Planning your first trip to Japan and have two weeks to explore? You’re in for a treat! Having explored Japan extensively over the last decade, I’m excited to share my expert insights to help you craft the perfect Japan Travel Itinerary 14 Days.
Many itineraries rush you through the typical “Golden Route” of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, leading to a generic and often overcrowded experience. You might find yourself waiting in long lines just to capture the same photos as everyone else and leave feeling like you missed out on the real Japan.
I want your 14 days in Japan to be extraordinary. This itinerary is designed to help you experience Japan like a seasoned traveler, blending popular must-sees with unique, off-the-beaten-path gems. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that’s tailored to give you a deeper connection with this incredible country.
This japan travel itinerary 14 days balances must-see cities with a relaxed pace, considering travel times and offering insider tips to avoid crowds. Discover authentic cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and unique culinary delights, all while immersing yourself in Japan’s rich history and culture.
What to Expect from This 14 Day Japan Itinerary:
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Two Weeks in Japan Itinerary Overview
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Why This 14 Day Japan Itinerary is Perfect for You
My first two weeks in Japan back in 2014 completely captivated me, leading to countless return trips – often two to three times a year! Since 2017, I’ve specialized in crafting Japan itineraries, and this japan travel itinerary 14 days is built on years of personal experience and in-depth knowledge.
This practical loop itinerary includes:
- 5 nights in Tokyo
- 4 nights in Kyoto
- 2 nights in Hiroshima
- 3 nights in Osaka
This pacing, combined with day trip suggestions from each city, ensures you won’t feel rushed. You can easily finish your trip in Osaka or return to Tokyo for your departure.
Here’s what makes this japan travel itinerary 14 days stand out:
- Insider Knowledge: Having visited Japan repeatedly over many years, I’ve seen tourist trends evolve. I share lesser-known spots to help you move beyond the typical tourist trail and have a more unique japan travel itinerary 14 days.
- Beat the Crowds: Aware of overtourism in Japan, this itinerary focuses on strategies to avoid crowds and experience popular destinations more peacefully, allowing you to truly “blend in.”
- Relaxed Pace: Spending multiple nights in each location means less time packing and unpacking, and more flexibility for weather-dependent day trips.
- Authentic Experiences: I’ve included unique cultural activities and local interactions based on my personal recommendations to enrich your japan travel itinerary 14 days.
- Tried-and-Tested Accommodation: Benefit from my extensive experience with hotels in each city, with recommendations based on numerous stays.
Here are some highlights you can look forward to during your 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 planning to combine your trip with South Korea, don’t forget to check out my 10 day South Korea itinerary, which similarly balances popular and hidden gems.
Ready to begin your japan travel itinerary 14 days? Let’s dive in!
14 Day Japan Itinerary: Your Complete First-Timer’s Guide
For this itinerary, the famed Japan Rail Pass is not the most cost-effective option. Instead, purchasing individual tickets is recommended to save money. You can easily book these online in advance via SmartEx or Klook, at ticket machines in Japan, or in person at JR ticket offices.
Tip: For Tokyo travel, the Tokyo Subway Pass can offer better value than Suica (IC) Cards. For clarity on transport cards, see my guide to train symbols in Japan Google Maps to understand different transport options and choose the best one for your needs.
Day 0: Arrival & Transit to Tokyo
If possible, take an overnight flight to Tokyo so you can wake up ready to explore!
Getting to Tokyo from Haneda Airport
The Tokyo Monorail provides a quick 15-minute connection from Haneda Airport to Tokyo (Hamamatsuchō). From there, Asakusa is about 25 minutes further, while Shinjuku and Shibuya add another 30-40 minutes.
Tip: Your IC/Suica Card works on the monorail, simplifying your arrival.
Getting to Tokyo from Narita Airport
The Narita Express whisks you from Narita Airport to Tokyo in approximately 1 hour.
Tip: Consider the Airport Limousine Bus as a budget-friendly alternative to the Narita Express. Tickets can be booked in advance. Learn more about Narita Airport Limousine tickets.
Where to Stay in Tokyo
Having visited Tokyo countless times, I’ve experienced many hotels across the city. For first-timers, I recommend Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu in vibrant Shibuya or The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon in traditional Asakusa. For a comprehensive guide, including station access, nearby attractions, konbini locations, and detailed reviews, check out my guide on where to stay in Tokyo for first-time and repeat travellers. Also, find out why I don’t recommend Airbnb here.
Views from a few Tokyo hotels I’ve stayed in: 1&2) Asakusa ~ 3) Shidome ~ 4) Shinjuku ~ 5) Haneda Airport ~ 6) Shibuya
Tip: Luggage forwarding services like Yamato are available, but I advise against them for short trips as delivery can take 24 hours. Pack a small overnight bag for essentials.
Days 1 – 4: Exploring Tokyo
Tokyo is massive! Don’t underestimate its scale. As one of the world’s largest cities, its attractions are spread across diverse neighborhoods. Planning is key, but allow room for spontaneity to truly enjoy your japan travel itinerary 14 days. Avoid rushing through a checklist; savor each moment!
Top Things to Do in Tokyo
Tokyo offers endless possibilities. You could easily spend a day exploring each neighborhood. To help you plan your japan travel itinerary 14 days, focus on areas that match your interests. Map out your must-sees and group nearby attractions together. Combining two adjacent neighborhoods in a day is often feasible.
With over 20 Tokyo neighborhoods explored, detailing them all here would be too long! For personalized recommendations, check my in-depth Tokyo neighborhood guide and my detailed first time in Tokyo itinerary for more inspiration.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, these areas are excellent starting points for your japan travel itinerary 14 days:
Lantern of Senso-ji early morning
- Shimokitazawa & Sugamo: These are the “in” spots for 2025, offering local vibes and replacing the now overcrowded Harajuku. “Shimokita” is known for its independent boutiques and eateries, perfect for a younger, local experience. For old-world charm, swap Harajuku for Yanaka Ginza. Sugamo, known as “Grandma’s Harajuku,” is a hyper-local street filled with temples, traditional clothing, green tea, street food, and sweets.
- Ueno: Ueno Park and its surroundings are visually stunning, especially around the Moon Pine and the gold-decorated Ueno Toshogu Shrine. Explore Ameya Yokocho for souvenirs, street food, and local crafts. Don’t miss the delightful Nezu Shrine with its red torii tunnel and perfectly manicured azaleas.
- Minato: For iconic Tokyo Tower views! Zojo-ji Temple offers incredible close-up views of the tower. Hamarikyu Gardens, with its teahouse overlooking a pond and greenery, is a serene escape.
Places to visit in Tokyo: 1) Shimbashi is a lesser-known, smaller alternative to Shibuya & Shinjuku ~ 2) Pair Kanda with a visit to Asakusa ~ 3) Sugamo replaces Harajuku as a more local experience ~ 4) Nezu Shrine in Ueno ~ 5) Tokyo Tower by night
Tokyo Dining Recommendations
Shibuya is my favorite area for food in Tokyo. Han No Daidokoro (wagyu beef BBQ), Kirin City izakaya, and the diverse eateries around Shibuya’s Dōgenzaka area are all excellent.
I also recommend the Shibuya ramen tour (use code Invisible5 for a discount). It’s a fantastic way to sample 6 mini bowls with a local ramen expert (read my review here).
Tip: Choosing the right food tour in Tokyo can be overwhelming. My guide to the best food tours in Tokyo reviews multiple tours I’ve personally taken to help you decide.
Other dining adventures await in Shimokitazawa (crêpes), Azabujuban (brunch), Shin-Obuko (Korean food), Yanaka Ginza (traditional foods), Akihabara’s unique Maidreamin’ maid café, and Shinjuku’s Golden Gai/Kabukicho and Omoide Yokocho (though Omoide Yokocho is now very touristy; this Shinjuku foodie tour can help you find local spots). 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 guide to Japanese snacks details must-try snacks and where to find them.
Vegans and vegetarians might find dining in Japan challenging. Consider this Vegan Night Foodie Tour for a delicious solution.
Days 5 – 6: Tokyo Day Trips & Mt. Fuji
For days 5 and 6 of your japan travel itinerary 14 days, you have options: two day trips from Tokyo or an overnight trip to Fujinomiya for stunning Mt. Fuji views.
My full guide to underrated day trips from Tokyo offers even more unique ideas you might not have considered.
Option 1: Two Separate Day Trips
An uncrowded alternative to Hakone Shrine can be found in Izu Day trips from Tokyo: 1) Yokohama ~ 2) Kawagoe ~ 3) Kamakura ~ 4) Shuzenji Onsen instead of Hakone ~ 5) Fuji Five Lakes ~ 6) Nikko
Option 2: Overnight in Fujinomiya (Mt. Fuji)
For incredible, less crowded Mt. Fuji views, spend a night in Fujinomiya on the mountain’s western side. Most tourists rush past it on bullet trains, meaning fewer crowds and breathtaking scenery. The sunrise view from my room (below) is unforgettable!
While a day trip to Fujinomiya is possible with this Fujinomiya famous food tour (+ bullet train from Tokyo), an overnight stay maximizes your chances of clear views and a more relaxed experience. My guide to what to do in Fujinomiya has all the details for planning this unique Mt. Fuji experience during your japan travel itinerary 14 days.
Fujinomiya attractions: 1) Mt Fuji UNESCO World Heritage Centre ~ 2) Fuji yakisoba ~ 3) Sake tasting brewed with water from Mt Fuji ~ 4) Wakutamaike Pond ~ 5) Urai River ~ 6) Shiraito Falls ~ 7) Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine ~ Top: View from my room in Fujinomiya
Days 7 – 10: Kyoto – Ancient Capital & Cultural Heart
Days 7-10 of your japan travel itinerary 14 days are dedicated to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital for over 1,000 years. Home to over 2,000 temples and shrines, Kyoto deserves more than just a quick day trip!
Beyond the popular “Big 4” – Fushimi Inari Taisha, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and Kiyomizu-Dera – Kyoto offers so much more.
My 4-day Kyoto itinerary incorporates hidden gems in Kyoto and tips for visiting the “Big 4” at less crowded times, enriching your experience of this timeless city on your japan travel itinerary 14 days.
Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto
The Nozomi shinkansen from Tokyo Shinagawa Station to Kyoto takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes. This is covered by the Japan Rail Pass if you choose to purchase one for your trip.
Kyoto Accommodation
Having stayed in 4 hotels and ryokan in Kyoto, my top three recommendations are in the Gion district.
Tip: For detailed reviews and recommendations, see my guide on ryokan and hotels in Gion Kyoto for both first-time and repeat visitors.
View from my room at the Kyoto Granbell Hotel during a Japan winter trip
Kyoto Dining
Gion’s alleyways are full of charming small eateries. I often find great spots simply by searching Google Maps when hunger strikes! For a specific recommendation, try Manzara-Tei Pontochoen restaurant in Pontocho.
I enjoyed a Kyoto night tour that explored hidden bars in the Pontocho area, including sampling unique “rose sake” (read about it here). While Nishiki Market is popular, it can be very crowded.
Consider a cooking class for a hands-on cultural experience. I share my ramen-making experience here, and many classes combine traditional Kyoto cooking with tea ceremonies, some even offering kimono dress-up.
Pre-booking a small group tour can enhance your cultural understanding with a local guide:
Kyoto cultural experiences: 1&2) Ramen cooking class ~ 3) Bar hopping tour ~ 4) Dinner with a geisha ~ 5) Tea ceremony with a geisha
Kyoto Activities & Must-Sees
Tip: Grouping nearby attractions allows you to see these locations in a day. My detailed Kyoto itinerary provides complete details for your japan travel itinerary 14 days.
- Downtown Kyoto: Upon arrival, explore downtown Kyoto with its shotengai (shopping arcades), Kyoto Tower, and Sanjo Ohashi Bridge. Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine are best enjoyed in the late afternoon when day-trippers depart.
- Northern Kyoto: Start early at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove to avoid crowds (or visit the quieter bamboo groves of Kodai-ji). Explore overlooked spots in Arashiyama like Gio-ji Temple & Moss Gardens and Adashino Nembutsu-ji. Finish at Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) in the late afternoon for fewer crowds. However, consider Nijo Castle with its gold-leaf interior as a worthwhile alternative to Kinkaku-ji.
- Tip: Skip Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and take this Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking tour which includes secluded bamboo groves and avoids the Arashiyama crowds.
Top: 1) Yasaka Shrine at dusk ~ 2) Bamboo groves of Kodai-ji ~ 3) Gio-ji Moss Gardens ~ 4) View nearby Sanjo Ohashi ~ 5) Adashino Nenbutsu-ji ~ 6) Kinkaku-ji ~ BOTTOM: Switch Kinkaku-ji for Nijo Castle if you prefer to skip Arashiyama
- Eastern Kyoto: Visit 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), known for its exquisite gardens. Visit Okazaki-jinja shrine, dedicated to rabbits.
- Central Kyoto: Start early at Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka to see Yasaka Pagoda without crowds (note: the iconic cherry tree at Sannenzaka sadly fell in April 2024). Visit Yasaka Koshindo, and then Kiyomizu-dera (best early morning or late afternoon). Explore Shijo-dori for souvenirs, Kennin-ji with its dragon ceiling, and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in the late afternoon (or take the hidden hike).
Tip: Fushimi Inari is vast! Be prepared for extensive walking. For a less crowded experience without early mornings or late nights, this Fushimi Inari hidden hike with a local guide during the day is ideal. It also includes secret bamboo groves. Read my Fushimi Inari Shrine hike review for more.
Note: Some streets in Gion are restricted to tourists from April 1, 2024, due to geisha harassment. My guide to the Gion tourist ban provides essential information.
Kyoto is a must for a two week 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
Advance Kyoto Activity Tickets
Consider “Gear,” a unique non-verbal performance in Kyoto. It’s a captivating show with music, magic, and choreography.
I also highly recommend my traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto with a geisha for a deeper cultural experience. Other Kyoto experiences include:
Uji is a lovely day trip from Kyoto for fellow tea lovers
Days 10 – 12: Hiroshima – History & Resilience
Hiroshima is a must-visit on any japan travel itinerary 14 days. Its history and resilience are deeply moving. As a history enthusiast, I was profoundly impacted by learning about the survivors’ stories and witnessing the city’s remarkable recovery from the 1945 atomic bombing.
Beyond its history, Hiroshima is a beautiful city in southern Japan, worth exploring for more than just the Peace Park.
Kyoto to Hiroshima Travel
The shinkansen from Kyoto Station to Hiroshima takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. This is also covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
Hiroshima Hotels
Hiroshima hotels offer great value. I’ve stayed in 3 and recommend them all.
For more options, find alternative hotels in Central Hiroshima here.
Tip: At the Royal RIHGA Hotel, request a corner room for a breathtaking 180° city view:
View from RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima
Hiroshima Dining
Hon-dori street offers many dining choices. Try local okonomiyaki (savory pancake) at Okonomimura, a building with multiple okonomiyaki restaurants. Each restaurant has its unique take on this dish.
I also enjoyed Japan’s famous soufflé pancakes at Happy Pancake (without any wait!).
For hidden eateries and drinking spots, consider a Hiroshima bar hopping tour or a best of Hiroshima foodie tour. Or, take a “Sake Town” tour in Saijo for a cultural and culinary experience.
Hiroshima-style Okonmiyaki in Okonomimura
Hiroshima Must-See Attractions
Tip: My complete meaningful and fun things to do in Hiroshima guide offers more details for your japan travel itinerary 14 days.
- Stroll, shop, and dine along Hondori Arcade. Find unique souvenirs here.
- Reflect at the A-Bomb Dome (UNESCO World Heritage site), see paper cranes at the Children’s Peace Monument, and find Jizoson with its nuclear shadow.
- See the Peace Arch en route to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. The museum displays artifacts that survived the blast, providing a powerful understanding of nuclear weapons.
- The Peace Flame will burn until all nuclear weapons are gone. Nearby, find surviving Phoenix Trees, charred but still standing.
- Visit the National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims to learn about water symbolism in Hiroshima’s monuments, survivor stories, and see a soil sample showing debris from before and after the bombing.
Hiroshima highlights: 1) Hondori ~ 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 Add lesser-known Onomichi to your two week Japan itinerary
Optional Day Trip: Miyajima (Itsukushima Shrine)
Extend your Hiroshima portion of your japan travel itinerary 14 days with a day trip to Itsukushima Shrine (Miyajima), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Dating back to the 13th century, it’s famous for its giant floating torii gate and offers much more to explore.
- Getting there: Aquanet Ferry from Hiroshima Peace Park to Miyajima island (approx. 45 minutes).
- Cost: Roundtrip is JPY 4,000 (not included in JR Pass).
My detailed guide for your Hiroshima to Miyajima day trip provides ferry options, JR Pass info, and what not to miss.
Tip: Check the tide information to see the Grand Torii at high or low tide. High tide makes it appear to float; low tide allows you to walk beneath it.
Things to do in Miyajima: 1,2,3) Daisho-in Temple ~ 4) See the 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
Osaka, known as the “Kitchen of Japan,” is a sensory feast! Prepare for delicious street food, vibrant shopping, and dazzling neon lights during your japan travel itinerary 14 days.
Osaka was historically a merchant city, so remember to stand on the RIGHT side of escalators, unlike Tokyo and most of Japan.
Hiroshima to Osaka Travel
Travel from Hiroshima to Osaka takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes via shinkansen. Again, the Japan Rail Pass covers this if you have one.
Osaka Accommodation
Honestly, unless you plan to visit Universal Studios Japan, you could consider Osaka as a day trip from Kyoto. However, if you are staying, I recommend:
For more Osaka hotel options, find alternative hotels in Chuo Ward, Osaka here.
Dotonbori Billboards Osaka Japan
Osaka Dining
Osaka is world-famous for street food! Don’t miss Kuromon Ichiba Market. For a unique experience, try fishing for your dinner at Zauo Restaurant.
To avoid Dotonbori crowds, explore Shinsekai for street food with a local guide. This retro neighborhood, largely untouched by war, retains original 1930s architecture.
Read my review of the best Osaka street food according to locals or book foodie tours with local experts:
Omelette and Sushi on a Shinsekai Osaka street food tour
Osaka Activities & Attractions
Tip: You can see most of Osaka’s highlights in 2 days, leaving day 14 for a day trip. My in-depth Osaka itinerary provides more details for your japan travel itinerary 14 days.
- See the iconic Glico Man sign in Dotonbori, admire artistic drain covers, and explore meticulously arranged shops.
- Visit Osaka Castle Museum, enjoy 360° city views from the observation deck, and stroll the grounds. In February, the plum and peach grove offers a less crowded alternative to cherry blossoms. Don’t miss the Time Capsule to be opened in the year 5000!
- Immerse yourself in the foodie scene at Shinsaibashi-suji Arcade and Kuromon Ichiba Market.
- Discover Hozen-ji Yokocho, a hidden gem with the mossy Mizukake Fudo statue.
- Visit the giant lion’s head at Namba Shrine.
- In the late afternoon, explore retro Shinsekai or America-mura neighborhoods. Shinsekai, dating from the 1930s, was designed to showcase European architecture to Japan.
Things to do in Osaka: 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 Day Trip: Nara – Deer & Temples
A Nara day trip from Osaka or Kyoto is highly recommended during your japan travel itinerary 14 days. Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital in 710 AD, is historically significant and deeply influenced by Buddhism.
Deer, considered messengers of gods, roam freely in Nara Park. The city has a unique spiritual atmosphere, especially beautiful during the late afternoon “golden hour.”
- Kyoto Station to Nara: 35 minutes via limited express Kintetsu train to Kintestu Nara Station (closer to Nara Deer Park) or 45 minutes to JR Nara Station.
- Osaka Namba Station to Nara: 50 minutes via limited express Kintetsu train to Kintestu Nara Station, or 45 minutes to JR Nara Station.
- Tip: On the Kintestu line, you might need to pay a Limited Express surcharge on board if using a Suica card.
Visit Nara during your two weeks Japan itinerary
Top Things to Do in Nara
Tip: My detailed Nara one day itinerary from Osaka or Kyoto covers these locations and more for your japan travel itinerary 14 days, including travel tips.
- Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO site and world’s largest wooden structure. See the giant bronze Buddha and try to fit through the pillar hole for good luck!
- Yoshiki-en Gardens, breathtaking moss and leafy gardens.
- Sarusawa Pond Park & Ukimido Pond for scenic views with historic structures.
- Naramachi old town and its Naramachi Museum.
- Todai-ji Nigatsu-do for panoramic Nara views, especially at sunset.
- Kasuga-Taisha Shrine, famous for 3,000 lanterns and winter fire festival.
- Kofuku-ji, family temple of the Fujiwara clan with ancient structures.
Tip: For more day trip options beyond Universal Studios, see my guide to day trips from Kyoto or Osaka (including Uji, Himeji, Kobe, and alternatives to crowded spots) for your japan travel itinerary 14 days.
Things to do in Nara: 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
For your japan travel itinerary 14 days, I highly recommend returning to Tokyo at least one day before your flight home as a buffer for unforeseen delays (Japan can experience natural disasters). Factor in extra time for potential shinkansen delays due to weather.
Upon returning to Tokyo from Osaka or Kyoto, spend the day revisiting a favorite neighborhood, exploring a new one from my Tokyo neighborhood guide, or visiting museums like teamLab Borderless or Planets.
teamLab Borderless, Tokyo
Travel from Kyoto or Osaka back to Tokyo
The shinkansen from Osaka Station to Tokyo takes about 2 hours 40 minutes, and from Kyoto Station, it’s around 2 hours 10 minutes. The Japan Rail Pass covers this.
Tokyo Accommodation (Return)
Consider staying in a different Tokyo neighborhood for your final night. Park Hotel Tokyo in Minato offers Tokyo Tower views, or The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon Asakusa has Senso-ji views.
Tokyo Tower from Park Hotel Tokyo at Night
Day 15: Departure
Head to Haneda or Narita Airport for your flight home, filled with memories of your incredible japan travel itinerary 14 days!
Getting back to Haneda Airport from Tokyo
Tokyo (Hamamatsuchō) to Haneda Airport via Tokyo Monorail (15 minutes).
Getting back to Narita Airport from Tokyo
Narita Airport to Tokyo via Narita Express (approx. 1 hour).
The Narita Airport Limousine Bus is also an option. Book Narita Airport Limousine tickets here.
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Tokyo Tower from Aircraft Arriving at Haneda Airport
14 Days in Japan Budget: Estimated Costs
To help you plan your japan travel itinerary 14 days budget, here’s an estimated cost for two adults on a mid-range budget (excluding flights and spending money). Remember, this is an estimate, and your actual costs may vary.
Estimated 14 Day Japan Cost for Two Adults
- Flights: Highly variable. From Sydney, Australia, a good deal for direct flights to Tokyo is around AUD 1,500 or less. Prices have increased since Japan’s reopening in October 2022.
- Hotels: Approximately USD 2,200 / JPY 344,000 (for 3-4 star, twin share accommodations).
- Long Distance Trains: Approximately USD 950 / JPY 148,600 (including Nozomi shinkansen, express train to Hakone, Miyajima ferry, etc.).
- Total for 2 adults, 14 days (excluding flights & spending money): Approximately USD 3,150 (depending on exchange rates).
Spending Money: I typically budget around USD 300-400 per week for personal expenses, including Suica card top-ups, temple entries, convenience store meals, and small souvenirs. You can adjust this based on your spending habits.
Key Considerations for Your 14 Day Japan Itinerary
Japan’s Busy Travel Periods & Public Holidays
Book accommodation well in advance, especially if your japan travel itinerary 14 days falls during peak seasons. Some accommodations only show availability 3-6 months ahead.
- New Year’s (late Dec – early Jan): Expect closures and crowded trains as people travel home. ATMs may be unavailable Jan 1-3.
- Cherry Blossom Season (late March – mid-April): Very popular. Book far in advance. See my spring in Japan guide for best viewing times. Consider spring flowers besides cherry blossoms to avoid crowds.
- Golden Week (late April – early May): Japan’s busiest travel period. Expect crowds. Holidays run from April 29 to May 5.
- Osaka Expo 2025 (April 13 – Oct 13, 2025): Located near USJ. Expect crowds near the expo site.
- 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
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura
Helpful Resources for Your 14 Day Japan Trip
Here’s a summary of useful resources to aid your japan travel itinerary 14 days planning:
Final Thoughts on Your 14 Day Japan Itinerary
This japan travel itinerary 14 days offers an efficient loop to experience Japan’s highlights and hidden gems without feeling rushed. While it covers a lot, careful planning allows for a relaxed pace and deeper exploration.
Remember, you don’t need to return to Tokyo if flying out of Osaka is more convenient. However, flights from Tokyo can sometimes be more affordable, even factoring in the shinkansen back from Osaka.
Nozomi Shinkansen
Explore More Japan Guides
How is your japan travel itinerary 14 days planning going? Do you have any questions or thoughts about this itinerary? Share them in the comments below!
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Until next time,
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2 Week Japan Itinerary for First Timers: Complete 14 Day Guide
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