How to Plan a Perfect 14-Day Itinerary for Japan
Are you feeling overwhelmed by planning your first trip to Japan?
I completely understand. Planning a trip to Japan can seem like a puzzle with a thousand pieces. I've spoken with many travelers who've come into our Tokyo office looking for a clear plan. That's why I've created this straightforward guide to experiencing Japan in 14 incredible days. After reading this, you'll know exactly what to see, where to go, and how to soak up the authentic charm of Japan.
Day 1 and 2 — Welcome to Tokyo
Experience Tokyo from its highest vantage point!
Your journey will naturally begin in Tokyo, a bustling city that beautifully balances tradition with futuristic vibes. Tokyo's energy can be electrifying—and trust me, it’s easy to spend days just exploring this vast city. If you're curious, here's a great article we’ve posted about interesting facts about Tokyo that might enrich your first few days here.
Spend your first day easing into your trip. Start at Shibuya Crossing, snap some iconic photos, then wander through the trendy shops nearby. Later, head to Shinjuku to experience Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife. If nightlife interests you, you can also check out our in-depth guide to exploring Tokyo's nightlife.
On your second day, visit Tokyo’s historical side. Visit Senso-ji Temple and then browse the stalls at Nakamise Street. In the afternoon, consider visiting either Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree. Having trouble choosing? Our comparison of Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree can help you decide.
Day 3 — Day Trip to Mount Fuji
No trip to Japan is complete without experiencing Mount Fuji, and a day trip from Tokyo is simple and highly rewarding. I frequently recommend travelers check out our guide on the best ways to visit Mount Fuji from Tokyo. Spend the day soaking up the views, visiting the Fuji Five Lakes, or strolling around Hakone, known for its relaxing hot springs and stunning vistas.
If you're into photography, don’t miss my tips on the best spots to capture Mount Fuji from Tokyo.
Days 4 and 5 — Discover Kyoto's Cultural Heart
Embark on a full-day adventure in Kyoto with a private guide.
Hop on a shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Kyoto. Kyoto is Japan's heart of culture and tradition. With thousands of temples, shrines, and gorgeous gardens, Kyoto offers a serene contrast to Tokyo’s bustling atmosphere. Many travelers I've talked to have particularly loved exploring Fushimi Inari Shrine with its iconic orange gates and the serene bamboo groves in Arashiyama.
Spend your second Kyoto day in the historical Higashiyama district. Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, stroll the charming Ninenzaka street, and participate in a traditional tea ceremony. Interested in unique cultural experiences? Vogue has a wonderful article about immersive cultural experiences in Japan that pairs well with your Kyoto adventures.
Day 6 — Historic Nara
Take a short train ride from Kyoto to Nara, Japan’s ancient capital city. The highlight here is Nara Park, home to hundreds of friendly, free-roaming deer. It's a delightful experience that travelers consistently rave about. Visit Todaiji Temple, which houses an impressive giant bronze Buddha, a must-see sight in Nara.
Day 7 — Osaka, Foodie's Paradise
Experience the rich flavors of Osaka on a guided food tour through Shinsekai.
Traveling to Osaka from Nara is quick, and you'll find yourself immersed in Japan's culinary capital by lunchtime. Explore the vibrant Dotonbori district, famous for street food like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). Osaka Castle also makes for a memorable afternoon, surrounded by beautiful parks ideal for relaxing after lunch.
Day 8 — Hiroshima’s Peaceful Reflection
Discover Hiroshima's soul on this private guided tour, navigating through its poignant history and serene beauty.
Next, take a morning shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima. Visiting the Peace Memorial Park and Museum here is a profoundly moving experience. Many travelers I've met say it was the most impactful part of their trip. Later, stroll through Shukkeien Garden, offering a peaceful space for reflection.
Day 9 — Miyajima Island’s Scenic Beauty
While staying in Hiroshima, I always recommend dedicating a day to Miyajima Island. Famous for the "floating" torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, this island offers stunning views, friendly deer encounters, and local snacks like oysters and momiji manju (maple-leaf-shaped cakes). The UNESCO World Heritage Site status adds to the island's charm.
Speaking of UNESCO sites, consider checking out their list of Japan’s World Heritage Sites to discover even more remarkable spots to visit.
Days 10 and 11 — Scenic Kanazawa and Shirakawa-go
Embark on a thrilling one-day private tour to the World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go.
Next, journey north to Kanazawa, a city often overlooked but absolutely stunning. Here, the Kenrokuen Garden is known as one of Japan's most beautiful landscape gardens. Wander around Higashi Chaya District, where traditional teahouses and artisan shops line quaint streets.
On day 11, I highly recommend taking a bus to Shirakawa-go village, renowned for its traditional gassho-style farmhouses. Travelers consistently share how this quaint village feels like stepping into a fairytale.
Exploring Kyoto Beyond the Usual Spots
Wondering how to experience Kyoto without being trapped by tourist crowds?
Most itineraries send you straight to the famous Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) or Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine, and while these spots are incredible, Kyoto offers way more. I always suggest heading to lesser-known gems like the Philosopher’s Path, especially in early mornings. It’s serene, lined with cherry blossoms in spring, and feels truly peaceful compared to the city’s busier temples.
My customers often tell me they loved strolling through Gion after sunset. Gion is Kyoto's famed geisha district, and at night it feels genuinely enchanting, almost like stepping into a movie. Small lantern-lit streets, traditional wooden buildings, and glimpses of geishas heading quietly between engagements make this a must-visit. Consider pairing this with an authentic tea ceremony, something Vogue wonderfully describes in their roundup of cultural experiences in Japan.
Eating in Kyoto is an adventure itself. Don’t just stick to sushi or ramen here; Kyoto is renowned for Kaiseki cuisine—delicate, multi-course meals that change with the seasons. It’s a meal you'll never forget, trust me on that.
The Quiet Magic of Nara and Osaka
Experience one of Japan's most culturally rich cities in comfort and style on this comprehensive tour.
Have you thought about adding Nara and Osaka to your itinerary?
They're both so close to Kyoto, making them perfect day trips or quick overnight stays. Nara is famous for its friendly deer freely wandering around Nara Park, but there's more here. Todai-ji Temple houses a gigantic Buddha statue, and standing before it genuinely humbles you.
Osaka, meanwhile, is all about flavor and fun. It's the kind of city that comes alive after sunset, especially around Dotonbori. The dazzling lights, endless street food options, and vibrant atmosphere make it a favorite among travelers I've guided. My customers rave about trying takoyaki here—crispy octopus balls topped with savory sauces—and Osaka-style okonomiyaki, a delicious savory pancake grilled right in front of you.
Experiencing Hiroshima’s Resilience and Beauty
Hiroshima is an essential visit. The Peace Memorial Park and Museum offer a deeply moving experience, illustrating resilience in a beautifully profound way. But beyond its history, Hiroshima is a vibrant city filled with charm. Nearby Miyajima Island, home to the floating torii gate, is stunning at high tide. It’s an image that's probably popped up on your Instagram feed more than once, but trust me—it’s even better in person.
As one traveler shared with me recently, spending a night in Hiroshima allowed her to slow down and genuinely appreciate Japan’s quieter beauty, something often overlooked in more fast-paced cities like Tokyo and Osaka.
Venturing North: Kanazawa and Takayama
Experience the charm of Hida Takayama with our exclusive tour!
Thinking about exploring less crowded cities rich in culture?
Kanazawa and Takayama are perfect for this. Kanazawa is like a quieter version of Kyoto, famous for Kenrokuen Garden—arguably Japan’s most beautiful traditional garden. It’s gorgeous year-round, but in autumn, it's spectacular with vibrant maple leaves.
Takayama, located in the Japanese Alps, is another gem. Known for its beautifully preserved Edo-period streets and sake breweries, it feels like traveling back in time. One of my customers mentioned recently how wandering through Takayama’s morning market was one of her favorite memories—chatting with friendly locals and tasting fresh regional snacks.
The Natural Wonder of Hakone
Curious about Japan’s natural side?
Hakone is your spot. It's conveniently close to Tokyo, making it easy to include. Famous for hot springs (onsen) and beautiful views of Mount Fuji, Hakone lets you recharge your batteries after busy city explorations. I often suggest to visitors to spend at least one night here in a traditional ryokan, soaking in an onsen under starry skies—it’s simply unforgettable.
If you’re looking for ways to get there, I’ve detailed some practical suggestions on how you can travel from Tokyo to Hakone.
Closing Out Your Trip: Relaxed Days Back in Tokyo
Discover Tokyo's splendor in a one-hour open-air bus tour.
After exploring so many vibrant cities, I usually advise taking your final days in Tokyo at a slower pace. Maybe revisit some areas you loved or explore neighborhoods you missed earlier. Shibuya and Harajuku offer fantastic shopping, while quieter areas like Daikanyama are perfect for relaxed café-hopping.
And speaking of memorable endings, there's nothing quite like seeing Tokyo lit up at night from a high vantage point. If you're debating which viewpoint to choose, my detailed comparison of the Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree might help you decide which experience best fits your taste.
Making Your Trip Truly Yours
I’ve personally seen travelers transform their dream Japan vacation into unforgettable reality. If you’re feeling excited or even slightly overwhelmed planning your 14-day trip, that’s exactly why I’m here. At Trip To Japan, we personalize every detail to match your travel style, making sure your trip is stress-free and genuinely memorable.
If you need personalized suggestions or help with bookings, just call me directly—I love helping travelers discover their perfect Japan experience.
