Japan 18-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Seoul

Arrive at Incheon International Airport (ICN), transfer to your accommodation, and settle in.

Take some time to relax after your flight.

Seoul boasts an efficient public transport system. Consider purchasing a T-Money card for easy travel.

Myeongdong Evening Stroll

Explore the vibrant Myeongdong district, famous for its shopping, street food, and lively atmosphere.

It's a great place to get a first taste of Seoul's energy.

Try some popular Korean street foods like Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) or Gyeranppang (egg bread).

Dinner in Myeongdong

Enjoy a traditional Korean dinner at one of Myeongdong's many restaurants.

Options range from BBQ to Ginseng Chicken Soup.

Gwanghwamun Square

Begin your day at Gwanghwamun Square, a grand public space connecting Gyeongbokgung Palace with the city.

Witness the changing of the guard ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace if timed correctly (check schedules).

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty, featuring impressive architecture and grounds.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Wander through the traditional Korean houses (Hanok) of Bukchon Hanok Village, offering a glimpse into Seoul's past.

Be respectful of residents as it is a living neighborhood. Great photo opportunities here.

Insadong Tea & Souvenirs

Explore Insadong Street, known for its traditional tea houses, art galleries, and souvenir shops.

Enjoy a traditional Korean tea break.

Try a traditional Korean herbal tea and look for unique handicrafts.

Dinner in Hongdae

Experience the youthful energy of Hongdae, a district known for its indie music, street art, and diverse dining options.

Enjoy a casual dinner.

Departure from Seoul

Enjoy a final Korean breakfast, then make your way to Incheon International Airport (ICN) for your flight to Osaka (KIX).

Travel to Kyoto

Arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX).

Take the Haruka Limited Express train directly from KIX to Kyoto Station.

Check-in to Kyoto Hotel

Check into your Western-style hotel in Kyoto, ideally within walking distance of public transport.

Settle into your room and freshen up.

The Comfort Hotel Kyoto Horikawa Gojo is a great choice, offering easy access to bus stops and subway stations.

Dinner near Kyoto Station

Enjoy your first dinner in Japan near Kyoto Station, which offers a vast selection of restaurants from casual eateries to fine dining.

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that wind through the sacred forest of Mount Inari.

Start early to avoid crowds. Wear comfortable shoes as it's a walk uphill. The shrine is always open and free to enter.

Lunch near Gion

Head towards the Gion district and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Options include traditional Kyoto cuisine or casual fare.

Gion District Exploration

Explore Gion, Kyoto's most famous geisha district.

Wander through its traditional wooden machiya houses, quaint tea houses, and learn about the geisha culture.

Keep an eye out for geiko (Kyoto geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) in the early evening, but be respectful and do not photograph without permission.

Yasaka Shrine

Visit Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrine.

It's especially beautiful in the late afternoon as lanterns begin to light up.

Dinner in Pontocho Alley

Enjoy dinner at one of the atmospheric restaurants along Pontocho Alley, a narrow pedestrian street lined with traditional establishments, many offering riverside views.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Head to the scenic Arashiyama district.

Start with a serene walk through the iconic towering bamboo grove, one of Kyoto's most famous sights.

Take an early bus or train to Arashiyama to beat the crowds. The grove itself is free to enter.

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto's most important Zen temples, known for its beautiful landscape garden.

Lunch in Arashiyama

Enjoy lunch in the Arashiyama area.

There are many restaurants and cafes offering various Japanese dishes.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Travel to Kinkaku-ji, the stunning Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. Its reflection in the pond is breathtaking.

Kinkaku-ji is open daily. Take a bus from Arashiyama or central Kyoto.

Dinner in Central Kyoto

Conclude your day with dinner in a central Kyoto neighborhood, perhaps exploring options around Kawaramachi or Nishiki Market.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the stunning Rokuon-ji temple, famously known as the Golden Pavilion, a Zen Buddhist temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.

Its reflection in the pond is breathtaking.

Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Easily accessible by bus.

Ryoan-ji Temple & Garden

Explore Ryoan-ji, a Zen temple famous for its mysterious rock garden (karesansui).

The garden's design with 15 carefully placed rocks is intended to promote contemplation.

Take your time to observe the rock garden from different angles. It's a short walk or bus ride from Kinkaku-ji.

Lunch in Central Kyoto

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at a local restaurant in central Kyoto, perhaps trying some regional specialties.

Nishiki Market Exploration

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Nishiki Market, known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen.

' Sample local delicacies, browse traditional crafts, and soak in the vibrant energy.

Come hungry! Many vendors offer free samples. It's a fantastic spot for photography and souvenirs. Rating: 4.3/5.

Dinner in Kyoto

Savor dinner at a highly-rated restaurant in Kyoto, perhaps trying 'Torataro' for its tourist_attraction and restaurant type, offering a blend of experience and good food.

Rating: 4.7/5. Make a reservation if you prefer, especially for popular places.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the iconic towering bamboo stalks of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

It's one of Kyoto's most photographed sights, offering a serene and majestic experience.

Arrive early for the best light and fewer crowds. Public transport (train or bus) is the easiest way to get to Arashiyama.

Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto's five great Zen temples.

Its beautiful landscape garden (Sogenchi Teien) is considered one of Japan's finest.

Located right next to the bamboo grove, making it convenient to combine with your visit.

Lunch in Arashiyama

Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants or cafes in the picturesque Arashiyama area, offering views of the river or traditional Japanese settings.

Togetsukyo Bridge & River

Stroll across the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge (Moon Crossing Bridge) and enjoy the scenic views of the Hozugawa River and the surrounding mountains. You can also relax by the riverbanks.

Great spot for photography, especially with the changing seasons (though May will be lush green!).

Dinner at Pizzeria Da Naghino

Enjoy a casual and highly-rated dinner at Pizzeria Da Naghino, offering a different culinary experience in Kyoto.

It also lists as a tourist attraction.

Rating: 4.5/5. A good option if you're looking for something other than traditional Japanese cuisine.

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

Embark on a walk through the thousands of vermillion torii gates that wind up the sacred Mount Inari.

This shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice.

Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking. The full hike to the top takes about 2-3 hours, but even a partial walk is impressive.

Lunch near Fushimi Inari

Grab some street food or a casual meal from one of the many vendors and restaurants lining the approach to Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, famous for its inari sushi.

Yasaka Shrine & Higashiyama

Visit Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto's most famous shrines, known for its annual Gion Matsuri festival.

Afterwards, explore the charming, preserved streets of the Higashiyama District.

Rating: 4.4/5. Higashiyama is perfect for photography, with traditional wooden buildings, shops, and cafes.

Gion Evening Stroll & Dinner

Experience the traditional geisha district of Gion in the evening.

Stroll through Hanami-koji Street and look out for geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) on their way to engagements. Enjoy dinner in the atmospheric district.

Be respectful if you encounter geisha, avoid flash photography and do not block their path.

Travel to Osaka

Take a short train ride from Kyoto to Osaka, arriving at a central station like Osaka Station (Umeda) or Shin-Osaka.

The JR Special Rapid Service is fast and efficient.

Osaka Castle

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

Wander through its impressive grounds and museum, learning about its rich history.

The castle tower offers panoramic views of the city. There is an admission fee for the museum inside.

Lunch in Osaka

Enjoy a classic Osaka lunch, perhaps trying local specialties like Okonomiyaki (savory pancake) or Takoyaki (octopus balls) near Osaka Castle or on your way to Dotonbori.

Dotonbori & Shinsaibashi

Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Dotonbori, famous for its neon lights, massive signs (like the Glico Man), and incredible street food.

Explore the Shinsaibashi shopping arcade nearby.

This is a fantastic place for photography, eating, and people-watching. Try some local street snacks!

Dinner in Dotonbori

Have dinner in the lively Dotonbori area, selecting from a vast array of restaurants, from casual eateries to more upscale options.

Don't miss trying some of Osaka's culinary delights.

Return to Kyoto

Take the train back to Kyoto after a full day of exploring Osaka.

Heian-jingū Shrine

Visit the majestic Heian-jingū Shrine, a vibrant and relatively new Shinto shrine with an impressive garden (Shinen Garden) behind the main hall.

Its bright orange torii gate is one of the largest in Japan.

Rating: 4.4/5. The garden entrance requires a separate fee but is highly recommended, especially in May.

Samurai Kembu Theater

Experience the traditional art of Kembu, a Japanese sword dance performance with roots in samurai culture.

This unique show provides insight into the samurai spirit and martial arts.

Rating: 4.6/5. This is a cultural activity that often includes an opportunity to try on samurai attire or learn basic moves. Booking in advance is recommended.

Lunch in Kyoto

Enjoy a final Kyoto lunch, perhaps near your morning activities or closer to your hotel.

Free Time & Souvenir Shopping

Take some free time to explore Kyoto at your leisure, do some last-minute souvenir shopping, or revisit a favorite spot.

Consider browsing around Kyoto Station for unique gifts.

Department stores near Kyoto Station offer a wide range of goods, from food to fashion and traditional crafts.

Farewell Dinner in Kyoto

Enjoy a special farewell dinner in Kyoto, celebrating your time in the city before heading to the Fuji region tomorrow.

Consider a restaurant that offers a traditional multi-course kaiseki meal if your budget allows for a splurge.

Travel to Fuji Region

Board a Shinkansen from Kyoto Station to Mishima Station, then transfer to a local bus for Kawaguchiko.

Enjoy scenic views as you approach Mount Fuji.

The journey offers glimpses of rural Japan before the majestic sight of Mount Fuji appears. Ensure you have your bus tickets or an IC card ready for the local bus.

Ryokan Check-in & Lunch

Check into your traditional Japanese ryokan near Lake Kawaguchiko.

Settle in and enjoy a local lunch at a nearby restaurant or at the ryokan if available.

Onsen Hot Spring Experience

Relax and rejuvenate in the ryokan's traditional Japanese hot spring (onsen).

Many ryokans in this area offer outdoor baths with views of Mount Fuji.

Familiarize yourself with onsen etiquette (wash thoroughly before entering, no swimwear, tattoos may need to be covered).

Traditional Kaiseki Dinner

Savor a multi-course traditional Japanese kaiseki dinner, often served in your room or a private dining area, featuring local and seasonal ingredients.

Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

Ride the Kachi Kachi Yama Ropeway for breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchiko, and the surrounding landscape.

Lake Kawaguchiko Stroll & Boat Ride

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko, soaking in the serene atmosphere and beautiful views of Fuji.

Optionally, take a scenic boat cruise on the lake.

Boat rides are available near the ropeway station. Consider renting a pedal boat for a fun experience.

Lunch with Fuji Views

Dine at one of the many restaurants around Lake Kawaguchiko offering views of Mount Fuji, enjoying local specialties like Hoto noodles.

Oishi Park & Flower Center

Visit Oishi Park on the north shore of Lake Kawaguchiko, famous for its seasonal flowers and stunning, unobstructed views of Mount Fuji across the lake.

There's also a 'Flower Center' with local products.

Best reached by local bus or rental bicycle from Kawaguchiko Station. The bus loop is convenient.

Evening Onsen & Relaxation

Enjoy another relaxing session in the ryokan's onsen or simply unwind in your room before dinner.

Ryokan Dinner

Enjoy a delicious dinner provided by your ryokan, a perfect end to a day of sightseeing.

Chureito Pagoda Photo Spot

Visit the iconic Chureito Pagoda for one of the most famous views of Mount Fuji, especially beautiful with the pagoda and cherry blossoms (seasonal, but still picturesque).

Requires climbing a fair number of stairs. Best visited early to avoid crowds, especially for photography. Accessible via Fujikyuko Line to Shimo-Yoshida Station.

Travel to Tokyo

Take a direct highway bus from Kawaguchiko Station to Shinjuku Bus Terminal in Tokyo, offering a comfortable and efficient journey.

Highway buses are a convenient and affordable way to travel between the Fuji region and Tokyo. Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season.

Hotel Check-in & Settle

Check into your Western-style hotel in Tokyo, preferably in a central and well-connected area like Shinjuku.

Explore Shinjuku & Dinner

Take a stroll around the vibrant Shinjuku area.

Explore the bustling streets, department stores, and perhaps grab an early dinner.

Shinjuku is a major entertainment and business district, known for its skyscrapers, shopping, and nightlife. The area around Shinjuku Station is a labyrinth of activity.

Imperial Palace East Garden

Visit the East Garden of the Imperial Palace, the former site of Edo Castle.

Enjoy the tranquil grounds, stone walls, and traditional Japanese landscaping.

The inner palace grounds are generally not open to the public, but the East Garden is a beautiful and free-to-enter area.

Ginza Shopping & Stroll

Explore Ginza, Tokyo's premier upscale shopping district.

Admire the high-end boutiques, department stores, and modern architecture.

Lunch in Ginza

Enjoy lunch in Ginza, offering a wide range of dining options from casual eateries to Michelin-starred restaurants.

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko

Experience the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world.

See the famous Hachiko statue and explore the surrounding fashion and entertainment hub.

Best viewed from the second story of Shibuya Tsutaya or Starbucks for a great photo opportunity. Visit the Hachiko statue near Shibuya Station's Hachiko Exit.

Dinner in Shibuya

Enjoy dinner in Shibuya, a vibrant area with countless dining choices, from casual izakayas to themed restaurants.

Asakusa: Senso-ji Temple & Nakamise-dori

Immerse yourself in traditional Tokyo by visiting Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple, and exploring Nakamise-dori, a bustling shopping street leading to the temple.

Try some traditional snacks or pick up souvenirs along Nakamise-dori. Access via Asakusa Station on the Ginza, Asakusa, or Tobu Skytree lines.

Lunch in Asakusa

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch in the Asakusa area, known for its local eateries.

Ueno Park Exploration

Spend the afternoon exploring Ueno Park, a large public park home to several museums (Tokyo National Museum, National Museum of Western Art), a zoo, and various shrines and temples.

Choose one or two attractions based on your interest, such as the Tokyo National Museum for art and artifacts, or just enjoy a stroll through the park.

Akihabara: Electric Town

Immerse yourselves in the vibrant world of Akihabara, Tokyo's 'Electric Town,' famous for its electronics shops, anime, manga, and gaming culture.

A unique cultural experience, even if you're not a hardcore fan. Don't miss the multi-story arcade centers.

Dinner in Akihabara

Enjoy dinner in Akihabara, with options ranging from themed cafes to delicious ramen and izakaya.

Shibuya Crossing Experience

Witness the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world.

Experience the controlled chaos and vibrant atmosphere.

For a great view, head to the Starbucks in the Tsutaya building or Shibuya Sky observation deck (booking required).

Visit Hachiko Statue

Pay respects to the loyal dog Hachiko, whose statue is a popular meeting point outside Shibuya Station.

Often crowded, but a quick photo is usually possible. Located near the Hachiko exit of Shibuya Station.

Lunch in Shibuya

Enjoy lunch at one of Shibuya's many restaurants, from ramen to sushi to international cuisine.

Harajuku & Takeshita Street

Explore the quirky and vibrant Takeshita Street, known for its unique fashion boutiques, crepe stands, and youth culture.

Weekends can be extremely crowded. Great for people-watching and trying Japanese street snacks.

Meiji Jingu Shrine

Find serenity amidst the bustling city at this peaceful Shinto shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.

Walk through the tranquil forest approach.

Open from sunrise to sunset. Entrance to the main shrine grounds is free. Located adjacent to Harajuku Station.

Dinner in Shinjuku

Dine in Shinjuku, offering a wide array of dining options from casual izakayas to upscale restaurants.

Travel to Kamakura

Take a train from Tokyo to Kamakura.

The Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station provides direct access.

Great Buddha of Kamakura (Daibutsu)

Visit Kotoku-in Temple to see the monumental outdoor bronze statue of Amitabha Buddha, an iconic symbol of Kamakura.

You can enter the interior of the Buddha for a small fee. From Kamakura Station, take the Enoden line to Hase Station.

Hasedera Temple

Explore the beautiful Hasedera Temple, known for its eleven-headed Kannon statue, lovely gardens, and panoramic views of the coast.

Located a short walk from the Great Buddha. Offers stunning views, especially in cherry blossom or autumn leaf seasons.

Lunch on Komachi-dori

Enjoy lunch on Komachi-dori Street, a lively shopping street leading to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, with many restaurants and souvenir shops.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Visit Kamakura's most important Shinto shrine, a grand complex with a long approach, ponds, and beautiful grounds.

The main approach from Kamakura Station is very picturesque. The shrine is free to enter, but some auxiliary museums may have fees.

Return to Tokyo

Take the train back to Tokyo from Kamakura after a full day of exploration.

Casual Tokyo Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed dinner in Tokyo, perhaps exploring a different neighborhood's local eateries.

Senso-ji Temple & Nakamise-dori

Visit Tokyo's oldest temple, Senso-ji, and explore the bustling Nakamise-dori market street leading up to it, perfect for souvenir shopping and local snacks.

Get there early to avoid the largest crowds. Try some traditional snacks like 'kaminari-okoshi' (rice crackers).

View Tokyo Skytree

Admire the impressive Tokyo Skytree, a broadcasting and observation tower, from below or consider going up for panoramic views (optional, time permitting).

The Skytree is visible from many points in Asakusa. If you plan to go up, book tickets in advance. This is an optional activity due to time constraints.

Traditional Asakusa Lunch

Enjoy a final authentic Japanese lunch in Asakusa, known for its traditional eateries.

Hotel Check-out & Luggage Collection

Return to your hotel, check out, and collect any stored luggage.

Ensure all personal belongings are packed.

Confirm late check-out options if needed, or utilize luggage storage at the hotel or a major train station locker.

Travel to Narita/Haneda Airport

Head to either Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) International Airport for your departure flight.

This usually involves a train or bus ride.

Depart Japan for Vienna

Check in for your international flight from Tokyo back to Vienna, Austria, concluding your incredible journey through Japan.

Arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled international flight departure.