Tokyo 18-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive at Narita Airport (NRT)

After a long flight from Barcelona, arrive at Tokyo Narita International Airport.

Clear customs and immigration.

Follow signs for 'JR Narita Express (N'EX)' or 'Keisei Skyliner' for convenient transfer to central Tokyo. Purchase your ticket at the airport.

Hotel Check-in & Rest

Check into your hotel, karaksa hotel premier Tokyo Ginza, and take some time to refresh after your journey.

Most hotels allow early check-in if rooms are available, otherwise, you can usually leave your luggage.

Ginza Shopping & Art

Explore Ginza, Tokyo's premier shopping district.

Admire the upscale department stores, art galleries, and modern architecture. Visit the Ginza Six shopping complex for its unique design and rooftop garden.

Enjoy window shopping or visit UNIQLO Ginza, one of the largest UNIQLO stores in the world. Ginza is beautiful in the evening as well.

Dinner in Ginza

Savor a delicious dinner in Ginza, known for its wide array of dining options, from traditional Japanese to international cuisine.

Consider trying a traditional sushi restaurant or a tempura specialty shop. Reservations might be needed for popular spots.

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko

Experience the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing, the busiest intersection in the world.

See the iconic Hachiko statue.

For a great view of the crossing, head to the Starbucks on the second floor of the Tsutaya building.

Shibuya Shopping & Culture

Explore Shibuya's vibrant shopping streets, fashion boutiques, and cafes.

Visit Shibuya 109 for trendy Japanese fashion.

Harajuku & Takeshita Street

Dive into the quirky fashion and youth culture of Harajuku.

Walk down Takeshita Street for unique shops, crepes, and street style.

Nearby Meiji Jingu Shrine offers a peaceful contrast to Harajuku's bustle, if you wish to add it.

Private E-Bike Tour Tokyo

Embark on a private e-bike tour, starting and ending at your hotel, to discover Tokyo's hidden gems and vibrant neighborhoods.

This allows you to cover more ground and see the city from a different perspective.

The guide will tailor the route to your interests.

Dinner in Shinjuku

Head to Shinjuku for dinner, an area known for its lively entertainment, towering skyscrapers, and diverse dining options.

Explore Shinjuku Golden Gai or Omoide Yokocho (Piss Alley) for a unique experience, or find a restaurant in Shinjuku East Side.

Tsukiji Outer Market Breakfast

Visit the lively Tsukiji Outer Market for a fresh seafood breakfast, street food, and a glimpse into Tokyo's culinary scene.

Try fresh sushi, tamagoyaki (rolled omelet), or other local delicacies.

Imperial Palace East Garden

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

Enjoy the tranquil gardens and historical remnants.

The East Garden is free to enter. The Inner Palace grounds are generally not open to the public.

Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple

Visit Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple.

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

Experience a touch of old Japan. Try some traditional Japanese sweets or browse for unique gifts.

Sumida River Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Sumida River, offering views of the Tokyo Skytree and other city landmarks from the water.

Dinner near Ueno Park

Dine in the Ueno area, which offers many restaurants near Ueno Park, a cultural hub with museums and a zoo.

Akihabara Anime Fan Tour

Experience Akihabara, the electric town, on a tailor-made private tour for anime and manga fans.

Discover hidden shops, themed cafes, and arcade centers.

Your guide will customize the tour to your specific interests, whether it's retro games, specific anime franchises, or electronics.

Lunch in Akihabara

Enjoy lunch in Akihabara, with options ranging from themed cafes to casual eateries and ramen shops.

Try a local ramen spot or a maid cafe for a unique experience.

Get Unique Insights Tokyo

A private tour with a local guide to get unique insights into Tokyo beyond the typical tourist spots, focusing on areas or themes of your choice.

This tour can be customized to explore areas like Yanaka (old Tokyo), Shimokitazawa (bohemian district), or a food-focused walk.

Izakaya Dinner Experience

Enjoy a relaxed evening at a local Izakaya (Japanese pub) for dinner and drinks.

Experience authentic Japanese small dishes and a lively atmosphere.

Perfect for trying a variety of dishes and local sake or beer.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Spend a peaceful morning at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a beautiful oasis offering traditional Japanese, French, and English landscape gardens.

A perfect place for relaxation and photography. Entry fee applies.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for panoramic views of the city from its free observation decks.

On a clear day, you might even spot Mount Fuji.

Lunch in Shinjuku

Enjoy lunch in the bustling Shinjuku area, with numerous restaurant choices.

Tokyo National Museum

Immerse yourself in Japanese art and antiquities at the Tokyo National Museum, located in Ueno Park.

It houses a vast collection of cultural artifacts.

One of Japan's most important museums. Check for special exhibitions.

Farewell Tokyo Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Tokyo, perhaps trying a dish you haven't had yet or revisiting a favorite.

Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto

Board the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station.

Enjoy scenic views of the Japanese countryside.

Ensure you have your Japan Rail Pass or individual tickets ready. The Shinkansen is a very efficient way to travel between major cities.

Hotel Check-in & Freshen Up

Check into your accommodation in Kyoto and drop off your luggage.

Lunch Near Kyoto Station

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch near Kyoto Station.

Plenty of options available from ramen to katsu.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the stunning Rokuon-ji, commonly known as the Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple with its top two floors completely covered in gold leaf.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its picturesque reflection in the pond.

Ryoan-ji Temple & Zen Garden

Experience the serene and enigmatic rock garden of Ryoan-ji, one of Japan's most famous Zen gardens.

Contemplate the meaning behind the 15 rocks, no matter where you view them from, one rock is always hidden.

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Enjoy dinner along the atmospheric Pontocho Alley, known for its traditional wooden architecture and diverse restaurants.

A great place for people-watching, and if you're lucky, you might spot a geiko or maiko.

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates winding up the sacred mountain.

Wear comfortable shoes as there's a fair amount of walking involved. Go early to avoid large crowds.

Street Food Lunch at Fushimi Inari

Enjoy local street food and snacks from the vendors around the base of Fushimi Inari.

Gion District Exploration

Wander through the historic streets of Gion, Kyoto's most famous geisha district.

Admire traditional wooden machiya houses.

Be respectful if you encounter geiko or maiko, no flash photography or chasing.

Private Tea Ceremony & Sake Tasting

Immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture with a private tea ceremony and sake tasting in a historic Kyoto samurai house.

Enjoy organic matcha and learn about the profound rituals. Booking required.

Dinner in Gion

Savor a traditional Kyoto dinner in one of Gion's many excellent restaurants, perhaps trying kaiseki (multi-course) cuisine.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the iconic towering bamboo stalks of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a tranquil and picturesque natural wonder.

Go early for the best photos and to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive.

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto's most important Zen temples, featuring beautiful gardens.

The Sogenchi Teien garden is considered one of Japan's finest examples of pond-stroll gardens.

Lunch in Arashiyama

Dine at a local restaurant in the charming Arashiyama district.

Many options offer views of the Togetsukyo Bridge or Hozugawa River.

Togetsukyo Bridge & River Views

Stroll across the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, offering picturesque views of the Hozugawa River and surrounding mountains.

Consider renting a rowboat for a leisurely paddle on the river (seasonal).

Kyoto: Zen Garden, Zen Mind Tour

Take a private guided tour to understand the deeper meaning and beauty of Kyoto's Japanese gardens.

Gain unique insights from an expert guide. Booking required.

Dinner in Central Kyoto

Enjoy a relaxed dinner back in central Kyoto, exploring different culinary options.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit Kiyomizu-dera, a stunning wooden temple perched on a hillside, offering panoramic views of Kyoto.

Explore the surrounding Higashiyama district.

Walk up Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka slopes for traditional shops and charming scenery.

Lunch in Higashiyama

Enjoy lunch in the picturesque Higashiyama district, with many traditional eateries and cafes.

Gyoza Cooking Class in Kyoto

Learn to make traditional Japanese Gyoza dumplings from scratch in a hands-on cooking class.

Discover the techniques and history behind this popular dish. Booking required.

Kyoto National Museum

Explore the Kyoto National Museum, home to an extensive collection of Japanese and Asian art, including archaeological artifacts, sculptures, and ceramics.

A great indoor option for cultural immersion, especially on a Monday when some other attractions might be closed.

Dinner at Nishiki Market

Explore Nishiki Market, known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen', for a casual dinner sampling various local specialties and fresh produce.

While many shops close in the evening, some restaurants remain open, offering a lively atmosphere.

Private Car Tour in Kyoto

Enjoy a personalized 7-hour private car tour of Kyoto, customized to your interests, allowing you to explore sites efficiently and comfortably.

A fantastic way to see specific areas or hidden gems with a local guide. Booking required. Price is for the tour, not per person.

Dinner near Kyoto Station

Have a final delightful dinner in Kyoto near Kyoto Station, offering a wide array of dining choices from casual to upscale.

Evening Relaxation

Enjoy a leisurely evening, perhaps a final stroll, or relax at your hotel to prepare for your departure to Osaka tomorrow.

Travel to Osaka

Take a Shinkansen or local train from Kyoto to Osaka.

The journey is quick and efficient.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your accommodation in Osaka and drop off your luggage.

Most hotels allow luggage drop-off even before official check-in time.

Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Explore Shinsaibashi, Osaka's premier shopping district, featuring a mix of high-end brands, department stores, and quirky boutiques.

Lunch in Shinsaibashi

Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants or cafes in the Shinsaibashi area.

Dotonbori Afternoon Stroll

Wander through the iconic Dotonbori entertainment district, famous for its neon lights, giant crab signs, and vibrant atmosphere. Take photos at the Glico Running Man sign.

Dinner in Dotonbori

Savor Osaka's famous street food and local specialties like Takoyaki, Okonomiyaki, and Kushikatsu from one of the many lively restaurants or food stalls.

Osaka Castle Park

Explore the majestic Osaka Castle and its surrounding park.

Climb to the top for panoramic city views and learn about its history.

Lunch near Osaka Castle

Grab a quick lunch at a cafe or restaurant near Osaka Castle.

Osaka Sake Tasting & Takoyaki Cooking Experience

Enjoy cooking Osaka's best street food, Takoyaki, with a local guide's secret recipe and special ingredients, followed by a sake tasting.

Learn to make delicious Takoyaki and enjoy a unique cultural and culinary experience.

Explore Shinsekai District

Visit the nostalgic Shinsekai district, an old downtown area known for its retro charm, Tsutenkaku Tower, and numerous eateries.

Dinner in Shinsekai

Dine in Shinsekai, known for its kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) restaurants, a local specialty.

Travel to Nara

Take a train from Osaka to Nara, an ancient capital famous for its grand temples and free-roaming deer.

Nara Park & Deer Feeding

Upon arrival, walk through Nara Park, where hundreds of wild deer roam freely.

You can purchase 'shika senbei' (deer crackers) to feed them.

Todai-ji Temple & Great Buddha

Visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing a massive bronze Buddha statue.

Its Great Buddha Hall is the world's largest wooden building.

Lunch in Nara

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch in Nara, perhaps trying local specialties like Kakinoha-zushi (persimmon leaf sushi).

Kofuku-ji Temple

Explore Kofuku-ji Temple, another historic Buddhist temple in Nara, known for its beautiful five-storied pagoda.

The pagoda is a prominent landmark of Nara. Some areas are free, while others have a small entrance fee.

Return to Osaka

Take the train back to Osaka after a day of exploring Nara's cultural treasures.

Relaxed Dinner in Osaka

Enjoy a relaxed dinner near your hotel or explore a new neighborhood for culinary delights.

Osaka Early Morning Tour with English-Speaking Guide Dotonbori

Start your day discovering Osaka’s top highlights like Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori with a friendly English-speaking guide, before the crowds arrive.

This walking tour covers multiple key areas and offers great insights into Osaka's culture and history.

Lunch at Kuromon Market

Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch or other local delicacies at Kuromon Ichiba Market, often called 'Osaka's Kitchen'.

Explore Amerikamura

Wander through Amerikamura ('American Village'), a youth-oriented fashion and culture district with quirky shops, cafes, and street art.

Spa World Onsen Experience

Relax and rejuvenate at Spa World, a large hot spring complex featuring themed baths from around the world.

Dinner in Namba

Enjoy your final dinner in Osaka in the bustling Namba district, known for its diverse dining options and entertainment.

Umeda Sky Building & Floating Garden Observatory

Visit the iconic Umeda Sky Building and ascend to its Floating Garden Observatory for breathtaking panoramic views of Osaka.

Lunch in Umeda

Have lunch in the Umeda area, which offers a wide array of dining options from casual eateries to department store restaurants.

Last-minute Souvenir Shopping

Utilize your remaining time for any last-minute souvenir shopping or revisit a favorite spot in Osaka.

Prepare for Departure to Hakone

Return to your hotel to collect luggage and prepare for your departure to Hakone tomorrow.

Early Dinner

Enjoy an early dinner before a relaxed evening and preparation for your next destination.

Lake Ashi Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise across Lake Ashi on a pirate ship, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding mountains on a clear day, as well as the Torii Gate of Hakone Shrine.

Boats depart frequently from various ports around the lake. Check the schedule upon arrival. Consider combining with the Hakone Ropeway for continuous sightseeing.

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Explore Japan's first open-air museum, featuring a vast collection of modern and contemporary sculpture set against a beautiful natural backdrop.

Don't miss the Picasso Pavilion.

The museum has cafes and footbaths. Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking involved.

Lunch in Hakone

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant near the museum or in the Gora area, trying local specialties.

Onsen Relaxation

Unwind and rejuvenate in a traditional Japanese hot spring (onsen).

Many ryokans have their own, or you can visit a public onsen facility.

Understand onsen etiquette before visiting (e.g., showering before entering, no swimwear, separate baths for genders).

Ryokan Dinner

Savor a traditional Japanese multi-course dinner (kaiseki) at your ryokan, a highlight of the stay.

Typically included with ryokan stays; enjoy the seasonal and local ingredients.

Hakone Ropeway & Owakudani

Take the Hakone Ropeway, offering panoramic views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji.

Stop at Owakudani, the 'Great Boiling Valley,' known for its volcanic activity and black eggs.

The black eggs (kuro-tamago) are boiled in the volcanic hot springs and said to prolong your life by seven years. Sulfur fumes can be strong, so people with respiratory issues should be cautious.

Hakone Shrine & Peace Gate

Visit the majestic Hakone Shrine, nestled at the foot of Mount Hakone.

Its iconic red torii gate rising from Lake Ashi, known as the 'Peace Gate,' offers fantastic photo opportunities.

Be prepared for stairs to reach the main shrine complex. The torii gate on the lake is a popular spot, often with a queue for photos.

Lunch in Hakone Town

Enjoy a final lunch in Hakone, perhaps trying some local soba noodles or other regional dishes.

Relaxation / Check-out

Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps revisiting a favorite spot, doing some last-minute souvenir shopping, or simply relaxing at your ryokan.

Ensure you have all your belongings packed and ready for departure tomorrow morning.

Farewell Ryokan Dinner

Enjoy your final traditional Japanese dinner at your ryokan, reflecting on your wonderful trip.

Another opportunity to savor seasonal delicacies.

Breakfast at Ryokan

Enjoy a final Japanese breakfast at your accommodation before heading back to Tokyo.

Travel back to Tokyo

Take a shinkansen or local train from Hakone to Tokyo.

Ensure you allow ample time to reach the airport for your international flight.

Depending on your Hakone accommodation, you might take a bus to Odawara Station and then the Shinkansen to Tokyo.

Lunch at Tokyo Airport

Have lunch at Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) Airport before your departure.

Airport Check-in & Security

Arrive at the airport with sufficient time for check-in, baggage drop-off, and security procedures for your international flight.

International flights typically require arriving 2-3 hours before departure.

Departure from Tokyo to Barcelona

Board your flight from Tokyo back to Barcelona, concluding your unforgettable trip to Japan.

Enjoy your flight home and cherish the memories of your Japan adventure!