21 Days in Japan Exploring Culture and Nature Itinerary

Begin your day at Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu). This Shinto shrine, located in a forested area, offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Take your time to explore the beautiful grounds.

Afterwards, head to Harajuku, known for its vibrant street fashion and quirky shops. Don't miss Takeshita Street, where you can find unique clothing stores and trendy cafes.

For dinner, make your way to Robot Restaurant. This themed restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience with its extravagant robot shows.

Start your day by visiting Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa Temple), Tokyo's oldest temple. The approach to the temple is lined with shops selling traditional snacks and souvenirs.

Next, visit Tokyo Skytree, one of the tallest towers in the world. Enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo from its observation decks.

Conclude your day at Memory Lane (Omoide Yokocho). This narrow alleyway is filled with small eateries serving delicious yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and other Japanese dishes.

Begin your morning at Ghibli Museum in Mitaka. This museum showcases the work of Studio Ghibli, creators of beloved animated films like My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away.

Spend your afternoon exploring Odaiba Seaside Park (Oaidaba Kaihin Koen). This man-made island offers shopping, entertainment, and beautiful views of Tokyo Bay.

End your day with dinner at one of Odaiba's waterfront restaurants while enjoying the stunning night view of Rainbow Bridge.

Start your day with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha). This iconic shrine is famous for its thousands of red torii gates that form a path up the mountain. It's a serene and spiritual experience.

Head to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) in the afternoon. This stunning Zen Buddhist temple is covered in gold leaf and sits beside a tranquil pond, making it one of Kyoto's most picturesque sites.

For dinner, explore the bustling Pontocho Alley. This narrow alley is lined with traditional restaurants and teahouses, offering a variety of delicious Japanese cuisine.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is your first stop today. This historic temple offers stunning views of Kyoto from its wooden terrace, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.

Arashiyama Park awaits you in the afternoon. Explore the famous bamboo grove and take a leisurely stroll along the scenic paths. Don't miss the Togetsu-kyo Bridge for more picturesque views.

Gion Corner is perfect for an evening cultural experience. Here, you can watch traditional Japanese performing arts such as tea ceremonies, flower arranging, and Geisha dances.

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

Nishiki Market is ideal for lunch and some shopping. Known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen,' this market has been serving up local delicacies for centuries. Try some fresh seafood or pick up unique souvenirs.

End your day at Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine). Located in the Gion district, this shrine is beautifully illuminated at night and offers a peaceful atmosphere to conclude your day.

Begin your exploration of Shikoku with a visit to Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu. This historic garden features meticulously landscaped grounds, serene ponds, and traditional tea houses where you can enjoy matcha tea while taking in the beauty around you.

Head to Iya Valley for an adventurous afternoon. Known for its dramatic gorges, vine bridges, and scenic beauty, Iya Valley offers opportunities for hiking, river rafting, or simply enjoying the breathtaking landscapes from various viewpoints.

Conclude your day with dinner at one of Takamatsu’s renowned udon noodle restaurants. Sanuki Udon is famous throughout Japan for its chewy texture and delicious broth; savor this local specialty before retiring for the night.

Start your day with a visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. This museum provides a sobering yet essential look at the impact of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima and its residents. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of peace.

After the museum, take a peaceful stroll through Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. The park is home to several monuments dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb, including the iconic A-Bomb Dome.

End your day with dinner at one of Hiroshima's famous okonomiyaki restaurants. Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake filled with various ingredients, and Hiroshima is known for its unique style of this dish.

Take a ferry to Miyajima Island (Itsukushima) in the morning. Start your visit with Itsukushima Shrine (Itsukushima Jinja), famous for its 'floating' torii gate that appears to float on water during high tide.

Spend your afternoon hiking up Mount Misen. The hike offers stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and, on clear days, you can see as far as Shikoku. Alternatively, you can take the ropeway for an easier ascent.

Return to Hiroshima for dinner and explore some local izakayas (Japanese pubs) for a relaxed evening. Try some local sake and small dishes as you unwind from your day.

Begin your day at Osaka Castle (Osaka-jo). This historic castle offers beautiful grounds to explore and an informative museum inside detailing Osaka's history.

Head over to Dotonbori in the afternoon. This lively district is famous for its neon lights, street food stalls, and entertainment options. Be sure to try takoyaki (octopus balls) from one of the many vendors.

For dinner, enjoy a meal at one of Osaka’s renowned kushikatsu restaurants in Shinsekai. Kushikatsu are skewered and deep-fried pieces of meat or vegetables, served with dipping sauces.

Start your exploration of Nara with a visit to Todai-ji Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage site houses one of Japan’s largest bronze statues of Buddha and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Spend your afternoon at Nara Park, where you can interact with friendly deer that roam freely throughout the park. Visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine within the park for more cultural insights.

Conclude your day with dinner at a traditional Japanese restaurant in Nara-machi, an area known for its preserved historic buildings and charming atmosphere.

Start your day with a visit to Kenroku-en Garden. This garden is considered one of Japan's most beautiful, featuring meticulously landscaped grounds, ponds, and seasonal flowers. It's a perfect place for a peaceful morning stroll.

In the afternoon, explore the samurai district and visit the Nomura Samurai House. This well-preserved residence offers insights into the lifestyle of samurai families during the Edo period.

For dinner, enjoy a traditional kaiseki meal at one of Kanazawa's renowned restaurants. Kaiseki is a multi-course meal that showcases seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation.

Takayama Morning Markets (Asaichi) are your first stop today. These markets offer fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious street food. It's a great way to start your day and experience local life.

Sannomachi Street (Sanmachi Suji) awaits you in the afternoon. This historic district is lined with well-preserved Edo-period buildings, shops, and sake breweries. Take your time to explore and perhaps enjoy some sake tasting.

Takayama Night Tour with Local Meal and Drinks is perfect for an evening adventure. This tour will take you through Takayama's charming streets while enjoying local cuisine and drinks.

SCMAGLEV and Railway Park should be your first destination today. This museum showcases Japan's advancements in railway technology, including the famous Shinkansen (bullet train) and maglev trains.

Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology is ideal for car enthusiasts. The museum provides an in-depth look at Toyota's history and innovations in automotive technology.

Nagoya Private One-Way Transfers to/from Suzuka Circuit can be arranged if you're interested in motorsports. Otherwise, enjoy dinner at one of Nagoya’s famous hitsumabushi (grilled eel) restaurants.

Begin your day with a visit to Fukuoka Fukuoka Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket. Enjoy panoramic views of Fukuoka city from this iconic tower.

Head over to Hakata Temple and Shrine Tour with Food Stall Experience. Explore historic temples like Tocho-ji Temple while enjoying local street food from nearby stalls.

Conclude your day with dinner at one of Fukuoka’s famous yatai (food stalls). These open-air stalls offer various delicious dishes such as ramen, yakitori, and tempura.

Begin your day with a visit to Fukuoka Japanese Calligraphy Experience. Learn about traditional Japanese calligraphy from skilled instructors while creating your own art pieces.

Spend your afternoon exploring Kawachi Wisteria Garden. Known for its stunning wisteria tunnels, this garden provides a breathtaking display of flowers during blooming season.

Conclude your day with dinner at one of Fukuoka’s renowned seafood restaurants along Nakasu Island, where you can enjoy fresh sushi and sashimi while overlooking the river.

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, especially during the Sapporo Snow Festival in winter or the summer flower displays.

Head to Sapporo TV Tower for panoramic views of the city. The observation deck offers a great vantage point to see Sapporo and its surrounding mountains.

Enjoy dinner at 成吉思汗だるま 本店, famous for its Genghis Khan (grilled mutton) dishes. It's a local favorite and offers a unique dining experience.

Shiroi Koibito Park is your first stop today. This theme park is dedicated to the famous Shiroi Koibito cookies and offers factory tours, chocolate-making workshops, and beautiful gardens.

Mt. Moiwa (Moiwa-yama) awaits you in the afternoon. Take the ropeway to the summit for stunning views of Sapporo and beyond. The observatory at the top is particularly beautiful during sunset.

ラーメン共和国 is perfect for dinner. This ramen theme park features several renowned ramen shops from across Japan, allowing you to sample different styles of this beloved dish.

Maruyama Park (Maruyama Koen) should be your first destination today. This large park is home to Maruyama Zoo and Hokkaido Shrine, offering plenty of opportunities for exploration.

Hoheikyo Onsen is ideal for relaxation in the afternoon. This traditional Japanese hot spring offers indoor and outdoor baths with beautiful natural surroundings.

サッポロビール園 is perfect for dinner. Enjoy delicious Hokkaido cuisine paired with freshly brewed beer at this historic brewery.

Start your final day with a visit to Asahiyama Memorial Park (Asahiyama Kinen Koen). This park offers beautiful views of Sapporo and is a great place for a peaceful morning walk.

Jozankei is perfect for an afternoon excursion. This hot spring town located in the mountains offers scenic beauty and relaxing onsen baths. Enjoy a leisurely soak while taking in the natural surroundings.

End your trip with dinner at すし善, one of Sapporo's top sushi restaurants. Enjoy fresh, high-quality sushi as you reflect on your memorable journey through Japan.