Planning your first 2 week Japan itinerary can feel like trying to solve a puzzle with a million pieces. I’ve been there. After six trips, I’ve made the mistakes, ridden the wrong trains, and stood in the wrong lines. But I’ve also perfected what I believe is the ultimate 14-day Japan itinerary for first-timers. This isn’t just a list of places; it’s my personal, field-tested roadmap that balances the neon futurism of Tokyo with the serene beauty of Kyoto. I’ll walk you through my day-by-day plan, my transport secrets (including the truth about the JR Pass), and my accommodation strategy to help you craft your own unforgettable journey through Japan.
Before You Go: My Essential Japan Pre-Trip Checklist
A great trip to Japan starts with solid preparation. Here’s the checklist I use before every visit to ensure a smooth arrival.
- Visa & Entry: For US citizens, a tourist visa is not required for stays up to 90 days. I just need to make sure my passport is valid. Before landing, I always complete the “Visit Japan Web” online form to get my QR codes for immigration and customs. It saves so much time.
- Cash is Still King: While credit cards and mobile payments (like Apple Pay) are becoming more common, Japan is still very much a cash society. Many smaller restaurants, temples, and market stalls are cash-only. I always aim to have at least 30,000 to 50,000 JPY on hand. I get this from a 7-Eleven ATM right at the airport upon arrival for the best rates.
- Connectivity (eSIM/Pocket WiFi): I need to be connected for Google Maps. On my recent trips, I’ve switched from renting a Pocket WiFi to using an eSIM from a provider like Airalo or Ubigi. I find it much more convenient than carrying (and charging) another device. I usually buy a 15-day/20GB plan.
- IC Card (Suica/Pasmo): This is non-negotiable. The moment I land, I add a digital Suica card to my Apple Wallet. This is my key to the entire country’s local transport system—subways, buses, you name it. It’s a lifesaver.
- Essential Apps: I rely on a few key apps:
- Google Maps: My absolute lifeline for train schedules, platform numbers, and walking directions. It’s incredibly accurate in Japan.
- Tabelog: This is Japan’s version of Yelp, and it’s how I find amazing local restaurants that aren’t tourist traps. I use the Google Chrome translation feature to read reviews.
- VoiceTra: A great voice translation app for those moments when sign language fails.
My Ultimate 14-Day Japan Itinerary: The Golden Route
This Japan 2 week itinerary follows the classic “Golden Route,” which is the perfect introduction to the country. I’ve designed it for an “Osaka in, Tokyo out” journey (or vice versa), which I find to be the most efficient way to see everything without backtracking. For this walkthrough, we’ll start in the electric capital, Tokyo.
Part 1 (Days 1-4): Tokyo – The Electric Heart of Modern Japan
I always give myself at least four full days in Tokyo. It’s a city of cities, and even that barely scratches the surface.
Day 1: Arrival & Shinjuku’s Neon Glow
After landing at Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND), my first task is to get to the city. I usually take the Narita Express or Limousine Bus. I drop my bags at the hotel (I prefer staying in Shinjuku or Shibuya for convenience) and dive right in. My first evening is always spent exploring the Shinjuku area: watching the city lights from the free observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, getting lost in the Golden Gai’s tiny bars, and seeing the neon-drenched streets of Kabukicho.
Day 2: Tradition and Pop Culture
This is a day of contrasts. I start my morning in Asakusa to visit the ancient Sensō-ji Temple and the bustling Nakamise-dori market. Afterwards, I head to the nearby Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views. In the afternoon, I pivot to pure pop culture in Harajuku, walking down the crowded Takeshita Street, and then to the iconic Shibuya Crossing. Watching the “scramble” from the second floor of the Starbucks is a must-do. For an even better view, I always pre-book tickets for the Shibuya Sky observation deck at sunset.
Day 3: Art, Imperial Grounds, and Otaku Paradise
I start with a peaceful walk through the Meiji Jingu shrine and Yoyogi Park. Then, I head towards the Imperial Palace East Garden, the former site of Edo Castle. In the afternoon, it’s a completely different world: Akihabara, the “Electric Town.” Even if you’re not a huge anime fan, the energy, arcades, and sheer sensory overload are an experience in itself.
Day 4: Day Trip to Kamakura
I love taking a day trip out of the city’s hustle. My favorite is Kamakura, a seaside town just an hour south of Tokyo. I visit the Great Buddha (Kotoku-in), wander through the bamboo grove at Hokoku-ji Temple, and, of course, visit the famous “Slam Dunk” railway crossing at Kamakurakōkōmae Station. It’s a breath of fresh air.
Part 2 (Day 5): Hakone – Onsen, Volcanoes, and a View of Fuji
After Tokyo’s intensity, I find a one-night stay in Hakone to be the perfect reset. I send my large luggage ahead to my Kyoto hotel using the amazing *takkyubin* (luggage delivery service) from my Tokyo hotel, and travel with just an overnight bag. My day in Hakone is spent doing the “Hakone Loop”: riding a mountain railway, a cable car up to the volcanic Owakudani valley (to eat a black egg!), and taking the pirate ship across Lake Ashi, hopefully catching a glimpse of Mount Fuji. The highlight is staying in a traditional *ryokan* (Japanese inn) and soaking in a private *onsen* (hot spring bath).
Part 3 (Days 6-9): Kyoto – The Soul of Ancient Japan
I take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Odawara (near Hakone) to Kyoto. Kyoto requires time and patience; it’s a city for wandering.
Day 6: Exploring Eastern Kyoto
This is my favorite walking day. I start at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, with its incredible wooden stage overlooking the city. From there, I walk down the preserved streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, browse the shops, and continue on to Yasaka Shrine and the famous Gion district, keeping an eye out for geishas. To make this day extra special, I often rent a kimono for a few hours. Exploring these ancient streets in traditional wear is a magical experience that makes you feel connected to the city’s past, a feeling I’ve rarely found elsewhere, not even in historic European cities like Bern.
Day 7: The Golden Pavilion & Zen Gardens
I start my day at the stunning Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), which is best seen in the morning light. Afterwards, I head to the Ryōan-ji Temple to contemplate its famous Zen rock garden. In the afternoon, I might explore Nishiki Market for a culinary adventure or take a walk along the Philosopher’s Path.
Day 8: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Fushimi Inari
I go to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove *early*—I mean, at sunrise, before 7 AM. This is the only way to experience its otherworldly serenity without the crushing crowds. After exploring Arashiyama, including the Tenryu-ji Temple and the Monkey Park, I head to the opposite side of the city in the afternoon to visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its thousands of red torii gates. I find the crowds are more manageable here later in the day, and walking the mountain paths as dusk settles is incredible.
Day 9: Free Day or Northern Kyoto
I use this day to either revisit a favorite spot, go shopping, or explore further afield. A great option is a trip to the northern temples like Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) or the remote Sanzen-in Temple.
Part 4 (Day 10): Nara – A Day Trip Among Sacred Deer
From Kyoto, Nara is an easy 45-minute train ride. My whole day is spent in Nara Park, feeding the famously polite (and sometimes pushy) deer, visiting the massive bronze Buddha inside Todai-ji Temple, and seeing the beautiful lanterns at Kasuga Taisha Shrine. It’s a perfect, easy-going day trip.
Part 5 (Days 11-13): Osaka – The Nation’s Kitchen
I take a quick 30-minute train from Kyoto to Osaka, a city with a completely different energy—it’s loud, fun, and all about food.
Day 11: Dotonbori’s Culinary Chaos
I drop my bags and head straight for Dotonbori, Osaka’s famous food and entertainment district. I spend my evening on a food crawl (*kuidaore* – to eat oneself into ruin), trying takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu. The sensory overload of the giant neon signs, including the Glico Running Man, is quintessential Japan for me.
Day 12: Universal Studios Japan or City Exploration
For theme park fans like me, a full day at Universal Studios Japan (USJ), especially Super Nintendo World, is a must. If parks aren’t your thing, this day is perfect for exploring Osaka Castle, the Shinsekai district with its Tsutenkaku Tower, and the Shitennoji Temple.
Day 13: Free Day & Last-Minute Shopping
I use my last full day for souvenir shopping in the Shinsaibashi-suji shopping arcade, exploring the trendy Amerikamura district, or visiting the Umeda Sky Building for one last panoramic city view.
Part 6 (Day 14): Departure from Osaka
I enjoy one last Japanese breakfast, do some last-minute snack shopping at a convenience store, and then head to Kansai International Airport (KIX) for my flight home. The Haruka Express train is my preferred way to get there.
Transportation Deep Dive: My JR Pass Strategy for a Two Week Itinerary
The Japan Rail Pass is a big topic. After its price hike, it’s no longer an automatic “yes” for my 2 week itinerary in Japan.
- When I DO Buy the 7-Day Pass: For this specific itinerary, I activate a 7-day JR Pass on Day 5 when I travel from Hakone to Kyoto. This will cover my expensive Shinkansen ride, my trips to Nara and Arashiyama, and my final journey to Osaka. I use it heavily for 7 days, and then it expires. This is the most cost-effective way I’ve found.
- When I DON’T Buy a Pass: If my itinerary were slower, with fewer long-distance trips packed into one week, I would buy my Shinkansen tickets individually using the SmartEX app. I always do the math before my trip to be sure.
My Accommodation Strategy: Where I Stay and Why
For a 14 day Japan itinerary, choosing the right hotels in the right locations is critical to saving time and energy. I always prioritize being within a 5-minute walk of a major train station.
Here are examples of hotels I’ve stayed at and can recommend, which represent the style I look for:
- Osaka: Art Hotel Osaka Bay Tower. I chose this for its incredible views and its prime location for accessing both USJ and the city center.
- Kyoto: Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Shijokarasuma. A perfect example of a solid, clean, and supremely well-located Japanese business hotel.
- Tokyo: Nest Hotel Tokyo Hanzomon. A great-value find in a quiet but central neighborhood, right next to a subway station, which made getting around a breeze.
A Look at My Budget: What a 2 Week Trip in Japan Really Costs
A Japan travel itinerary for 14 days can vary wildly in cost. Based on my “mid-range” travel style reflected in this itinerary, here is a realistic budget table per person, excluding international flights.
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | My Personal Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (13 nights) | $1,500 – $1,800 | Average of about $125/night for well-located 3-star hotels. |
| Transportation | $450 – $550 | Includes a 7-Day JR Pass (~$330) and daily subway fares on other days (~$15/day). |
| Food & Drink | $840 – $1,120 | Budgeting $60-$80 per day. A mix of convenience store breakfasts, ramen lunches, and nice izakaya dinners. |
| Activities & Entrance Fees | $250 – $350 | Covers USJ/Disney, major temples, observation decks, and smaller sights. |
| Total Estimated Cost | $3,040 – $3,820 | This is a comfortable, realistic budget for this two week Japan itinerary. |
My Final Pro-Tips for Your Japan in Two Weeks Itinerary
After many trips, these are the little things I’ve learned that make a huge difference.
- Pack Light, or Use Luggage Forwarding: Moving between cities every few days with a giant suitcase is a nightmare on crowded trains. I either pack in a carry-on or use the brilliant *takkyubin* service at my hotel to send my main bag to my next major destination for about $20. It’s the best travel hack in Japan.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: My daily step count in Japan regularly exceeds 20,000. This is a walking trip. Good shoes are not optional. This is as true in Japan as it is for a walking tour of Seville. Also, check out our guide on what to wear in Japan for more packing tips.
- Carry a Small Trash Bag: Public trash cans are incredibly rare. I carry a small plastic bag in my backpack to hold my trash until I get back to my hotel or a train station.
- Don’t Be Afraid of Convenience Stores: 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart are my secret weapon for cheap, high-quality breakfasts (get the egg salad sandwich!), coffee, and snacks. I love trying all the unique drinks, like a refreshing Hokkaido milk tea.
- Tattoos and Onsen: Be aware that many public onsen (hot springs) still do not allow guests with tattoos. If you have tattoos, I recommend booking a ryokan with a private onsen to avoid any issues.