Visiting Japan for the first time is like stepping into a vibrant fusion of ancient traditions and futuristic innovation. From the serene beauty of its temples and gardens to the bustling streets of its metropolitan cities, Japan offers a variety of experiences.To help you make the most of your two weeks I have gathered all the information in this helpful Japan Itinerary, including a day by day breakdown with activities and more.
Are two weeks enough for Japan?
A two-week trip is perfect for experiencing Japan’s major highlights as a first-time visitor. This sample itinerary will have you based in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, with an optional stop in Hakone. From these cities, you can do numerous day trips. Use this as a guideline and feel free to customize the activities according to your preferences and travel style!
How to move around in Japan?
One thing you will notice in Japan is the fact, that there are no cars parking on the streets, which pretty much tells you everything about the best of transportation in Japan.
The best way to get around both between cities and within the cities are public transportation. But fear not, they are extremely reliable and with the bullet train sometimes even faster than by car.
Traveling between Cities
Japan’s railway system is operated by numerous companies, making it a bit challenging to figure out which ticket is valid for what. If you’re traveling between cities, you’ll start and end your journey at one of the main train stations where you can purchase tickets. There are vending machines everywhere, as well as ticket offices with English-speaking staff.
Traveling by Shinkansen (Bullet Train) is the fastest option but also the most expensive, and it might not always be worth it. Check if there are other trains running the same route. Sometimes you can save a significant amount for just an additional 20 minutes of travel time.
Travelling within the city
A Suica or Pasmo Card is a prepaid card that you can use for all public transportation. You can purchase these cards at nearly every train station. Alternatively, you can also get the digital version, link it to your bank account, and pay as you go.
Insider tip: There are also 12h, 24h and 72h tickets with unlimited rides in Tokyo. This offer is only valid for foreigners though and they will check your passport. Check this website for more information and the locations of the ticket offices.
Is the JR Pass worth it?
The short answer is: it depends! For this specific route shown below, single tickets are more affordable. The JR Pass is only cost-effective when traveling long distances in a short period. If you’re unsure about purchasing the JR Pass, visit this website where you can enter your Japan destinations, and it will calculate whether the pass is worth buying or not.
Traveling between Cities
Japans railway is operated by numerous companies, so it can be a bit of a challenge to figure out, which ticket is valid for what. If you’re traveling between cities, you’ll start and end your journey at one of the main train stations where you can also purchase your tickets. There are vending machine everywhere but also ticket offices with English speaking staff.
Traveling with the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) is the fastest but also the most expensive way but not always worth it! Make sure to see if there are also trains running that route. Sometimes you’re only paying a fraction of the price for 20 minutes more.
TOKYO
DAY 1 – 6: Tokyo and Mount Fuji
Day 1: Shibuya, Harajuku & Meiji Shrine
Use your jet lag and start your day early with a visit to the tranquil Meiji Shrine, nestled within a lush forested area, and take a peaceful stroll along its winding paths. Then, head to Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world, where you can witness the iconic scramble of Tokyo’s masses. Afterward, explore the trendy streets of Harajuku, known for its vibrant fashion scene and cute boutiques. Don’t miss Takeshita Street, an alley lined with shops selling unique clothing, accessories, and delicious street food.
Day 2: Shinjuku & Shibuya
Yes you’ve read that right! We are adding a second day for Shibuya. There is so much to do around this area and on day one you have covered the main sites. For day 2, we will add a little bit of fun and do some shopping around the area! Some popular shopping places are Tokyu Hands, Parco, Shibuya 109, MEGA Don Quijote and many more.
Once it gets dark, head over to Shinjuku’s Golden Gai, a district known for its tiny bars and nightlife. Another very popular spot to visit is Ovoid Yokocho, an alley where you find various food stalls. This place has become incredibly touristy and somewhat expensive, but if its your first time in Tokyo, definitely head over to this alley and decide for yourself if it was worth it.
Day 3: Asakusa & Akihabara
Begin your day with a visit to Asakusa, home to the iconic Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Explore the Nakamise-dori shopping street, lined with traditional shops selling souvenirs, snacks, and handicrafts. Then head to Akihabara, Tokyo’s electronic and Anime district, where you can browse through countless shops selling anime, manga, video games, and electronic gadgets. Dive into the vibrant subculture of Akihabara and enjoy a meal at a themed cafe, such as a maid cafe or a Gundam-themed restaurant.
Day 4: Ginza & TeamLab Borderless
Begin your day with an early morning visit to Tsukiji Market, the largest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world and get your breakfast there. Wander through the aisles filled with vendors selling fresh seafood, fruits and more.
After having your breakfast at Tsukiji Market head to Ginza, Tokyo’s upscale shopping district, to continue your exploration. Here, you can find both luxury boutiques as well as high street brands here. Make sure to visit the iconic 12 floor Uniqlo in Ginza!
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of TeamLab Borderless, an interactive digital art museum that pushes the boundaries of creativity and technology. Lose yourself in the enchanting landscapes of light, color, and sound as you wander through immersive installations.
Day 5: Your choice: Disneyland or DisneySea
Spend a full day at Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea, starting early to make the most of every moment! Tickets can be booked online in advance and during high season it is recommended to get a fast pass to the attractions and skip the lines.
Make sure to stay after sunset and enjoy the mesmerizing nighttime entertainment to bring your day to a spectacular close.
You can purchase your tickets on Klook here.
Day 6: Daytrip to Mount Fuji and Kawaguchiko
Spend a day visiting the famous Mount Fuji, Japan’s tallest peak and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
From Tokyo, you can easily book daytrips with this bus company here to Lake Kawaguchi. Make sure to check the weather forecast, as Mount Fuji is only visible on clear days. One ride is about 1.5h and it is suggested to get the earliest ride possible to beat the crowds.
Once there, wander down the famous Honcho Street, lined with charming shops and eateries. Don’t miss a visit to Lawson, where you can grab snacks or beverages while marveling at the breathtaking scenery. Be sure to make a stop at Chureito Pagoda, offering one of the most iconic and photogenic views of Mount Fuji against a backdrop of cherry blossoms or autumn foliage, depending on the season.
You can purchase the bus tickets directly from their website here.
HAKONE
DAY 7 – 8: Hakone Itinerary
How to get from Tokyo to Hakone
From Tokyo take a 45 min train ride to Hakone.
Consider purchasing a Hakone Pass. A ticket which grants you unlimited rides for the public transportion, including trains, cable cars, ropeways, and a pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi.
Purchase your Hakone Pass here.
Day 7: Exploring Hakone
One of Hakone’s most iconic attractions is the Hakone Ropeway, offering views of the surrounding mountains and Owakudani Valley. Be sure to sample kuro-tamago (black eggs) boiled in the hot springs. It is said to add years to your life according to local legend!
Explore the Hakone Open-Air Museum, home to an extensive collection of contemporary sculptures set amidst lush gardens and scenic vistas. Another activity is taking the Sightseeing Cruise across Lake Ashi, where you can capture postcard-perfect views of Mount Fuji.
Since Hakone is known for their hot springs (Onsen), consider staying overnight and experience the Japanese hospitality by staying in a Ryokan. A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn renowned for its hospitality, serene ambiance, and emphasis on relaxation. These establishments typically feature tatami-matted rooms furnished with low tables and futon bedding, creating a cozy and authentic atmosphere.
KYOTO
DAY 8 – 10: Kyoto Itinerary
How to get to Kyoto from Hakone
Hakone-Yumoto Station – Odawara Station via Hakonetozan Line (15 min.)
Odawara Station – Kyoto via Shinkansen (1:45 h.)
Day 8: Explore the historic Kyoto
Start your Kyoto Journey with a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of torii gates creating mesmerizing pathways through the forested hills. Make sure to arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Wear comfortable shoes since you will walk a lot!
Head to the Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka preserved streets. These pedestrian alleys are lined with traditional machiya houses, shops selling souvenirs and local crafts, and tea houses where you can experience a traditional tea ceremony.
End your day with a visit to Yasaka Shrine one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Kyoto, that is especially beautiful by night.
Day 9: Nature and Serenity in Arashiyama
Head to Arashiyama, a scenic district on the western outskirts of Kyoto. Begin your day by strolling through the famous Bamboo Grove.
Then take the Sagano Romantic Train that offers a picturesque train ride through the scenic Hozugawa River Valley. The railway line follows the course of the Hozugawa River, offering passengers stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape, including wooded hillsides, rocky cliffs, and the winding river below. One of the highlights of the Sagano Scenic Railway is the opportunity to ride in open-air, or “torokko,” train cars with no windows.
After the train ride, visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park, where you can observe Japanese macaques in their natural habitat and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from the mountaintop.
Day 10: Visit Temples and Gardens
Start your day by renting a traditional kimono or yukata from one of the many shops near Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Wander through the quaint streets of the Higashiyama District dressed in traditional attire, immersing yourself in Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.
Head to Nishiki Market, known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” to explore g fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional snacks. Make sure to try some street food favorites like skewered yakitori, grilled seafood, or handmade mochi.
After your lunch break, make your way to Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), a stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf. Take in the breathtaking beauty of the temple and its shimmering reflection in the tranquil pond.Day 11 – 14: Osaka Itinerary
OSAKA & NARA
Day 11 – 14 Osaka Itinerary including a day trip to Nara
How to get from Kyoto to Osaka
Option 1 for JR Pass Holders: take a JR train from Kyoto Station to Osaka Station (15-30 minutes)
Option 2: Another option is to take a Hankyu Railway train from Kyoto Station to one of the stations in Osaka, such as Umeda or Osaka-umeda. The travel time is similar to JR trains, and Hankyu Railway offers rapid express trains for faster service.
Day 11: Shopping in Osaka
Spend the afternoon shopping in Shinsaibashi, one of Osaka’s premier shopping districts, known for its wide range of stores selling fashion, electronics, souvenirs, and more. Make sure to also visit the nearby America Mura (American Village). America Mura is famous for its diverse clothing boutiques, vintage stores, and second-hand shops. It’s a hotspot for finding unique fashion items and streetwear.
By night head over to Dotonbori district, known for its vibrant atmosphere, neon signs, and street food stalls. Experience Osaka’s culinary scene by having dinner at one of the many restaurants in Dotonbori or grab Snacks at one of the many food stalls.
Day 12: Daytrip to Nara
Take a train from Osaka to Nara (approximately 45 minutes with the JR pass).
Start your day with a visit to Nara Park, home to hundreds of freely roaming deer considered sacred messengers of the gods in Shinto tradition. Purchase some deer crackers to feed the deer and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Visit the Todai-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most famous and historically significant temples, home to the Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden), the largest wooden building in the world. Don’t forget to visit the famous Mochi Show at Nakatanidou and try some of the freshly made mochi!
Return to Osaka in the late afternoon / early evening.
Day 13: Historical and traditional Osaka
Start your day by visiting Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. Explore the castle grounds, museum, and enjoy panoramic views from the top floor.
After your visit head over to Namba and visit the Yasaka Shrine. The architecture of Namba Yasaka Shrine follows traditional Japanese Shinto design, with vermilion-lacquered wooden structures, sacred torii gates, and stone lanterns. One notable feature of the shrine is its massive lion-shaped guardian deity (shishi), which is said to ward off evil spirits.
From Namba take the train to DenDen Town, Osaka’s electronics and anime district. Browse the numerous shops selling manga, video games, electronics, and anime merchandise. Don’t miss visiting Nipponbashi Bridge, the symbolic entrance to Denden Town.
Head to Shinsekai, a vibrant and retro neighborhood known for its iconic Tsutenkaku Tower and nostalgic atmosphere.
For your last meal, head over to one of the many izakayas (Japanese pubs) or traditional restaurants in the area, trying classic Osaka dishes like kushikatsu or negiyaki (grilled savory pancakes).
Day 14: Fly back Home
Chances are high that your flight will depart from Haneda or Narita Airport from Tokyo. From Osaka you can take the JR train to Tokyo that will bring you back to Tokyo in around 3.5h. Alternatively you could book a flight from the nearby Kansai Airport (approximately 1.15h by train)
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