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Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo, a bustling metropolis, blends ultramodern skyscrapers and traditional historic temples. It’s a city of contrasts, offering vibrant shopping districts, serene gardens, and cutting-edge technology alongside ancient traditions.
Travel Hack: Use the extensive network of JR trains and subway lines with a prepaid Suica or Pasmo card. For sightseeing, consider the Tokyo Metropolitan District Pass (Tokunai Pass) for unlimited travel on JR East trains within Tokyo's 23 wards.
☑️ Day 1: Shibuya and Shinjuku
- Morning: Arrive and get settled. Start with a visit to the Meiji Shrine, a serene space surrounded by forest.
- Afternoon: Head to Shibuya to see the Shibuya Crossing from the Hachiko exit of Shibuya Station. Explore Shibuya 109 for shopping.
- Evening: Visit Shinjuku. Have dinner at an izakaya in Omoide Yokocho. See the view from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.
☑️ Day 2: Asakusa and Akihabara
- Morning: Explore Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Have breakfast at Nakamise Street.
- Afternoon: Head to Akihabara for electronics, anime, and manga. Visit a maid café.
- Evening: Experience a themed restaurant or café in Akihabara.
☑️ Day 3: Harajuku and Omotesando
- Morning: Visit Yoyogi Park and the adjacent Meiji Shrine.
- Afternoon: Walk through Takeshita Street in Harajuku for quirky shopping. Lunch at a trendy café.
- Evening: Explore Omotesando for high-end shopping and architecture. Dine in one of the sophisticated restaurants.
🛌 Where to Sleep:
- Budget: Khaosan Tokyo Samurai Capsule – Located in Asakusa, offering a modern capsule hotel experience with shared facilities. Price: €20-€30 per person per night.
- Regular: Shinjuku Granbell Hotel – Situated in the vibrant area of Shinjuku, this hotel offers stylish rooms with great city views. Price: €70-€120 per person per night.
- Luxury: Park Hyatt Tokyo – Famous from "Lost in Translation," located in Shinjuku, it offers luxurious rooms and exceptional service. Price: €400-€600 per person per night.
🍱 Where to Eat:
- Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu - Inspiration for the fighting scene in "Kill Bill," known for its skewers (yakitori) and ambiance. Average Price: €25-€40 per person
- Tsukiji Outer Market - Fresh seafood, sushi, and street food stalls. A great place for breakfast or lunch. Average Price: €10-€30 per person, depending on selections.
- Afuri Ramen - Known for Yuzu Shio Ramen; light and refreshing with a yuzu (Japanese citrus) twist. Average Price: €10-€15 per person
🎁 Souvenir Idea: Edo Kiriko Glassware, a traditional Japanese craft of cut glass that originated in Tokyo during the Edo Period. These beautifully patterned glasses are perfect for sake, whiskey, or even as decorative pieces.
You can find them in shops in the Asakusa area or specialised craft stores in Tokyo.
- Tokyo: Shibuya, Harajuku, and Omotesando Go Kart Tour
- Tokyo: Shinjuku Local Bar and Izakaya Guided Walking Tour
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Fujikawaguchiko, Japan
☑️ Day 4: Fuji Five Lakes
- Morning: Depart early for Kawaguchiko Station. Visit the Chureito Pagoda for iconic views of Mt. Fuji.
- Afternoon: Go to the Fuji-Q Highland if you enjoy amusement parks, or take a leisurely boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko.
- Evening: Return to Tokyo. Dinner in a local Tokyo neighbourhood, exploring a different area, perhaps Ginza for upscale dining.
(Return to Tokyo for the night)
🎁 Souvenir Idea: Fujiyama Glass, a beautifully crafted glass that, when filled, gives the illusion of Mt. Fuji. It’s a functional piece of art, capturing the beauty of Japan’s iconic mountain.
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Tokyo, Japan
🚶♀️Other Must-Do's:
- Tsukiji Outer Market
Start your day early with a visit to the Tsukiji Outer Market, where the energy of Tokyo's food scene truly comes to life. Although the wholesale fish market has moved to Toyosu, Tsukiji's outer market remains a vibrant hub of food stalls, restaurants, and shops selling fresh seafood, vegetables, and kitchenware. Enjoy a sushi breakfast or try various Japanese street foods.
- Toyosu Market
Continue your culinary adventure at the Toyosu Market, the world’s largest wholesale fish and seafood market. You can observe the auction from dedicated viewing platforms, explore the Uogashi Yokocho Market within Toyosu for dining and shopping, and visit the rooftop garden for views of Tokyo Bay.
- Odaiba
Head to Odaiba, a popular shopping and entertainment district on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. Attractions include the futuristic teamLab Borderless museum, Palette Town, Oedo Onsen Monogatari (a hot springs theme park), and several shopping malls. The area also offers great views of the Rainbow Bridge and a replica of the Statue of Liberty. Take the Yurikamome Line from Shimbashi Station to Odaiba for a scenic ride over the Rainbow Bridge. The front car offers the best views if you can get a seat.
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Kanazawa, Japan
Kanazawa, often referred to as "Little Kyoto," is renowned for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, art museums, and regional crafts. The city is a cultural gem, home to the beautiful Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's "three best landscape gardens."
Travel Hack: Kanazawa is compact and very walkable, but for covering more ground, take advantage of the Kanazawa Loop Bus, which connects all major attractions. The one-day pass for unlimited rides is especially cost-effective.
☑️ Day 5: Gardens and Historical Districts
- Morning: Visit Kenrokuen Garden, then Kanazawa Castle located nearby.
- Afternoon: Explore the Nagamachi Samurai District and the Higashi Chaya District. Have tea in a traditional teahouse.
- Evening: Dinner at Omicho Market, known for fresh seafood and local dishes.
☑️ Day 6: Arts and Crafts
- Morning: Start at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Afternoon: Visit the Kanazawa Kutani Kosen Pottery Studio for a pottery workshop. Explore the Myoryuji - Ninja Temple.
- Evening: Stroll through the Nishi Chaya District. Try gold leaf soft serve.
🛌 Where to Sleep:
- Budget: Guesthouse Nagonde – A cozy guesthouse offering a traditional Japanese stay experience with futons and tatami floors. Price: €25-€40 per person per night.
- Regular: Hotel Mystays Premier Kanazawa – Conveniently located with spacious, modern rooms and great amenities. Price: €60-€90 per person per night.
- Luxury: Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel – Situated in the heart of Kanazawa, offering elegant rooms and high-end facilities. Price: €150-€250 per person per night.
🍱 Where to Eat:
- Kanazawa Omicho Market - Know for fresh seafood, sushi, and Kanazawa specialties. Numerous stalls and small restaurants. Average Price: €10-€30 per person, varies by stall or restaurant.
- Mori Mori Sushi Kanazawa Kenrokuen - Known for Kaiten (conveyor belt) sushi with fresh, local seafood selections. Average Price: €20-€35 per person
- Itaru Honten - Known for seasonal kaiseki (multi-course) meals and local Ishikawa prefecture cuisine. Average Price: €50-€100 per person
🎁 Souvenir Idea: Kaga Yuzen Silk, a form of traditional silk dyeing known for its vivid colours and nature-inspired patterns. It’s used in making kimonos and various accessories. You can find them in traditional craft shops in Kanazawa, especially near the Higashi Chaya district.
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Takayama, Japan
Takayama is a charming city in the heart of the Hida Mountains, known for its beautifully preserved old town. It offers a glimpse into Japan's past, with traditional wooden merchant houses and morning markets dating back to the Edo Period.
Travel Hack: Explore the city early in the morning to enjoy the morning markets and the old town's streets almost to yourself. Many attractions are free or have a very low entry cost, making it a budget-friendly destination.
☑️ Day 7: Old Town Exploration
- Morning: Visit the morning markets. Breakfast on local specialties.
- Afternoon: Explore Takayama Old Town. Visit Takayama Jinya and the Hida Folk Village.
- Evening: Dine at a local izakaya or restaurant specialising in Hida beef.
🛌 Where to Sleep:
- Budget: Relax Hostel Takayama Station - Dormitory beds typically range from €20 to €30 per night, making it an affordable option for solo travellers and backpackers. Prices can vary based on the season and availability, so it's advisable to book in advance.
- Regular: Takayama Ouan – A beautiful ryokan offering a traditional Japanese experience with hot spring baths. Price: €100-€150 per person per night, including breakfast.
- Luxury: Hidatei Hanaougi – A luxurious ryokan with exquisite meals and private onsen options, located slightly outside the city centre for a more secluded feel. Price: €250-€400 per person per night, including dinner and breakfast.
🍱 Where to Eat:
- Center4 Hamburgers - High-quality Hida beef burgers in a cozy café setting. Average Price: €10-€15 per person
- Heianraku - Chinese cuisine with a Japanese twist; a favourite among locals and tourists. Average Price: €15-€25 per person
- Sakaguchiya - Hida beef sushi and other local specialties. Average Price: €20-€30 per person
🎁 Souvenir Idea: Sarubobo Doll, a traditional Japanese amulet, particularly popular in the Hida region. These faceless dolls are thought to bring good luck and happiness. You can find them in souvenir shops throughout Takayama, especially in the old town area.
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Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan, an enchanting city brimming with ancient temples, shrines, traditional tea houses, and gardens. It was the capital of Japan for over a millennium, and its historic atmosphere is palpable.
Travel Hack: To save on transportation costs and experience Kyoto intimately, rent a bike. Many of the city’s attractions are more accessible by bike, and you’ll enjoy the freedom to explore hidden alleys and neighbourhoods at your own pace.
☑️ Day 8: Southern Higashiyama
- Morning: Fushimi Inari Shrine early to beat the crowds. Climb as far as you’re comfortable.
- Afternoon: Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Explore Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka slopes.
- Evening: Gion for dinner. Walk through Hanamikoji Street for geisha sightings.
☑️ Day 9: Arashiyama and the Golden Pavilion
- Morning: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove early. Visit Tenryu-ji Temple.
- Afternoon: Go to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. Visit Ryoan-ji Temple if time allows.
- Evening: Pontocho Alley for dining along the Kamo River.
☑️ Day 10: Philosophers' Path and Nijo Castle
- Morning: Start at Ginkaku-ji and walk the Philosopher’s Path.
- Afternoon: Visit Nijo Castle. Explore the beautiful gardens and historical buildings.
- Evening: Nishiki Market for dinner. Try local specialties and street food.
🛌 Where to Sleep:
- Budget: Piece Hostel Sanjo – Located in the Nakagyo Ward, this hostel offers a modern and social atmosphere. Price: €25-€40 per person per night.
- Regular: Hotel Granvia Kyoto – Located within Kyoto Station, this hotel offers convenience and comfort with easy access to transport. Price: €90-€140 per person per night.
- Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto – Situated on the banks of the Kamogawa River, offering luxurious rooms and exceptional service. Price: €500-€700 per person per night.
🍱 Where to Eat:
- Omen Ginkakuji - Known for Omen Ginkakuji specialises in udon noodles served in a variety of ways, including hot and cold dishes. Average Price: €10-€20 per person, depending on your order.
- Giro Giro Hitoshina - Innovative kaiseki that's more affordable than most. Reservation recommended. Average Price: €40-€50 per person
- Yamamotomenzo - Exceptional udon, especially popular are their curry udon and tempura udon. Average Price: €8-€15 per person
🎁 Souvenir Idea: Kiyomizu-yaki, a type of Kyoto ceramic ware, known for its intricate designs and bright colours. Items range from teacups to decorative plates. You can find them in pottery shops in the Kiyomizu-dera temple area.
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Osaka, Japan
Osaka is known for its outgoing people, vibrant food scene, and the neon-lit Dotonbori district. It’s a city that loves to eat, earning it the nickname "Japan's kitchen." Osaka is more laid-back than Tokyo but equally engaging.
Travel Hack: For the best food experiences, venture into the backstreets and smaller alleys off the main areas. Look for places packed with locals; they often serve the best and most authentic dishes at reasonable prices.
☑️ Day 11: Osaka Castle and Dotonbori
- Morning: Visit Osaka Castle. Explore the museum and park.
- Afternoon: Head to the Umeda Sky Building for city views.
- Evening: Explore Dotonbori. Enjoy street food and neon lights. Try takoyaki.
☑️ Day 12: Universal Studios Japan
- Day: Spend the day at Universal Studios Japan.
- Evening: Return to Dotonbori or explore the Shinsekai district for dinner and atmosphere.
☑️ Day 13: Minami (Namba)
- Morning: Kuromon Ichiba Market for breakfast and shopping.
- Afternoon: Visit the Shitenno-ji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest temples.
- Evening: Back to Namba for any last-minute shopping or dining. Try okonomiyaki.
🛌 Where to Sleep:
- Budget: J-Hoppers Osaka Universal - Situated in close proximity to Universal Studios Japan. Prices for a bed in a dormitory room typically range from €20 to €30 per night, making it a very affordable option for travellers.
- Regular: Cross Hotel Osaka – Situated in the bustling area of Shinsaibashi, this hotel offers stylish rooms and great amenities. Price: €80-€120 per person per night.
- Luxury: Conrad Osaka – Offering breathtaking city views and luxurious accommodations in the heart of Osaka. Price: €300-€500 per person per night.
🍱 Where to Eat:
- Kuromon Market - Street food and fresh seafood; try the grilled scallops, takoyaki, and sushi. Average Price: €5-€25 per person, depending on selections.
- Mizuno - Know n for Okonomiyaki; known as one of the best okonomiyaki restaurants in Osaka. Average Price: €10-€20 per person
- Kani Doraku Dotonbori Honten - Crab specialties in various forms; iconic moving crab sign outside. Average Price: €40-€70 per person, depending on the crab dishes chosen.
🎁 Souvenir Idea: Takoyaki-flavored Snacks are ball-shaped octopus snacks, including crackers and chips, make a tasty and unique souvenir. You can find them in snack shops in the Dotonbori area or any major supermarket in Osaka.
- Osaka: Shinsekai Food Tour with 13 Dishes at 5 Eateries
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Nara, Japan
☑️ Day 14: Nara Park and Temples
- Morning to Afternoon: Visit Todai-ji Temple to see the Great Buddha. Explore Nara Park and visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Feed the deer.
- Evening: Return to Osaka for dinner or prepare for your return to Tokyo.
🥘 Places to Eat:
- Nakatanidou- Known for Mochi (pounded rice cakes), especially famous for their fast mochi-pounding performances. Average Price: €5-€10 per person for mochi snacks.
- Edogawa Naramachi - Known for Unagi (eel) dishes, served in a variety of styles.
Average Price: €25-€50 per person
- Kameya - Traditional Japanese sweets, perfect for a light snack or dessert after exploring Nara. Average Price: €5-€10 per person for sweets.
🎁 Souvenir Idea: Nara Fude (Calligraphy Brushes) is a perfect gift for art enthusiasts or those appreciative of Japanese culture. Find it at a stationery store in Nara, especially near major temples or the Nara National Museum.
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Tokyo, Japan
☑️ Day 15: Departure or Tokyo Leisure
- Morning/Afternoon: Depending on your flight, explore a Tokyo neighborhood you missed or would like to revisit.
- Evening: Depart from Tokyo, or enjoy one last evening in the city if your schedule allows.