2 Weeks in Japan Itinerary: Complete First-Timer Guide to “Blend In”
Planning on spending two weeks in Japan for the first time? After 14 trips since 2014 (with two more already planned), this is the exact route I’d give a friend on their first visit to Japan. I’m so passionate about sharing my love of this country with you, I’ve explored 36/47 prefectures and my work has been featured in Lonely Planet. I even wrote my own book on blending in, How to Not Look Like a Tourist. And I’m about to share all my knowledge with you!
This itinerary has been read more than a million times, and it makes my heart so full when I receive compliments from my readers that I’ve made their trip unforgettable. I’ll show you how to skip the queues and the same photos everyone else is chasing, and strategies to blend in so you experience the real Japan. Don’t settle for anything less.
This 14 day Japan itinerary covers the big-name cities at a relaxed pace, with realistic travel times and a lesser-known swap for each overcrowded spot. It skips crowded Hakone and trades nights in Osaka for overlooked Nagoya, and I’ll tell you why. If you’re serious about wanting to avoid crowds where possible when visiting Japan, I’ve got you covered. Let’s go!
2 weeks in Japan at a glance (updated October 2026)
- Route: Tokyo, Kyoto (with day trips to Osaka, Nara or Himeji), Hiroshima and Nagoya, then back to Tokyo for your flight home.
- Days 1 to 6, Tokyo (6 nights): Four days exploring Tokyo, then two day trips, or a night away in Fujinomiya (Mt Fuji views) or Atami (onsen). Stay: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu or The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon.
- Days 7 to 10, Kyoto (3 nights): 2 hours 20 mins from Tokyo by shinkansen. Stay: Kyoto Granbell Hotel Gion or Ryokan Yoshi Ima.
- Days 10 to 12, Hiroshima (2 nights): 1 hour 40 mins from Kyoto, with a day trip to Miyajima. Stay: RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima.
- Days 12 to 14, Nagoya (2 nights): 2 hours 15 mins from Hiroshima, with Nagoya Castle and a day at Legoland. Stay: Grand Base Hotel Chiyokura Nagoya.
- Days 14 and 15, Tokyo (1 night): 1 hour 35 mins back to Tokyo, so you have a buffer before your flight. Stay: Park Hotel Tokyo.
- Budget: Around USD 130 a day per person on a budget, or USD 220 mid-range, excluding flights (details below).
- Pace: Relaxed, with 3 to 6 nights in each base and only 4 hotel changes.
- Best time: Any time of year, but book early for cherry blossom season, Golden Week and the autumn leaves (see busy periods below).
- JR Pass: It doesn’t pay off for this route, so buy individual tickets instead.
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Japan 2 week itinerary: Complete guide for first-time visitors
I’ve shared how to transit to and from Haneda or Narita Airports, as well as money-saving tips for Tokyo transport down the page.
2 weeks in Japan itinerary, day by day
Here’s how the 14 days fit together. Every stop has its own section below with where to stay, where to eat and more ideas, so swap things in and out to suit you.
| Day | Plan | Sleep |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in Tokyo. Evening in Shibuya: the Scramble Crossing, Hachiko and Nonbei Yokocho. | Tokyo |
| 2 | Old Tokyo: Yanaka Ginza, Nezu Shrine, Ueno Park, Kappabashi, then Senso-ji at night. | Tokyo |
| 3 | Shibuya Sky in the morning, Shimokitazawa, then Shinjuku’s neon at night. | Tokyo |
| 4 | Sugamo, matcha in Hamarikyu Gardens, Zojo-ji, then Tokyo Tower at night (or Shibamata). | Tokyo |
| 5 | Day trip from Tokyo: Yokohama, Kawagoe, Kamakura, Nikko or the Fuji Five Lakes. Or spend a night away: Fujinomiya for Mt Fuji views, or an onsen in Atami or Shuzenji. | Tokyo (or a night away) |
| 6 | A second day trip, or a Mt Fuji sunrise or morning onsen soak, then back to Tokyo. | Tokyo |
| 7 | Bullet train to Kyoto (2 hrs 20 mins). Evening in Gion: Sanjo Ohashi, Yasaka Shrine lit up, Shirakawa-minami-dori. | Kyoto |
| 8 | Central Kyoto before the crowds: Sannenzaka, Kiyomizu-dera, Kennin-ji, Kodai-ji’s bamboo path, then dinner with a maiko. | Kyoto |
| 9 | Northern Kyoto: Arashiyama early, Gio-ji, Adashino Nembutsu-ji, Kinkaku-ji late afternoon. Or swap it for Osaka, Nara or Himeji Castle. | Kyoto |
| 10 | Fushimi Inari at 6 to 7am, then the bullet train to Hiroshima (1 hr 40 mins). Afternoon at the Peace Memorial Park and A-Bomb Dome, okonomiyaki for dinner. | Hiroshima |
| 11 | Day trip to Miyajima: Itsukushima Shrine, Daisho-in and Mt Misen. | Hiroshima |
| 12 | Morning at the Peace Memorial Museum and Peace Memorial Hall, then the bullet train to Nagoya (2 hrs 15 mins). Afternoon at Hommaru Palace and Shikemichi, Nayabashi Bridge at night. | Nagoya |
| 13 | A full day at Legoland, or the museums and Osu Kannon. Wagyu at Tokugawaen for dinner. | Nagoya |
| 14 | Bullet train back to Tokyo (1 hr 35 mins). teamLab, a favourite neighbourhood or a new one. | Tokyo |
| 15 | Fly home. | Home |
TIP: You may have heard of luggage forwarding services such as Yamato, but I don’t recommend it. This service can take 24 hours to receive your luggage, so you’ll need to carry a smaller bag of essentials with you.
Days 1 to 4: Tokyo
Tokyo is bigger than New York City, so I’ve built each day around neighbourhoods that sit next to each other. You won’t waste hours criss-crossing the city, you’ll see the icons when they’re quietest, and you’ll find the local Tokyo most first-timers walk straight past. Tap in and out with your Suica (IC) card on every train and subway below.
Day 1: Arrive, then Shibuya after dark
Why: you’ll be tired, so keep day one easy. One neighbourhood, close to your hotel, at its most electric after dark.
Afternoon: Fly into Haneda if you can: it’s only 15 minutes to central Tokyo on the monorail, and your Suica card covers it. Check in and drop your bags.
Evening: Head to Shibuya. Walk the Scramble Crossing, the world’s busiest with around 3,000 people crossing at any one time, then say hello to Hachiko, right outside the station. Afterwards, walk a few minutes along the railway tracks to Nonbei Yokocho, a narrow alley beneath the railway tracks lined with tiny izakaya and bars where you’ll meet locals. Hungry? Han No Daidokoro does incredible wagyu beef BBQ, or just wander across the crossing and up into the random little eateries in the lanes of Dōgenzaka, my favourite part of Shibuya to eat.
SKIP: Shibuya Sky tonight. Sunset slots are hard to get and it’s at its busiest, so you’ll go up on day 3 instead.
DON’T MISS: A drink with locals in Nonbei Yokocho.
Day 2: Old Tokyo, from Yanaka to Asakusa
Why: this is the Tokyo that survived. Yanaka came through the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake and the WWII firebombing, and you’ll finish at Tokyo’s oldest temple after the crowds have gone home.
Morning: Take the Yamanote Line to Nippori Station and walk a few minutes to Yanaka Ginza, one of Tokyo’s cat-loving neighbourhoods with old-world charm. Sample local specialties at the bakeries and browse the artisan knife, leather and coffee shops. (I personally enjoyed this Yanaka foodie tour with a local.) Then wander through the backstreets of Yanaka to Nezu Shrine (about a 15 minute walk) for its red torii tunnel. Visiting during the azalea season was a dream come true for me.
Afternoon: It’s an easy walk on to Ueno Park. Don’t miss the stunning details of Toshogu Shrine, peep through the circular branch of the “Moon Pine” at Kiyomizu Kannon-do, and see Bentendo Temple on the pond. Grab a bite under the railway tracks at Ameya Yokocho, just south of the park, then take the Ginza Line two stops from Ueno to Tawaramachi for Kappabashi “Kitchen Town” for kitchen knives and utensils, my pick for unique souvenirs.
Evening: Walk about 10 to 15 minutes from Kappabashi to Senso-ji in Asakusa, Tokyo’s oldest temple, dating back to 645 AD. Go at night: the Nakamise-dori shops are closed, but it’s a trade-off worth making because you’ll have the temple almost to yourself. Find out your fortune with omikuji for a ¥100 to ¥200 offering.
SKIP: Senso-ji in the middle of the day, when Nakamise-dori is shoulder to shoulder.
DON’T MISS: The “Moon Pine” at Kiyomizu Kannon-do in Ueno Park.
Prefer a cultural experience? Swap the morning for meeting a geisha and learning traditional arts from her at beautiful Kanda Shrine. Two more overlooked shrines hide behind Senso-ji too: my guide to Tokyo’s hidden gems has them.
Day 3: Shibuya from above, Shimokitazawa and Shinjuku
Why: today is modern Tokyo done right. The city from above while it’s quiet, the neighbourhood the cool kids moved to, and Shinjuku’s neon at night.
Morning: Shibuya Sky, on top of Shibuya Scramble Square right above the station, during the day when it’s far less crowded than at sunset. Book your Shibuya Sky tickets ahead, and read my Shibuya Sky tips so you don’t make the same mistakes I did on my first visit.
Afternoon: Take the Keio Inokashira Line a few stops to Shimokitazawa, the old Harajuku you’d expect: independent boutiques, vintage stores, little eateries and a young local vibe.
Evening: Take the Odakyu Line straight from Shimokitazawa to Shinjuku (about 10 minutes). At the station’s East Exit, look up for Shinjuku no Nekomae, the giant 3D cat (I spent a good half hour watching his antics!). Find Godzilla peering over Hotel Gracery and the famous neon of Kabukicho, then eat in the tiny lanes of Omoide Yokocho, on the west side of the station, or squeeze into a Golden Gai bar, a short walk from Kabukicho, some of which only seat eight.
SKIP: Takeshita Street in Harajuku. It’s become touristy and overcrowded with touts, and Shimokitazawa is the better version of what it used to be. In Kabukicho, ignore the girls’ bar touts and keep walking.
DON’T MISS: The view from Shibuya Sky on a clear morning.
Prefer somewhere smaller than Shinjuku? Shimbashi’s izakaya in the arches beneath the railway tracks are loved by salarymen. This Shimbashi hidden gem food tour shows you the ropes.
Day 4: Sugamo, then Tokyo Tower at dusk
Why: finish with the Tokyo locals love, a matcha break in an Edo-period garden, and the city’s icon lit up at night.
Morning: Jizo-dori in Sugamo, known as “Grandma’s Harajuku”, which starts right by Sugamo Station on the Yamanote Line. Expect tea shops, traditional candy stores, small fruit and veggie markets, no crowds and a much more local feel.
Afternoon: Ride the Yamanote Line south to Shimbashi and walk about 15 minutes to Hamarikyu Gardens. Here the pines are pruned so meticulously they look like giant bonsai: enjoy matcha the traditional way on tatami at Nakajima no Ochaya teahouse. Then walk (about 20 minutes) or ride the Toei Oedo Line one stop to Daimon for Zojo-ji Temple, with Tokyo Tower as its backdrop. Its thousands of Jizo statues are a memorial to children, and I couldn’t help but be moved, so please be respectful here.
Evening: Tokyo Tower, a few minutes’ walk behind Zojo-ji, lit up at night (skip-the-line observation deck tickets), then head back towards Shimbashi or Ginza for a drink and Japanese-style tapas at Kirin City, where you’ll find plenty of locals, which is always a good sign.
SKIP: The Imperial Palace East Gardens. There’s no actual palace, just the moat, walls and gates of old Edo Castle. I went on my first trip and wouldn’t prioritise it now.
DON’T MISS: Matcha at Nakajima no Ochaya in Hamarikyu Gardens.
Rather swap modern Tokyo for old-world charm? About 45 minutes away, Shibamata survived the WWII air raids: see the wooden carvings of Shibamata Taishakuten Temple, eat your way along the main street and enjoy matcha overlooking the garden at Yamamoto-tei.
TIP: Got more time in Tokyo? My 6 day Tokyo itinerary and Tokyo neighbourhood guide cover even more areas, with alternatives to every popular spot.
Where to eat in Tokyo
My personal favourite places to eat in Tokyo are in Shibuya and include Han No Daidokoro (incredible wagyu beef BBQ), Kirin City izakaya, and random little eateries around Shibuya’s Dōgenzaka area. If visiting with kids, my go-to’s are Kura Sushi and Saizeriya.
I’ve also taken this Shibuya ramen tour (use code Invisible5 for a discount) where I was able to try 6 mini bowls with a local ramen expert, and highly recommend it (read my review here).
TIP: Wondering what local food tours are right for you? I’ve personally undertaken multiple in Japan’s capital and reviewed them in my guide to the best food tours in Tokyo to help you choose.
You also can try crèpes in Shimokitazawa, have brunch in Azabujuban, Korean food in Shin-Obuko, traditional foods in Yanaka Ginza, visit the unusual Maidreamin’ maid café in Akihabara, and in Shinjuku the Golden Gai/Kabukicho area and Omoide Yokocho (although this is now very touristy so this Shinjuku foodie tour can help keep things local). Most food stores don’t open until 10am.
If you’re after a quick bite, I love and recommend Japanese konbini (convenience stores – Family Mart, Lawson & 7-11) or street food. My guide to Japanese snacks details the popular and traditional morsels to try, plus exactly where to find them.
As it can be notoriously difficult for vegans and vegetarians in Japan, try this Vegan Night Foodie Tour.
Days 5 to 6: Day trips from Tokyo (including Mt Fuji)
Days 5 and 6 are for getting out of the city. Pick two day trips from my list below, or spend one night away: in Fujinomiya, my personal favourite overlooked place to see Mount Fuji without the crowds, or at an onsen in Atami or Shuzenji for the hot spring ryokan experience most people go to Hakone for. Leave your big bags at your Tokyo hotel and travel light.
Be sure to read my full guide to more underrated day trips from Tokyo, some of them I’m sure you haven’t heard of!
Select two separate day trips
- Yokohama 30 minutes from Tokyo
One of the easiest day trips from Tokyo! So many fun things to see and do, such as the Cup Noodles Museum, Japan’s largest Chinatown, Minato Mirai and beautiful harbour view parks. Read my full guide to things to do in Yokohama for more. - Kawagoe 30mins from Tokyo
If you love preserved Edo Period architecture, you’ll adore Kawagoe! Complete with old-world bell tower, stunning Hikawa Shrine, a laneway full of cheap candies and a riverbed of cherry blossoms in spring, it’s one not to miss! My Kawagoe day trip itinerary has all the details and is lovely during cherry blossom season. - Hakone 75 mins from Tokyo
TIP: For 2026, due to the crowds Hakone is “out” as recommendation from me. If it’s onsen you’re after in a quieter location, Shuzenji Onsen is a nice mini alternative to Hakone. Read my guide to tried-and-tested onsen ryokan & hotels in Izu Peninsula. Izu can be reached in around 2 hours from Tokyo and most tourists overlook it, but I adore it! More info about the Izu Peninsula here.
If you’d still like to go, the Hakone Free Pass covers the trains, cable car, ropeway, boat and buses around the Hakone Round Course.
NOTE: Some tourists now queue up to two hours for a photo at Hakone Shrine – I do not recommend this (there is this alternative in Izu with no one else if you’d prefer!)
- Fuji Five Lakes 2 hours from Tokyo
Including spots with an iconic Mt Fuji backdrop such as Lake Kawaguchiko, Chureito Pagoda, Gotemba Outlets, various temples and shrines, 8 sacred ponds of Oshino Hakkai and more. Due to the popularity of local buses and their limited schedules, I reviewed this Fuji Five Lakes day trip itinerary, and I also recommend these days tours around the Fuji Five Lakes.
TIP: Use fujisan.info to check the probability of seeing Fujisan on a given day before heading there! - Kamakura 50 mins from Tokyo
Japan’s ancient capital with many temples and shrines, Kamakura is popular for its famous giant Buddha and easy hikes nearby. Discover hidden caves, Hasedera Temple and enjoy a traditional lunch. Read my full one day Kamakura itinerary for more. - Nikko 2 hours from Tokyo
This stunning UNESCO World Heritage site is home to many temples and shrines (pictured below) nestled within nature’s finest scenery. There are 3 ways to get there using different discount passes, which I detail in my guide to planning a Nikko day trip itinerary. And don’t forget the lesser-known Edo Wonderland theme park (Edo was the capital city of Japan before Tokyo) and Tobu World Square here, with your favourite landmarks in miniature!
Overnight in Fujinomiya
Prefer to spend the night near Fujisan? Located on the mountain’s western edge, I’ve named Fujinomiya as the “unseen side of Mt Fuji.” Most tourists zip right past it on bullet trains between Tokyo and Kyoto, meaning fewer crowds for us – and some of the most incredible views, just look at the sunrise view from my room below!
It is possible to visit Fujinomiya in one day on this Fujinomiya famous food tour (+ bullet train from Tokyo). However, to make the most of your visit and increase your chances of seeing Mt Fuji it’s a good idea to spend the night. Read more my guide to what to do in Fujinomiya for all the details.
Or a night at an onsen in Atami or Shuzenji
Want the onsen experience without Hakone’s crowds? Izu is known by locals for its onsen resort towns and is only around 2 hours from Tokyo, yet most tourists overlook it.
- Atami: Easily reached with a station on the Tokaido shinkansen line (about 40 to 50 minutes from Tokyo) and a beautiful seaside vibe, Atami is known for onsen and is a popular weekend trip for locals. I stayed at TAOYA Atami, about 5 minutes’ drive from Atami Station and one of the more affordable Atami hotels.
- Shuzenji: An onsen town in central Izu, and a nice mini alternative to Hakone. I stayed at Laforet Shuzenji Sanshisuimei. Read my guide to Shuzenji Onsen.
TIP: For pros and cons of every onsen hotel and ryokan I’ve stayed in around Izu, read my guide to where to stay in the Izu Peninsula.
Days 7 to 10: Kyoto
Days 7 to 10 of my first-timer’s itinerary are beautiful Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital for over 1,000 years, dotted with over 2,000 temples and shrines. After my first visit in 2014 it quickly became my favourite city in the world, and I’ve been back in different seasons ever since.
These days a lot of first-timers see Kyoto through a wall of crowds and leave disappointed. It doesn’t have to be that way: in Kyoto, it’s all down to timing. Stay in Gion rather than near Kyoto Station, because day-trippers take over the Higashiyama area from 10am to 6pm, and staying right there means you see it before they arrive and after they leave.
Getting from Tokyo to Kyoto
2 hours 20 minutes one way from Tokyo Shinagawa station on Nozomi shinkansen. With a Japan Rail Pass, take the slightly slower Hikari at no extra cost, as the Nozomi needs an extra ticket for pass holders.
Day 7: Arrive, then Gion by lantern light
Why: you’ll arrive in the afternoon, so use it to get your bearings and see Gion’s most famous spots after the day-trippers have gone.
Afternoon: Bullet train from Tokyo (details above). Look up at Kyoto Tower as you leave the station’s northern exits, then take a taxi to your hotel in Gion. It’s the easiest way with luggage, and as a rule of thumb the fare in yen is about 100 times the minutes. Skip the buses: they’re crowded, and I’ve never needed one in Kyoto.
Evening: Stroll across Sanjo Ohashi Bridge at dusk, then walk east along Shijo-dori, one of my favourite evening walks in Kyoto, all the way to Yasaka Shrine (about 15 minutes). I’ve visited it in the morning, afternoon and evening, and evening is my favourite: fewer crowds and breathtaking illuminations. Finish with a short walk to Shirakawa-minami-dori, considered one of the most beautiful streets in Asia, by the little Tatsumi Bridge. For dinner, walk back across the river to Pontocho and sit at the bar at Manzara-Tei and watch the chefs work their magic.
SKIP: Nishiki Market tonight. It’s become quite touristy and caters to foreign visitors, so I prefer the eateries around Sanjo Station.
DON’T MISS: Yasaka Shrine lit up after dark.
NOTE: The local government has closed a few private streets in Gion in response to tourists harassing geisha. It’s only select streets, not the whole neighbourhood. My guide to the Gion tourist ban has what you need to know.
Day 8: Central Kyoto, before the crowds
Why: Higashiyama is Kyoto at its most beautiful, and its most crowded from 10am. From Gion you’ll be there before anyone else.
Morning: Today is all on foot from Gion. Walk the quiet slopes of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka before 8am. They’re two of Kyoto’s best-preserved streets (even the powerlines are buried), and it’s the time to photograph Yasaka Pagoda without the crowds. Continue a few minutes up the hill to Kiyomizu-dera (¥500) for the view from its huge wooden stage, built without a single nail, and look out for Jishu-jinja, the shrine of love and matchmaking hiding in plain sight within the temple grounds. It’s been closed for a full rebuild since 2022, with no reopening date yet, so its famous “love stones” are out of reach for now.
Afternoon: Walk back down to Yasaka Koshindo, a few minutes from Yasaka Pagoda in the quiet backstreets, covered in thousands of colourful kukurizaru “monkeys” (it’s in a residential area, so keep your voice down). Then stroll about 15 minutes downhill to Kennin-ji, Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, where two dragons are painted across the ceiling of the main hall: one of the most impressive things I’ve seen in Kyoto. Finish with a 10 to 15 minute walk back up to Kodai-ji and leave along Nene’s Path, a tranquil bamboo grove you’ll have practically to yourself, my uncrowded alternative to Arashiyama.
Evening: Nene’s Path brings you down to Maruyama Park, then treat yourself to dinner with a maiko, one of my favourite experiences in Japan ever (read my review), or a traditional tea ceremony with a geisha.
SKIP: Coming back to Sannenzaka later in the day, when it’s so crowded it’s hard to even get into the shops. Buy your souvenirs in the morning.
DON’T MISS: The dragon ceiling at Kennin-ji.
Day 9: Northern Kyoto, bamboo, moss and the Golden Pavilion
Why: two of the Big 4 are out here, so start early at one and finish late at the other, with two hidden gems most people miss in between.
Morning: Take the train out to Arashiyama (or a taxi to beat the first crowds) for the Bamboo Grove first thing. It’s spectacular but crowded, which is why you’ll only come here today, when you’re exploring the wider area. Then walk (about 40 minutes: it looked closer on the map, I swear!) or cycle to Gio-ji’s moss gardens, which you’ll likely have to yourself, and walk on to Adashino Nembutsu-ji, about 10 minutes away. Each stone there remembers someone who died without next of kin, and I was so touched by this beautiful idea.
Afternoon: Take a taxi to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion (¥500, about 20 minutes away), and arrive in the late afternoon: on my late afternoon visit it wasn’t crowded at all. Don’t leave without browsing the gift shop’s hand-painted watercolours.
Evening: Taxi back into town and explore the narrow, lantern-lit alleyways of Pontocho, where you might spot a geisha. I loved this Kyoto bar hopping tour, where I tried a special rose sake I’d never have found on my own (read about it here).
SKIP: The Kyoto Imperial Palace. It’s an enormous complex of gravel paths, you can’t go inside the buildings, and the gardens are roped off.
DON’T MISS: Gio-ji’s moss gardens.
FLEX IT: Day 9 is your flexible day. Swap it for a day trip to Osaka, Nara or Himeji Castle (below). Prefer gardens to bamboo? Do eastern Kyoto instead: Nanzen-ji and its working 19th-century aqueduct, the Philosopher’s Path, and Ginkaku-ji, the Silver Pavilion (¥1,000), which in my opinion has more exquisite gardens than Kinkaku-ji and is one of my favourite temples in Kyoto. And if Kinkaku-ji isn’t calling you, swap it for Nijo Castle.
Day 10: Fushimi Inari at sunrise, then Hiroshima
Why: Kyoto’s most famous shrine is open 24 hours, so beat everyone there at sunrise and still be in Hiroshima for the afternoon.
Morning: Check out early, leave your bags in a coin locker at Kyoto Station, and take the JR Nara Line two stops to Inari Station, right at the shrine’s entrance. Be at Fushimi Inari Taisha by 6 to 7am, before the day-trippers arrive. The thousands of vermilion torii weave up sacred Mt Inari, and most visitors stay crowded near the start for photos, so keep climbing and explore the smaller shrines on the mountainside. Be warned: the sign at the start is NOT to scale, and the summit takes 2 to 3 hours. Afterwards it’s the same two stops back to Kyoto Station (about 5 minutes) for your bags and the bullet train to Hiroshima.
SKIP: Fushimi Inari mid-morning, when the first gates are shoulder to shoulder.
DON’T MISS: The quiet smaller shrines higher up the mountain.
FLEX IT: Not an early bird? This Fushimi Inari hidden hike with a Kyoto local takes a secret trail up the mountain during the day, past another bamboo grove most tourists don’t know about. I loved it: read my Fushimi Inari hike review for what to expect.
TIP: Got longer in Kyoto? My 4 day Kyoto itinerary adds Daigo-ji, Tofuku-ji and more, and my guide to Kyoto’s hidden gems has even more places without the crowds.
Where to eat in Kyoto
I love the random small eateries in Gion’s alleyways, usually just Google-ing for what I feel like at the time. But I can recommend Manzara-Tei Pontochoen restaurant in Pontocho.
I’ve taken this Kyoto night tour and was able to enjoy hidden bars in the Pontocho area. On the tour, I even got to sample a special “rose sake” that I wouldn’t have been able to find by myself, read about it here! Nishiki Market is popular with locals and tourists and is therefore crowded.
It’s also possible to do a cooking class, read my ramen-making experience here, while others combine traditional Kyoto cooking classes and tea ceremonies. Some allow guests to dress up in kimono.
You can pre-book a small group tour in advance to learn more about culture from a local guide:
- Enjoy a special evening with a maiko (trainee geisha) in Gion! This was one of my favourite experiences in Japan ever. Read my review of dinner with a maiko in Kyoto, and check availability and book here →
- What better place to have breakfast than in the “Kitchen of Kyoto” on a Nishiki Market Breakfast tour →
- Explore the mysterious laneways of Gion, enjoy hidden eateries (and maybe may spot a geisha or two) on a Kyoto night foodie tour →
- Experience a traditional Gion & Kaiseki Kyoto Food Tour →
- Enjoy a Kyoto Nishiki Market Tour with Lunch →
- Explore the historical centre of the city on a Kyoto Casual Pontocho Evening Food Tour →
- Learn about Japan’s national beverage on a Kyoto Sake Brewery Tour With Lunch →
- Have a blast on a Kyoto Luxury Sake, Whiskey & Cocktail Night Tour →
- Take a day trip to experience a Matcha Kyoto Green Tea Tour Uji → (read my review in my guide to things to do in Uji and itinerary for an Uji day trip).
Advance tickets for activities in Kyoto
Check out “Gear,” an incredible non-verbal performance exclusive to Kyoto. The characters really come to life and tell a story through music, magic tricks, various choreography routines and colourful lighting. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
I also highly recommend my traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto with a geisha experience, I learnt so much about the history and culture surrounding tea from her. More Kyoto experiences include:
- Dinner with a maiko (apprentice geisha) →
- Forge your own knife with a master swordsmith → (or similar traditional cultural experiences here)
- Matcha foodie day trip to Uji →
- Arashiyama Sagano Romantic Train tickets →
- Historical 4 hour city cycling tour →
- Fu Fu No Yu Onsen entry tickets (indoor & outdoor hot springs) →
- Kimono rental with optional photoshoot →
- Kyoto International Manga Museum tickets →
- Arashiyama rickshaw tour →
Optional: Day trip from Kyoto to Osaka
Known as the “Kitchen of Japan,” you can literally eat and shop until you drop in Osaka! Prepare for all your senses to be delighted in this city, from the aromas of sizzling takoyaki to the dizzying sounds of Pachinko parlours and bright neon signs assaulting your eyes.
Osaka’s origins are that of a merchant city rather than samurai, so be sure to stand on the RIGHT side of escalators instead of left (like most of the country)!
With 3 nights in Kyoto, swap one of the Kyoto days above for a day trip to Osaka, Nara or Himeji Castle.
Getting from Kyoto to Osaka
29 minutes from Kyoto Station to Osaka Station on the JR Special Rapid (around ¥580 one way), or about 15 minutes to Shin-Osaka by shinkansen. The Special Rapid is covered by the Japan Rail Pass if you have one, and so are the Hikari and Kodama shinkansen.
Where to eat in Osaka
World famous for its delicious street food, no Osaka trip would be complete without trying as much as possible! Kuromon Ichiba Market is popular with visitors and locals alike, or you can fish for your own dinner at Zauo Restaurant.
To avoid the crowds along Dotonbori on my second visit, I personally enjoyed eating my way around the Shinsekai neighbourhood with a local to show me the hidden spots I would never have found on my own. This unique and retro area of Osaka was mostly spared during the war, with some original buildings still dotted throughout.
Read my review of the best Osaka street food according to locals or book your own foodie tours with friendly local guides:
- Osaka Shinsekai Street Food Tour – Evening →
- Daytime Street Food Tour in Shinsekai →
- Daytime Foodie Tour in Dotonbori →
- Osaka Night Bar Hopping and Food Tour in Namba →
- Find more experiences in Osaka here.
Ideas for things to do in Osaka
TIP: On a day trip, start at Osaka Castle in the morning, make your way to Dotonbori, Hozen-ji Yokocho and Namba Shrine, then finish in Shinsekai in the late afternoon. Be sure to check out my in-depth Osaka itinerary for more details than I’ve listed here.
- See the famous Glico Man over the river from Dotonbori 道頓堀, keep an eye out out for artistic drain covers (pictured below), be amazed at all the shops and how meticulously the products are arranged.
- Spend the day at Osaka Castle Museum 大阪城, check out the 360º view from the observation deck and wander the beautiful grounds. During February, the peach and plum grove behind the castle is a great alternative to the overcrowded cherry blossoms of late March. Don’t miss the Time Capsule out front to be opened in the year 5000!
- Embrace the foodie scene: The Japanese phrase kuidaore (eat ‘til you drop) is well known in Osaka as you can literally do just that! Some great places to start your foodie adventure are Shinsaibashi-suji Arcade and Kuromon Ichiba Market.
- Find Hozen-ji Yokocho: An Osaka hidden gem buried away in the quiet backstreets along with the mossy statue of Mizukake Fudo.
- Visit the giant lion’s head at Namba Shrine.
- In the late afternoon, head to the retro Shinsekai or America-mura neighbourhoods. Shinsekai dates back to the 1930’s and was known as the “New World” to showcase European architecture to Japanese locals at the time.
Optional: Day trip from Kyoto to Nara
A Kyoto to Nara day trip is simple and fun! Holding a great historical significance to the country, Nara 奈良 was Japan’s first permanent capital in 710 AD. The city was heavily influenced by Buddhism, with many structures reflecting this.
Deer are believed to be messengers to the gods, and roam freely around the city. To me, Nara has a spiritual aura that is not found in many other places, I just adore exploring in the late afternoon during the “golden hour!”
- Kyoto Station to Nara: 35 mins on limited express Kintetsu train to Kintestu Nara Station (closer to the Nara Deer Park), or 45mins to JR Nara Station.
- Osaka Namba Station to Nara: 50 mins on limited express Kintetsu train to Kintestu Nara Station, or 45mins to JR Nara Station.
- TIP: If using the Kintestu line for your Nara 1 day itinerary, you may need to pay cash for the Limited Express portion of your ticket on board if using a Suica card to pass through the ticket gates. A member of staff will pass through to check tickets and you can pay a few yen in coins.
Ideas for things to do in Nara
TIP: My detailed Nara one day itinerary from Osaka or Kyoto covers the below locations and more in further detail, and includes plenty of travel tips from my two visits.
- Todai-ji Temple 東大寺, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest wooden structure in the world. Be amazed by the giant bronze Buddha and see if you’re small enough to fit through the pillar with a hole the size of Buddha’s nostril for good luck!
- Yoshiki-en Gardens 吉城園 are a breathtaking world of moss and leafy surrounds.
- Sarusawa Pond Park & Ukimido Pond for lovely views with old structures as backdrops.
- Naramachi old town with its interesting English-focused Naramachi Museum.
- Todai-ji Nigatsu-do 二月堂 for lovely panoramic views over Nara (especially at sundown!)
- Kasuga-Taisha Shrine 春日大社 for 3,000 stone lanterns and golden suspended lanterns. It’s Nara’s most celebrated shrine, with a winter fire festival held in January.
- Kofuku-ji 興福寺, family temple of the Fujiwara clan and some of the oldest structures in Nara.
TIP: For more day trip locations nearby that aren’t Universal Studios, check my detailed guide to inspiring day trips from Kyoto or Osaka (including a day trip to Uji, Himeji, Kobe and more) that covers popular destinations and alternatives to crowded spots.
Optional: Day trip from Kyoto to Himeji Castle
Of all the castles I’ve visited in Japan, Himeji Castle 姫路城 is one of the best examples, and a national treasure. It’s known as the “White Heron” for the way it appears to soar above the city from its hilltop. Most Japanese castles have been destroyed by war or fire and rebuilt, but Himeji has survived over 400 years of earthquakes and natural disasters to be one of the few original castles left in the country. That’s so special!
- Getting there: About 45 minutes from Kyoto Station by shinkansen, or around 1 hour 30 minutes on the cheaper JR Special Rapid (both covered by the Japan Rail Pass, Hikari only on the shinkansen). The castle is about a 15 to 20 minute walk from Himeji Station.
- Cost: ¥2,500 for adults since March 2026, free for under 18s. Open 9am to 5pm, last entry 4pm.
TIP: Himeji also features in my 3 weeks in Japan itinerary, if you have a little longer.
Days 10 to 12: Hiroshima
In my opinion, everyone should visit Hiroshima at least once if given the chance. Being a history nerd, I was so interested to learn survivors’ stories and to see how this city recovered after the fateful blast in August 1945.
To be completely honest, if the Atomic Bomb Dome wasn’t sitting centre stage as a reminder of the past, you would never guess the atrocity that happened here more than eighty years ago.
Aside from its fateful history, Hiroshima is one of the most beautiful southern Japan cities and is worth spending a few nights to explore beyond the Peace Park.
Getting from Kyoto to Hiroshima
1 hour 40 minutes from Kyoto Station on Nozomi shinkansen. With a Japan Rail Pass, take the slightly slower Hikari at no extra cost, as the Nozomi needs an extra ticket for pass holders.
Day 10, continued: Hiroshima’s Peace Park
Why: you’ll arrive around lunchtime, and the Peace Park’s outdoor monuments are free and a few minutes’ walk from each other, so you can see them properly before dinner.
Afternoon: From Hiroshima Station, take a short taxi ride to your hotel. All three I recommend are within walking distance of the Peace Park, and from here you won’t need much transport at all. Walk to the A-Bomb Dome, one of the few buildings left standing because the bomb detonated almost directly above it. Then cross the street behind it to find Jizoson, a Jizo statue with an eerie nuclear shadow around its base, and walk two streets on to the Hypocenter Plaque, the exact spot the bomb exploded above. Back by the Dome, look for the boulder-shaped memorial covered in water bottles, left for the victims who couldn’t get water in their final moments. Cross Motoyasu Bridge into the Peace Park for the Children’s Peace Monument and its thousands of paper cranes (look underneath the archway for a golden crane hanging from a bell), the Flame of Peace, and the Cenotaph, perfectly lined up with the Dome behind it. Don’t miss the Phoenix Trees that survived the blast, their trunks hollowed by the heat.
Evening: Stroll along the Motoyasu-gawa River, where the Dome and the monuments are lit up after dark, then walk about 15 to 20 minutes east along Hondori Arcade to Okonomimura in Shintenchi for Hiroshima’s famous okonomiyaki (more below). It really comes alive at night! Or laugh yourself silly on a Hiroshima bar hopping tour with a local.
SKIP: Rushing through. It’s easy to miss the small details that have a large impact if you rush around checking things off a list.
DON’T MISS: Jizoson and its nuclear shadow, a gem hiding in plain sight that you may not find in guidebooks.
Day 11: Miyajima, the island of the floating torii
Why: Miyajima deserves a full day, and the direct ferry from the Peace Park gets you there without a trip back to the station.
Morning: Walk to the Motoyasubashi Pier beside the A-Bomb Dome for the Aquanet World Heritage Sea Route ferry (about 45 minutes, ¥4,400 return, not covered by the JR Pass, plus Miyajima’s ¥100 visitor tax). No booking needed, but choose your return time when you buy, as the afternoon ferries sell out. Check the tide times first: at high tide the Grand Torii appears to float, and at low tide you can walk right underneath it. From the pier, walk along the waterfront to Itsukushima Shrine (¥300), 20 wooden buildings joined by boardwalks over the water. Everyone queues on the pier for a photo with the torii, but stand a little to the side and you’ll get almost the same picture.
Afternoon: Wander Omotesando Street for souvenirs (Miyajima is one of my favourite places in Japan for them) and try momiji-manju, little maple-leaf cakes filled with red bean or, my favourite, vanilla custard. Keep an eye on the sacred deer: they’ll go after your bags and maps. Then walk up through Momiji-dani Park to the ropeway (¥2,000 return, 9am to 4pm) for the views from Mt Misen, all the way back to Hiroshima. On your way down, visit Daisho-in for its garden of jizo in colourful hats and Henjo Cave, its ceiling covered in glowing lanterns, then Taho-to, the five-storey pagoda.
Evening: Catch your ferry back to the Peace Park, then grab late-night snacks at Don Quijote, right next to the Washington Hotel: Kit Kats in quirky flavours and Coolish ice cream are my picks.
TIP: Bring enough cash. To my knowledge there are only two ATMs on the whole island. And if the ropeway is closed (it was on two of my three visits), don’t try the hike on a whim: I gave up 30 minutes into the 2.5 hour climb and enjoyed the view from Satomichaya Observatory instead.
SKIP: The JR ferry route, unless you’re using your JR Pass. With the tram, train and ferry it’s almost 3 hours return, compared with the direct ferry from the Peace Park.
DON’T MISS: Henjo Cave at Daisho-in, lit by glowing lanterns.
FLEX IT: Prefer a local to show you the island? This Miyajima half-day walking tour with a local guide (about 5.5 hours, with shrine and temple entry and lunch at a local temple included) covers Itsukushima Shrine, Daisho-in and the five-storey pagoda. It meets at JR Miyajimaguchi Station, so take the train and JR ferry that day instead. My Hiroshima to Miyajima day trip guide compares every ferry option. Already been to Miyajima? Take a day trip to Onomichi, an old seaside town known for temples, ramen and cats.
Day 12: The Peace Memorial Museum, then Nagoya
Why: the museum is the most confronting part of Hiroshima, so give it a fresh morning before the bullet train.
Morning: Be at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum (¥200) when it opens. Some people find the displays upsetting, but I believe it’s so important to see. Look out for a rusty child’s tricycle that survived the blast and ceramic bowls fused together by the heat. Then walk across the park to the National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims, one of the most well thought out memorials I’ve ever visited, with a soil sample showing 400 years of the city’s history and the blackened layer left by the bomb. Bring tissues. Afterwards, check out and take a taxi to Hiroshima Station for the bullet train to Nagoya (details below).
DON’T MISS: The National Peace Memorial Hall, and its fountain shaped like a clock stopped at 8:15.
FLEX IT: Rather have a guide? A Hiroshima walking tour with a local, lunch included, explains the sights in more detail (see more local tours in Hiroshima). And for more ideas, see my meaningful and fun things to do in Hiroshima.
Where to eat in Hiroshima
Plenty of restaurants to choose from along the Hon-dori. Try the local okonomiyaki (savoury pancake), at Okonomimura, a four-storey building packed with okonomiyaki eateries! You can’t really go wrong in here as each restaurant is its own business, specialising in cooking this dish their own way.
I also enjoyed sampling Japan’s famous soufflé pancakes at Happy Pancake (and I didn’t have to wait in line).
Want to discover more of the hidden eateries and drinking spots? For an authentic Japanese experience, you can take a Hiroshima bar hopping tour with a small group led by a local, or a best of Hiroshima foodie tour. Or even take a “Sake Town” tour in Saijo to learn more about Japanese food, culture and even make some new friends along the way!
Days 12 to 14: Nagoya
Nagoya is often overlooked in favour of Kyoto and Osaka, and it even gets a bit of a bad rap from locals. When I told a Japanese lady from Nagoya I wanted to visit, she laughed and asked me genuinely, “But why? There is nothing there.”
Much of the city was destroyed by air raids in WWII, so on the surface it can look like any other Japanese city. Scratch beneath the surface, though, and you’ll find a stunning palace, a pocket of Edo-era streets, one of Japan’s biggest foodie scenes and hardly any crowds. I’ve now visited twice, including a Legoland trip with my family, and it took my breath away both times.
It also sits right on the shinkansen line between Hiroshima and Tokyo, which makes it the perfect last stop before heading back to the capital.
TIP: Read why I think Nagoya is worth visiting for more details than I’ve listed here.
Getting from Hiroshima to Nagoya
About 2 hours 15 minutes from Hiroshima on Nozomi shinkansen. With a Japan Rail Pass, take a Hikari or Sakura to Shin-Osaka and change to a Hikari for Nagoya, as the Nozomi needs an extra ticket for pass holders.
Day 12, continued: Hommaru Palace and Edo-era Nagoya
Why: Hommaru Palace has last entry at 4pm, so head straight there, then wander the old streets as the light fades.
Afternoon: Drop your bags and take the Meijo subway line to Shiyakusho Station for Nagoya Castle (¥1,000 since October 2026). You can’t go inside the castle tower, but the reconstructed Hommaru Palace caught me by complete surprise and was the absolute highlight of Nagoya for me: intricate wooden carvings, painted screens, decorated ceilings and even nightingale floors. Unlike Nijo Castle in Kyoto, you can take photos (no flash). You’ll take your shoes off inside, and free lockers are provided. Grab a snack on Kinshachi Yokocho, by the main gate, then take a short taxi west to Shikemichi, a pocket of quiet laneways and dark wooden buildings that miraculously escaped the WWII firebombing. At its northern end you’ll walk straight into Endoji Shotengai, a covered shopping street with roots dating back to 1612.
Evening: Walk south along the Hori River to Nayabashi Bridge, decorated with the crests of the three great unifiers of Japan and beautifully lit up at night. It’s about a 10 to 15 minute walk from Nagoya Station, so it’s easy to find dinner nearby: try hitsumabushi, grilled eel with rice eaten four ways (more Nagoya dishes below).
SKIP: The castle tower: it’s been closed since 2018 for a full wooden rebuild, so go straight to the palace.
DON’T MISS: Hommaru Palace.
Day 13: LEGOLAND, or Nagoya your way
Why: Legoland is far quieter than Tokyo Disney or Universal Studios Japan, so a full day here is a day of rides, not queues.
Morning and afternoon: Take the Aonami Line from Nagoya Station to Kinjo-futo (about 24 minutes), then walk a few minutes to LEGOLAND Japan. On my weekday visit, waits for rides were as little as 5 minutes, and the longest my group waited all day was 15 minutes. Don’t miss Miniland’s Japanese cityscapes made from Lego: they exceeded my expectations! Buy Legoland Japan tickets in advance here and check its opening calendar before you go, or read my Legoland Nagoya review.
Evening: Dinner is the best Japanese BBQ of my life, at Yakiniku Tokugawaen. My group arrived at around 5pm and didn’t need a reservation, and it caters to children. Afterwards, see Mirai Tower colourfully lit up in the city’s east.
DON’T MISS: Miniland at Legoland.
FLEX IT: No kids with you? The SCMaglev and Railway Park is right by the same station, and the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology is close to Nagoya Station (both in my one week in Japan itinerary). Or visit Osu Kannon, moved to Nagoya by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1612, and Sengen Shrine with its seven 300-year-old camphor trees. Craving countryside? Tokoname, a sleepy pottery town home to Japan’s largest lucky cat, is just 30 minutes by train.
Where to eat in Nagoya
Nagoya has one of the biggest foodie scenes in Japan, so much so that it has its own term, Nagoya meshi, for its regional dishes. One of the best places to try them is Kinshachi Yokocho, a street of traditional shops beside Nagoya Castle’s main gate. Why not be a little adventurous and try some of these local specialties?
- Hitsumabushi: Grilled eel with rice, eaten four ways in one.
- Miso nikomi udon: Thick noodles in a miso broth with egg.
- Miso katsu: Fried pork cutlet dripping in red miso sauce, served with cabbage and rice.
- Kishimen: Broad, flat noodles in a dashi-based broth.
TIP: Prefer wagyu whenever you get the chance, as I do? The best Japanese BBQ of my life is no longer in Tokyo, but Nagoya at Yakiniku Tokugawaen. My group arrived early at around 5pm and didn’t need a reservation. Exceptional service, English speaking staff and unbelievably delicious beef, and it even caters to children.
If you would rather not go it alone, try this evening sake tasting small group tour in Nagoya with a friendly local guide.
Day 14: Transit to Tokyo
I highly recommend arriving back in Tokyo at least one day before your flight home to allow a buffer for anything unforeseen, Japan is a land of natural disasters after all. It’s wise to factor in extra time for shinkansen delays due to snow, typhoons, earthquakes etc to not miss our international flight.
Once you arrive back in Tokyo from Nagoya, you can spend the day visiting a museum or an experience such as teamLab Borderless or Planets, revisiting a favourite neighbourhood, or exploring a new one in my Tokyo neighbourhood guide! Where will you choose?
TIP: Read my honest advice on if teamLab Borderless is worth it for you, from my two visits in the old vs new locations.
Getting back to Tokyo from Nagoya
1 hour 35 minutes from Nagoya Station on Nozomi shinkansen. With a Japan Rail Pass, take the slightly slower Hikari at no extra cost, as the Nozomi needs an extra ticket for pass holders.
TIP: Flying home in the afternoon? You could break the trip back from Nagoya with a night at an onsen in Atami (see days 5 to 6), then head to the airport the next day. Keep the night in Tokyo if your flight is in the morning.
Transit: Tokyo from/to Haneda or Narita Airports
I recommend flying into Haneda if it’s an option for you, as it’s closer to central Tokyo. Narita is actually located in Chiba Prefecture and is further away, but is a nice preserved town in itself if you need to spend a night there before or after a flight.
How to get to/from Tokyo via Haneda Airport
Haneda Airport <> Tokyo (Hamamatsuchō) via Tokyo Monorail, 15 minutes. Asakusa will take another 25 mins, while Shinjuku and Shibuya will add on another 30-40 mins.
TIP: Your IC/Suica Card will cover the cost of the monorail, too!
How to get to/from Tokyo via Narita Airport
Narita Airport <> Tokyo via Narita Express, approx. 1 hour.
TIP: An alternative is the Airport Limousine Bus, handy if it stops at or near your hotel, and you’re able to book tickets in advance. If you’re taking the Narita Express both ways, JR East’s N’EX Tokyo Round Trip Ticket (around ¥5,200 return, valid for 14 days) saves money. Find out more about Narita Airport Limousine tickets.
Money saving tips for Tokyo transport
The famed Japan Rail Pass does not pay off for this itinerary. I instead recommend purchasing individual tickets to save money. You can book these online in advance via SmartEx or Klook, at ticket machines in Japan or in person at a JR ticket office.
TIP: The Tokyo Subway Pass offers discounted travel rather than Suica (IC) Cards. Read my guide to train symbols in Japan Google Maps that easily breaks down the different types of transport cards, when to use each, and which is best for you.
Two weeks in Japan budget: How much does it cost?
To make things even easier for you, I’ve added up what this 2 week Japan itinerary costs per person, per day. Pick the budget or mid-range column (or mix and match), multiply by your number of days, and add your flights.
By all means, don’t take this as absolute gospel. Your preferences may differ to mine, and the exchange rate may alter a little, but feel free to use it as a ballpark figure. You can always spend more or less than this!
2 weeks in Japan daily budget per person
| Per person, per day | Budget | Mid-range |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation Twin share, averaged across all four cities. In Tokyo, a budget room is around USD 100 a night and a mid-range twin (the 3 to 4 star hotels I stay in) around USD 250. |
USD 50 ¥7,900 |
USD 100 ¥15,800 |
| Meals and incidentals Our approach: convenience store breakfast, a light lunch on the go and a sit-down dinner. Your mileage may vary! |
USD 27 ¥4,300 |
USD 43 ¥6,800 |
| Transport Bullet trains, day trips, Miyajima ferry and airport train spread over 14 days, plus about USD 12 a day on your Suica card in Tokyo. |
USD 39 ¥6,200 |
USD 39 ¥6,200 |
| Tickets Two temples, gardens, castles or museums a day. |
USD 6 ¥1,000 |
USD 13 ¥2,000 |
| Souvenirs and gifts Spending money for things to bring home. |
USD 6 ¥1,000 |
USD 13 ¥2,000 |
| Per day | USD 129 ¥20,400 |
USD 208 ¥32,800 |
| 14 days, per person Excluding flights |
USD 1,808 ¥285,600 |
USD 2,906 ¥459,200 |
| 14 days, for two Excluding flights |
USD 3,615 ¥571,200 |
USD 5,813 ¥918,400 |
BUDGET ROOMS: Check that a cheaper room is actually suitable before you book. Some are for one person only rather than twin share, and some business hotel rooms are smoking rooms. Do your research, or see my tried-and-tested hotel recommendations for where to stay in Tokyo and in each city above.
FAMILIES: Family rooms in Tokyo are hard to find, and sometimes we’ve had to book two adjoining rooms (or two on the same floor), with one parent and one child in each, which doubles the cost. Budget around USD 450 a night in Tokyo for a family of four. Elsewhere it can be easier: in Nagoya we had a lovely family room where we could all be together. See my tips for doing this itinerary with kids.
Flights: Budget these separately, as fares vary wildly depending on your airline, where you’re flying from, the season and how far ahead you book.
Not included: Paid tours and experiences (such as a food tour or dinner with a maiko), theme parks like Legoland, and anything you’d like to splurge on.
Tipping: You don’t need to budget for tips. Tipping isn’t part of the culture in Japan and is actively discouraged by locals, so staff will often politely hand it back.
NOTE: Prices checked in October 2026, with US dollar figures at US$1 = ¥158. Hotel prices in Japan have risen a lot in recent years. These are typical prices outside the peak seasons: during cherry blossom and autumn leaves, rooms cost more, so please check current rates for your dates.
Doing this 2 week Japan itinerary with kids
I’ve done Tokyo, Kyoto, Nagoya and Hiroshima (with a day trip to Miyajima) with my kids, and this route works well for families with a few changes:
- Swap Disney or Universal Studios for Legoland: Instead of Tokyo Disney or Universal Studios Japan, we went to Legoland Japan in Nagoya (days 12 to 14 above) for fewer crowds, and only waited in queues for about 5 to 15 mins per ride. Read my Legoland Nagoya review or buy Legoland Japan tickets in advance here.
- Book a room that fits everyone: Family rooms in Tokyo are hard to find, and sometimes we’ve had to book two adjoining rooms with one parent and one child in each, which doubles the cost. Elsewhere it’s easier: in Hiroshima, KIRO Hotel is ideal for this, and in Nagoya we had a lovely family room at Grand Base Hotel Chiyokura Nagoya where we could all be together.
- Easy meals: My go-to’s with kids are Kura Sushi and Saizeriya, and konbini (convenience stores) are great for a quick bite.
Things to keep in mind for your Japan two week itinerary
Busy periods and public holidays in Japan
Once you’ve locked in your flights for your two week trip to Japan, it’s wise to book accommodation well in advance to avoid disappointment during the expected busy travel periods. Note some accommodations only show availability 3-6 months in advance.
- New Year’s: This extends from just after Christmas to the first week of January. Expect a lot of store closures and bullet trains to be very crowded as people travel home from the cities to celebrate. And remember, some ATMs take a holiday break from 1st – 3rd January, too – they won’t dispense any cash during this time.
- Late March – mid-April is the popular cherry blossom season so plan in advance. Find out when is the best time to visit for cherry blossoms depending on the locations you wish to view with my spring in Japan guide. You can also work around these less popular yet beautiful spring flowers in Japan that aren’t cherry blossoms to avoid the main crowds.
- In late April – early May, Golden Week is the busiest time of year for travel in Japan, mainly from locals travelling around the country during these holidays. The holidays begin on 29th April and will run through to 5th May. Be prepared for crowds, or try to avoid this time as everyone in Japan is moving around and visiting their families over the break.
- Fall foliage: Another popular time to visit Japan when the Japanese maples turn red! The season ranges from late September in Hokkaido to early December in Kyoto and Tokyo.
- Silver Week: Occurs every five to six years when several Japanese holidays align in mid-September to create a 4-day weekend. The last one was in September 2026, and the next is expected in 2032.
- See the full list of public holidays in Japan.
Tickets for popular attractions
- Tickets for Shibuya Sky, Ghibli Museum private tour, Ginza Art Aquarium, Making of Harry Potter Studio Tour, Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea, are incredibly popular and often sell out. These and many more tickets can be purchased in advance online. Some need to be booked up to 8 weeks in advance, so be sure to take a look!
- The Sumo Tournament is only held in Tokyo three times per year (January, May & September) and may not coincide with your trip. You can opt to see the Sumo morning practice in their stables with a local guide instead.
2 weeks in Japan FAQs
Is 2 weeks enough time in Japan?
For first-timers, 2 weeks in Japan is a great introduction to this amazing country. It’s enough to see Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Nagoya, with day trips to Mt Fuji, Osaka, Nara, Himeji and Miyajima, and spending a few nights in each place saves moving your luggage every day. Although it may look like a lot, my partner and I never felt rushed.
How much does 2 weeks in Japan cost?
Following this itinerary, allow around USD 130 per person per day on a budget, or around USD 210 mid-range, excluding flights. That’s about USD 1,800 to 2,900 each for 2 weeks, covering hotels, meals, trains, entry tickets and souvenirs. See my full budget breakdown above.
Is the JR Pass worth it for 2 weeks in Japan?
Not for this itinerary. The Japan Rail Pass does not pay off for this route (prices increased in October 2023), and it doesn’t cover the fastest Nozomi trains without an extra ticket. I recommend buying individual tickets instead. You can book bullet train tickets in advance here.
When is the best time for a 2 week Japan trip?
Any time of year works, but plan around Japan’s busiest periods: New Year, cherry blossom season (late March to mid-April), Golden Week (29 April to 5 May) and the autumn leaves. If you’re travelling then, book accommodation well in advance. See my busy periods and public holidays list above.
Concluding my two weeks in Japan itinerary
So there you have it: my 2 weeks in Japan itinerary for first-timers! Heading straight from Hiroshima to Tokyo takes around 5 hours, so that’s the better part of a day gone, which is why this itinerary breaks up the journey home with a stop in Nagoya. This loop itinerary is the most efficient way to see all the main sights (and also wander off the beaten path) without backtracking or being short on time.
Although it may look like my partner and I crammed a lot when seeing Japan in 2 weeks, I can honestly say we never felt rushed. Being prepared allowed us to leisurely stroll between many attractions and enjoy taking our time uncovering the wonders that make this incredible country so unique.
Finally, why end in Tokyo? From my home of Australia at least, I personally find return flights from Tokyo cheaper than an open-jaw ticket flying home from Osaka, and this includes the bullet train back to Tokyo.
More expertly curated Japan guides
- Want to avoid crowds on and off the Golden Route completely? My itineraries for 10 days in Japan and one week in Japan‘s Tokai Region cover unique destinations overlooked by most foreign tourists.
- Curious to see where an extra week can take you? My Japan 3 week itinerary combines the Old and New Golden Routes.
- Planning a special occasion? My Japan honeymoon itinerary covers romantic spots in lesser-known destinations to help you avoid crowds.
- Thinking of a road trip? My detailed 7 day Kyushu itinerary covers sights overlooked by foreign tourists, utilising train and rental car, with the option to extend to 10 days.
- Explore overlooked areas with my 10 day Shikoku itinerary and Okinawa travel guide.
- Want all the facets of Japan in one overlooked spot between Tokyo and Kyoto? My one to 7 days Izu Peninsula itinerary ticks all the boxes.
- Find more places in Japan that are off the beaten path to avoid crowds.
- And if you’re also heading to Seoul, Busan and want some ideas for lesser-known gems, my 10 day South Korea itinerary is for you!
How are you going planning your 2 weeks in Japan? What are your thoughts on this Japan itinerary 14 days? Or do you have any questions about it? I’d LOVE to hear in the comments below.
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Until next time,
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Hi Alyse,
I am travelling to Japan for the first time with my 22 yr old son, who is studying in USA . I have lived in the Middle East all my life , travelled the world but never to Far East .
We are travelling for 15 days, mostly targeting Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. We have not decided on the internal itenarary yet. I would appreciate if you can share any tips on location where to stay , whether we book hotels or Airbnb, good places to eat as I am not a very seafood lover, although I love sushis and makis but I do not eat raw food.
Good places to shop , explore unique places, modes of travelling etc…
Also I believe language will be a problem.
Hi Nasima,
I kindly ask you take a read through this itinerary again, as I have all the answers to your questions already 🙂
In the itinerary I provided my recommendations for where to stay in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka as well as others that I have personally stayed in and enjoyed.
I’ve also provided a link to my article about why I personally don’t recommend Airbnb (under the “where to stay in Tokyo” section), but understand why it appeals to some.
In terms of where to eat, I’ve also listed suggestions in each city if you click through to the dedicated itineraries for Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. I’m not a fan of raw meats either so I tend to omit them from my recommendations.
And towards the end of the article have shared a link to my Japanese cheat sheet for first-time visitors.
Thanks and happy reading!
Hi, we will be travelling with two elderly age 66 and 69 years old. It is not feasible for us to move from one city or town too much. I think at most, Tokyo, Kyoto and one more city/town. Can you make some recommendations? Also, is it better to rent a car instead of taking the trains? We are prepared to take the shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto though. Thank you. Sandie
Hi Sandie, thanks for reading!
I’d suggest taking a look through my extensive Japan travel blog for more ideas that suit you.
In between Tokyo and Kyoto, I can recommend Nagoya (gateway to the Alps), or Fujinomiya for Mt Fuji.
I would not recommend renting a car in the major cities such as Tokyo or Kyoto for several reasons:
• Parking can be difficult to find, and you need to pay at most parking lots
• Can be stressful if you’re unfamiliar with Japanese road rules and you’re from a country that doesn’t drive on the left like Japan
• Tolls are quite expensive and can really add up between major cities.
Cars are better options for getting around more rural areas.
I hope that helps!
Hi, we are going to Japan during golden week (we found it after booking the flights). We are staying in Tokyo from 27 April to 5 May, when we are leaving to Kyoto. However, we are considering changing our plans and go to Nagano first (instead of Kyoto) to avoid crowds.
At the moment our itinerary will be:
– 8 days in Tokyo
– 4 days in Kyoto
– 4 days Road Trip between Kanazawa – Tacayama – Nagano
– 3 days in Tokyo before leaving Japan
My concern is travelling by train on May 5, I’m not sure what should be better, if going from Tokyo to Kyoto or if going from Tokyo to Nagano instead. Could you help me please? I’d appreciate it a lot.
Hi Camila, thanks for reading!
On May 5, most of the crowds would be heading back towards Tokyo. So as long as you’re travelling away from it, I think you will be fine.
Between heading out of Tokyo to Nagano or Kyoto, I’d choose Nagano as it isn’t as popular with tourists and has a much smaller local population than Kyoto.
Keep n mind there will still be crowds as spring is the most popular tie to visit Japan, but you’ve made the right choice spending Golden Week in Tokyo as much of Tokyo leaves Tokyo 🙂
Enjoy your trip!
Hi
Looked at your Japan blog which I found very interesting and informative. We are planning a three week trip to the east two weeks of which are in Japan and we are planning to stay in Tokyo for 4 nights and then a further 2 nights after going to Kyoto and Hiroshima. This is our first time and probably last as its for our 50th Anniversary so needs to be special. Looked at many areas ( very confused ) but your blog at least help me understand it a bit better. Look at numerous Hotels to !!! blimey what a mix. Having looked at your blog though we might try and book the Gate Hotel . Do you think that’s a good choice for a first and only time visit and should do you think we should book an alternative Hotel for the second stay. I am researching and booking the whole trip by myself for whole three weeks. Do you think that is over ambitious for a Japan trip or is it all easily worked out once your there as you make it sound quite daunting to visit. Thanks David
Hi David, thanks for your kind words – and Happy Anniversary! What a fantastic way to celebrate 🎉
Yes, The Gate Hotel will be absolutely beautiful for your stay in Tokyo. Even if you don’t book a room with a view of the SkyTree, you can view it from their rooftop and from the hotel lobby.
Asakusa is a great area for visitors who prefer to take things a little slower than the bustling vibe of Shibuya and Shinjuku, while still being well connected to the rest of the city and Haneda Airport.
If you have the chance to book a second hotel at the conclusion of your trip, it’s worth a try to compare areas!
And no, it’s absolutely not over ambitious to book everything yourself for 3 weeks. That’s exactly what I personally do and encourage my readers to do, too!
You can work things out on the go once you’re there, but I feel Japan is a destination you’ll get more out of the more you put in 😊
I hope that helps and you have a wonderful time in Japan!
Wow what an amazingly comprehensive travel guide! I really appreciate your effort and detailed information! This will make my trip to Japan so much easier, thank you ☺️
I’m delighted to hear that, Lulu! If you have any questions just let me know, thanks so much for following along 😃
Hello Alyse!
Thank you very much for the extremely well-made and detailed guide to a trip to Japan. We are definitely going to use it as a template for creating our own!
We do feel that moving from city to city that often might be a bit much for us. So, considering we are foodies and we would like to see a bit of nature as well during our trip, which destination would you remove from the trip? Osaka or Hiroshima?
Thank you very much!
Hi Aurelien, thank you for reading and following along!
If you are foodies and would like to see a bit of nature, hands down I’d personally remove Osaka and choose Hiroshima all day.
Hiroshima’s food and sake scene is fantastic (enough to rival Osaka!) and Hiroshima Prefecture in general is so beautiful: scenic islands, mountainsides, the deer and hikes on Miyajima just to name a few.
I do believe Hiroshima is a place everyone should visit at least once if given the chance. We can all learn so much from its tragic past, but it certainly is a symbol of resilience and hope for the future.
Thanks again for reading and I hope you have a wonderful time in Japan!
Hi Alyse,
I’m planning a 2-week trip next summer for my family for my daughter’s high school graduation present. She has been wanting to go to Japan forever and loves the Japanese culture. This itinerary is incredibly helpful! We’re limited on when we’re able to plan our visit and can go anywhere in June, July or early August 2024. When would you recommend? I’ve heard those aren’t the best months to visit due to weather/crowds. Thank you!
Hi Sophia, what a wonderful graduation present!
Okay so most people will tell you to avoid summer because it’s too hot, but “hot” is relative depending on where you live. I’ve written a whole article about what to expect during summer in Japan, too.
For me, I love summer in Japan as it doesn’t feel too different to home in Australia.
That said, here have been my experiences in each month:
• June is the start of the rainy season: Expect showers, warm days and cool nights where you may need a light cardigan. Always carry an umbrella! I personally love the hydrangeas everywhere at this time.
• July is much warmer, but the rain showers help cool things down. Temples and shrines offer a welcome respite to heat.
• August is probably the hottest month, in which it is an enjoyable time to head into the Alps as it’s cooler than popular cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.
Also take note that Japan’s summer school holidays begin around 20-21 July and end around August 21-30, so I would personally avoid this time as it can get very busy with local families travelling around.
Out of the three, I’d personally choose the beginning of June for fewer crowds overall 👍
I hope that helps and you have a wonderful time in Japan!
We are planning a family holiday 14 days at beginning of January 2024. I did see you mention a winter holiday was on your bucket list back in 2017 just wondering did you manage this and if so could advise if its is good time or not to visit or would it be better some other time of year. Are we going to miss out on a lot or will be limited on what we can do? We plan a week in Toyko and the remainder for the top 3 sites. Your blog is amazing, makes the plans so much easier at my end now.
Hi Esther! Thank you for following along all these years 🙌 Yes, I did enjoy a winter trip to Japan this year! It was everything I had dreamed of, if not even better ❄️
If possible I would advise to go during the second half of January. Early January around New Years is not only busy with foreign tourists coming to Japan over the Christmas holidays but a lot of things close down. During the second half of January for me, I barely encountered any crowds and got to enjoy usually super busy places like Kyoto with no crowds. I hope that helps!
If you have any questions please let me know, otheriwse my guide to Japan in winter has some specific tips for visiting during this time!
Hi Alyse!
My fiancee and I will be going to Japan for our honeymoon at the end of March 2024! I love your 2-week itinerary and plan to use it as the basis for our travel. However, we want to make Hakone an overnight stay and we would also like to fit a visit to Nikko somewhere in there. In your opinion, where is the best place to tweak the itinerary in order to fit that in? Thanks!
Hi Justin, that’s so exciting and congratulations!
For Nikko, it’s easy to do a day trip from Tokyo either at the beginning or end of your trip. For example, if you have 7 nights to allocate to Tokyo, you could split them up between the beginning and end of the trip and select one of those days to visit Nikko (try for a weekday if you can!)
For an overnight stay in Hakone, most people do this on the way from Tokyo to Kyoto or Osaka. It will take around 3 hours from Hakone to reach Kyoto or Osaka, so allow for this travel time in your planning.
I hope that helps and you have a wonderful honeymoon in Japan!
Hi Alyse,
My husband and I have flights booked to Japan from 9-26 March 2024. We live in Brisbane and it will be our first time to Japan itinerary. Your itinerary has been incredibly useful to help plan our trip, thank you! I read the Nozomi will be included in the rail pass from Oct 2023 (with a surcharge) so we are thinking of getting that. We are a little worried the gardens will be mostly barren as I read somewhere that the greenery doesn’t return until after the cherry blossoms bloom. Is this true?
Time in each place will be roughly:
Tokyo 7 nights (day trip to Mt Fuji)
Kyoto 5 nights
Osaka 4 nights
Hiroshima 1 night
What would be the best order to visit cities for greener gardens and chance of cherry blossoms? If Tokyo is first, should we stay a night or two in Tokyo at the end of our trip for proximity to the airport and garden viewing? I have been considering changing our flights to end of April to early May but that is also Golden Week and may be too busy for our liking. Plus the airline fees to reschedule will be 320 AUD. Any advice would be greatly appreciated 🙂
Hi Dee, thanks for being here!
Ahhh yes, the gardens are kind of barren throughout winter as I’ve discovered too. But the beauty of your dates is that things will be beginning to bloom then, you may catch the end of the plum blossoms in early March, and see early blooming Yaezakura cherry blossoms (before the main Yoshino cherry blossoms). Judging from the past few years’ sakura reports, my best guess is the Yoshino blossoms may hit their peak during the latter part of your trip!
I definitely agree about spending a few of your allocated days in Tokyo at the beginning and end of your trip for ease of getting to/from the airport without stress.
In terms of the order, I don’t think it will matter too much as the blossoms in your cities historically all come into bloom within a few days of each other. In 2023, Tokyo was called first on 14 March and Hiroshima was 19 March. They are best viewed/peak bloom about one week after first opening. So your dates are perfect, I wouldn’t be changing them if it were me 😊
You can view previous sakura reports here.
I hope that helps and you have a wonderful time in Japan for your first trip!