14-Day Itinerary in Japan

Overview of the Journey

Cities Visited: Osaka, Koyasan, Nara, Kyoto, Kanazawa, Takayama, Tokyo
Travel Period: Two weeks
Travel Method: Public transportation, primarily using IC cards and single-fare tickets
Extra Notes: Visited in November for autumn foliage and mild weather

IC Cards: Rechargeable travel cards (purchase on arrival)
Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass): Not needed for this itinerary since it's a point-to-point trip
Navigation: Google Maps and HyperDia for detailed travel planning

Known as: The Kitchen of Japan
Main Attractions:
- Dotonbori: Famous for Glico-Man sign, neon lights, shops, food
- Ichiran Ramen: Popular for tonkotsu ramen
- Namba Yasaka Shrine: Famous for lion head stage
- Osaka Castle: Significant historic landmark
- Amerika-mura: Center of Japanese youth culture
- Umeda Sky Building: Observation deck with city views
- Okaru: Favorite Okonomiyaki shop
- Don Quijote: Discount chain with unique Ferris wheel
Food: Okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancakes)

Known for: Shingon Buddhism, over 100 temples
Main Attractions:
- Danjo Garan Temple Complex: Built by Kobo Daishi
- Daimon Gate: End of Choishi Michi pilgrimage trail
- Kongobu-ji: Head temple of Shingon Buddhism
- Okunoin Cemetery: Japan's largest, home to over 200,000 graves
- Stay Experience: Overnight at Saizen-in temple lodging, traditional Buddhist meal

Known for: Nara Park and deer population
Main Attractions:
- Todai-ji Temple: Houses Nara Daibatsu (largest bronze Buddha statue)
- Kasuga-Taisha: Shinto shrine known for bronze lanterns
- Mount Wakakusa: Hill with excellent city and park views
- Mochi-Pounding Show: Famous local treat

Known for: Ancient capital, temples, shrines, palaces, gardens
Main Attractions:
- Arashiyama: Known for bamboo grove, Tenryu-ji temple, Iwatayama Monkey Park
- Kinkaku-ji: Golden Pavilion, historical temple
- Nishiki Market: Famous food market
- Gion: Traditional entertainment district
- Fushimi Inari Shrine: Known for thousands of torii gates
- Nanzen-ji and Eikan-do: Famous for autumn foliage
- Pontocho: Well-known dining area
Food: Ramen (Ramen Sen no Kaze), beef dining experience

Known for: Historic districts, gold leaf production, gardens
Main Attractions:
- Omicho Market: Popular food market
- Mori Mori Sushi: Conveyor belt sushi restaurant
- D.T. Suzuki Museum: Celebrates prominent Zen Buddhist
- 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art: Large museum with many exhibits
- Oyama Shrine: Witnessed a wedding ceremony
- Kanazawa Castle: Partially restored historic site
- Kenrouku-en Garden: One of Japan's best gardens
- Higashi Chaya: Historic tea house district
- Ramen Experience: Black miso ramen with squid ink
- Tsuzumi Gate: Iconic red gate, live street performances

Known for: Carpentry, Hida beef, sake, onsen hot spots
Main Attractions:
- Old Town: Daily morning market, traditional merchant houses
- Takayama Jinya: Old government building
- Sanmachi-suji: Historic neighborhood
- Hida Folk Village: Open-air museum with traditional houses
- Okuhida Onsen: Stay at ryokan, rooftop onsen experience
- Shinhotaka Ropeway: Offers panoramic views of Northern Alps

Known for: Modern super city with diverse and busy attractions
Main Attractions:
- Meiji Shrine: Famous shrine in a forest area
- Harajuku: Fashion boutiques, trendy shops
- Micro Pig Cafe: Unique cafe experience
- Shibuya Crossing: World's busiest pedestrian crossing
- Uobei Sushi: Budget-friendly conveyor sushi chain
- Akihabara: Center of manga, anime, and geek culture
- TeamLab Borderless: Digital art museum
- Omoide Yokocho: Atmospheric alleyway with izakayas
Bonus Attractions: Tokyo Tower, Senso-ji Temple, Kabukicho (Shinjuku)

Japan remains a favorite travel destination
Hopes for global travel recovery, encouraging comments for questions or feedback