The Ultimate 3-Week Japan Itinerary: Must-Sees & Hidden Gems

Come early to avoid the crowds, as this is one of Tokyo’s most popular areas. The streets are open 24/7, so visiting early in the morning or late at night is also a great option.

There’s usually a queue, but it’s absolutely worth the wait for one of the best matcha experiences in Tokyo.

Take time to walk around the surrounding streets to discover the best photo spots with different perspectives of the tower.

A peaceful and underrated shrine, perfect if you’re looking for a quieter, more local experience.

Famous for anime, manga, gaming culture, and neon-lit streets—especially fun to explore in the evening.

Visit at sunrise for a peaceful experience and almost no crowds. From around 9–10 a.m., it gets very busy as tour groups start arriving.

There’s another Lawson nearby that’s very popular and often crowded. This location is much quieter and a better option for photos.

A great creative café with a relaxed atmosphere. Don’t miss the carrot cake and matcha.

Try the famous fluffy pancakes — a perfect stop after exploring the lake area.

Visit very early, ideally at sunrise, to enjoy the area without crowds and get the best photos.

Perfect for a day trip from Kyoto (less than one hour away). Uji is world-famous for its high-quality matcha.

A must-visit in Uji — don’t miss their matcha ice cream.

Come early to avoid the crowds — around 7 a.m. or earlier is ideal for a quieter experience among the torii gates.

A peaceful temple featuring a small bamboo grove and a very serene atmosphere.

Enjoy a relaxed walk along the river — especially nice for a calm break from sightseeing.

Visit at night to see the shrine beautifully illuminated and experience a different, calmer atmosphere.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s surprisingly quiet. When we visited, we had the temple almost to ourselves.

Meet and feed the famous free-roaming deer — one of the most iconic experiences near Osaka.

Our favorite temple in Japan. Buy a small daruma, make a wish, and place it somewhere in the temple (or take it home). Don’t miss the stamp rally for a unique souvenir.

Visit before sunset to enjoy the warm evening light, then stay as the streets light up for a lively atmosphere.

You don’t need to pay the entrance fee — walking around the park already offers beautiful views of the castle from all angles.

A great spot for breakfast or a relaxed coffee break.

Perfect for a fun afternoon filled with arcade games, bowling, and other indoor activities.

A modern shopping area with a wide range of stores, cafés, and restaurants.

One of the best day trips from Osaka. A charming traditional village with wooden boathouses. We rented a car, but you can also enjoy a boat ride in the bay.