It’s going to be 2025, if Japan is on your bucket list this year, we have you covered! From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, Japan is a dream destination filled with rich culture, history, and endless charm. To ensure your trip is truly unforgettable, here’s a complete 14-day guide to exploring Japan. Let’s get started!
Day 1: Welcome to Japan | Arrival in Tokyo
Arrive at Tokyo Haneda or Narita International Airport. Check-in: Settle into your hotel/hostel (Pro Tip: Book near Tokyo station or Shibuya area). Later in the evening, go for an Izakaya crawl.
Day 2: Full-day Tokyo City Tour
Cover Tokyo city by public transportation, visiting:
Asakusa Senso-ji Temple (kimono-wearing experience).
Meiji Jingu Shrine.
Harajuku Omotesando.
Shibuya Scramble and Hachiko Statue.
Day 3: Travel to Mt. Fuji
Begin your day early by booking a private tour from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji. This is highly recommended, as it offers a peaceful experience without the stress of navigating transportation. Private tours include pickup and drop-off at your hotel, so be sure to arrange your booking accordingly. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, and later, drive back to Tokyo to relax.
Day 4: Day at leisure OR Optional tour to DisneySea
Wake up at your own pace, enjoy breakfast at your hotel, and check out. Keep luggage in the lobby and go out for leisure activities like shopping, Team Lab, or Monkey Cart at Shibuya. Alternatively, visit DisneySea (in this case, carry your luggage and store it in the lockers). Later at night, take an overnight dome bus to Nagoya.
Day 5: Nagoya City Tour
Explore Nagoya's bustling city centre and Nagoya Castle. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional Japanese restaurant. The evening explore the city on your own.
Day 6: Travel to Shirakawa and Takayama Village | UNESCO Site
Take an early morning bus to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri houses. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Takayama, another charming historic town. In the evening, return to Nagoya.
For this trip, you can book a guided group excursion from Nagoya to Shirakawa-go. It's easy, enjoyable, and less burdensome, as it eliminates the hassle of navigating transportation on your own. The tour begins at selected bus stands and will drop you off at the same locations in the evening.
Day 7: Nagoya to Kyoto via Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
Morning: Take a bullet train from Nagoya to Kyoto. Afternoon: Explore Kyoto's ancient temples and shrines, such as Kiyomizu-dera and Fushimi Inari Shrine. Walk and explore the surrounding area. Reach your hotel and rest for the night.
Day 8: Kyoto to Nara (Early Morning)
Early Morning: Take a day trip to Nara, a city steeped in history and home to Todai-ji Temple, the largest wooden building in the world. Marvel at the giant bronze Buddha statue inside the temple. Explore Nara Park, where you can encounter friendly deer roaming freely.
Pro Tip: Try the rice cracker that you will be feeding the deer. It’s good.
Day 9: Free Day in Kyoto
Enjoy a free day in Kyoto to explore at your own pace. Revisit any temples or shrines you might have missed, such as the Philosopher’s Path or Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion). Alternatively, take a relaxing stroll or enjoy a peaceful tea ceremony. Or you can opt for a Gesiha Performance, they are magnificent to watch and an experience to remember.
Day 10: Head to Osaka
Transfer from Kyoto to Osaka, Japan’s food capital. Check out these must-dos:
Visit Osaka Castle.
Stroll around Dotonbori, famous for its neon lights and street food.
Try Takoyaki (octopus balls) and Okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes).
Day 11: Osaka’s Best Attractions
Spend your second day exploring Universal Studios Japan or the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. For a chilled evening, relax in Shinsekai with some local beer.
Day 12: Free Day in Osaka
Use this free day to explore Osaka further or take a day trip to nearby destinations such as:
Kobe: Try the famous Kobe beef.
Himeji: Visit Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sakai: Known for its traditional knife-making workshops.
Day 13: Departure Day
It’s time to say goodbye to Japan! Depending on your flight schedule, grab some last-minute souvenirs and a bento box for the journey home. You’ll leave with unforgettable memories and, hopefully, plans to return someday.
Packing Tips:
Clothing: Pack comfortable clothes, layers for different weather conditions, and comfortable walking shoes.
Essentials: A universal power adapter, portable Wi-Fi, and Japan Rail Pass are must-haves.
Extras: Pack a reusable water bottle and an eco-friendly tote for your shopping.
Hacks for Japan:
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases like “Arigatou” (Thank you) and “Sumimasen” (Excuse me).
Use the Google Maps app to plan your train journeys & Keep Google Translate with Japanese downloaded all the time with you.
Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Lawson offer cheap and tasty meals.
Visa Advice:
Check the visa requirements for your country before travelling. Many countries are eligible for visa-free entry to Japan for short stays, but it’s best to confirm well in advance.
Japan is a blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity, offering something for everyone. With this 14-day plan, you’ll experience the very best of Japan, from its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems. Happy travels!
