The best way to discover Japan is to spend two weeks exploring the wonders of the Land of the Rising Sun.
Here is a sample schedule for 15 days in Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Hiroshima to discover great sites and activities. But first, some practical advice including the best time to visit the country and how to find a cheap flight.
Which Season Is Best For Visiting Japan?
The best period is spring (from March to May). Indeed, it is the season of sakura: cherry trees in bloom (end of March – beginning of April), the temperatures are mild, the weather is nice and there is little rain. However, it is also the high season.
You can also go in autumn, ideally at the end of October and November, and enjoy the beautiful colors of autumn.
Avoid the month of September, where there is a risk of typhoons, and in summer because the humidity is high and the heat is stifling.
If you are not afraid of the cold and are looking for cheap flights, go in winter.
How To Get To Japan?
International visitors usually arrive at Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT), followed by Kansai Airport (KIX) which is located south of Osaka. To find a cheap flight, I recommend you to use this flight comparator to find the best deals.
Itinerary For 15 Days In Japan
6 days in Tokyo
To discover the traditional atmosphere of Tokyo, go to the east of the city, and for the modern, pop, and futuristic side of the city, go to the west.
It is necessary to spend several days to discover the mix of traditional and pop culture unique to Tokyo!
To begin your tour to Japan, I propose paying a visit to the Senso-Ji temple, which is one of Tokyo’s most colorful and spiritual temples. Then don’t miss Harajuku, Tokyo’s most unique, amusing, and eclectic neighborhood.
And of course, Shibuya Crossing, the most popular place to visit in Tokyo. Located in the heart of the city, Shibuya is the perfect place to fully immerse yourself in Japanese culture and make the most of modern Tokyo.
Finally, take a stroll through the beautiful Yanaka district, one of the few places in Tokyo where the ancient spirit, traditional Japanese lifestyle, and tranquility have preserved their place over the decades. Don’t miss the Gyokurin-Ji temple as well as the Yanaka Cemetery which houses the eternal tomb of the famous Tokugawa Yoshinobu, the last of the Shoguns of the Edo period.
After seeing all the facets of Tokyo, we must end on an incredible note – a view from the Tokyo Skytree. It is the second tallest structure in the world (the tallest is Burj Khalifa in Dubai), offering fascinating views of the city by day and magical views by night.
3 days in Kyoto
For almost a thousand years, Kyoto has enjoyed the distinction of being Japan’s most beautiful metropolis. Even though Tokyo currently has the title, Kyoto remains a city full of daily surprises for people and innumerable magnificent places for visitors. Kyoto is different from Tokyo. You can feel the historical and traditional aspects of Japan.
A great way to start your adventure in Kyoto is to visit the Higashiyama district (for the authentic atmosphere of Kyoto). The ancient capital of Japan is very well reflected between the Yasaka-Jinja Shrine and the Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, where the narrow streets and wooden stores will take you back in time.
Located in the same area, discover Kodai-Ji Temple and its bamboo grove, located behind it. This is a place where time seems to stop still, and a stroll through the bamboo forest will provide you with an unforgettable experience.
The great Nanzen-Ji temple is also a must-see. It has played an important role in the past centuries, and has been called the “First Temple of the Earth”. It is one of the five great Zen temples in Kyoto and has been part of the Kyoto landscape since 1291.
For beautiful photos, take a walk in Maruyama Park known for its countless cherry trees. Enjoy the cherry blossom season in spring (last week of March – first week of April).
On the grounds of Saiho-Ji Temple sits one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens. These gardens, which were designed in 1339 and are heart-shaped, provide a wonderful perspective and a genuine historical Japanese ambiance.
For an old-fashioned experience, you can try the ancient saunas at Funaoka Onsen. As you can see, there are many sights to see in Kyoto!
From shrines (Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine) and temples (Ginkaku-Ji Temple, Kinkaku-Ji Temple, Ryoan-Ji Temple…) to natural sites (Arashiyama Bamboo Grove), you are spoilt for choice.
1 day in Nara
It takes only about 1 hour by train to get to Osaka from Kyoto.
Nara was Japan’s first permanent capital, following which it was moved to Nagaoka, Kyoto, and eventually Tokyo. Nara is now known for historical treasures such as the Todai-Ji temple, the Nara National Museum, and its gorgeous deer park, Nara Park, which is located in the city’s heart.
2 days in Osaka
It’s time to explore the greatest wonders of Osaka.
Here is a small selection of the must-sees:
- Osaka Castle: an iconic Japanese castle,
- Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: one of the most beautiful in the world
- Umeda Sky Building: a magnificent 40-story building that offers a 360° view of Osaka
- Minami district: to eat, to shop, …
- Kuromon market
- Shinsekai district
1 day in Hiroshima
From Osaka, it takes roughly 3 hours to go to Hiroshima.
This is the city that was largely destroyed when an atomic bomb was dropped on it during World War II. Great efforts were made to rebuild the city and today, Hiroshima is well known for its aspirations of tranquility with its Peace Memorial Park. Hiroshima Castle, Mitaki-Dera Temple is also worth a visit!
Here we are at the end of our stay. Did you like it? Japan is one of the most popular destinations in Asia, which deserves to be visited at least once in a lifetime!
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