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Experience the best of Japan in 14 days, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto and the vibrant energy of Osaka this spring!

Experience the best of Japan in 14 days, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto and the vibrant energy of Osaka this spring!
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
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I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Japan, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.

Explore the diverse garden styles, including English Landscape, French Formal, and Japanese Traditional. Allow ample time to appreciate the meticulously maintained landscapes and serene atmosphere.

Explore the diverse garden styles, including English Landscape, French Formal, and Japanese Traditional. Allow ample time to appreciate the meticulously maintained landscapes and serene atmosphere.

Wander through this atmospheric narrow alleyway filled with tiny yakitori stalls and bars. It’s a great spot to experience a nostalgic Showa-era vibe and enjoy grilled skewers.

Wander through this atmospheric narrow alleyway filled with tiny yakitori stalls and bars. It’s a great spot to experience a nostalgic Showa-era vibe and enjoy grilled skewers.

Witness the iconic scramble crossing from a nearby vantage point like the Starbucks overlooking the intersection. Observe the organized chaos as hundreds of people cross from all directions simultaneously.

Witness the iconic scramble crossing from a nearby vantage point like the Starbucks overlooking the intersection. Observe the organized chaos as hundreds of people cross from all directions simultaneously.

Ascend to this modern observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo's skyline. The open-air deck offers a unique perspective, especially at sunset and after dark. Consider booking tickets in advance to avoid queues.

Ascend to this modern observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo's skyline. The open-air deck offers a unique perspective, especially at sunset and after dark. Consider booking tickets in advance to avoid queues.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find a traditional sweet shop and try Mochi, a Japanese rice cake often filled with sweet paste. It’s a popular and versatile snack.
Mochi
Seek out a popular ramen shop in Shibuya and choose your preferred broth and toppings. It's a hearty and flavorful noodle soup perfect for lunch.
Ramen
Enjoy fresh Sushi at a reputable establishment in Shinjuku. Consider trying a mix of nigiri and maki rolls for a classic Japanese dining experience.
SushiShinjuku offers a wide range of dining, entertainment, and shopping options conveniently located near major transport links.
Shinjuku offers a wide range of dining, entertainment, and shopping options conveniently located near major transport links.
Book your Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets in advance to ensure availability for your journey to Kyoto tomorrow.

Arrive early to explore the bustling market stalls. Sample fresh seafood and local snacks. Try tamagoyaki (rolled omelet) and various types of grilled seafood.

Arrive early to explore the bustling market stalls. Sample fresh seafood and local snacks. Try tamagoyaki (rolled omelet) and various types of grilled seafood.

Located in the Tokyo Skytree Town, this modern aquarium features a large tank with jellyfish and rays. It's a good option for a break from the outdoor market.

Located in the Tokyo Skytree Town, this modern aquarium features a large tank with jellyfish and rays. It's a good option for a break from the outdoor market.

Ascend this towering structure for panoramic views of the city. Consider visiting in the late afternoon to see the city transition from day to night.

Ascend this towering structure for panoramic views of the city. Consider visiting in the late afternoon to see the city transition from day to night.

Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Sumida River. It offers pleasant views, especially in the evening when the city lights up. Consider a short river cruise.

Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Sumida River. It offers pleasant views, especially in the evening when the city lights up. Consider a short river cruise.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Look for a ramen shop in the Solamachi mall at Tokyo Skytree base. Try a rich tonkotsu (pork bone broth) ramen or a lighter shoyu (soy sauce based) ramen.
Ramen
Seek out a dedicated tempura restaurant near Asakusa for dinner. Enjoy expertly fried seafood and vegetables served with tentsuyu dipping sauce and grated daikon.
TempuraAsakusa is a great base for exploring traditional Tokyo, offering a variety of dining and shopping options near many of the day's attractions.
Asakusa is a great base for exploring traditional Tokyo, offering a variety of dining and shopping options near many of the day's attractions.
Book your Shinkansen bullet train tickets in advance, especially if traveling during peak season. You can purchase them at major train stations or online.

This peaceful oasis dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken is a welcome escape. Arrive early to experience the serene atmosphere before the crowds.

This peaceful oasis dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken is a welcome escape. Arrive early to experience the serene atmosphere before the crowds.
~4 hours
Explore the vibrant Takeshita Street for quirky fashion and unique snacks. Then, wander down Cat Street for a more relaxed vibe with trendy boutiques and cafes.
~3 hours
Ascend the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for free panoramic city views. Later, immerse yourself in the atmospheric Shinjuku Golden Gai, a network of narrow alleys with tiny, traditional bars.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find a street vendor selling Taiyaki, fish-shaped cakes often filled with red bean paste. They make for a fun and tasty snack.
Taiyaki
Seek out a popular ramen shop in Shinjuku, known for its rich broths and variety of toppings. Try a Tonkotsu (pork bone broth) ramen for a classic experience.
Ramen
Enjoy an affordable sushi dinner at a conveyor belt sushi restaurant (kaiten-zushi) in Shinjuku. It's a fun way to try a variety of fresh sushi rolls and nigiri.
SushiShinjuku offers diverse dining, shopping, and entertainment options, perfect for evening exploration.
Shinjuku offers diverse dining, shopping, and entertainment options, perfect for evening exploration.
Book your Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets in advance to secure seats for your journey to Kyoto tomorrow.

Explore the streets around Senso-ji Temple, soaking in the traditional atmosphere and browsing the local shops. This area offers a glimpse into Tokyo's past.

Explore the streets around Senso-ji Temple, soaking in the traditional atmosphere and browsing the local shops. This area offers a glimpse into Tokyo's past.

Visit Tokyo's oldest temple, paying respects at the main hall and exploring the surrounding structures. The temple is a vibrant spiritual center.

Visit Tokyo's oldest temple, paying respects at the main hall and exploring the surrounding structures. The temple is a vibrant spiritual center.

Walk down this bustling shopping street leading to Senso-ji Temple, where you can find souvenirs and traditional snacks. It's a great place to pick up unique gifts.

Walk down this bustling shopping street leading to Senso-ji Temple, where you can find souvenirs and traditional snacks. It's a great place to pick up unique gifts.
~3 hours
Take a scenic cruise on the Sumida River for unique views of the Tokyo skyline, bridges, and landmarks. This offers a relaxing perspective of the city.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Enjoy a light Tempura lunch at a restaurant in Asakusa where assorted seafood and vegetables are deep-fried in a crisp batter.
Tempura
For dinner, seek out a sushi restaurant and try a variety of fresh, expertly prepared nigiri and maki rolls.
SushiStay in Asakusa to be close to the historic sights and transportation options for the rest of your trip.
Stay in Asakusa to be close to the historic sights and transportation options for the rest of your trip.
Book your Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets in advance to Kyoto, as they can sell out, especially during peak travel seasons.
~3 hours
Arrive in Kyoto and check into your accommodation. Leave your luggage if the room is not ready.

Explore this vibrant market known as Kyoto's kitchen. Sample various local snacks and ingredients, and pick up souvenirs.

Explore this vibrant market known as Kyoto's kitchen. Sample various local snacks and ingredients, and pick up souvenirs.

Wander through the historic geisha district. Admire the traditional wooden machiya houses and perhaps spot a geiko or maiko.

Wander through the historic geisha district. Admire the traditional wooden machiya houses and perhaps spot a geiko or maiko.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find a restaurant in the Nishiki Market area and try a sushi selection, enjoying the fresh, local seafood.
Sushi
For a special dinner, seek out a traditional Kaiseki meal in Gion, a meticulously prepared multi-course Japanese haute cuisine. Reservations are highly recommended.
KaisekiStaying near Kyoto Station offers excellent access to public transport for exploring the city and easy connections for onward travel.
Staying near Kyoto Station offers excellent access to public transport for exploring the city and easy connections for onward travel.
Book your Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets in advance for your journey to Osaka on Day 6 for better prices and availability.
~2 hours
Arrive early to avoid crowds and experience the serene atmosphere of the towering bamboo stalks. Explore the pathways as the morning light filters through.

Visit the beautiful gardens of this Zen Buddhist temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy the contrast between the manicured landscapes and the natural surroundings.

Visit the beautiful gardens of this Zen Buddhist temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy the contrast between the manicured landscapes and the natural surroundings.

This stunning Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf is a must-see. It's particularly picturesque when reflected in the surrounding pond.

This stunning Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf is a must-see. It's particularly picturesque when reflected in the surrounding pond.

Contemplate the enigmatic rock garden at Ryoan-ji, famous for its simplicity and the meditative atmosphere it inspires. The temple grounds also offer pleasant walking paths.

Contemplate the enigmatic rock garden at Ryoan-ji, famous for its simplicity and the meditative atmosphere it inspires. The temple grounds also offer pleasant walking paths.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find a restaurant specializing in Kyoto cuisine and try Yudofu, a simple yet flavorful dish of boiled tofu, often served with soy sauce and other condiments.
Yudofu
Seek out a casual ramen shop and enjoy a hearty bowl of ramen, a noodle soup dish that is popular across Japan for a satisfying lunch.
RamenStaying in Arashiyama provides convenient access to the bamboo grove and surrounding temples, with a range of dining options.
Staying in Arashiyama provides convenient access to the bamboo grove and surrounding temples, with a range of dining options.
Book train tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, for your journey from Kyoto to the next city.
~3 hours
Arrive early to avoid crowds and experience the thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up the mountainside. Allow ample time to hike partway up for scenic views.
In this activity, participants typically learn the art of brush strokes and character formation under the guidance of experienced instructors. Enthusiasts enjoy a hands-on cultural immersion, discovering the delicate balance between precision and creativity. Tokyo offers a unique backdrop rich with tradition and modernity, enhancing the overall learning atmosphere.
~3 hours
This iconic temple offers stunning views over Kyoto, especially from its wooden stage. Explore the charming Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka slopes nearby for traditional shops and tea houses.
~2 hours
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along this canal-side path, particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season. It connects Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) to Nanzen-ji temple and is lined with charming cafes.
A Tea Ceremony Experience in Kyoto, Japan invites travelers into tranquil, carefully arranged spaces where the slow, deliberate preparation of matcha becomes a calming, hands-on lesson in ritual and etiquette. You'll typically learn about seasonal symbolism and precise movements, and most classes include tasting sweets, demonstrations, and time for quiet reflection, offering cultural insight and a restorative pause.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Enjoy a traditional Yudofu lunch in the Higashiyama district, a simple and delicate boiled tofu dish.
Yudofu
For a special dinner, experience a multi-course Kaiseki meal, a traditional Japanese haute cuisine that is as artistic as it is delicious.
KaisekiStay near Kyoto Station for easy access to transportation links and a variety of dining and shopping options.
Stay near Kyoto Station for easy access to transportation links and a variety of dining and shopping options.
Book your Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets in advance for the journey from Kyoto to Osaka.

Explore the Ninomaru Palace and its 'nightingale floors' designed to alert guards of intruders. Allow ample time for the extensive gardens.

Explore the Ninomaru Palace and its 'nightingale floors' designed to alert guards of intruders. Allow ample time for the extensive gardens.
~3 hours
Participate in a hands-on experience like pottery or calligraphy in the Gion or Higashiyama district. Book in advance as workshops often fill up.

Wander through Hanami-koji street in Gion, keeping an eye out for geiko and maiko. Visit Yasaka Shrine, especially beautiful when lit up at night.

Wander through Hanami-koji street in Gion, keeping an eye out for geiko and maiko. Visit Yasaka Shrine, especially beautiful when lit up at night.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find a restaurant specializing in Yudofu, a simple yet elegant dish of simmered tofu in broth, particularly comforting on a cooler evening.
YudofuStay near Gion to easily access the evening activities and traditional sights.
Stay near Gion to easily access the evening activities and traditional sights.
Book your Shinkansen (bullet train) ticket from Kyoto Station to Shin Osaka Station in advance for guaranteed seats.
~3 hours
Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka Station. Allow ample time for checking into your accommodation and getting oriented.

Explore the impressive Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city's history. Consider visiting the surrounding Nishinomaru Garden for excellent views of the castle, especially during cherry blossom season.

Explore the impressive Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city's history. Consider visiting the surrounding Nishinomaru Garden for excellent views of the castle, especially during cherry blossom season.

Wander through Kuromon Ichiba Market, known as "Osaka's Kitchen." Sample various street foods and fresh produce; look for takoyaki (octopus balls) and fresh seafood.

Wander through Kuromon Ichiba Market, known as "Osaka's Kitchen." Sample various street foods and fresh produce; look for takoyaki (octopus balls) and fresh seafood.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find a local ramen shop and enjoy a hearty bowl of Tonkotsu ramen, a rich pork-bone broth noodle soup.
Ramen
Head to a casual eatery in the Dotonbori area and try Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake dish with various fillings like cabbage, meat, and seafood.
OkonomiyakiNamba is a vibrant area that offers easy access to Kuromon Market and is a great hub for exploring Osaka.
Namba is a vibrant area that offers easy access to Kuromon Market and is a great hub for exploring Osaka.
Take the Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka station to Tokyo. Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

The park is vast, so plan your must-see attractions in advance. Consider purchasing an Express Pass to minimize wait times for popular rides. Don't miss the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World.

The park is vast, so plan your must-see attractions in advance. Consider purchasing an Express Pass to minimize wait times for popular rides. Don't miss the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

For breakfast, find a local spot near your accommodation and try Takoyaki, savory octopus balls, a popular Osaka street food.
Takoyaki
Enjoy lunch at a ramen shop within Universal Studios Japan. Look for rich tonkotsu or shoyu broth options.
RamenStaying near Universal Studios Japan offers convenient access to the theme park and various dining options.
Staying near Universal Studios Japan offers convenient access to the theme park and various dining options.
Book your Shinkansen tickets in advance for your journey from Shin Osaka Station to Tokyo Station.

Explore one of the world's largest aquariums, focusing on the Pacific Ocean's ecosystems. Don't miss the giant whale shark tank.

Explore one of the world's largest aquariums, focusing on the Pacific Ocean's ecosystems. Don't miss the giant whale shark tank.

Walk along the canal to see the iconic Glico Running Man sign and experience the dazzling lights and vibrant atmosphere of Osaka's entertainment hub.

Walk along the canal to see the iconic Glico Running Man sign and experience the dazzling lights and vibrant atmosphere of Osaka's entertainment hub.
~2 hours
Wander through this atmospheric, lantern-lit alleyway, visit the moss-covered Mizukake Fudo statue, and explore the traditional restaurants and shops.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find a street vendor in Dotonbori grilling fresh Takoyaki, a savory octopus pancake, and enjoy this classic Osaka street food.
Takoyaki
Head to a restaurant in the Namba or Dotonbori area to try Okonomiyaki, a customizable savory pancake with various fillings.
OkonomiyakiNamba is the heart of Osaka's vibrant nightlife and entertainment, making it a perfect base for exploring Dotonbori and Hozenji Yokocho.
Namba is the heart of Osaka's vibrant nightlife and entertainment, making it a perfect base for exploring Dotonbori and Hozenji Yokocho.
Book your Shinkansen tickets in advance to ensure reserved seating from Shin Osaka Station to Tokyo Station.
~3 hours
Utilize the Shinkansen bullet train for efficient and scenic travel between cities. Book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Book tickets online in advance to secure your entry time. Wear comfortable clothing you don't mind getting wet, as some exhibits involve water.

Book tickets online in advance to secure your entry time. Wear comfortable clothing you don't mind getting wet, as some exhibits involve water.

The museum is located on the 53rd floor of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower. Enjoy panoramic city views, especially stunning at sunset.

The museum is located on the 53rd floor of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower. Enjoy panoramic city views, especially stunning at sunset.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find a bustling ramen shop in the Shibuya or Shinjuku area. Try a rich Tonkotsu (pork bone broth) ramen for a classic Tokyo experience.
Ramen
Seek out a reputable sushi restaurant in Ginza for a more upscale experience or a standing sushi bar for a quicker, more affordable option. Order a selection of nigiri or a sushi set.
SushiRoppongi is convenient for accessing museums and has excellent nightlife and dining options.
Roppongi is convenient for accessing museums and has excellent nightlife and dining options.
Book your Shinkansen tickets in advance for your journey to Osaka. Last-minute tickets can be difficult to obtain, especially for popular travel times.

Book tickets well in advance as they sell out quickly. Arrive early to maximize your visit to this whimsical museum dedicated to Studio Ghibli's animated films.

Book tickets well in advance as they sell out quickly. Arrive early to maximize your visit to this whimsical museum dedicated to Studio Ghibli's animated films.

Explore the charming shops and cafes in Kichijoji, then enjoy a relaxing stroll or boat ride in the scenic Inokashira Park.

Explore the charming shops and cafes in Kichijoji, then enjoy a relaxing stroll or boat ride in the scenic Inokashira Park.

Wander through Shimokitazawa's narrow streets, filled with vintage clothing stores, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes. Look for unique fashion finds and enjoy the bohemian atmosphere.

Wander through Shimokitazawa's narrow streets, filled with vintage clothing stores, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes. Look for unique fashion finds and enjoy the bohemian atmosphere.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find a local bakery or sweet shop and try Dorayaki, a popular Japanese pancake like snack filled with red bean paste.
Dorayaki
In Shimokitazawa, look for a restaurant specializing in Okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake dish cooked on a griddle, customizable with various ingredients.
OkonomiyakiShinjuku offers a wide range of hotels and is a major transportation hub, making it convenient for exploring different parts of Tokyo.
Shinjuku offers a wide range of hotels and is a major transportation hub, making it convenient for exploring different parts of Tokyo.
Book your Shinkansen tickets in advance for your journey from Tokyo to Kyoto on Day 14. Various train companies operate this route, so compare options for the best price and schedule.

Visit the Imperial Palace East Garden, the former site of Edo Castle. Explore the grounds and learn about Japan's imperial history.

Visit the Imperial Palace East Garden, the former site of Edo Castle. Explore the grounds and learn about Japan's imperial history.

Wander through one of Tokyo's oldest and most beautiful traditional Japanese gardens. Admire the diverse landscapes and seasonal flowers.

Wander through one of Tokyo's oldest and most beautiful traditional Japanese gardens. Admire the diverse landscapes and seasonal flowers.
~3 hours
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Akihabara. Explore multi-story electronics stores, anime shops, and arcades. Consider visiting a themed cafe.
~2 hours
Enjoy a final celebratory meal in Tokyo. Consider exploring the diverse culinary scene in areas like Shinjuku or Ginza for a memorable experience.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find a popular ramen shop in Akihabara and savor a rich, flavorful bowl of ramen, a classic Japanese noodle soup.
Ramen
For your farewell dinner, seek out a mid-range sushi restaurant and indulge in fresh, expertly prepared sushi and sashimi. This is a quintessential Japanese culinary experience.
SushiThis area offers convenient access to the day's activities and a wide range of dining and entertainment options.
This area offers convenient access to the day's activities and a wide range of dining and entertainment options.
Get your trip plan as a PDF with maps and a CSV spreadsheet.
Daily total includes accommodation, food, transport, and activities. All amounts are in USD per person. Trip total is for 14 days.
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