2-Week Itineraries in Japan: 3 Best Ideas in 14 Days

14, echoing the number of lines in a sonnet, a pattern reminiscent of the Japanese haiku; the brief but spectacular display of the second of those grand festive fireworks; the graceful flowing period of cherry blossoms from their first bloom to the fall; and the generous span of 2 weeks, ample time to traverse the extensive land of Japan. From the highlights to the off-the-beaten-track gems, let the following three 2-week itineraries show you the best of Japan.

Itinerary #1 Capture the Autumn Color of Falling Leaves

Which word would you choose to describe the shape of the maple and ginkgo leaves in autumn? Well, just let your imagination guide you to find your answer on this 2-week Japan tour in its magnificent display of autumn colors during the fall foliage season.

Mt. Fuji with Fall Foliage

Soak up the fresh new look of Tokyo for your first 3 days, with a grand new backdrop of red and gold. Take a leisurely stroll along the yellow wooden approach leading to the Meiji Shrine. Discover an autumn paradise at the Shinjuku Gyoen, where vibrant colors paint another world. Capture unique night photo opportunities at Rikugien Garden, a garden with a tranquil lake and brightened leaves gently floating in the background.

Following a 1.5-hour drive from Tokyo, you'll arrive at the maple-surrounded Lake Kawaguchi. Here, the tranquil waters glow with the reflection of Mount Fuji, creating a picturesque setting perfect for a delightful boat trip.

Don't be sad when you leave the magnificent Mt. Fuji, as you can still capture its beautiful white snow-capped peak while soaking in the open-air hot springs in Hakone. On the following day, delve into the volcanic wonders of Owakudani to satiate your curiosity about hot springs, as well as a cruise on the crater lake of Ashi. A journey of three hours will transport you to the millennia-old city of Kyoto.

Fall Color in Kyoto

Framed by the autumn leaves, those temples and shrines in Kyoto return to their sanctity. Inside the black Nijo Castle is the barely hidden garden shouting its masterpiece. Take a glimpse of the Kiyomizu-dera at the autumn dusk while the gold and red blur the boundaries of the sky and eaves. Follow the red carpets leading to the Jojakko-ji, where an observatory awaits, allowing you to capture the splendid beauty of Arashiyama and its vibrant bamboo forest.

Embark on a picturesque 3-hour car drive that will take you to the torii of Takijiri Oji, a captivating gateway to explore the essence of Japanese autumn along Kumano Kodo. Follow the meandering Nakahechi trail as it leads you to discover hidden treasures. Let the cool breeze beneath the crown shake off your fatigue, and take the melodic warbling as your morning clock. Set your own pace to immerse yourself in the enchanting path adorned with rivers and crimson foliage, where the hot springs surrounding the Kumano Hongu Taisha promise to be your ultimate reward.

Farewell to the forest pilgrimage route is the cozy Osaka, a walkable city always ready to soothe your body and soul with its abundant street food. For something more authentic, let the Shinkansen whisk you away to the neighboring Kobe in less than an hour, the delectable Kobe beef will surely bring solace to your heart.

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Itinerary #2 Join the Spring Cherry Blossom Hanami

Join the hanami while the gentle breeze wakens the bud of spring, it is time to leave the stage for the fancy sakura, the main hero of the cherry blossom festival. Allow this 2-week cherry blossom itinerary to infuse your Japan tour with a vibrant burst of pink.

Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto

Arrive in Tokyo, where the skyline is bathed in light pink, gracing iconic landmarks like the Tokyo Tower and Sky Tree in their fresh spring outfits. Offer your wishes at Meiji Jingu, the host of the grand Spring Festival featuring traditional performances. Take a leisurely stroll to Shinjuku Gyoen, where cherry blossoms bloom in abundance. As the perfect touch, don a kimono adorned with sakura patterns before meandering down Nakamise shopping street in front of Senso-ji.

Embark on a journey south to Kamakura for a serene day trip away from the bustling streets, where the iconic Great Buddha of Kamakura awaits, framed by delicate sakura. Ascend the steps to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu and its rock garden adorned with pale cherry blossoms and peonies, which promises to be a delightful surprise.

Why not indulge in some light exercise before immersing yourself in Hakone's soothing hot springs(onsen)? Seize the opportunity to capture the blooming Mt. Fuji alongside the five-storied pagoda at Arakurayama Sengen Park, or embark on a leisurely boat ride on Lake Kawaguchi with the falling petals of pink flowers. Breakfast is followed by a scenic drive to Takayama, with a stop at the cherry blossom surrounding Lake Suwa, the site of the giant aerolite landing in the animated film Your Name.

Step back into ancient Japan as you cross the flowery Nakabashi Bridge. Journeying from the Kusakabe Folk Museum, which houses traditional wooden structures with low eaves, to the bustling Kami Sannomachi Street to encounter old stores and costumed crowds that seamlessly transport you back to the captivating era of the Edo period.

Kimono in Cherry Blossom Patterns

In the city center of Kanazawa lies Kenrokuen, home to towering cherry blossom trees with a rich century-old history. Venture to Shirakawa-go for a unique Japanese-style snow house, forming triangular shapes around the secluded village enveloped in the fragrance of rice. It is the perfect haven to unwind, clearing your mind as you sip sake amidst the delicate pink petals.

Embark on a journey to Kyoto to continue your fantasy. Allow the Togetsukyo Bridge to guide you to Arashiyama, where the delicate dance of pink cherry blossoms entwined with emerald-green bamboo leaves unfolds before your eyes. Take a moment to rest on the benches of the Philosopher's Path and let the petals gently cascade to the tip of your nose.

After a descent through the countless torii gates at the Fushimi Inari Shrine, consider tracing the Shinkansen route for a brief detour to the nearby city of Nara before concluding your Osaka Free Journey. Nara, a forest city, invites you to interact with charming deer in Nara Park, nestled at the base of Mount Wakakusa, where the enchanting presence of cherry blossoms dominates the scenic landscape.

Conclude your exploration by relishing a delightful picnic beneath the sakura surrounding the resplendent Osaka Castle. Venture to the Mint Bureau, where you can capture the breathtaking cherry blossom canopies with your camera.

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Itinerary #3 Summer, Beach & Firework

Experience the harmonious symphony of cicadas and wind chimes that marks the onset of summer matsuri in Japan. Adorn yourself in a yukata and select an exquisite mask as a decoration, let the breathtaking fireworks be a memento of your spectacular 2 weeks in Japan.

Gion, Kyoto

Arrive in Tokyo with the scent of incense from Senso-ji and its greeting lantern under the Kaminarimon. At the end of the street lies Akihabara, where cafes and animation stores offer the unique essence of an animated summer day. Deep into the lush forest discover the Meiji Shrine adorned with the regal purple of irises. Conclude your whispered prayers with resonant clapping, leaving your ema displayed in the serene courtyard.

Immerse yourself in Kamakura, where the grand fireworks festival embraces you on the second day. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the city, taking in the magnificence of the Great Buddha and the delicate hydrangeas surrounding the Hasedera temple. Conclude your exploration at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, where the pathway behind the shrine guides you to Yuigahama, offering a coastal vantage point for the spectacular hanabi display.

As you transition to Hakone for your third stop, include volcanically cooked hard-boiled eggs from Owakudani in your breakfast. Take pleasure in a boat ride across Lake Ashi with the majestic Mt. Fuji as your backdrop, or consider adding peak hiking to your itinerary, knowing that smoothing hot springs resorts are readily available to soothe your weary body.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Extend your stay in Kyoto for the next three-day itinerary. Trace the shadows cast by the Torii gates guiding you to Fushimi Inari Taisha, where the divine fox statue awaits. Adorn your head with a kitsune-patterned mask, slip into a slender kimono, and let the gentle tapping sound of your wooden clogs resonate along the flagstone streets of Gion. Listen to the concerto played by the bamboo forest and wind chimes beneath the Arashiyama, as well as the whispering shadows of the Nijo Castle light show to bring some chilly to your summer night.

Allow Osaka to be your last stop, where the convenient Shinkansen will be a great help in your free day exploring the neighboring city. Whether indulging in an authentic Kobe beef tasting, encountering adorable deer in Nara Park, or simply enjoying a picnic beneath the dappled shadows of Osaka Castle with yesterday's Kyoto-made bento, let this cozy city fulfill all your desires and curiosities before heading back home.

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Travel to Japan with Odynovo

In a 2-week holiday, there's always much to experience the charm of Japan across its diverse seasons. From spring cherry blossoms to summer fireworks, splendid autumn leaves, and the snow-covered ski paradise. Most importantly, don't let time constrain your imagination. Whether opting for a 7-day tour or extending your journey to around 10 days, let Odynovo cater to your desire for a dreamy Japan tour.