20 Days In Japan
Planning a trip to Japan can be daunting. There’s so much to see and do it can be difficult to find a starting place. We’ve created this 20 day itinerary for your first visit to Japan including the highlights and some hidden gems!
In this 20 day itinerary, we'll guide you through each destination, offering tips on transportation, accommodation, activities, and cuisine. Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich culture and diverse landscapes of Japan. Let's begin this unforgettable adventure!
Be sure to read our guide Everything You Need To Know About Japan.
This itinerary is organized in a logistical order that makes sense for travel within Japan. Here's a breakdown:
1. Tokyo: Starting your journey in Tokyo, which is a major transportation hub and typically the entry point for international travelers to Japan.
2. Mt. Fuji: From Tokyo, it's convenient to travel to Mt. Fuji, which is located to the west Tokyo.
3. Kanazawa: Moving westward, you can travel from Mt. Fuji to Kanazawa, which is located on the western coast of Japan's main island, Honshu. Kanazawa is easily accessible by train and offers a rich cultural experience.
4. Kyoto: Continuing southward, you can travel from Kanazawa to Kyoto, which is a short train ride away. Kyoto is a cultural treasure trove with numerous temples, shrines, and traditional districts. We’ve also included a day trip to Nara to experience the famous bowing deer.
7. Osaka: The food capital of Japan, Osaka boasts some of the most delicious cuisine and exciting nightlife! We’ve also included a trip to Universal Studios Japan to experience Super Nintendo World.
Day 1-4: Tokyo
How to Get There:
Tokyo is served by two main airports: Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND). From either airport, you can take trains, buses, or taxis to reach the city center.
Where to Stay:
1. Shibuya: Known for its bustling atmosphere, shopping centers, and vibrant nightlife.
2. Shinjuku: A major commercial and entertainment hub, famous for its skyscrapers and dining options.
3. Asakusa: Home to the historic Senso-ji Temple and traditional Japanese streets. This is where we stayed and found Apa hotels to be fairly affordable, clean and safe.
4. Ginza: Renowned for its upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment venues.
Highlights:
Shibuya Crossing
Kura Revolving Sushi
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Robot Restaurant
Senso-ji Temple
Golden Gai
Tokyo Skytree
Tsukiji Outer Market
Memory Lane (Omoide Yokocho)
Soba Noodles at Kameya (located in Memory Lane)
3D Cat
Claw machine games in Akihabara
Day 1:
Start the day early with a visit to Tsukiji Outer Market, experiencing the bustling atmosphere and sampling fresh seafood.
Adjacent to the market, visit Tsukiji Honganji Temple, known for its unique architectural style.
Head to Akihabara, easily accessible by subway, to immerse yourself in Tokyo's electronics and otaku culture. Be sure to have som Yen so you can play the endless amount of claw machine games!
Finish the day with dinner in Asakusa, offering traditional izakayas and street food stalls, accessible by subway from Akihabara.
Day 2:
Begin the day early at Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, one of Tokyo's oldest and most significant temples.
Explore the lively Nakamise Shopping Street leading to Senso-ji Temple, filled with souvenir shops and street food stalls. There are plenty of photo opps and delicious street food here.
After visiting Senso-ji, take a short train ride to Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views of the city.
Adjacent to Tokyo Skytree, visit Sumida Aquarium to explore marine life from the Sumida River.
Head to Ueno Park for the afternoon, home to museums, temples, and a zoo, accessible by subway from Sumida Aquarium.
Finish the day with shopping and street food at Ameya-Yokocho market, located near Ueno Station.
Day 3:
Start your day with a visit to Meiji Shrine in Harajuku, offering tranquility amidst the bustling city.
Explore Takeshita Street in Harajuku, known for its trendy boutiques and quirky shops. Walk along Omotesando Avenue, lined with upscale boutiques and cafes, connecting Harajuku to Shibuya.
Experience the iconic Shibuya Crossing, symbolizing Tokyo's urban energy.
Visit the Hachiko Statue near Shibuya Station, commemorating the loyal dog Hachiko.
Experience the excitement of sushi delivered to your table via a conveyor belt at Kura Revolving Sushi! Indulge in high-quality sushi at affordable prices, all while enjoying a relaxed dining experience in your own private booth. Sip on Japanese beer like Asahi or cocktails like the classic highball as you savor the flavors of Japan in this unique restaurant setting.
Day 4:
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Start your day with a relaxing stroll in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. The entrance fee is small and we recommend you grab a coffee and a snack from 7-11 to enjoy while you walk around. This is a great spot for taking photos, especially in Cherry Blossom season.
Indulge in some retail therapy at the various shopping districts of Shinjuku. Visit department stores like Isetan and Takashimaya, as well as the vibrant streets surrounding Shinjuku Station, offering a plethora of shops, boutiques, and souvenir stores.
Explore Omoide Yokocho, also known as Memory Lane, a nostalgic alleyway lined with tiny eateries serving yakitori and other local delicacies. Enjoy lunch at Kameya for their renowned soba noodles. You will most likely have to wait in line and there is no guarantee that you will sit with your travel partner(s). But the line moves quickly and the noodles are SO worth it. This was one of the best things we ate while in Japan.
Explore Shinjuku's Vibrant Districts: - Option 1: Visit Kabukicho, Tokyo's iconic entertainment and red-light district. Explore its bustling streets filled with neon lights, arcades, themed restaurants, and unique attractions like the Samurai Museum.
- Option 2: Dive into Shinjuku's commercial area around Shinjuku Station. Explore the futuristic architecture of skyscrapers like the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower. Shop at popular malls like Lumine Est and Odakyu Department Store, or immerse yourself in the virtual reality experiences at VR Zone Shinjuku.
Take some time in the evening to visit the 3D cat near the Shinjuku East Exit area. Enjoy the playful and interactive experience and capture some fun photos.
Conclude your day with an unforgettable evening in Golden Gai, a historic area renowned for its narrow alleys lined with unique bars, izakayas, and tiny eateries. Experience Tokyo's nightlife at its finest as you hop from one cozy establishment to another, enjoying drinks and conversations with locals and fellow travelers. You will likely have to pay an entrance fee to each bar or there will be a minimum spend required. While it may not be super budget friendly, this is an experience you cannot miss. We sipped cocktails in a tiny bar that had only 6 seats, 4 of which were filled with locals and no one spoke English. It was such an authentic experience and we highly recommend it.
Day 5-8: Mt. Fuji
How to Get There:
By Train: Take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo to Otsuki Station. Transfer to the Fujikyu Railway Line and take a train to Fujiyoshida Station. This option takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
By Bus: Board a highway bus from various locations in Tokyo, such as Shinjuku Station or Tokyo Station, to Fujiyoshida Station or Kawaguchiko Station. The journey typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Where to Stay near Mt. Fuji:
We recommend to stay in Fujiyoshida at Hostel St. Michael first and then transfer to a traditional Oshi House located near the base of Mt. Fuji.
Highlights
Shindo Avenue
Cheurito Pagoda
Mt. Fuji
Traditional Oshi House stay
Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine
Day 5
Arrive in Fujiyoshida and check into Hostel Michaels. This hostel is run by an American man, Michael, and his Japanese wife. Ask them for dinner recommendations, they know this area very well.
Spend a couple of hours exploring the area, take in the breathtaking scenery and eat at one of the recommended restaurants.
Go to sleep early because you have an early morning on day 6!
Day 6
The Famous Photo
Get up before sunrise and head to "Shindo Avenue." This street is known for its perfectly aligned view of Mt. Fuji, creating a stunning backdrop for photographs. It's a popular spot for capturing the beauty of Japan's iconic mountain. However, because it’s gotten so popular, you will want to get up before sunrise and head down to the street before any local traffic starts. There are signs everywhere instructing you not to jaywalk to get the famous photo. It’s important to respect their culture and follow the rules. If you go early enough, you can be the first one there and get your photo without disrupting local life.
Shindo Avenue.
Grab some breakfast at 7-11.
Walk to the famous Chureito Pagoda, which offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji. The earlier you go the better as the crowds come around 10am and the line to get the famous photo pictured below can grow to more than 100 people.
You could easily spend 2+ hours here exploring the grounds and snapping photos.
Walk back to the hostel and stop at 7-11 for provisions.
Take a nap if you need to, it was a busy day!
Have dinner at another local restaurant before heading back to the hostel for some sleep.
Chureito Pagoda
Built in 1963 as a peace memorial, its five-tiered structure represents the elements of earth, water, fire, wind, and sky, making it not only a scenic spot but also a symbol of harmony and balance.
Day 7
Check out of the hostel and either walk or get a taxi (recommended) to your next accommodation in Fujiyoshida, Hitsuki Guesthouse.
Check in to Hitsuki and learn all about this traditional Oshi House. The hosts have 2 small children and a friendly cat or 2 roaming about the property. The hosts will give you a history lesson about their property that you will not want to miss. Ask them for a dinner recommendation and head to the next destination.
Spend the afternoon at Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine, located nearby. Explore the serene surroundings of the shrine, surrounded by nature and offering a peaceful atmosphere. Take your time to wander through the shrine grounds, take photos, and soak in the tranquility. You could easily spend 2+ hours here.
Head to dinner at the previously recommended spot. This area is actually known to eat horse meat so if you’re feeling adventurous, try one of the many restaurants that serve this local delicacy.
**You could easily add an extra day to get the full Mt. Fuji experience
What to Do:
Experience a cruise on Lake Ashi for breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji.
Ride the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Owakudani Valley.
Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum to see a collection of modern art in a natural setting.
Relax in an onsen (hot spring) resort and enjoy the healing properties of the mineral-rich waters.
Day 8: Travel to Kanazawa
Take the bus back to Tokyo Station.
Take a train from Tokyo Station to Kanazawa.
Day 9-11: Kanazawa
How to Get There:
There are many ways you can get to Kanazawa. We used Rome2Rio to decide the best path for us which is listed above. Alternatively, you could take 2 trains instead of a bus and a train. Having this travel day will give you some time to rest and reflect on the last week you spent exploring Japan. When you get to Tokyo Station, purchase one of the famous Bento Boxes to enjoy on your train ride to Kanazawa.
Where to Stay:
Kanazawa City Center: Offers convenient access to attractions like Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen Garden, and the historic Higashi Chaya District.
Higashi Chaya District: Known for its beautifully preserved tea houses and traditional atmosphere.
Ever wanted to try staying in a pod (or capsule) hotel? Well, here's your chance in Kanazawa! We highly recommend The Torifito Hotel and Pod for an unforgettable experience. We each spent a night in these cozy pods to fully immerse ourselves in the novelty of Japanese hospitality. And let me tell you, it's an experience you won't forget! But fear not, after our night in the pods, we switched to a beautiful traditional hotel room at Torifito Hotel. Surprisingly spacious by Japanese standards, it offered fantastic amenities like complimentary pajamas and slippers, a convenient coin-operated laundry room, and even an onsen for some well-deserved relaxation. Trust us, a night in a pod is a must-try experience while in Japan!
Curious about a stay at a Capsule Hotel? Watch our video!
Highlights:
Kanazawa Castle
Omicho Market
Higashi Chaya District
Samurai District
Traditional Tea Ceremony
Kenrokuen Garden
Seisonkaku Villa
Day 9
Start your day at Kanazawa Castle, located in the heart of the city. You can purchase tickets at the entrance to the castle grounds. Admission to the castle park is free, but if you wish to enter the castle buildings, there is a fee of around ¥310 per person (prices may vary). Don't miss the iconic Ishikawa-mon Gate and the Hishi Yagura turret, which offer great photo opportunities.
After visiting Kanazawa Castle, make your way to Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most celebrated landscape gardens. The entrance to Kenrokuen is located a short walk from the castle. Purchase tickets at the entrance gate. Admission to Kenrokuen Garden is around ¥320 per person (prices may vary). Consider getting a combined ticket for both Kenrokuen and Kanazawa Castle for a discounted price if available. Spend the rest of your morning exploring Kenrokuen Garden, taking in its scenic beauty, seasonal flowers, and traditional features such as bridges, ponds, and teahouses.
Head to Seisonkaku Villa, a historic residence built for a Maeda clan princess. It's located within walking distance from Kenrokuen Garden. Purchase tickets at the entrance to the villa. Admission is around ¥700 per person (prices may vary). Explore the beautifully preserved rooms, gardens, and artifacts, which provide insight into the lifestyle of the ruling class during the Edo period.
Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the Higashi Chaya District, one of Kanazawa's well-preserved geisha districts. It's a short walk from Seisonkaku Villa. Wander along the charming streets lined with traditional wooden teahouses and shops selling local crafts. Consider stopping for a cup of matcha at a teahouse to experience traditional Japanese hospitality.
Day 10
Start your day by visiting Omicho Market, Kanazawa's largest fresh food market. Walk from your accommodation or take public transportation to the market, located in the city center. Be sure to get to the market before 10 am as you are about to have one of the best sushi experiences of your life! Once at the market, head straight to Ohkura and write your name down on the list in front of the door. They open at 10:30am and the first few people on the list will receive a 700yen sushi set complete with an assortment of fresh fish, rice and the most amazing miso soup you will ever have. This place is frequented by locals and is a true hidden gem. Spend the rest of the morning browsing the stalls selling a variety of fresh seafood, produce, and local specialties. This market is pretty big so take your time making a list of other things you want to try because you will be returning tomorrow.
After exploring Omicho Market, head to the nearby Samurai District, known as Nagamachi. It's a short walk from the market. Wander through the historic streets lined with well-preserved samurai residences and traditional earthen walls. Take your time exploring the area and learn about the samurai's way of life during the Edo period.
Return Higashi Chaya District for a chance to see a real life geisha! There aren’t many left but we can confirm that around 4pm you can see one leaving the famous district. Stop into Nouka Banzai The Shop to pick up some locally made chopsticks for only 880yen. Everything in this shop is made by local artists which is a nice change from the mass produced items you can find in other stores.
Day 11
Start your day with a quick and convenient breakfast at the nearby 7-11 convenience store. We suggest trying some onigiri (rice balls), egg salad sandwiches, or squid salad.
Prebook a traditional tea ceremony on Airbnb experiences. This was the BEST thing we did in Japan, and maybe one of our favorite experiences of all time. Your guide, Tomomi, grew up in Kanazawa but also lived in Seattle for a time. Her english is very good and her commitment to sharing the traditional tea ceremony is unmatched. Her passion, patience and attention to detail is incredible and this experience is, without a doubt, 100% worth it. Tomomi will teach you about the history of matcha tea, the customs of the tea ceremony and how to make matcha tea the traditional way. She also includes locally made sweets to try as you sip your freshly made matcha tea. Please do yourself a favor and book this tour here. We get no commission if you book, it’s just the most amazing experience!
After the tea ceremony, head back to Omicho Market for lunch. Try all of the things you made note of yesterday. Kanazawa is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship in gold leaf production, with a centuries-old tradition that has earned it the title of "City of Gold”. Be sure to try gold leaf covered ice cream at the market! While it is a little expensive, it will make for a great memory.
After lunch, visit Ishiura Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine located near Omicho Market. Take in the serene atmosphere of the shrine grounds and admire the traditional architecture and beautiful gardens. Take some time to explore the shrine's main hall, worship halls, and other sacred structures.
Depending on your interests and energy level, you can spend the rest of the afternoon exploring more of Kanazawa's attractions or relaxing at a local cafe. Consider visiting nearby landmarks such as the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art or taking a leisurely stroll along the Asanogawa River.
The Way of Tea Kanazawa
Tomomi will teach you about the history of matcha tea, the customs of the tea ceremony and how to make matcha tea the traditional way. She also includes locally made sweets to try as you sip your freshly made matcha tea. Please do yourself a favor and book this tour here. We get no commission if you book, it’s just the most amazing experience!
Day 12-15: Kyoto
Kyoto is one of the most popular places to visit in Japan. Which also means that it is PACKED with tourists. Most people rave about Kyoto but we found it to be so busy that a lot of the sights were hard to enjoy because there were so many people. We recommend to pick your top 3 sights and visit one each day, first thing in the morning.
How to Get There:
From Kanazawa, take the Thunderbird Limited Express train to Kyoto Station, which takes around 2.5-3 hours.
Where to Stay in Kyoto:
Gion: Known for its traditional atmosphere and geisha districts.
Downtown Kyoto: Offers a mix of modern amenities and historical attractions.
Southern Higashiyama: Home to many historic temples and shrines.
We stayed at The OneFive Kyoto Shijo which is conveniently located above a 7-11. Due to Kyoto’s popularity, we found accommodation in Kyoto to be quiet expensive. So we opted to stay a little off the beaten path and take public transportation everywhere we wanted to go.
Highlights
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Gion and
Hanamikoji Dori
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Tenryu-ji Temple.
Day 12
Check into your hotel.
Depending on your arrival time and energy level, you may choose to explore a nearby area or relax at your hotel. Consider visiting a local neighborhood such as Gion or Pontocho for a leisurely stroll and to get a taste of Kyoto's atmosphere.
Day 13
Start your day early with a visit to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. Arriving early allows you to beat the crowds and fully appreciate the beauty of this iconic temple.
After visiting Kinkaku-ji, head to Ryoan-ji Temple to contemplate the famous rock garden. Explore the temple grounds and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Head to Nishiki Market, known as "Kyoto's Kitchen." Explore the bustling market street lined with stalls selling fresh seafood, produce, pickles, sweets, and kitchenware. Sample some local snacks and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this culinary paradise. Make note of things you still want to try because we will visit this market again.
In the afternoon, visit Nijo Castle, the former residence of the Tokugawa shoguns. Explore the castle's fortified walls, gates, and gardens, and learn about its historic significance.
Conclude your day with a visit to the Gion district, Kyoto's famous geisha district. Wander through the historic streets and perhaps catch a glimpse of geisha and maiko as they go about their day.
Day 14
Fushimi Inari Shrine
You might recognize these Torri Gates from countless Instagram photos. The secret to getting pictures here without the crowds is to come early and walk about 5 minutes up the stairs. Most tourists take their photos at the beginning of the stairs.
Start your day early with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of torii gates. Arriving early allows you to explore the shrine's trails and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
After visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine, head to Nishiki Market, known as "Kyoto's Kitchen." Explore the bustling market street lined with stalls selling fresh seafood, produce, pickles, sweets, and kitchenware. Sample some local snacks and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this culinary paradise.
Head to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering panoramic views of Kyoto. Explore the temple complex and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Conclude your day with a visit to Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto's most famous Shinto shrines, located in the Gion district. Take a leisurely stroll through the shrine grounds and soak in the spiritual atmosphere before enjoying dinner at a nearby restaurant.
Day 15
Start your day early with a visit to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove to beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk through the towering bamboo stalks and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this iconic Kyoto attraction. Be sure to explore the gardens nearby and enjoy the views!
2. After exploring the Bamboo Grove, head to Tenryu-ji Temple, located nearby. Spend time exploring the temple's scenic garden and enjoying views of the Arashiyama mountains.
3. If you fancy a burger, there is a small but mighty burger place nearby called X. There is always a line but it is well worth the wait!
4. Visit the nearby Monkey Park Iwatayama to observe wild Japanese macaques in their natural habitat. Then, cross the Togetsukyo Bridge spanning the Katsura River for panoramic views of Arashiyama and the surrounding mountains.
5. Return to central Kyoto in the evening and explore the Gion district, known for its traditional architecture and geisha culture. Wander through the historic streets and perhaps enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Kyoto cuisine. Alternatively, you could revisit any sites that you wanted more time in.
Day 16-20: Osaka and Nara
How to Get There:
You can take the JR Special Rapid Service train from Kyoto Station to Osaka Station. These trains run frequently throughout the day, and the journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on the specific service. The Special Rapid Service trains are a fast and direct option for traveling between the two cities.
Alternatively, you can take a local train on the JR Kyoto Line from Kyoto Station to Osaka Station. While these trains may make more stops along the way, they provide a budget-friendly option for travelers. The journey typically takes around 40-60 minutes, depending on the number of stops.
Where to Stay in Osaka:
Namba: Known for its vibrant entertainment district, shopping arcades, and street food.
Umeda: Bustling commercial hub with skyscrapers, department stores, and excellent transportation connections.
Shinsaibashi: Dynamic shopping and dining district famous for its long arcade, offering a wide range of shops and restaurants.
We stayed at Guest House Mii which was one of our favorite accommodations! This place has more of a quiet hostel vibe but also offered private rooms which we loved. The owner, Mii, is very kind and happy to give you any local recommendations. This is one of the best located accommodations in Osaka and we would 10/10 stay here again.
Highlights:
Dotonbori
Day trip to Nara
Osaka Castle
Shitennoji Temple
Universal Studios Japan
Kuromon Ichiba Market
Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street
Day 16
Begin your day in the Namba district, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of shops and eateries.
Explore Shinsaibashi Shopping Street, a bustling arcade filled with shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Take your time browsing through the various stores and enjoying the lively ambiance.
Later in the afternoon or evening, make your way to Dotonbori, Osaka's iconic entertainment district. Experience the bustling streets, vibrant neon signs, and delicious street food offerings. Don't forget to snap photos of the famous Glico Running Man sign and other landmarks.
Eat the famous dish Takoyaki at Takoyaki Wanaka Dotonbori, don’t be afraid of the line, it moves quickly.
End your night at Hozenji Yokocho, a charming sidestreet near Dotonbori. There are numerous Izikayas to stop and have a drink and something to eat.
The Glico Running Man has been an enduring symbol of Osaka since its creation in 1935 by the confectionery company Ezaki Glico. Originally a neon sign advertising Glico products, it has since evolved into a beloved landmark, embodying the city's dynamic essence for nearly a century.
Day 17
Head to Universal Studios Japan (USJ) in the Osaka Bay Area. Take the JR Yumesaki Line from Osaka Station to Universal City Station, approximately 10-15 minutes away.
Spend the entire day at USJ, exploring its various themed areas and attractions. Be sure to visit Super Nintendo World and purchase tickets in advance.
To streamline your Universal Studios Japan (USJ) experience, purchase tickets in advance through Klook. This ensures you'll bypass lines and secure your preferred date and admission type, whether it's a one-day pass or an express pass. With Klook's user-friendly platform, you can easily select from various ticket options and receive instant confirmation along with e-tickets via email or mobile app. Given the park's popularity, it's advisable to book well in advance, particularly during peak seasons, to avoid disappointment. Sometimes they open the park up to an hour early so be sure to arrive very early to maximize your time. To enter Super Nintendo World you will need a timed entry ticket which you can book once you’re in the park. We got there right when they opened and our timed entry ticket given to us was for 11.
We explain how to purchase your tickets and other important info in this video.
Day 18
Take a day trip to Nara by train from Osaka Station. Use the JR Yamatoji Line, which provides direct service to Nara Station. The journey takes about 45 minutes.
Upon arrival in Nara, head to Nara Park, a vast green space known for its friendly deer and iconic landmarks. Spend time wandering through the park, interacting with the deer, and taking in the serene surroundings.
Visit Todai-ji Temple, one of Japan's most famous and historically significant temples. Explore the impressive wooden structure, home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), which is one of the largest bronze statues of Buddha in the world.
Proceed to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful vermilion-colored buildings and hundreds of stone lanterns lining the paths. Take a leisurely stroll through the shrine's forested surroundings and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Explore the charming Naramachi district, known for its well-preserved traditional merchant houses and quaint streets. Wander through the historic neighborhood, browse the shops, and immerse yourself in Nara's rich cultural heritage.
Conclude your day in Nara with a visit to Yoshiki-en Garden, a serene Japanese garden located near Nara Park. Take a peaceful stroll along the winding paths, admire the seasonal foliage, and unwind amidst the natural beauty.
Once you've finished exploring Nara, return to Osaka by taking the JR Yamatoji Line from Nara Station to Osaka Station. Plan your departure time accordingly to ensure a smooth journey back to Osaka.
Day 19
Umeda Sky Building
The Umeda Sky Building in Osaka, Japan, is renowned for its unique twin tower design and iconic rooftop observatory, providing visitors with unforgettable views of the city skyline.
Start your day with a visit to Osaka Castle, a historic landmark surrounded by expansive gardens. Explore the castle grounds and learn about Osaka's feudal history.
Visit Kuromon Ichiba Market, known for its fresh seafood and street food stalls. Sample local delicacies and enjoy the market's lively atmosphere.
Visit the Umeda Sky building for an incredible view of Osaka.
An hour before sunset, make your way to the Hep Five Ferris Wheel and purchase your ticket to watch the sunset and get another great view of Osaka.
Spend your final evening back in Dotonbori eating one of the most famous dishes in Osaka, Okonomiyaki, at Chibo Okonomiyaki.
Day 20
It’s time to make your last trip to 7-11 for some delicious food and if you have time, stop at Don Quixote to grab the last of your souvenirs including candy, clothes, skincare and more! Head to the airport and try not to cry as you leave this beautiful country.
This 20 day itinerary offers a diverse and immersive experience of Japan. Adjustments can be made based on your preferences, interests, and travel dates. Enjoy your journey through Japan!
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