17-23 Days: Explore the relatively unknown but gorgeous places in western Japan

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17-23 Days: Explore the relatively unknown but gorgeous places in western Japan

Our Recomendation

★★★★★ 5/5

Number of Days: 17-23 days
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Sub-destinations: Tokyo, Kamakura, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hiroshima, Hakata, Kumamoto, Kagoshima

Activities: Sightseeing, Temples, Nature, Food

Description: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the western part of Japan, relatively unknown to tourists

Day 1-3: Enjoy Tokyo

Day 1

Begin your day by visiting Asakusa and exploring Senso-ji Temple. Delve into the rich history of this ancient Buddhist temple, marvel at the grandeur of the Kaminarimon Gate, and wander through Nakamise Shopping Street, famous for its traditional snacks and souvenirs. Next, venture to the Imperial Palace East Gardens to immerse yourself in nature and relish the serene atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll, discovering the Ninomaru Garden and the remnants of Edo Castle.

In the afternoon, make your way to the vibrant district of Shibuya. Witness the iconic Shibuya Crossing, known as one of the world’s busiest intersections. Engage in a shopping spree at trendy shops, department stores, and fashionable boutiques. Don’t forget to pay homage to the beloved statue of Hachiko, the loyal dog. Experience the vibrant youth culture in Harajuku as you wander down Takeshita Street, renowned for its eccentric fashion stores and trendy cafes. Indulge in delectable crepes along the way.

Conclude the day with a delightful dinner in Tsukiji Fish Market or Yurakucho, savoring fresh sushi, seafood delicacies, or traditional Japanese cuisine. Capture the breathtaking panoramic view of the cityscape from Tokyo Tower and, if time permits, visit Zojoji Temple in Shiba Park.

Day 2

Embark on an exploration of the dynamic district of Shinjuku. Start your day with a visit to the tranquil Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of its gardens, serene ponds, and, during spring, the enchanting cherry blossoms. Take a leisurely stroll and bask in the peaceful ambiance. Continue to Kabukicho, the lively entertainment area. Wander through its vibrant streets adorned with neon lights, offering a plethora of entertainment venues and diverse dining options.

In the afternoon, dive into the world of technology and pop culture in Akihabara Electric Town. Explore numerous electronic shops, anime and manga stores, and gaming centers. Indulge in your hobbies, whether it’s collecting figurines, testing out the latest gadgets, or unearthing rare retro games.

In the evening, relish a captivating Kabuki performance at the National Theatre, immersing yourself in the traditions of classical Japanese theater. Admire the elaborate costumes, impressive stage sets, and unique acting style of Kabuki. Conclude your day with a farewell dinner in Tsukiji Fish Market or Ginza, savoring fresh sushi, sashimi, or exploring upscale dining options. Celebrate your time in Tokyo with a remarkable culinary experience. In the evening, embrace the vibrant nightlife in Roppongi, discovering trendy bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. Enjoy live music, dance performances, or simply unwind with a drink while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Day 3

Set out to explore the cultural hub of Ueno. Begin by immersing yourself in the treasures of Ueno Park, home to major museums and attractions such as the Tokyo National Museum, Ueno Zoo, and Shinobazu Pond. Immerse yourself in art, history, and the beauty of nature. Take a leisurely stroll along the bustling Ameya-Yokocho Market, located near Ueno Station. This vibrant market offers a wide variety of goods, including clothing, accessories, fresh produce, and street food. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and discover unique souvenirs or delectable snacks.

In the afternoon, return to Shibuya for a different experience. Ascend to the observation deck of Shibuya Scramble Square for panoramic views of the city, including the famous Shibuya Crossing. Explore the historic streets of Kagurazaka to discover the traditional side of Tokyo. Visit traditional tea houses, boutique shops, and experience a traditional tea ceremony.

In the evening, treat yourself to a culinary adventure at one of Tokyo’s famous food alleys. Visit Sumida River Yakitori Alley in Asakusa or Tsukiji Outer Market in Tsukiji, where you can indulge in a wide array of delicious street food and fresh seafood. Conclude your trip by experiencing Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife in Roppongi. Explore the lively bars, clubs, and entertainment venues, and enjoy live music performances, dance shows, or simply relax while immersing yourself in the energetic atmosphere. (Optional: Extra 2 days)

Day 4 (Optional)

Embark on a journey through the upscale district of Meguro. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Meguro River during cherry blossom season, and marvel at the breathtaking scenery and serene atmosphere. Visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum in Ueno Park to explore its diverse collection of Japanese and international artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and crafts. Immerse yourself in the world of art and appreciate the creativity on display.

In the afternoon, venture to Shinagawa to discover its modern architecture and vibrant shopping scene. Explore contemporary shopping complexes such as Aqua City Odaiba or the shopping area near Shinagawa Station, where you can indulge in retail therapy and enjoy a wide range of dining options. For a captivating experience, visit the teamLab Borderless digital art museum in Odaiba, where you can immerse yourself in interactive digital art installations that combine art and technology. Explore the mesmerizing exhibits and be amazed by the visual effects. In the evening, savor a memorable dining experience at one of Tokyo’s themed restaurants. Choose from a variety of options, including robot-themed restaurants, maid cafes, or ninja-themed establishments. Immerse yourself in the unique ambiance and enjoy the entertaining performances.

Day 5 (Optional)

On your final day, consider taking a day trip to the historic city of Kamakura, located just outside Tokyo, or visit Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea for a day filled with fun and adventure. In Kamakura, visit famous landmarks such as the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Explore the charming streets filled with traditional shops and cafes, and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the city.

Day 4: A visit to Kamakura for a day

Begin your day by embarking on a cultural journey through Kamakura, starting with a visit to the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine (鶴岡八幡宮). Take a leisurely stroll along the vibrant red torii gates and explore the shrine’s captivating grounds, including the main hall and the famous wooden bridge. Next, make your way to the awe-inspiring Great Buddha of Kamakura (Daibutsu), a magnificent bronze statue standing tall at over 13 meters. Marvel at its grandeur and take some time to appreciate the surrounding park. Continue your exploration with a visit to the serene Hase-dera Temple (長谷寺), renowned for its picturesque views and peaceful atmosphere. Take in the beauty of the temple’s gardens, pagoda, and the cave housing the Kannon statue. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy panoramic coastal vistas from the temple’s observation deck. For a taste of local culture and shopping, wander along Kamakura Komachi Dori, a charming street lined with unique boutiques, souvenir shops, and traditional snack vendors. Indulge in local delights like sweet potato treats or matcha-flavored snacks, and recharge with a traditional Japanese lunch at one of the cozy restaurants or tea houses. To further immerse yourself in Kamakura’s spiritual essence, visit the Kamakura-gu Shrine, known for its tranquil ambiance and enchanting gardens. Take a peaceful stroll through the shrine grounds, marvel at the traditional architecture, and embrace the serenity that surrounds you. If time allows, consider exploring other temples such as Engaku-ji Temple or Kencho-ji Temple to delve deeper into Kamakura’s rich cultural heritage and Zen traditions.

Day 5-7: 3 Days (and perhaps 2 more) in Kyoto

Day 1

Commence your Kyoto adventure by visiting the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Take a bus to Gojozaka and ascend the hill leading to the temple. While it’s a must-see, be prepared for a bit of walking. However, along the way, you’ll encounter various shops offering Kyoto souvenirs and food stalls serving local delicacies to keep you engaged. Upon reaching Kiyomizu-dera Temple, enjoy the stunning view, especially enchanting during the autumn season when the historic hillside architecture harmonizes with fall foliage. During your descent, don’t miss the opportunity to explore Ninnen-zaka and Sannen-zaka, picturesque hills adorned with charming shops that embody Kyoto’s essence. After immersing yourself in Kiyomizu-dera and its surroundings, head to Sanjusangendo Temple, a distinctive attraction housing 1001 statues of Kannon, a sight unlike any other. Nearby, the Kyoto National Museum preserves historical treasures from Kyoto’s era as an imperial capital, offering valuable insights into the city’s rich history. Wrap up your day by taking a bus to Yasaka Temple, renowned for hosting the Gion Matsuri festival. Following this, stroll across the bridge above the Kamogawa River, savoring the view of the serene river lined with restaurants featuring traditional architecture. You can even choose to relax by the riverbank if you’re feeling tired. Then, make your way to Nishiki Market, a lively street boasting an array of offerings, including seafood and Japanese knives, along with regional specialties. It’s a hub of around a hundred restaurants and shops, making it an ideal spot for a meal, although it tends to get crowded. Finally, visit the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, celebrated for its countless bright orange torii gates. To reach it, hop on the Keihan line to Fushimi-Inari station, but be prepared for potentially muddy paths, especially after rain. This shrine is a photographer’s paradise, so make sure to capture its beauty. Return to Kyoto for some well-deserved rest. If you’re seeking dining options, the Gion district offers a plethora of restaurants serving various cuisines. Alternatively, treat yourself to a traditional Kaiseki dinner, consisting of multiple small dishes followed by a main course.

Day 2

Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji: Embark on your second day with a trip to Arashiyama, a well-known destination famous for its enchanting bamboo forest. To avoid the crowds, arrive early. Arashiyama boasts not only natural beauty, including the Katsuragawa River and the Togetsukyo Bridge, but also souvenir shops selling local delights like Yatsuhashi sweets. Despite its popularity, this area offers a comprehensive experience with traditional souvenirs. Next on your itinerary is Tenryu-ji Temple, another prominent temple in Arashiyama. Consider exploring Atagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, which features numerous charming statues, each with unique facial expressions. It’s a 40-minute walk or a 15-minute bus ride away, but do check the bus schedule to minimize waiting time. Following this, take a taxi to Ryuan-ji Temple, famous for its iconic rock and pebble garden, a renowned Zen garden. Slightly to the north, you’ll find Kinkaku-ji Temple, often referred to as the “Golden Pavilion.” It’s a 20-minute walk from Ryuan-ji or a 10-minute bus ride, though buses can get crowded during peak tourist seasons. Renowned Japanese writer Yukio Mishima used Kinkaku-ji as a motif in an intriguing story, making it a worthwhile visit. Proceed to Daitoku-ji Temple, known for the Japanese tea ceremony and the presentation of Zen culture, similar to Ryuan-ji. Since these Day 2 destinations are relatively distant from central Kyoto, return there to recharge for the next day.

Day 3

Commence Day 3 in Kyoto with a visit to Ginkaku-ji Temple, often known as the “Silver Pavilion.” Despite not actually being silver, its name derives from the temple’s darker exterior. Despite its simplicity, it’s an essential architectural symbol of the Muromachi period, making it a recommended stop. Following your exploration of Ginkaku-ji, make your way to the Philosopher’s Path (Tetsugaku-no-Michi), a picturesque canal-side path. It’s particularly charming during cherry blossom season. At the path’s conclusion, you’ll encounter Zenrin-ji Temple, also known as Eikando Temple, a beautiful site, especially during autumn. It features a delightful pond and a traditional bridge, offering splendid photo opportunities. A bit further south, you’ll find Nanzen-ji Temple, another appealing temple surrounded by autumn foliage. Nanzen-ji boasts a rock garden akin to Ryuzen-ji Temple. Within its premises, you’ll come across a 19th-century aqueduct that once transported water from Lake Biwa in the neighboring Shiga Prefecture to Kyoto. Upon your return to the city center, consider visiting Heian Shrine, a spacious shrine adorned with a vibrant crimson facade, even though it lacks the historical significance of other locales. Upon reaching the city center, take a leisurely stroll as Kyoto’s charm lies in getting lost amid its beauty.

Day 4 (Optional)

Commence Day 4 with a visit to the renowned Byōdō-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its elegant Heian-period design. The Phoenix Hall, mirrored in a serene pond, creates an enchanting scene that almost seems otherworldly. While Japan has many grand temples, Byōdō-in stands out due to its unique and grand facade, making it famous and a primary reason for some visitors to Uji. Following this, proceed to the iconic Uji Bridge, offering picturesque views of the Uji River surrounded by lush greenery. Pause for a moment to relish the scenery and capture memorable photos. Next, visit Mimuroto-ji Temple, renowned for its stunning hydrangea displays in early summer. Even during the fall, the temple’s exquisite surroundings make it a worthwhile visit. If time permits, consider exploring Shōzū-in Temple, a lesser-known gem celebrated for its exquisite garden and tranquil ambiance. It features a room with a heart-shaped opening in the wall, providing views of the temple garden, a feature particularly appealing to younger visitors. During the summer, the temple adorns itself with Suzu (Japanese Bells) hanging from the arches, adding to its picturesque allure. Note that reaching Shōzū-in may require a 30-minute taxi ride due to its somewhat remote location. Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed afternoon, Uji is renowned for its Matcha culture. Explore one of Uji’s traditional teahouses to partake in the local Matcha experience, savoring a cup of Matcha tea paired with authentic sweets distinct from those in the Western world.

Day 5 (Optional)

Consider a brief excursion to Kibune Shrine and Kurayama for a delightful hiking experience. The hike is relatively gentle and not too distant, with both locations situated in close proximity. However, if you find the city center captivating, it might be more enjoyable to spend your time there, as traveling to Kibune and Kurayama would consume a significant amount of time. If you decide to embark on this optional adventure, begin your day by heading to Kibune Shrine and Kurayama. Kibune Shrine is known for its serene and spiritual ambiance, surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a peaceful hike in the Kurayama area, offering scenic views and a chance to connect with nature. The proximity of these locations makes them ideal for a day trip. These optional activities provide a pleasant escape from the city, but if you have a strong affinity for Kyoto’s urban charm, spending more time exploring its streets and hidden gems might be a rewarding alternative.

Day 8-9: 2 Days in Osaka

Day 1

Commence your Osaka adventure with a delightful exploration of the lively Shinsaibashi, known for its upscale brands, boutiques, and department stores. Take a leisurely stroll along Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street and enjoy the visual treat of window shopping. Move on to the iconic Dotonbori district, where you’ll be captivated by the dazzling billboards and tempted to try local street treats like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Capture a memorable photo with the Glico Running Man sign, an Osaka symbol. In the afternoon, delve into the city’s history by visiting Shitennoji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest temples founded in 593. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the nostalgic charm of Shinsekai, where the Tsutenkaku tower stands tall. Treat yourself to kushikatsu or taiyaki at the local eateries and embrace the district’s retro ambiance. As evening approaches, embrace the vibrant nightlife of Namba, with its plethora of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options, providing a taste of Osaka’s energetic after-dark scene.

Day 2

Begin your second day with a visit to the grand Osaka Castle, a historic symbol offering panoramic views from its main keep. Wander through the castle grounds, explore its museum, and, during cherry blossom season, savor the beauty of Osaka Castle Park. Continue your journey to the bustling Tenmangu district, where the lively Tenma Market awaits, filled with fresh produce, local snacks, and traditional goods. Satisfy your taste buds with Osaka’s renowned street food and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Move on to Umeda, a bustling shopping and entertainment district. Discover the underground shopping malls like Hep Five and Grand Front Osaka, offering an array of shops and dining experiences. For breathtaking vistas of Osaka, consider ascending to the Umeda Sky Building’s observatory deck on the 39th and 40th floors. In the afternoon, head to the Tempozan area by the sea. Explore the famous Kaiyukan aquarium or enjoy picturesque city and bay views from the ferris wheel. If time allows, consider visiting the Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, featuring tranquil gardens, a traditional Japanese Garden, and the impressive Tower of the Sun, a remarkable sculpture created by renowned artist Taro Okamoto.

Day 10-11: 2 Day trip to Nara

Day 1

Morning: Begin your day with a visit to Todai-ji Temple (東大寺), an esteemed UNESCO World Heritage site that houses the Great Buddha (大仏), one of Japan’s largest bronze statues. This temple is a must-visit during your stay. The Shosoin, an integral part of the temple, is renowned for its unique azekura-style (raised floor) architecture, designed to keep animals out and preserve treasures from the 8th century when Nara was Japan’s capital. Nara boasts numerous magnificent temples for this historical reason. Admire the grand architecture and serene ambiance of this ancient temple, conveniently located within Nara Park (奈良公園), a vast park famous for its freely roaming deer. Take the opportunity to interact with these gentle creatures and offer them special deer crackers available for purchase within the park. However, exercise caution and maintain a safe distance, especially during mating season, as some deer can become aggressive. Continue southeast to explore Kasuga Taisha Shrine (春日大社), known for its striking vermilion-colored structures and numerous stone lanterns adorning the pathways. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the forested trails, immerse yourself in the tranquility of the shrine, and visit one of the many temples and shrines nestled among cherry trees. Don’t forget to visit the Nara National Museum (奈良国立博物館), where you can admire ancient Japanese artifacts and statues. Afterward, make your way to the city center. Kofuku-ji, another renowned temple and UNESCO World Heritage site, was once considered one of the city’s most influential temples. The primary facade and pagodas are particularly impressive, so be sure to include it in your itinerary. Conclude your day by exploring Nara City Center. Wander through charming streets lined with traditional machiya (wooden townhouses) and savor local Nara specialties like kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves).

Day 2

In the morning, start your day with a visit to Toshodai-ji Temple (唐招提寺), a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Nara’s most significant temples, located to the southwest of the city center. Admire the exquisite architecture, tranquil gardens, and ancient Buddhist artifacts. Continue a bit further south to explore Yakushi-ji Temple (薬師寺), another UNESCO World Heritage site. Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of this ancient temple, celebrated for its splendid pagoda and picturesque gardens. (As mentioned earlier, Nara is abundant with temples!) You also have the option to visit the remains of Heijo-kyo, a former capital of Japan centuries ago. Apart from the gate, there isn’t much to see, so you can choose to skip it if you prefer. Beyond the destinations we’ve outlined, Nara offers numerous lesser-known yet captivating places to discover, ensuring you have a delightful time in Nara!

Day 12-13: 2 Days in Hiroshima

Day 1

Begin your day with a visit to the renowned Atomic Bomb Dome (原爆ドーム) and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum (広島平和資料館). These two sites stand as some of Hiroshima’s most famous landmarks and are undoubtedly worth exploring. Much like Nagasaki, Hiroshima houses a museum dedicated to the bombing, providing a deep perspective on the horrors of war and the profound impact it had on ordinary citizens. Considering the moving experience offered by the museum, it might be best to start there before heading to the Atomic Bomb Dome, allowing you to fully grasp the events that occurred less than a century ago. Afterward, head northeast to explore Hiroshima Castle (広島城). Delve into the castle’s grounds and enjoy panoramic city views from the observation deck. Hiroshima Castle is distinctive with its relatively darker facade compared to structures like Himeji Castle. It also radiates captivating beauty when illuminated, making an evening visit a viable option if your schedule allows. When hunger strikes, make your way to the bustling Hon-dori Shotengai Shopping Arcade (本通り商店街), a vibrant district offering a wide array of culinary delights, from delectable desserts to hearty meals. In Hiroshima, the standout local dish is Okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake cooked on a hot steel plate. Okonomiyaki means “cooked how you like it,” granting you the freedom to choose your preferred toppings. Trying it is highly recommended. If you have some spare time, consider a visit to Shukkei-en Garden (縮景園), a charming Japanese garden. Alternatively, if you prefer to soak in the atmosphere of Hiroshima at a leisurely pace, take a leisurely walk through the city’s streets.

Day 2

Start your second day by making your way to Miyajima. The ferry terminal, where you’ll catch the ferry to Miyajima, is approximately a 30-minute train ride from Hiroshima station. Upon reaching the ferry terminal, purchase your tickets for the ferry ride. Once you arrive on the island, head toward the main shrine and the iconic shrine gate partially submerged in the water. Along the way, you’ll find numerous enticing food stalls, each offering delectable treats. With limited stomach space, choose your culinary indulgences carefully. Hiroshima is famous for its oysters, making them a must-try delicacy. For those less keen on raw oysters, grilled options are also available. After a short walk, you’ll reach the main attraction, Itsukushima-jinja Shrine (厳島神社). Its fascinating feature is its tide-dependent positioning, making it appear to float in water or stand on land supported by columns, depending on the time of day. The island is also home to several other temples, including Daisho-in Temple (大聖院), perched on a hill overlooking the bay and Itsukushima-jinja Shrine. The view from this vantage point is truly magnificent, so if you plan a visit to Miyajima, consider including Daisho-in Temple in your itinerary. Keep in mind that the island is inhabited by numerous deer, adding to its charm, but exercise caution to avoid getting too close to them and potentially agitating them.

Day 14: A Day (or two) in Hakata

Day 1

Start your day in Fukuoka with a leisurely walk through the charming Ohori Park and Maizuru Park, followed by a visit to the historic Fukuoka Castle. These parks are beautiful year-round, with cherry blossom season being a particularly captivating time. At the heart of Ohori Park is a spacious pond, which was once part of Fukuoka Castle’s moat system. Graceful bridges connect three islands, making the path around the pond a favorite for locals to stroll, jog, and enjoy with their dogs. Along the way, you’ll find swan boats for rent and a cozy cafe, perfect for a morning coffee break. Cross the stone bridge to reach the central island, where a hexagonal, vivid red pavilion extends over the water. Continue your exploration over elegant stone bridges, circling the pond until you arrive at the Fukuoka Art Museum. Here, you can admire Buddhist statues from the 11th century and contemporary artworks by artists like Miro and Dali. Nearby, the exquisite Ohori Park Japanese Garden, designed by celebrated garden master Nakane Kinsaku, awaits your visit. This garden features a splendid main pond, a tranquil waterfall, a dry garden, and a traditional teahouse. Moving on to Maizuri Park, you’ll discover remnants of Maizuru Castle, which has historical ties to Fukuoka Castle dating back to the 17th century. While the castle is now in ruins, it offers unparalleled panoramic views of Fukuoka. For lunch, take a 20-minute stroll to Tenjin, where you’ll find a wide range of dining options, from delis and cafes to restaurants. While there, consider exploring the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum, which houses a diverse collection of contemporary and traditional art from various Asian countries, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts. In the afternoon, embark on a journey of temple and shrine exploration, immersing yourself in Japan’s rich spiritual heritage. Begin by crossing the Hakata River from Tenjin Central Park to reach Kushida Shrine, an intimate Shinto shrine with a history dating back to AD 757. (Beforehand, you might want to take a leisurely stroll through the Hakata Kawabata Shopping Arcade, a charming street filled with retro shops that evoke the vibes of the Showa period). This shrine plays a pivotal role in the Hakata Gion Yamakasa, a captivating summer festival. Continue your exploration with a visit to Tochoji Temple, founded in AD 806 by Kukai, the founder of the Shingon Buddhist sect. Tochoji Temple stands out with its colossal 10-meter-tall wooden Buddha statue and a striking five-story pagoda. Following this, venture to Shofukuji, Japan’s oldest Zen temple, established in 1195. While the temple’s buildings are not open to the public, its serene grounds, teahouse, and resident cats provide a tranquil setting. Conclude your day in the evening at Canal City, an impressive complex that combines shopping, dining, and entertainment. Even if you’re not typically a fan of shopping centers, you’ll be captivated by Canal City’s illuminated dancing fountains. Spanning five floors and built around a 200-meter artificial canal, the complex offers a diverse array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Don’t miss the mesmerizing ten-minute 3D projection show, a nightly highlight that combines sound and light with choreographed fountains. Make Canal City your final stop of the day, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. You’ll also find a great selection of restaurants. However, if you’re feeling more adventurous, consider having dinner at one of the ‘Yatai’ food stalls—mobile stalls scattered across districts like Tenjin, Nakasu, and Nagahama. Here, you can savor Hakata specialties such as ramen, gyoza, and motsunabe while immersing yourself in this cherished local culinary tradition. Mentaiko (spicy cod roe) and tonkotsu ramen are other Fukuoka specialties worth trying. Fukuoka’s cuisine is undeniably a highlight of your visit.

Day 2 (Optional): Excursion to Dazaifu

For those considering an additional day in Hakata, a day trip to Dazaifu is highly recommended. Dazaifu is a charming city located just outside of Fukuoka, known for its historical sites and serene atmosphere. Start your day by taking a train or bus from Hakata Station to Dazaifu, a journey that takes approximately 30 minutes. Upon arrival, visit Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, one of Japan’s most important shrines dedicated to the scholar Sugawara Michizane. Sugawara Michizane is considered a god of learning, and Japanese students from all over the country visit this shrine before important entrance exams for high school or university, hoping to perform well in their studies. Explore the beautiful grounds, admire the architecture, and experience the tranquil atmosphere. Take a stroll through the nearby shopping street, where you can find traditional sweets, souvenirs, and local delicacies. Don’t forget to try Umegae Mochi, a specialty sweet made from rice and red bean paste. Additionally, strawberries are a prominent local product in the Fukuoka prefecture, particularly the ‘Amaou (あまおう)’ brand, so indulging in desserts featuring these strawberries is a delightful option. Additional Activities for an Extended Stay: If you have more than one day to spare in Fukuoka, consider a visit to the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, particularly during late February to mid-March when the plum trees (ume) are in full bloom, creating a breathtaking sight of around 6,000 plum trees. Accessing the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine may require a bus excursion due to limited train options. In just one day, you can experience the best of Fukuoka with this well-crafted itinerary. Explore parks, shrines, temples, shopping districts, and fully immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this captivating city.

Day 15-16: 2 Days in Kumamoto

(Kumamoto is a challenging prefecture to navigate without a car. This itinerary is designed for visitors with a car.)

Day 1

Commence your day with a visit to the iconic Kumamoto Castle (熊本城). Immerse yourself in history as you explore the majestic architecture and beautiful gardens of the castle. This castle played a significant role during Japan’s feudal era, offering a glimpse into its grandeur. Notably, the castle was completed in 1588, and its unique feature is the imposing rock walls encircling it, designed to deter potential attackers. Following your visit, take a scenic drive to the Kuratake Shrine (倉岳神社), a picturesque temple situated atop a sacred hill that overlooks the sea, providing a truly majestic view. However, it’s a 2-hour drive, so you may also consider staying in the city. Nevertheless, the drive to the temple itself is a delightful experience, making it worth considering a visit. In terms of food, Kumamoto is renowned for its Kumamoto Ramen. Try the Kuro-Ma-Yu variety, which features black garlic oil drizzled on top of the soup.

Day 2

Begin your day with a drive to the Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine (上色見熊野座神社). Nestled in a serene forest, this unique temple offers a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature. However, be prepared for a small hike, as there are 280 steps leading to the temple. Within the vicinity, you’ll discover the Ugeto-Iwa (穿戸岩), a massive rock formation with a giant hole eroded by wind. Legend has it that it brings good luck, symbolizing that no matter how challenging things may seem, they are attainable when we persevere. Afterward, embark on a journey to the awe-inspiring Mount Aso (阿蘇山) and the Kusasenri-ga-hama (草千里がヶ浜), a field located near the crater. This active volcano complex offers a breathtaking landscape of calderas, craters, and lush meadows. If you visit on a clear day, consider taking a cable car ride to witness the awe-inspiring views from the summit. As previously mentioned, it is still an active volcano, so you may see smoke emanating from the crater. The drive around the mountain is stunning, so make sure to stop at nearby parking lots to capture beautiful pictures. Following this, continue north to visit the Nabegataki Park (鍋が滝公園). The park’s highlight is the mesmerizing Nabegataki Waterfall, dramatically cascading over a horseshoe-shaped cliff. It’s a picturesque spot perfect for relaxation and embracing the wonders of nature. After admiring the waterfall, head to Kurokawa Onsen (黒川温泉), a hot spring town exuding rustic charm and therapeutic onsens fueled by the geothermal activity near Mount Aso. Given its distance from Kumamoto, you may choose to spend a night in the town or return to Kumamoto. (If your plans involve heading elsewhere in Kyushu, such as Oita, staying in Kurokawa-Onsen can be a wise choice.)

Day 17-18: 2 Days (up to 3) in Kagoshima

Day 1

Commence your first day by visiting Sengan-en (仙厳園), a short 20-minute bus ride from the city center. This garden is renowned for its distinctive rock formations, reminiscent of those found in China. It was designed by a leader of the Shimazu clan in the 16th century, who aimed to capture the beauty of the landscapes near Kinko Bay and Sakurajima. Once you explore it, you’ll encounter a picturesque garden with breathtaking views overlooking the bay. The scene is truly stunning. Next, return to the city center and make your way to the Shiroyama Observatory deck (城山展望台) atop Mt. Shiroyama. Here, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city from its promenade and observation deck. The view of the city below, the bay, and the often-active Sakurajima, emitting fumes from its summit, is a sight worth beholding. In the afternoon, head to the Kagoshima City Museum of Meiji Restoration. In times past, the clan that ruled this region held immense influence in Japan and played a pivotal role in the Meiji Restoration. This museum offers valuable insights into the historical period of the 19th-century Meiji Restoration in Imperial Japan. It delves into the unique social structure, educational system, samurai loyalty, and sword techniques that contributed to Satsuma’s prominence as one of Japan’s leading provinces.

Day 2

Embark on your second day with a visit to Sakurajima, an active volcano with minor daily eruptions. Start at the Sakurajima Visitor Center, which provides a comprehensive overview of the volcano’s history, from its formation to contemporary eruptions. Through captivating exhibits, videos, models, and displays showcasing the regeneration of vegetation after eruptions, visitors gain a deep understanding of Sakurajima’s activity. The center even offers a shop where you can purchase fresh mandarins, and interestingly, tins of ashes from the volcano serve as souvenirs. It’s worth noting that Sakurajima was once an island, but a volcanic eruption connected it to the mainland via lava outflow, making it more accessible. If you seek excellent views from a relatively close vantage point, consider visiting the Arimura Lava Observatory. Open year-round, the observatory features a striking black pine forest and provides insight into the fascinating geological features of the surrounding landscape. (Optional) Day 3: Take a day trip to Chiran (知覧), about an hour away by car, renowned for its well-preserved samurai residences and exquisite gardens. Upon arrival in Chiran, explore the Chiran Peace Museum (知覧特攻平和会館), dedicated to preserving the history and memory of World War II kamikaze pilots. The museum offers a glimpse into the lives of these pilots and the circumstances surrounding their missions. While not widely known, the museum sheds light on the human side of the kamikaze pilots, featuring letters to their families and loved ones, along with their personal stories. Most of them embarked on their missions not out of desire but as a means to protect their loved ones. This museum is deeply moving, provoking contemplation about the horrors of war and the human toll on ordinary citizens, making it a highly recommended visit. Following this, take a leisurely stroll through the Chiran Samurai District (知覧武家屋敷), where you can admire the meticulously preserved samurai residences and gardens. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of feudal Japan as you wander along narrow streets lined with traditional houses and beautiful gardens.

Other Itineraries you might be interested in

A Cultural Day Trip to Kamakura

Our Recommendation

★★★★★ 4.5/5

A great travel option if you want to stay close to Tokyo

Number of Days: 1 day

Sub-destination: Kamakura

Best time to visit: All year

Activities:

While prices are generally cheap, this is perhaps not the case with transport costs. If you are seeking to maximize your time with limited money, Kamakura, which served as the capital centuries ago, may be a good idea.

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