15 Days Exploring Japan's Rich Culture Itinerary

Take a morning train from Osaka to Himeji (approx. 1 hour). Start your day with a visit to Himeji Castle: Museum and Tower Entry Ticket. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Japan's most iconic castles, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.

After exploring Himeji Castle, join the Best of Himeji Castle and Gardens: 3hr Guided Walking Tour.. This tour will provide deeper insights into the history and significance of the castle complex. Enjoy lunch at Kassui-Ken, located within Koko-en Garden.

In the evening, travel to Kobe (approx. 30 minutes by train) for a special dinner experience at Misono Kobe Main Branch, famous for its delicious Kobe beef. After dinner, take a stroll around Meriken Park before heading back to Osaka.

Take an early train from Osaka to Nara (approx. 45 minutes). Begin your day with a visit to Nara Park, where you can interact with friendly deer that roam freely. Then head over to explore Todai-ji Temple, home to one of Japan's largest bronze Buddha statues.

Join the Osaka: Nara, Todaiji, Matcha Experience and Hot Spring Tour. This tour includes visits to historical sites like Kasuga Taisha Shrine as well as a matcha tea ceremony experience. Enjoy lunch at Nakatanidou, famous for its freshly made mochi.

Return to Kyoto in the evening (approx. 1 hour by train). Check into your hotel and have dinner at Gion Karyo, located in Kyoto’s historic Gion district. Take an evening stroll through Gion’s atmospheric streets before retiring for the night.

Start your day with a visit to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). This iconic Zen Buddhist temple is known for its stunning golden exterior and serene surrounding gardens. Take your time to explore the grounds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

After visiting Kinkaku-ji, head to Nijo-jo Castle. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past with its impressive architecture and beautiful gardens. Enjoy lunch at Mumokuteki Cafe, known for its healthy and delicious Japanese cuisine.

In the evening, join the Kyoto: Geisha Arts Gion Cultural Walk with Geisha Show. This tour provides an opportunity to learn about Kyoto's geisha culture and enjoy a traditional geisha performance. Have dinner at Pontocho Kappa Zushi, located in the historic Pontocho Alley.

Begin your day with a visit to Arashiyama Park. Explore the famous bamboo groves and take a stroll along the scenic paths. Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby Tenryu-ji Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site.

Join the Kyoto: Afternoon Bamboo Forest and Monkey Park Bike Tour. This tour will take you through Arashiyama's beautiful landscapes, including a visit to Iwatayama Monkey Park where you can see wild monkeys up close. Enjoy lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura, offering stunning views of the river.

In the evening, head back to central Kyoto for dinner at Ganko Sushi, known for its fresh sushi and traditional Japanese ambiance. After dinner, take an evening walk along the Kamogawa River (Kamo River) for a relaxing end to your day.

Travel from Kyoto to Hakone (approx. 2 hours by train). Start your day with a visit to Hakone Open-Air Museum. This unique museum features an impressive collection of sculptures set against a backdrop of beautiful natural scenery.

After exploring the museum, take a ride on the Hakone Ropeway for breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and Owakudani Valley. Enjoy lunch at Tamura Ginkatsutei, famous for its delicious tofu dishes.

In the evening, relax in one of Hakone's renowned hot springs (onsen). Join the Hakone: Traverse the Hakone Caldera and Enjoy Onsen tour for an immersive experience that includes access to some of Hakone's best onsen facilities. Have dinner at your ryokan or at Itoh Dining by Nobu before retiring for the night.

Start your day with a visit to Lake Ashi (Ashi-no-ko). This picturesque lake offers stunning views of Mount Fuji and is perfect for a relaxing boat cruise. Take the time to enjoy the serene atmosphere and capture some beautiful photos.

After exploring Lake Ashi, head to Owakudani. This volcanic valley is known for its hot springs and sulfur vents. You can take a short hike to see the geothermal activity up close and even try some black eggs, which are said to add seven years to your life! Enjoy lunch at Hakone Akatsukian, known for its delicious soba noodles.

In the evening, visit the Narukawa Art Museum. This museum features a collection of traditional Japanese paintings and offers panoramic views of Lake Ashi. Have dinner at Gora Brewery & Grill, where you can enjoy local craft beer and grilled dishes before heading back to your accommodation.

Travel from Hakone to Tokyo (approx. 1.5 hours by train). Start your day in Tokyo with a visit to Tokyo Tower: Admission Ticket. This iconic landmark offers stunning views of the city from its observation decks. Take your time to explore the tower and enjoy the panoramic vistas.

After visiting Tokyo Tower, head to Asakusa for a taste of traditional Tokyo. Join the Tokyo: Asakusa and Skytree Go-Kart Tour and Photo Shoot. This unique tour allows you to drive go-karts through the streets of Asakusa while dressed in fun costumes. Enjoy lunch at Asakusa Imahan, famous for its sukiyaki.

In the evening, experience Tokyo's vibrant nightlife with a visit to Shibuya. Join the Tokyo Pub Crawl for an exciting night out, exploring some of Shibuya's best bars and clubs. Have dinner at Izakaya Maruyama, known for its delicious izakaya dishes and lively atmosphere.

Start your day with a visit to Odaiba, an artificial island in Tokyo Bay known for its futuristic attractions. Explore teamLab Borderless, an immersive digital art museum that offers a unique sensory experience with its interactive exhibits.

After exploring teamLab Borderless, head over to DiverCity Tokyo Plaza for shopping and entertainment. Don't miss seeing the life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue outside! Enjoy lunch at Gundam Cafe, where you can indulge in themed dishes inspired by the popular anime series.

In the evening, take a relaxing cruise along Sumida River on a traditional yakatabune boat with dinner included (Sumida River: Japanese Traditional Yakatabune Dinner Cruise). Savor delicious Japanese cuisine while enjoying beautiful night views of Tokyo's skyline before returning back.

Begin your day with a visit to the historic Yanaka. This charming neighborhood offers a glimpse into Tokyo's past with its narrow streets, traditional houses, and old temples. Take a leisurely stroll and explore the local shops and cafes.

After exploring Yanaka, head to Ghibli Museum. This whimsical museum dedicated to the works of Studio Ghibli is a must-visit for fans of Japanese animation. Enjoy lunch at Straw Hat Cafe within the museum, which offers themed dishes inspired by Ghibli films.

In the evening, join the Tokyo: Private City Highlights Tour with Local Guide. This tour will take you to some of Tokyo's most iconic landmarks, including Shibuya Crossing and Meiji Shrine. Have dinner at Izakaya Toyo, known for its delicious izakaya dishes and lively atmosphere.

Start your day with a visit to teamLab Planets TOKYO: Digital Art Museum Entrance Ticket. This immersive digital art museum offers a unique sensory experience with its interactive exhibits. Take your time to explore the various installations.

After visiting teamLab Planets, head over to Odaiba for more futuristic attractions. Explore DiverCity Tokyo Plaza for shopping and entertainment. Enjoy lunch at Gundam Cafe, where you can indulge in themed dishes inspired by the popular anime series.

In the evening, take a relaxing cruise along Sumida River on a traditional yakatabune boat with dinner included (Sumida River: Japanese Traditional Yakatabune Dinner Cruise). Savor delicious Japanese cuisine while enjoying beautiful night views of Tokyo's skyline before returning back.

Start your day with a visit to Tsukiji Outer Market. Join the Tokyo: Tsukiji Outer Market Food and Drink Walking Tour. This tour will take you through the bustling market, where you can sample fresh seafood and other local delicacies. Enjoy breakfast at Sushizanmai, known for its delicious sushi.

After exploring Tsukiji, head to Akihabara, Tokyo's famous electronics district. Spend some time browsing the shops and arcades. For lunch, visit Gundam Cafe, where you can enjoy themed dishes inspired by the popular anime series.

In the evening, experience Tokyo's vibrant nightlife with a visit to Shinjuku. Join the Tokyo: Shinjuku Izakaya and Golden Gai Bar Hopping Tour. This tour will take you to some of Shinjuku's best bars and izakayas. Have dinner at Omoide Yokocho, known for its delicious izakaya dishes.

Begin your day with a visit to Asakusa. Explore Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest temple, and stroll through Nakamise Shopping Street. Join the Tokyo: Private City Highlights Tour with Local Guide for an in-depth exploration of Asakusa's cultural heritage.

After visiting Asakusa, head to Ueno Park. Visit Ueno Zoo and explore the various museums within the park, such as Tokyo National Museum and Ueno Royal Museum. Enjoy lunch at Inshotei, located within Ueno Park and offering traditional Japanese cuisine.

In the evening, take a relaxing cruise along Sumida River on a traditional yakatabune boat with dinner included (Sumida River: Japanese Traditional Yakatabune Dinner Cruise). Savor delicious Japanese cuisine while enjoying beautiful night views of Tokyo's skyline before returning back.

Spend your final morning in Japan visiting Roppongi Hills for some last-minute shopping and sightseeing. Enjoy breakfast at Mori Art Museum Cafe, offering stunning views of Tokyo from its rooftop terrace.

After exploring Roppongi Hills, head to Odaiba for more shopping and entertainment options. Visit DiverCity Tokyo Plaza and enjoy lunch at Gundam Cafe before heading back to your hotel to pack up.

In the evening, take one last stroll through Shibuya Crossing before heading to Haneda Airport for your flight back home. Have dinner at Izakaya Toyo, known for its delicious izakaya dishes and lively atmosphere.

Take an early train from Tokyo to Nikko (approx. 2 hours). Start your day with a visit to Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Waterfall Tour. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful natural surroundings.

After exploring Toshogu Shrine, head over to Kegon Waterfall. Join the tour that includes both attractions for an in-depth experience of Nikko's cultural and natural beauty. Enjoy lunch at Meiji no Yakata, offering delicious Western-style cuisine in a historic setting.

Return to Tokyo in the evening (approx. 2 hours by train). Have dinner at Sushi Zanmai, known for its fresh sushi and lively atmosphere. Take an evening stroll through Ginza before retiring for the night.