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Takanawa Travel K.K.,
Kitashinagawa 5-11-1
Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan

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First Time in Japan: A Two-Week Journey Through Its Most Iconic Cities

This two-week Japan itinerary is designed for first-time visitors who want to experience the country’s most iconic sights without feeling rushed. From the electric energy of Tokyo to the timeless temples of Kyoto, the food-filled streets of Osaka, the calm of Nara and the unforgettable views of Mt Fuji, this route balances culture, nature and vibrant city life.

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Itinerary by

Genalda Silva

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Starting from $654 per person

Cities to visit
Dates
Travelers

Starting from $654 per person

Tokyo
Tokyo3 days
Mt. Fuji
Mt. Fuji2 days
Osaka
Osaka2 days
Kyoto
Kyoto3 days
Nara
Nara1 day
Tokyo
Tokyo4 days

Tokyo

Itinerary

Recommended Hotels

This hotel was conveniently located in the heart of Akihabara, yet tucked away from the main road. It allowed you to fully enjoy the neighbourhood and have easy access to the metro, while still being able to rest in a peaceful environment.

Tokyo

Day 1

Asakusa & Traditional Tokyo

Begin your journey in Asakusa, wandering through Nakamise-dori before reaching Sensō-ji and Hōzōmon Gate. It’s the perfect introduction to Japan’s spiritual side and a gentle way to ease into Tokyo. Spend the rest of the day exploring the surrounding neighbourhood streets and local cafés.

Sensō-ji

1. Sensō-ji

2-chōme-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan

4.5
Benizuru Pancake

2. Benizuru Pancake

2-chōme-1-11 Nishiasakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0035, Japan

4.0
Daily: 9am-4pm
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They are super famous for the fluffiest eggs Benedict and bacon pancakes, but there are some sweet flavours too

Tokyo

Day 2

Ginza & Akihabara

Explore Chiyoda City with a walk around the Imperial Palace and its peaceful gardens. Head to Ginza for a more modern, polished side of Tokyo before finishing the day in Akihabara, where anime culture, arcades and neon lights take over.

Kyoto Gyoen National Garden

3. Kyoto Gyoen National Garden

3 Kyōtogyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-0881, Japan

4.5
Japanese Steak Bowl & Beef Curry

4. Japanese Steak Bowl & Beef Curry

Japan, 〒101-0025 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Kanda Sakumachō, 2-chōme−12 きりやビル 1F

4.7
Weekdays: 5pm-10pm, Sat-Sun: 11am-10pm
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You must try this restaurant. It’s a small, intimate spot with a high counter surrounding the open kitchen, where the chefs cook right in front of you. It’s as much a visual experience as it is a delicious one.

Tokyo

Day 3

Panoramic views of Tokyo

Visit the Tokyo Skytree Tower in the morning for sweeping city views, then travel to Kawaguchiko in the afternoon. The journey itself feels like a transition from fast-paced city life to nature. Settle in and enjoy your first glimpses of Mt Fuji.

Untitled

5. Untitled

3 hours
Tokyo Skytree Tickets: Panoramic Views of Tokyo & Mt. Fuji

6. Tokyo Skytree Tickets: Panoramic Views of Tokyo & Mt. Fuji

Tokyo

1 hour and 30 minutes

Recommended Hotels

A beautifully designed resort near Kawaguchiko, with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji that made every morning feel unforgettable.

Mt. Fuji

Day 4

Lakes & Scenic Views

Spend the day exploring Lake Kawaguchiko and Lake Yamanaka, both offering beautiful views of Mt Fuji. Walk up to Chureito Pagoda for one of Japan’s most iconic panoramas. Keep the pace slow and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Arakurayama Sengen Park

1. Arakurayama Sengen Park

2-chōme-4-1 Asama, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0011, Japan

4.6
Lake Yamanaka

2. Lake Yamanaka

Lake Yamanaka, Yamanakako, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi, Japan

4.5
Shaw's Sushi Bar & Dining

3. Shaw's Sushi Bar & Dining

3632-7 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0301, Japan

4.7
Mon-Wed: 5pm-7pm, Thu: 11am-1pm, Fri-Sat: 5pm-7pm
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A family-owned restaurant that has delicious sushi bowls. The fish was so fresh!

Mt. Fuji

Day 5

Ryokan to Street Food

Enjoy a relaxed morning at your ryokan before taking the Shinkansen to Osaka. In the evening, explore Dotonbori, where bright lights, lively streets and endless food options set the tone for the city.

THE PARK

4. THE PARK

3752 Hirano, Yamanakako, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0502, Japan

4.2
Weekdays: 10am-3pm, Sat-Sun: 10am-5pm
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The perfect site for a brunch with an incredible view of Mount Fuji.

Dotonbori

5. Dotonbori

1 Chome-9 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan

4.4

Recommended Hotels

A flexible stay with the option to prepare simple meals, perfectly located next to Kuromon Market and just a short walk from Dotonbori.

Osaka

Day 6

Culture & city life

Visit Osaka Castle in the morning, then spend the day exploring Nipponbashi and the surrounding neighbourhoods. Stop by Namba Yasaka Shrine and finish the day with an onsen visit to unwind.

Osaka Castle

1. Osaka Castle

1-1 Ōsakajō, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan

4.4
Daily: 9am-6pm
Kobe Beef WANOMIYA Dotonbori Main Store

2. Kobe Beef WANOMIYA Dotonbori Main Store

1-chōme-5-2 Dōtonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan

4.8
Daily: 11am-10pm

Osaka

Day 7

Universal Studios Japan

Dedicate the day to Universal Studios Japan for a fun, high-energy break from sightseeing. Arrive early to make the most of the rides and themed areas.

Universal Studios Japan

3. Universal Studios Japan

2-chōme-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan

4.5
OKO takoyaki vegan vegetarian glutenfree

4. OKO takoyaki vegan vegetarian glutenfree

1-chōme-15-24 Higashishinsaibashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0083, Japan

4.8
Daily: 5pm-11pm
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A very affordable, casual dinner that is suitable for different dietary requirements.

Recommended Hotels

A hybrid hostel and hotel offering both shared and private rooms, with great communal spaces like a library and kitchen — perfect for a social yet comfortable stay in Kyoto.

Kyoto

Day 8

Gion

Travel to Kyoto and explore the historic Gion district. Visit Kiyomizu-dera, Yasaka Pagoda and take part in a traditional tea ceremony. End the day wandering Kyoto’s atmospheric streets at a slower pace.

Kimono Tea Ceremony MAIKOYA Nishiki

1. Kimono Tea Ceremony MAIKOYA Nishiki

329 Ebiyachō, Gokomachi-dori Sanjo sagaru, 329 海老屋町 中京区 京都市 京都府 604-8076, Japan

4.9
Daily: 9am-6pm
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A beautiful tradition that feels great to be part of.

Kyoto's Gion District Private Tour with a Local Guide

2. Kyoto's Gion District Private Tour with a Local Guide

Kyoto

3 hours
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If you want to go deeper into Gion beyond the famous streets and discover even more temples and bamboo groves.

Kyoto

Day 9

Arashiyama & Nishiki Market

Start early at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, then visit Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, known for its unique stone statues. In the afternoon, explore Nishiki Market for local food and souvenirs.

Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Bamboo Forest & Monkey Park

3. Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Bamboo Forest & Monkey Park

Kyoto

4 hours and 30 minutes
Kyoto Nishiki Market Brunch Walking Food Tour

4. Kyoto Nishiki Market Brunch Walking Food Tour

Kyoto

3 Hours

Kyoto

Day 10

Fushimi Inari & Hidden Temples

Walk through the torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto’s most iconic sights. Balance the crowds with a visit to quieter temples such as Kodai-ji, surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

5. Fushimi Inari Taisha

68 Fukakusa Yabunouchichō, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882, Japan

4.6
White Lover

6. White Lover

4-chōme-140 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan

4.2
Daily: 12pm-4pm
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Food that feels like home

Recommended Hotels

A beautiful hotel located just a short walk from Nara Park and Tōdai-ji Temple, making it incredibly convenient for exploring the area.

Nara

Day 11

Deer Park & Great Buddha

Take a day trip to Nara and stroll through Nara Park, where deer roam freely. Visit Tōdai-ji Temple to see the Great Buddha, one of Japan’s most impressive cultural landmarks.

Nara Park

1. Nara Park

Nara, Japan

4.6
Tōdai-ji

2. Tōdai-ji

406-1 Zōshichō, Nara, 630-8587, Japan

4.7
Daily: 7am-5pm

Recommended Hotels

For the final days in Tokyo, I recommend staying closer to Shinjuku or Shibuya to explore a livelier side of the city with convenient access to major attractions.

Tokyo

Day 12

Back to Tokyo

Return to Tokyo by Shinkansen and head up Tokyo Tower for panoramic city views. If you’re feeling up for something fun and slightly chaotic, try Mario Kart in Shibuya for a playful way to experience the city streets.

Tokyo Go-Kart: Shibuya Crossing and Tokyo Tower (105 Min)

1. Tokyo Go-Kart: Shibuya Crossing and Tokyo Tower (105 Min)

Tokyo

1 hour and 45 minutes

Tokyo

Day 13

Shibuya & Shinjuku

Experience the famous Shibuya Crossing before taking part in a calligraphy class for a cultural pause. End the night in Shinjuku, enjoying karaoke and Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife.

Calligraphy Workshop Tokyo

2. Calligraphy Workshop Tokyo

和の音交流館 4th Floor, 5丁目-4-1 上野 台東区 東京都 110-0005, Japan

5.0
Mon: 10am-3pm, Thu: 1pm-3pm, Fri-Sun: 10am-3pm
Savor Wagyu & Sake Pairing in Shinjuku

3. Savor Wagyu & Sake Pairing in Shinjuku

Tokyo

2 hours and 30 minutes
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Indulge in an eight-course wagyu beef tasting, each course perfectly paired with a specially selected Japanese sake.

Tokyo

Day 14

teamLab

Visit teamLab Planets for an immersive digital art experience unlike anything else in the world. Spend the rest of the day exploring at your own pace or revisiting favourite spots.

teamLab Planets Tokyo Entry Ticket – Digital Art Museum

4. teamLab Planets Tokyo Entry Ticket – Digital Art Museum

Tokyo

2 hours

Tokyo

Day 15

Harajuku

Go shopping in Harajuku and soak up the area’s creative street style. Finish your trip at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for free city views and a final moment overlooking Tokyo.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building No.1

5. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building No.1

2-chōme-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-8001, Japan

4.5
Weekdays: 8am-6pm
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