Classic 21-Day Route in Japan: Explore the essence of Japan

A three-week trip to Japan is an ideal opportunity to explore its contrasts between dynamic cities, grandiose natural sites and rooted traditions. This classic itinerary guides you through the must-sees of the country while offering moments of pause to immerse yourself in Japanese authenticity.

Tokyo: The multi-faceted metropolis (Days 1-5)

Start your trip to Tokyo, a vibrant city that embodies innovation while remaining deeply committed to its traditions.

Neighborhoods not to be missed

• AsakusaDiscover the Senso-ji temple, symbol of Tokyo’s history, and walk through the Nakamise shopping street.
• Shinjuku and Shibuya: Feel the urban energy between skyscrapers, neons and the famous Shibuya crossroads.
• OdaibaSee Tokyo Bay and explore futuristic attractions like TeamLab Planets.

Excursions around Tokyo

Visit Nikko, famous for its adorned shrines, or Kamakura for its peaceful temples and the Great Buddha.

Food Tokyo

Do not miss the sushis at the Toyosu market, the ramens in the small local restaurants and traditional sweets in the wagashi-ya.

Hakone and Mount Fuji: Relaxation and sublime landscapes (Days 6 to 7)

A short distance from Tokyo, Hakone is renowned for its hot springs and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Get on board a cable car to admire the Owakudani Valley, and enjoy a bath in an onsen after a day of discovery.

Kyoto: Diving into Japanese Tradition (Days 8-12)

Kyoto is Japan’s cultural capital, offering a unique setting for exploring temples, shrines and historic neighborhoods.

emblematic sites

• Fushimi Inari Taisha: Explore the thousands of red tori of this emblematic sanctuary.
• Arashiyama: Cross the bamboo forest and visit the Iwatayama monkey park.
• Kiyomizu-dera: This temple perched on a hill offers stunning views of Kyoto.

Immersive activities

Take part in a tea ceremony, learn to wear a kimono or take a cooking class to prepare local dishes.

Nara: Meetings with sacred deer (Day 13)

One hour from Kyoto, Nara is a must-see to admire Todai-ji and his Grand Buddha. Nara Park is also famous for its deer at large, considered messengers of the gods.

Osaka: Gastronomy and modernity (Days 14-15)

Osaka, Japan’s gourmet city, will seduce you with its relaxed atmosphere and culinary specialties.

Main discoveries

• Dotonbori: Enjoy the night entertainment of this street lined with restaurants and neon.
• Castle of OsakaThis historic monument offers a dive into Japan’s feudal history.

Local specialities

Taste takoyaki, okonomiyaki and kushikatsu, a must-see for any visitor.

Hiroshima and Miyajima: History and Spirituality (Days 16-17)

Hiroshima tells a moving page of modern history, while Miyajima plunges you into spirituality and nature.

Hiroshima

Visit the Peace Park and the Memorial Museum to better understand the city’s history. Don’t miss the dome of the atomic bomb, a World Heritage site.

Miyajima

The island is famous for its floating torii from the shrine of Itsukushima. Hiking on Mount Misen for stunning panoramas.

Takayama and Shirakawa-go: Immersion in rural Japan (Days 18-19)

Head to the Japanese Alps to discover picturesque villages and well preserved traditions.

Takayama

Explore the area of Sanmachi Suji, with its old wooden houses, and taste local specialities such as Hida beef.

Shirakawa-go

This UNESCO World Heritage village is famous for its traditional thatched houses, called gassho-zukuri.

Kanazawa : Between history and art (Day 20)

Kanazawa is a perfect destination for combining culture and relaxation. Visit the Kenroku-en garden, one of the most beautiful in Japan, and the Nagamachi district to dive into the world of samurai.

Return to Tokyo : End of the trip (Day 21)

Back in the capital, finish your stay by exploring the neighborhoods you liked or shopping in Ginza or Akihabara. Take a moment to enjoy a last Japanese meal before leaving.

Practical tips for this route

Transport

TheJapan Rail Passis essential to travel through Japan. Focus on local trains for shorter trips and buses to explore rural areas.

Accommodation

Alternate between modern hotels, traditional ryokan and guest houses for an authentic experience. Book in advance, especially in high season.

Budget

A three-week trip requires budget planning. Count about 100 to 150 € per day for meals, transport and activities.

This 21-day trip to Japan is an enriching experience that allows you to discover the country’s many faces. Between dynamic cities, spectacular nature and centuries-old traditions, this classic itinerary guarantees you imperishable memories.

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