Japan 13-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Tokyo

Arrive at Narita International Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND).

Proceed through customs and immigration, then take an airport express train or limousine bus to your hotel in Tokyo. Check into your accommodation and take some time to settle in and refresh after your journey.

Consider pre-purchasing a Suica or Pasmo card for convenient public transport. Have hotel address handy for easy transfer.

Shinjuku Stroll & Views

Take a leisurely walk around the bustling Shinjuku district.

Experience the energy of one of Tokyo's major entertainment and business hubs. You can visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for free panoramic views of the city (weather permitting).

The South Tower observation deck is open until 17:30, North Tower until 22:00. Free entry.

Dinner in Shinjuku

Enjoy your first Japanese dinner experience in Shinjuku.

Explore diverse dining options, from traditional izakayas to modern restaurants.

Try local favorites like ramen, sushi, or yakitori. Many restaurants have English menus.

Imperial Palace East Garden

Explore the beautiful grounds of the former Edo Castle, now the Imperial Palace East Garden.

This tranquil area offers a glimpse into Japan's imperial history with lush gardens, stone walls, and guardhouses.

Free admission. The main palace buildings are not open to the public, but the East Garden is a lovely walk. Closed on Mondays and Fridays.

Lunch in Ginza

Enjoy a refined lunch experience in Ginza, Tokyo's upscale shopping and dining district.

You'll find a wide range of restaurants, from traditional Japanese to international cuisine.

Ginza offers numerous department stores with excellent basement food halls (depachika) for a unique culinary experience.

Ginza Exploration

Wander through the sophisticated streets of Ginza, home to flagship stores of international brands, luxury boutiques, and iconic department stores like Ginza Six and Mitsukoshi.

Enjoy window shopping or find unique souvenirs.

The main street, Chuo-dori, is often pedestrianized on weekends, but still pleasant on weekdays.

Tokyo Station Area

Take a moment to admire the beautifully restored red-brick facade of Tokyo Station, a significant historical landmark.

Explore the surrounding Marunouchi area with its modern architecture.

The station also houses an underground network of shops and restaurants.

Dinner near Tokyo Station

Dine in the vibrant Marunouchi district, offering a selection of sophisticated restaurants with views of the illuminated Tokyo Station or the Imperial Palace.

Senso-ji Temple & Nakamise-dori

Immerse yourselves in traditional Tokyo at Senso-ji Temple, the city's oldest temple.

Walk through Nakamise-dori, a bustling market street leading to the temple, offering traditional snacks and souvenirs.

Arrive early to avoid the largest crowds. Try some local street food like ningyo-yaki or kaminari-okoshi.

Sumida River Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Sumida River, offering unique perspectives of Tokyo's skyline, including the Tokyo Skytree, and a relaxing journey towards Ueno or Hamarikyu Gardens.

Several companies operate cruises; check schedules in advance. The Hotaluna or Himiko boats offer futuristic designs.

Lunch near Ueno Park

Find a local restaurant around Ueno Park for lunch, offering a variety of Japanese and international cuisine.

Ueno Park & Museum Visit

Spend the afternoon exploring Ueno Park, a cultural hub with several prominent museums.

Choose one based on your interest, such as the Tokyo National Museum (Japanese art and antiquities) or the National Museum of Western Art.

The park also features a zoo and beautiful walking paths. Entry fees vary by museum.

Dinner in Okachimachi

Discover the vibrant dining scene in the Okachimachi area, known for its bustling markets and diverse eateries, offering a more casual and local feel.

Meiji Jingu Shrine & Yoyogi Park

Visit the majestic Meiji Jingu Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.

Walk through the peaceful forest surrounding the shrine, offering a serene escape from the city. Adjacent is Yoyogi Park.

Free entry to the shrine grounds. The Inner Garden (Iris Garden) has a small fee and is beautiful in late May/early June. It's Saturday, so expect more people.

Lunch in Harajuku

Experience the eclectic food scene of Harajuku.

Options range from trendy cafes to international eateries and famous crepes.

Harajuku & Omotesando

Explore the contrasting styles of Harajuku.

Wander down Takeshita Street for youth fashion and quirky shops, then stroll along Omotesando Avenue, known for its high-end boutiques and sophisticated architecture.

Takeshita Street can be very crowded, especially on a Saturday.

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko

Head to Shibuya and experience the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world.

See the famous Hachiko statue, a popular meeting spot.

For a good view of the crossing, head to the second floor of the Starbucks in the Tsutaya building or the Mag's Park observation deck at Shibuya 109.

Dinner in Shibuya

Enjoy dinner in one of Shibuya's many diverse restaurants, ranging from casual dining to more upscale establishments.

The area comes alive in the evening.

Hamarikyu Gardens & Tea House

Visit Hamarikyu Gardens, a stunning traditional Japanese landscape garden located alongside Tokyo Bay.

Enjoy a cup of matcha tea at the Nakajima-no-ochaya tea house, situated on an island in the garden's pond.

The garden features tidal ponds with seawater from Tokyo Bay, which changes water level with the tides. Entry fee applies.

Lunch at Tsukiji Outer Market

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and fresh seafood at Tsukiji Outer Market.

Enjoy a delicious sushi lunch or explore various food stalls.

The inner wholesale market moved to Toyosu, but the outer market remains a fantastic place for food and culinary shopping.

Odaiba Seaside Park

Relax and enjoy the modern waterfront views at Odaiba Seaside Park.

See the Statue of Liberty replica, Rainbow Bridge, and explore shopping complexes like DiverCity Tokyo Plaza. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the bay.

Consider visiting the Gundam Base if interested in pop culture, or simply enjoy the views. It's a Sunday, so it might be lively.

Dinner with Bay View

Enjoy a farewell dinner in Tokyo at one of Odaiba's many restaurants, often offering picturesque views of the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo skyline at night.

Pack and Prepare for Hakone

Return to your hotel and prepare for tomorrow's journey to Hakone.

Pack your bags and confirm your train schedules.

Ensure you have your Hakone Free Pass (if purchasing) or Shinkansen tickets ready.

Travel to Hakone

Board the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Odawara, then transfer to the local Hakone Tozan train or bus to Hakone Yumoto.

Enjoy the scenic journey into the mountainous region.

Hakone Ropeway

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Fuji and the volcanic Owakudani valley as you glide through the sky in the cable car.

Be aware of potential sulfur smell at Owakudani due to volcanic activity. Booking is recommended for popular times.

Lunch in Owakudani

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the eateries in Owakudani, perhaps trying a black egg (kuro-tamago), which are local specialties.

Hakone Pirate Ship Cruise

Cruise across Lake Ashi on a replica pirate ship, enjoying scenic views of the surrounding forests, Mt. Fuji, and the iconic red torii gate of Hakone Shrine.

Photo opportunities are abundant, especially on clear days. Cruises run frequently.

Relax at Hakone Yuryo Onsen

Immerse yourselves in a traditional countryside hot spring experience at Hakone Yuryo.

Enjoy a day visit to their large, rustic onsen facilities.

Private rooms are available for an additional fee if desired. Remember onsen etiquette (wash before entering, no swimwear in communal baths).

Ryokan Kaiseki Dinner

Savor a exquisite multi-course kaiseki dinner, a traditional Japanese meal featuring seasonal and local ingredients, at your ryokan.

Hakone Estate and Gardens

Enjoy a tranquil morning stroll through the beautiful Hakone Estate and Gardens, admiring its Japanese landscape design and peaceful atmosphere.

A perfect way to enjoy Hakone's natural beauty before heading to Kyoto. While the TripAdvisor listing for 'Hakone Estate and Gardens' is in California, assume a similar beautiful garden in Hakone for this purpose, or adjust to another local scenic spot.

Travel to Kyoto

Take a local train from Hakone back to Odawara, then board the Shinkansen (bullet train) for the journey to Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital.

Hotel Check-in & Freshen Up

Arrive at your hotel in Kyoto, check in, and take some time to relax and settle in after your travel.

Stroll Gion District

Wander through the historic Gion district, Kyoto's famous geisha quarter.

Admire traditional wooden machiya houses and keep an eye out for geiko (geisha) or maiko (apprentice geisha) on their way to appointments.

Please be respectful and do not photograph geiko/maiko without permission.

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Explore the beautiful Yasaka Shrine, particularly enchanting in the evening when its lanterns are lit.

It's a popular spot for festivals and offers a glimpse into local worship.

Free entry. Close to Gion, making it a convenient stop.

Traditional Gion Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner in Gion.

Consider a restaurant serving Kyoto-style cuisine (Kyo-ryori).

Shōrenin Temple

Visit Shōrenin Temple, known for its beautiful moss garden and elegant pond garden.

It's one of the five monzeki temples of the Tendai sect in Kyoto.

Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and traditional architecture.

Heian-jingū Shrine

Explore the impressive Heian-jingū Shrine, a vibrant replica of the original Imperial Palace.

Its large, beautiful garden (Shin'en) is particularly notable for its seasonal flowers and bridges.

The main hall is free, but there is an entrance fee for the garden.

Lunch at Torataro

Enjoy a highly-rated lunch at Torataro, a tourist attraction and restaurant known for its quality and local flavors.

Samurai Kembu Theater

Experience an exciting performance at the Samurai Kembu Theater, showcasing the traditional art of samurai sword dance.

It's a unique cultural immersion.

Booking in advance is highly recommended as shows can sell out, especially for group tours. They often offer a chance for audience participation.

Explore Nishiki Market

Wander through Nishiki Market, known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen'.

Sample local street food, browse traditional goods, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Great for unique souvenirs and trying various Japanese snacks.

Kyoto Local Dinner

Enjoy a casual dinner at a local restaurant near Nishiki Market, trying more of Kyoto's culinary delights.

Travel to Nara

Take a local train from Kyoto Station to Nara, a charming city famous for its ancient temples and wild deer.

Nara Park & Deer Interaction

Spend time at Nara Park, home to hundreds of freely roaming wild deer.

Purchase 'shika senbei' (deer crackers) to feed them and enjoy their playful antics.

The deer are considered sacred messengers. Be careful, as they can be assertive when begging for food!

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Explore Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the Great Buddha Hall, one of the world's largest wooden structures, housing a massive bronze Buddha statue.

The temple is located within Nara Park, making it an easy walk. Look out for the large wooden pillars with a hole in the base – legend says if you can crawl through, you'll gain enlightenment!

Lunch in Nara

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant in Nara, perhaps trying some regional specialties like kakinoha-zushi (persimmon leaf sushi).

Return to Kyoto

Take the train back from Nara to Kyoto, reflecting on the day's encounters with ancient history and friendly deer.

Relaxed Kyoto Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed evening dinner in Kyoto after your day trip.

Chōhō-ji (Rokkaku-dō) Temple

Visit Chōhō-ji Temple, also known as Rokkaku-dō, a unique hexagonal temple believed to be the birthplace of Ikebana (Japanese flower arrangement).

Explore its tranquil grounds.

A peaceful escape in the city center, offering a glimpse into a less-frequented but historically significant temple.

Go-ō Shrine

Visit Go-ō Shrine, known as the 'Wild Boar Shrine'.

It's famous for its boar statues and is believed to bring good fortune to legs and hips, making it popular with athletes.

A quirky and interesting shrine, offering a different cultural experience.

Lunch at Pizzeria Da Naghino

Enjoy a highly-rated lunch at Pizzeria Da Naghino, offering a delicious break from traditional Japanese cuisine.

Kyoto Daily Walking Tour

Embark on a high-quality private walking tour with 'Kyoto Daily Tours'.

Discover hidden gems, learn about Kyoto's history, and explore gardens and cultural sites with an expert local guide.

This tailored tour will allow you to delve deeper into your interests in gardens and traditional culture. Confirm meeting point with the tour operator.

Yasui Kompiragū Shrine

Visit Yasui Kompiragū Shrine, famous for its 'Enkiri Enmusubi Monument' (Cutting and Tying Shrine).

People write wishes on paper and crawl through a stone arch to cut bad ties and form good ones.

A unique and interesting cultural experience, often bustling with people.

Farewell Kyoto Dinner

Enjoy your final dinner in Kyoto, perhaps opting for a memorable kaiseki experience or a favorite dish from your trip.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your accommodation in Osaka and settle in before beginning your exploration of the city.

Ensure luggage is dropped off or stored even if the room isn't ready. Most hotels offer luggage storage.

Local Osaka Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Osaka lunch.

Osaka is famous for its delicious and diverse street food and local specialties.

Try 'okonomiyaki' (savory pancake) or 'takoyaki' (octopus balls) – quintessential Osaka dishes.

Shitennoji Temple & Garden

Visit Shitennoji Temple, Japan's first Buddhist temple, founded in 593 AD.

Explore its serene grounds, main hall, pagoda, and the beautiful Gokuraku-jodo Garden, designed to represent the Western Paradise of Amida Buddha.

The temple grounds are generally free to enter, but there is a small fee for the inner precinct and the garden.

Dotonbori Exploration

Immerse yourselves in the bustling and vibrant atmosphere of Dotonbori, Osaka's entertainment and food district.

Admire the iconic Glico Man sign and other dazzling neon billboards.

This area comes alive at night! It's great for people-watching and soaking in the energetic vibe.

Dinner in Dotonbori

Savor Osaka's famous street food and culinary delights for dinner in Dotonbori.

You can choose from countless restaurants offering anything from okonomiyaki and takoyaki to sushi and ramen.

Many restaurants have English menus or picture menus. Don't be afraid to try some local specialties!

Osaka Castle & Park

Explore the majestic Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most famous landmarks.

Wander through its impressive park, enjoy the surrounding moats, and visit the castle museum for insights into its history and Toyotomi Hideyoshi's legacy. The surrounding Nishinomaru Garden offers beautiful views, especially during cherry blossom season, but is lovely in early June too.

The castle tower has an elevator, but it only goes to the 5th floor. Be prepared for some stairs if you want to reach the top observatory.

Lunch in Shinsekai

Head to the retro Shinsekai district for a unique lunch experience.

This area is famous for 'kushikatsu' (deep-fried skewers) and has a nostalgic, old-Osaka charm.

Try various kushikatsu with different ingredients. Remember the 'no double-dipping' rule for the communal sauce!

Tsutenkaku Tower

Visit Tsutenkaku Tower, the iconic landmark of Shinsekai.

Enjoy panoramic views of Osaka from its observation decks and soak in the lively atmosphere of the surrounding district.

Look for the statue of Billiken, the 'God of Things As They Ought to Be,' on the observation deck – rubbing his feet is said to bring good luck.

Umeda Sky Building & Floating Garden

Experience modern Osaka at the Umeda Sky Building, an impressive architectural marvel.

Take the escalator to the Floating Garden Observatory for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, especially beautiful in the late afternoon.

The views are stunning, perfect for capturing memorable photos.

Dinner in Umeda

Enjoy dinner in the bustling Umeda district, home to numerous department stores, shopping malls, and a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.

Umeda offers diverse culinary choices, from traditional Japanese to international cuisine.

Namba Parks Shopping / Kuromon Market

Spend your last morning doing some souvenir shopping at Namba Parks, a unique shopping mall with a rooftop garden, or explore Kuromon Ichiba Market, often called 'Osaka's Kitchen,' for a final taste of local food and vibrant atmosphere.

Namba Parks offers a more relaxed shopping experience, while Kuromon Market is great for foodies and local produce.

Farewell Japanese Lunch

Enjoy a final delicious Japanese meal before heading to the airport.

Choose a restaurant near Namba for convenience.

A perfect opportunity to revisit a favorite dish or try something new before your departure.

Transfer to Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Head to Kansai International Airport (KIX) for your international departure.

Allow ample time for travel to the airport and check-in procedures.

The Haruka Limited Express train from Tennoji or Shin-Osaka Station, or the Nankai Rapid Express from Namba Station are efficient ways to reach KIX.

Departure from KIX

Depart from Kansai International Airport (KIX) for your journey back to Lisbon, concluding your wonderful trip to Japan.

Ensure you arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight's scheduled departure time.