21 Days of Culture and Cuisine in Japan Itinerary

Begin your morning with a serene walk through Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu). Located in Shibuya, this Shinto shrine is surrounded by lush forest, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.

Visit Harajuku, known for its vibrant street fashion and trendy shops. Don't miss Takeshita Street, where you can indulge in delicious crepes and quirky boutiques.

Spend your evening exploring Shinjuku Golden Gai, famous for its narrow alleys packed with tiny bars. Each bar has its own unique theme, making it a great place to experience Tokyo's nightlife.

Kick off the day with some family fun at Tokyo Disneyland®. This world-famous theme park offers exciting rides, parades, and character meet-and-greets that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.

Continue the adventure at Tokyo DisneySea®, located adjacent to Disneyland. This park features nautical-themed attractions and shows that are unique to Japan.

After an exhilarating day at the parks, relax with dinner at one of the many restaurants within Disney Resort before heading back to your accommodation.

Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto (approx. 2 hours 20 minutes by Shinkansen). Start your Kyoto exploration with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha). Famous for its thousands of red torii gates, this shrine is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks.

Next, head over to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple offers stunning views over Kyoto from its wooden terrace.

Conclude your day with a stroll through Gion Corner, where you can experience traditional Japanese arts such as tea ceremonies, flower arranging, and dance performances by maiko (apprentice geisha).

Start your day with a visit to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). This stunning Zen Buddhist temple is covered in gold leaf and surrounded by beautiful gardens, making it one of Kyoto's most photographed sites.

Head to Ryoan-ji Temple & Garden next. Known for its famous rock garden, this temple offers a serene environment perfect for contemplation and relaxation.

End your day with a leisurely walk along Pontocho Alley. This narrow alley is lined with traditional wooden buildings housing restaurants and tea houses, offering an authentic Kyoto dining experience.

Begin your morning at Nijo-jo Castle. This UNESCO World Heritage site was the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns and features beautiful gardens and impressive architecture.

Visit Nishiki Market for lunch. Known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen,' this market offers a wide variety of local foods, from fresh seafood to traditional sweets.

Spend your evening at Gion Corner, where you can experience traditional Japanese arts such as tea ceremonies, flower arranging, and dance performances by maiko (apprentice geisha).

Travel back from Mt.Fuji to Kyoto (approx 2 hours drive followed by Shinkansen ride). Start your day with visit to Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho). The palace grounds are open to public & offer insight into Japan’s imperial history & architecture.

Visit Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum. Located in Fushimi district,this museum showcases history & process behind sake brewing.Enjoy tasting session as well!

Conclude your day at Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine).This shrine located in Gion district,is beautifully illuminated at night,making it perfect spot for evening stroll.

Travel from Kyoto to Osaka (approx. 15 minutes by Shinkansen). Start your day with a visit to Osaka Castle (Osaka-jo). This historic castle offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Head over to Dotonbori for lunch. This lively district is famous for its neon lights, street food stalls, and entertainment options.

Conclude your day with dinner at たこ焼き くれおーる 道頓堀店, where you can enjoy Osaka's famous takoyaki (octopus balls) while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Start your morning at Umeda Sky Building. This futuristic skyscraper offers stunning views of Osaka from its Floating Garden Observatory.

Visit the quirky Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum (Cupnoodles Museum), where you can learn about the history of instant ramen and even create your own custom cup noodles.

End your day with dinner at 松阪牛焼肉M 法善寺横丁店, known for its delicious Matsusaka beef yakiniku. Enjoy a leisurely meal before heading back to your accommodation.

Start your day with a visit to Odori Park (Odori Koen). This large park in the heart of Sapporo is perfect for a morning stroll and offers beautiful flower gardens, fountains, and seasonal events.

Head over to Sapporo TV Tower for panoramic views of the city. The observation deck provides a great vantage point to see Sapporo's layout and surrounding mountains.

End your day with dinner at すすきのラーメン横丁, located in the bustling Susukino district. This area is famous for its nightlife and offers a variety of ramen shops where you can enjoy delicious local flavors.

Shiroi Koibito Park is a must-visit for chocolate lovers. This theme park by Ishiya, a local confectionery company, offers factory tours, chocolate-making workshops, and beautiful gardens.

Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo, Furano, and Ningle Terrace Tour will take you on an adventure outside the city. Visit the famous Asahiyama Zoo, explore the picturesque Furano area known for its lavender fields (seasonal), and enjoy the charming Ningle Terrace with its quaint wooden cottages.

札幌グランドホテル ラウンジバー オールドサルーン1934 is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Enjoy classic cocktails in this historic bar that exudes old-world charm.

Mt. Fuji - Start your journey from Sapporo to Mt. Fuji (approx. 3 hours by flight to Tokyo Haneda Airport followed by 2 hours drive). Begin your exploration with a visit to the iconic Mt. Fuji itself. You can hike up one of its trails or simply enjoy the stunning views from various vantage points around the base.

1870 Antipolo - Head over to Lake Kawaguchi for some breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji reflected in its waters. You can also take a boat ride or visit one of the lakeside parks for a relaxing afternoon.

Philippines - End your day with dinner at one of the local restaurants offering traditional Japanese cuisine while enjoying views of Mt. Fuji.

Start your day with a visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. This museum offers a poignant look at the events of August 6, 1945, and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of peace.

Head over to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. This park is home to several monuments dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb and provides a tranquil space for reflection.

Conclude your day with dinner at one of Hiroshima's local restaurants. Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with various ingredients, at one of the many eateries in the city.

Miyajima Island (Itsukushima) is just a short ferry ride from Hiroshima. Start your day by exploring this beautiful island, known for its iconic floating torii gate and friendly deer.

Itsukushima Shrine (Itsukushima Jinja) is a must-visit on Miyajima Island. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its stunning architecture and scenic views.

Miyajima Cultural Experience in a Kimono offers a unique way to end your day. Dress in traditional Japanese attire and stroll around the island, taking in its beauty and tranquility.

味蔵天国 - Travel from Hiroshima to Takayama (approx. 4 hours by Shinkansen followed by local train). Start your exploration with a visit to Takayama Morning Markets (Asaichi). These markets offer fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious street food.

飛騨牛料理専門店 牛政 - Head over to Sannomachi Street (Sanmachi Suji), known for its well-preserved Edo-period buildings. Stroll through this historic district and enjoy its charming atmosphere.

ひだっち寿司 - End your day with dinner at one of Takayama's renowned restaurants offering Hida beef sushi. Enjoy this local delicacy while soaking in the town's traditional ambiance.

Takayama Old Town Guided Walking Tour 45min. will take you through the well-preserved Edo-period streets of Takayama. Learn about the town's history and culture from a knowledgeable guide.

Takayama Half Day Tour (Private Guide) continues your exploration with visits to local temples, shrines, and museums. This tour provides a deeper understanding of Takayama's rich heritage.

飛騨牛ステーキハウス キッチン飛騨 is renowned for its Hida beef steak. Enjoy this local specialty in a cozy setting before retiring for the night.

Hida Great Limestone Cave and Ohashi Collection Kan Museum offers an intriguing start to your day. Explore these impressive limestone caves followed by a visit to the museum showcasing various artifacts.

Takayama Morning Markets (Asaichi) - Start your final day with a visit to the morning markets. These markets are a great place to pick up fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and sample some delicious street food for breakfast.

Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine & Festival Floats Exhibition Hall - Head over to this shrine and exhibition hall to learn about Takayama's famous festivals. The intricately designed floats on display are a testament to the town's rich cultural heritage.

飛騨高山ラーメン まるや - Conclude your trip with a hearty bowl of Hida-Takayama ramen at this highly-rated restaurant. Enjoy the rich flavors of this local specialty as you reflect on your memorable journey through Japan.

福島県白河市 - Travel from Takayama to Shirakawago (approx.1 hour by bus). Start your day exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site known for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses.These traditional thatched-roof houses are unique & picturesque.

福島県白河市 - Continue exploring Shirakawago village.Visit Wada House,a well-preserved farmhouse that offers insight into local history & culture.Enjoy scenic views from Shiroyama Viewpoint as well!

福島県白河市 - Conclude your day with dinner at one of Shirakawago’s local eateries offering regional cuisine such as Hida beef & mountain vegetables.Savor these flavors while enjoying serene village atmosphere.

Start your day with a visit to Kenroku-en Garden. This is one of Japan's most beautiful landscape gardens, featuring a variety of trees, flowers, and ponds that change with the seasons.

Head over to Kanazawa Samurai, Matcha, Gardens and Geisha Full-Day Tour. This tour offers a comprehensive look at Kanazawa's rich cultural heritage, including visits to samurai houses, tea ceremonies, and geisha districts.

Conclude your day with dinner at Morimori Sushi Kanazawa Ekimae, known for its fresh and delicious sushi. Enjoy a leisurely meal before heading back to your accommodation.

Japanese Calligraphy Trial Class offers a unique opportunity to learn the traditional art of Japanese calligraphy. This hands-on experience is both educational and enjoyable.

Private Japanese Cooking Classes in Kanazawa will allow you to dive into the culinary traditions of the region. Learn how to prepare local dishes under the guidance of an expert chef.

The Godburger is perfect for dinner. Known for its gourmet burgers made from high-quality ingredients, this restaurant offers a delicious end to your day.