21 Days of Japanese Culture and Cuisine Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to one of Shikoku's beautiful bonsai gardens. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and intricate designs of these miniature trees.

Head to a traditional Japanese garden for an afternoon stroll. Have lunch at a local restaurant known for its authentic cuisine.

Spend your evening dining at another highly-rated restaurant on the island, experiencing more of Shikoku's culinary delights.

Arrive in Kyoto and start your day with Kyoto Private Tea Ceremony with a Garden View. This experience offers an intimate look into Japanese tea culture while enjoying beautiful garden views.

Explore Nishiki Market, known as 'Kyoto’s Kitchen,' where you can sample various local delicacies. For lunch, head to Gogyo Ramen for their famous burnt miso ramen.

Visit Pontocho Alley in the evening, which is famous for its nightlife and dining options. Enjoy dinner at Gion Kappa, offering traditional Kyoto cuisine.

Start your day by visiting the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha). The thousands of red torii gates make it one of Japan’s most iconic sites.

After exploring Fushimi Inari, head to Kiyomizu-dera Temple for more historical insights. For lunch, dine at Omen, known for its delicious udon noodles.

Conclude your day with a visit to Gion Corner, where you can experience traditional Japanese performing arts. Have dinner at Kikunoi, which offers an exquisite kaiseki meal.

Start your day with Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). This iconic Zen Buddhist temple is one of Kyoto's most famous landmarks, known for its stunning golden exterior that reflects beautifully on the surrounding pond.

After visiting Kinkaku-ji, head to Ryoan-ji Temple & Garden. This UNESCO World Heritage site features Japan's most famous rock garden. For lunch, visit Musashi Sushi to enjoy some fresh sushi in a casual setting.

Conclude your day with a visit to Gion Corner, where you can experience traditional Japanese performing arts such as tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and puppet theater. Have dinner at Hyotei, which offers an exquisite kaiseki meal.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto's most celebrated temples. Start your day with a visit to this iconic location, known for its wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering impressive views of the cherry and maple trees below.

After exploring Kiyomizu-dera, head to Sanjusangen-do Temple, famous for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. For lunch, dine at Ippudo Nishiki-Koji, renowned for its delicious ramen.

Pontocho Alley is perfect for an evening stroll. This narrow alleyway is lined with traditional wooden buildings housing restaurants and bars. Enjoy dinner at Nishiki Warai, which offers a delightful selection of local dishes.

Nijo-jo Castle is a flatland castle that was once the residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period. Begin your day by exploring this historical site.

Arashiyama Park offers beautiful natural scenery and is home to the famous bamboo groves. After wandering through the park, have lunch at Omen, known for its delicious udon noodles.

Gion Corner provides an opportunity to experience traditional Japanese performing arts such as tea ceremony and flower arrangement. For dinner, visit Kikunoi, which offers an exquisite kaiseki meal.

Begin your day with a visit to the famous Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue. The serene atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-see.

After exploring Todai-ji, head to Nara Park where you can interact with the friendly deer that roam freely. Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at a nearby restaurant.

Spend your evening strolling through Naramachi, the old merchant district of Nara. Have dinner at a local restaurant that offers regional specialties.

Todai-ji Temple houses one of Japan's largest bronze Buddha statues in its Great Buddha Hall. Start your day by visiting this impressive temple complex.

Nara Park is home to hundreds of freely roaming deer. Spend your afternoon interacting with these friendly creatures and enjoy a picnic lunch in the park.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine is famous for its lanterns which are lit twice a year during festivals. Conclude your day with a visit to this serene shrine and have dinner at a local restaurant offering regional specialties.

Tokyo Skytree offers breathtaking views of Tokyo and beyond. Start your day by taking in the panoramic sights from one of the tallest towers in the world.

Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa Temple) is Tokyo's oldest temple and a bustling hub of activity. After exploring, have lunch at one of Asakusa's many eateries.

Memory Lane (Omoide Yokocho) is perfect for an evening stroll and dinner. This narrow alleyway is filled with tiny bars and eateries offering delicious local fare.

Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu) is an oasis of tranquility in bustling Tokyo. Start your day with a peaceful visit to this Shinto shrine.

Tokyo National Museum houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts from Japan and other Asian countries. Enjoy lunch at the museum's café or nearby restaurant.

Shinjuku Golden Gai is known for its vibrant nightlife and unique bars. Spend your evening here, experiencing Tokyo's eclectic bar scene.

Hama Rikyu Gardens are beautiful landscaped gardens offering a peaceful retreat from city life. Start your day with a relaxing stroll through these historic gardens.

Ginza is one of Tokyo’s most famous shopping districts, known for its luxury stores and fine dining options. Enjoy lunch at one of Ginza’s renowned restaurants.

Shibuya comes alive in the evening with its famous crossing and vibrant nightlife. Conclude your day with dinner at one of Shibuya’s trendy eateries.

Tokyo Tower offers panoramic views of Tokyo from its observation decks. Start your day by taking in these breathtaking sights.

Tsukiji Fish Market is perfect for lunch where you can sample fresh sushi and other seafood delicacies while exploring this bustling market area.

Shibuya comes alive in the evening with its famous crossing and vibrant nightlife scene. Conclude your day with dinner at one of Shibuya’s trendy eateries.

Sanrio Puroland is a theme park dedicated to Hello Kitty and other Sanrio characters. Start your day with some fun and nostalgia at this whimsical attraction.

Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum (Shinyokohama Raumen Museum) is a food-themed amusement park where you can sample different types of ramen from various regions of Japan. Enjoy lunch here while learning about the history of this beloved dish.

Robot Restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its high-energy robot shows. Conclude your day with dinner and entertainment at this one-of-a-kind venue.

Tokyo Imperial Palace is the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan. Begin your day with a visit to the palace grounds and East Gardens, which are open to the public.

Ueno Park (Ueno Koen) is home to several museums, a zoo, and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. Spend your afternoon exploring this cultural hub and have lunch at one of the park's eateries.

Akihabara is famous for its electronics shops, anime stores, and themed cafés. Spend your evening wandering through this vibrant district and enjoy dinner at one of its many unique restaurants.

Asahiyama Zoo is a must-visit in the morning. Known for its unique enclosures and interactive exhibits, it offers a fantastic start to your day.

Odori Park (Odori Koen) is perfect for an afternoon stroll. Enjoy the seasonal flowers and greenery, and have lunch at a nearby café.

Susukino is Hokkaido’s entertainment district. Spend your evening exploring its vibrant nightlife and dine at one of the many restaurants offering local specialties.

Mt. Moiwa (Moiwa-yama) offers stunning views of Sapporo and beyond. Take the ropeway up in the morning for breathtaking vistas.

Shiroi Koibito Park is a delightful destination for chocolate lovers. Tour the factory, enjoy some sweet treats, and have lunch at their café.

Jozankei is known for its hot springs. Spend your evening relaxing in an onsen, soaking away any travel fatigue.

Sapporo TV Tower provides another excellent vantage point to see the city. Start your day with panoramic views from this iconic tower.

Nopporo Forest Park (Nopporo Shinrin Koen) offers serene walking trails through lush forests. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature.

Hoheikyo Onsen is another fantastic hot spring experience to end your day with relaxation and rejuvenation.

Lake Shikotsu (Shikotsuko) is known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful surroundings. Start your day with a visit to this serene lake.

Mt. Tarumae (Tarumae-zan) offers hiking opportunities with stunning views of Lake Shikotsu and the surrounding area. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature.

Sapporo Beer Hokkaido Brewery provides tours where you can learn about the brewing process and sample some local beers. Conclude your day with dinner at their on-site restaurant.

Noboribetsu Date Historic Village (Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura) is a historical theme park that recreates life in Edo-period Japan. Start your day by exploring this fascinating village.

Hoheikyo Onsen offers natural hot springs in a beautiful setting. Spend your afternoon relaxing in these therapeutic waters after enjoying lunch at their restaurant.

Sapporo Private Customized Guided Tour allows you to explore Sapporo’s highlights with a local guide who can tailor the experience to your interests. End your day with dinner at one of Sapporo’s top-rated restaurants.

Maru Japan eSIM, 2GB/per day, total 16GB/8 days, high speed ensures you stay connected as you explore the last of Hokkaido. Start your day with a visit to Mt. Okura Observatory, offering panoramic views of Sapporo and its surroundings.

Sapporo Lake Toya, Mt. Yoteisan Park & Hot Springs Day Tour is perfect for your final afternoon in Japan. Enjoy the scenic beauty and relax in the hot springs while having lunch at a local eatery.

Sapporo Personalized Experience with a Local allows you to end your trip on a high note. Explore hidden gems and enjoy dinner at one of Sapporo’s top-rated restaurants, guided by a local expert.