17-Day Tokyo, Nakasendo Trail, and Kyoto Adventure Itinerary

Begin your day at Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu), one of Tokyo's most important Shinto shrines. Located in a lush forested area, this shrine offers a serene environment for reflection and prayer. Don't forget to write your wishes on an ema (wooden plaque) before you leave.

For lunch, head to Harajuku and explore its vibrant streets filled with trendy shops and cafes. Afterward, visit Harajuku, known for its quirky fashion scene and youth culture. Continue your cultural exploration by visiting Ghibli Museum in Mitaka. This museum is dedicated to the works of Studio Ghibli and offers an enchanting experience for fans of Japanese animation.

End your day with dinner at one of Harajuku's popular eateries before heading to Shinjuku Golden Gai. This area is famous for its narrow alleys filled with tiny bars and pubs offering unique atmospheres.

Start your day with a visit to Ueno Park (Ueno Koen). This spacious public park is home to several museums, including the Tokyo National Museum, as well as beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.

For lunch, head over to Ameya-Yokocho Market near Ueno Park where you can find various street food options. Afterward, visit Tokyo National Museum located within Ueno Park itself which houses an extensive collection of art & artifacts from Japan & other Asian countries.

In the evening make your way towards Asakusa district where you can explore Nakamise Shopping Street leading up towards Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa Temple). Enjoy traditional Japanese snacks along Nakamise Street before visiting Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa Temple) which is Tokyo’s oldest temple dating back over 1300 years.

Begin your day by visiting one of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks -{ A-Tokyo Skytree [7830]}. Standing at 634 meters tall it offers panoramic views across entire city from observation decks located at top floors.

After enjoying breathtaking views from Skytree head towards Odaiba area where you can have lunch at one many waterfront restaurants followed by visit Odaiba Seaside Park(Oaidaba Kaihin Koen). Relax on sandy beach or take part various recreational activities available there like paddle boarding etc.. Later explore futuristic shopping malls & entertainment complexes around Odaiba such as Palette Town or DiverCity Tokyo Plaza featuring life-size Gundam statue outside mall entrance!

Conclude Day 4 with dinner cruise along Sumida River offering spectacular night-time views illuminated skyline including landmarks like Rainbow Bridge & Skytree itself! Alternatively if prefer land-based option then dine at one fine dining establishments located within Odaiba area itself offering great food coupled amazing night-time vistas!

Start your day with a visit to Fujiko F Fujio Museum (Doraemon Museum). This museum is dedicated to the beloved manga and anime character Doraemon, created by Fujiko F. Fujio. The museum offers interactive exhibits, original artwork, and a chance to immerse yourself in the world of Doraemon.

Head over to Sanrio Puroland for lunch and an afternoon of fun. This indoor theme park is dedicated to Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty, My Melody, and Gudetama. Enjoy themed attractions, parades, and character meet-and-greets.

In the evening, explore Memory Lane (Omoide Yokocho). This narrow alleyway in Shinjuku is lined with tiny eateries serving yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and other Japanese delicacies. It's a great place to experience Tokyo's nostalgic atmosphere while enjoying delicious food.

Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum is a perfect start for history enthusiasts. This open-air museum showcases historical buildings from the Edo period to the early Showa period. Wander through reconstructed streetscapes and gain insights into Tokyo's architectural evolution.

Akihabara awaits you in the afternoon. Known as Tokyo's electric town, Akihabara is a haven for tech enthusiasts and anime fans alike. Explore multi-story electronics stores, manga shops, and themed cafes while enjoying lunch at one of the many eateries in the area.

Shinjuku Park (Shinjuku Gyoen) offers a serene escape from the bustling city life in the evening. Take a leisurely stroll through its beautifully landscaped gardens featuring traditional Japanese designs along with French & English garden styles too! End your day with dinner at one of Shinjuku’s highly-rated restaurants.

Yokohama Zoo ''Zoorasia'' is an excellent choice for animal lovers. Located just outside Tokyo in Yokohama City this expansive zoo features various themed zones representing different habitats around world showcasing diverse range animals including rare species like okapi & red pandas!

Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum (Shinyokohama Raumen Museum) makes for an ideal lunch spot post zoo visit! It’s not just museum but also functioning ramen theme park where can sample different regional varieties ramen from across Japan all under one roof! After satisfying your taste buds head back towards central Tokyo & spend rest afternoon exploring trendy shopping district Ginza known its luxury boutiques flagship stores international brands!

Conclude Day 7 by visiting Roppongi. Renowned its vibrant nightlife scene filled upscale bars nightclubs art galleries fine dining establishments etc.. Enjoy dinner followed drinks while soaking up lively atmosphere this cosmopolitan district!

Begin your day early by traveling from Tokyo to Magome Juku which part historic Nakasendo Trail connecting Kyoto Edo(now Tokyo). Start your hike along trail surrounded scenic countryside landscapes lush greenery mountains streams etc.. Magome itself well-preserved post town featuring traditional wooden buildings cobblestone streets offering glimpse into Japan’s past during Edo period.

Continue hiking towards Tsumago another beautifully preserved post town located further along Nakasendo Trail where can stop lunch at local eatery serving regional specialties before exploring historical sites such as Honjin former inn used feudal lords their retinues during travels between Kyoto Edo.

Spend evening relaxing Magome Juku perhaps staying overnight traditional ryokan(inn) experiencing authentic Japanese hospitality including multi-course kaiseki dinner hot spring baths(on-site if available). Reflect upon journey so far amidst tranquil surroundings preparing next leg adventure!

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

Head over to Arashiyama for lunch at one of the local eateries. Afterward, visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a mesmerizing forest of towering bamboo stalks. The area also offers scenic views of the Hozu River and nearby mountains.

In the evening, explore Gion, Kyoto's famous geisha district. Stroll through its historic streets lined with traditional wooden machiya houses. Enjoy dinner at a kaiseki restaurant where you can savor a multi-course meal featuring seasonal ingredients.

Begin your day at Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto's most important Shinto shrines. Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a path up Mount Inari, this site offers both spiritual significance and breathtaking views.

For lunch, head to Nishiki Market, known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen.' This bustling market street is filled with vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Afterward, visit Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the residence of Tokugawa shoguns during their visits to Kyoto.

Conclude your day with a visit to Pontocho Alley along the Kamogawa River. This narrow alleyway is famous for its traditional teahouses and restaurants offering riverside dining experiences. Enjoy dinner while taking in views of the river.

Start your day by visiting Kiyomizu-dera Temple located on eastern hills overlooking city center offering panoramic views across entire cityscape below! Explore temple complex including main hall supported wooden pillars extending cliffside plus Otowa Waterfall believed grant wishes those drink from it!

Head towards Higashiyama District where can have lunch at one many traditional eateries before exploring narrow lanes filled shops selling local crafts souvenirs such pottery textiles etc.. Don’t miss out visiting Yasaka Pagoda five-story pagoda dating back centuries providing great photo opportunities amidst historical surroundings!

Spend evening relaxing Maruyama Park located nearby which especially beautiful during cherry blossom season when entire park transforms into sea pink flowers attracting visitors both locals tourists alike! Enjoy dinner nearby restaurant serving regional specialties such yudofu(tofu hot pot) or kaiseki cuisine multi-course meal showcasing seasonal ingredients prepared meticulously!

Begin Day 12 by traveling outskirts city visiting Ohara rural village nestled amongst mountains north-eastern part Kyoto Prefecture known its picturesque landscapes tranquil ambiance perfect escape hustle bustle urban life! Visit Sanzen-in Temple featuring beautiful gardens ponds surrounded lush greenery providing peaceful retreat amidst nature’s splendor!

Have lunch at local eatery within Ohara village itself sampling regional dishes made using fresh locally sourced ingredients before continuing exploration area including Jikko-in Temple another hidden gem offering serene garden settings ideal relaxation contemplation away crowds typical tourist spots central Kyoto!

Return back central Kyoto spend evening exploring Philosopher’s Path scenic walking trail following canal lined cherry trees connecting Ginkaku-ji(Silver Pavilion) Nanzen-ji Temples passing various smaller shrines temples along way making perfect end day immersed natural beauty historical charm this enchanting city!

Start your day with a visit to the Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its rock garden. This Zen temple offers a serene atmosphere and a chance to reflect while admiring the minimalist beauty of the garden.

Head to the nearby Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) for lunch at one of the local eateries. Afterward, explore this iconic Zen Buddhist temple with its stunning golden exterior and beautiful surrounding gardens.

In the evening, visit the Gion district once more. Stroll through its historic streets lined with traditional wooden machiya houses and enjoy dinner at a kaiseki restaurant where you can savor a multi-course meal featuring seasonal ingredients.

Begin your day at Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto's most important Shinto shrines. Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a path up Mount Inari, this site offers both spiritual significance and breathtaking views.

For lunch, head to Nishiki Market, known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen.' This bustling market street is filled with vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Afterward, visit Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the residence of Tokugawa shoguns during their visits to Kyoto.

Conclude your day with a visit to Pontocho Alley along the Kamogawa River. This narrow alleyway is famous for its traditional teahouses and restaurants offering riverside dining experiences. Enjoy dinner while taking in views of the river.

Start your day by visiting Kiyomizu-dera Temple located on eastern hills overlooking city center offering panoramic views across entire cityscape below! Explore temple complex including main hall supported wooden pillars extending cliffside plus Otowa Waterfall believed grant wishes those drink from it!

Head towards Higashiyama District where can have lunch at one many traditional eateries before exploring narrow lanes filled shops selling local crafts souvenirs such pottery textiles etc.. Don’t miss out visiting Yasaka Pagoda five-story pagoda dating back centuries providing great photo opportunities amidst historical surroundings!

Spend evening relaxing Maruyama Park located nearby which especially beautiful during cherry blossom season when entire park transforms into sea pink flowers attracting visitors both locals tourists alike! Enjoy dinner nearby restaurant serving regional specialties such yudofu(tofu hot pot) or kaiseki cuisine multi-course meal showcasing seasonal ingredients prepared meticulously!

Begin Day 16 by traveling outskirts city visiting Ohara rural village nestled amongst mountains north-eastern part Kyoto Prefecture known its picturesque landscapes tranquil ambiance perfect escape hustle bustle urban life! Visit Sanzen-in Temple featuring beautiful gardens ponds surrounded lush greenery providing peaceful retreat amidst nature’s splendor!

Have lunch at local eatery within Ohara village itself sampling regional dishes made using fresh locally sourced ingredients before continuing exploration area including Jikko-in Temple another hidden gem offering serene garden settings ideal relaxation contemplation away crowds typical tourist spots central Kyoto!

Return back central Kyoto spend evening exploring Philosopher’s Path scenic walking trail following canal lined cherry trees connecting Ginkaku-ji(Silver Pavilion) Nanzen-ji Temples passing various smaller shrines temples along way making perfect end day immersed natural beauty historical charm this enchanting city!

Start your final day in Kyoto with a visit to the serene Nanzen-ji Temple. This Zen Buddhist temple is one of the most important in Japan and offers beautiful gardens, impressive architecture, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for reflection.

Head to the nearby Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) for lunch at one of the local eateries. Afterward, explore this Zen temple known for its beautiful moss garden and traditional Japanese landscape design. Take your time to enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Conclude your trip with a relaxing evening stroll along the Philosopher’s Path. This scenic walking trail follows a canal lined with cherry trees and connects Ginkaku-ji to Nanzen-ji. Reflect on your journey while enjoying the natural beauty and historical charm of Kyoto.