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21 DaysBudget: Mid-range

21 Days in Japan: The Ultimate Grand Alpine & Alps Route

Estimated Land Cost$4,500 - $6,500 per person
CultureNatureTemplesFoodHistoryOffbeat

Route Map

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Trip Bookings Checklist
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Subway PassSkip queues with physical Suica cards or Tokyo Subway passes.
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Rail PassesBook Shinkansen tickets or regional JR rail passes.
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Shibuya SkyBook advanced entry tickets for Shibuya Sky to guarantee entry slot.
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Teamlab PlanetsBook advanced entry tickets for Teamlab Planets to guarantee entry slot.
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Umeda Sky BuildingBook advanced entry tickets for Umeda Sky Building to guarantee entry slot.
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Osaka CastleBook advanced entry tickets for Osaka Castle to guarantee entry slot.
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Day-by-Day Timeline

1

Day 1: Welcome to Tokyo

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Walk or utilize local subway/train networks from your accommodation to the morning's first destination.

Japan
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Explore local landmarks

Wander through historic streets and districts.

Japan
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Explore local landmarks and head towards the lunch area.

Japan
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine at a local restaurant or traditional eatery to rest your feet and taste regional culinary specialties.

Japan
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Arrival & Hotel Check-in.

Shinjuku, Tokyo
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Arrival & Hotel Check-in

Arrive at Haneda or Narita Airport and transfer to your hotel.

Shinjuku, Tokyo
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Explore the multi-level basement food halls (depachika) of local department stores to view gourmet desserts and snacks.

Shinjuku, Tokyo
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Enjoy sunset vistas over the skyline from the free Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building deck.

Shinjuku, Tokyo
19:30 – 21:30

πŸ“ Shinjuku Skyline Dinner

Enjoy dinner in one of Shinjuku's high-rise restaurants overlooking the neon city.

Shinjuku, Tokyo
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Wander past neon lights in Kabukicho or sip a craft drink in a tiny Golden Gai bar.

Shinjuku, Tokyo
2

Day 2: Historic Asakusa & Akihabara Electric Town

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line to Asakusa Station and walk to the temple gates.

Asakusa, Tokyo
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Sensō-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo's oldest and most iconic Buddhist temple and the Nakamise-dori shopping street.

Asakusa, Tokyo
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Sensō-ji Temple and head towards the lunch area.

Asakusa, Tokyo
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Enjoy historic Edomae tempura at Sansada (operating since 1837) or try handmade Namiki Yabusoba noodles.

Asakusa, Tokyo
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Akihabara Electronics & Anime.

Akihabara, Tokyo
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Akihabara Electronics & Anime

Discover the multi-story hobby shops, retro gaming centers, and electronic stores of Akihabara.

Akihabara, Tokyo
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Explore the multi-level basement food halls (depachika) of local department stores to view gourmet desserts and snacks.

Akihabara, Tokyo
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Visit a scenic local viewpoint, bridge, or public park to watch the city transform as the sun goes down.

Akihabara, Tokyo
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Book a table for a dedicated dinner showing off local specialties and seasonal ingredients.

Akihabara, Tokyo
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Take a leisure stroll to see local monuments illuminated at night, or head back to the hotel for a night onsen soak.

Akihabara, Tokyo
3

Day 3: Meiji Shrine, Harajuku & Shibuya Sky

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station, situated right next to the park forest.

Harajuku, Tokyo
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Meiji Jingu Shrine

Walk through the serene forest pathways to Tokyo's grandest Shinto shrine.

Harajuku, Tokyo
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Meiji Jingu Shrine and head towards the lunch area.

Harajuku, Tokyo
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Try savory Japanese street food crepes or grab lunch at a cozy organic cafe in Ura-Harajuku.

Harajuku, Tokyo
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Shibuya Crossing & Shibuya Sky.

Shibuya, Tokyo
Book advanced tickets to guarantee your entry.
Reserve Shibuya Sky
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Shibuya Crossing & Shibuya Sky

Witness the scramble crossing and ascend to the Shibuya Sky outdoor observation deck for sunset.

Shibuya, Tokyo
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Explore the multi-level basement food halls (depachika) of local department stores to view gourmet desserts and snacks.

Shibuya, Tokyo
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Head to a high-rise viewpoint to see the crossing grid light up as dusk falls.

Shibuya, Tokyo
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Enjoy a hotpot dinner or try regional street eats at local taverns.

Shibuya, Tokyo
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Explore neon-lit alleys, music lounges, or walk across the glowing scramble crossing.

Shibuya, Tokyo
4

Day 4: Digital Art & Waterfront Odaiba

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Ride the automated Yurikamome Line over the scenic Rainbow Bridge to the waterfront.

Toyosu, Tokyo
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ teamLab Planets TOKYO

Walk through water and explore immersive, digital art installations.

Toyosu, Tokyo
Book advanced tickets to guarantee your entry.
Reserve Teamlab Planets
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at teamLab Planets TOKYO and head towards the lunch area.

Toyosu, Tokyo
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Savor fresh seafood bowls (kaisendon) at the bustling Toyosu Market restaurants.

Toyosu, Tokyo
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Odaiba Seaside Park.

Odaiba, Tokyo
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Odaiba Seaside Park

Stroll along the waterfront, see the miniature Statue of Liberty, and view the Rainbow Bridge.

Odaiba, Tokyo
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Explore the multi-level basement food halls (depachika) of local department stores to view gourmet desserts and snacks.

Odaiba, Tokyo
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Watch the sunset over Tokyo Bay and see the Rainbow Bridge illuminate in colorful lights.

Odaiba, Tokyo
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Book a table for a dedicated dinner showing off local specialties and seasonal ingredients.

Odaiba, Tokyo
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Take a leisure stroll to see local monuments illuminated at night, or head back to the hotel for a night onsen soak.

Odaiba, Tokyo
5

Day 5: Scenic Travel to Hakone Mt. Fuji Area

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Walk or utilize local subway/train networks from your accommodation to the morning's first destination.

Hakone
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Romancecar to Hakone

Board the scenic express train to Hakone resort town. Check into a traditional onsen ryokan.

Hakone
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Romancecar to Hakone and head towards the lunch area.

Hakone
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine at a local restaurant or traditional eatery to rest your feet and taste regional culinary specialties.

Hakone
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Lake Ashi Cruise & Hakone Shrine.

Hakone
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Lake Ashi Cruise & Hakone Shrine

Sail in a replica pirate ship across Lake Ashi and view the famous floating torii gate.

Hakone
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Enjoy free-play block. Take photos, explore local shopping streets (shotengai), buy souvenirs, or relax at a nearby cafe.

Hakone
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Visit a scenic local viewpoint, bridge, or public park to watch the city transform as the sun goes down.

Hakone
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Book a table for a dedicated dinner showing off local specialties and seasonal ingredients.

Hakone
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Take a leisure stroll to see local monuments illuminated at night, or head back to the hotel for a night onsen soak.

Hakone
6

Day 6: Matsumoto Crow Castle Exploration

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Walk or utilize local subway/train networks from your accommodation to the morning's first destination.

Matsumoto
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Travel to Matsumoto

Take the train into the mountainous Nagano prefecture.

Matsumoto
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Travel to Matsumoto and head towards the lunch area.

Matsumoto
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine at a local restaurant or traditional eatery to rest your feet and taste regional culinary specialties.

Matsumoto
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Matsumoto Castle.

Matsumoto
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Matsumoto Castle

Tour one of Japan's premier historic castles, known as the 'Crow Castle' due to its black exterior.

Matsumoto
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Enjoy free-play block. Take photos, explore local shopping streets (shotengai), buy souvenirs, or relax at a nearby cafe.

Matsumoto
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Visit a scenic local viewpoint, bridge, or public park to watch the city transform as the sun goes down.

Matsumoto
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Book a table for a dedicated dinner showing off local specialties and seasonal ingredients.

Matsumoto
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Take a leisure stroll to see local monuments illuminated at night, or head back to the hotel for a night onsen soak.

Matsumoto
7

Day 7: Mountain Towns & Hida Beef in Takayama

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Walk or utilize local subway/train networks from your accommodation to the morning's first destination.

Takayama
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Highway Bus to Takayama

Travel by scenic highway bus through the Northern Alps to the historic town of Takayama.

Takayama
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Highway Bus to Takayama and head towards the lunch area.

Takayama
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine at a local restaurant or traditional eatery to rest your feet and taste regional culinary specialties.

Takayama
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Sanmachi Suji Historic District.

Takayama
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Sanmachi Suji Historic District

Stroll through the beautifully preserved Edo-period merchant streets and taste Hida beef skewers.

Takayama
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Enjoy free-play block. Take photos, explore local shopping streets (shotengai), buy souvenirs, or relax at a nearby cafe.

Takayama
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Visit a scenic local viewpoint, bridge, or public park to watch the city transform as the sun goes down.

Takayama
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Book a table for a dedicated dinner showing off local specialties and seasonal ingredients.

Takayama
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Take a leisure stroll to see local monuments illuminated at night, or head back to the hotel for a night onsen soak.

Takayama
8

Day 8: Shirakawa-go Farmhouses to Kanazawa

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Walk or utilize local subway/train networks from your accommodation to the morning's first destination.

Shirakawa-go
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Shirakawa-go Gassho Village

Excursion to see the UNESCO-listed steep-roofed thatched farmhouses nestled in a mountain valley.

Shirakawa-go
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Shirakawa-go Gassho Village and head towards the lunch area.

Shirakawa-go
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine at a local restaurant or traditional eatery to rest your feet and taste regional culinary specialties.

Shirakawa-go
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Travel to Kanazawa & Chaya Streets.

Kanazawa
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Travel to Kanazawa & Chaya Streets

Travel to the castle town of Kanazawa and walk through Higashi Chaya geisha district.

Kanazawa
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Enjoy free-play block. Take photos, explore local shopping streets (shotengai), buy souvenirs, or relax at a nearby cafe.

Kanazawa
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Visit a scenic local viewpoint, bridge, or public park to watch the city transform as the sun goes down.

Kanazawa
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Book a table for a dedicated dinner showing off local specialties and seasonal ingredients.

Kanazawa
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Take a leisure stroll to see local monuments illuminated at night, or head back to the hotel for a night onsen soak.

Kanazawa
9

Day 9: Kenroku-en Gardens & Samurai Homes

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Walk or utilize local subway/train networks from your accommodation to the morning's first destination.

Kanazawa
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Kenroku-en Garden

Visit one of the three great landscape gardens of Japan, renowned for its classic design.

Kanazawa
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Kenroku-en Garden and head towards the lunch area.

Kanazawa
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine at a local restaurant or traditional eatery to rest your feet and taste regional culinary specialties.

Kanazawa
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Nagamachi Samurai District.

Kanazawa
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Nagamachi Samurai District

Wander through mud-walled streets and tour the historic Nomura Samurai Residence.

Kanazawa
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Enjoy free-play block. Take photos, explore local shopping streets (shotengai), buy souvenirs, or relax at a nearby cafe.

Kanazawa
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Visit a scenic local viewpoint, bridge, or public park to watch the city transform as the sun goes down.

Kanazawa
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Book a table for a dedicated dinner showing off local specialties and seasonal ingredients.

Kanazawa
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Take a leisure stroll to see local monuments illuminated at night, or head back to the hotel for a night onsen soak.

Kanazawa
10

Day 10: Alps to Cultural Kyoto

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Board the Kyoto City Bus or take a short taxi ride from your hotel to the historical site.

Kyoto
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Thunderbird Express to Kyoto

Board the direct express train along Lake Biwa to Kyoto. Check into your accommodation.

Kyoto
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Thunderbird Express to Kyoto and head towards the lunch area.

Kyoto
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine on traditional Kyoto-style udon, seasonal obanzai dishes, or high-quality tofu cuisine.

Kyoto
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Neighborhood Exploration.

Kyoto
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Neighborhood Exploration

Discover hidden streets, local cafes, and scenic views.

Kyoto
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Wander down preservation-zone wooden side alleys, browse traditional folding fans, and shop for local green tea treats.

Kyoto
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Stroll along the Kamogawa River bank as lanterns light up the wooden balconies of Pontocho.

Kyoto
19:30 – 21:30

πŸ“ Evening walk in Gion

Stroll the lantern-lit wooden machiya streets of Gion, keeping an eye out for geiko and maiko.

Gion, Kyoto
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Take a quiet, atmospheric walk through the lantern-lit wooden alleys of Gion or Pontocho.

Gion, Kyoto
11

Day 11: Kyoto Temple Trail & Higashiyama Streets

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Board the Kyoto City Bus or take a short taxi ride from your hotel to the historical site.

Higashiyama, Kyoto
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore the historic temple stage with panoramic views over Kyoto's forest and city.

Higashiyama, Kyoto
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Kiyomizu-dera Temple and head towards the lunch area.

Higashiyama, Kyoto
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine on traditional Kyoto-style udon, seasonal obanzai dishes, or high-quality tofu cuisine.

Higashiyama, Kyoto
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Yasaka Shrine & Kodai-ji.

Higashiyama, Kyoto
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Yasaka Shrine & Kodai-ji

Walk through Maruyama Park to Yasaka Shrine and the tranquil stone gardens of Kodai-ji.

Higashiyama, Kyoto
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Wander down preservation-zone wooden side alleys, browse traditional folding fans, and shop for local green tea treats.

Higashiyama, Kyoto
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Stroll along the Kamogawa River bank as lanterns light up the wooden balconies of Pontocho.

Higashiyama, Kyoto
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Indulge in a multi-course Kaiseki banquet displaying artistic seasonal ingredients.

Higashiyama, Kyoto
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Take a quiet, atmospheric walk through the lantern-lit wooden alleys of Gion or Pontocho.

Higashiyama, Kyoto
12

Day 12: Arashiyama Bamboo Groves & Golden Pavilion

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Take the JR San-in Line from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station.

Arashiyama, Kyoto
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Arashiyama Bamboo Path

Beat the crowds to walk through the towering bamboo grove and visit Tenryu-ji Temple.

Arashiyama, Kyoto
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Arashiyama Bamboo Path and head towards the lunch area.

Arashiyama, Kyoto
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine on traditional Kyoto-style udon, seasonal obanzai dishes, or high-quality tofu cuisine.

Arashiyama, Kyoto
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion).

Kita-ku, Kyoto
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at the top two floors of this Zen temple covered in brilliant gold leaf.

Kita-ku, Kyoto
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Wander down preservation-zone wooden side alleys, browse traditional folding fans, and shop for local green tea treats.

Kita-ku, Kyoto
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Stroll along the Kamogawa River bank as lanterns light up the wooden balconies of Pontocho.

Kita-ku, Kyoto
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Indulge in a multi-course Kaiseki banquet displaying artistic seasonal ingredients.

Kita-ku, Kyoto
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Take a quiet, atmospheric walk through the lantern-lit wooden alleys of Gion or Pontocho.

Kita-ku, Kyoto
13

Day 13: Fushimi Inari Torii & Deer of Nara

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Ride the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Inari Station, directly opposite the shrine.

Fushimi, Kyoto
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Fushimi Inari Shrine Hike

Walk through the thousands of vermilion Shinto torii gates winding up Mount Inari.

Fushimi, Kyoto
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Fushimi Inari Shrine Hike and head towards the lunch area.

Fushimi, Kyoto
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine on traditional Kyoto-style udon, seasonal obanzai dishes, or high-quality tofu cuisine.

Fushimi, Kyoto
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Todai-ji & Nara Deer Park.

Nara Park
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Todai-ji & Nara Deer Park

See the Daibutsu (Great Buddha) inside the world's largest wooden building and feed the bow-welcoming deer.

Nara Park
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Enjoy free-play block. Take photos, explore local shopping streets (shotengai), buy souvenirs, or relax at a nearby cafe.

Nara Park
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Visit a scenic local viewpoint, bridge, or public park to watch the city transform as the sun goes down.

Nara Park
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Book a table for a dedicated dinner showing off local specialties and seasonal ingredients.

Nara Park
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Take a leisure stroll to see local monuments illuminated at night, or head back to the hotel for a night onsen soak.

Nara Park
14

Day 14: Uji Matcha Tasting & Historic Byodoin

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Walk or utilize local subway/train networks from your accommodation to the morning's first destination.

Uji
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Uji Tea Ceremony & Tasting

Take a short train ride to Uji, the green tea capital, and taste freshly ground matcha.

Uji
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Uji Tea Ceremony & Tasting and head towards the lunch area.

Uji
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine at a local restaurant or traditional eatery to rest your feet and taste regional culinary specialties.

Uji
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Byodoin Temple Phoenix Hall.

Uji
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Byodoin Temple Phoenix Hall

Visit the spectacular Phoenix Hall, which is featured on the 10-yen coin.

Uji
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Enjoy free-play block. Take photos, explore local shopping streets (shotengai), buy souvenirs, or relax at a nearby cafe.

Uji
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Visit a scenic local viewpoint, bridge, or public park to watch the city transform as the sun goes down.

Uji
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Book a table for a dedicated dinner showing off local specialties and seasonal ingredients.

Uji
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Take a leisure stroll to see local monuments illuminated at night, or head back to the hotel for a night onsen soak.

Uji
15

Day 15: Himeji Castle to Street Lights of Osaka

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Walk or utilize local subway/train networks from your accommodation to the morning's first destination.

Himeji
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Himeji Castle Keep

Excursion to Himeji Castle, widely considered the most spectacular original castle in Japan.

Himeji
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Himeji Castle Keep and head towards the lunch area.

Himeji
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine at a local restaurant or traditional eatery to rest your feet and taste regional culinary specialties.

Himeji
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Dotonbori Street Food Feast.

Dotonbori, Osaka
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Dotonbori Street Food Feast

Travel to Osaka and taste legendary takoyaki and okonomiyaki under neon lights.

Dotonbori, Osaka
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Explore quirky retro arcades, browse local kitchenware shops, or sample street-side snacks.

Dotonbori, Osaka
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Look out over the city lights from the open-air circular deck of the Umeda Sky Building.

Dotonbori, Osaka
Book advanced tickets to guarantee your entry.
Reserve Umeda Sky Building
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Feast on kushikatsu deep-fried skewers or savory teppanyaki dishes.

Dotonbori, Osaka
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Walk along the glowing Dotonbori canal beneath giant neon mechanical signs.

Dotonbori, Osaka
16

Day 16: Osaka Feudal Castle & Retro Shinsekai

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Take the Osaka Loop Line or Midosuji Subway Line to your destination.

Chuo-ku, Osaka
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Osaka Castle Park

Tour the historic castle tower museum and walk around the vast moat gardens.

Chuo-ku, Osaka
Book advanced tickets to guarantee your entry.
Reserve Osaka Castle
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Osaka Castle Park and head towards the lunch area.

Chuo-ku, Osaka
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine on freshly grilled okonomiyaki savory pancakes or hot takoyaki octopus balls.

Chuo-ku, Osaka
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Retro Shinsekai & Tsutenkaku.

Shinsekai, Osaka
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Retro Shinsekai & Tsutenkaku

Explore the nostalgic 1920s neighborhood and taste deep-fried kushikatsu skewers.

Shinsekai, Osaka
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Explore quirky retro arcades, browse local kitchenware shops, or sample street-side snacks.

Shinsekai, Osaka
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Look out over the city lights from the open-air circular deck of the Umeda Sky Building.

Shinsekai, Osaka
Book advanced tickets to guarantee your entry.
Reserve Umeda Sky Building
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Feast on kushikatsu deep-fried skewers or savory teppanyaki dishes.

Shinsekai, Osaka
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Walk along the glowing Dotonbori canal beneath giant neon mechanical signs.

Shinsekai, Osaka
17

Day 17: Mt. Koya Sacred Temple Stay

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Walk or utilize local subway/train networks from your accommodation to the morning's first destination.

Koyasan
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Nankai Railway to Koyasan

Journey via scenic cable car up Mt. Koya, the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism. Check into a shukubo temple lodging.

Koyasan
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Nankai Railway to Koyasan and head towards the lunch area.

Koyasan
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine at a local restaurant or traditional eatery to rest your feet and taste regional culinary specialties.

Koyasan
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Neighborhood Exploration.

Koyasan
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Neighborhood Exploration

Discover hidden streets, local cafes, and scenic views.

Koyasan
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Enjoy free-play block. Take photos, explore local shopping streets (shotengai), buy souvenirs, or relax at a nearby cafe.

Koyasan
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Visit a scenic local viewpoint, bridge, or public park to watch the city transform as the sun goes down.

Koyasan
19:30 – 21:30

πŸ“ Okunoin Cemetery Night Walk

Take a guided evening walk through Japan's largest cemetery, illuminated by stone lanterns.

Koyasan
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Take a leisure stroll to see local monuments illuminated at night, or head back to the hotel for a night onsen soak.

Koyasan
18

Day 18: Buddhist Morning Chants to Hiroshima

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Walk or utilize local subway/train networks from your accommodation to the morning's first destination.

Koyasan
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Morning Prayer & Shojin Ryori

Attend the morning chanting service with Buddhist monks and eat a traditional vegetarian breakfast.

Koyasan
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Morning Prayer & Shojin Ryori and head towards the lunch area.

Koyasan
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine at a local restaurant or traditional eatery to rest your feet and taste regional culinary specialties.

Koyasan
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Travel to Hiroshima & Peace Park.

Hiroshima
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Travel to Hiroshima & Peace Park

Travel via bullet train to Hiroshima and visit the moving Peace Memorial Museum and A-Bomb Dome.

Hiroshima
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Enjoy free-play block. Take photos, explore local shopping streets (shotengai), buy souvenirs, or relax at a nearby cafe.

Hiroshima
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Watch the sunset cast its reflection behind the floating red Torii gate at Itsukushima.

Hiroshima
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Book a table for a dedicated dinner showing off local specialties and seasonal ingredients.

Hiroshima
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Take a leisure stroll to see local monuments illuminated at night, or head back to the hotel for a night onsen soak.

Hiroshima
19

Day 19: Miyajima Island Floating Torii Gate

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Walk or utilize local subway/train networks from your accommodation to the morning's first destination.

Miyajima
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Itsukushima Shrine & Miyajima

Take the ferry to Miyajima Island to see the iconic floating torii gate and hike Mt. Misen.

Miyajima
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Itsukushima Shrine & Miyajima and head towards the lunch area.

Miyajima
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine at a local restaurant or traditional eatery to rest your feet and taste regional culinary specialties.

Miyajima
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Miyajima Oysters & Momiji Manju.

Miyajima
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Miyajima Oysters & Momiji Manju

Sample grilled local oysters and maple-leaf-shaped sweet cakes along the shopping streets.

Miyajima
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Enjoy free-play block. Take photos, explore local shopping streets (shotengai), buy souvenirs, or relax at a nearby cafe.

Miyajima
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Watch the sunset cast its reflection behind the floating red Torii gate at Itsukushima.

Miyajima
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Book a table for a dedicated dinner showing off local specialties and seasonal ingredients.

Miyajima
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Take a leisure stroll to see local monuments illuminated at night, or head back to the hotel for a night onsen soak.

Miyajima
20

Day 20: Return to Tokyo & Ginza Shopping

08:30 – 09:00

Morning Commute

Walk or utilize local subway/train networks from your accommodation to the morning's first destination.

Tokyo Station
09:00 – 11:30

πŸ“ Shinkansen back to Tokyo

Board the Nozomi Bullet Train back to the capital (4 hours).

Tokyo Station
11:30 – 12:00

Transit & Buffer Time

Conclude morning events at Shinkansen back to Tokyo and head towards the lunch area.

Tokyo Station
12:00 – 13:30

Lunch & Rest

Dine at a local restaurant or traditional eatery to rest your feet and taste regional culinary specialties.

Tokyo Station
13:30 – 14:00

Midday Transit

Travel towards your afternoon destination area: Ginza Luxury District.

Ginza, Tokyo
14:00 – 16:30

πŸ“ Ginza Luxury District

Browse upscale boutique department stores and enjoy a high-end farewell sushi dinner.

Ginza, Tokyo
16:30 – 18:00

The "Free Play" Block

Explore the multi-level basement food halls (depachika) of local department stores to view gourmet desserts and snacks.

Ginza, Tokyo
18:00 – 19:30

Golden Hour / Sunset Sight

Visit a scenic local viewpoint, bridge, or public park to watch the city transform as the sun goes down.

Ginza, Tokyo
19:30 – 21:30

Dinner

Book a table for a dedicated dinner showing off local specialties and seasonal ingredients.

Ginza, Tokyo
21:30 onwards

Nightlife / Leisure Stroll

Take a leisure stroll to see local monuments illuminated at night, or head back to the hotel for a night onsen soak.

Ginza, Tokyo
21

Day 21: Farewell Japan

10:00 AM

Souvenir Shopping & Airport Transfer

Pick up final souvenirs at Tokyo Station or the airport before your return flight.

Haneda/Narita Airport

Where to Stay

Traditional Ryokan Stay

Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku

Traditional open-air hot spring baths atop a modern tower in the heart of Shinjuku.

Reserve Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku
Traditional Ryokan Stay

Ajisai Onsen Ryokan

Award-winning private open-air onsen experience tucked away in scenic Hakone.

Reserve Ajisai Onsen Ryokan
Traditional Ryokan Stay

Onsen Ryokan Mitake

Authentic volcanic hot springs and serene Zen designs in Sengokuhara, Hakone.

Reserve Onsen Ryokan Mitake

Popular Sights & Attraction Tickets

teamLab Planets

Digital immersive light museum

Reserve teamLab Planets

Shibuya Sky

360-degree open-air observation deck

Reserve Shibuya Sky

Tokyo Disney Resort

Access Disneyland & DisneySea theme parks

Reserve Tokyo Disney Resort

Universal Studios Japan

Super Nintendo World & Harry Potter theme park

Reserve Universal Studios Japan

Osaka Amazing Pass

Free entry to 40+ sights and unlimited transit

Reserve Osaka Amazing Pass

Harukas 300

Panoramic observation deck 300m above Osaka

Reserve Harukas 300

Nidec Kyoto Tower

Panoramic city views over historic Kyoto temples

Reserve Nidec Kyoto Tower

Popular Experiences in Tokyo

Top-rated tours & activities β€” book directly with confidence

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Popular Experiences in Kyoto

Top-rated tours & activities β€” book directly with confidence

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Next Steps: Prepare for Japan