enjoy the natural beauty of the area, and maybe even see . Return to Tokyo in the evening.
Day 5: Travel to Takayama
- Morning: Take the train to Takayama (around 4-5 hours). Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
- Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and explore the , known for its well-preserved Edo-period buildings.
- Evening: Try for dinner at a local restaurant. It’s a must-try!
Day 6: Explore Takayama
- Morning: Visit the . Enjoy fresh produce and local crafts.
- Afternoon: Explore the , an open-air museum showcasing traditional farmhouses.
- Evening: Relax at your accommodation or explore more local dining options.
Day 7: Travel to Kyoto
- Morning: Depart for Kyoto (around 2.5 hours by train).
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and visit the , famous for its thousands of red torii gates. It’s a beautiful hike!
- Evening: Dinner in the . You might even catch a glimpse of a geisha!
Day 8: Kyoto Temples and Gardens
- Morning: Visit . The gardens are stunning!
- Afternoon: Head to to see the famous rock garden, then visit .
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner, a multi-course Japanese meal.
Day 9: More Kyoto
- Morning: Explore Arashiyama. Walk through the Bamboo Grove and visit the if you’re up for it!
- Afternoon: Take a boat ride on the for a different perspective of the area.
- Evening: Return to central Kyoto and enjoy dinner at a local ramen shop.
Day 10: Travel to Hiroshima
- Morning: Take the shinkansen (bullet train) to Hiroshima (about 2 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the . It’s a moving experience.
- Evening: Try (savory pancakes) for dinner.
Day 11: Day Trip to Miyajima
- All Day: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island. Visit the famous and hike up to for breathtaking views. Enjoy the local street food, like grilled oysters!
- Evening: Return to Hiroshima and relax at your hotel.
Day 12: Departure
- Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Hiroshima.
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.
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 towns.
- Language: Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can enhance your experience!
Enjoy your trip! Each city has its own unique charm, and you’ll have plenty of time to savor every moment. Safe travels! 🌸✈️