Tokyo, Japan 16-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive at Narita Airport (NRT)

Arrive at Narita International Airport.

Clear customs and immigration.

Ensure you have your passports and any necessary visa documents ready. Follow signs for trains or buses to central Tokyo.

Transfer to Hotel & Check-in

Take the train or bus from Narita to your hotel in Tokyo and check-in.

Settle into your accommodations.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Enjoy a relaxing stroll through one of Tokyo's most beautiful and spacious gardens, featuring French, English, and traditional Japanese landscape styles.

A perfect way to unwind after your flight.

The garden closes at 5:30 PM (last entry 5:00 PM) in May, so aim for an early evening visit. Picnics are allowed in designated areas.

Dinner in Shinjuku

Enjoy a casual dinner in Shinjuku, exploring the vibrant restaurant scene around your hotel.

Imperial Palace East Garden

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

It's a vast green oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a peaceful morning walk.

Entry is free. The garden is closed on Mondays and Fridays, so Wednesday is ideal. Wear comfortable shoes.

Chidorigafuchi Moat Boat Ride

Enjoy a relaxing rowboat or pedal boat ride on the scenic Chidorigafuchi Moat, offering unique views of the Imperial Palace walls and surrounding greenery.

Popular spot, especially during cherry blossom season, but still beautiful in May. Prices are per boat for a set duration.

Lunch near Tokyo Station

Grab lunch around the bustling Tokyo Station area, offering numerous dining options from quick bites to more formal restaurants.

3-Hour Tokyo Private E-Bike Tour

Experience Tokyo's hidden gems and iconic sights on a private e-bike tour, starting and ending at your hotel.

A fun and active way to see the city's outdoor spaces.

This tour is customizable and includes guide and e-bike rental. Great for families.

Private Mt Fuji Tour: Scenic BBQ & Hidden Gems

Embark on an exhilarating day trip to the foothills of Mt.

Fuji. Enjoy a flavorful Japanese-style BBQ lunch, capture stunning scenery in a guided photo session, and explore iconic Lake Motosu, known for its panorama. This private tour is perfect for experiencing Japan's natural beauty.

Includes professional guide, BBQ lunch, and transportation from/to Tokyo. Remember to dress in layers as mountain weather can change.

Yoyogi Park & Meiji Jingu Shrine

Start your day with a refreshing walk through Yoyogi Park, one of Tokyo's largest city parks.

Afterwards, visit the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, located within a beautiful forested area.

The park is a great spot for people-watching and enjoying nature. The shrine offers a serene escape. Walking through the torii gates and gravel paths is a unique experience.

Lunch in Harajuku

Explore the trendy Harajuku district and find a fun spot for lunch.

Options range from quirky cafes to delicious crepe stands.

teamLab Planets TOKYO

Immerse yourselves in a unique digital art museum where you walk through water and become one with the flowers.

This interactive experience is engaging and memorable for all ages, offering a distinct sensory journey.

Book tickets well in advance as it's very popular. Wear shorts or roll up your trousers as you will walk through water. Lockers are available for bags and shoes.

Dinner in Odaiba

Enjoy dinner in the futuristic Odaiba district, with many restaurants offering views of Tokyo Bay and the Rainbow Bridge.

Explore Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple

Wander through the historic Asakusa district.

Walk down Nakamise-dori, a bustling shopping street, leading to the magnificent Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest temple. It’s a lively outdoor cultural experience.

Try some traditional Japanese snacks from the stalls along Nakamise-dori. The area can get crowded, especially on a Saturday.

Sumida River Cruise

Take a scenic cruise along the Sumida River, offering unique perspectives of Tokyo's skyline and landmarks like the Tokyo Skytree, moving from traditional Asakusa to modern districts.

Various companies offer cruises; check schedules and routes upon arrival. Great for an outdoor, relaxing view.

Asakusa Classic Ramen & Crispy Gyoza Cooking Class

Learn to make classic ramen and crispy gyoza from scratch in a hands-on cooking class in Asakusa, the birthplace of Tokyo ramen.

A fun and delicious cultural activity for the whole family.

This class is highly rated and great for interactive learning. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch!

Leisure & Family Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed evening, perhaps returning to your favorite Tokyo neighborhood for dinner or exploring a local park.

Prepare for your journey to the next destination tomorrow.

Travel to Hakone

Board a train from Tokyo to Odawara, then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway to Hakone-Yumoto.

Utilize the Hakone Free Pass for easy access to various forms of transport within the region.

Hakone Ropeway & Owakudani

Experience panoramic views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji from the Hakone Ropeway.

Explore Owakudani, a volcanic valley known for its hot springs and sulfurous fumes, and try the local black eggs.

The Hakone Ropeway is covered by the Hakone Free Pass. Owakudani black eggs are said to add 7 years to your life!

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Discover a unique outdoor art experience with sculptures and installations set against the stunning natural backdrop of Hakone.

Perfect for families with interactive exhibits.

The museum is very child-friendly with climbing structures and mazes integrated into the art.

Lake Ashi Pirate Ship Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise across Lake Ashi on a 'pirate ship,' offering magnificent views of Mount Fuji and the Torii gate of Hakone Shrine.

The cruise is covered by the Hakone Free Pass.

Dinner in Hakone

Savor a traditional Japanese dinner at a local restaurant near your accommodation.

Pola Museum of Art

Visit the Pola Museum of Art, featuring Impressionist and modern Japanese art, beautifully integrated into the surrounding nature.

The building's architecture is a highlight itself.

Includes pleasant walking trails in the natural park surrounding the museum.

Family Onsen Experience

Relax and unwind at a family-friendly onsen (hot spring).

Many establishments offer private baths suitable for families, allowing you to experience Japan's famous bathing culture together.

Look for onsen with private 'kashikiri' baths if you prefer a private family experience. Remember onsen etiquette.

Explore Gora Park

Stroll through Gora Park, a French-style landscaped park with a beautiful fountain, rose garden, and a tea house where you can try matcha green tea.

Access to Gora Park is free with the Hakone Free Pass. There are workshops like glass blowing available (additional cost).

Souvenir Shopping

Browse local shops for unique Hakone souvenirs, such as 'Yosegi-zaiku' (marquetry woodwork) and local crafts.

Dinner & Relax

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Gora or your ryokan, followed by a relaxing evening.

Travel to Fuji Five Lakes (Kawaguchiko)

Travel from Hakone to the Kawaguchiko area, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, offering spectacular views of Mount Fuji.

Chureito Pagoda & Arakurayama Sengen Park

Hike up to the iconic Chureito Pagoda located in Arakurayama Sengen Park for one of Japan's most famous views – the red pagoda with Mount Fuji in the background.

It's a bit of a climb, but worth it!

Best photo spot for Mount Fuji with a pagoda. Be prepared for stairs (around 400 steps).

Lake Kawaguchiko Stroll & Views

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko, taking in the stunning reflections of Mount Fuji on the water.

Consider renting a paddle boat for a different perspective.

Various cafes and souvenir shops are located along the lake. Pedal boat rentals are typically available.

Dinner in Kawaguchiko

Dine at a local restaurant in Kawaguchiko, perhaps trying some local Yamanashi cuisine like Hoto noodles (thick wheat noodles in miso soup).

Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

Ascend the Kachi-Kachi Yama Ropeway for breathtaking 360-degree views of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko. The upper station features a viewing platform and a small shrine.

The ropeway is themed around a famous Japanese folk tale, 'The Rabbit and the Tanuki'.

Fugaku Wind Cave & Narusawa Ice Cave

Explore the natural lava caves formed by past eruptions of Mount Fuji.

The Fugaku Wind Cave maintains a cool temperature year-round, while the Narusawa Ice Cave features ice formations even in summer. Both offer accessible, family-friendly routes.

Wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket as the caves are cool. The paths are well-maintained.

Aokigahara Forest Gentle Walk

Take a gentle and well-marked nature walk around the forest edges near the caves.

This part of Aokigahara Forest is perfectly safe and showcases the unique ecosystem and lava formations.

Stick to marked trails. Enjoy the tranquility of the forest.

Dinner with Fuji Views

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant offering beautiful evening views of Mount Fuji.

Fuji Safari Park

Embark on an exciting safari experience where you can observe animals from around the world roaming freely in large zones. Drive through in your own car or take a jungle bus.

A popular attraction for families. Consider the jungle bus for a guided tour and feeding opportunities.

Lunch at Fuji Safari Park

Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants or food stalls within Fuji Safari Park.

Leisure & Souvenirs

Enjoy some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping around Kawaguchiko or simply relax and take in the views of Mount Fuji before preparing for tomorrow's journey.

Farewell Fuji Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in the Fuji Five Lakes area, savoring the last moments with Mount Fuji's majestic presence.

Shinkansen to Kyoto

Board the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Odawara (or a nearby station in the Hakone area) to Kyoto.

Enjoy the scenic journey as you head towards Japan's ancient capital.

Ensure you have your Japan Rail Pass if applicable, or purchase tickets in advance. Consider booking seats for comfort, especially with luggage and a child.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Arrive at your accommodation in Kyoto, check-in, drop off luggage, and have lunch at a local restaurant near your hotel.

Many hotels allow early luggage drop-off even if the room isn't ready. Explore nearby eateries for a quick and authentic Japanese meal.

Yasaka Shrine

Visit Yasaka Shrine, known for its beautiful main gate and as the host of the Gion Matsuri.

Explore the spacious grounds and admire the traditional architecture.

Located at the eastern end of Shijo Street, it's a great starting point for exploring Gion. Entry is free.

Gion District Stroll

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

Admire traditional wooden machiya houses and perhaps spot a geiko or maiko.

Be respectful when taking photos, especially if you see geisha. Focus on the architecture and atmosphere. Hanamikoji Street is particularly picturesque.

Dinner in Gion

Enjoy a traditional dinner in the atmospheric Gion district.

Options range from casual izakayas to more upscale kaiseki (multi-course) meals.

Look for restaurants offering child-friendly options. Reservations might be helpful for popular spots.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the enchanting towering bamboo stalks of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

It's an iconic and serene natural escape.

Go early to avoid crowds. The path is relatively flat and easy for an 8-year-old.

Tenryu-ji Temple & Garden

Explore Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto's most important Zen temples, featuring a beautiful strolling garden with a pond.

Entry fee for the garden and optionally for the temple halls. The garden is particularly lovely and spacious.

Lunch in Arashiyama

Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants in the Arashiyama area, offering various Japanese cuisines.

Look for local specialties like yudofu (boiled tofu) or simple noodle dishes.

Iwatayama Monkey Park

Hike up to Iwatayama Monkey Park to observe over 100 wild Japanese macaques in their natural habitat, with panoramic views of Kyoto.

There's a moderate uphill walk to reach the park. You can feed the monkeys from inside a designated hut. This is a fun outdoor activity for an 8-year-old.

Togetsukyo Bridge Photo Op

Take a leisurely walk across Togetsukyo Bridge, offering picturesque views of the Hozugawa River and the surrounding mountains.

A perfect spot for family photos with the scenic backdrop.

Kyoto Local Dinner

Return to your hotel area for a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some regional Kyoto dishes.

Kyoto cuisine is known for its delicate flavors and fresh ingredients.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its wooden stage offering panoramic views of Kyoto.

The walk up to the temple is lined with shops. The temple complex involves some walking and stairs, but offers incredible photo opportunities.

Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka Streets

Descend through the charming, traditional Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka streets, perfect for souvenir shopping and soaking in the old Kyoto atmosphere.

These narrow, stone-paved streets are very picturesque. Look for traditional crafts, sweets, and tea houses.

Lunch in Higashiyama

Have lunch in the Higashiyama district, near Kiyomizu-dera, with many small eateries offering quick and delicious meals.

Try some Kyoto-style udon or soba noodles.

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine Hike

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

This is a great outdoor activity for the family.

The path to the summit can be a good hike (2-3 hours round trip), but you can turn back at any point. There are tea houses along the way. Entry is free.

Dinner near Kyoto Station

Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants located in or around Kyoto Station, offering a wide variety of cuisines.

Kyoto Station boasts numerous dining options, from casual ramen to department store food halls (depachika).

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit Kinkaku-ji, the stunning Golden Pavilion, shimmering over its reflecting pond.

Explore the beautiful surrounding traditional Japanese garden.

One of Kyoto's most iconic sights. The garden path is easy to navigate. Best for morning photos.

Ryoan-ji Temple & Rock Garden

Discover Ryoan-ji Temple, home to Japan's most famous Zen rock garden.

Contemplate the mysterious arrangement of stones in a serene setting.

A tranquil experience, even for children, who might enjoy trying to spot all 15 rocks from one vantage point.

Lunch near Nijo Castle

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in the vicinity of Nijo Castle or the Imperial Palace, offering a break before more exploration.

Look for local eateries with set menus for good value.

Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Stroll through the vast grounds of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park (Kyoto Gyoen), a large public park surrounding the former Imperial Palace.

It's a great space for an 8-year-old to run around.

Entry to the park is free. The Imperial Palace itself requires prior booking, but the park is open for all to enjoy its open spaces and trees.

Japanese Tea Ceremony Experience

Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, a serene cultural experience that introduces the aesthetics of 'Chanoyu'.

Many offer child-friendly options.

Book this in advance. It's a wonderful way to immerse in Japanese culture quietly. Many places cater to English speakers.

Dinner along Pontocho Alley

Dine along Pontocho Alley, a narrow atmospheric lane packed with restaurants and bars, running between Shijo and Sanjo along the Kamo River.

Offers a lively evening ambiance. Look for restaurants with river views if dining during warmer months. Many restaurants have English menus.

Travel to Nara

Take a local or rapid train from Kyoto Station to Nara Station.

The journey is short and comfortable.

The Miyakoji Rapid Service on the JR Nara Line is the quickest option. An 8-year-old will enjoy the train ride.

Nara Park & Deer Interaction

Explore Nara Park, famous for its freely roaming wild deer.

You can purchase 'shika senbei' (deer crackers) to feed them, a memorable experience for the family.

Deer can be quite eager, supervise the 8-year-old closely. Be mindful of your belongings. Enjoy the expansive green space.

Todai-ji Temple (Great Buddha Hall)

Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to a massive bronze statue of Buddha (Daibutsu) housed in the world's largest wooden building.

A truly impressive sight. There's also a pillar with a hole that kids love to try and crawl through (said to grant enlightenment).

Lunch in Nara

Enjoy a well-deserved lunch in Nara, with many restaurants catering to tourists and local specialties available.

Try Kakinoha-zushi (persimmon leaf sushi) or other Nara-specific dishes.

Return to Kyoto

Take the train back to Kyoto, giving you time to relax before your final dinner in Kyoto.

Reflect on the day's adventures with the deer!

Farewell Kyoto Dinner

Enjoy a special farewell dinner in Kyoto, savoring your last evening in this beautiful city.

Perhaps try a hot pot or a traditional obanzai (Kyoto home-style dishes) restaurant.

Osaka Castle & Park

Visit the iconic Osaka Castle, a symbol of Osaka and a key part of Japan's history.

Explore the main tower, which houses a museum detailing its history, and enjoy the surrounding castle park, perfect for a family stroll. The observation deck offers panoramic city views.

Entry to the castle tower is required for the museum and observation deck. The park itself is free to explore. Great for an 8-year-old with its historical displays and open spaces. Consider taking a local train or subway to Osakajokoen Station or Tanimachiyonchome Station.

Lunch in Central Osaka

Enjoy a final Japanese meal near the Osaka Castle area or as you make your way towards your next destination.

Options range from casual ramen shops to family-friendly restaurants.

Explore local eateries for quick and delicious options. Umeda offers many choices if you head north towards the airport.

Dotonbori District Stroll

Experience the vibrant energy of Dotonbori, Osaka's famous entertainment district.

See the iconic Glico Running Man sign, browse the unique shops, and grab some last-minute street food snacks like takoyaki or okonomiyaki. It's a lively atmosphere to soak in before your departure.

Enjoy the sights and sounds. It can get very crowded, so keep an eye on your child. This is a great spot for memorable photos and quick souvenir shopping.

Travel to Itami Airport (ITM)

Make your way to Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) for your departure.

Itami is well-connected by limousine bus from major Osaka stations like Shin-Osaka or Umeda, or by local trains and the Osaka Monorail.

Allow ample time for travel, check-in, and security, especially with an 8-year-old. Limousine buses are often the most convenient option for families with luggage, departing frequently from major city hubs.

Depart from Itami Airport (ITM)

Complete check-in procedures, pass through security, and enjoy some time at Itami Airport before boarding your flight for your journey home.

Reflect on your wonderful trip to Japan!

Itami Airport has shops and restaurants where you can grab a final meal or souvenir.