Itinerary
Tokyo Itinerary
Overview
Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, blends futuristic skyscrapers, ancient temples, and a vibrant food scene. It’s the perfect starting point for this two week Japan travel itinerary.
How Long to Stay in Tokyo
3 days
How to Get to Tokyo
Fly into Narita International Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND). Take the Narita Express (~1 hour, ¥3,070) or Keikyu Line from Haneda (~30 minutes, ¥500).
Best Hotels to Stay in Tokyo
- Hostel: UNPLAN Shinjuku – Modern and social.
- Budget: Sakura Hotel Ikebukuro – Affordable and convenient.
- Boutique: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku – Iconic “Godzilla Hotel.”
What to Do in Tokyo
- Explore Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple (Free).
- Visit the Meiji Shrine and Harajuku (~¥500 for inner garden).
- Stroll through Shibuya and see the famous Shibuya Crossing (Free).
- Shop in Akihabara, Tokyo’s electronics and anime district (Free).
- Day trip to Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea (~¥8,200).
Where to Eat in Tokyo
- Ichiran Ramen ($, 4.7/5) – Individual ramen booths.
- Genki Sushi ($$, 4.6/5) – Conveyor belt sushi.
- Shima ($$$, 4.8/5) – High-end steakhouse.
Modes of Transport in Tokyo
Get a prepaid Suica/Pasmo card for trains and buses. Taxis are expensive but available.
Tokyo Digital Nomad Rating
5/5: Fast internet, excellent coworking spaces, and vibrant city life. Nomadlist Tokyo
Hakone Itinerary
Overview
Hakone is a serene mountain town known for its hot springs, stunning views of Mount Fuji, and traditional ryokans. A must-see on this two week Japan travel itinerary, it offers a peaceful escape from the city.
How Long to Stay in Hakone
1-2 days
How to Get from Tokyo to Hakone
Take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku Station (~1.5 hours, ~¥2,300).
Best Hotels to Stay in Hakone
- Hostel: Onsen Hostel K’s House Hakone – Affordable with hot spring access.
- Budget: Hakone Suimeisou – Ryokan-style onsen hotel.
- Boutique: Gora Kadan – Luxury ryokan with impeccable service.
What to Do in Hakone
- Relax in an onsen (~¥1,000-¥2,000).
- Take the Hakone Ropeway for views of Mount Fuji (~¥2,400 for a round trip).
- Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum (~¥1,600).
- Cruise on Lake Ashi (~¥1,000).
Where to Eat in Hakone
- Tamura Ginkatsutei ($$, 4.7/5) – Known for its crispy tofu cutlets.
- Itoh Dining by Nobu ($$$, 4.6/5) – Upscale Japanese-Western fusion.
- Yamazakura ($, 4.5/5) – Affordable and cozy spot for local soba noodles.
Modes of Transport in Hakone
Get the Hakone Free Pass for unlimited rides on local transport (~¥5,000 for 2 days).
Hakone Digital Nomad Rating
3.5/5: Peaceful surroundings but slower internet in ryokans.
Kyoto Itinerary
Overview
Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, is renowned for its well-preserved temples, traditional tea houses, and stunning gardens. A major highlight of this two week Japan travel itinerary, it offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich heritage and timeless beauty.
How Long to Stay in Kyoto
3 days
How to Get from Hakone to Kyoto
Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Odawara Station to Kyoto (~2.5 hours, ~¥12,000 with a Japan Rail Pass).
Best Hotels to Stay in Kyoto
- Hostel: Piece Hostel Sanjo – Central and modern.
- Budget: Sakura Terrace – Affordable with great amenities.
- Boutique: The Celestine Kyoto Gion – Luxury with traditional charm.
What to Do in Kyoto
- Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) (~¥500).
- Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine and its iconic torii gates (Free).
- Wander through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (Free).
- Take a walk in the Gion district for traditional tea houses and geisha sightings (Free).
- Stroll through the Philosopher’s Path during cherry blossom season (Free).
Where to Eat in Kyoto
- Nishiki Market ($, 4.6/5) – Street food and local specialties.
- Menbaka Fire Ramen ($$, 4.5/5) – Unique ramen experience.
- Hyotei ($$$, 4.8/5) – Michelin-starred kaiseki cuisine.
Modes of Transport in Kyoto
Buy a Kyoto City Bus Pass (~¥600/day) or rent a bicycle for scenic rides.
Kyoto Digital Nomad Rating
4.5/5: Good internet, coworking spaces, and a serene environment. Nomadlist Kyoto
Nara Itinerary
Overview
Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital, is famous for its ancient temples and friendly roaming deer. It’s an easy and rewarding day trip on this two week Japan travel itinerary.
How Long to Stay in Nara
1 day (day trip from Kyoto).
How to Get from Kyoto to Nara
Take the JR Yamatoji Line from Nara Station to Osaka Station (~45 minutes, covered by the Japan Rail Pass).
Best Hotels to Stay in Nara
If staying overnight:
- Hostel: Guesthouse Naramachi – Cozy and traditional.
- Budget: Comfort Hotel Nara – Simple and convenient.
- Boutique: Nara Hotel – Historic and elegant.
What to Do in Nara
- Visit Todai-ji Temple to see the Great Buddha (~¥600).
- Stroll through Nara Park and feed the deer (~¥200 for crackers).
- Explore Kasuga-taisha Shrine (~¥500).
- Walk along the historic streets of Naramachi (Free).
Where to Eat in Nara
- Nakatanidou ($, 4.7/5) – Famous for freshly pounded mochi.
- Edogawa Naramachi ($$, 4.6/5) – Known for unagi (eel).
- Shizuka ($$, 4.5/5) – Known for its local nabe hot pot.
Modes of Transport in Nara
Walking is sufficient for most attractions.
Nara Digital Nomad Rating
3.5/5: Good internet but limited coworking spaces; ideal for a peaceful work day.
Osaka Itinerary
Overview
Osaka, Japan’s culinary capital, is a vibrant city known for its lively atmosphere, delicious street food, and modern attractions. It’s a must-visit on this two week Japan travel itinerary.
How Long to Stay in Osaka
2 days
How to Get from Nara to Osaka
Take the JR Yamatoji Line from Nara Station to Osaka Station (~45 minutes, covered by the Japan Rail Pass).
Best Hotels to Stay in Osaka
- Hostel: Hostel Wasabi Osaka Bed with Library – Unique and budget-friendly.
- Budget: Hotel WBF Namba Motomachi – Affordable and central.
- Boutique: The St. Regis Osaka – Luxurious with exceptional service.
What to Do in Osaka
- Explore Osaka Castle and its gardens (~¥600).
- Visit Universal Studios Japan (~¥8,400).
- Stroll along Dotonbori for neon lights and street food (Free).
- See the city from the Umeda Sky Building (~¥1,500).
Where to Eat in Osaka
- Dotonbori Street Stalls ($, 4.8/5) – Takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
- Matsusakagyu Yakiniku ($$$, 4.9/5) – Premium wagyu beef.
- Chibo ($$, 4.7/5) – Famous for its Osaka-style okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).
Modes of Transport in Osaka
Get an Osaka Amazing Pass (~¥2,800/day) for unlimited travel and attraction discounts.
Osaka Digital Nomad Rating
4/5: Great internet, coworking spaces, and a dynamic city vibe. Nomadlist Osaka
Hiroshima Itinerary
Overview
Hiroshima, a city of resilience and peace, is known for its historical significance and serene beauty. A poignant stop on this two week Japan travel itinerary, it offers insights into Japan’s modern history and cultural spirit.
How Long to Stay in Hiroshima
1-2 days
How to Get from Osaka to Hiroshima
Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Shin-Osaka Station to Hiroshima (~1.5 hours, ~¥10,000 with a Japan Rail Pass).
Best Hotels to Stay in Hiroshima
- Hostel: Santiago Guesthouse Hiroshima – Budget-friendly and central.
- Budget: Nest Hotel Hiroshima Hatchobori – Modern and convenient.
- Boutique: Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima – Luxurious with city views.
What to Do in Hiroshima
- Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum (~¥200).
- See the Atomic Bomb Dome (Free).
- Take a walk to Shukkeien Garden (~¥260).
- Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at a local restaurant (~¥1,200).
Where to Eat in Hiroshima
- Nagata-ya ($$, 4.7/5) – Famous for Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.
- Okonomi-mura ($, 4.6/5) – Multiple stalls offering local delicacies.
- Mitchan Sohonten ($$, 4.8/5) – Another local favorite for authentic okonomiyaki.
Modes of Transport in Hiroshima
Hiroden (Hiroshima streetcars) are affordable and convenient for getting around (~¥190/ride).
Hiroshima Digital Nomad Rating
4/5: Good internet, peaceful atmosphere, and cultural inspiration. Nomadlist Hiroshima
Miyajima Island Itinerary
Overview
Miyajima Island, known for its iconic “floating” Torii gate and tranquil setting, is a scenic and spiritual destination on this two week Japan travel itinerary.
How Long to Stay on Miyajima Island
1 day (day trip from Hiroshima) or overnight.
How to Get from Hiroshima to Miyajima Island
Take the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station (~30 minutes), then the JR ferry to the island (~10 minutes). Both are covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
Best Hotels to Stay on Miyajima Island
- Hostel: Miyajima Guest House Mikuniya – Budget-friendly with traditional vibes.
- Budget: Ryoso Kawaguchi – Simple ryokan accommodation.
- Boutique: Iwase – Luxury ryokan with hot springs.
What to Do on Miyajima Island
- Visit Itsukushima Shrine and the famous Torii gate (~¥300).
- Hike or take the ropeway up Mount Misen (~¥1,800 for ropeway round trip).
- Explore Daisho-in Temple (Free).
- Stroll through the quaint Omotesando shopping street (Free to explore).
Where to Eat on Miyajima Island
- Kakiya ($$, 4.7/5) – Fresh local oysters.
- Momijido ($, 4.6/5) – Maple leaf-shaped cakes.
- Yakigaki-no-Hayashi ($$, 4.6/5) – Fresh seafood in a traditional Japanese setting.
Modes of Transport on Miyajima Island
Walking is the best way to explore the island.
Miyajima Digital Nomad Rating
3.5/5: Peaceful environment but limited internet access.
Takayama Itinerary
Overview
Takayama, a charming mountain town in the Japanese Alps, is known for its beautifully preserved Edo-period streets and local traditions. A highlight of this two week Japan travel itinerary, it offers a peaceful and cultural retreat.
How Long to Stay in Takayama
1-2 days
How to Get from Miyajima/Hiroshima to Takayama
Take the Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Nagoya (~2.5 hours), then transfer to the Hida Limited Express to Takayama (~2.5 hours). Both are covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
Best Hotels to Stay in Takayama
- Hostel: K’s House Takayama – Affordable and cozy.
- Budget: Country Hotel Takayama – Conveniently located near the station.
- Boutique: Hida Hotel Plaza – Comfortable stay with onsen facilities.
What to Do in Takayama
- Explore the Old Town (Sanmachi Suji) for traditional wooden houses (Free).
- Visit the Takayama Jinya, a historic government building (~¥440).
- Stroll through the Miyagawa Morning Market (Free).
- Sample Hida beef at a local restaurant (~¥2,500+ for a meal).
- Take a side trip to the Hida Folk Village (~¥700).
Where to Eat in Takayama
- Center4 Hamburgers ($$, 4.6/5) – Local beef burgers.
- Suzuya ($$, 4.7/5) – Traditional Hida beef dishes.
- Ajikura Tengoku ($$$, 4.8/5) – Upscale yakiniku restaurant with premium local meats.
Modes of Transport in Takayama
Walking is ideal; bikes are available for rent.
Takayama Digital Nomad Rating
3.5/5: Decent internet in accommodations; tranquil environment.
Kanazawa Itinerary
Overview
Kanazawa, often called “Little Kyoto,” is famous for its samurai districts, geisha culture, and stunning Kenrokuen Garden. A cultural gem on this two week Japan travel itinerary, it showcases traditional Japanese beauty.
How Long to Stay in Kanazawa
1-2 days
How to Get from Takayama to Kanazawa
Take the Nohi Bus from Takayama Bus Terminal to Kanazawa Station (~2.5 hours, ~¥3,500).
Best Hotels to Stay in Kanazawa
- Hostel: The Share Hotels Kumu Kanazawa – Stylish and budget-friendly.
- Budget: Hotel MyStays Kanazawa Castle – Affordable and well-located.
- Boutique: Kanazawa Hakuchoro Hotel Sanraku – Luxury with traditional touches.
What to Do in Kanazawa
- Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens (~¥320).
- Explore the Nagamachi Samurai District (Free to walk, museums ~¥300).
- Stroll through the Higashi Chaya Geisha District (Free).
- Tour Kanazawa Castle (~¥310).
- Discover contemporary art at the 21st Century Museum (~¥1,200).
Where to Eat in Kanazawa
- Mori Mori Sushi ($$, 4.7/5) – Conveyor belt sushi.
- Otomezushi ($$$, 4.8/5) – Traditional sushi experience.
- Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Cafe ($, 4.6/5) – A Western-style cafe with great coffee and sandwiches.
Modes of Transport in Kanazawa
Use the Kanazawa Loop Bus (~¥500/day pass) to get around.
Kanazawa Digital Nomad Rating
4/5: Good internet and coworking spaces; peaceful atmosphere.
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