The Ultimate 2-Week Itinerary for Japan: Luxury Travel, High-Speed Trains, and Hidden Gems

9 min readSep 8, 2024

Welcome to Japan, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with futuristic cities and natural beauty. Whether you’re sipping tea in a traditional ryokan, speeding through the countryside on a high-speed bullet train, or exploring serene temples, Japan offers endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. This two-week itinerary will guide you through Japan’s must-see cities, hidden treasures, and off-the-beaten-path spots while traveling in style — without breaking the bank.

Getting There: Fly Business Class to Japan in Comfort

Start your Japanese adventure in style by flying business class. You’ll enjoy lay-flat seats, gourmet meals, and priority service, making the long flight from your home base much more comfortable. The best way to score great business-class deals is to use Skyscanner, which lets you track flight prices and alerts you when prices drop.

Make sure you use your American Express Gold Card for your booking. With a 90K mile sign-up bonus, you’ll be stacking points for future trips. Once you’ve got the Gold card, upgrade to the American Express Platinum Card for an additional 150K points, perfect for even more luxurious trips down the line.

Best Airports for Arrival in Japan:

Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT): Best for arriving in Tokyo, the capital and a key starting point for many travelers.
Haneda Airport (HND): Closer to downtown Tokyo, making it more convenient if you’re planning to stay in the city for a few days.
Kansai International Airport (KIX): Ideal if you’re starting your trip in Kyoto or Osaka.

Transportation: Luxury Trains and High-Speed Travel

Japan is famous for its shinkansen (bullet trains), which zip across the country at incredible speeds. You can make long-distance travel not just quick but also luxurious by booking first-class (Green Car) or the ultra-luxe Gran Class tickets. These offer spacious seats, personalized service, and extra legroom, making train journeys a comfortable and efficient way to see the country.

Purchase a Japan Rail Pass before you arrive, as it offers unlimited travel on JR trains, including shinkansen, making your trip more cost-effective. Opt for the Green Car JR Pass for first-class travel.

Day 1–3: Tokyo — The Futuristic Capital of Japan

Where to Stay:

Aman Tokyo (Luxury): A sleek and serene hotel offering panoramic views of the city and traditional Japanese design elements.
The Peninsula Tokyo (Luxury): Located in the heart of Ginza, this hotel is perfect for travelers looking for luxury and convenience.

Day 1: Arrival and Jet Lag Recovery

Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Most luxury hotels in Tokyo offer incredible buffet spreads, including both Japanese and Western options.
Morning: Arrive at Tokyo Narita or Haneda Airport and transfer to your hotel. After settling in, ease into your first day with a spa treatment to recover from jet lag. Most luxury hotels have world-class spas, perfect for rejuvenating.
Afternoon: Take a stroll through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and relax while taking in the beautiful scenery.
Dinner: Enjoy your first taste of Japanese cuisine at Sushi Saito, one of Tokyo’s best sushi restaurants.

Day 2: Explore Tokyo’s Iconic Sights

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading out for the day.
Morning: Visit the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa and explore the bustling Nakamise Shopping Street.
Lunch: Grab lunch at Ippudo for an unforgettable bowl of ramen. Ippudo is a must-visit spot known for its delicious tonkotsu (pork-based broth) ramen.
Afternoon: Head to Akihabara, the famous electronics and anime district, for a fun, futuristic experience.
Dinner: Dine at Narisawa, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that blends Japanese ingredients with French techniques.

Day 3: Off-the-Beaten-Path in Tokyo

Breakfast: Fuel up with a nutritious breakfast at your hotel.
Morning: Explore the peaceful Yanaka District, one of Tokyo’s last remaining neighborhoods untouched by modernization. Wander through its narrow streets, visit small shrines, and enjoy the quiet atmosphere.
Lunch: Stop by Tonkatsu Maisen in Aoyama for some of the best pork cutlets in the city.
Afternoon: Visit the Nezu Shrine, a hidden gem known for its serene setting and beautiful torii gates.
Dinner: For dinner, check out Ginza Ukai Tei, an upscale teppanyaki restaurant with incredible wagyu beef.

Day 4–6: Kyoto — The Heart of Traditional Japan

Take the shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto. The journey takes about 2.5 hours, but in the Green Car or Gran Class, you’ll enjoy extra space and first-class service.

Where to Stay:

Suiran, A Luxury Collection Hotel (Luxury): Located by the scenic Arashiyama area, this hotel offers a tranquil experience near the bamboo forest.
The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto (Luxury): A riverside luxury hotel offering a blend of modern elegance and traditional Japanese hospitality.

Day 4: Arrival in Kyoto and Relaxation

Breakfast: Have breakfast on the train or wait until you arrive at your hotel.
Morning: Arrive in Kyoto and check into your hotel. Start your day with a traditional tea ceremony to immerse yourself in Kyoto’s cultural heritage.
Lunch: Try Okutan, a restaurant specializing in yudofu (boiled tofu), a Kyoto specialty.
Afternoon: Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and take a leisurely walk through the peaceful groves.
Dinner: Head to Kikunoi, a Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant, for an elegant multi-course meal.

Day 5: Temples and Shrines

Breakfast: Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at your hotel.
Morning: Start with a visit to the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine. Hike through thousands of torii gates to the summit for stunning views of Kyoto.
Lunch: Stop for lunch at Izuju, a local favorite known for Kyoto-style sushi.
Afternoon: Visit the Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and marvel at its shimmering beauty reflected in the pond.
Dinner: End the day at Hyotei, one of Kyoto’s oldest restaurants, for a refined kaiseki dinner.

Day 6: Kyoto’s Hidden Gems

Breakfast: Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before heading out.
Morning: Explore the Philosopher’s Path, a peaceful walkway lined with cherry trees. Along the way, stop by the Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion).
Lunch: Try Omen Kyoto, a noodle restaurant specializing in udon with various toppings.
Afternoon: Take a walk through the Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s “Kitchen,” where you can sample local snacks and delicacies.
Dinner: Enjoy a private dining experience at Gion Karyo, offering beautifully plated Japanese cuisine.

Day 7–9: Osaka — Vibrant City Life and Food Heaven

Take the shinkansen from Kyoto to Osaka, a quick 15-minute ride.

Where to Stay:

Conrad Osaka (Luxury): Known for its stunning views of the city and the river, Conrad Osaka combines luxury with modern design.
The St. Regis Osaka (Luxury): Located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers impeccable service and luxury rooms.

Day 7: Arrival in Osaka

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Kyoto before heading to Osaka.
Morning: Arrive in Osaka and check into your hotel. Start by visiting Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks.
Lunch: Try Harukoma Sushi in the Tenjinbashi district for fresh, affordable sushi.
Afternoon: Explore Shinsekai, a retro district filled with street food stalls and quirky shops.
Dinner: Dine at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M, known for its mouthwatering wagyu beef.

Day 8: Theme Park Fun for the Family — Universal Studios Japan

Breakfast: Fuel up with breakfast at the hotel for a long day ahead.
Morning & Afternoon: Spend the entire day at Universal Studios Japan, home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, and exciting rides for all ages.
Lunch & Snacks: Grab a meal inside the park at Three Broomsticks in the Harry Potter area or snack on Japanese-themed treats.
Dinner: After a full day at the park, relax with dinner at Fujiya 1935, a Michelin-starred fusion restaurant in Osaka.

Day 9: Off-the-Beaten-Path in Osaka

Breakfast: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel.
Morning: Take a day trip to Minoo Park, a hidden gem with beautiful waterfalls and nature trails just 30 minutes from central Osaka.
Lunch: Try Ippudo for another delicious bowl of ramen, this time in Osaka.
Afternoon: Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the largest aquariums in the world.
Dinner: End your day at Chibo, an iconic spot for Osaka’s signature dish, okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake).

Day 10–12: Hiroshima & Miyajima — History and Natural Beauty

Take the shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima, about 1.5 hours.

Where to Stay:

Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel (Luxury): Located near the train station, this hotel offers easy access to the city and luxury accommodations.
Hotel Miyarikyu (Ryokan-style): A traditional Japanese inn on Miyajima Island with beautiful views of the Seto Inland Sea.

Day 10: Arrival in Hiroshima

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Osaka before heading to Hiroshima.
Morning: After arriving in Hiroshima, visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum to learn about the city’s history.
Lunch: Try Okonomimura, a building filled with okonomiyaki restaurants offering Hiroshima’s take on the dish.
Afternoon: Take a relaxing ferry ride to Miyajima Island to visit the famous Itsukushima Shrine and its floating torii gate.
Dinner: Stay on Miyajima for the night and dine at your ryokan, enjoying a traditional kaiseki meal.

Day 11: Explore Miyajima Island

Breakfast: Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at your ryokan.
Morning: Hike to the top of Mount Misen for breathtaking views of the surrounding sea and islands.
Lunch: Try local specialties like grilled oysters or momiji manju, a sweet snack shaped like a maple leaf.
Afternoon: Relax at Miyajima Onsen, a natural hot spring, and enjoy the tranquility of the island.
Dinner: Dine at Kinsuikan, known for its fresh seafood and elegant presentations.

Day 13–14: Tokyo — Disney Fun and Final Relaxation

Take the shinkansen back to Tokyo from Hiroshima, about 4 hours.

Where to Stay:

Park Hyatt Tokyo (Luxury): The hotel made famous by the film “Lost in Translation,” offering luxurious suites and panoramic city views.
Hilton Tokyo Bay (Luxury): A great option for families visiting Tokyo Disney Resort.

Day 13: Disney Magic

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading to Tokyo Disneyland.
Morning & Afternoon: Spend the day at Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea, known for its beautiful theming and unique attractions.
Lunch: Grab a meal inside the park at Magellan’s in Tokyo DisneySea for a more upscale dining experience.
Dinner: After a day of fun, relax with dinner at Nihonryori RyuGin, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant offering a modern take on traditional Japanese cuisine.

Day 14: Last-Minute Shopping and Relaxation

Breakfast: Have breakfast at your hotel and enjoy the last day of your trip.
Morning: Spend your final day exploring Odaiba, a futuristic entertainment district in Tokyo. Visit the teamLab Borderless digital art museum.
Lunch: Enjoy a casual lunch at Bills Odaiba, known for its modern Australian cuisine.
Afternoon: Get your last-minute shopping done at Ginza or Shibuya before heading back to your hotel for a final relaxation session at the spa.
Dinner: Dine at Kaiseki Den for a farewell meal showcasing Japan’s finest seasonal ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Japan is an incredible mix of old and new, culture and innovation. From its ancient temples to cutting-edge attractions like Tokyo Disneyland, you’ll experience a rich blend of history, nature, and modernity. With luxury hotels, high-speed trains, and hidden gems along the way, this two-week itinerary promises the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Don’t forget to book your tours with Viator for curated experiences, stay covered with Nomad Health Insurance by SafetyWing, and use Agoda for hotel deals throughout your journey.

Until next time here’s to smooth skies, good company, a journey full of happy memories. I’m your Travel Hack Guide to affordable luxury tips. Catch you later. Peace

Travel Hack Guy

ZachusTravel.com & YouTube.com/zachustravel