Three weeks in Japan might seem like enough time to see the island without even having to rush anywhere. At least this is what most travelers would think.
Unfortunately, (or not), Japan is not that kind of place – filled with picturesque views, breathtaking shrines and castles, endless nature and spiritual exploring opportunities as well as colorful and vivid street life. However, we did our best to summarize the ultimate Japanese experience and add some alternative suggestions off the beaten path.
Many travelers feel rushed and unable to enjoy Japan at their own pace. In this post we are not going to use numbers nor try to indicate the days you are supposed to stay or spend in a particular location. You, our readers, have the freedom to create your personal itinerary. Let’s begin:
Tokyo (Week 1)
For some classic Tokyo routes and to-do lists, please refer to our well-researched guides:
Following are some of our favorite places, albeit not the most famous ones for the general public.
The Advertising Museum of Tokyo
A very unusual museum where the curious story of Japanese advertising and design is selected and gathered in one place. This museum will not only take you through the advertising history of Japan (since the Edo period, seventeenth century) but also through the Japanese cultural evolution.
You will be able to gain an insight like never before of how the Japanese buy and why they prefer some products to others. It is a story of their likes and dislikes, of their preferences and desires through the years, and a genuinely fascinating one. The selection is of Japanese advertising only, but information is available in English.
Location: Minato-ku, Higashi-Shimbashi 1-8-2, Caretta Shiodome
Website: http://www.admt.jp/en/index.html
National Science Museum
Highly recommended to all natural science and animal lovers, the National Science Museum is in Ueno Park. If you happen to stay there on the National Museum Day (18th of May, however, do consult the museum’s website), the entrance will be free of charge.
The museum is divided into two main sections:
- The Japanese Gallery: focusing on the history of the Japanese islands and the evolution of people and nature.
- The Global Gallery: focusing on animal evolution, the science and technology progress. It also offers exhibitions of ancient to modern-day animals, 360-degree cinema and computer screens with live streaming.
Location: 7-20 Uenokoen, Taito, Tokyo 110-8718
Website: http://www.kahaku.go.jp/english/
Akihabara Electric Town
A central Tokyo district, famous for its numerous electronics shops. A place for all the devoted fans of the technologically advanced Japanese culture, who will jump for joy once they discover the variety of gadgets this district has to offer. Softmap and Laox are just two of the major electronic shops you will find there.
A unique attraction for anime lovers – the Tokyo Anime Center (4th floor of the UDX building) has to offer anime-related exhibitions, events, and shops.
Location: Akihabara Station (Keihin-Tohoku Line, Yamanote Line, Chūō-Sōbu Line).
Tokyo Disneyland
Just 15 minutes away (by JR train) from the central Tokyo railway station is located one of the greatest attractions for children and parents! Disneyland will take you to a dream kingdom you could never have imagined, with a little bit of Japanese magical dust spread around the fields of joyful shouts and eagerness to hop on all the attractions.
It is important to remember – probably there will be a lot of visitors. However, everyone working for Tokyo Disneyland tries to make it as easy as possible for everyone to enjoy their time there.
Location: 1-1 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture 279-0031
Website: http://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/tdl/
Origami Workshops
Have you ever wondered how to make a plane or a beautiful flower out of a piece of paper? Have you ever thought this was impossible, and only Japanese elders were allowed to gain such knowledge? Joking aside, this is indeed a beautiful art that can help you change your entire home!
Visit the Origami Kaikan workshops and factories and learn it yourself! You will not have to pay anything; this workshop is free of charge. On the 2nd and 3rd floors of the building, you will be able to observe the process of traditional Japanese origami making and decorating.
Location: 1-7-14 Yushima, Bunkyō 113-0034.
Attend a Weekly Festival
Festivals happen literary every week! It is said New York is the city that never sleeps. However, Tokyo is the city that never sleeps, never stops, never rests! A rather long description, still an entirely honest one. In July, for example, you can enjoy some exciting local festivals such as:
- Lantern floating event
- Summer festivals
- Koganei Awaodori Dance Competition
- Local Goldfish festival
And last but not least, the most spectacular, the Sumida River Fireworks Festival. The best thing about them all is that none will cost you a penny. However, each event will leave you breathless with the desire to start planning your next trip to Tokyo.
Location: Tokyo city and surroundings
Give the technology of tomorrow a try
Japan is a paradise on earth for the IT addicted. The giants: Sony (showroom located in Ginza) and Toyota (Odaiba entertainment and shopping district) offer the general public free showrooms, where everyone can learn more about and play with the latest gadgets and technology from the two companies.
Cup Ice Cream Museum
If you have an exotic taste for ice cream, and you have always wondered what shrimp or garlic with mint ice cream would taste like – this is the place that will answer all your questions.
The Cup Ice Cream Museum does have a rather unusual approach to their ice cream flavor selection, however, with over 400 different choices; you are guaranteed to find the perfect match.
Location: 3-1-2 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-Ku
Watch a Sumo morning training session
Sumo tournaments are considered a must-see by many international visitors (not to mention the Japanese, they are just crazy about this sport). However, what very few think about is the curious preparation routine that stands behind these traditional Japanese fights. Watch how sumo practitioners get ready for a tournament by taking a closer look at their not so famous sumo practice.
The Arashio Stable offers anyone, willing to wake up early, to gain a curious insight into this unknown to most of us type of art. Typically, practices take place in the morning from 7:30 and 10 am.
Location: 2-47-2 Hama-chō, Nihombashi Chūō-ku
Takayama (Week 1-2)
Takayama, also referred to as Hida-Takayama, is a small, very well preserved mountain town, situated in the Hida region (Gifu Prefecture).
The old town
One of the few places in Japan where a whole region is so beautifully preserved. For those who appreciate the essence of the Japanese culture, its purity and respect for nature – this will be the perfect destination.
Just as if still living in the past centuries, the old town will take you on a journey through time and share with you what it meant to live in Japan during the Edo Period (1600-1868).
Higashiyama walking course
After visiting the Old Town, take a stroll through the Higashiyama Walking Course and discover more than a dozen hidden temples and shrines, as well as the ruins of Takayama’s former castle.
The walk will take you high up the hills of Shiroyama Park, where you will enjoy beautiful mountain views. The walk is 3,5 kilometers long and will take you away from crowds straight into the wild.
Matsuri no Mori
Matsuri no Mori (in translation: Festival Forest) is a museum, dedicated to the main facts of the Takayama Festival. It is considered to be one of the three most impressive and beautiful festivals of Japan, together with Gion Matsuri of Kyoto and the Chichibu Yomatsuri – a night festival close to Tokyo (90 minutes by car).
The very entrance of this mystical underground museum will offer visitors to play the giant Taiko drums, placed by the door. Once inside the cave-like museum, travelers will see large screens depicting the magical floats from famous festivals around Japan. Witness a genuinely genius craftsmanship and a mystical experience.
Location: 5 Chome-1 Tenmanmachi, Takayama, Gifu Prefecture 506-0025.
Sanmachi Suji
Amid the northern Alps is set the great former castle town of Hida Takayama, which is currently one of the best-preserved castles in Japan. The center of Hida Takayama is called Sanmachi Suji – a central historical region that consists of three main streets – Ichino-machi, Nino-machi, and Sanno-machi.
Along those old streets, you will find small shops selling traditional crafts, Japanese merchant houses, hot springs and many temples. The area is called “Little Kyoto” by the locals for its natural waters and well-preserved shrines and temples.
Hida Folk Village
Known in Japanese as Hida-no-Sato, this model of a folk village has over 30 buildings, recreating Hida’s historical look and including National Cultural Treasures.
Life and culture of mountain farming villages are recreated, with displays of traditional crafts and a beautiful central lake.
Kanazawa
Kenrokuen Garden
Famous for being one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens, Kenrokuen attracts many visitors who seek to soak up as much from Japan’s nature as possible.
The park fascinates with its clean waters, flowering gardens, stones, and hidden nooks. All of this and more is available to the general public for free. It is needless to say that in the spring the cherry blossoming would leave breathless any visitor – foreign or not.
Kenrokuen Garden also disposes of lovely little tea houses, which offer traditional Japanese green tea and sweets. A treat that everyone can enjoy during their visit.
Location: 1 Kenrokumachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture 920-0936
D.T. Suzuki Museum
Visit this unique Zen temple, built and dedicated to Daisetsu Teitaro Suzuki, the paramount of Zen Buddhism, the person who introduced the spiritual culture Zen to the West. The D.T. Suzuki Museum takes the form of a brilliantly built concrete complex, which incorporates the Zen art in its every inch.
Location: 3 Chome-4-20 Hondamachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture 920-0964
Omicho Market
With over 170 stores of literally all kinds: from fresh fish and drinks all the way to clothes, the Omicho Market has much to offer to both residents and international tourists.
Enjoy the taste of fresh seafood, caught just a while ago, and explore the tastes of different Japanese vegetables, fruits, and refreshing drinks.
Location: 〒920-0905 Ishikawa Prefecture
Kanazawa Castle
Visit the magnificent seat of the mighty lord of Kaga, one of the richest and wealthiest federal domains of Japan, during the Edo period in the sixteenth century. The castle’s territory will take you back to the year of 1657 when the great Meireki fire burned the Kanazawa castle down to the ground.
The current standing reconstruction is an exact copy of what this great building once was, apart from the castle’s central keep, which burned down in another fire in 1602 and was never rebuilt.
Location: 〒920-0937 Ishikawa Prefecture, Kanazawa, Marunouchi, 1−1
Kyoto (Week 1-2)
The thousand year capital, the center of Japan’s sublime gardens, ancient temples, and vibrant shrines, Kyoto is where even the Japanese go to learn and soak up more of their culture.
Kyoto is among the most culturally-rich cities in the world, taking its rightful spot right between Paris, Rome, and London. A must-see destination that should be included in the bucket list of every traveler.
For the traditional itinerary format on what to see and do in Kyoto, read our Japan in 7 days: Travel itinerary article, as well as Japan in 14 days: Travel plan.
Following is our carefully selected list of Kyoto’s latest must-see and do:
Kabuki Theater
Kabuki is a traditional Japanese dance-drama, famous for its outstanding performances, as well as the performers’ costumes and makeup. Kyoto’s famous Minamiza Kabuki Theatre is an extraordinary location, where spectators can enjoy the traditional form of Japanese stage drama.
Location: 198 Nakano-cho, Shijo-dori, Yamato-oji nishiiru, Higashiyama-ku.
Attend a tea ceremony
Matcha (powdered green tea) ceremonies have been an essential part of the Japanese culture for centuries. Such gatherings take place for both formal and informal meetings with friends or business partners.
As always – describing a ritual cannot compare to living it. Since you are already keen on Japanese culture – attending a tea ceremony should be a must on your list. For detailed information, you can always ask the concierge at your hotel regarding some great local advice.
Kyoto International Manga Museum
Another must-see for all anime and manga lovers – one of Japan’s specialties – is the International Manga Museum. Not only that – it is the best manga Museum of Japan. Any comics fan will be more than thrilled to visit this place, as it holds up to the high standards expected from the Japanese, including:
The museum has to offer anything manga-lovers can want:
- An endless amount of original comics that you can take a read during your visit
- A detailed timeline of the history and evolution of manga
- Tutorials on how to draw Japanese comics and occasional live storytelling performances
All of this and more only in the Kyoto International Manga Museum – the best of its kind.
Make sure not to step on anyone while at the museum, since visitors are free to take any manga comics and read it, usually lying on the floors.
Location:〒604-0846 Nakagyo Ward (Kyoto Prefecture)
Gion (Geisha District)
The most famous district in Kyoto, the only geisha place left in the country where traditional wooden architecture meets lovely tea houses – this is Gion.
The Japanese love their traditions, which is why even nowadays people still gather in the old tea rooms and organize gatherings that include live music performances, dances or just passionate discussions.
Visitors from all over the world can enjoy such events. You will be surprised by the number of Japanese tourists who come from other parts of the country willing to catch a glimpse of it with their cameras.
WAK Japan – Women’s Association of Kyoto
WAK Association started over 12 years ago with the aim of promoting and giving international visitors access to the traditional, spiritual and cultural experience rooted in the Japanese culture. Just to name a few examples:
- Tea ceremonies
- Calligraphy classes
- Sushi making
- Sake tasting
- Flower arrangement
- Kimono try-on
Learn about 400-year old rituals, understand how to appreciate tea and get the most out of its herbs, while trying on a traditional kimono and feeling the art of Japanese elegance.
Location: 761 Tenshucho, Takakura-dori, Nijo-agaru, Nakagyo-ku
Website: http://wakjapan.com
The Philosopher’s Walk
This beautiful pedestrian path that follows a cherry-tree stream was named Philosopher’s walk over a hundred year ago. It is a well-known fact that the famous at the time Professor Nishida Kitaro of the University of Kyoto used to walk here every day and use the time to contemplate.
The serenity, peace, and quiet of this 30-minute walk (approximately 2 km long) might just inspire you to take up daily relaxing walks and integrate such activity in your everyday life.
The river bank includes some magnificent temples, gardens, and shrines. Furthermore, if you decide to visit the place during spring, you will see the explosion of colors and the mesmerizing effect of the famous cherry blossoming.
Location: Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 606-8406.
Osaka (Week 2)
Formerly known as Naniwa, the ever-busy Osaka was the first ever officially recognized capital of Japan. It is currently the third largest city area in Japan after Tokyo, with a greater population than any European and American city (apart from New York). Pretty impressive, considering the actual size of Japan and the fact that it doesn’t even get close to the top 30 largest countries in the world.
If you wish to learn even more about Osaka, take a look at our Japan in 7 days and Japan in 14 days articles.
Shitennoji Temple
If you are an admirer of the Japanese culture, this is the place you need to visit. Shitennoji was the first Buddhist temple ever to be constructed in Japan by the state. Similar to many wooden constructions, the temple has burned down more than once or twice throughout the years. However, its reconstruction has never been a question. What is more, after each fire the temple was built in respect of the original 6th-century design.
Location: 1-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 543-0051 (JR Tennoji Station).
Abeno Harukas
An inspiring view from above is never a bad idea. Visiting the highest skyscraper in Japan is an even better one! The building is located just by the JR Tennoji Station, which makes it perfect for all Japan Rail Pass holders.
A mesmerizing view from above is not the only thing Abeno Harukas has to offer! Apart from the observation deck, you can enjoy an Art Museum, located on the 16th story, the Abeno Harukas Kintetsu Department Store, which happens to be the biggest one in Japan and even a hotel with… do we need to say it? With a fantastic view!
Location: 1-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno Ward, Osaka (JR Tennoji Station).
Website: http://www.abenoharukas-300.jp/en/.
Nipponbashi (Den Den Town)
Most commonly known as Den Den Town (Japanese slang for electronics – denshikiki), this is the most famous neighborhood in Osaka for electronic gadgets and otaku (obsession with a hobby that changes your lifestyle) items.
Before and during the World Wars the area used to focus on books, appliances, and furniture. Nowadays it has turned into a manga and anime-related shopping district, quite similar to Akihabara in Tokyo.
This is one of the very few places in Japan where you can bargain the price of the item you wish to buy. However, always be careful as the locals have become specialists on a world-class level when it comes to haggling.
Location: Nipponbashi, Naniwa Ward, 556-0005 (15-minute walk from JR Namba Station).
Hep Five
If you have always wanted to ride a massive red Ferris wheel on the top of a skyscraper in Japan – this is the place for you.
Apart from an adventurous experience, Hep Five is a 10-story high shopping mall and entertainment center. You will find restaurants, European and Japanese fashion stores, including game centers (7th floor) where many of the local visitors love to gather and play.
To top it all after a long and tiring walk, go to the last floor and take a ride on the big red Ferris wheel – a romantic experience, preferred by many couples after sundown.
Location: 5-15 Kakudacho, Kita Ward, 530-0017 (Osaka central station).
Osaka Museum of Housing and Living
One of the most visual and captivating museums of Osaka. By focusing on the housing and living changes and Japanese social evolution in the last 400 years, this museum tells the story of the ordinary people – how they lived, what they did, gives occupation examples, and whole recreational scenes and villages.
Additionally, it also provides a clear view of the contrast between day and night life and how the city changes. This museum just the place for all history lovers and for those who are simply in love with the Japan.
Location: 〒530-0041 Osaka Prefecture, Osaka, Kita Ward, Tenjinbashi, ６丁目４−２０ (JR Temma station).
Namba Yasaka Shrine
This is a different type of shrine, located in the mouth of a 12-meter tall lion. The exact year of its construction is unclear, although it is believed to have been built during the 11th century. It is thought the lion’s broad and seemingly vicious mouth would swallow all malicious spirits and bring good luck to its visitors. Therefore, many students visit the shrine before important exams or even employers, who wish for the successful development of their business.
Location: 2 Chome-9-19 Motomachi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 556-0016 (JR Namba station).
Nara (Week 2)
The most famous spot in Nara is the Todai-ji temple, which houses the large (16 -meter) Buddha. You can read more about it in our Japan 7-day itinerary (Nara). But there is so much more to enjoy:
Kasuga-Taisha Shrine
Kasuga-Taisha is one of the most special shrines in Japan as not only the temple itself but the mountain just behind are both considered holy and are worshiped by the locals.
What is more, it is the greatest Shinto shrine on the territory of Nara. Do not be fooled by the beauty of this holy place as you mustn’t forget to take a stroll along the mysterious paths, surrounding it. It is an experience from a whole new world, surprising, considering the millennial history of the shrine.
Yakushiji Temple
Nara is famous for its Seven Great Temples and Yakushiji is one of them. The temple has a rather interesting history – it was constructed in the seventh century for the recovery of Emperor Tenmu’s sick wife.
Similar to many majestic wooden temples, fire also destroyed this one. However, its greatness was never compromised. Within this temple, you will find a three stories tall pagoda, which is home to a Great Buddha – both of which are now national treasures.
Location: 457 Nishinokyocho, Nara, Nara Prefecture 630-8563
Gangoji Temple
Similar to the temple mentioned above, Gangoji is one of the Seven Great Temples of Nara as well as a world-heritage site. Having been moved to Nara from Asuka in 718, it is one of the oldest temples in Japan, preserving within its halls the spirit of history.
Location: 11 Chuincho, Nara, Nara Prefecture 630-8392
Okayama (Week 3)
Kurashiki canal area
The Kurashiki Canal area was built in the early Edo period. It was mainly used as rice distribution center and therefore one of the keys of Okayama prefecture. The literal translation of Kurashiki is “town of storehouses”, indicating its original purpose. The warehouses have been transformed into welcoming cafes, museums, and small shops.
The well-preserved area and beautiful canal make it very attractive to international visitors.
Okayama Castle (Okayama-jo)
Okayama Castle, known as Crow Castle for its black exterior, is an excellent Japanese construction, six stories high. Its dark walls and finely engraved adornments will make you want to take a look inside, as it is equally fascinating.
In the 17th century, the castle was called Golden Crow Castle, as the central keep featured golden gilded roof tiles. Now only part of the castle’s roof remains gilded in gold. Just across the river from Korakuen Garden (one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan), this fortress makes for a perfect visit after a busy day.
Location: 2-3-1 Marunouchi, Kita Ward, Okayama Prefecture 700-0823
Korakuen Garden
Korakuen forms part of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens (together with Kenrokuen in Kanazawa and Kairakuen in Mito). Each garden represents vivid examples of the essence of Japan’s spiritual culture.
Kokaku-en in translation means “Garden of pleasure after” – a reference to the Confucius saying that a ruler must first attend to the needs of the ordinary people, and only then should he consider his own.
By having this in mind, you can better understand why this garden is regarded as one of Japan’s best. Its colors are completely different with every season, and the surprises behind each corner are countless.
Location: 1-5 Korakuen, Kita Ward, Okayama Prefecture 703-8257
Website: http://www.okayama-korakuen.jp/english/
Yumeji Art Museum
Located nearby the Korakuen Garden, the Yumeji Art Museum is the perfect final destination. It is famous for the art of the great Japanese master Takehisa Yumjei, who is known as the Japanese Toulouse-Lautrec.
His depiction of beautiful women in kimonos and smooth S-shaped lines has become a signature of his own artistic style, called Bijin-ga. The museum is one of the main local atractions and is included in the Michelin Green Guide, with one star.
Location: 2-1-32 Hama, Naka Ward, Okayama Prefecture 703-8256
Hiroshima (Week 3)
For more information about what to see in Hiroshima, refer to our Japan in 14 days article.
Hondori – Downtown Hiroshima
Hondori is one of the main city streets of Hiroshima. However, it is not the typical central street. The whole place is undercover, which makes it the perfect place to go on a rainy day or an escape from the summer heat. Moreover, the street is also closed to traffic so that visitors are not disturbed by the city noise.
Home to various department stores, cafes and restaurants, Hondori offers all visitors the opportunity to try some of Japan’s traditional meals, have a coffee with your friends or just take a stroll downtown.
The Electric Railways
Even though this may not be the most efficient way to move around, hopping on one of the Hiroshima tramways will bring you an entirely new experience. The city atmosphere completely changes when you see the inside of the city from the tram mirrors.
One of the great things about it is the flat fare – no matter how far you go, you always pay the same amount. So hop on and take in as much from this authentic Hiroshima atmosphere as possible.
Shukkeien Garden
Although it is not included in Japan’s list of top three most beautiful gardens, Shukkeien stands on the ground of so much history, events and art that it can be easily qualified as National Treasure.
The garden was originally built in 1620 by Ueda Soko as a private villa garden for the feudal lords of Hiroshima. In the early 1940s, the doors of the garden opened to the general public and made it famous quite quickly throughout Japan.
Miyajima (Week 3)
For more “What to do in Miyajima” suggestions, see our Japan in 14 days article.
Mount Minsen
If you have already visited the gorgeous Itsukushima Shrine and are looking for nature and unforgettable views – go straight up Mount Minsen. Located at 500 meters above sea level, this is the highest peak of Miyajima, offering breathtaking views that spread all the way to Hiroshima.
But if you wish to climb by foot – go ahead! For those who not so eager to walk, a ropeway will take you up the mountain, straight from the town. However, note that to reach the peak you will have to walk 1 km before getting to the highest point.
Sambashimae Park
This park is a place where wild deer run free and people go to take relaxing walks and enjoy nature. If you wish to escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet park with beautiful temples and various shops, this is the place for you. Our recommendation: breathe in the fresh air of Sambashimae with your family and friends.
Please, do pay attention to the signs and do not feed the deer, as these are wild animals.
Daisho-in Temple
Daisho-in is a spiritual place, where visitors can experience a live prayer session, accompanied by a taiko drum performance. Take your time and enjoy all the hidden gems this temple and its surroundings have to offer. The peace and serenity of the place will keep you protected from tourist noise, as it is located at the foot of the Minsen mountain and far from any shopping boots. An excellent end for any trip!
Other destinations
Finally, for further information about other possible destinations like Nikko, Kamakura, Takayama, Kanazawa, Hakone or Mount Fuji, please check our other guides: