Japan, a 3 weeks itinerary for travel lovers

Planning a trip to Japan can feel overwhelming.
You simply can’t see everything in this large and diverse country. Japan stretches over more than 3,000 kilometers from north to south, consists of thousands of islands, and is home to over 125 million people. So if you’re planning a 3 week itinerary through Japan, you’ll definitely need to make some choices.

The route we followed is a perfect introduction to the country, especially if it’s your first time visiting. It covers some of the most well-known places — yes, the obvious ones — but they’re popular for a reason. They’re also just challenging enough to give you a real sense of adventure.

These destinations have a lot to offer, and you’ll be able to take full advantage of Japan’s excellent public transport network. Japan is incredibly well-organized — you’ll notice that very quickly. And that works in your favor. Traveling in Japan feels effortless, almost like the country is guiding you along the way.

It’s like all the puzzle pieces are already laid out, you just have to arrange them to make the journey your own.

There are a few important things that you have to know before you go to Japan. You read all about it here!

Tokyo

Most trips through Japan start in Tokyo and so did our 3 week itinerary.
We arrive at Haneda Airport, one of Tokyo’s two international airports. From there, it’s easy to reach your hotel using public transportation.

The airport shuttle bus, which brings us directly to our hotel is our best transportation option. We buy tickets at the bus stop. We stay at The Knot Tokyo, a great base to start exploring the city. It is a specious hotel with a restaurant and a bakery at the ground floor. This is a popular one, so if you want to stay here you have to book early!

We deliberately choose not to spend too much time in Tokyo at the beginning of our trip.
Two days is enough for us. With jet lag, it’s not ideal to rush through a busy city trying to see as much as possible. That’s why we also plan two extra days in Tokyo at the end of our trip.

During the first two days, we take it slow, without feeling like we are missing out on anything. It gives us time to adjust, get into the rhythm of Japan, and ease into the adventure ahead.

Getting around in Tokyo: Tips for using the Metro and Bus

Tokyo is a vast city made up of many distinct neighborhoods. Getting around on foot alone simply isn’t an option. Luckily, the city has an excellent metro network, and the bus system is also a convenient way to explore. We used both during our stay.

The easiest way to navigate is by using Google Maps. Just enter your destination and it will show you all possible routes, including metro and bus connections.

When taking the bus in Tokyo, you pay when you get on. Note that in some other Japanese cities, you pay when you get off! For the metro, you purchase a ticket for a specific line. You’ll see several fare options, but it’s best to choose the cheapest one. If you’ve underpaid, no worries—you can simply pay the difference at your destination without any extra charges or fines.

If you plan on using the metro frequently, you can buy a day pass or even a multi-day pass at the same vending machines. There are also combination passes for both bus and metro, so you can pick whatever suits your travel plans best.

Public transport in Tokyo is very affordable. For example, a one-day metro pass costs around €4.60 per person.

Tokyo’s metro system has multiple lines, and one of the most useful is the red Oedo Line, which forms a loop through the city. When choosing your accommodation, try to stay near a station on this line—it will make getting around much easier!

Both of our Tokyo stays – The Knot Tokyo, where we began our journey, and Candeo Roppongi, where we ended our 3 weeks itinerary in Japan – were conveniently located near Oedo Line stations.

What to see and to do in Tokyo?

To me, Tokyo definitely has some New York vibes – buzzing, dynamic, and full of energy. However, it’s also a city with numerous green spaces and a diverse range of attractions. In short: it’s a place you won’t get bored with anytime soon.

Of course, there are a few no-brainers like Shibuya Crossing and the Tokyo Tower. But what makes Tokyo truly special are those unexpected spots where you feel like you’ve stepped into a completely different world.

Want to know which places stole our hearts? Read this article and find out!

Hotel Tip: The Knot Tokyo, Candeo Hotels Tokyo Roppongi

Mount Fuji

Our plan was to take the train from Shinjuku Station to Kawaguchiko. But once we arrived, we discovered that a bus from the terminal just across the street was both faster and cheaper. So, we changed plans on the spot. Five minutes later, we were on our way—riding a comfortable bus to Kawaguchiko for just 3500 yen per person. The journey took about 1.5 hours.

From the station, we walked to our hotel, Kawaguchiko Hotel, beautifully located right by the lake. Later that day, we took a short sightseeing cruise on Lake Kawaguchiko, followed by a ride on the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway to a viewpoint at about 1,075 meters elevation.

You can buy a convenient combo ticket for both the boat cruise and the ropeway. Unfortunately, the weather didn’t cooperate that day. The views of the lake and surrounding hills were stunning. However, the 3776 meters high Mount Fuji remained hidden behind the clouds.

Bike tour

The next day, we rented bikes in the center of Kawaguchiko, a great way to explore the area at your own pace.
Tip: the region is quite hilly, so we highly recommend choosing electric bikes!

Our first stop was the iconic Chureito Pagoda, one of the most famous viewpoints in the area. After biking there, we climbed the 398 steps to the top. Unfortunately, the summit of Mount Fuji was still hidden in the clouds, but the views of the pagoda and the surrounding scenery were well worth the effort.

We continued on to another popular viewpoint on Honcho Street, hoping for a glimpse of the mountain’s peak, but eventually accepted that Fuji-san wouldn’t show herself that day. Instead, we let go of the chase and simply enjoyed a peaceful ride around Lake Kawaguchiko, taking in the beauty of the landscape.

Mount Fuji

Luckily, we didn’t have clouds the entire time. The sun came out, and we decided to take the bus from Kawaguchiko Station to the 5th Station of Mount Fuji. The ride takes about 50 minutes and brings you up to an altitude of 2,305 meters (7,562 ft).

This is the starting point of the Yoshida Trail, one of the most popular routes to the summit of Mount Fuji. To begin the hike, you need to pay a mandatory 4,000 yen fee. The entrance gate closes once 4,000 hikers have started for the day, so make sure to go early if you plan to climb.

There are many mountain huts along the way up, but advance reservations are required. We had hoped to hike just a short stretch of the trail, but unfortunately, that’s not possible without paying the full fee. Still, there’s plenty to see at the 5th Station itself.

You’ll find scenic viewpoints, a beautifully located shrine, and of course, a row of souvenir shops. And yes, this is a very popular spot, so don’t expect to have it to yourself.

Hiking season officially runs from early July to late August, so if you’re visiting Japan in that window, this is definitely a place to put on your list of best things to do near Mount Fuji!

Hotel Tip: Kawaguchiko Hotel

Restaurant Tip: Le pain de Daniel, Tocoro, Tsujiya

Takayama

How to get to Takayama

Bus or Train

The next stop on our 3 weeks Japan itinerary was the charming mountain town of Takayama. While most travelers take the train from Tokyo to Takayama, we originally planned to backtrack from Kawaguchiko to Tokyo and continue by train from there.

But by chance, we discovered a much more convenient option! The bus company Limon offers a direct bus service between Kawaguchiko and Takayama. They call it part of their “Golden Route”, and it’s a game-changer for travelers looking to save both time and money. This route is faster than going back to Tokyo first and significantly cheaper.

Tickets can only be booked online via the official Limon website. We booked just one day in advance and had no trouble finding available seats. However, during peak travel season, it’s highly recommended to book early to secure your spot!

From Takayama station it was a 10 minutes walk to our hotel, Wat Hotel & Spa. A perfect spot to stay, with an onsen to relax and free ice creams and marsh mellows at night!

Rental car

Another popular way to travel through this region is by renting a car. The roads in Japan are in excellent condition, making driving a smooth experience. Keep in mind, however, that in Japan people drive on the left side of the road, something European drivers may need a little time to adjust to.

Driving through the Japanese Alps means navigating narrow, winding mountain roads, but the reward is breathtaking views and the freedom to stop wherever you like.

Rental cars are surprisingly affordable, and comparing prices is quick and easy through platforms like Rentalcars.com.

Important tip: Most travelers will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent and drive a car in Japan. Make sure to arrange this before your trip, as it cannot be issued in Japan.

Highlights of Takayama

Takayama is a charming mountain town where everything is easily explored on foot. Don’t expect a long list of blockbuster attractions. Instead, Takayama offers cozy streets, traditional wooden houses, and authentic Japanese vibes. This smaller, less touristy city is the perfect place to slow down, wander through the old town, and soak up the atmosphere at a relaxed pace.

Old Town

Nestled in the heart of Takayama, the Sanmachi Suji Historic District, also known as Takayama Old Town, is where you’ll find a beautifully preserved slice of old Japan. The area thrived during the Edo Period (1603–1868). It served as a hub for merchants and artisans. It still retains its historic character today.

• Timeless Streetscape: Three main streets are Kamiichino‑machi, Kamininomachi, and Kamisanno‑machi. They are lined with traditional wooden merchant houses (machiya). These houses feature dark lattice facades and low roofs and they once belonged to merchants trading timber, sake, and crafts.
• Local Brews & Tastes: Look for sugidama (cedar branch balls) above sake breweries, a local tradition. Some breweries offer tastings, and the street food is vibrant. You’ll find specialties like Hida beef sushi, mitarashi dango and more.
• Arts & Crafts: Discover shops selling Sarubobo charms (traditional “baby monkey” dolls), handmade wooden chopsticks (yes, we bought our chopsticks souvenirs here!) and beautiful woodblock prints.
• The Takayama Jinya, a former Edo-era government office, sits just beyond Sanmachi Suji. With a modest entry fee, it offers insight into local administration history. Also nearby are heritage homes and museums like Yoshijima Heritage House and Kusakabe Folk Crafts Museum.
• Retro Museum: the most fun museum of our entire trip!

Hida no sato

Hida no Sato is an open-air museum just outside Takayama, showcasing traditional houses from the region, including the famous gassho-zukuri farmhouses with their steep thatched roofs. The village gives a glimpse into rural life in the Japanese Alps.

You can stroll through old workshops, watch craft demonstrations, and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. It’s easy to reach with a 10-minute bus ride from JR Takayama Station. We walked to Hida no sato, it was only 30 minutes!

Morning Market

Takayama is famous for its Asaichi, or morning markets, held daily from around 7 a.m. until noon. The two main markets are Miyagawa Market along the river and Jinya-mae Market in front of Takayama Jinya.

You’ll find fresh produce, local snacks, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. Arrive early for the best atmosphere and freshest products. Don’t expect this to be spectacular and avoid being disappointed like we were!

Shiroyama

Shiroyama Park is located on a hill right next to the city center, just a short walk from the old town. A scenic path of about 3 kilometers circles the hill, offering a peaceful place for a stroll.

If you walk to the top, you’ll find the ruins of Takayama Castle. While the ruins themselves aren’t particularly impressive, the view from the top certainly is. On the hill, you’ll also come across Shoren-ji Temple and Shiroyama Gobo, though they aren’t worth a special detour. However, the Hida Gokoku-jinja Shrine at the base of the hill definitely is worth a visit.

Hotel Tip: Wat Hotel & Spa

Restaurant Tip: Menya Shirakawa, Brand new day coffee, Otafuku, Suchicho

Kyoto

How to get to Kyoto

From Takayama, we continued our journey toward Kyoto. Once again, you have the choice between bus and train. This time, we opted for the comfort of the train.

A direct train runs from Takayama to Kyoto in about 4 hours. You can also travel via Nagoya, but that option requires a transfer. The direct route winds through the mountains, offering beautiful views along the way. Even though it’s not a Shinkansen line, the level of comfort is still excellent.

We stay at the Asia Hotel in the city. It’s within walking distance of the station, yet quietly tucked away on a small street parallel to the main road. The hotel also has an excellent in-house restaurant, so we don’t need to look for a place to eat dinner.

About Kyoto

Kyoto was once the imperial capital of Japan and it is a city where tradition and modern life blend seamlessly. Kyoto is widely regarded as the cultural capital of Japan, with over 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to explore.

It’s also a vibrant university city. Approximately one in ten residents is a student, which keeps the city youthful and animated.

Despite its size and population, Kyoto has preserved the charm of authentic Japan, thanks in part to strict building regulations. No structure in the city may exceed 34 meters in height, which helps maintain its traditional skyline.

Today, you might still catch glimpses of geishas walking through Gion, and immerse yourself in local rituals and performances. Kyoto boasts a wealth of heritage. These include iconic landmarks like Kinkaku‑ji (Golden Pavilion), Kiyomizu‑dera, Nijō Castle, Ginkaku‑ji, Tenryū‑ji, and Shimogamo-jinja, to name just a few of them.

Fun fact: In Kyoto, there are around 140,000 taxis, all marked with a small three-leaf clover on their signage. However, only four taxis in the entire city feature a four-leaf clover. If you’re lucky enough to ride in one of these rare taxis, you’ll receive a certificate and a few small gifts as a keepsake of your unique experience.

Activities and highlights

You’ll need at least three days in Kyoto to see the main highlights. And it’s not just about temples, Kyoto also offers charming neighborhoods, beautiful parks, and unique experiences. A traditional tea ceremony is something you definitely shouldn’t miss. Read more about it here!
Discover more about all the amazing things to do in Kyoto right here.

Hotel Tip: Asai (book early if you want to stay in this hotel!!)

Hiroshima

The city

Hiroshima was a must-visit for us on our 3-week Japan itinerary. The city reflects one of the darkest chapters in our history — and that’s exactly why it’s so important not to skip it. What happened in Hiroshima should never happen again.

With the Shinkansen, you can reach Hiroshima from Kyoto in just over an hour and a half. From the station, we take the bus that stops right in front of our hotel, The Knot Hiroshima. The hotel is located next to the Peace Park, making it the perfect base to spend enough time here and visit all the monuments. Every site carries deep meaning and symbolism.

Free walking tour

To truly understand the stories behind each monument, we join a free walking tour. The concept is simple: you show up at a set place and time, a guide takes you around, and at the end, you tip based on how satisfied you are. The advantage of a free tour is that the guides are usually very passionate, which makes the tours truly engaging.

The Peace Memorial Park is the heart of Hiroshima’s remembrance. One of its most striking landmarks is the Atomic Bomb Dome. It is the skeletal remains of the building that withstood the blast. It is preserved as a powerful symbol of resilience and a reminder of the devastation. The Peace Memorial Museum is a must visit. It presents personal stories, artifacts, and historical context. This helps visitors understand the full impact of that day. Nearby, the Children’s Peace Monument honors the thousands of children who lost their lives. It is inspired by Sadako Sasaki and her thousand paper cranes. Every monument here tells a story, each one carrying a deep message of peace and hope for the future.

We are deeply moved by all the stories we hear. Adding to the somber mood, it rains all day, a fitting backdrop for such a powerful experience.

Other highlights of Hiroshima

Beyond the Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima has a few other interesting places:

• Hiroshima Castle (Carp Castle), A reconstructed castle surrounded by a moat and beautiful gardens. Inside, you’ll find a museum about Hiroshima’s history before the atomic bombing.
• Shukkeien Garden, A serene Japanese garden featuring miniature landscapes, tea houses, and seasonal beauty.
• Okonomimura, A multi-story food hall dedicated to Hiroshima’s famous dish, okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), where you can taste different variations from local vendors.
• Hondori Shopping Arcade, A covered shopping street filled with boutiques, souvenir shops, and local treats.

Miyajima

Not far off the coast of Hiroshima lies the small island of Miyajima. From Hiroshima, you can take a boat directly to the island. In about 45 minutes, you’ll arrive at Miyajima. Keep in mind, however, that the boat does not operate at low tide!

A cheaper way to reach the island is by taking the train to Miyajimaguchi, which takes about 30 minutes. From there, you can hop on the ferry, and just 10 minutes later you’ll be on Miyajima.

One of Miyajima’s most iconic sights is the Itsukushima Shrine with its world-famous floating torii gate. At high tide, the gate appears to float gracefully on the water. This is one of Japan’s most photographed scenes. At low tide, you can actually walk out to the base of the torii for a closer look.

For those who love hiking and scenic views, Mount Misen is a must. You can take the ropeway most of the way up and then follow a short trail to the summit. We walked the entire way up because the ropeway was under maintenance. This hike almost got me! On a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the Seto Inland Sea.

All around the island, you’ll notice the friendly deer roaming freely. They’re used to people, but remember not to feed them as they can become a little too curious!

Tip: Check the tide schedule before your visit to experience the torii gate at both high and low tide.

Hotel Tip: The Knot Hiroshima

Osaka

Our last stop on this 3 weeks itinerary in Japan is Osaka. It’s an easy 2-hour Shinkansen ride from Hiroshima. We stay in hotel Noum, close to Osaka Castle and a few metro stops from the busy hart of the city.

Osaka is Japan’s lively food capital, but for us, it didn’t capture the same magic as Tokyo or Kyoto. The city has its own charm, especially with its neon-lit streets and famous food scene, but our main reason for stopping here was to visit the World Expo.

That said, Osaka still offers some interesting spots if you have time. Dotonbori is a must for its colorful atmosphere and endless food stalls. Osaka Castle provides a touch of history, while Umeda Sky Building offers a panoramic view over the city.

For travelers planning a longer stay, Osaka can also serve as a base for day trips to Nara, Himeji, or Universal Studios Japan.

Hotel Tip: Noum

Restaurant tip: Osaka Engine

FAQ – 3-Week Train Trip Through Japan

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