21 Days in Japan: Cultural and Tourist Activities Itinerary

Begin your day with a trip to Shitenno-ji Temple, one of Japan's oldest temples. The serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture make it a perfect spot for a peaceful morning.

After exploring the temple, head to America-Mura (American Village) for lunch and some shopping. This trendy area is known for its youth culture, fashion boutiques, and cafes. Grab a bite at お好み焼き きじ 本店, famous for its savory okonomiyaki.

In the evening, visit Umeda Sky Building to enjoy breathtaking views of Osaka from the Floating Garden Observatory. For dinner, treat yourself to an exquisite meal at フレンチレストラン ラ・ベカス, offering French cuisine with a Japanese twist.

Take an early train from Osaka to Hiroshima. Start your day with a visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. This museum provides an in-depth look at the events surrounding the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of peace.

After visiting the museum, take a short walk to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. The park is home to several monuments dedicated to peace and remembrance. For lunch, try some local delicacies at Nagata-ya, known for its delicious okonomiyaki.

In the evening, take a ferry ride to Miyajima Island (Itsukushima). Explore the island's famous Itsukushima Shrine and enjoy dinner at Kanawa Oyster Boat, where you can savor fresh oysters while enjoying scenic views.

Travel from Hiroshima to Kyoto early in the morning. Begin your exploration with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha), famous for its thousands of red torii gates that create stunning pathways through the forested hills.

Next, head over to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto's most celebrated temples offering panoramic views of the city. For lunch, explore nearby eateries before visiting the historic streets of Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka.

Conclude your day by strolling through Gion District where you might catch sight of geishas on their way to appointments. Enjoy dinner at one of Gion’s traditional restaurants or tea houses.

Start your day with a visit to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). This stunning Zen Buddhist temple is covered in gold leaf and reflects beautifully in the surrounding pond. It's one of Kyoto's most iconic sights.

After exploring Kinkaku-ji, head to Ryoan-ji Temple & Garden. Known for its famous rock garden, this temple offers a serene atmosphere perfect for contemplation. For lunch, enjoy a traditional Japanese meal at a nearby restaurant.

In the evening, visit Gion Corner to experience traditional Japanese performing arts such as tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and dance. For dinner, try some local delicacies at one of Gion's renowned restaurants.

Nijo-jo Castle is your first stop today. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal era with its impressive architecture and beautiful gardens.

Arashiyama Park is next on your list. Take a leisurely stroll through the bamboo groves and visit the nearby Tenryu-ji Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy lunch at one of the charming cafes in Arashiyama.

Pontocho Alley is perfect for an evening walk. This narrow alley along the Kamogawa River is lined with traditional wooden buildings housing restaurants and teahouses. Savor a delicious dinner at one of these establishments.

Takayama Morning Markets (Asaichi) are a great way to start your day. These markets offer fresh produce, local crafts, and street food. It's an excellent opportunity to interact with locals and sample regional specialties.

Sannomachi Street (Sanmachi Suji) is next on your itinerary. This well-preserved historic district features Edo-period buildings housing shops, sake breweries, and museums. Enjoy lunch at 飛騨牛料理専門店 牛政, known for its Hida beef dishes.

Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine & Festival Floats Exhibition Hall is worth visiting in the evening. The shrine is beautiful when illuminated, and the exhibition hall showcases elaborate festival floats used during Takayama Matsuri.

Start your day with a visit to Hakone Open-Air Museum. This museum features a unique collection of sculptures set against the backdrop of Hakone's natural beauty. The outdoor setting makes it a refreshing and inspiring way to begin your day.

After the museum, take a ride on the Hakone Ropeway for stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including Mount Fuji on clear days. For lunch, enjoy some local cuisine at 田むら銀かつ亭, known for its delicious katsu dishes.

In the evening, relax by taking a cruise on Lake Ashi (Ashi-no-ko). The lake is surrounded by mountains and offers beautiful sunset views. For dinner, dine at 富士屋ホテル メインダイニングルーム, which offers an elegant dining experience with a view.

Start your day with a visit to Pola Museum of Art. This museum features an impressive collection of Western and Japanese art set in a beautiful natural environment.

After exploring the museum, take a hike along the historic Tokaido Highway with the Hakone Hachiri Old Tokaido Highway Hiking Tour. This trail offers scenic views and a chance to experience Hakone's natural beauty up close. For lunch, enjoy some local specialties at one of Hakone’s charming eateries.

In the evening, relax in one of Hakone’s renowned hot springs (onsen). Many ryokans (traditional inns) offer onsen facilities where you can unwind after a day of exploration. Enjoy dinner at your ryokan or at はつ花 本店, known for its delicious soba noodles.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is your first stop today. This important Shinto shrine is surrounded by beautiful gardens and ponds, making it a peaceful place to start your day.

Daibutsu (Great Buddha of Kamakura) is next on your list. This iconic bronze statue stands over 13 meters tall and is one of Kamakura's most famous landmarks. For lunch, try some local dishes at 鎌倉大仏, located nearby.

Hase Temple (Hasedera) offers beautiful views of Kamakura and the sea from its hillside location. The temple grounds are also home to lovely gardens and statues. For dinner, enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine at 長谷寺.

Begin your day with a visit to Engaku-ji Temple, one of Kamakura's most important Zen Buddhist temples. The temple grounds are peaceful and offer beautiful views.

Next, head over to Kamakura Great Buddha (Daibutsu), an iconic bronze statue that stands over 13 meters tall. For lunch, try some local dishes at nearby eateries such as 鎌倉大仏 which offers traditional Japanese cuisine.

Conclude your day by exploring Komachi Street in Kamakura’s old town area where you can find unique shops and cafes. Enjoy dinner at one of Kamakura’s renowned restaurants like 長谷寺 which provides both great food and ambiance.

Tokyo Skytree is your first destination today. This towering structure offers panoramic views of Tokyo from its observation decks. It's an excellent way to get an overview of the city.

Asakusa Temple (Senso-ji Temple) is next on your itinerary. This ancient Buddhist temple is one of Tokyo's most visited sites and offers a glimpse into Japan's spiritual heritage. For lunch, explore Nakamise Shopping Street for some tasty street food.

Shibuya comes alive in the evening with its bustling streets and neon lights. Visit the famous Shibuya Crossing and explore nearby shops and restaurants. Enjoy dinner at one of Shibuya's trendy eateries.

Begin your day with a visit to Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu). This serene Shinto shrine is located in a forested area in Shibuya and provides a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.

Next, head over to Ueno Park (Ueno Koen), which houses several museums, including the Tokyo National Museum. Spend some time exploring the park's attractions before enjoying lunch at one of its many cafes.

Conclude your day with a visit to Ginza, Tokyo's upscale shopping district known for its luxury boutiques and fine dining establishments. Enjoy dinner at one of Ginza’s renowned restaurants.

Start your day with a visit to Ghibli Museum. This museum, dedicated to the works of Studio Ghibli, offers a whimsical and immersive experience for fans of animation. The exhibits are creative and engaging, making it a delightful way to spend your morning.

After the museum, head to Akihabara, Tokyo's famous electronics district. Explore the numerous shops selling gadgets, anime merchandise, and more. For lunch, try some delicious ramen at one of the local eateries.

In the evening, visit Roppongi for its vibrant nightlife. This area is known for its bars, clubs, and restaurants. Enjoy dinner at one of Roppongi's trendy dining spots before exploring the nightlife.

Tokyo National Museum is your first stop today. This museum houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts from Japan and other Asian countries, offering a deep dive into the region's cultural heritage.

Ueno Park (Ueno Koen) is next on your list. This large public park is home to several museums, a zoo, and beautiful gardens. For lunch, explore the various eateries within the park.

Shinjuku Golden Gai comes alive in the evening with its narrow alleys lined with tiny bars and eateries. Enjoy dinner at one of these unique establishments.

Tokyo Skytree is your first destination today. This towering structure offers panoramic views of Tokyo from its observation decks. It's an excellent way to get an overview of the city.

Odaiba Seaside Park (Oaidaba Kaihin Koen) is next on your itinerary. This popular shopping and entertainment district offers a variety of attractions, including shopping malls, museums, and waterfront parks. For lunch, try some delicious dishes at one of Odaiba’s many restaurants.

Robot Restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its futuristic robot-themed performances. Enjoy dinner while being entertained by this one-of-a-kind show.

Start your final day in Japan with a visit to Tokyo Imperial Palace. The palace grounds are beautiful and offer a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. While the inner grounds are not open to the public, you can explore the East Gardens and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

After visiting the Imperial Palace, head to Tsukiji Fish Market for lunch. This market is famous for its fresh seafood and bustling atmosphere. Try some sushi at one of the market's renowned restaurants.

Conclude your trip with a visit to Shinjuku Park (Shinjuku Gyoen). This large park offers beautiful landscapes and is perfect for an evening stroll. For dinner, enjoy a memorable meal at one of Shinjuku's top-rated restaurants.

Take an early train from Tokyo to Nikko. Begin your day with a visit to Nikko Toshogu Shrine (Nikko Toshogu). This lavishly decorated shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan's history.

After exploring Toshogu Shrine, head to Kegon Waterfall, one of Japan's most famous waterfalls. The scenic beauty of this natural wonder is breathtaking. For lunch, enjoy some local cuisine at 明治の館, known for its delicious dishes.

In the evening, take a relaxing stroll around Lake Chuzenji (Chuzenjiko). The lake is surrounded by mountains and offers serene views. Enjoy dinner at 日光金谷ホテル メインダイニングルーム, which provides an elegant dining experience.

Nikko National Park is your first stop today. This expansive park offers stunning natural scenery, including mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs.

Edo Wonderland (Nikko Edomura) is next on your list. This theme park recreates life in Edo-period Japan with traditional buildings, performances, and activities. For lunch, enjoy some local cuisine at one of the park’s eateries.

日光金谷ホテル メインダイニングルーム offers an elegant dining experience with a view of Nikko’s beautiful surroundings.

Start your day with Nikko Toshogu Shrine (Nikko Toshogu). This lavishly decorated shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan's history.

Next visit Kegon Waterfall, one of Japan's most famous waterfalls for its scenic beauty.

Conclude your day by exploring 日光珈琲 御用邸通, which provides both great food and ambiance.