3-Week Itinerary in Japan: The Most Popular Choice

How about a delightful 3-week journey through Japan, immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo, embracing the rich culture and traditions of Kyoto, exploring the serene villages surrounding Kanazawa, and marveling at the wonders of Hiroshima? Dive into the details of this sample 3-week itinerary for an unforgettable Japan tour.

Where to Go for My 3-Week Itinerary in Japan

Sapporo

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, is renowned for its winter charm, hosting the annual Sapporo Snow Festival, as well as the gateway to those skiing resorts with hot springs and excellent ski trails, an ideal city to enjoy your winter holiday.

Sapporo Snow Festival

Tokyo

Tokyo is a metropolis that can represent Japan the most, where tradition and modernity harmonize seamlessly. Offers an unparalleled fusion of culture, from serene gardens to neon-lit skyscrapers, making it a captivating destination for every traveler and any time.

Kyoto

The city of Millennium, Kyoto preserves the essence of ancient Japan, home to exquisite temples and traditional tea houses, where geishas grace historic streets, and cherry blossoms and fall foliage frame historic landmarks, creating an unparalleled atmosphere of Japanese elegance.

Osaka

The leisurely Osaka is a food lover's paradise with convenient transport. From historic castles to bustling street markets and lively entertainment districts, or board the Shinkansen to its neighboring city Kobe for the authentic taste of Kobe beef. If you like, alight Nara to encounter those lovely deer.

Osaka Castle Park

Kanazawa

Known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, the beauty of the Kenrokuen Garden and its samurai heritage, Kanazawa invites visitors to explore its historic charm, art museums and intricate tea houses, offering a glimpse of Japan's rich cultural tapestry.

Hiroshima

Modern Hiroshima embraces renewal, showcasing vibrant culture, cuisine, and a spirit of hope. Housing the Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, as well as the floating Itsukushima Shrine, one of the best places to enjoy the spring cherry blossoms.

Okinawa

Okinawa, a tropical paradise to enjoy your beach holiday in Japan, captivates with its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, coral reefs, the unique Ryukyuan culture of historic sites like Shuri Castle, and a distinct blend of Japanese and indigenous traditions.

Okinawa

A Classic 3-Week Itinerary for Japan Highlights

Southern Honshu Island, hosting a myriad of vibrant cities, stands as an ideal region for your 3-week Japan itinerary. From the iconic Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka to the enchanting cities of Hiroshima, Nara, and Kobe, this region offers a diverse array of experiences, making it the preferred choice for discerning travelers seeking an enriching and extended holiday.

Day 1 - 4: Explore Tokyo From Shinjuku to Chiyoda

Shibuya & Shinjuku

Start your journey from Shibuya, a trendy district celebrated for its youthful vibes, particularly in Harajuku. Exiting Shibuya Station, the iconic Hachiko Memorial Statue is nearby, close to the renowned Scramble Crossing. Head north through the serene forest to discover the hidden gem of Meiji Shrine. During the autumn season, take a leisurely stroll along Meiji Jingu Gaien, where the enchanting Ginkgo Avenue is sure to captivate your senses.

Explore the nearby Shinjuku Gyoen for another delightful afternoon stroll, marveling at the timeless Japanese garden, whether adorned with spring cherry blossoms or autumn leaves. Consider a stay in Shinjuku, indulge in an izakaya meal, savor the local flavors against the backdrop of the vibrant city skyline, or venture into the lively night parties of Kabukicho, welcoming the sunrise.

Shibuya, Tokyo

Senso-ji & Ueno in Taito City

Senso-ji, another Tokyo landmark located in Taito City, is distinguished by its iconic Kaminarimon. Traverse Nakamise Dori Street with Edo-style decorated stores ideal for a kimono-clad stroll and picking up unique handicrafts. Don't forget to collect coins for the saisen box to offer prayers for blessings.

There are also various museums around Ueno to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, covering topics from Japanese swords to art, nature, and science. Also, as one of the best places to savor the cherry blossom season, so don't forget to bring your blanket and food to Ueno Park for an unforgettable spring day.

Imperial Palace & Akihabara in Chiyoda City

Return to central Tokyo in Chiyoda City, where the Imperial Palace, a water-encircled Edo castle, invites all visitors to explore its exquisite East Garden. Adjacent to it lies the Chidorigafuchi Moat, offering boat rentals for a scenic view of the historic site against the enchanting cherry blossom backdrop during the spring season.

As for the afternoon, head to Akihabara about a 15-minute drive from the Imperial Palace for the latest electronics, video games, manga, and street live, or indulge in a unique afternoon tea experience surrounded by animated characters.

Akihabara, Tokyo

Day 5 - 6: Mt.Fuji Day Tour & Hakone Onsen Experience

Mt.Fuji

Embark on a day trip to Mt. Fuji, where you can ascend the stairs to the five-story tower at Arakurayama Sengen Park, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Mt. Fuji. Or venture down to Lake Kawaguchi to witness the captivating reflections, allowing you to truly appreciate the allure of this snow-capped mountain.

Hakone

Nestled amid numerous onsen resorts, Hakone is an ideal retreat for relaxation, particularly for hikers who have just conquered Mt. Fuji. A single dip in the hot springs rejuvenates your body, warming you to the bones. However, don't linger too long in the onsen since there are also some natural wonders worth a visit, like the Hakone Shrine with its lakeside Torii and Owakudani, known for its steaming geysers.

Day 7 - 8: The Natural Resort of Nagano

Nagano

Nagano, a gateway to the Kamikochi Hike of the Japan Alps, where you can try an easy 1.5-hour trek around the Azusa River Valley with a mirror-like pond to collect all the reflections, an excellent frame of splendid nature. For a winter visit, journey north to Snow Monkey Park, where you can not only enjoy the hot waters beneath the mountain but also capture endearing monkeys gathered around the natural springs.

Monkeys in Snow Monkey Park

Karuizawa

Another natural mountain resort to continue your leisurely journey around Japan. Situated at a high altitude, with gentle slopes for perfect ski trails, an ideal place to escape the summer heat or crowds with all kinds of outdoor activities, as well as a paradise to revel in the fall foliage that adorns the whole landscape.

Day 9 - 11: Kanazawa, Takayama & Shirakawa-go

Kanazawa

Kanazawa is renowned for Kenrokuen, a cherry blossom site with centuries-old sakura trees. It is also an ancient city that maintains plenty of Edo-era wooden buildings, from the Kanazawa Castle with its history to tell to the two Chaya districts favored by period dramas, revealing the rich tapestry of Japanese culture and lifestyle.

Takayama

Takayama, often referred to as the "Little Kyoto" of the Hida region, transports you to ancient Japan. Serving as an alternate gateway to the Kamikochi hike from Nagano, it is renowned for its rich local culture, notably exemplified by the Hida Folk Village, an open-air museum recreating a charming village atmosphere.

Shirakawa-go

A tranquil village that embraces a bygone era, it preserves timeless traditions and allows you to immerse yourself in the rural charm of local life. Whether surrounded by green mountains and cherry blossoms in spring or covered in snow in winter, the Gassho-style houses create a picturesque fairytale setting. Explore this idyllic haven, sipping locally made sake and enjoying the warm hospitality of the villagers.

Shirakawago

Day 12 - 16: Kyoto's Temples & Culture Experience

Kinkaku-ji & Arashiyama

At first sight in Kyoto, few things can rival the allure of the resplendent Kinkaku-ji gleaming beneath the golden sunlight, particularly during an autumn visit when the lake mirrors the vivid hues of the surrounding leaves. Equally enchanting is the nearby Arashiyama, where the lush bamboo forest provides a striking color contrast against the backdrop of pink sakura or golden foliage-covered mountains.

Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kiyomizu-dera

Fushimi Inari Taisha is also a must on your 3-week itinerary, where the thousands of torii gates create a stunning pathway to the main shrine, perfect for viewing spring flowers. Follow this with a visit to Kiyomizu-dera, which offers an illumination show and provides an ideal vantage point to capture the entire view of millennium Kyoto.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Nishiki Market & Gino

Explore Kyoto's Nishiki Market to gather fresh ingredients for your culinary class, adding a Japanese-flavored dish to your dinner table. Venture to Gion for cultural immersion, indulging in a tea ceremony adorned in a delicate kimono. Gion also boasts renowned restaurants serving traditional kaiseki cuisine against the backdrop of a classic rock garden that changes hues with each season.

Day 17: Wonders in Hiroshima

Leave one day in Hiroshima before your Osaka journey, where a vibrant city narrates the history of Japan. Experience the site of A-Bomb Dome amid the Peace Memorial Park, then marvel at the floating shrine on Itsukushima Island, transforming with the ebb and flow of tides, always a captivating scene to capture.

Day 18 - 20: Osaka & Its Enchanting Neighbors: Nara & Kobe

Kobe

Indulge your taste buds in Kobe, renowned for its delectable beef. Relish the authentic experience in a local restaurant, pairing your meal with premium sake and concluding with fresh strawberries for dessert. Follow this culinary delight with a digestive stroll in the neighboring town of Himeji, home to the iconic snow-white castle.

Nara

Another captivating destination within a one-hour reach from Osaka is Nara, home to the enchanting Nara Park adorned with ancient shrines and temples as renowned as those in Kyoto like Todai-ji or Kasuga Taisha. Most notably, the park is inhabited by large numbers of adorable deer you can encounter with, considered divine messengers.

Deer in Nara Park

Osaka

As a laid-back city that perfectly encapsulates the essence of western Japan, concluding your 3-week Japan itinerary in Osaka is a delightful choice. Take a leisurely night stroll along Dotonbori, relishing the delectable street foods amidst the vibrant streets illuminated by twinkling neon lights. For the finest cherry blossom viewing, Osaka Park and the Mint Museum come highly recommended.

More Japan Itineraries With Odynovo

Do you now have a clear idea for your 3-week Japan tour, or are you still seeking inspiration? Whether it's a short 1-week trip, a 10-day itinerary with diverse themes, or travel ideas spanning 2 weeks, we're here to assist with your Japan tour.