17-day Adventure in Taipei and Northern Japan Itinerary

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. Explore the beautiful gardens and learn about Taiwan's history. Afterward, head to Longshan Temple, one of Taipei's oldest and most significant temples. Take some time to admire the intricate architectural details and experience the spiritual atmosphere.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Yong Kang Beef Noodle, known for their flavorful beef noodle soup. After lunch, take a scenic ride on the Maokong Gondola to Maokong, a tea-growing region famous for its stunning views. Visit a traditional tea house and savor a cup of high-quality Taiwanese tea while enjoying the panoramic scenery.

For dinner, visit Modern Toilet Restaurant, a unique dining experience where you can enjoy your meal in a toilet-themed restaurant. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the vibrant streets of Xinyi District and marvel at the dazzling lights of Taipei 101.

Embark on a guided day trip to Jiufen, Yehliu, and Pingxi. Start your day by visiting the stunning Yehliu Geopark and witness its unique rock formations. Afterward, explore the charming old streets of Jiufen Village and indulge in local street food and tea. Don't miss the opportunity to release a sky lantern in Pingxi and make a wish.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Yehliu Geopark while taking in the beautiful coastal views. After lunch, visit the Shifen Waterfall and be mesmerized by its grandeur. Take a leisurely walk along the Shifen Old Street and immerse yourself in the nostalgic atmosphere.

Head back to Taipei and have dinner at Shilin Night Market, one of the largest and most famous night markets in Taipei. Explore the vibrant stalls and try a variety of local street food.

Embark on a 4-hour morning city cycling tour and explore Taipei's hidden gems on two wheels. Discover the city's historic sites, such as Dalongdong Baoan Temple and Lungshan Temple, and pedal through the bustling streets of Ximending. Enjoy a refreshing break at Chun Shui Tang and savor their famous bubble tea.

After the cycling tour, visit the picturesque Daan Forest Park and take a leisurely stroll through its lush greenery. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park or try some local snacks from nearby vendors. Afterward, visit the Eslite Spectrum Songyan Store, a unique cultural and shopping complex where you can browse through books, art, and design products.

For dinner, head to Ice Monster and indulge in their famous shaved ice desserts. Afterward, take a relaxing walk along the Daan River and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Start your day with a visit to the Beitou Hot Springs, known for their healing properties. Relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot spring baths. Afterward, explore the Beitou Thermal Valley, a volcanic crater filled with hot spring water.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Beitou Hot Springs and savor their specialty dishes. After lunch, take a scenic drive to Yangmingshan National Park and hike to the Qingtiangang Grassland for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Taipei city.

For dinner, try some local delicacies at Shilin Night Market. Afterward, visit Elephant Mountain and hike up to the viewpoint for a stunning night view of Taipei's skyline.

Arrive in Tokyo and start your day with a visit to Asakusa, home to the famous Senso-ji Temple. Explore the vibrant streets of Nakamise Shopping Street and try some traditional Japanese snacks. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views of the city.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Asakusa, such as Asakusa Imahan known for their mouthwatering sukiyaki. After lunch, visit the Meiji Shrine in Shibuya and take a peaceful stroll through its tranquil forested grounds.

Explore the bustling streets of Shinjuku and visit the iconic Shibuya Crossing. Enjoy dinner at Ichiran Ramen and savor their famous tonkotsu ramen. Afterward, experience the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo in Kabukicho.

Take a day trip to Kamakura and visit the Daibutsu (Great Buddha of Kamakura), one of Japan's most iconic landmarks. Explore the historic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and learn about its rich history and traditions.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Kamakura, such as Kamakura Hayama Traditional Soba. After lunch, visit the Engaku-ji Temple, one of Kamakura's most important Zen Buddhist temples. Take a peaceful walk through its serene gardens and admire the beautiful architecture.

Head back to Tokyo and enjoy dinner at Kobe Beef Kaiseki 511. Afterward, take a relaxing stroll along the Odaiba Seaside Park and enjoy the stunning views of Tokyo Bay.

Start your day with a visit to Ginza, Tokyo's premier shopping district. Explore the upscale boutiques and department stores, and indulge in some retail therapy. Don't miss the chance to visit Tsukiji Fish Market and savor some fresh sushi.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Sukiyabashi Jiro, a world-renowned sushi restaurant. After lunch, visit the trendy neighborhood of Harajuku and explore its unique fashion boutiques and quirky street art. Don't forget to visit the famous Meiji Jingumae Takeshita Street for some fun shopping.

For dinner, try some local izakaya dishes at Toriyoshi. Afterward, visit the Roppongi Hills Observatory for panoramic views of Tokyo's skyline.

Arrive in Kyoto and start your day with a visit to the Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Marvel at its stunning golden architecture and serene surroundings. Afterward, visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from its wooden terrace.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Kyoto, such as Nishiki Market for a variety of fresh seafood and local delicacies. After lunch, explore the historic streets of Higashiyama District and visit the traditional shops and tea houses.

For dinner, try some traditional Kyoto cuisine at Kyoto Kitcho Arashiyama. Afterward, take a stroll along the Philosopher's Path and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Start your day with a visit to the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Take a peaceful walk through the towering bamboo stalks and immerse yourself in nature. Afterward, visit the Tenryu-ji Temple and explore its beautiful gardens.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura and savor their traditional Kyoto-style cuisine. After lunch, visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine and hike through its famous torii gates. Take in the breathtaking views of Kyoto from the mountaintop.

Head back to Kyoto and enjoy dinner at Kikunoi, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its exquisite kaiseki cuisine. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Gion District and immerse yourself in Kyoto's traditional geisha culture.

Visit the historic Nijo Castle and explore its stunning gardens and beautifully preserved palace. Learn about the castle's history and admire the intricate architectural details.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Kyoto Gogyo Ramen and savor their unique burnt miso ramen. After lunch, visit the Kodai-ji Temple and take a peaceful stroll through its Zen gardens.

For dinner, try some traditional Kyoto kaiseki cuisine at Kichisen. Afterward, explore the charming streets of Pontocho Alley and experience Kyoto's nightlife.

Spend a magical day at Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea. Enjoy thrilling rides, meet beloved Disney characters, and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere.

Indulge in a delicious lunch at one of the many restaurants within the theme park. After lunch, continue exploring the park and experience the various attractions and shows.

Enjoy dinner at a themed restaurant within the theme park. Afterward, catch the nighttime parade or fireworks show before heading back to Tokyo.

Explore the trendy neighborhood of Harajuku and discover its unique fashion boutiques and street art. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the famous Meiji Jingumae Takeshita Street for some fun shopping.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a themed cafe in Harajuku, such as Kawaii Monster Cafe. After lunch, visit Akihabara, the center of anime and manga culture in Tokyo. Explore the numerous shops and arcades filled with anime merchandise and try some Japanese snacks.

For dinner, try some traditional Japanese izakaya dishes at Tsukada Nojo. Afterward, immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Akihabara and explore the various themed cafes and game centers.

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Tokyo Tower. Enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo from its observation deck and learn about its history and significance.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Sushi Zanmai and savor their fresh sushi. After lunch, take a scenic boat ride to Odaiba and explore the futuristic entertainment district. Visit attractions such as the TeamLab Borderless Digital Art Museum and the Gundam Statue.

For dinner, try some delicious tempura at Tsunahachi. Afterward, take a romantic walk along the Odaiba Seaside Park and enjoy the stunning views of Tokyo Bay.

Visit Ueno Park and explore its beautiful gardens and cultural attractions. Don't miss the chance to visit the Tokyo National Museum and admire its extensive collection of Japanese art.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Ueno Yamashita and savor their traditional Japanese dishes. After lunch, visit the bustling Ameya-Yokocho Market and experience its vibrant atmosphere. Explore the various stalls and shops selling a wide range of goods.

For dinner, try some authentic Japanese yakitori at Torikizoku. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around Ueno Park and enjoy the peaceful evening ambiance.

Start your day with a visit to the Tsukiji Fish Market, one of the world's largest fish markets. Explore the various seafood stalls and try some fresh sushi for breakfast.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Sushi Dai and savor their renowned omakase sushi. After lunch, take a relaxing cruise along the Sumida River and enjoy the scenic views of Tokyo's skyline.

For dinner, try some traditional izakaya dishes at Izakaya Shinjuku. Afterward, take a stroll around Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and admire the beautiful cherry blossoms (if in season).

Enjoy your last morning in Tokyo and have breakfast at a local cafe. Take some time to do any last-minute shopping or visit any attractions you may have missed.

Depart from Tokyo and head to the airport for your return journey.

Safe travels back home!