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Japan itinerary

Sample

Japan in 21 days

Sample copy. A 21-day route through Tokyo, Nikko, Matsushima, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka, paced relaxed and planned so every travel day is worth it.

Quiet lane with traditional wooden shopfronts in Japan

Overview

Sample copy. This 21-day itinerary links Tokyo, Nikko, Matsushima, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka. It is designed for active travellers who like full days and comfortable nights, and it works as written or as a starting point for our specialists.

Map with compass and hand-drawn route notes

Day by day

The day-by-day plan below shows where you sleep, what each day holds and how long each transfer takes.

  1. Days 1-4

    Tokyo

    Four days to know the capital properly, with a day trip to Kamakura.

    Stay The Ginza Lantern, Tokyo

    Travel Airport express, about 40 minutes

  2. Days 5-6

    Nikko

    An overnight among the shrines and waterfalls once the day-trippers leave.

    Stay Ryokan in Nikko

    Travel Limited express, about 2 hours

  3. Days 7-8

    Matsushima

    Pine-covered islands by boat and the temples of Hiraizumi.

    Stay Seaside inn, Matsushima

    Travel Shinkansen to Sendai, about 2 hours 30 minutes

  4. Days 9-11

    Takayama

    Alpine old town, morning markets and Shirakawa-go.

    Stay Ryokan in Takayama

    Travel Train via Nagoya, about 5 hours

  5. Days 12-13

    Kanazawa

    Kenrokuen, one of the three great gardens, and the geisha district of Higashi Chaya.

    Stay Machiya townhouse, Kanazawa

    Travel Bus over the hills, about 1 hour 15 minutes

  6. Days 14-17

    Kyoto

    The classical heart of Japan at a proper pace, with Nara as a half-day.

    Stay Kyo no Yado, Kyoto

    Travel Limited express, about 2 hours 15 minutes

  7. Days 18-19

    Hiroshima and Miyajima

    The Peace Memorial and an evening on Miyajima when the torii is lit.

    Stay Ryokan on Miyajima

    Travel Shinkansen, about 1 hour 40 minutes

  8. Days 20-21

    Osaka

    A final feast in the kitchen of Japan before flying home.

    Stay Hotel in Osaka

    Travel Shinkansen, about 1 hour 30 minutes

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How to book

Sample copy. Our specialists book this itinerary complete with hotels, rail or car hire and experiences. Speak to a specialist below and we will tailor it to your dates.

Questions

Can this itinerary be tailored?

Sample answer. Yes. Every itinerary is a starting point; our specialists adjust the route, the hotels and the pace to suit you.

What is included in the budget?

Sample answer. The budget covers accommodation, ground transport and the named experiences, but not international flights.

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