2 Weeks in Japan: 2 Itineraries

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One of the reasons I’ve always wanted to visit Japan was because of its cuisine. I’m not much of a foody when it comes to travelling to new places, but for Japan – it’s one of my main reasons to go.

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As I plan my trip, I was happy to discover that not only it’s healthy dishes I can enjoy but also lots of cultural and historical sites that I can visit.

Perfect sceneries may be found all around Japan, where visitors can enjoy their beauty. Skyscrapers, flashing neon signs, and cutting-edge technology are often the first things people imagine when they think about Japan, but the country is much more than its urban settings.

Japan is a year-round favourite among nature enthusiasts thanks to the breathtaking view of Mount Fuji, the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, the numerous gardens and temples, and the massive mountains. This East Asian country is also known for its history, culture, and of course, delicious cuisine.

Japan is situated in East Asia and near the Pacific Ocean. It is near China, North Korea, South Korea, Russia, and Taiwan. In this itinerary of 2 weeks in Japan, there are three travel plans that you can use.

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THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING JAPAN

4 images - downtown tokyo, onsen in japan, snowy road in Sapporo, and Mount fuji - 2 Weeks in Japan Itinerary

With numerous things to do in Japan, it can get overwhelming, especially for first-time travellers. There are a few things to consider before embarking on a 14-day trip in Japan. In this travel guide, you’ll find an outline to aid you in organising your vacation.

Read on to find out more about the quickest and most affordable means of transportation, the ideal time of year to travel, the most commonly spoken language, the methods of payment, and more. This list of practical tips for visiting Japan will also be useful.

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When is the best time to go to Japan

Japan’s peak season (April – May) is during the blooming of stunning cherry blossoms. Hanami, the yearly tradition of seeing the spring blossoms, draws both locals and foreign tourists to parks and gardens.

The fall season (August – November) is also quite popular with its autumn foliage and cooler mountain destinations.

Summer festivals and alpine hikes are both fantastic during the shoulder season (June – July). At the same time, the low season (December – March) is the ideal period for winter sports enthusiasts.

It offers inexpensive costs for attractions and lodging, except for Japan’s ski resorts. If you want to travel to Japan with less crowd, then come during winter.

Are 2 weeks enough for Japan

Yes, 2 weeks in Japan is plenty, especially if it’s your first time and want to see the top-rated sights such as Tokyo, Hiroshima, and Mount Fiji. If you want to avoid the wave of tourists, there are plenty of other smaller cities to explore, just as charming as the popular spots.

Due to having excellent transportation, travelling in Japan with limited time is doable given that you will arrive at the bus stop and metro station in time. If you find yourself with too much time in Japan, South Korea is just a quick flight away.

Getting around

The most favoured option for visitors to discover Japan is by train. Although it is not the cheapest option, it can definitely bring you almost anywhere in the nation with little hassle since the train is quick and reliable. Buses are much less expensive than the Shinkansen (bullet train) but are not as fast.

The ideal mode of transportation for trips to rural areas is a car, especially if two or more individuals are travelling. If you’re travelling to long-distance areas in Japan, flying on a plane is your best option. I recommend booking a flight ahead of time to get discounted prices.

Language and currency

Japanese is the official language of Japan and is spoken by the vast majority. If you’re travelling to major cities such as Osaka, Tokyo, and Kyoto and are exploring popular tourist landmarks, you don’t have to worry since some locals are proficient in English. In addition, English-language menus are also offered in select establishments. 

The national currency of Japan is the Yen. Although Japan is known for its high-tech surroundings, cash payments are still often preferred as a form of payment. The second most popular form of payment in Japan is konbini or payments made at convenience stores, followed by bank transfers or furikomi.

Visa

Japan has a friendly visa policy for foreign visitors who hold passports from most countries in the Americas, Australia, New Zealand Europe, South Korea, and some places in Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.

If you’re from in the list above, you can enjoy visa-free for between 15 days to 180 days depending on your nationality. Other visitors not mentioned here must apply for a Japan tourist visa in advance.

What is the average cost for 2 weeks in Japan

Japan is not an affordable place to spend your vacation. For solo visitors, you are looking at spending $1,500 for 2 weeks in Japan as a mid-range traveller. You can save a little bit by staying in hostel dorm rooms and bringing down your cost to $1,000 for backpackers.

For those who are planning an extravagant trip, it will cost around $3,000 or more, which allows you to enjoy high-end hotels and restaurants.

If you are a couple, you can easily share a private room. The most expensive part of travelling around Japan is accommodation and transportation. It’s cheaper to take the bus, but it’s slower. While eating street food will also save you some bucks versus a sit-down restaurant.

Other basic travel tips

If it’s your first time travelling or feeling a little overwhelmed with so many options to book your travel arrangements, perhaps this list of my favourite travel tools can help you simplify things. I love these services because they allow me to cancel some of the bookings without paying any cancellation fees.

PINNED MAP OF MUST-SEE PLACES IN JAPAN

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS IN JAPAN ITINERARY

The fact that Japan is undeniably packed with fascinating locations, delectable cuisine, entertaining activities, and a vibrant culture might make itinerary planning challenging. However, I’ve put together 3 different itineraries to help you create your own, which you can easily modify to fit your unique journey.

Below is a list of places you can travel to for certain days. I also listed another section for the activities you can do in every city to make the most out of your 2 weeks in Japan trip. It’s not supposed to be adhered to rigidly, you may vary it as you go.

Itinerary #1: First-timers (Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Osaka)

For first-timers in Japan, the must-see tourist destinations you should include in your itinerary are Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka. The bullet train system (shinkansen) connects each of these cities effectively, allowing for rapid travel between them.

Tokyo is home to incredible restaurants, gorgeous gardens, cutting-edge architecture, quaint neighbourhoods, and a cityscape that glows with neon lights. Even though Kyoto is quite different from Tokyo, it is equally captivating. It is among the most culturally diverse cities in the world.

Osaka is recognized for being more about tastes than sights, but it also has a ton of attractions, such as the Osaka Castle and the Osaka Aquarium. Hiroshima is known primarily as the location of one of the two atomic bombs detonated on Japan during World War II. Here, you can see the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome.

Tokyo for 3 days

Tokyo, Japan’s capital, is one of the top Asian tourist destinations as it has the Imperial Palace, fancy hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and amazing shopping. This crowded city is the largest in Japan and makes a fantastic starting point for travelling around the rest of the country.

Stroll through one of Tokyo’s most historic areas, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, which boasts about 1,500 cherry trees, making it one of the best places to see cherry blossoms. Don’t miss out on the 634-m tall Tokyo Skytree, which is the tallest building in the nation.

It has swiftly risen to the top of every traveller’s bucket list due to its breathtaking panoramic views from its observation decks and restaurant.

2 images - Fushimi Inari Shrine and Senso-Ji Temple - 2 Weeks in Japan Itinerary

Kyoto for 4 days

In the Kansai region, Kyoto is one of the major places for religion in Japan. It still plays a significant role in Japanese religion, with 200 Shinto shrines and 30 of its temples still acting as hubs for different Buddhist groups.

The Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, one of Kyoto’s must-see attractions, is among Japan’s most prominent shrines.

The best way to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto is by Shinkansen (bullet train). The fastest shinkansen is called Nozomi, which takes around 2 hr 15 min with a distance of 454 km (282 miles).

Keep in mind that you can’t ride Nozomi with a Japan Rail Pass, but you can ride the second fastest Shinkansen, called Hikari, in about 2 hr 30 min.

Hiroshima for 3 days

Hiroshima is home to museums, gardens, galleries, and significant cultural occasions like the Hiroshima Flower Festival. The Peace Memorial Museum, which features several chilling exhibits concentrating on the city’s atomic attack and exhibits addressing the problem of world peace, is a must-see when visiting Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

Another noteworthy destination of Hiroshima is Miyajima, often known as “Shrine Island,” which is located in Hiroshima Bay and spans around 30 square kilometres.

With a total distance of 336 km (227 miles), the quickest way to get from Kyoto to Hiroshima is by a Shinkansen called Nozomi, which takes roughly 1 hr 41 min.

Osaka for 3 days

When creating your itinerary, remember that Osaka actually has two important city centres. Spend some time in the “South” district if being close to the finest dining, entertainment, and shopping options is vital to you.

Whereas the main business district of Osaka is in the “North” district. You can end your trip here with your family or friends as you immerse yourselves in the excitement and adrenaline rush at Universal Studios Japan.

The journey on the Shinkansen train from Hiroshima to Osaka is around 1 hr 31 min via Nozomi, covering a distance of 332 km (206 miles). You can also catch your flight back home or to your next destination from Osaka instead of travelling all the way back to Tokyo.

Itinerary #2: Winter (Tokyo, Nagano, Yamagata, Hokkaido)

You can experience an entirely different aspect of Japan and avoid the large crowds by going there in the winter. With the addition of snow, the calm-inducing qualities of Japanese architecture are enhanced, taking you to new levels of tranquillity.

Given that Japan has a substantial share of mountains, the skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports offered here are among the best in the world. Hokkaido is famed for its ski resorts and fluffy snow.

On the other hand, Tokyo, Nagano, and Yamagata are great picks since they also offer unique experiences.

Without its iconic onsen (hot spring), winter in Japan would be completely uninteresting. Choose an outdoor onsen on a snowy day since there isn’t anything more enchanting than bathing in warm water with snowflakes swirling around you.

2 images - Zao onsen and Sapporo Clock Tower - 2 Weeks in Japan Itinerary

Tokyo for 3 days

Start your trip in Tokyo as it offers a winter activity for just about everyone, from illuminations and Japanese New Year’s celebrations to festivals and Christmas shopping.

Every traveller to Japan should take a traditional Japanese bath (onsen) at least once, whether you are heading to a small neighbourhood or luxurious hot spring spas,

The Japanese-style hot pot, also called Nabe, is a must-try dish for tourists who visit Japan, especially during winter.

“Hatsumode,” the first visit of the year, is a time for both joy and devotion. Although the Meiji Shrine can get rather busy, the dynamic atmosphere makes it worthwhile to stop by. This is the ideal opportunity to partake in one of Tokyo’s most traditional Japanese activities during the winter.

Nagano for 3 days

The Northern Japanese Alps, where several could reach heights of more than 10,000 ft. can be found near Nagano.

Set against the towering sight of Matsumoto Castle, The Matsumoto Ice Sculpture Festival is a yearly event where you can witness sculptors create impeccable ice creations, as well as indulge in snacks, drink Japanese sake, and participate in family-friendly activities.

You can also stay at Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort which offers both indoor and outdoor spaces for kids to enjoy and a chance to sledge down the resort’s little slopes.

The fastest way to travel from Tokyo to Nagano is by Kagayaki with Hokuriku Shinkansen, which roughly takes 1 hr 23 min with a distance of 225 km (140 miles). Alternatively, you can go on a 4 hr 15 min bus ride with Syoei Bus SY.

Yamagata for 3 days

You’ll be surprised that many more undiscovered snow-capped peaks in Japan (apart from Mt Fuji) are worth visiting for winter sports. Mt. Zao in Yamagata Prefecture is one of them, with 12 courses and 14 slopes to experience.

You may even ride a cable car to see some of the most surreal landscape views here. It’s also home to a unique tribe of ‘snow monsters’ that form on the mountain peaks.

The fastest shinkansen that will take you from Nagano to Yamagata is called Kagayaki, which takes around 1 hr 23 min with a distance of 351 km (218 miles). Alternatively, you can hop on a 4-hour and 35-minute bus ride with Syoei Bus SY.

Hokkaido for 4 days

Sapporo, the largest city in Hokkaido, is known for the Sapporo Snow Festival, which draws over 2 million tourists every winter. Travelling to Hokkaido became trendy after it hosted the Winter Olympics in 1972.

Due to its many excellent slopes, all of which are conveniently accessible from the city centre of Sapporo, the Mount Moiwa Ski Resort attracts snow sports enthusiasts across the globe.

The fastest way to get from Yamagata to Sapporo, Hokkaido, is by a non-stop flight of 1h 15m. Unfortunately, there are no trains or bus rides available.

Itinerary #3: Avoid the Tourists (Tokyo, Hakone, Naoshima Island, Motoyama)

The bustling towns of Kyoto and Osaka typically come to mind when dreaming of a trip to Japan. The Land of the Rising Sun Islands is extraordinarily diverse, offering a wealth of sights and experiences.

If you’re looking for unique things to do, off-the-beaten parth, and experience the authentic side of Japan, then this itinerary is for you.

It’s practically a given that you’ll encounter a horde of tourists at Japan’s major tourist spots. If you want to blend in with the locals while exploring some fascinating hidden spots in Japan, then keep on reading.

Here are my top suggestions for places to visit in Japan that are off the beaten path for tourists who want to venture past the neon signs and skyscrapers of the major cities.

2 images - Itsukushima Shrine over the water and Asemi River flowing - 2 Weeks in Japan Itinerary

Tokyo for 3 days

You might have seen all the highlights of Tokyo on your first trip. But there is still a lot of ground to cover, making it a wonderful place to start your journey.

Perhaps you don’t feel like exploring Tokyo. You will still have to land here, might as well smartly use your time. Before you travel to Japan’s off-the-beaten-path locations, be sure to complete the necessary preparations, such as having cash on hand, a local sim card, and a rail pass.

For Ghibli fans, Shiro-Hige Cream Puff Factory, owned by the sister of Studio Ghibli’s co-founder, is a great place to have morning tea and pastries shaped like Totoro. Ensure to visit the 47-story Shibuya Sky Observatory, the biggest rooftop observation platform in Japan, to get a bird’s-eye view of the city.

Nezu Shrine is an underrated shrine in Tokyo that is renowned for its vivid Azalea Flower Festival in the spring and its vermilion Torri gates.

Hakone for 3 days

Along with its abundance of hot springs and stunning scenery, Hakone is a haven for artists. Its museums and galleries, such as the lakeside Naruwaka Museum of Art and the lush hills around the Hakone Open-Air Museum, make the most of the breathtaking nature in the area.

One of Hakone’s more picturesque and must-do activities is embarking on the Lake Ashi cruise while on a pirate ship.

The total travel distance from Tokyo to Hakone is estimated to be 86 km (53 miles). Odakyu Railway operates between Hakone-Yumoto Station and Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station, and it takes roughly 1 hr 25 min by the “Romance Car” express. For a cheaper option, you can take the Odakyu Hakone Highway Bus, which arrives around 2 hr 30 min.

You can also take a flight from Haneda Airport (Tokyo) or Mt Fuji Shizuoka Airport to Okayama Airport and then travel to Tamano to reach Naoshima Island.

Naoshima Island for 3 days

Naoshima Island, which has a peculiar and famous museum, provides various services and is one of the nation’s most unique hideaway adventures. It is dotted with gorgeous beaches and exquisite architecture.

At Benesse House, there is a chic Japanese restaurant, lodging, and intriguing artwork, including outside the structure in the form of paintings, photographs, sculptures, and installations.

The fastest way to get from Naoshima to Takamatsu is by a non-stop flight, which takes 1 hr and 20 min. Multiple ferries operate between Miyanoura Port and Takamatsu’s ferry terminal per day in Naoshima.

Most tourists arrive on Naoshima Island through Miyanoura Port which takes about 1 hr.

Motoyama for 4 days

This city in Japan’s Shikoku Prefecture is the ideal escape for those who enjoy being surrounded by nature, making it the best place to end your 14 days in Japan. You can engage in river activities, outdoor cooking, trekking, and camping at Mont-Bell Outdoor Village

Motoyama, where there are skilled instructors and all necessary equipment is set up for you. The facility also has a restaurant, cosy lodging, a bathhouse, and a shop selling regional specialities.

If you rent a car, you can drive from Naoshima Island to Motoyama in under 3 hours. You can also take a ferry from Naoshima Island to Takamatsu, then take a bus from there to Motoyama.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO (by city)

Spending 2 weeks in Japan means exploring the vibrant city, walking through historical sites, learning about the Japanese culture, dining at incredible restaurants, and even skiing (depending on the season you plan to visit).

You can maximise your time in Japan with enough planning and a visual idea of the must-see spots in the country.

2 images - Osaka Castle and Atomic Bomb Done in Hiroshima - 2 Weeks in Japan Itinerary

Tokyo

Kyoto

Hiroshima

Osaka

Nagano

Yamagata

Sapporo, Hokkaido

Hakone

Naoshima Island

  • Benesse House Museum
  • Chichu Art Museum
  • Naoshima Public Bath
  • Shodo Island
  • Ando Museum

Motoyama

  • Kizenzan Park
  • Asemi River
  • Mount Shiraga
  • Yoshinobu Rice Terraces
  • Vine Bridge in the Iya Valley
  • Mount Miune

MUST-TRY JAPANESE DISHES, DRINKS, AND SNACKS

Honestly, if there’s one cuisine I can only eat for the rest of my life, it would be Japanese dishes. It’s so yummy, and balanced, and tasty! Definitely worth the visit just for the food.

Whether you are a fan of Japanese dishes back home or not, you definitely don’t want to miss trying out these tasty and authentic Japanese dishes during your 2 weeks in Japan.

If you don’t like the idea of raw fish, there are other foods you can order, such as ramen, karaage, and gyoza. If you’re looking for something new, how about Buta-No-Shogayaki or Champion?

3 images - sushi, ramen, and pouring sake
  • Sushi – Fresh fish over vinegared rice, ranging from simple nigiri to elaborate rolls.
  • Ramen – A noodle soup with various flavours like miso, soy sauce, and pork bone broth.
  • Tempura – Lightly battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables, crispy and delicate.
  • Okonomiyaki – A savoury pancake filled with a mix of ingredients like cabbage, pork, and seafood, topped with sauce and mayonnaise.
  • Takoyaki – Ball-shaped snacks made of wheat flour batter and cooked with minced octopus, tasty and popular street food.
  • Tonkatsu – Breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet, served with cabbage and a thick sauce.
  • Yakitori – Skewered and grilled chicken, often seasoned with salt or a sweet soy sauce glaze.
  • Soba – Buckwheat noodles, served either cold with a dipping sauce or in a hot broth.
  • Mochi – Soft and chewy rice cake, often filled with sweet red bean paste.
  • Matcha Ice Cream – Green tea-flavoured ice cream, a perfect mix of sweet and slightly bitter.
  • Dorayaki – Two pancake-like patties filled with sweet red bean paste, a favourite of many.
  • Sake – Japanese rice wine, can be enjoyed warm or cold.
  • Matcha – Powdered green tea, traditionally whisked with hot water into a frothy drink.
  • Umeshu – Sweet and tangy plum wine, great as an aperitif or dessert wine.

ACCOMMODATIONS (per city)

Since Japan is an all-year-round destination, booking your hotel in advance is highly recommended so you can avoid being left with not-so-good choices and pay higher prices. Here are some ideas to help you start:

Tokyo

Kyoto

Hiroshima

Osaka

Nagano

Sapporo, Hokkaido

Hakone

Naoshima Island

Motoyama

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN JAPAN ITINERARY

Despite having large, densely populated cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, Japan also boasts much unspoiled natural beauty. Since Japan is recognized as the birthplace of manga, if you’re an anime fan, this area is for you.

For the history buff, visiting temples, shrines, and castles can teach you a lot about Japan’s past. There are also plenty of museums to explore and even World War II-related sites.

In Japan, everything is spotlessly clean. You won’t find any litter anywhere on the streets. Japanese are also known for following the rules religiously, and being polite to one another is expected. Remember to follow the rules to avoid any problems during your trip.

Boasting many attractions, activities, and points of interest to explore, your two weeks in Japan will undoubtedly be a significant investment of your time and money. I hope this compilation of travel itineraries for 2 weeks in Japan has been helpful.

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A 14-day Japan itinerary includes Tokyo’s modern marvels, Kyoto’s historic temples, the serene beauty of Mt. Fuji, Osaka’s vibrant food scene, Hiroshima’s poignant history, and exploring traditional villages like Takayama for a perfect cultural journey. via @twoweektraveller