Have you been yearning to travel to the Land of the Rising Sun? Well, you’re in luck! We have prepared a detailed 2 weeks in Japan travel guide. Made specifically for professionals who work hard during the year and want to enjoy a curated adventure, this guide maximises every moment you spend in the country.
From crowded Tokyo to breath-taking scenic Kyoto, we give you the main things you must see, taste, and experience in Japan. Our 2 weeks in Japan guide also offers tips on how to travel around Japan and everything else you’d need to make the most out of this 2-week escapade.
How to Get to Japan and Move Around
The first step of your travel planning should always focus on the flight. Narita International Airport in Tokyo and Kansai International Airport in Osaka are the main gateways for those coming from abroad. Of course, you can also choose to land at more local airports, like the Haneda Airport on the outskirts of Tokyo, and then travel to the centre by train or other means.
Once you get to Japan, there are plenty of options to move around. The country is widely known as the place with the best railway system, mainly represented by the Shinkansen bullet trains, which connect major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Foreigners can ride them by using the Japan Rail Pass.
Other options include buses or subways for efficient and on-time travel around the city. Alternatively, use Japanese cab services for quick movement around the bustling areas. There are also night buses used to travel from one city to another equipped with beds so you can lie down and take a nap or sleep during the whole ride.
As you can see, Japan is equipped with every type of transportation method (including some that only exist here). This makes travelling around the country a breeze. Going between different rural areas and cities in Japan is an integral part of the cultural experience as it combines the excitement of exploration and convenience.
Is a Japan Rail Pass Needed?
A Japan Rail (JR) Pass can help simplify your 2 weeks in Japan. This card allows you to explore the country using the extensive JR network. It is a unlimited travel pass and is accepted in most JR trains, including Shinkansen bullet train (excluding a very few rail lines) as well as some metro lines and ferries.
The pass is ideal for travellers who want to go through several cities or just explore a few areas around the bigger metropolises. It provides flexibility and convenience and saves you money rather than paying for each trip individually.
So, before you opt-in for the Japan Rail Pass, check your itinerary. If you’re staying for 2 weeks and travelling to several places, then this train pass is a great strategic choice. You get to move from one place to the other fast, all the while enjoying Japan’s landscapes and awe-inspiring culture.
however, beware that prices have recently gone up (Oct 2023), so I would advise to check if the JR pass is actually cheaper than your intended itinerary.
Tips
- To reserve seats on the train, should be done in advance, as popular trains can get booked up very quickly.
- Trains usually have 2 carriages which don’t require reservations and can just be boarded with the pass.
- Booking seats can be done easily at major stations, JR ticket offices usually have tourist section to help foreigners to make bookings.
To book your JR pass id recommend booking through klook as they usually provide a discount
Japan Itinerary
Although small, you wouldn’t believe how many things to do and see are there in Japan. On one hand, you have the ever-bustling Tokyo with neon-lit streets, soaring skyscrapers, and a culture unlike any other. In contrast, Kyoto features a more laid-back vibe, meaning you can truly experience a relaxing vacation, away from the worries of your everyday life.
To ensure you have the best possible 2 weeks in Japan, we have come up with a detailed itinerary including all the spots you shouldn’t miss out on. You’re free to alter it in a way to suits your preferences, but try to cover all the mentioned points.
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Tokyo (Recommend 4 days)
As soon as you land in Japan, all roads will lead to Tokyo. This metropolis is unlike any city in the world, adorned with sky-high buildings and an atmosphere that never seems to simmer down. However, compared to other huge cities, like New York, for example, the people are more polite and kind. In other words, even if it’s one of the busiest cities in the world, it surely won’t tire you out.
Spending three to four days in Tokyo is perfect! Keep in mind that even if you spend the entirety of your 2 weeks in Japan in this city, it still wouldn’t be enough to discover all of it. But look on the bright side – you’ll always have a reason to come back! We recommend staying at Shinjuku/ Shibuya or Ginza as they offer the best connections to other nearby cities. Additionally, you’ll be in the eye of all the action!
Tokyo Districts To Visit & What To Do
Asakusa District
The Asakusa district paints a perfect picture of Tokyo’s inimitable diversity. From ancient temples to buildings featuring cutting-edge technology, there’s something for everyone! While exploring Asakusa, be sure to check out these spots
- Sensoji Temple: This is one of the oldest and most colourful Japanese temples where you can immerse yourself in the more spiritual part of the city.
- Dawn Robot Cafe: Imagine having your coffee delivered by a robot. Yes, you read that right! This can only be experienced in the Dawn Robot Cafe and since it’s one of the most popular attractions in the city, you might want to arrive early to grab a seat.
- Food Markets: If we start talking about Japan’s culinary scene, we’ll most likely be here all day! With that in mind, we’ll let you have this experience for yourself. Discover one-of-a-kind delicacies and let your palate be amazed.
Shinjuku District
Even if you’ve never been to Tokyo, you probably know it’s one of the most uniquely-lit cities in the world. It practically looks like you’ve stepped in some kind of ultra-futuristic game! To best experience the city’s neon lights, visit the Shinjuku district. More specifically, head to Golden Gai and ensure you have your camera ready. Practically every corner of this street is picture-perfect!
Instagram able spots
- Goldern Gai
- Omoideyokocho
Shibuya/ Harajuku District
If you’re looking to experience Tokyo’s nightlife scene, Shibuya has the most energetic and vibrant bars and clubs in the city. On top of that, you should also eat at one of the many restaurants in the area, offering delicacies that will surely take you by surprise. What’s even better is this is just a smidge of what Shibuya has to offer. Don’t miss out on the following highlights:
- Shibuya Sky: Seeing Tokyo’s skyline from Shibuya Sky is an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime. However, this is one of the most visited sights in the city, so book your tickets in advance.
- Meiji Shrine: This is one of the most significant Shinto shrines in Tokyo, enriched with a tranquil atmosphere that will surely provide a breather from the city’s bustle.
- Takeshita Street: Going home without souvenirs would be a crime! On Takeshita, you’ll find some of the quirkiest items, perfectly highlighting the culture of this amazing country. Make sure to try the street food!
- Street Mario Kart: As the birthplace of Nintendo’s iconic character, it’s quite natural to see countless Mario-inspired things in Tokyo. If you’re a fan, go karting through the streets, Mario-style!
This was one my favourite experiences in Tokyo, I would highly recommend doing this, don’t worry your taken out with a guide and the traffic is very use sharing the road with these go carts.
- Animal Cafes: While you can have robots serving you coffee in Asakusa, in Shibuya, all kinds of animals can keep you company. Visit an animal cafe and enjoy a buzzy drink with cats, dogs, ferrets, or any other cute animal you could imagine.
- Shibuya Crossing: This is the famous iconicpedestriancrossing, where 3000 people can be crossing the intersection at a time. Seeing the busy road traffic stop for the huge number of people to cross, really is a unmissable sight in Tokyo.
Ginza & Roppongi Districts
Finally, spend your last days in Tokyo strolling through the Ginza district and shopping until you drop! Before you go, make sure to stop by at the iconic Tokyo Tower in the Roppongi district and dance the night away in one of the many nightclubs in the area.
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Mount Fuji (Recommend staying a 1-2 nights)
From Tokyo’s blinding lights and restless atmosphere, we move to a more serene atmosphere in Mount Fuji.
Mount Fuji, dominates the skyline and has a spiritually significance for the Japanese, it is a UNSECO site and really is an amazing escape from the madness of Tokyo. Since you’re limited with time, we recommend you spend one to two nights here. If you do spend a night here, then you’ll be able to discover some of the amazing Onsen’s (natural hot springs) located in this region.
You can also skip out on spending the night here and take a day trip from Tokyo instead, there are many organised tours from Tokyo which takes you several vantage points to see Mount Fuji as well as boat trip on the lake Infront of the volcano but know that it feels quite rushed and you won’t experience this amazing place the way it’s intended to.
If you do opt for staying here, which we highly recommend, you should stay at one of these two resorts:
- Hakone – known for the most relaxing hot springs enriched with breathtakingviews;
- Lake Kawaguchiko – a quiet town in front of Mount Fuji, characterized by a famous view of the Chureito Pagoda and countless hot springs.
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Kyoto (Recommend 4 days)
You can already picture what you can expect from your 2 weeks in Japan, right? Well, all of your expectations will change as soon as you arrive in Kyoto. Dubbed the cultural heart of the country, this city is a reflection of Japan’s traditional side, posing the perfect place to immerse yourself in the country’s culture.
We recommend spending at least four days here as there are many things to do. With that in mind, let’s check out some of the unmissable experiences!
- Tea Ceremony: Having tea is one of the oldest and most respected customs in Japan that is still being practised to this day. You can find an abundance of private houses that host the ceremony which typically lasts for half an hour to 45 minutes.viatouraffliate link
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: As the name suggests, this forest consists of endless bamboo lanes, creating a picture of resplendent greenery. While you’ll most likely be tempted to take countless pictures of it, we recommend you disregard your electronics and just enjoy the moment.
- Geisha District: Also known as Gion, here you can witness Japan’s one-of-a-kind Geisha culture. Colourful hostesses will welcome you to high-end dining spots and provide traditional entertainment. Remember to be respectful at all times!
- Shrines & Temples: Kyoto is recognised for its abundance of temples, shrines, and Japanese gardens so expect to have a hard time deciding which ones to visit.
Our recommendations are:
- Fushimi Inari Taisha – the Famous orange tori gates.
- Yasaka Pagoda – this is most photographed pagoda in Kyoto
- The Golden Temple
- Kiyomizu Dera.
- Nishiki Market: This food market is well worth the visit, the street food served at this market is unreal, from the freshest seafood to grills cooking up the famous wagyu and Kobe beef. In fact, we came here almost every dayit was that good!
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Osaka (Recommend 4 days)
The final days of your spectacular 2 weeks in Japan are reserved for Osaka, also known as Japan’s Kitchen. If you haven’t had enough opportunities to savour delectable Japanese dishes, here would be the perfect place to change that!
We suggest spending three to four days here as it will give you more than enough time to explore the city and its culinary scene, in addition to partaking in some day trips.
- Dotonbori: This is Osaka’s entertainment district where you’ll find dazzling lights and the location of the famous Glico running man as well as some of the most unique street food in the world!
- Osaka Castle: As one of the most iconic Japanese landmarks, visiting Osaka Castle is a must.
- Shinsekai Market: If you to experience the retro side of Japan, Shinsekai will provide the perfect picture for it. Definitely worth a visit for some unique pictures and again some amazing street food.
Day Trips From Osaka
Osakais a very well-connectedcity and you can experience many other parts of Japanjust being based here via JR rail network. We recommend the following day trips from Osaka.
- Nara: Here, you can marvel at some of the most majestic deers in their natural habitat. You’ll also get the chance to feed them!
- Hiroshima: Although this place has a devastating story, history buffs will enjoy being in the place that changed the world forever.
- Miyajima Island: If Torii gates on the ground weren’t enough for you, at Miyajima Island, you can even see a famous one in the water.
- Kobe: This one is pretty simple – to taste the best Kobe beef, head to Kobe!
What to experience something quite different?
If you’re looking to do something quite unique and memorable, I would suggest staying a night or 2 at a temple stay at the sacred Mount Koya.
Mount Koya is one of the holiest spots in Japan, at the top of the mountain is located a small village with lots of old historic temples surrounded by beautiful Japanese gardens which offer accommodation.
The temple stays are traditional Japanese accommodation which include sleeping on tatami mats, they include an awesome vegetarian breakfast and dinner made by the monks and guests are invited toprayer rituals in the morning.
Note that you will be staying in a temple, so must adhere to the rules of the temple and maintain respect and level of quietness whilst staying there.
In the village there are some amazing shrines and temples to visit, but the highlight is the fire ritual which occurs late at night at the holist temple on the mountain. To visit this ceremony, you must take a 30 min walk through the cemetery of1000 lanterns (which is truly a surreal experience) which then opens up to a vast temple complex which is surrounded by the sound of 100s of monks chanting and praying at the fire ritual.
Unfortunately, photography is not allowed at this site but this was one of my highlights of Japan, I genuinely felt like I was in a movie and this memory will always stay with me.
Getting to mount Koya, is not easy, you can get there from either Kyoto or Osaka, but it takes about 3hours and multiple trains. The views along this journey are breath taking and gives you an idea of rural Japan.
Despite the journey this experience is well worth it.
Recommended temples to stay.
- Ekoin
- Fudoin
- Jokiin
- Souji in
Tips to Know When Travelling to Japan
Going to Japan is exciting, but there are some things you must consider so you have a top-notch trip:
- Carry Cash: All major cities in Japan accept credit cards, but the country is still largely cash-based. Once you get to the airport to start your 2 weeks in Japan, make sure to exchange cash for yen. This is especially important if you plan to visit smaller areas or villages.
- Luggage transfer :This is an amazing service, available in Japan.This service transfers your luggage to your next hotel in time for when you check in and is reasonably priced. Taking away the stress of travelling around with your heavy bags.
This service is available from most hotel receptions and from the airport. (we used this a lot)
- Rent a pocket WIFI: WIFI is essential as your moving around in Japan, although most shops, restaurants and public buildings offer free WIFI, Having a pocket WIFI will allow you to connect to the internet when you’re out and about – this will help you navigate google maps to get around and plan journeys as well as using google translate if your Japanese is not up to scratch.
Pocket WIFI’s are very reasonably priced and can connect up to 10 users, they can be delivered to your hotel room or can be picked up at the airport and come with returns envelope which you simply post at the end of your trip.
- Be Polite: Japanese culture revolves around politeness. Bowing is a standard greeting, and simple phrases like “Arigatougozaimasu” (Thank you) go a long way. Don’t forget to keep your voice down when riding public transport—many Japanese people sleep or take a nap during their commute. And if you’re using headphones, ensure no noise is coming from them.
- Get a Japan Rail Pass: Japan’s public transportation system is efficient but can be complicated for foreigners. Purchase a Japan Rail Pass so you can save on extensive travel.
- Take Your Shoes Off Indoors: It’s customary to remove your shoes when entering indoors, like in a home, ryokan, etc.—even in some restaurants.
- Be Careful Where You Throw Your Trash: Public trash bins are very rare. Many people carry small bags to throw in the trash; smokers also carry portable ashtrays for their cigar buds. Recycling rules are strict, so pay attention.
- Onsen Etiquette: If you want to enjoy the hot springs (onsen), thoroughly clean and rinse before entering. Note that tattoos may be frowned upon (not small ones, but sleeves or body suits) in some onsen simply because they’re associated with the Yakuza, so double-check with the onsen policy.
- Mind the Queue Discipline: Japan values order and the same can be seen even in queues. If you want to enter some place, including public transport, you might have to wait your turn in an organized queue.
Many restaurants have long queues, don’t let it put you off, the longer the queue the better the restaurant.
- Consider When You’re Going: Before you hop on the plane and begin your 2 weeks in Japan, consider that Japan gets heaps of tourists, and many must see sights can become very crowded. The busy time of year for tourist is the Sakura (spring time to see the cherry blossom between end of March and April) and the in the Autumn fall (mid November to December)
- Wake up early: as mentioned above the crowds at most tourist sights get ridiculously busy even in the off season, to experience the sights with the least amount of people go early in the morning (arrive before 8am)
- Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: While many locals understand English, knowing a few basic Japanese phrases will not only help you get by but it will show your appreciation of the culture.
Is Knowing Japanese Crucial to Have a Good Stay?
Knowing the local language isn’t crucial to having a good stay in Japan. However, it can help you. Many Japanese hotels and shops have English signs—even the subways have “Exit” signs clearly displayed. But knowing basic phrases would ease the conversation if you plan on going to some rural areas or visiting smaller shops.
It will also help you to get to know the locals who can tell you more about the place or where to find interesting things and delicious food. Simple greetings and polite expressions should cover your trip.
Of course, you can use translation apps and get immediate translation to your voice. But Japanese people appreciate efforts to speak their language and get to know their culture, even if it is just a few words. So, before spending 2 weeks in Japan, consider the DuoLingo bird your best friend!
Final Words
If you want to get away from your usual setting and enter a whole new world definitely book a flight to Japan. This country is an oasis of marvels and a blend of modern, futuristic, and cultural. From the live energy of Tokyo to the tranquillity of Kyoto, each part of Japan has something to offer.
Use public transportation to go around the country and quickly move from one city to the other. Ensure to taste every bit of local cuisine you can, and try out everything that seems new and intriguing.
Whether you go in spring to see the cherry blossoms or visit in the middle of the summery sun rays, Japan captivates every traveller with its endless beauty. And we’re sure that once you step foot here, you’ll want to come back again!
If this simple 2 weeks in Japan guide was helpful to you, check out some of our other articles and read about travel to other destinations.
