Where do I start? This was my first time in Japan and trust me when I say that I was struggling to plan the itinerary. If it's your first time to Japan you're probably overwhelmed with all the information online. I've made it easier for you and have put together my 2-week itinerary to help you plan your trip to this fascinating country.
You'll be able to explore from the mountains to the sea, wondering through chaotic neon-lined streets and serene Zen temples, soaking in onsens and filling yourself with more ramen and sushi than you thought possible.
DAY 1: Arrival
Most likely you’ll be flying into Tokyo, Japan’s metropolitan capital city which has two international airports, Narita Airport and Haneda Airport. Of the two, Haneda is closer to central Tokyo, but there are a number of express trains and buses that go into the city from either airport. If you're coming from afar, this is likely going to be a hectic day that passes in a haze of jet-lag. Make sure to take it easy on your first day as you need to build up your energy and be fully rested, ready for your first day in this chaotic city!
You can easily spend a whole month in Tokyo or feel ready to leave in two weeks. That's the thing about Japanese cities - they are INTENSE and up to you to decide if you like it or not. Tokyo has an endless list of attractions, but you can get a lot done as long as you have a plan!
DAY 2: Shinjuku
On day 2, head over to Shinjuku to experience the number one busiest train station in thw world, along with towering skyscrapers, neon lights, and massive department stores and electronics shops. I would recommend you start your day at Hanazono Jinja Shrine! A beautiful, peaceful shrine and a great place to reflect. Once you've took in your first dose of history head over to Omoide Yokocho market and street food. Tiny restaurants and open barbecue food stalls spill their smoke, noise and greasy steam over alleys hardly wide enough to stretch out your arms. It's people watching at its best!
End your day with spectacular views of Tokyo from one of the city's most imposing complexes. Most people wouldn't think to make a government building a travel destination, but the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is well worth a visit. Also know as Tocho, it's Tokyo's fifth-tallest structure and has observation decks on each of the spires that offer all-encompassing views of the city below. Did I mention that this is free to do?
DAY 3: Mount Fuji
Enjoy a stunning view of the world-famous Mt. Fuji with a visit to Kawaguchiko. The Panoramic Ropeway offers you an amazing view of the city whilst overlooking Lake Kawaguchi. On the other hand, if you're planning on climbing the 3,776-meter summit you can only do so between July and August.
DAY 4: Taito
Start your day off bright and early by visiting Senso-ji Temple which is dedicated to the goddess of compassion and mercy. Asakusa's iconic temple. with over 30 million visitors every year, is one of Taito Ward's most popular attraction.
Once you have worked up an appetite, why not wonder down Nakamise Street? This shopping street is located right beside Sensoji Temple and is one of Japan's oldest shopping strips, dating back to the 17th century. Stalls include a wide range of traditional goods and foods, such as umbrellas, fans, ningyo-yaki (small cakes filled with red bean paste), senbei (rice crackers) and matsuri (festival) wear.
DAY 5: Shibuya
The Shibuya Crossing is the star attraction in Shibuya but also in the whole of Tokyo. With 3,000 people crossing at peak times, Shibuya is an amazing sight to behold. Grab a coffee at the Shibuya Tsutaya Starbucks for a birds eye view of the pedestrian scramble.
Once you have taken in enough chaos for one day why not visit a manga or maid café to relax. If Manga is your thing, you will find plenty of manga cafes in this area, where you can rent a booth and have access to an entire collection of manga and anime books. On the other hand, if you're looking for a bizarre yet interesting experience then head over to a maid cafe where you can expect women dressed as maids dancing, singing and making unique characters out of your food and drinks. Chances are you'll leave more baffled than when you arrived.
No trip to Shibuya is complete without enjoying the classic sushi. There are plenty of sushi bars scattered all around Shibuya but look out for the sushi train restaurants as they are fun, fresh and cheap.
Shibuya is filled with malls, shopping streets and department stores where you can shop the latest pop culture crazes, anime figures or just spend your day at game and entertainment centres.
DAY 6: Osaka Castle
This was one of my favorite attractions! Osaka castle dates back from 1583 when it was first built using 100,000 workers to get the building finished. While the castle standing today has been reconstructed many times, there are still numerous areas of the park that are considered cultural assets. Once inside the castle you can check out the selection weaponry as well as art work and there is also an observation deck on the 8th floor where you can take in a panoramic view of the park and wider Osaka.
DAY 7: Tennoji
Start by visiting Japan's oldest Buddhist temple, Shitennoji, which was built in CE 593 and was the first state-funded temple in Japan. Try to plan your trip to Shitennoji to coincide with the temple's flea market, which is a great opportunity to pick up second-hand kimonos, antiques or perhaps a piece of Japanese pottery.
High above the hustle and bustle of the city looms the Abeno Harukas, Japan's tallest building, scraping the sky at 300 meters. Head over to Harukas 300 observatory where you can see the entire city of Osaka.
DAY 8: Dotonbori
The city's main artery, this street epitomises Osaka culture. Look for the Kuidaore clown slowly banging his drum and, from the bridge, don't miss the famous selfie spot with the LED Glico Man running across the world. It's worth peeking into Don Quixote to find every KitKat flavour imaginable. Further down, the Shinsaibaishi shotengai is one of Osaka's longest shopping arcades. The arcade is jam-packed with restaurants and cafes serving everything from waffles and crepes to pizzas.
Dotonbori is known in Osaka as the place to come if you want to go out and enjoy the best of the city. This part of Osaka is the central hub of bars, restaurants and cafes. Soemoncho is the heart of the evening exuberance with a range of bars and karaoke joints staying open until the early hours of the morning.
DAY 9: Nara Park
From the adorably polite deer that roam the city to the intricate Shinto shrines and thousand-year-old temple, Nara is just a short trip from both Osaka and Kyoto.
Let's start with Nara Park since this is where many of the city's attractions are located and where you're most likely to do your sightseeing. Within this public park, you'll find temples, shrines, museums and walk trails. The park also happens to be home to around 1200 sika deer who roam freely.
The main attraction in Nara Park is Todai-ji Temple, which was once the wrold's largest wooden building. Inside Todai-ji, you're met with this giant bronze statue that stands 15 meters tall and dates back to 752.
Now lets talk about the main draw to Nara: the deer! The park is home to a controlled population of free-roaming deer (that bow!). The deer are considered Shinto messengers from God and are designated as a Japanese national treasure. The quickest way to befriend a deer is with treats, and thankfully there are lots of licensed vendors selling crackers made for the deer. These are called 'shika senbei' and you can get the for ¥150. Be warned that the deer can sniff out the crackers, once you have them be prepared for a herd of deer following you! The deer tend to bow before you offer them a cracker but they can also be quite persistent and nip if you're not feeding them fast enough or if you're stingy with the treats.
DAY 10: Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine (Kyoto)
The Fushimi Inari taisha shrine is probably one of the most recognizable icons in Kyoto followed by the bamboo forest. The bright colored orange torii gates have made this place a top photography and spot in Kyoto.
Make sure you have appropriate walking shoes on, as its a 2-3 hour hike to the top! There are a lot of small shrines with mini torii gates which you can admire along the way as well as using them to catch your breath. At some point you'll want to look at the map to make sure you're going the right direction. There might be some parts that are a bit confusing and you'll wonder if you're going the wrong way. Do not worry! There are only two paths, which both lead to the top. Half of the journey is uphill so I suggest you bring plenty of water and snacks with you. You can often find a few small restaurants along your way which are only open during peak times, although the prices are quite high. In addition, you can find vending machines along the path, where you can buy yourself a bottle of cold water.
Once you've reached the top you can admire the wonderful view of Kyoto as well as catching your breath ready to descend. Once you've reached the end of the hike, you can wonder the streets of Teramachi whilst enjoying some of the tradition food stalls.
Day 11: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Monkey Park (Kyoto)
The monkey farm can be found in the Arashiyama mountains but beware that you'll have to hike up the hill for approximately 15 minutes, to the central monkey area. Once at the top, you'll be welcomed by plenty of monkeys roaming the grounds freely as well as a 180 degree view of Arashiyama!
Once you've taken in the breathtaking view, make your way to the Bamboo forest. Imagine gazing upon endless stalks that tower above you, allowing sunlight to filter through gently. There is just one main path through the grove, which leads slowly uphill. The bamboo grove is open 24 hours a day and has no admission fee, so it's recommended that during peak seasons, you visit it early in the morning or at sunset.
Day 12: Nishiki Market (Kyoto)
Nishiki Market is a narrow, five block long shopping street lined by more that one hundred shops and restaurants. As well as street food and ingredients, you can find plenty of kitchen-related things in Nishiki- from tableware to knives to personalized chopsticks. The food market is open daily from 10am to 6pm but its recommended to visit during the middle of your day if possible.
One of the best ways to explore Nishiki Ichiba (Market) is by taste! There are some snacks you might recognize with others a little more unusual. Depending on how adventures you feel, here's some of the best food you can find.
• Tako tamago: a small baby octopus with a quail's egg inside the head.
• Sesame dumplings: small balls with a variety of flavors, these are sweet or savory, with cheese options too.
• Fresh grapefruit juice
• Mochi: a sweet you'll have seen across Japan. A sticky rice cake that comes in many forms.
• Senbei: rice crackers with different seasoning.
• Pickled vegetables
• Fresh tofu
• Tamagoyaki: Japanese omelette
• Wagashi: Japanese sweets
Day 13: Sumo Wrestlers
Sumo is serious in Japan and the national sport is steeped in tradition. Matches still include rituals that date back to its ancient origins as part of Shinto religion such as purifying the ring with salt.
You can see sumo wrestling at one of the sumo tournaments that happen a few times a year or take a tour of a sumo stable in Tokyo or Osaka to see wrestlers' morning training session. Tournaments happen in Tokyo in January, May and September and Osaka in March.
Day 14: Onsen
No trip in Japan is complete without a relaxing dip in an onsen. Onsens are natural hot springs, fueled by volcanic activity, as well as the resort atmosphere that has emerged around many such springs. Depending on what region you are in, you'll be able to finish your trip by unwinding just in time for your departure.
Here is a list of the top 10 across Japan:
Fuji Kawaguchiko Onsen
Hakone Onsen
Beppu Onsen
Yufuin Onsen
Kurokawa Onsen
Noboribetsu Onsen
Kinosaki Onsen
Dogo Onsen
Kusatsu Onsen
Ibusuki Onsen
Thank you!