2 week Japan Itinerary: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & Must-See Day Trips

Dreaming of cherry blossoms, neon cityscapes, and peaceful temples?

I just got back from my first solo trip to Japan, and let me tell you—it was everything and more! I spent 2 weeks (14 nights) in Japan from late February to early March, following the classic Tokyo–Osaka–Kyoto route + a few day trips along the way.

To be honest, I was a little skeptical about visiting Japan at first. With so many people going lately, I wondered if it might feel overhyped. But WOW —Japan blew me away. The country is clean, efficient, insanely safe, and so easy to navigate—even as a solo female traveler on a budget.

What really sealed the deal for me? The abundance of clean and free public bathrooms, convenience stores on every block, and a sea of vending machines that saved me more than once. I found it way more budget-friendly than Europe, and I’m officially obsessed.

Worried about the language barrier in Japan? Don’t be. In popular spots, most places have English menus, helpful diagrams, and friendly staff who’ll go out of their way to help. Japan knows how to host tourists—especially first-timers.

So if you’re planning your first two weeks in Japan and want a balance of culture, food, nature, and city vibes, here’s exactly how I spent 2 weeks in Japan!

P.S. This post contains affiliate links. If you use my links to make a purchase, I’ll get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

3 days in Tokyo: Plum Blossoms & Mt. Fuji Views

Although I technically spent 3 nights in Tokyo, I only had one full evening and a morning to explore before heading off to Hakone. But even in that short time, Tokyo made a big impression—and don’t worry, I circled back and ended the trip with 2 more nights in the city.

Arriving in Tokyo — With a Bonus Mt. Fuji Sighting

I landed in the late afternoon and got super lucky with the weather—it was clear enough to see Mount Fuji from the airplane window! That view alone had me buzzing with excitement. I was so inspired that I immediately booked a day trip to Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi through Klook for the next morning.

It turned out to be one of the highlights of my trip—peaceful lakes, snow-capped peaks, and iconic views of Japan’s most sacred mountain. You can read my full review here, but long story short: I highly recommend it, especially if you’re short on time but still want to experience Japan’s natural beauty.

🕗 Tour Duration: ~8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
🎟️ Tip: Book your Fuji tour when you arrive to see how the weather is! There are tons of options, so it shouldn’t be a problem getting a spot, but if you’re in a big group then maybe book in advance.

🌸 Tokyo Evening & Morning Highlights

After returning from Mt. Fuji, I spent the evening wandering Tokyo’s vibrant neighborhoods. Here’s a quick look at what I squeezed in:

• Yushima Tenjin Shrine – Famous for its plum blossoms in late February; it’s a peaceful, less crowded alternative to cherry blossom spots.
• Nezu Shrine – A hidden gem with beautiful red torii gates and a serene, mossy garden vibe.
• Jimbocho – Book-lover heaven! This historic neighborhood is full of used bookstores, vintage magazines, and cute cafes.
• Tokyo Character Street – Underground shopping paradise for fans of Ghibli, Pokémon, Hello Kitty, and all things kawaii.
• Convenience store dinner (yes, again)—budget Japan truly delivers!

🛏️ Where I Stayed in Tokyo: Guesthouse Toco

I stayed at the charming Guesthouse toco, a 100-year-old traditional Japanese house turned hostel.

• The house features a cozy bar, a serene Japanese garden, and creaky wooden hallways that add to the charm.
• Mornings start with the smell of breakfast and the soft sounds of someone cooking nearby.
• It’s not a luxury stay, but it’s warm, welcoming, and full of character.

Perfect for: Solo travelers, backpackers, or anyone looking for a more traditional and local experience in Tokyo. It is further out of the city but easily accessible by metro.

✨ Note: I didn’t have time to see everything I wanted during my first pass through Tokyo, so I made sure to come back at the end of my trip and spend more time exploring—stay tuned for part two of my Tokyo adventures!

📖 More details? Check out my full guide:
👉14 Hidden Gems Tokyo: Unique & Off-the-Beaten-Path Places to Visit

2 Days in Hakone: Hot Springs, Fuji Views & Mountain Magic

After a few fast-paced days in Tokyo, I hopped on a train and headed to the mountains for a peaceful change of scenery. I took the Odakyu Railway’s Romancecar from Shinjuku Station—famous for its panoramic windows and direct route to Hakone. While it was nice, honestly? A local express train would’ve been just fine and a lot cheaper. So if you’re watching your budget, skip the upgrade!

🗻 Why Visit Hakone?

Tucked away in Kanagawa Prefecture, Hakone is the perfect escape from Tokyo—easy to reach, but it feels like a totally different world. Think misty mountain air, traditional hot springs, cable cars gliding over steaming volcanic valleys, and peaceful lake views with (fingers crossed!) Mount Fuji in the background.

I only stayed one night in Hakone, but it turned out to be one of my favorite moments of the trip. It’s a doable day trip, sure—but spending the night gives you the chance to slow down and soak in the atmosphere (literally).

Top Things to Do in Hakone

• ♨️ Relax in a Traditional Onsen
  • Whether you splurge on a ryokan or find a simple public bathhouse, soaking in a hot spring is a must. Not into sharing your soak? Many places offer private baths you can book by the hour.
• 🚠 Ride the Hakone Loop
  • Hakone’s transportation circuit is half the fun—you’ll ride trains, cable cars, ropeways, and even a pirate ship cruise across Lake Ashi. Each segment offers a different slice of scenery, from lush forests to volcanic steam vents. On a clear day, you’ll even get those postcard-worthy views of Mount Fuji.
• 🥚 Eat the Famous Black Eggs
  • At Owakudani, a geothermal valley filled with sulfur vents, you can try black eggs (kuro-tamago) boiled in the hot springs. Legend says eating one adds seven years to your life!

Tip: If you’re doing the full loop, buy the Hakone Free Pass 2 Days—it includes all major transport options and discounts to attractions. It’ll definitely save you a lot of money with just the bus rides alone!

Where I stayed at in Hakone: Onsen Guest House Tsutaya (Budget-Friendly)
Why You’ll Love It:

• Free Wi-Fi and luggage storage; very close to local buses
• Cozy guest house with affordable dorms and private rooms, all with air-conditioning and mountain views
• Shared kitchen and common area—great for meeting fellow travelers or cooking your own meals
• In-house onsen and open-air baths—no need to leave the guest house for a soak

Check out my full blog post for more information:
👉 The Best Tokyo Day Trip: Hakone’s Hot Springs, Fuji Views & Mountain Magic

3 Days in Osaka: Street Food, Sky Views & Retro Vibes

After lingering a little longer exploring Hakone (worth it!), I arrived in Osaka around 3 PM—just enough time to drop off my bags and dive straight into the city streets.

Known as Japan’s kitchen, Osaka is a foodie’s dream, and it quickly became one of my favorite cities on this trip.

I stayed in Shinsekai, a nostalgic neighborhood filled with neon lights and retro charm, at the super friendly PAX Hostel—a perfect base for exploring both the old-school side of Osaka and its buzzy central districts.

🍜 First Impressions: Dotonbori, Shinsaibashi & Shinsekai

My first afternoon was all about exploring the main Osaka highlights:

• Dotonbori – This is where Osaka really comes alive! Giant animatronic crabs, glowing neon signs, and takoyaki stalls on every corner.
• Shinsaibashi – A massive shopping street packed with trendy boutiques, quirky stores, and side alleys full of surprises.
• Shinsekai – A throwback to 20th-century Osaka with old-school charm, street food vendors, and Tsutenkaku Tower looming overhead. This is also where I stayed—super walkable and full of character.

🍡 Osaka Food Highlights: Where (& What) to Eat

Food is reason enough to visit Osaka. It’s cheaper than Tokyo or Kyoto, and the variety is endless:

• Takimikoji Retro Food Street – Located under Umeda Sky Building, this underground alleyway is themed like Showa-era Japan. Don’t miss the warabi mochi stand—hands down one of the best desserts I had in all of Japan.
• Osaka Kizu Market – Less touristy than Kuromon, this market is perfect for early-morning eats and a peek at local food culture.
• Kuromon Ichiba Market – Fresh seafood, wagyu skewers, matcha snacks… you could graze your way through an entire afternoon.

🐠 Whale Sharks & Skyline Views

With one full day in Osaka, I kept it chill but exciting:

• Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan) – One of the largest aquariums in the world and home to whale sharks. Yes, whale sharks! It’s immersive, massive, and a fun break from temples and street wandering.
• Umeda Sky Building – I finished the evening at the Floating Garden Observatory, watching the city light up from above. The views are unreal and totally worth the trip across town – pair it with the Takimikoji Food street.

📍 Getting around: I loved how walkable Osaka’s main areas are. I only needed the metro to reach the aquarium and Umeda Sky Tower—the rest was all on foot!

📖 More details? Check out my full guide:
👉 12 Places to Visit in Osaka: A First-Timer’s Guide to Japan’s Most Fun City

2 Days in Koyasan: A Mystical Mountain Escape & Temple Stay Experience

After exploring the lively streets of Osaka, I traded neon lights for lantern-lit paths and mountain mist in Koyasan (Mount Koya)—and it turned out to be one of the most magical, peaceful, and memorable stops on my Japan trip.

Hidden deep in the forests of Wakayama Prefecture, Koyasan is the spiritual heart of Shingon Buddhism, a sacred sanctuary founded in 819 by the monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi). With over 100 monasteries and temples nestled into this mountaintop town, it feels like stepping into another world—one where time slows down and reverence fills the air.

🛏️ Overnight at a Shukubo: Temple Lodging with a Spiritual Twist

Staying in a shukubo (a Buddhist temple lodging) was something I’ll never forget. More than 50 temples in Koyasan welcome guests, offering a rare chance to immerse yourself in monastic life—without sacrificing comfort.

I stayed at Koyasan Shukubo Hojoin, a more affordable temple stay that still felt truly special. The highlight? The food!

Dinner and breakfast were stunningly prepared shojin ryori (traditional vegetarian temple cuisine), crafted by the temple’s amazing 80-year-old chef. Each dish was thoughtfully plated, nourishing, and surprisingly delicious.

⏳ Quick tips for a temple stay:

• Rooms vary from super simple tatami spaces to almost luxury ryokan-style stays.
• Most include two meals (dinner and breakfast), and some offer private baths or onsens.
• Make sure to book well in advance—temple stays fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons.
• It’s more of a spiritual experience than a sightseeing stop, so come with an open mind and a calm pace.

Things to do in Koyasan

• 🌅 Morning Meditation & Monastic Life
  • Most temple stays offer a morning meditation or prayer service, and I highly recommend attending—even just as an observer. It’s peaceful, grounding, and gives you insight into the rhythm of life in a Buddhist monastery.
• Okunoin (奥の院)—Japan’s most sacred cemetery and the resting place of Kobo Daishi.
  • But this isn’t just any cemetery—according to legend, Kobo Daishi is still in eternal meditation, offering spiritual guidance to those who seek it. Over 200,000 tombstones—from monks to feudal lords to modern corporations—line the mossy paths, all hoping to be close to his energy.

• ✨ Okunoin Cemetery at Night
  • Walking through Okunoin at night under dim lanterns, with mist hanging in the air and towering cedar trees above, was an experience I’ll never forget. It’s quiet, humbling, and surreal—like stepping into a sacred dream.

• 🦊 Kiyotaka Inari Shrine
  • On my walk toward Ichinohashi Bridge, I stumbled upon the small but enchanting Kiyotaka Inari Shrine. A tunnel of red torii gates framed by fog and tall cedar trees made it feel like something out of a Studio Ghibli movie. It’s off the main trail, but if you have time—don’t miss it.

Leaving Koyasan
Around noon the next day, I said goodbye to the misty mountains and caught the train back to Osaka for one more night before heading to Kyoto.

📖 More details? Check out my full guide:
👉 Koyasan Travel Guide: Best Things to Do & How to Stay at a Buddhist Temple in Japan

1 Night in Osaka: Plum Blossoms, Castle Views & Bookstore Dreams

After a peaceful overnight stay in Koyasan, I returned to Osaka for one more night—this time to slow down, soak in the city’s spring beauty, and see a different side of this dynamic destination.

🌸 Osaka Castle & Plum Blossoms

My timing couldn’t have been better. I visited Osaka Castle (Osaka-jo) just as the plum blossoms were in bloom, and it was absolutely stunning. While most visitors come for the cherry blossoms later in spring, plum season is just as magical—and with far fewer crowds.

The Nishinomaru Garden, located on the west side of the castle grounds, is the perfect place to relax under the trees. Whether you’re picnicking, people-watching, or just enjoying the fresh air, it’s a peaceful contrast to the bustling city beyond the stone walls.

While the interior of the castle is more of a museum (with exhibits detailing its role in Japanese history), I found that the real highlight was exploring the castle grounds.

🏙️ Wandering Osaka: City Streets & Local Vibes

With no big plans this time around, I spent the rest of the day wandering the streets of Osaka. From quirky shops and quiet alleyways to local bakeries and vibrant neighborhoods, it was the perfect way to wind down after a fast-paced week.

📖 Where I Stayed: Book and Bed Shinsaibashi

If you’re a book lover or just looking for a unique stay in Japan, I highly recommend Book and Bed Shinsaibashi. It’s a modern capsule-style bookstore hostel, where you sleep surrounded by bookshelves. Cozy nooks, stylish design, and a relaxed, artsy vibe make it perfect for solo travelers or anyone who appreciates quiet charm.

🛏️ [Read my full review here]

5 Days in Kyoto: Day Trips, Red Gates & Ramen Streets 🍜⛩️

Kyoto was supposed to be my “take it slow” stop—a breather between the buzz of Tokyo and Osaka. But in true travel addict fashion, I turned it into a base for three big day trips (Uji + Nara, Ine fishing village, and Arashiyama). Totally worth it… but oof. That left me with just a day and a half to explore Kyoto.

Still, even in a crunch, Kyoto worked its magic. The quiet backstreets, the glow of lantern-lit alleys, and the early morning serenity of Fushimi Inari reminded me why this city is a must on any first-time Japan itinerary.

Kyoto in a Day: A Rushed but Memorable Visit

If you’re short on time in Kyoto, here’s how to make the most of one full day in the city:

• ⛩️ Hike Fushimi Inari Taisha at Sunrise
  • Start your day at 7 a.m. with a peaceful solo hike up Fushimi Inari’s iconic thousands of red torii gates. It’s one of the few spots that feels just as magical as you imagine—especially if you go early before the crowds roll in. It was one of my favorite moments of the entire trip.
• 🌆 Kyoto Station Skyway: Cyberpunk Vibes
  • After the calm of the mountainside, head to Kyoto Station’s Skyway Walk. It’s free, futuristic, and surprisingly empty. You’ll get sweeping views of the city and a totally different perspective—Kyoto as a modern hub, not just a historical gem.
• 🍜 Kyoto Ramen Koji: Noodle Heaven
  • Right inside Kyoto Station, Ramen Street (Kyoto Ramen Koji) is a must for foodies. It features mini outposts from top ramen regions around Japan—perfect if you can’t travel the entire country for the broth of your dreams.
• 🍡 Nishiki Market: Kyoto’s Kitchen
  • Bustling market street packed with local specialties—grilled mochi skewers, matcha treats, pickled vegetables, and all sorts of fun street food. Go hungry and take your time. It’s touristy, yes, but delicious.
• 🚶 Scenic Walks: Shirakawa Canal & Kamo River
  • After lunch, I strolled along the Shirakawa Canal, one of Kyoto’s most beautiful streets lined with willow trees and traditional wooden teahouses. Then I followed the Kamo River, watching locals bike, jog, and picnic along its grassy banks. These quiet moments were honestly the best part of the day.
• 🌿 Kodaiji Temple & Bamboo Grove
  • If you’re feeling “templed out,” skip the biggest ones and head to Kodaiji Temple, tucked away near the historic Higashiyama area. It has a mini bamboo grove, tranquil gardens, and fewer crowds than its more famous neighbors. Peaceful, elegant, and totally worth it.
• 🏘️ Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka: Kyoto’s Prettiest Streets
  • Finish your day wandering the charming lanes of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. These pedestrian-only slopes are full of little shops, matcha cafés, and traditional buildings. It’s exactly the Kyoto you picture in your head—and yes, it’s that pretty in real life too.

🛏️ Where I Stayed in Kyoto

Kyoto Piece Hostel was my budget-friendly base. Clean, modern, and well-located with a great common area for meeting other travelers. Perfect for solo travelers or anyone looking for affordable comfort.

If you have the time, Kyoto deserves at least a few slow days. But even on a tight schedule, it’s possible to soak up its magic—just lace up your walking shoes and go with the flow.

📖 More details? Check out my full guide:
👉 Kyoto in a Day: Fushimi Inari Hike, Markets & Hidden Gems

🌿 Arashiyama Travel Guide: Best Stops for a One-Day Visit

📍 How to get to Arashiyama from Kyoto

From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (about 15 minutes). Everything is walkable from there—just wear comfy shoes!

Arashiyama is proof that day trips can be more than just filler. With a mix of history, nature, and personality, this little district captured my heart in one whirlwind day. Highly recommend taking your time here—you won’t regret it.

• 🌱 Gioji Temple – Kyoto’s Most Peaceful Moss Garden
  • A tiny temple tucked in a forest clearing, Gioji feels like stepping into a Studio Ghibli scene. The moss carpet glows emerald under dappled sunlight, and the quiet here is almost sacred. Small but stunning—and a perfect peaceful start to your day.
• 🏘️ Saga Toriimoto Preserved Street – Time Travel in Kyoto
  • This charming, preserved street lined with traditional wooden houses and tea shops makes you feel like you’ve stepped centuries back in time. It’s not as crowded as central Arashiyama, and the walk itself is half the experience.
• 😄 Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple – 1,200 Quirky Stone Statues
  • One of the most whimsical places I’ve ever visited. This offbeat temple is filled with hundreds of hand-carved stone statues, each with its own personality—smiling, laughing, dancing, and even holding musical instruments. If temples aren’t your thing, this one will change your mind.
• 🐒 Monkey Park Iwatayama – Wild Monkeys & City Views
  • A bit of a climb, but totally worth it. At the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views over Kyoto and a group of wild macaques that roam freely around the hilltop. Bonus: you can feed them (from inside a caged hut—you’re the one in the cage!).
• 🧘‍♂️ Tenryu-ji Temple – Zen Gardens & Tranquility
  • One of the more well-known temples in Arashiyama, and for good reason. The UNESCO-listed Zen garden is gorgeous, and the mountain backdrop adds a cinematic touch. I breezed through this one quicker than others, but it’s still worth seeing.
• 🎋 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – Iconic, But Go Late or Early
  • Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it gets packed. But walking through the towering stalks of bamboo still feels magical—especially if you go early morning or late afternoon. The filtered light through the bamboo creates a surreal atmosphere that photos can’t fully capture.
• 🌄 Arashiyama Park Viewpoint – A Quiet Overlook
  • After all the walking, take a break here. This small viewpoint overlooks the Katsura River and surrounding mountains and is a great spot for a peaceful moment before heading out.
• ✨ Kimono Forest – A Soft Glow to End the Day
  • As the sun sets, stop by the Kimono Forest outside Arashiyama Station. It’s not a real forest, but rather a glowing walkway of kimono-patterned cylinders. It’s such a lovely, unexpected finale to your day.

📖 More details? Check out my full guide:
👉 Perfect Arashiyama Day Trip from Kyoto: Bamboo Grove, Monkeys & Temples

🍵🦌🔥 Day Trip from Kyoto: Matcha Mornings in Uji & Deer-Filled Evenings in Nara

Trying to pack two destinations into one day sounds ambitious—and it is—but my Uji and Nara combo day trip turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my entire Japan itinerary. From sipping the freshest matcha in Japan to standing beneath a towering bronze Buddha (and dodging overly eager deer), this day was a perfect blend of calm mornings and fiery tradition-filled evenings.

Morning in Uji – The Birthplace of Matcha

If you’re a matcha lover (or even just matcha-curious), Uji is an absolute must. This small riverside town south of Kyoto is the spiritual and literal home of matcha in Japan—and during the recent global matcha shortage, Uji’s local producers became even more sought after for their purity and quality.

📍 Byodoin Temple – A National Treasure (and the One on the ¥10 Coin)

Start your morning at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its stunning Phoenix Hall rising above a reflective pond. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and gives real-life context to the ¥10 coin you’ve probably got rattling around in your bag.

🍵 Matcha Heaven – The Best Tea Shops in Uji

After the temple, stroll down Byodoin Omotesando, a charming street filled with tea shops offering tastings, matcha soft serve, and more. A few favorites:

• Itohkyuemon – Their matcha parfait is a work of art.
• Nakamura Tokichi – Famous for matcha soba and matcha jelly desserts.
• Tsuen Tea – One of the oldest tea houses in Japan, still family-run after 850+ years!
• Hoho Hojicha – Specializes in roasted green tea (hojicha), which has a comforting, nutty flavor.
• Matsusakaya (松阪屋嘉八 本店) – Family-owned for over 180 years! The sweet old owner gave me a matcha sample a total gem.
  
  

Afternoon in Nara – Friendly Deer, Giant Buddhas & Fiery Traditions

Hop on a quick train from Uji to Nara, where the vibe shifts entirely. Here, tradition takes a more animated form—in the shape of hungry deer that roam freely through Nara Park, bowing politely… right before they headbutt you for a cracker.

• 🦌 Nara Deer Park – Cute and Chaotic
  • Let’s be real: the deer are adorable, but they can get aggressive when they know you’ve got those rice crackers.
    • Expect some chasing, gentle bites, and a headbutts.
  • Pro tip: the further you wander toward the shrines, the calmer the deer tend to be.
• 🛕 Tōdai-ji Temple – Home of the Great Buddha
  • One of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, Tōdai-ji houses a massive 15-meter bronze Buddha inside one of the largest wooden structures in the world.
• ⛩ Kasuga Taisha Shrine – Lanterns, Forest Paths & Timeless Tranquility
  • A peaceful walk through the forest leads to this centuries-old Shinto shrine, known for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns. If you’ve felt overwhelmed by crowds, this is the place to reset and reflect.

🔥 Omizutori Fire Festival – Ancient Flames of Purification (March Only)

If you’re visiting in March, don’t miss this 1,270-year-old Buddhist fire ceremony at Nigatsu-do Hall. Giant torches are carried across a balcony to shower sparks on the crowds below—believed to cleanse sins and bring good luck. Even if you’re not there during the exact fire night, earlier rituals are performed throughout the month.

🚉 Getting Back to Kyoto

From Nara, it’s an easy ride back to Kyoto on the JR Nara Line or Kintetsu Nara Line, depending on where you’re staying.

Was it a packed day? Absolutely. Worth it? 100%. Between sipping matcha and watching fire light up the night sky, this was one of those days that reminded me just how beautifully layered Japan is.

📖 More details? Check out my full guide:
👉Day Trips from Kyoto: Matcha in Uji & Deer + Fire Festival in Nara

🐟 Day Trip from Kyoto: Ine, Amanohashidate & Miyama

I booked the Ine Funaya, Amanohashidate & Miyama Town Gassho Village 1-Day Tour through Klook—and honestly, I can’t recommend it enough. For travelers without a car (and not ready to navigate multiple rural train lines and bus transfers), this tour is a total game changer.

🐟 Ine Town – Floating Villages & Frenzied Birds

Our first stop was Ine, a quiet fishing village known for its picturesque funaya—traditional boathouses built right over the water. It’s like Venice meets rural Japan. We hopped on a short bird-feeding boat cruise, where seagulls and hawks swooped in midair to snatch crackers tossed from the deck. A little chaotic, very fun, and the views of the houses from the water were postcard-perfect.

🌲 Amanohashidate – Chairlifts, Pine Trees & Scenic Views

Next up: Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s “Three Scenic Views.” Picture a natural sandbar lined with thousands of pine trees stretching across a bay—it looks like a dragon flying through the sky when viewed from above.

I took the cute single-person chairlift up to the mountaintop view platform. At the top, you’ll find cafes, photo spots, and the famous viewing platform where you can do the “look-between-your-legs” pose to see the “bridge to heaven” illusion.

🏡 Miyama Gassho Village – Fairytale Vibes

The final stop of the day was Miyama, a peaceful countryside town filled with thatched-roof farmhouses that look straight out of a Studio Ghibli film. In March, it was dusted with snow, adding to the fairy tale atmosphere.

This lesser-known spot felt worlds away from the tourist crowds in Kyoto. The village was quiet and serene, perfect for wandering and snapping photos. Some homes are still lived in, while others have been converted into small museums or cafes.

Why I Loved This Tour (and You Might Too)

If you’ve tried researching how to visit these places on your own, you probably realized it’s a logistical nightmare without a car. This Klook tour made it easy—I could just sit back, relax, and soak in the views. The only thing is that I wish we had more time in Amanohashidate to explore. If i were to come back though, i’d do an overnight stay here.

It’s a perfect “off-the-beaten-path” day trip from Kyoto for travelers looking to experience the countryside, coast, and culture—all in one go.

Cost in March 2025: Around $60 USD for the tour itself, with an additional $15 USD for the Ine boat cruise and Amanohashidate chairlift, bringing the total to about $75 USD for a full-day adventure. Meals are not included, so pack snacks or bring a little cash for lunch.

📖 More details? Check out my full guide:
👉A Perfect Day Trip from Kyoto: Ine Amanohashidate & Miyama

2 Days in Kamakura: Coastal Charm & Spiritual Vibes

I stopped in Kamakura on my way back from Kyoto to Tokyo, thinking it would just be a quick overnight stay to break up the journey. I initially assumed one night would be enough—but I quickly realized that Kamakura has a lot more to offer. From beautiful ocean views to unique cultural influences and hidden gems, I ended up staying for two nights and honestly wished I had stayed longer.

Kamakura is the kind of place that sneaks up on you. It’s part spiritual retreat, part surf town, part nostalgic escape from Tokyo’s rush. You can watch the sun set over the ocean, wander shrine-filled forests, and snack your way through quirky side streets—all in the same afternoon.

🏖️ Exploring Kamakura: Beach Walks & Local Life

Kamakura isn’t just temples—though it has plenty. It’s also a coastal town with a relaxed vibe, great coffee, and streets that invite slow wandering. I spent my first evening strolling the beach, grabbing a quiet dinner near Hase Station, and soaking in the slower rhythm of life.

🌊 Enoshima – A Little Island with Big Vibes

Just a short hop away, Enoshima Island is full of energy. From food stalls and shrines to ocean views and romantic caves, it’s a fun and compact day trip that pairs perfectly with Kamakura.

• Enoshima Shrine Complex – Dedicated to Benzaiten, goddess of music and water
• Samuel Cocking Garden – A tranquil garden with ocean views
• Iwaya Caves – Sea-carved caves with a mystical feel
• Street food – Get the grilled octopus crackers or Enoshima soft serve!

Things to do in Kamakura:

• 🚃 Kamakurakoko-Mae Station – The Slam Dunk Stop
  • This spot is famous from the anime Slam Dunk and has become a must-visit for fans and photographers. With the Enoden train rolling past the ocean, it’s one of the most photogenic railway crossings in Japan. Just prepare for a bit of a crowd—it’s popular for a reason.
• 🗿 Giant Buddha at Kotoku-in
  • The Daibutsu (Great Buddha) is Kamakura’s most iconic sight—a serene 13-meter-tall bronze statue you can actually go inside. It’s peaceful, grand, and surrounded by trees that glow golden at sunset.
• ⛩ Sasuke Inari Shrine – Hidden Torii & Fox Spirits
  • This tucked-away shrine is lined with red torii gates and fox statues, giving off a mystical, almost Ghibli-like vibe. It’s one of Kamakura’s lesser-known gems, and a great place for quiet reflection.

🛏️ Where I Stayed: Guest House Kamejikan

I stayed at Guest House Kamejikan, a traditional Japanese guesthouse in a beautifully restored 1920s house. It had a cozy communal feel, with tatami rooms and friendly staff. The homemade Japanese breakfast was simple but delicious—a lovely way to start the day.

📖 More details? Check out my full guide:
👉 Captivating Kamakura Itinerary: How to Spend 1-2 Days on Japan’s Coast

4 Days in Tokyo: Cherry Blossoms, Hidden Streets & Saying Goodbye

After a whirlwind adventure across Japan, I ended my trip back in Tokyo for a few slower days of exploring, eating, and soaking up the city vibes. I split my stay between two hostels—because when in Tokyo, why not try both sides of the experience?

🛏️ Where I Stayed in Tokyo:

• 📚 Book and Bed Tokyo (Shinjuku)
  • I spent my first night at this dreamy, book-lover’s paradise. It’s a cozy capsule tucked inside towering shelves of novels and magazines. A little pricey at around $60 USD per night, but worth it for the vibe—perfect for solo travelers wanting a unique, artsy stay.
• 🌸 Sakura Hostel Asakusa
  • For the rest of my Tokyo stay, I moved over to this budget-friendly hostel closer to Narita Airport. Not only was it more affordable, but its central location made it easy to explore the older, more traditional side of Tokyo.

🌸 Day Trip to Matsuda – Kawazu Blossoms with a Fuji View

Where to see Cherry Blossoms near Tokyo:

Springtime in Japan = cherry blossom magic. While Tokyo’s popular sakura spots are lovely, I wanted something quieter and more scenic—so I hopped on a train to Matsuda, one of my favorite hidden finds of the entire trip.

Just 1.5 hours from Tokyo, Matsuda bursts into bloom with early-season Kawazu cherry blossoms, vibrant yellow rape flowers, and jaw-dropping views of Mount Fuji. Bonus: Since they bloom earlier than typical sakura, the crowds are thinner—more flowers, less stress.

📍 Getting There:

• Odakyu Line: Shinjuku Station → Shin-Matsuda Station (1 hr 15 min) + 20-minute walk to Nishihirabatake Park
• JR Route: Tokyo Station → Kozu → Gotemba Line → Matsuda Station (1.5 hrs) + 15-minute walk

Nishihirabatake Park:

• About 360 Kawazu cherry trees form a vivid pink tunnel, with golden fields of rape blossoms below and Fuji in the distance. It’s officially ranked as one of the region’s top scenic spots—and your camera will agree.
• Best time to visit: February to early March (in 2025, they bloomed a bit late—always check the website before going). Arrive early for fewer crowds and better light.

Aguri Park Sagayamaen – The Hidden Gem

Most people stop at the main festival park, but if you’re up for a mini adventure, Aguri Park Sagayamaen is 100% worth the uphill effort.

I accidentally took a 40-minute detour into the woods thanks to Google Maps—so save yourself the confusion and follow this route instead:

➡️ From the top exit of Nishihirabatake Park,

• Go left to see Kochia Village, a cute garden and teahouse with seasonal flowers and good ice cream.
• Or go right and hike uphill for about 20–30 minutes to reach Aguri Park, which offers expansive views, cute local produce stands, and a peaceful escape from the festival crowds.
• Not going to lie—the hike up to Aguri Park is steep! But trust me, it’s totally worth it.
• Unlike Nishihirabatake Park, Aguri Park has a much more natural, less structured layout. The paths are dirt and narrower, allowing for a more immersive experience among the flowers, and because it’s further up the hill, the vantage point is even better!

📖 More details? Check out my full guide:
👉Matsuda Cherry Blossom Festival: A Dreamy Sakura Day Trip from Tokyo

🚶‍♀️ Wandering Tokyo: My Last Few Days

With no more fixed plans, I spent the rest of my Tokyo time wandering through local neighborhoods, chasing low-key gems, and soaking in all the little moments before heading home.

Things to do in Tokyo:

• 🛍️ Yanaka Ginza & Yadorigi Cat Cafe – Retro shopping street with a laid-back vibe and friendly feline companions.
• ⛩️ Sakura Jingu Shrine – A peaceful shrine surrounded by cherry blossoms, especially lovely in spring.
• 🐾 Gōtokuji Temple – Home of the maneki-neko (beckoning cat) legend—expect hundreds of lucky cats!
• 🎨 The National Art Center, Tokyo – Always rotating exhibits and stunning architecture.
• 📷 Asakusa Underground Street – A blast from the past with vintage signs, ramen stalls, and Showa-era vibes.
• 🎯 Setagaya Hachimangu Shrine – Quiet, less touristy, and home to a sumo wrestling ring
• 🛍️ Ueno Ameyoko Shopping Street – Bustling market street with everything from seafood to sneakers.

2 Week Japan Itinerary Budget Breakdown

Wondering how much a 2 week Japan trip really costs? Here’s a quick look at what I spent traveling through Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Koyasan, Kamakura, and more—while sticking to a budget:

Category	Cost (USD)	Notes
✈️ Roundtrip Flights (LAX to Tokyo)	$525	Booked on Zipair during Black Friday sale (carry-on only)
🏨 Accommodation (14 nights)	$620	Mix of hostels + 1 night temple stay in Koyasan – booked during holiday promotions
🚅 Train Tickets (not including metro)	$235	Booked individually (no JR Pass)
🚇 Suica Card + Metro/Vending Purchases	$150	Great for local transit and snacks
🍜 Food	$385	Convenience store meals, ramen, and street food
🎟️ Tours (2 total)	$115	Arashiyama day tour + Ine & Miyama day tour via Klook
🛍️ Temples, Museums & Souvenirs	$360	Includes shrine donations, entry fees, skincare + snacks

💡 Total Spent: ~roughly $2,500

This budget-friendly itinerary still allowed for amazing experiences—from hiking Fushimi Inari to soaking in the peaceful vibes of a mountaintop temple stay. With careful planning, Japan can definitely be done without breaking the bank!

2 Weeks in Japan: Final Thoughts, Tips & What I’d Do Differently

Looking back, this trip to Japan was an unforgettable mix of stunning scenery, cultural deep dives, chaotic train transfers, and cozy hostel moments. From hiking in the north to chasing cherry blossoms in the south, each region added a completely different flavor to the experience—and I left already dreaming of my next visit.

Would I change anything? Maybe slow down just a tiny bit and give myself more time in places like Kamakura and Kyoto. But honestly, the fast pace, spontaneity, and jam-packed days made it the kind of trip I’ll never forget.

✨ Japan Travel Tips

1. Book Accommodation (and Tickets) Early
Japan’s popularity has soared in recent years—and it shows. Hostels, popular restaurants, and train reservations fill up fast, especially during cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons. If there’s something you really want to do or see, book it well in advance. This is especially true for places like Book and Bed, limited-entry attractions – Ghibli Museum, and seasonal festivals.

2. Leave Room in Your Suitcase for Souvenirs
Trust me: you will shop more than you plan to. Between the matcha treats, quirky stationery, and all the convenience store snacks, your luggage will fill up fast. But most of all—make space for skincare and beauty items. Japan’s beauty industry is lightyears ahead of the U.S., with everything from hydrating sheet masks to luxe yet affordable serums.

*I only had a carryon, but they have a pharmacy AFTER security in Narita airport so I was able to stock up before flying home!

3. Pack Smart—but Light
You’ll be moving a lot, and stairs are everywhere. Go for a light, rollable suitcase or backpack, and focus on layers rather than bulky clothing. Bring comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be walking a lot), a compact umbrella, and your own set of reusable chopsticks and tote bag—they’ll come in handy and reduce plastic waste.

4. Get a Transit Card + Pocket Wi-Fi
IC cards like Suica or ICOCA make train hopping smooth (you can add it to your apple wallet). Pair that with pocket Wi-Fi or an eSIM for real-time navigation, and you’ll save yourself countless hours of confusion.

5. 2 Week Japan Itinerary Without a JR Pass: Is It Worth It?
With the rising cost of the JR Pass, many travelers are finding that it’s no longer the budget-friendly option it once was—especially if your 2 week Japan itinerary focuses on popular routes like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. In many cases, purchasing individual train tickets can actually be more cost-effective.

To decide what’s best for your trip, it’s a good idea to map out your major train journeys in advance and calculate the total cost. Remember, the JR Pass is only valid on JR-operated lines, so you’ll likely still need to buy additional tickets for metro systems and private railways in cities like Tokyo and Kyoto. For travelers not planning long-distance travel every few days, skipping the JR Pass might save you money and offer more flexibility.

6. Go Beyond the Big Cities
Tokyo and Kyoto are amazing—but the magic often lies in smaller towns and day trips like Ine, Matsuda, Nara, and Kamakura. Japan’s regional diversity is wild, and getting off the tourist path leads to some of the most memorable moments.

Until Next Time, Japan 🇯🇵

This trip was everything I hoped for—wildly beautiful, sometimes chaotic, often delicious, and always memorable. Whether you’re a solo traveler, first-timer, or repeat visitor, I hope this guide helps you plan your own epic Japan journey.

Thanks for following along!