Konnichiwa, Guess which place? Yes, it’s Japan. It is a country that holds many cultural experiences alongside advanced technological advances in its society. The best places to visit in Japan include old temples, peaceful gardens, and lovely towns with neon lights. However, these suggestions help you to plan your Japan itinerary and maximize your time in one, two, or three weeks.
First-time travellers can get the 1-week option on this blog. Furthermore, for the 2-week and 3-week options, you can visit the most famous cities, visit cultural events, get travel tips, and much more.
1-Week Itinerary: Highlights of Japan
Day 1-3: Tokyo
Explore Tokyo, Japan’s biggest city, with its mix of old and new buildings. After seeing Tokyo’s most famous landmark, the Shibuya Crossing, visit Asakusa’s Senso-Ji Temple. Additionally, visit Shinjuku for its colourful lifestyle and illuminated streets at night.
A day trip to Hakone is one of the most popular and easy to plan. The area is famous for its hot springs (onsens) and views of Mt. Fuji. The view here is a nice break from the noise and chaos of the city, and it also shows you the lush green side of Japan.
Food tips: You should try sushi at Tsukiji OUTER MARKET and ramen in Shinjuku. If you get hungry, you can also go to the streets of Harajuku for interesting food with bright colours, like takoyaki or colourful crepes.
Day 4-5: Kyoto
Take the bullet train to Kyoto, which used to be Japan’s capital. Start your trip by visiting the fantastic Fushimi Inari Shrine. It has about a thousand torii gates set against a mountain background. Next, go to Kinkaku-ji, which means “Golden Pavilion.” Moreover, this is an ancient structure with golden roofs surrounded by water.
The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is a must-see on any trip; it offers one of the most stunning natural experiences. In the Gion area, people sometimes see geisha walking around. Also, this area is part of old Kyoto, and people can walk through it. Before starting your trip, make a list of the best places to visit in Japan.
Food tips: Kyoto is famous for its fancy kaiseki dining. Explore the local cuisine and green tea along with sweets at Nishiki Market.
Day 6-7: Osaka
Osaka is the place to end the week because it’s all about having fun and eating good food. Visit Osaka Castle, a famous landmark that shows the core of the city’s history, before going to Dotonbori, which is full of bright lights and delicious food. Universal Studios in Japan is a great place to plan a family-friendly vacation. Moreover, both kids and adults will love it.
Food tips: Osaka’s origin food includes takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes). You can also get these tasty snacks on almost every street in Dotonbori, which is worth mentioning.
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2-Week Itinerary: Expanding Beyond the Highlights
Start in lively Tokyo, then take in the scenery of Hakone including views of Mt. Fuji and rejuvenate in the onsen before heading to Kyoto to explore ancient temples and bamboo groves. Casually concluding the first week in high spirited and vibrant Osaka. Week two focuses on uncovering the offbeat locations to discover and experience the hidden cultural delights of Japan.
Day 8-9: Nara
Nara, which you can quickly reach by train from Kyoto, is where Todai-ji Temple is, home to the world’s most giant bronze Buddha statue. Visiting Nara Park and feeding free-walking deer there will be fun for kids and animal lovers.
Take a walk to the lovely Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Furthermore, during festivals, thousands of lanterns line the path, which is surrounded by trees.
Food tips: Try kakinoha-zushi, which is sushi with persimmon leaves and can be bought as a packed lunch for your temple hopping.
Day 10-12: Hiroshima & Miyajima
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is very tragic to walk around because it tells the real story of the atomic bombing and the fight for peace by people. If you want to learn more about the history of the place, you should go to the museum. Also, list the best places to visit in Japan when you start your travel plans.
The best places to visit in Japan include a day trip to Miyajima Island, which has well-known sights like the Itsukushima Shrine and the rolling torii gate. The peaceful island, holy deer, and also beautiful nature walk make it a great place to spend the day.
Food tips: Okonomiyaki from Hiroshima is a type of savoury pancake with layers, and Miyajima Island is known for having the best oysters.
Day 13-14: Kanazawa
Go to Kanazawa City, where you will experience a mix of old and new things. One of Japan’s most famous and well-kept parks is the Kenrokuen Garden. However, there are guided tours of the samurai and geisha areas that visitors can take to get a feel for old Japan.
If you like modern art, you should find some interesting ideas at the 21st Century Museum.
Food tips: People say that the fish at Kanazawa’s Omicho Market is the best in Japan. Also, try the fresh sushi in this area.
This sample program showcases Japanese history and culture flow over two weeks in the major Japanese cities. The third week is fantastic since it will allow you to go even further and get to know the Japanese people better.
3-Week Itinerary: Deep Dive into Japan’s Culture
During the first week, taste the energy of Japanese large cities, ancient temples, and attractions. The second week is about beautiful temples and history, and the third week is all about off the beaten path.
Day 15-17: Takayama & Shirakawa-go
Discover the beautiful old town of Takayama – the city’s many streets date back to the Edo period, and preserved attractions include traditional Japanese sake breweries. Besides, order Hida beef, a delicacy found in Japan.
Visit the town of Shirakawa-go, which is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and take in the gassho-zukuri or traditional houses with thatched roofs. These are some of the best places to visit in Japan.
Day 18-19: Nikko
The Toshogu Shrine in Nikko is one of the most beautiful and impressive sites in the country. Nature fans will also love this area. Parks, Lake Chuzenji, and Kegon Falls all provide a great vantage point for those wanting to enjoy Japan’s peaceful nature. Make sure you include this in your Japan itinerary.
Food tips: Taste yuba – a sweet made from tofu skin, and try Nikko soba, which also comes from this region.
Day 20-21: Hokkaido (Optional)
Hokkaido is in the northern part of Japan and is known for its beautiful scenery, sports, and seafood. In Sapporo, you can take your time to see the city and try different kinds of beer. Further, in Hakodate, you can enjoy fresh fish and a great view of the city.
Food tips: Try the famous ramen in Hokkaido, as well as the tasty dairy products and crab.
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to Japan
Transportation
Save the Japan Rail Pass for inter-city travel and use an app like Google Maps to move around within the city. Travelling by train is always great, especially since Japanese trains are very punctual and fast, so you will reach your destination quickly.
Best Time to Visit
Cherry blossoms look their best in the spring, and trees turn yellow in the fall. Moreover, the winter is the best time to ski, and the summer is the best time to go to events and watch fireworks. Plan your Japan itinerary as per your interests.
Cultural Etiquette
When you meet someone for the first time or are introduced to them, show respect by bowing. In Japan, people don’t wear shoes inside, especially in houses or temples, and they try to be quiet when in moving vehicles.
Language
Even though most of the signs are written in English, you should still learn words and sentences like “arigato” (thank you) and “sumimasen” (excuse me). To have a more in-depth conversation, it might be better to use a translation app.
Conclusion
Japan serves as a home of surprises, where ancient culture coexists with ultra-modern civilization. Whether you intend to spend a week, two weeks, or three weeks visiting the best places to visit in Japan, you can expect an experience that is both culturally and technologically unique.
Please modify this itinerary according to your preferences, and lets you discover Japan at your own pace! Share your thoughts and exciting ideas.
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