Planning your first unforgettable 14 days in Japan? As a seasoned traveler with a decade of exploring Japan, I’m excited to share my expertise to help you craft the perfect Japan Travel Itinerary 14 Days. Forget rushing through the same crowded tourist traps – this guide is packed with insider tips and updated for 2025 to ensure a unique and authentic experience.
Unlike generic itineraries that merely skim the surface of the “Golden Route” (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka), this japan travel itinerary 14 days dives deeper. I’ve noticed many itineraries are created by those who’ve only recently visited, leading to outdated advice and contributing to overtourism. You won’t find yourself waiting in endless lines for the same predictable photos or feeling disappointed by unmet expectations here.
My goal is to help you experience Japan like a local, to “blend in” and discover hidden gems alongside must-see landmarks. This japan travel itinerary 14 days is designed to transform your first visit into a personalized adventure you’ll truly cherish.
This japan travel itinerary 14 days still includes the popular cities, but at a relaxed pace, factoring in travel time and offering insider advice on the best times to visit attractions and discover lesser-known spots. If you’re dreaming of a 14 day Japan itinerary that goes beyond the typical tourist trail, immersing you in stunning landscapes, unique culinary experiences, and rich history and culture, then keep reading!
Your 14 Day Japan Itinerary Will Cover:
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Two Weeks in Japan Itinerary Overview
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What Makes This 14 Day Japan Itinerary Perfect for You?
Two weeks is the ideal timeframe for your first immersion into Japan. My own initial two-week trip in 2014 sparked a deep love for this country, leading to multiple visits each year. In 2017, I even became a dedicated Japan itinerary specialist!
This practical loop itinerary balances must-see destinations with a relaxed rhythm: 5 nights in vibrant Tokyo, 4 nights in culturally rich Kyoto, 2 nights in historically significant Hiroshima, and 3 nights in culinary Osaka. Ample time for day trips from each base ensures you won’t feel rushed. You can easily conclude your japan travel itinerary 14 days in Osaka or return to Tokyo for your departure.
Here’s what sets this japan travel itinerary 14 days apart:
- Insider Knowledge, Avoid Tourist Traps: Years of frequent visits mean I’ve witnessed tourist trends evolve. I share hidden gems and lesser-known spots to help you escape the cookie-cutter tourist experience during your two week Japan trip.
- Beat the Crowds, Blend In: Aware of overtourism in Japan, I provide strategies to bypass crowds in popular areas and personalize your japan travel itinerary 14 days for a more authentic feel.
- Relaxed Pace, Flexible Exploration: Spending several nights in each city eliminates daily luggage hassles and allows for flexible day trip planning, adapting to weather conditions or spontaneous interests.
- Authentic Cultural Encounters: I’ve incorporated unique cultural experiences based on personal recommendations, connecting you with locals and enriching your journey beyond sightseeing.
- Tried-and-Tested Accommodation: Having revisited some cities over a dozen times, I offer reliable accommodation options to suit various preferences.
Here’s a sneak peek at the highlights awaiting you on this japan travel itinerary 14 days:
2 Week Japan Itinerary Highlights: 1) Shibuya, Tokyo ~ 2) Mt Fuji ~ 3) Deer of Nara ~ 4) Miyajima ~ 5) Ueno, Tokyo ~ 6) Shinsekai, Osaka ~ 7) Hiroshima ~ 8) Hidden Fushimi Inari hike, Kyoto
If you’re considering combining your trip with South Korea, don’t miss my 10 day South Korea itinerary, designed with the same philosophy of blending popular and hidden spots.
Ready to begin your unforgettable japan travel itinerary 14 days? Let’s get started!
Japan 2 Week Itinerary: Your Detailed Day-by-Day Guide
Forget the Japan Rail Pass for this itinerary – individual tickets are more cost-effective. Book online via SmartEx or Klook, use ticket machines in Japan, or visit a JR ticket office.
Pro-Tip: For Tokyo’s subway, the Tokyo Subway Pass is more economical than Suica (IC) Cards. Understand Japan’s transport system with my guide to train symbols in Japan Google Maps, which clarifies transport card types and usage to help you choose the best option.
DAY 0: Arrival & Transit to Tokyo
Aim for an overnight flight to Tokyo to maximize your first day! Get ready to wake up in Japan!
Getting to Tokyo from Haneda Airport
The Tokyo Monorail whisks you from Haneda Airport to Hamamatsuchō in just 15 minutes. Asakusa is about 25 minutes further, while Shinjuku and Shibuya are roughly 30-40 minutes beyond that.
Pro-Tip: Your IC/Suica Card works on the monorail too!
Getting to Tokyo from Narita Airport
The Narita Express train connects Narita Airport and Tokyo in approximately 1 hour.
Pro-Tip: Consider the Airport Limousine Bus as a budget-friendly alternative, almost half the price of the Narita Express. Book tickets in advance for convenience: Narita Airport Limousine tickets.
Where to Stay in Tokyo
With over a dozen visits to Tokyo, I’ve experienced numerous hotels and can recommend several for various needs. My top picks are Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu in vibrant Shibuya and The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon in historic Asakusa. For a comprehensive guide to Tokyo accommodation, including train station proximity, nearby attractions, konbini locations, and detailed reviews, read my advice on where to stay in Tokyo for first-time and repeat travelers. Also, learn why I don’t recommend Airbnb here.
Views from Tokyo hotels I’ve enjoyed: 1&2) Asakusa ~ 3) Shidome ~ 4) Shinjuku ~ 5) Haneda Airport ~ 6) Shibuya
Luggage Tip: Skip luggage forwarding services like Yamato. They can take 24 hours, requiring you to manage with a smaller bag of essentials.
DAYS 1 – 4: Exploring Tokyo
Tokyo’s sheer size can be overwhelming. It’s one of the world’s largest metropolises, with attractions spread across diverse neighborhoods. Planning is key! Decide what you want to see beforehand while leaving room for spontaneity. This approach ensures you savor every moment of your japan travel itinerary 14 days in Tokyo, rather than rushing through a checklist.
Tokyo Must-Sees & Hidden Gems
Tokyo offers endless possibilities. You could easily dedicate a day to each neighborhood! To help you customize your japan travel itinerary 14 days, choose areas based on your interests, map them out, and group nearby attractions. Combining adjacent neighborhoods in a day is also feasible.
I’ve explored over 20 Tokyo neighborhoods! Detailing them all here would make this japan travel itinerary 14 days too long. Instead, consult my detailed Tokyo neighborhood guide based on your interests, offering both popular and alternative spots. For a structured plan, see my detailed first time in Tokyo itinerary for more.
For a first-time japan travel itinerary 14 days, I suggest focusing on these areas:
Lantern of Senso-ji early morning
- Shimokitazawa & Sugamo: These are the “in” neighborhoods for 2025, replacing the now overcrowded and touristy Harajuku (which I no longer highly recommend). “Shimokita” boasts independent boutiques, trendy eateries, and a youthful local vibe. For old-world charm, consider Yanaka Ginza instead. Sugamo, known as “Grandma’s Harajuku,” features a hyper-local street with temples, clothing, green tea, street food, and traditional sweets.
- Ueno: Ueno Park’s scenery is breathtaking, especially around the Moon Pine and the gold-adorned Ueno Toshogu Shrine. Explore Ameyo Yokocho market for souvenirs, street food, and local crafts. Don’t miss the serene Nezu Shrine with its red torii tunnel and meticulously pruned azaleas.
- Minato: For iconic Tokyo Tower views! Visit Zojo-ji Temple with the tower as a backdrop and thousands of stone Jizo statues. Relax with matcha at Hamarikyu Gardens’ teahouse overlooking the pond and greenery.
Places to visit in Tokyo for your 14 day Japan itinerary: 1) Shimbashi, a smaller alternative to Shibuya & Shinjuku ~ 2) Kanda paired with Asakusa ~ 3) Sugamo, a local alternative to Harajuku ~ 4) Nezu Shrine in Ueno ~ 5) Tokyo Tower at night
Tokyo Dining Delights
Shibuya is my culinary haven in Tokyo. Don’t miss Han No Daidokoro for incredible Wagyu beef BBQ, Kirin City izakaya for a classic Japanese pub experience, and the diverse eateries around Shibuya’s Dōgenzaka area.
I highly recommend the Shibuya ramen tour (use code Invisible5 for a discount), where I sampled 6 mini-bowls with a ramen expert (read my review here).
Food Tour Tip: Choosing the right food tour can enhance your culinary journey. My guide to the best food tours in Tokyo reviews multiple tours I’ve personally taken, helping you make the perfect choice.
Explore crêpes in Shimokitazawa, brunch in Azabujuban, Korean cuisine in Shin-Okubo, traditional flavors in Yanaka Ginza, and the unique Maidreamin’ maid café in Akihabara. In Shinjuku, explore Golden Gai/Kabukicho and Omoide Yokocho (now touristy, so consider this Shinjuku foodie tour for a local experience). Note that most food stores open around 10 am.
For quick bites, Japanese konbini (convenience stores – Family Mart, Lawson & 7-11) and street food are excellent. My Japanese snacks guide details popular and traditional treats and where to find them.
Vegans and vegetarians may find Japan challenging. Consider the Vegan Night Foodie Tour for a delicious plant-based experience.
DAYS 5 – 6: Tokyo Day Trips & Mount Fuji
For days 5 and 6 of your japan travel itinerary 14 days, choose two day trips from my suggestions below, or opt for an overnight stay in Fujinomiya – my preferred, less-crowded base for Mount Fuji views.
My comprehensive guide to underrated day trips from Tokyo offers even more options, including some hidden gems you might not have considered!
Two Separate Day Trip Options
An uncrowded alternative to Hakone Shrine in Izu
Day trip ideas from Tokyo for your 14 day Japan itinerary: 1) Yokohama ~ 2) Kawagoe ~ 3) Kamakura ~ 4) Shuzenji Onsen (instead of Hakone) ~ 5) Fuji Five Lakes ~ 6) Nikko
Overnight in Fujinomiya: The Unseen Side of Mount Fuji
For a deeper Fuji experience, spend a night in Fujinomiya, located on the mountain’s western side. Often overlooked by tourists rushing between Tokyo and Kyoto, Fujinomiya offers fewer crowds and incredible views, especially at sunrise (like the view from my room below!).
A day trip to Fujinomiya is possible with this Fujinomiya famous food tour (+ bullet train from Tokyo). However, an overnight stay maximizes your Fuji viewing chances. My guide to what to do in Fujinomiya provides all the details for planning your visit.
Fujinomiya attractions for your 14 day Japan itinerary: 1) Mt Fuji UNESCO World Heritage Centre ~ 2) Fuji yakisoba ~ 3) Sake tasting with Mt Fuji water ~ 4) Wakutamaike Pond ~ 5) Urai River ~ 6) Shiraito Falls ~ 7) Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine ~ Top: Sunrise view from my Fujinomiya hotel room
DAYS 7 – 10: Kyoto: Ancient Capital & Cultural Heart
Days 7-10 of your japan travel itinerary 14 days are dedicated to beautiful Kyoto. Japan’s capital for over 1,000 years, Kyoto boasts over 2,000 temples and shrines and deserves more than a fleeting visit!
Beyond the “Big 4” – Fushimi Inari Taisha, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and Kiyomizu-Dera – Kyoto has so much more to offer. My 4-day Kyoto itinerary reveals a different side of this timeless city, incorporating hidden gems in Kyoto and the best times to visit the “Big 4” to avoid crowds and enhance your experience.
Traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto
The Nozomi shinkansen whisks you from Tokyo’s Shinagawa Station to Kyoto in 2 hours and 20 minutes. This is free on included trains with the Japan Rail Pass.
Kyoto Accommodation Recommendations
I’ve personally stayed in 4 hotels and ryokan in Kyoto, with my top three favorites located in the charming Gion district:
Accommodation Tip: For detailed insights, read my honest recommendations for ryokan and hotels in Gion Kyoto for both first-time and returning visitors.
View from my Kyoto Granbell Hotel room during a Japan winter trip
Kyoto’s Culinary Scene
I love exploring the small, random eateries tucked away in Gion’s alleyways, often relying on Google to find what I’m craving. However, I recommend Manzara-Tei Pontochoen restaurant in Pontocho for a memorable meal.
My Kyoto night tour led me to hidden bars in the Pontocho area, including a unique “rose sake” I wouldn’t have discovered otherwise (read about it here). Nishiki Market is popular but often crowded.
Consider a cooking class! Read about my ramen-making experience here, or explore traditional Kyoto cooking classes and tea ceremonies. Some even offer kimono dress-up options.
Pre-book a small group tour to delve deeper into Kyoto’s culture with a local guide:
Kyoto cultural experiences for your 14 day Japan itinerary: 1&2) Ramen cooking class ~ 3) Bar hopping tour ~ 4) Dinner with a geisha ~ 5) Tea ceremony with a geisha
Kyoto’s Must-See Temples, Shrines & Gardens
Itinerary Tip: Group nearby attractions to explore these areas in a day each. My Kyoto itinerary provides full details.
- Downtown Kyoto: Upon arrival from Tokyo, explore downtown’s shotengai (covered shopping arcades), Kyoto Tower, and Sanjo Ohashi Bridge. Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine are more peaceful in the late afternoon after day-trip crowds depart.
- Northern Kyoto: Start early at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove to avoid crowds (I prefer the quieter bamboo groves at Kodai-ji). Discover often-overlooked Arashiyama spots like Gio-ji Temple & Moss Gardens and Adashino Nembutsu-ji. Finish at Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Late afternoon is best for Kinkaku-ji. However, Nijo Castle’s gold-leaf interior is even more impressive and worth prioritizing!
- Bamboo Grove Alternative: Skip Arashiyama Bamboo Grove entirely and take this Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking tour with a local guide, which visits secluded groves. I loved this experience (more info below).
Top Kyoto sights for your 14 day Japan itinerary: 1) Yasaka Shrine at dusk ~ 2) Bamboo groves of Kodai-ji ~ 3) Gio-ji Moss Gardens ~ 4) Sanjo Ohashi Bridge views ~ 5) Adashino Nenbutsu-ji ~ 6) Kinkaku-ji ~ BOTTOM: Consider Nijo Castle instead of Kinkaku-ji and Arashiyama
- Eastern Kyoto: Begin at Daigo-ji temple & gardens, followed by Nanzen-ji with its aqueduct, or Tofuku-ji with maple gardens. Stroll the Philosopher’s Path to Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion). The Silver Pavilion’s gardens are exquisite. Visit Okazaki-jinja Shrine, dedicated to rabbits!
- Central Kyoto: Start early at Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka streets to see Yasaka Pagoda without crowds (the iconic Sannenzaka cherry tree unfortunately fell down in April 2024). Don’t miss Yasaka Koshindo’s colorful displays! Kiyomizu-dera is best early morning or late afternoon (often crowded at sunset). Find souvenirs along Shijo-dori, visit Kennin-ji with its dragon ceiling, and if you skip the Hidden Hiking Tour, visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in the late afternoon.
Fushimi Inari Tip: Fushimi Inari covers a mountainside! Prepare for extensive walking. To avoid crowds without early mornings or late nights, the Fushimi Inari hidden hike with a Kyoto local is ideal. It also explores hidden bamboo groves, potentially replacing Arashiyama. Read my Fushimi Inari Shrine hike review for details.
Gion Tourist Ban Note: From April 1, 2024, some Gion streets are restricted due to tourist harassment of geisha. These are select private streets, not the entire area. My guide to the Gion tourist ban has essential information.
Kyoto is essential for a 14 day Japan itinerary: 1) Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka ~ 2) Yasaka Pagoda ~ 3) Yasaka Koshindo ~ 4) Kiyomizu-dera in winter ~ 5) Dragon ceiling at Kennin-ji ~ 6) Fushimi Inari hidden hike
Kyoto Activity Tickets in Advance
Consider “Gear,” a unique non-verbal Kyoto performance. It’s a captivating story told through music, magic, choreography, and lighting.
I also highly recommend my traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto with a geisha experience, where I learned about tea history and culture directly from a geisha. More Kyoto experiences include:
Uji is a lovely day trip from Kyoto for tea lovers
DAYS 10 – 12: Hiroshima: History & Hope
Hiroshima is a must-visit for everyone. As a history enthusiast, I was deeply moved by survivor stories and Hiroshima’s resilience after the 1945 atomic bombing.
If the Atomic Bomb Dome wasn’t a stark reminder, you’d hardly guess the tragedy that occurred here. Beyond its history, Hiroshima is a beautiful city in southern Japan, worth exploring beyond the Peace Park.
Getting to Hiroshima from Kyoto
The Nozomi shinkansen from Kyoto Station to Hiroshima takes 1 hour and 40 minutes, free on included trains with the Japan Rail Pass.
Hiroshima Accommodation
Hiroshima hotels offer great value compared to other Japanese cities. I’ve stayed in 3 and recommend them all.
Need more options? Find hotels in Central Hiroshima here.
Hotel Tip: At the Royal RIHGA Hotel, request a corner room for breathtaking 180° city views:
View from RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima
Hiroshima’s Culinary Delights
Hon-dori Arcade offers numerous dining options. Try local okonomiyaki (savory pancake) at Okonomimura, a building with multiple okonomiyaki restaurants! Each restaurant has its own style, so you can’t go wrong.
I also enjoyed Japan’s famous soufflé pancakes at Happy Pancake (without any wait!).
To discover hidden eateries and bars, take a Hiroshima bar hopping tour with a local guide, or a best of Hiroshima foodie tour. Consider a “Sake Town” tour in Saijo to learn about Japanese food, culture, and meet locals.
Hiroshima-style Okonmiyaki in Okonomimura
Meaningful Things to Do in Hiroshima
Hiroshima Guide Tip: My complete meaningful and fun things to do in Hiroshima guide provides more details!
- Explore and shop along Hondori Arcade. Find unique souvenirs here.
- Reflect at the A-Bomb Dome (UNESCO World Heritage site), admire paper cranes at the Children’s Peace Monument, and find Jizoson with its haunting nuclear shadow.
- See the Peace Arch en route to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. The museum displays artifacts that survived the blast, illustrating the bomb’s devastating impact.
- The Peace Flame symbolizes the hope for a world without nuclear weapons, and nearby Phoenix Trees miraculously survived the blast.
- The National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims highlights water’s symbolism in Hiroshima’s memorials, shares survivor stories, and displays a soil sample showing debris from the bombing.
Hiroshima highlights for your 14 day Japan itinerary: 1) Hondori Arcade ~ 2&4) Children’s Peace Memorial Park ~ 3) Peace Arch & Flame ~ 5) Jizoson’s nuclear shadow ~ 6) Soil Sample of past 400 years ~ 7) Peace Memorial Museum ~ 8) Atomic Bomb Dome
Consider adding lesser-known Onomichi to your 14 day Japan itinerary
OPTIONAL: Miyajima Day Trip (Itsukushima Shrine)
Extend your Hiroshima stay with a day trip to Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island (UNESCO World Heritage site). Dating back to the 13th century, this National Treasure is famous for its floating torii gate, but offers much more.
- Getting There: Aquanet Ferry from Hiroshima Peace Park to Miyajima Island (approx. 45 mins).
- Cost: Roundtrip ~JPY 4,000 (not JR Pass included).
My detailed guide to a Miyajima day trip from Hiroshima provides ferry comparisons, overlooked places, and tips for maximizing your visit.
Tide Tip: Check the tide information to see the Grand Torii at high tide (floating appearance) or low tide (walk beneath it).
Things to do in Miyajima for your 14 day Japan itinerary: 1,2,3) Daisho-in Temple ~ 4) Wild deer ~ 5,6,7) Itsukushima Shrine ~ 8) Mt Misen summit ~ Top: Floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine
DAYS 12 – 14: Osaka: Japan’s Kitchen & Vibrant City
Osaka, “Japan’s Kitchen,” is a feast for the senses! Prepare for incredible food, shopping, and vibrant city life. From takoyaki aromas to Pachinko parlors and neon lights, Osaka is an experience.
Osaka originated as a merchant city, unlike samurai-centric cities. Remember to stand on the RIGHT side of escalators (opposite to most of Japan)!
Traveling from Hiroshima to Osaka
The Nozomi shinkansen from Hiroshima to Osaka takes 1 hour and 20 minutes, free on included trains with the Japan Rail Pass.
Osaka Accommodation
Honestly, if you’re not visiting Universal Studios Japan, Osaka’s sights can be day-tripped from Kyoto.
If staying in Osaka, I recommend:
Need more Osaka accommodation info? Find hotels in Chuo Ward, Osaka here.
Osaka’s Food Paradise
Osaka is world-famous for street food! Don’t miss trying as much as possible. Kuromon Ichiba Market is popular with locals and tourists. For a unique experience, fish for your own dinner at Zauo Restaurant.
To avoid Dotonbori crowds, I explored Shinsekai neighborhood with a local, discovering hidden gems. This retro area, largely untouched by war, retains original buildings.
Read my review of the best Osaka street food according to locals or book foodie tours with local guides:
Osaka’s Top Attractions
Osaka Itinerary Tip: See most Osaka highlights in 2 days, then add a day trip. My in-depth Osaka itinerary has more details.
- See the famous Glico Man in Dotonbori, admire artistic drain covers, and explore meticulously arranged shops.
- Spend a day at Osaka Castle Museum, enjoy 360° views from the observation deck, and wander the grounds. The peach and plum grove behind the castle is a great alternative to crowded cherry blossoms in February. Don’t miss the Time Capsule to be opened in 5000!
- Embrace kuidaore (eat ‘til you drop)! Start your foodie adventure at Shinsaibashi-suji Arcade and Kuromon Ichiba Market.
- Find Hozen-ji Yokocho, a hidden gem with the mossy Mizukake Fudo statue.
- Visit the giant lion’s head at Namba Shrine.
- Explore retro Shinsekai or America-mura neighborhoods in the afternoon. Shinsekai, dating to the 1930s, was the “New World,” showcasing European architecture.
Things to do in Osaka for your 14 day Japan itinerary: 1) Namba Shrine ~ 2) Dotonbori ~ 3) Hozen-ji ~ 4 Hozen Yokocho ~ 5) Osaka Castle ~ 6) Shinsekai ~ 7) Osaka Castle Observation Deck ~ 8) Artistic manhole cover.~ Top: Shinsekai at night
OPTIONAL: Nara Day Trip from Osaka or Kyoto
A Nara day trip is easy and rewarding. Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital in 710 AD, is historically significant and influenced by Buddhism.
Deer, considered messengers of the gods, roam freely. Nara has a unique spiritual aura, especially beautiful during the “golden hour” late afternoon.
- Kyoto Station to Nara: 35 mins (Kintetsu limited express to Kintestu Nara Station, closer to Nara Deer Park) or 45 mins (JR Nara Station).
- Osaka Namba Station to Nara: 50 mins (Kintetsu limited express to Kintestu Nara Station) or 45 mins (JR Nara Station).
- Train Tip: For the Kintestu line, you might need to pay for the Limited Express portion in cash onboard if using a Suica card.
Nara’s Spiritual and Historical Treasures
Nara Day Trip Guide: My detailed Nara one day itinerary from Osaka or Kyoto covers these locations and more.
- Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the world’s largest wooden structure. See the giant bronze Buddha and try fitting through the pillar hole for good luck!
- Yoshiki-en Gardens offer breathtaking moss and greenery.
- Sarusawa Pond Park & Ukimido Pond provide scenic views with historic structures.
- Naramachi old town features the Naramachi Museum.
- Todai-ji Nigatsu-do offers panoramic Nara views (especially at sunset!).
- Kasuga-Taisha Shrine boasts 3,000 stone and golden lanterns. It’s Nara’s most celebrated shrine, with a winter fire festival in January.
- Kofuku-ji, the Fujiwara clan’s family temple, has some of Nara’s oldest structures.
Day Trip Expansion Tip: For more day trip ideas beyond Universal Studios, my guide to inspiring day trips from Kyoto or Osaka (including Uji, Himeji, Kobe, and more) offers popular and alternative destinations.
Things to do in Nara for your 14 day Japan itinerary: 1) Giant Daibutsu at Todai-ji ~2) Yoshiki-en Gardens ~ 3) Ukimido Pond ~ 4) Naramachi & Museum ~ 5) Todai-ji Nigatsu-do ~ 6) Kasuga Taisha Shrine
DAY 14: Return to Tokyo
Return to Tokyo at least one day before your flight home as a buffer for unforeseen delays (natural disasters, train delays).
Upon returning to Tokyo from Osaka or Kyoto, visit a museum like teamLab Borderless or Planets, revisit a favorite neighborhood, or explore a new one from my Tokyo neighborhood guide!
Traveling Back to Tokyo
The Nozomi shinkansen from Osaka Station to Tokyo takes 2 hours 40 minutes; from Kyoto Station, it’s 2 hours 10 minutes. Free on included trains with the Japan Rail Pass.
Tokyo Hotel for Your Final Night
Consider staying in a different Tokyo neighborhood for your last night. Park Hotel Tokyo in Minato offers Tokyo Tower views, or The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon Asakusa in Asakusa provides Senso-ji views.
Day 15: Departure
Head back to Haneda or Narita Airport for your flight home. Leaving Japan is always bittersweet!
Getting Back to Haneda Airport
The Tokyo Monorail connects Tokyo (Hamamatsuchō) and Haneda Airport in 15 minutes.
Getting Back to Narita Airport
The Narita Express train from Tokyo to Narita Airport takes approximately 1 hour.
The Narita Airport Limousine Bus is another option. Book Narita Airport Limousine tickets here.
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Two Weeks in Japan Budget: Estimated Costs
To simplify budgeting for your japan travel itinerary 14 days, here’s an estimated cost for two adults on a mid-range budget. Exchange rates and personal preferences may vary, but use this as a guideline.
Estimated 2 Week Japan Cost (for two adults)
- Flights: Highly variable! From Sydney, Australia to Tokyo, aim for under AUD 1,500 direct. Flights have increased since Japan’s reopening in October 2022.
- Hotels: ~USD 2,200 / ~JPY 34,400 (3-4 star, twin share)
- Long Distance Trains: ~USD 950 / ~JPY 148,600 (Nozomi shinkansen, express train to Hakone, Miyajima ferry, etc.)
- Total (excluding flights & spending money): ~USD 3,150 (depends on exchange rate).
For spending money, I typically budget USD 300-400 per week for myself (Suica card top-ups, temple entries, konbini meals, small souvenirs). You can adjust this based on your spending habits.
Important Considerations for Your 14 Day Japan Itinerary
Japan’s Busy Seasons & Public Holidays
Book accommodation well in advance, especially during peak travel periods. Some accommodations only show availability 3-6 months ahead.
- New Year’s (late Dec – early Jan): Expect closures and crowded bullet trains as people return home. ATMs may be unavailable Jan 1-3.
- Cherry Blossom Season (late March – mid-April): Book well in advance. See my spring in Japan guide for best viewing times. Consider less crowded spring flowers in Japan as alternatives.
- Golden Week (late April – early May): Japan’s busiest travel period. Expect crowds; avoid if possible. Holidays run from April 29 to May 5.
- Osaka Expo 2025 (April 13 – Oct 13, 2025): Expect crowds near the port of Osaka/USJ area.
- Fall Foliage (Sept – Nov): Another popular season.
- Silver Week (mid-Sept): Occurs every 5-6 years, creating a 4-day weekend. Next Silver Week is in 2026.
- See the full list of public holidays in Japan.
Tickets for Popular Attractions
Helpful Resources for Your 14 Days in Japan
Here’s a summary of useful resources for planning your japan travel itinerary 14 days:
Concluding Your Unforgettable 14 Day Japan Itinerary
This japan travel itinerary 14 days loop efficiently covers major sights and hidden gems without rushing or backtracking. While it may seem packed, careful planning allows for a relaxed pace, savoring each moment of your unique Japanese adventure.
Remember, you don’t need to return to Tokyo if flying out of Osaka is more convenient. However, return flights from Tokyo are often cheaper, even with the bullet train journey back.
Explore More Expert Japan Guides
How’s your japan travel itinerary 14 days planning going? What are your thoughts on this 14 day Japan itinerary? Any questions? Share in the comments below!
If this guide was helpful, share it with friends and join my free Japan Off the Beaten Path Facebook Group, or connect with me on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram, and TikTok for more Japan inspiration!
Until next time,
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