Japan Itinerary – 2 Wonderful Weeks! – TREKwithBECK
Japan is one of those places which has absolutely stolen my heart. I have heard so much about how everyone loves Japan when they visit and was told I would too. I wasn’t sure as I am not much of a city girl and prefer nature destinations but was I wrong! Japan is such a beautiful country, rich in culture, amazing food, beautiful scenery, and incredible history. And we can’t forget the shopping!
I loved Japan so much that I ended up making plans to visit the following year, while I was still there! Now, I was very nervous to explore Japan for the first time as I was extremely overwhelmed with what I should do with my 2 weeks there. I spent hours research blogs, watching YouTube and social media – I then decided on this itinerary. This itinerary is great for first time visitors who aren’t 100% sure where to go or just want to follow an easy route.
I have included some basic information about how to travel around Japan, but if you would like a more in-depth guide to travelling around Japan – please let me know in the comments!
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How to travel around Japan?
The best way to travel around Japan is by the Shinkansen (bullet trains). This will be the quickest and most efficient way to travel on this itinerary and is how you will get from each destination to the next. The best way to travel internally in each destination is by public transport. Japan has one of the most efficient public transport system I have ever seen.
Booking the Shinkansen is easy, you can book it through third party websites such as Klook. Or you can use the SmartEX app to book your tickets directly and link your transport card for easy boarding.
You can also book your ticket directly at the train station at one of the ticket machines. These machines are very easy to use as they are all able to be put in English. I wouldn’t recommend doing this option if you are travelling during the busy season such as Cherry Blossom or Golden Week, as you may miss out on seats.
How to stay connected in Japan?
There are several options to stay connected in Japan, via an Esim or pocket WIFI. I personally am not a fan of pocket WIFI, as you must send them back once you have finished using them, plus carry them around. Every time I travel, I always get an Esim when I travel, as it means I can be connected as soon as I land in a new country. I only ever use one brand of Esim and that is Airalo.
They have great options for Japan Esims – keep in mind all sims are going to be extremely expensive in Japan. Japan, however, does have a lot of free WIFI spots too so you won’t use too much of your data!
I also highly recommend downloading Google maps for your trip. This will be the best way to understand how to get around, and it will help you plan travel routes with all the public transport information needed.
Best time to visit Japan?
The best time to travel to Japan is during Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring is when the Cherry Blossom season and Golden week occur, so expect it to be very busy during these times. I personally think it’s best to head to Japan 2 weeks after Cherry Blossom season, you still may see some cherry blossom trees, but it isn’t as crowded!
If you visit during Autumn, expect beautiful scenery with the landscapes changing colour and lovely temperatures.
2 Week Japan Itinerary
Starting off this itinerary strong with Tokyo! Tokyo is such an incredible place, I thought I was going to be overwhelmed here, but ended up loving it so much. That’s a lot coming from someone who isn’t a big fan of cities! There Is so much to do in Tokyo, I’ll be honest you are barely going to scratch the surface within the 5 days on this Japan itinerary. However, 5 days is the perfect amount of time to explore the main areas of Tokyo, and further out to some country towns on day trips.
I have written an in-depth blog for a 5 day Tokyo itinerary, which can be found here.
My most favourite destination on this Japan Itinerary! Kyoto is an incredible city, with endless things to do. Having over 2000 shrines and temples, rich cultural experiences, and amazing culinary experiences. You won’t get bored for the three days you are exploring this incredible area.
I have written an in depth blog on how to spend 3 days in Kyoto, which can be found here. If you are just looking for things to do with your time in Kyoto, you can read my blog here which has 12 wonderful things to do.
DAY 10 – 11: Hiroshima
Hiroshima is a must visit for your first Japan trip. It is only a short visit in this Japan itinerary, but it is plenty of time to see the main attractions, learn a bit of history and enjoy the outskirts. I have written a blog here which has all the amazing things I recommend you do with your time in Hiroshima.
I highly recommend taking a day trip to the Miyajima Island, especially if you love hiking and nature!
You will finish off your Japan itinerary in Osaka, Japan’s second largest city. This city is full of life and is a great place to get your final feast on! You can either have 1.5 full days here, flying out on the 14th day. OR you can have 2.5 full days here and fly out on the 15th day. I personally would add the extra day and fly on the 15th day of this itinerary, because this means you can explore Osaka for 1.5 days, then head over to Nara for a day trip.
If you are looking for things to do in Osaka, you can read my blog here.
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