TourTally

19-Day Grand Tour of Japan: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Nature

Discover the essence of Japan from bustling metropolises to serene countryside, exploring iconic landmarks, traditional culture, and exquisite cuisine.

2024-10-15 00:00 - 2024-11-02 00:00
Day 1

Welcome to Tokyo

The Heartbeat of Modern Japan

  1. Sensoji Temple (9:00-11:00)
  2. Detailed Description: Sensoji Temple, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple, is Tokyo's oldest temple, dating back to 645 AD. Located in Asakusa, it is dedicated to the Bodhisattva Kannon. The temple is famous for its impressive Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and the bustling Nakamise shopping street leading up to the temple, filled with traditional snacks and souvenirs.
  3. Duration: Approximately 2 hours
  4. Rating: 4.8/5

  5. Must-Try Food: Taiyaki, Ningyo-yaki

  6. Tokyo Skytree (12:00-14:00)

  7. Detailed Description: Tokyo Skytree is the tallest structure in Japan, standing at 634 meters. It serves as a broadcasting tower and offers two observation decks, providing stunning panoramic views of the Tokyo metropolis. The tower also houses a shopping complex and an aquarium at its base.
  8. Duration: Approximately 2 hours

  9. Must-Try Food: Skytree Parfait

  10. Shibuya Crossing (15:00-17:00)

  11. Detailed Description: Shibuya Crossing, often dubbed the world's busiest pedestrian crossing, is an iconic symbol of Tokyo. The intersection outside Shibuya Station is a hive of activity, adorned with neon lights and giant video screens. It's a must-see experience to witness the organized chaos of thousands of people crossing at once.
  12. Duration: Approximately 1 hour
  13. Must-Try Food: Hachiko dango
Day 2

Tokyo’s Historical and Trendy Spots

Blend of Tradition and Modernity

  1. Meiji Shrine (9:00-11:00)
  2. Detailed Description: Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, nestled within a forested area in Shibuya. The serene environment contrasts with the bustling city outside, making it a peaceful retreat. The shrine is famous for its large torii gates and traditional weddings.
  3. Duration: Approximately 2 hours
  4. Rating: 4.6/5

  5. Must-Try Food: Omikuji senbei

  6. Harajuku & Takeshita Street (12:00-14:00)

  7. Detailed Description: Harajuku is the epicenter of Tokyo's youth culture and fashion. Takeshita Street is the main shopping street, lined with trendy boutiques, crepe stands, and unique shops. It's a vibrant area that showcases the quirky and colorful side of Tokyo.
  8. Duration: Approximately 2 hours

  9. Must-Try Food: Harajuku crepes

  10. Odaiba (15:00-18:00)

  11. Detailed Description: Odaiba is a futuristic island in Tokyo Bay, known for its shopping malls, entertainment complexes, and stunning waterfront views. Key attractions include the life-sized Unicorn Gundam Statue, Palette Town's Giant Sky Wheel, and the teamLab Borderless digital art museum.
  12. Duration: Approximately 3 hours
  13. Must-Try Food: Odaiba pancakes
Day 3

Exploring Kyoto’s Timeless Beauty

A Journey into Japan's Historical Heart

  1. Fushimi Inari Shrine (Day 3, 9:00-12:00)
  2. Detailed Description: Fushimi Inari Shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which create a mesmerizing pathway up Mount Inari. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, and is known for its fox statues.
  3. Duration: Approximately 3 hours
  4. Rating: 4.9/5

  5. Must-Try Food: Inari sushi

  6. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) (Day 3, 14:00-16:00)

  7. Detailed Description: Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, situated amidst a picturesque garden. It is one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks and offers serene views of the pavilion reflected in the pond.
  8. Duration: Approximately 2 hours

  9. Must-Try Food: Matcha ice cream

  10. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (Day 4, 9:00-11:00)

  11. Detailed Description: The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a natural forest of towering bamboo stalks that create a surreal and tranquil atmosphere. It’s one of Kyoto’s most photographed spots, especially at dawn or dusk.
  12. Duration: Approximately 2 hours

  13. Must-Try Food: Yudofu (tofu)

  14. Nijo Castle (Day 4, 13:00-15:00)

  15. Detailed Description: Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns. It features beautiful gardens, ornate interiors, and the famous "nightingale floors" that chirp when walked on.
  16. Duration: Approximately 2 hours

  17. Must-Try Food: Yatsuhashi (sweet mochi)

  18. Gion District (Day 5, 15:00-18:00)

  19. Detailed Description: Gion is Kyoto’s famous geisha district, filled with traditional wooden machiya houses. Visitors can stroll along Hanamikoji Street, enjoy traditional teahouses, and possibly catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko.
  20. Duration: Approximately 3 hours
  21. Must-Try Food: Kaiseki (traditional multi-course meal)
Day 4

Osaka’s Vibrant Energy

A Culinary and Cultural Adventure

  1. Osaka Castle (Day 6, 9:00-12:00)
  2. Detailed Description: Osaka Castle is a historic landmark surrounded by a moat and extensive park. The castle museum offers insights into Osaka’s history and the life of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
  3. Duration: Approximately 3 hours
  4. Rating: 4.7/5

  5. Must-Try Food: Okonomiyaki (savory pancake)

  6. Dotonbori (Day 6, 14:00-17:00)

  7. Detailed Description: Dotonbori is Osaka’s famous entertainment district, known for its neon lights, lively atmosphere, and street food. Key sights include the Glico Running Man sign and the mechanical crab at Kani Doraku.
  8. Duration: Approximately 3 hours

  9. Must-Try Food: Takoyaki (octopus balls)

  10. Universal Studios Japan (Day 7, 9:00-17:00)

  11. Detailed Description: Universal Studios Japan is a popular theme park featuring attractions based on Hollywood movies, including Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Minions. It’s a fun destination for families and thrill-seekers.
  12. Duration: Approximately 8 hours

  13. Must-Try Food: Butterbeer (at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter)

  14. Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Tower (Day 8, 9:00-12:00)

  15. Detailed Description: Shinsekai is a retro district with a nostalgic atmosphere, featuring the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower. The area is famous for its kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and old-school charm.
  16. Duration: Approximately 3 hours

  17. Must-Try Food: Kushikatsu

  18. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (Day 8, 14:00-17:00)

  19. Detailed Description: Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the largest aquariums in the world, showcasing marine life from the Pacific Rim. Highlights include the central tank with a whale shark and the interactive touch pool.
  20. Duration: Approximately 3 hours
  21. Must-Try Food: Seafood bento
Day 5

The Serene Beauty of Nara and Kobe

Tranquility and Scenic Views

  1. Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple (Day 9, 9:00-12:00)
  2. Detailed Description: Nara Park is famous for its free-roaming deer and is home to Todai-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the Great Buddha. The park offers a peaceful environment with historic temples and beautiful gardens.
  3. Duration: Approximately 3 hours
  4. Rating: 4.8/5

  5. Must-Try Food: Kakinoha sushi (persimmon leaf sushi)

  6. Kasuga Taisha (Day 9, 14:00-16:00)

  7. Detailed Description: Kasuga Taisha is Nara’s most celebrated Shinto shrine, known for its many bronze and stone lanterns. The approach to the shrine through Nara Park is lined with ancient trees and deer.
  8. Duration: Approximately 2 hours

  9. Must-Try Food: Mochi (rice cake)

  10. Himeji Castle (Day 10, 9:00-12:00)

  11. Detailed Description: Himeji Castle, also known as the White Heron Castle, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Japan’s best-preserved feudal castle. Its stunning white exterior and complex design make it a must-see historical landmark.
  12. Duration: Approximately 3 hours

  13. Must-Try Food: Himeji oden

  14. Kobe Harborland (Day 10, 14:00-17:00)

  15. Detailed Description: Kobe Harborland is a waterfront area featuring shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment options. Attractions include the iconic Kobe Port Tower and the scenic Mosaic Garden.
  16. Duration: Approximately 3 hours

  17. Must-Try Food: Kobe beef

  18. Arima Onsen (Day 11, 9:00-12:00)

  19. Detailed Description: Arima Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest and most famous hot spring resorts, located in the mountains behind Kobe. The onsen town offers a relaxing experience with traditional inns and hot spring baths.
  20. Duration: Approximately 3 hours

  21. Must-Try Food: Onsen tamago (hot spring egg)

  22. Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden (Day 11, 14:00-17:00)

  23. Detailed Description: Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden is a hillside garden with stunning views of Kobe and the surrounding landscape. The garden features a variety of herbs, flowers, and themed gardens, accessible via a scenic ropeway.
  24. Duration: Approximately 3 hours
  25. Must-Try Food: Herbal tea
Day 6

Hiroshima and Miyajima: Reflections on History and Nature

Peace and Scenic Landscapes

  1. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum (Day 12, 9:00-12:00)
  2. Detailed Description: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945. The park includes the Peace Memorial Museum, which provides a poignant and educational experience about the events of the bombing and the importance of peace.
  3. Duration: Approximately 3 hours
  4. Rating: 4.9/5

  5. Must-Try Food: Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki

  6. Miyajima Island and Itsukushima Shrine (Day 12, 14:00-18:00)

  7. Detailed Description: Miyajima Island is famous for Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic floating torii gate. The island offers beautiful hiking trails, scenic views, and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can also interact with friendly deer.
  8. Duration: Approximately 4 hours

  9. Must-Try Food: Momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped cake)

  10. Shukkeien Garden (Day 13, 9:00-11:00)

  11. Detailed Description: Shukkeien is a historic Japanese garden in Hiroshima, offering a serene escape with its ponds, bridges, and carefully manicured landscapes. The garden’s name means "shrunken-scenery garden," symbolizing its miniature representation of natural landscapes.
  12. Duration: Approximately 2 hours

  13. Must-Try Food: Matcha with wagashi (Japanese sweets)

  14. Hiroshima Castle (Day 13, 13:00-15:00)

  15. Detailed Description: Hiroshima Castle, also known as Carp Castle, is a reconstructed castle that offers insights into the region’s history. The surrounding grounds feature beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and offer a picturesque setting.
  16. Duration: Approximately 2 hours

  17. Must-Try Food: Hiroshima tsukemen (spicy dipping noodles)

  18. Okunoshima (Rabbit Island) (Day 14, 9:00-12:00)

  19. Detailed Description: Okunoshima, known as Rabbit Island, is home to hundreds of friendly rabbits that roam freely. The island also has a dark history as a former site for poison gas production during World War II, which can be explored at the island’s museum.
  20. Duration: Approximately 3 hours

  21. Must-Try Food: Onigiri (rice ball)

  22. Hiroshima Bay Cruise (Day 14, 14:00-16:00)

  23. Detailed Description: A cruise around Hiroshima Bay offers scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea, dotted with islands and picturesque landscapes. The cruise provides a relaxing way to take in the natural beauty of the region.
  24. Duration: Approximately 2 hours
  25. Must-Try Food: Fresh seafood
Day 7

Scenic Beauty and Cultural Exploration in Kanazawa and Takayama

Traditional Japan and Mountain Retreats

  1. Kenrokuen Garden (Day 15, 9:00-11:00)
  2. Detailed Description: Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa is one of Japan’s three most beautiful landscaped gardens. It features ponds, streams, bridges, and seasonal flowers, creating a picturesque setting that changes throughout the year.
  3. Duration: Approximately 2 hours
  4. Rating: 4.7/5

  5. Must-Try Food: Jibuni (duck stew)

  6. Kanazawa Castle (Day 15, 13:00-15:00)

  7. Detailed Description: Kanazawa Castle, with its distinctive white walls and traditional architecture, offers a glimpse into the region’s feudal past. The castle grounds are extensive and also connect to the adjacent Kenrokuen Garden.
  8. Duration: Approximately 2 hours

  9. Must-Try Food: Kaga cuisine

  10. Higashi Chaya District (Day 15, 16:00-18:00)

  11. Detailed Description: The Higashi Chaya District in Kanazawa is a well-preserved historical area with traditional teahouses and shops. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the cobblestone streets and taste local sweets.
  12. Duration: Approximately 2 hours

  13. Must-Try Food: Gold leaf ice cream

  14. Shirakawa-go (Day 16, 9:00-12:00)

  15. Detailed Description: Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs. The village is set in a picturesque mountain valley and offers a glimpse into Japan’s rural past.
  16. Duration: Approximately 3 hours

  17. Must-Try Food: Hida beef

  18. Takayama Old Town (Day 16, 14:00-17:00)

  19. Detailed Description: Takayama’s Old Town is famous for its well-preserved Edo-period streets, historic merchant houses, and sake breweries. Visitors can explore the charming townscape and enjoy local crafts and cuisine.
  20. Duration: Approximately 3 hours

  21. Must-Try Food: Takayama ramen

  22. Hida Folk Village (Day 17, 9:00-11:00)

  23. Detailed Description: Hida Folk Village is an open-air museum showcasing traditional rural architecture from the Hida region. The village features over 30 relocated and restored buildings, including thatched-roof houses, barns, and temples.
  24. Duration: Approximately 2 hours

  25. Must-Try Food: Gohei mochi (rice cake with sweet sauce)

  26. Matsumoto Castle (Day 17, 14:00-16:00)

  27. Detailed Description: Matsumoto Castle, also known as Crow Castle due to its black exterior, is one of Japan’s most complete and beautiful original castles. The castle offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
  28. Duration: Approximately 2 hours
  29. Must-Try Food: Basashi (horse sashimi)
Day 8

Final Days in Tokyo

Last Glimpses and Souvenir Hunting

  1. Tsukiji Outer Market (Day 18, 9:00-11:00)
  2. Detailed Description: Tsukiji Outer Market is a bustling marketplace known for its fresh seafood, local produce, and street food stalls. It’s a great place to try sushi and other Japanese delicacies.
  3. Duration: Approximately 2 hours
  4. Rating: 4.6/5

  5. Must-Try Food: Sushi

  6. Ginza Shopping District (Day 18, 12:00-15:00)

  7. Detailed Description: Ginza is Tokyo’s premier shopping area, featuring high-end boutiques, department stores, and fine dining establishments. It’s a perfect place for luxury shopping and people-watching.
  8. Duration: Approximately 3 hours

  9. Must-Try Food: Wagashi (Japanese sweets)

  10. Akihabara (Day 18, 16:00-18:00)

  11. Detailed Description: Akihabara is the epicenter of otaku culture, known for its electronics shops, anime stores, and maid cafes. It’s a must-visit for fans of Japanese pop culture.
  12. Duration: Approximately 2 hours

  13. Must-Try Food: Katsu curry

  14. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (Day 19, 9:00-11:00)

  15. Detailed Description: Shinjuku Gyoen is one of Tokyo’s largest and most beautiful parks, featuring traditional Japanese gardens, French formal gardens, and English landscape gardens. It’s a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.
  16. Duration: Approximately 2 hours

  17. Must-Try Food: Matcha latte

  18. Tokyo National Museum (Day 19, 12:00-14:00)

  19. Detailed Description: The Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park houses a vast collection of Japanese art and
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