Planning a trip to Japan? In 2017, I spent nearly 12 unforgettable days traveling through Japan , a country known for its incredible food, rich history, and unique blend of tradition and modern life. During this trip, I visited Tokyo, Osaka, Nara, Kyoto, and several other destinations, experiencing everything from vibrant city streets to peaceful temples and shrines.
This 12-day Japan itinerary shares the route I followed, the places I explored, and helpful tips I picked up along the way. Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking for inspiration, I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in Japan and plan an unforgettable trip.
Map
Japan Travel: Day 1 - Arrived to Tokyo
Where I stayed: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
Japan Travel: Day 2 - Explore the city
Today, I wandered around the Akasaka area before heading to an exciting sumo wrestling match later in the day. It was an unforgettable experience!
Japan Travel: Day 3 - Tokyo Disneysea
Today, I decided to visit Tokyo DisneySea. I had already been to Tokyo Disneyland, so I wanted to experience something different. I spent the whole day there and truly enjoyed it!
Japan Travel: Day 4 - Heading to Osaka
Today, I headed to Osaka by bullet train, a journey of about two and a half hours. After arriving at my hotel, I decided to visit Grand Front Osaka and explore the Dotonbori area before heading back to my hotel.
Where I stayed: Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka
Japan Travel: Day 5 - Explore Osaka
Today, I explored around Osaka. The places I visited included Osaka Castle, Shitennō-ji Temple, and Sumiyoshi Taisha. Later in the day, I went back to the Dotonbori area to enjoy dinner
Osaka Castle
Shitennō-ji Temple
Sumiyoshi Taisha
Japan Travel: Day 6 - Mt. Koya
Today, I’ll be visiting Mt. Koya. It is the center of Shingon Buddhism. It took me over two hours to get there by train. I spent the whole day there. The places I visited were Mount Koya, Koyasan, Kongōbu-ji, and Okunoin Cemetery.
Mt. Koya
Okunoin Cemetery
Japan Travel: Day 7 - Nara
Today, I visited Nara, which is known for its wild deer. It is about a 45-minute train ride from Osaka. I visited Nara Park, Tōdai-ji, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
Nara Park
Nara City
Other
Japan Travel: Day 8 - Explore Himeji Castle and Kobe
Today, I visited Himeji Castle and Kobe. The train ride from Osaka to Himeji took less than 50 minutes. After exploring Himeji, I decided to make a quick visit to Kobe just to try Kobe steak. The Kobe steak was pretty good!
Himeji
Kobe
Japan Travel: Day 9 - Hiroshima
Hiroshima
Miyajima
Japan Travel: Day 10 - Kyoto
Today, I took a visit to Kyoto. It is about a 15-minute train ride. I spent the whole day in Kyoto. I think you would need to spend about three days in Kyoto, because there are many places to see!
Japan Travel: Day 11 - Universal Studios Japan
Today was my last day in Osaka. I decided to visit Universal Studios Japan and spent the whole day there. Fun indeed!
Japan Travel: Day 12 - Return to Tokyo
Today, I returned to Tokyo from Osaka. When I arrived at my hotel in Tokyo, I visited Ueno Zoo, VenusFort, and the Oriental Bazaar
Ueno Zoo
Final thought
I loved my trip to Japan. I enjoyed visiting different places!
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