14 Days Exploring Japan's Highlights Itinerary

Start your day with a peaceful stroll through Ueno Park (Ueno Koen). This large public park is home to several museums, including the Tokyo National Museum, where you can explore Japan's rich history and culture.

For lunch, head to the vibrant district of Akihabara. Explore the bustling streets filled with electronics shops, anime stores, and themed cafes. Don't miss out on visiting Akihabara itself for an immersive experience.

In the evening, make your way to Shibuya. Witness the famous Shibuya Crossing and explore the trendy shops and restaurants in this lively area. Enjoy dinner at one of Shibuya's popular eateries.

Begin your day with a visit to Ghibli Museum in Mitaka. This museum dedicated to Studio Ghibli offers a magical experience for fans of animated films. Be sure to book tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.

Head over to Odaiba for lunch and spend some time exploring this futuristic entertainment hub. Visit Odaiba Seaside Park (Oaidaba Kaihin Koen) for beautiful waterfront views and enjoy shopping at one of the many malls.

End your day with a visit to Tokyo Tower. This iconic landmark offers stunning night views of Tokyo's skyline. You can also enjoy dinner at one of the nearby restaurants.

Start your day with a visit to Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa Temple), one of Tokyo's most famous temples. Explore Nakamise Shopping Street leading up to the temple for traditional snacks and souvenirs.

For lunch, head over to Yanaka Ginza, an old-fashioned shopping street that retains its traditional charm. Explore Yanaka district known for its preserved historical atmosphere.

Conclude your exploration of traditional Tokyo by visiting Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu). Located in Shibuya, this serene shrine is surrounded by lush forested grounds, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.

Begin your Kyoto adventure with a visit to the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). This stunning Zen Buddhist temple is covered in gold leaf and surrounded by beautiful gardens, making it a perfect start to your day.

Head to the famous Nishiki Market for lunch. Known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen,' this market offers a wide variety of local delicacies and fresh produce. Spend some time exploring the stalls and sampling traditional Kyoto cuisine.

Conclude your day with a visit to Gion Corner. This cultural center offers traditional Japanese performances, including tea ceremonies, flower arranging, and Geisha dances. It's an excellent way to immerse yourself in Kyoto's rich cultural heritage.

Start your day with a peaceful visit to Ryoan-ji Temple & Garden. Famous for its rock garden, this temple offers a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection and relaxation.

For lunch, head over to Arashiyama. Explore the Arashiyama Park and take a stroll through the enchanting Bamboo Forest. Don't miss out on visiting the nearby Tenryu-ji Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site.

End your day with a visit to Pontocho Alley. This narrow alleyway along the Kamo River is lined with traditional wooden buildings housing restaurants and teahouses. Enjoy dinner at one of the many establishments offering delicious Kyoto cuisine.

Begin your day with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha). Famous for its thousands of red torii gates, this shrine offers scenic hiking trails leading up Mount Inari.

For lunch, explore the historic district of Higashiyama. Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, known for its wooden stage that offers stunning views of Kyoto. Wander through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka streets filled with traditional shops and cafes.

Conclude your historical exploration with a visit to Nijo-jo Castle. This UNESCO World Heritage site features beautiful gardens and impressive architecture from Japan's feudal era.

Start your Okinawa adventure by heading straight to one of its pristine beaches. Spend your morning relaxing on the white sands and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

For lunch, enjoy fresh seafood at one of Okinawa's beachside restaurants such as Okinawa. Afterward, explore more of Okinawa’s natural beauty by visiting local parks or taking part in water activities like snorkeling or kayaking.

End your day by experiencing Okinawan culture at one of its vibrant night markets or dining at another highly-rated restaurant like Santa Cruz or Bolivia, where you can enjoy local dishes infused with unique island flavors.

Begin your day with a visit to the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world. Marvel at the diverse marine life, including whale sharks and manta rays, and explore the various exhibits showcasing Okinawa's unique underwater ecosystems.

For lunch, head to a nearby restaurant such as Okinawa for some fresh seafood. Afterward, take a scenic drive along the coast to Cape Manzamo, a stunning cliff formation offering breathtaking views of the East China Sea.

Conclude your day with a visit to Kokusai Street in Naha. This bustling street is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. Enjoy dinner at Santa Cruz or Bolivia, where you can savor local Okinawan cuisine and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Start your Osaka adventure with a visit to Osaka Castle (Osaka-jo). This historic castle offers beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Dotonbori is your next stop for lunch. This lively district is famous for its street food and vibrant atmosphere. Try local specialties like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) from various food stalls.

Shinsaibashi is perfect for evening exploration. This shopping district offers a mix of high-end boutiques and quirky shops. Enjoy dinner at one of Shinsaibashi's popular restaurants such as かに道楽 道頓堀本店 or 一蘭 道頓堀店.

Umeda Sky Building is your first stop today. This architectural marvel offers an observation deck with stunning views of Osaka. Spend some time exploring the surrounding area filled with shops and cafes.

Kuromon Ichiba Market is perfect for lunch. Known as 'Osaka's Kitchen,' this market offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, meats, and produce. Sample local delicacies from various vendors.

America-Mura (American Village) is ideal for evening entertainment. This trendy area is known for its youthful vibe, street art, and eclectic shops. Enjoy dinner at one of America-Mura’s hip eateries like 串カツだるま 新世界総本店 or お好み焼き きじ 本店.

Begin your day with a visit to Shitenno-ji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest temples dating back to AD 593. Explore its beautiful grounds which include gardens and pagodas.

For lunch head over to Tennoji Park area where you can also visit Tennoji Zoo. The park offers plenty of green space for relaxation while enjoying local food from nearby vendors or cafes.

Conclude your historical exploration by visiting Tsutenkaku Tower. This iconic tower offers panoramic views over Osaka especially stunning during sunset followed by dinner at nearby popular spots like 松阪牛焼肉M 法善寺横丁店 or グリル梵 堂島本店.

Start your day with a visit to Osaka Museum of Housing and Living. This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Osaka's past, with life-sized replicas of historical buildings and streets.

For lunch, head to the vibrant district of Minami. Explore Minami and enjoy the local cuisine at one of the many eateries. Don't miss out on trying some delicious sushi at すしざんまい 道頓堀店.

Conclude your cultural immersion with a visit to National Bunraku Theater. Experience traditional Japanese puppet theater, which is a unique and captivating art form.

Spa World is perfect for your final morning in Osaka. Relax and rejuvenate in this massive hot spring complex that offers various themed baths from around the world.

For lunch, head over to Den Den Town (Nipponbashi). Explore Den Den Town (Nipponbashi), known for its electronics shops and anime stores. Enjoy some local street food while you shop.

End your trip with a visit to Utsubo Park. This urban park offers beautiful green spaces and is perfect for an evening stroll. Enjoy dinner at one of the nearby restaurants such as しゃぶ亭 西梅田店 or 天ぷら 大吉 天満橋本店 before heading back.