2 week itinerary in Japan
Day 1: Tokyo - Roppongi and Shinjuku
Morning: After an overnight stay at Haneda airport hotel, we were greeted by the stunning view of Mount Fuji from our hotel room. We then headed to Roppongi where our next hotel was located. Whilst awaiting check-in time, we explored the neighbourhood, including Roppongi shopping center and ascended to Tokyo City View tower for panoramic views, entrance cost 2,000 yen. The morning ended with meeting a friend at The Verve, a cozy café that quickly became our go-to spot in Tokyo.
Afternoon: We experienced the vibrant streets of Shinjuku, witnessed the famous 3D cat billboard, and enjoyed a sky night view of the city from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building which is free.
Day 2: Shibuya and Akihabara
Morning: Our day started with the iconic Shibuya Crossing, a bustling symbol of Tokyo’s energy. We added a touch of feline with a visit to the charming cat cafe Mocha. We then headed shopping to the Pokemon and Nintendo Center for cute merchandise.
Afternoon: We immersed ourselves in Akihabara’s manga culture, exploring anime and figurines shops like Radio Kaikan and tried our luck at Gachapon and claw machines.
Day 3: Hie Shrine, Imperial Palace, and Asakusa
Morning: We explored Hie Shrine for a serene retreat and escape from the bustling city .
Afternoon: We visited the Imperial Palace and its majestic gardens and finished the day with a visit of Asakusa where Senso-ji temple is located.
Day 4: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Harajuku
Morning: We walked through the Meiji Jingu forest and payed homage at the tranquil Meiji Jingu Shrine at the centre of the park.
Afternoon: We wandered through the vibrant Takeshita street in Harajuku, exploring quirky shops and trendy cafes.
Day 5: A Day Trip to Mount Fuji
All Day: We took the Shinjuku from Shinjuku station to embark on a mesmerising day trip to Mount Fuji. Once you get off the bus stop, walk to Chureito Pagoda for beautiful Mount-Fuji views. Then walk back to the village and take a moment to relax at one of the area’s charming coffee shops. I highly recommend Matsuya Fujiyoshida for an authentic and relaxing atmosphere, we rested there before catching our bus back to Shinjuku.
Bus: The bus is Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal and the bus stop destination is Chuo EXPWY Shimoyoshida. You can buy your tickets online in advance at highwaybus.com
Day 6: Onward to Kyoto
Morning: Bid farewell to Tokyo and board the bullet train for Kyoto. We sat on the right for the Mont Fuji view, however we couldn’t see it due to the cloudy sky.
Afternoon: We checked in to a traditional Machiya accommodation and explored the lively Nishiki Market and historic Gion district where we saw the iconic Hokanji Pagoda.
Day 7: Higashiyama Area and Gion
Morning: We walked around the picturesque Sannenzaka street. We went around 7am and there were only a few people which was great to take pictures, however all shops were closed.
Afternoon: We explored the historic Kiyomizu Temple, offering breathtaking views of nature.
Day 8: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Morning: We wandered through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, the size of the bamboos trunks were impressive, however we didn’t enjoy this one as much and it gets very crowded early on.
Afternoon: After walking 20,000+ steps each day, we decided we wanted to enjoy resting at the Machiya.
Day 9: Fushimi Inari Taisha
Morning: Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine, famous for its thousands torii gates.We arrived around 7pm and it was already swarming with visitors, keep walking to the top and you will encounter less people and less people as you progress and be able to take pictures peacefully.
Afternoon: Rest
Day 10: Onward to Osaka
Morning: Depart for Osaka.
Afternoon: We checked into Royal Park hotel and took a walk around Osaka’s city center. We preferred Tokyo and Kyoto to Osaka which we found overly crowded and with less interesting sights. We took the best decision for us to stay 2 nights in Osaka and we recommend staying longer in Kyoto and Tokyo.
Day 11: Day Trip to Miyajima Island and Hiroshima
Morning: We took the bullet train to x and then took a 10 minutes ferry journey to visit the picturesque Miyajima Island.
Afternoon: We visited the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.
Day 12: Return to Tokyo
Morning: Journey back to Tokyo. This time sit on the left for Mont Fuji views, however we again couldn’t see it due to cloudy skies.
Afternoon: We checked in to Hamacho hotel and visited the Pokemon center
Day 13: Exploring Ginza
Morning: We delved into Ginza’s area and luxury boutiques. We had the cutest coffee at Ken’s coffee shop and we ate our best meal at Shabusen Ginza. I recommend the Wagyu beef Sukiyaki.
Afternoon: Take in the last moments of Tokyo before departing for London the next morning.
Day 14: Flight to London
Whilst flying back to London, we noticed we flew over to the Arctic Ocean which was magical.