How to Plan a 2-Week Trip to Japan: Ultimate Itinerary
Japan is one of those countries that always surprises, no matter how many times you visit.
When I first traveled to Japan, I was amazed at the way that ancient traditions coalesce with modern technology, creating a sensorial experience that feels otherworldly.
I recall standing at the foot of the soaring Tokyo Skytree and, a few hours later, meandering through tranquil temples in Kyoto.
It’s these contradictions that make Japan such a fascinating place to experience.
This is why I’m putting together this guide on how to make an ideal 2-week itinerary in Japan, especially for first-time visitors.
There’s so much on offer during a visit to Japan that planning your trip can seem daunting, but this guide will divide it up for you day by day.
From the frenetic streets of Tokyo to the tranquil temples of Kyoto, I’ll cover it all: what to see, how to get there, where to eat and how to navigate the cultural manners that make Japan such an interesting place to visit.
This article provides an ultimate guide to transportation, food, cultural do’s and don’ts, and even what to pack.
Whether you’re hunting cherry blossoms in springtime or ogling the autumn foliage, this itinerary will ensure you don’t miss the finest Japan has on offer.
Preparing for Your Trip
Best Time to Visit
The time of year that you choose to visit Japan can have a wonderful impact on your experience.
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the most popular.
During spring, cherry blossoms are at their peak, framing beautiful views no matter where you look.
Fall foliage fills the trees with fiery reds and oranges, turning sites like Kyoto and Nara into even more magical places.
Summer visits mean heat and humidity, but it’s festival season too.
While winter does mean colder weather, it is also a unique experience to visit Japan’s hot springs (onsen), or to see snow-covered scenery in the Japanese Alps during winter.
My personal favorite is spring, because who doesn’t like seeing cherry blossoms?
What to Pack
Japan has a range of seasonal and regional climates, so it’s best to pack for the weather you’ll encounter here.
In spring and fall, pack light layers and a waterproof shell: rain can pop up out of nowhere.
In summer, bring lightweight, breathable clothing and sunscreen, as the heat can be extreme.
In winter, you will need a heavy coat, gloves and scarves, especially if you are heading to higher elevations or northern Japan like Hokkaido.
And you may want to bring an extra pair of comfy walking shoes since you’ll be doing plenty of exploring on foot.
Remember an adapter for your electronics, as Japan’s plug type is different.
Finally, pack a reusable water bottle — Japan’s tap water is clean and drinkable, and you can refill as you go.
Visa Requirements
Japan gives a 90 day visa-free entry to most tourists, such as travelers from the USA, UK, Canada and Australia.
But do always verify on the official visa requirements depending on your nationality.
If you plan to stay longer, you’ll need to apply for a tourist visa in advance of your trip.
How to Get Around
Japan has a very effective public transport system.
The cities are best connected by train, and the JR Pass (Japan Rail Pass) is a fantastic option for tourists.
The JR Pass is extremely cheap if you cover a lot of distance, if you are traveling on the JR train lines, including the Shinkansen (bullet trains).
A 7-day JR Pass will run you around $350 USD and a 14-day pass will set you back about $600 USD.
You can use local trains and buses to get around in cities like Tokyo and Kyoto.
For local travel, I suggest buying an IC card (Suica or Pasmo) — it preloads for you so you can get on and off the train easily without needing to continuously buy tickets.
Taxis are available, too, but they are pricier.
Travel Apps
With the use of appropriate apps, Japan’s public transport system is simple to use.
Google maps is great for most cities, but we found that if you want a more localized feel, download Hyperdia it’s especially helpful for planning train routes if you’re using the JR Pass!
And when you need help with language, I always suggest Google translate.
It has a camera feature, so you can take pictures of menus or signs and have it translate them for you in real time.
Another good app used by travelers of Japan is Japan Official Travel App that provides information on train schedules, tourist spots and so on.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1-2: Tokyo
The adventure begins in the most energizing and inspiring city in the world: Tokyo.
You can spend years in Tokyo and never explore it all, but two days will hint at its highlights.
ATTRACTIONS: Begin with the historic district of Asakusa.
Here, you will visit Senso-ji, the oldest and most famous Buddhist temple in Tokyo.
And then head over to the Tokyo Skytree, to enjoy stunning panoramic views over the city.
After, make your way to the lively Shibuya Crossing, considered the busiest intersection in the world.
Stroll around the bizarre streets of Harajuku, where the fashionable Takeshita Street is lined with shopping boutiques, crepe stalls, and vintage shops.
At night, Shinjuku dazzles with neon signs and entertainment options.
If you are looking to have a go at an izakaya (Japanese pub) or check out the iconic Robot Restaurant (somewhat touristy but kitschy), this part of town has a very lively nightlife scene.
Food: When it comes to food, limitless choice: Everything from Michelin-starred Sushi Miyaka to $Bitz on the side of the road (great!), as in a foil-wrappered tuna sandwich. Lunch: A trip to a local ramen shop for a hot bowl of noodles.
You could also sample fresh sushi at a conveyor belt restaurant, or try tempura at one of the small restaurants around Asakusa.
Cultural Etiquette: Bowing is a common greeting while in Tokyo.
If you visit temples, such as Senso-ji, you will need to cleanse your hands and mouth at the purification fountain before entering.
The same goes for public transport: stay quiet and don’t chat on your phone.
Trains are crowded a lot in Tokyo, so when there, always give up your seat for old or pregnant people.
Day 3-5: Hakone & Mt. Fuji
After two days in Tokyo, escape the city with a trip to Hakone, a resort town known for its hot springs and views of Mt. Fuji.
With its serene nature, Hakone is the perfect respite from the fast-paced lifestyle of Tokyo.
Highlights : A regular way to experience Hakone is to stay in the ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) with onsen (hot spring).
It’s an incredibly soothing experience, and the views of Mt. Fuji only add to the experience.
Set aside a day to visit Hakone Shrine, an atmospheric Shinto shrine on the shores of Lake Ashi.
Be sure not to miss the Hakone Ropeway, which offers closeup views of the volcanic Owakudani Valley.
If you want a postcard view of Mt. Fuji, head to the Chureito Pagoda. This five-story pagoda with Fuji in the background is one of Japan’s iconic images.
Food: When you’re in Hakone, be sure to try a traditional kaiseki meal, a multi-course dinner featuring seasonal ingredients.
It’s included in many ryokan stays. Hakone is also famous for its local sake, so be sure to try some while you have the opportunity.
Transportation: Getting from Tokyo to Hakone is simple to do using your JR Pass. Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Odawara Station (around 40 minutes), then transfer to a local train that will take you into Hakone.
Cost: Train travel from Tokyo to Hakone is covered by the JR Pass. A 7-day JR Pass is approximately $350, while going to an onsen will usually cost between $15–30 depending on the place.
Clothing: The weather in Hakone can get tricky and very unpredictable, especially surrounding Mt. Fuji.
Wear layers so you’re ready for sudden drops in temperature, particularly if you are going to higher elevations.
Cultural Etiquette: If you plan to visit an onsen, be prepared: You are expected to wash thoroughly before entering the communal bath.
And it is also very common to leave your towel out of the bath. Onsens are places for relaxing in silence so keep your voice down and follow the quiet atmosphere.
Day 6-8: Kyoto
Kyoto – a city that mesmerizes you with its tranquillity and rich history.
Just stepping into this cultural capital feels worlds apart from the bustling streets of Tokyo.
It’s a place that drags time to a halt, ideal for basking in the splendor of age-old Japanese traditions.
Highlights: Head to Fushimi Inari Shrine to kick off your Kyoto itinerary with a bang — or, rather, a red torii gate.
Hours passed as I followed the path up the mountain, each gate taking me further away from the human realm, deeper into the wild.
The views, of course, from the top are worth every step, but be sure to take your time.
Then, visit Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), a beautiful temple covered in gold leaf, beautifully reflected in the surrounding pond.
Other attractions include the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a striking and surreal scene of towering bamboo stalks.
Finally, wander through Gion, Kyoto’s geisha district (go in the early evening, when you might catch a geisha heading to an appointment).
Characterised by traditional wooden buildings, this area is literally stepping back in time.
For more check out my article on: 25 Epic Things To Do In Kyoto
Food: Among the favorites of Kyoto’s traditional sweets is matcha (green tea), so try matcha-flavored ice cream or matcha-flavored mochi as you get around town.
For a more substantial meal, consider soba noodles, a specialty in the chillier months.
Kyoto is also famous for yudofu, a delicate tofu hotpot that is simple but remarkably rewarding.
Transport: Most convenient way from Hakone to Kyoto is using Shinkansen (bullet train) which is fully covered under JR Pass.
The ride is around two hours, so it’s a relaxing and beautiful journey.
Cost: Admission to most of Kyoto’s popular temples is between $5 and $10. Fushimi Inari Shrine is free, fortunate since you’ll likely devote several hours there.
Clothing: If you’re visiting several temples and shrines in one day, Kyoto requires lots of walking.
You will need good walking shoes! The weather can be seasonal, so I suggest light layers (spring and autumn), warmer clothes (winter)
Cultural Etiquette: At shrines including Fushimi Inari and Kinkaku-ji, visitors must cleanse their hands at the entrance’s purification fountains.
Do keep your voice down and be respectful, especially when entering areas of prayer; and do not take photos where it is prohibited.
Day 9-10: Nara & Osaka
Then spend a little time in the ancient city of Nara, before experiencing the mix of tradition and modernity that is Osaka.
Nara was a tranquil, meditative refuge for me, and Osaka had vibrant street food and a fun city energy.
Highlights: Nara is home to Todai-ji Temple, where you’ll find the giant Buddha statue, one of the largest bronze statues in the world.
Nara Deer Park, just outside the temple grounds, gives you the chance to feed some of the friendly (if sometimes mischievous) deer that wander the area.
Just be careful—they tend to get a little aggressive if they know you have food!
After your time in Nara, move on to Osaka, Japan’s epicurean capital.
I enjoyed walking along the neon-lit streets of Dotonbori, sampling street food and visiting Osaka Castle for views from the top.
Food: Renowned for its street fare, Osaka’s two must-try foods are, again, takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancake with cabbage, meat and seafood).
Both are delicious and available on the food stalls in Dotonbori.
Transportation: Granville to DBH: The fastest way to travel from Kyoto to Nara is by train in approximately 30 minutes, and from Nara to Osaka in around 1 hour,You can use the JR Pass for either route.
Cost: Free to enter Nara Park, but if you want to feed the deer, deer biscuits are available for purchase for about $2. Osaka Castle entrance fees are approximately $6
Cultural Quirk: You can feed the deer in Nara and it’s adorable, but watch out — they get aggressive if they’re hungry.
Feed them only at the proper locations, and do not take them for food.
Day 11-12: Hiroshima & Miyajima
Hiroshima is a place that will leave you with a sense of deep reflection, and Miyajima is one of Japan’s prettiest islands.
Both days were solemn and scenic, and a different beauty than the rest of Japan.
Highlights: Tour the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a poignant tribute to the victims of the atomic bombing.
An essential stop is the A-Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Museum, which provides insight into the city’s tragic history and its inspiring recovery.
Then cross over to nearby Miyajima, famed for its floating Torii Gate at Itsukushima Shrine, which is especially beautiful during high tide.
You also hiked Mt. Misen, where I had amazing views over the Seto Inland Sea.
Food: Hiroshima’s own version of okonomiyaki is filled with nuddles (and even more filling). Miyajima is famous for fresh oysters, which can typically be found grilled and drizzled with lemon juice.
Transportation: Just hop on the Shinkansen between Osaka and Hiroshima using your JR Pass, which will take around 1.5 hours.
At that point, it’s a short ferry ride (roughly 10 minutes) to Miyajima.
Cost: Ferries to Miyajima costs about $4 one way, and entrance fees to the Peace Memorial Museum are around $10.
Clothing: Lightweight walking clothes for Hiroshima and hiking on Mt. Misen on Miyajima. Bringing a hat and sunscreen is also a good idea for sun protection.
Cultural Etiquette: Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park is a site for somber contemplation, so keep conversation to a whisper and be respectful.
At Itsukushima Shrine, some people may be praying or making offerings, and it is important to be considerate and not disturb someone who is engaged in a religious act.
Day 13-14: Back to Tokyo (Nikko/Kamakura Day Trip)
As your fortnight-long journey winds down, it’s time to head back to Tokyo.
But there’s still a lot to be seen!
I spent my last two days taking day trips and touring nearby towns like Nikko and Kamakura.I used these last two days to take day trips and explore nearby towns like Nikko and Kamakura.
Both provide a mix of history, culture and nature.
If you are a theme park fanatic, you can spend an entire day at either Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea.
But if you would rather sip sake in the countryside, hit the road for a day trip to Nikko to visit Toshogu Shrine, an opulently decorated Shinto shrine that contains the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu.
The experience is enhanced by Nikko’s stunning natural landscape, which includes waterfalls and hot springs.
A slightly further jaunt, but still just a train ride away, is Kamakura, where iconic Great Buddha, peaceful temples and hills offer a more subdued escape.
After two weeks of city-hopping, Kamakura’s coastal vibe felt bracing.
Food: At Disneyland, I could not stop eating the quirky, adorable snacks, like mochi-filled alien dumplings or the theme park’s signature popcorn, which comes in flavors as diverse as sweet caramel to spicy cheddar.
In Nikko, order the local specialty, yuba soba — delicate layers of tofu skin served with noodles in broth.
Fresh seafood in Kamakura is a no miss, especially shirasu (whitebait), which is a local delicacy that is eaten raw or boiled on rice.
Getting There: Use your JR Pass to get to either.place.
A train to Nikko takes around 2 hours from Tokyo, while Kamakura is just over an hour away.
For the more adventurous, you can walk at both locations once you arrive, and there are local buses as well.
Price: Tickets to Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea range from $70-90, and food inside the parks can come at a premium, but the experience is second to none.
For visitors going to Nikko or Kamakura, shrine entrance fees are generally $5-10, making these day trips inexpensive.
Also, you may rent bikes in Kamakura to move around with ease.
Cultural Etiquette: Like DisneyLand, proper trash disposal is a must; trash receptacles are limited in Japan and you may find yourself carrying trash for some distance.
While at sites of worship such as Toshogu Shrine in Nikko or Kotoku-in Temple in Kamakura, be respectful by staying quiet, adhering to dress codes (shoulders and legs covered) and purifying your hands at the fountains.
Transportation Between Cities
You can be forgiven for thinking that getting around Japan is an overwhelming endeavor… but in fact its efficient and well-organised.
The value of the Japan Rail Pass is one of the best travel hacks I found, and it was truly a game-changer for cash-strapped adventurers.
Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass):
If you’re looking to travel between a number of regions, the JR Passes are amazing value.
It includes Shinkansen (bullet trains), local JR trains and even some buses and ferries.
I used the 14-day pass for around $600, though there’s a 7-day option for $350 too.
When planned well, it pays for itself many times over (especially for long distances such as from Tokyo to Kyoto or Osaka to Hiroshima).
Taking JR trains is easy and stress-free as there is no need to purchase individual tickets due to the convenience of hopping on and off.
Regional Passes:
If you’ll be exploring just a certain area, there are regional JR passes that are a great value.
For example, I did use the Kansai Pass when I wanted to visit cities such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara.
These passes are more affordable than the nationwide JR Pass and are great if you plan on staying in one area for a lot of your trip.
Shinkansen (Bullet Train):
Apart from fast, clean and a top option to get between Japan’s biggest cities, the Shinkansen (bullet train) is the only train you need to take in Japan.
It’s slightly more expensive without the JR Pass (a one-way trip from Tokyo to Kyoto costs about $120), but it’s covered by the pass.
Trains are incredibly on time, regularly departing in seconds of the schedule.
I suggest arriving early and picking up a bento box from the station to eat on the way!
Local Trains and Buses:
Inside cities, local trains will take you most places.
Tokyo’s sprawling subway system visits nearly every neighborhood, and cities including Kyoto and Osaka have dependable train and bus networks, too.
Local trains are super cheap, often only $1-5 a ride, depending on how far you are going.
I had already been traveling around Japan with IC cards for trains and buses, like Suica or Pasmo, using a simple tap-in, tap-out method instead of fumbling around for change.
If you’re planning day trips beyond major downtown areas (such as Nikko or Kamakura), local buses can be an easy and inexpensive option.
I took buses in Hakone to get to the onsen towns and in Nara to go to the outskirts of the deer park.
Budget Breakdown
Accommodation: There is a broad spectrum of accommodation in Japan.
Hostels or capsule hotels run about $30 a night if you need budget accommodations.
3-star hotels with more facilities and services around $100-$150/night.
Prices vary depending on the season and the location, so please keep that in mind. It’s advisable to book ahead, especially in popular cities like Tokyo and Kyoto.
Food: Japan is a gastronomical paradise, and the good news is the food doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Local markets and smaller eateries have street food, which should range between $5-10 per meal.
These are iconic treats such as takoyaki, yakitori and taiyaki.
Eating at a mid-range restaurant cost about $15-$30 per person for something like ramen, tempura, sushi, etc.
Transportation: If you’re doing long-distance travel, the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is what you want. It’s around $350 for 7 days or $600 for 14 days.
The pass encompasses all major routes, including the bullet trains, and is economical for intercity transport.
In cities, transport passes or local trains are cheap as well, often between $1.50-$5 each trip.
Keep cash for local buses and taxis; not all taxis take cards.
Attraction fees: Entrance to many temples, museums, and parks in Japan also have small entrance fees.
Keep in mind that you should budget about $5-$10 per time.
Some attractions are free (like Nara Deer Park), while others are much more specialized experiences (such as Tokyo Disneyland) can cost more (~$70-90).
If it interests you, you may want to budget more for cultural experiences, like tea ceremonies or traditional performances.
Overall Estimated Cost: For the average two-week trip (accommodation, food, transportation, attractions), you will pay anywhere from $2,500 to $3,500.
Airfare is not included, so plan accordingly based on where you’re flying from.
Best Foods to Try
Street foods: Japanese street food is famous and you can find delicious, cheap bites in the cities such as Osaka and Tokyo.
Street stalls often serve takoyaki — bite-sized fried octopus balls drizzled with sauce — and this dish is a must-order.
Yakitori, grilled chicken skewers, are a great dish for savory flavor lovers and are typically found in izakayas and street markets.
Another street favorite is taiyaki, a fish-shaped cake filled with red bean paste or custard, particularly if you’ve got a sweet tooth.
Japan – Local Food – Traditional Food: Sushi, tempura, ramen, okonomiyaki, and other signature dishes form the core of Japan’s culinary tradition.
Tokyo: real-deal sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market, where seafood is on total display.
For tempura, make your way to Asakusa to enjoy the taste of expertly fried vegetables and seafood.
The soul-warming noodle soup known as ramen is most rewarding enjoyed in cozy ramen shops that dot the country, each region with its own variations on broth styles.
Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake packed with ingredients of your choice, is especially famous in Osaka.
Regional Specialties: One of the pleasures of traveling in Japan is trying the unique regional specialties.
Kyoto is famed for its temples visited to immerse in serenity — but equally famed for its matcha desserts, namely matcha ice cream and sweets flavored with matcha.
Once in Hiroshima, you can’t leave without tasting their famous okonomiyaki (this style differs from Osaka’s) as well as fresh oysters in season in the winter.
And, of course, Osaka has one of the best street food scenes, and its star is takoyaki.
To learn more about my ultimate Japan food guide read my post on: The Ultimate Japan Foodie Guide: 9 Dishes You Must Try
Clothing for the Trip
Spring (March-May): Japan is famous for cherry blossoms in spring.
Bring light layers, such as T-shirts and sweaters, and a waterproof jacket, as the weather can be unpredictable and stormy at times.
Summer (June-August): Japan’s summers are hot and humid, particularly in the cities of Tokyo and Kyoto.
Wear cool, breathable clothing — such as cotton shirts and shorts. Remember sunblock, a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
Fall (September to November): Fall brings nice weather and gorgeous fall foliage.
Pack warm sweaters and jackets and dress in layers; mornings and evenings can be chilly.
Winter (December – February): Winter can be very cold, especially in the northern regions or mountainous regions.
Pack a heavy coat, scarf, gloves and warm shoes. If you’re going to Hokkaido or similar regions, thermal wear is essential.
Comfortable Footwear: Whether you’re trekking through the streets of a major city or venturing to hiking trails to enjoy Japan’s stunning natural scenery, comfortable shoes are a must.
Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, especially if you want to visit Vietnam’s temples or the parks of Nara.
The last thing you need while discovering the splendor of Japan is blisters.
Cultural Etiquette
At Shrines and Temples Japanese religious sites require respect. As you enter a shrine or temple, bow as a mark of respect.
Use the water station to cleanse your hands before entering the shrine, using the ladle to pour water over your hands.
Speak softly, don’t take pictures in sacred areas unless you’re told to.
On Public Transport: Japanese trains and buses tend to be quiet.
Do not talk loudly or make phone calls on the train.
If you must use your phone, silence your phone, and text instead of calling if you can. This makes sure that everyone gets a peaceful ride.
Tipping — Tipping is not customary nor expected in Japan, in fact, in many Western nations tipping is common, but in Japan it is not. In fact, it can be considered rude to leave a tip.
Instead, you can graciously thank with such words as “arigato,” and enjoy the extraordinary service offered free of charge.
Greetings: In Japan, greeting with a bow is the norm, rather than shaking hands.
Bow is a sign of respect and gratitude.
Locals appreciate you giving it a go, and just like saying “sumimasen” (excuse me) to get someone’s attention or apologize, saying “arigato gozaimasu” (thank you very much) is seen as a considerate acknowledgment.
Takeaway, How to plan for a 2 weeks trip to Japan
Japan is a land of differences, a place where both tradition and modernity live together cohesively.
This two-week itinerary will take you through the soul of the country, helping you discover everything it’s known for — from its dynamic cities, including Tokyo and Osaka to its tranquil landscapes of Kyoto and Hiroshima.
Set a plan in advance, appreciate cultural differences and schedule time to truly enjoy every moment — be it sampling local delicacies, exploring ancient temples or taking in the natural beauty of Japan.
Japan travel is not solely about visiting locations, but also about immersing in a culture that is abundant in welcoming people.
