After years of dreaming, Ravi and I finally made it to Japan and Seoul, South Korea, two countries that had been on our list for almost two decades! This trip was everything we hoped for and more: peaceful temples, cozy cafés, incredible food, and heartwarming hospitality.
I shared bits of it on my Instagram stories and also have them saved under highlights, but many of you wanted the full itinerary (especially those planning your own trip). So here it is-our complete Japan and Seoul travel guide with an itinerary, must-see sights, restaurant finds, and travel tips.
We received so many amazing tips and recommendations from my cousin and a dear friend, and I wanted to pass those along with our own experiences. Over the years, I have also shared detailed itineraries for Iceland, Banff, Naples, Sorrento, and the Amalfi Coast, and I am so glad many of you have used them to plan your trips. Whether you are planning your very first trip or heading back to explore more, I hope this guide is helpful and makes your journey even smoother.
Jump to:
- Before You Go: Travel Tips for Japan
- Day 1: Flight to Tokyo
- Day 2: Arriving in Tokyo – Modern Meets Magical
- Day 3: Temples, Gardens & a River Cruise
- Day 4: Ginza Glam & TeamLab Art
- Day 5 – Nikko’s Mountain Shrines
- Day 6 – Kyoto Arrival & Ryokan Stay
- Day 7 – Kyoto’s Shrines, Temples & Old-Town Magic
- Day 9 – Osaka’s Energy, Food, and Nighttime Glow
- Day 10 – Hiroshima Reflections and a Beautiful Osaka Sunset
- Before You Go: Travel Tips for Seoul
- Day 11 – Flying to Seoul
- Day 12 – Seoul Tower Views, Market Food, and a Palace Afternoon
- Day 13 – Hanok Streets, Secret Gardens, and the Glow of Myeongdong
- Day 14 – Beauty Day, Café Hopping, and the Softest Hair Ever
- Day 15 – Farewell to Seoul
Before You Go: Travel Tips for Japan
- Arrival: Fill out your Japan Online Arrival Card before flying – it saves time at immigration.
- Local Travel: If you’re visiting multiple cities, buy a JR Pass for unlimited bullet train travel.
- Luggage: Ship your luggage hotel-to-hotel, across cities- it’s inexpensive and hassle-free.
- Cash: Carry yen for cafés, markets, and local shops.
- Timings: Visit popular spots like Fushimi Inari and the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest early in the morning when the paths feel calmer and more peaceful.
Day 1: Flight to Tokyo
Route: NYC → Tokyo
All day in the air.
Day 2: Arriving in Tokyo – Modern Meets Magical
We landed at Haneda Airport in the afternoon and checked into the Grand Hyatt Tokyo. After a quick refresh, we spent our first evening exploring Omotesando and Harajuku, two neighborhoods renowned for their style and energy, where every corner had something unique; from the mirrored entrance at Tokyu Plaza to sweet treats at Dominique Ansel Bakery and iconic crepes at Marion Crêpes.
The Meiji Jingu Shrine, surrounded by a quiet, lush forest in the heart of Tokyo, was the perfect place to slow down and ease into the beauty and calm of Japan.
Our first afternoon in Tokyo was pure sensory delight – the clean streets, the efficiency, and the beautiful blend of calm and chaos.
As night fell, we found ourselves at the Shibuya Scramble, where hundreds of people cross from every direction – pure Tokyo energy! Tip: The best view you will get is from the Starbucks on the second floor of the department store across the street.
Dinner was Soba Noodles and Sushi at Gonpachi Shibuya (yes, the one that inspired Kill Bill) wrapped up the evening perfectly.
Day 3: Temples, Gardens & a River Cruise
We began the morning with a peaceful walk through Hamarikyu Gardens, where the ponds, bridges, and soft greenery sit right in the middle of Tokyo’s skyscrapers. From there, we took the Sumida River Cruise to Asakusa with beautiful views of the city from the water.
Once we arrived in Asakusa, we walked towards Tokyo’s Oldest Sensō-ji Temple. The huge red lantern, incense, and steady stream of visitors made the whole area feel full of energy. Inside the temple, the golden altar shimmered in the soft light – serene, sacred, and timeless. We spent some time exploring the temple grounds and watched people draw omikuji fortune slips, which is such a fun tradition.
Just outside the temple is the lively Nakamise Street with people trying snacks, shopping for souvenirs, and taking photos. The smell of roasted nuts, mochi, and sweet treats filled the air. Our favorites were wasabi-coated cashews, warm sweet potato cakes, and Ningyo-yaki, small traditional cakes. For lunch, we stopped at Yoroiya for their vegan ramen. The restaurant is small and cozy, and the ramen was flavorful and comforting.
We ended the day with a relaxing stroll through Ueno Park. Local musicians filled the space with music, and families enjoyed the open lawns. It was the perfect ending to a memorable day in Tokyo.
Day 4: Ginza Glam & TeamLab Art
Day 4 was a beautiful blend of classic Tokyo style and modern creativity. We spent the morning exploring Ginza, a neighborhood known for its luxury boutiques, polished architecture, and perfectly curated department stores.
We wandered through the flagship shops, including Uniqlo, picked up sakura mochi at Ginza Akebono, and explored Itoya, which is a true paradise for anyone who loves pens, paper, and all things stationery.
By lunch, we were at the Mitsukoshi Department Store and found a cozy sushi restaurant inside. The sushi was incredibly fresh and beautifully prepared.
Later in the afternoon, we went to Muji and discovered their bakery section filled with freshly baked breads and pastries. We picked up a warm nut and dried fruit loaf that had just come out of the oven and enjoyed it as a little afternoon snack. It was simple but so delicious.
In the evening, we visited teamLab Borderless, an immersive world of digital art that feels alive and always shifting. Light, color, and motion fill every room and create an experience that feels magical from the moment you walk in.
Day 5 – Nikko’s Mountain Shrines
A perfect day trip to Nikko, surrounded by misty forests and autumn leaves. We took the Tobu Rail from Tobu Asakusa Station in Tokyo.
We crossed the iconic red Shinkyo Bridge, glowing against the backdrop of Nikko’s beautiful mountain landscape, and wandered through the serene grounds of Rinnoji Temple and Futarasan Shrine – each one peaceful, historic, and surrounded by the soft rustle of fall leaves. And of course, we couldn’t leave without trying warm mitarashi dango – little grilled rice dumplings brushed with a glossy, sweet-soy glaze. Soft, chewy, slightly smoky… the perfect cozy bite on a cool Nikko afternoon!
Tip: Make sure to buy your round-trip Tobu train tickets in advance – either online or at the station counter. This guarantees reserved seats for the return journey, which is especially helpful in the fall when trains get busy.
Day 6 – Kyoto Arrival & Ryokan Stay
The Shinkansen ride to Kyoto was fast and peaceful, with Mount Fuji peeking through the clouds.
We checked into Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki Street, a beautifully restored traditional ryokan tucked along a quiet Kyoto lane. The moment we walked in, we felt that signature Japanese warmth, soft lighting, the smell of wood and tatami, and the calm, retreat-like atmosphere.
For lunch, we stopped at Sushi Zen, a cozy, two-generation family-run spot where the sushi was incredibly fresh and thoughtfully prepared. (Menbaka Fire Ramen is another fun option nearby if you’re looking for something more casual and entertaining!)
One of our favorite parts of the stay was the private bathhouse right in our suite! Such a relaxing treat after days of walking. The staff was incredibly kind, and the room itself blended traditional charm with modern comfort in the best way.
The next morning, we enjoyed the traditional Japanese breakfast, Ochazuke with 19 menu items, which was beautifully put together. Simple, delicate, and full of flavors we don’t get to enjoy every day.
The only challenge was the kaiseki dinner, which was mostly meat. Even though we confirmed ahead and were told there would be alternatives, they weren’t able to accommodate vegetarian options upon arrival. So if you have dietary preferences, it’s something to be very clear about before booking.
We rounded out the day with a peaceful visit to Nijō Castle, letting Kyoto’s gentle, historic beauty sink in.
Day 7 – Kyoto’s Shrines, Temples & Old-Town Magic
This was one of our favorite days in Kyoto – the kind where every few minutes you stop and say, “Wow… this is stunning.” Kyoto has a way of slowing you down, grounding you, and wrapping you in its gentle, timeless charm.
We started our morning at Heian Jingu Shrine, where the towering vermilion torii gate and spacious courtyard instantly make you feel connected to Kyoto’s imperial past. The shrine’s gardens were one of the highlights. The ponds, wooden bridges, and weeping willows create such a peaceful atmosphere, and it is a beautiful place to wander slowly.
From the gardens, we continued onto the Philosopher’s Walk, a gentle stone path lined with trees, small shops, and cafés. It is such a calming walk and a lovely way to enjoy Kyoto at a slower pace before visiting the temples nearby.
For lunch, we stopped at Arash’s Kitchen, one of the few places in Kyoto where you can find delicious vegetarian-friendly options.
From there, we explored some of Kyoto’s most iconic temples:
- Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion): serene, understated, and surrounded by calming moss gardens.
- Nanzen-ji Temple: with grand wooden gates and beautiful photo spots tucked into quiet corners.
- Kodaiji Temple: peaceful walking paths, bamboo groves, and soft golden light filtering through the trees.
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple: perched high above Kyoto with sweeping views of the city. Walking up through the charming streets filled with pottery, snacks, and little shops felt straight out of a movie.
As the sun set, we headed to dinner at Sushi Hananoi, a small, intimate restaurant run by a third-generation sushi master. We loved the omakase meal as he thoughtfully guided us through a beautiful sequence of pieces, and the experience felt personal and truly special.
We ended the night wandering through Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district. Lantern-lit streets, wooden machiya houses, and a soft buzz of people heading to dinner or evening performances – the perfect Kyoto atmosphere.
Day 8 – Sunrise at Fushimi Inari, Zen Gardens and the Magic of Arashiyama
Day 8 was one of those “pinch me” travel days that felt peaceful, scenic, and filled with unforgettable moments.
We started early at Fushimi Inari Taisha, arriving just after sunrise when the trails were quiet and the soft morning light filtered through the bright orange Torii gates. Walking through those endless pathways felt magical and incredibly calming.
Our next stop was Sanjusangendo Temple, home to 1,001 golden statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Photos are not allowed inside, but the moment you step in, you understand why. The entire hall glows, and the peaceful atmosphere stays with you long after you leave. In the temple shop, we tried Seijokankidan, a crunchy rice flour pastry filled with, bean-based sweet, which the vendor explained as Indian Modak coming to Japan via China and India.
We continued to see the Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji), sparkling in the sunlight, followed by the quiet beauty of the Ryoanji Zen Garden.
For lunch, we went to Yudofu Sagano, a traditional tofu restaurant near Tenryu ji Temple. Their gentle tofu hotpot and the lovely side dishes, along with the peaceful garden views, were a lovely break in the middle of a busy day.
In the afternoon, we walked through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Arashiyama’s quiet streets before heading to our dinner reservation at Tempura Matsuura. This small counter-style Michelin-starred restaurant serves a beautiful omakase experience. Each tempura piece is cooked right in front of you and tastes light, crisp, and full of flavor. It was one of our favorite meals in Kyoto.
Day 9 – Osaka’s Energy, Food, and Nighttime Glow
We started the morning by taking the short 15-minute Shinkansen ride from Kyoto to Osaka.
Our first stop was Osaka Castle, where we walked through the spacious lawns and gardens. The castle looks beautiful from every angle, and the surrounding park is perfect for a relaxed morning stroll.
After that, we explored the Umeda area, one of Osaka’s busiest commercial districts. There are endless shops, cafés, and underground walkways to explore. We made sure to stop inside Daimaru Department Store, where we discovered an entire display of unique KitKat flavors, including matcha, strawberry, and seasonal Japanese specialties.
In the evening, we headed to Dotonbori, the lively heart of Osaka. The bright lights, giant signboards, street food stalls, and buzzing atmosphere make it one of the most memorable places to experience in the city. Even though it was a rainy day, the energy was so infectious that we still had a great time walking around with our umbrellas and taking it all in.
For dinner, we visited Mizuno, a well-loved restaurant known for serving traditional Osaka-style okonomiyaki. Watching the chefs prepare the sizzling pancakes on the hot grill right in front of us was such a fun experience. We tried both the vegetarian and seafood versions and enjoyed them equally.
Day 10 – Hiroshima Reflections and a Beautiful Osaka Sunset
We took the Shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima in the morning.
Our first stop was the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, a place that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Walking through the exhibits, learning the stories, and seeing the artifacts felt heavy but deeply important. It is a powerful reminder of resilience, hope, and how deeply communities can rebuild.
We then explored the Peace Memorial Park, the A Bomb Dome, and the surrounding walkways that encourage you to pause, reflect, and truly take in the significance of where you are standing.
For lunch, we visited Nagataya, a popular spot known for Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. This version is layered with noodles and vegetables and is cooked right on the griddle. We tried both the vegetarian and seafood versions and were happy to see that they also offered vegan options. It was comforting, flavorful, and such a good meal after a long morning.
In the afternoon, we took the Shinkansen back to Osaka. We reached the city just in time to head to the Umeda Sky Building, one of the best spots to enjoy panoramic views of Osaka. Watching the sun set over the city felt like the perfect, gentle ending to a very meaningful day.
Before You Go: Travel Tips for Seoul
1. Arrival: Fill out the Korea Arrival Card before landing.
2. Navigation: Download KakaoMap or Subway Korea (Google Maps doesn’t fully work here).
3. Transport: Grab a T-Money Card at the airport or convenience stores – it works on trains, buses, and even some taxis.
4. Apps: Use Google Translate’s Conversation mode for dietary or shopping help.
5. Currency: You can withdraw cash easily at airport ATMs or major stores.
Day 11 – Flying to Seoul
Landing in Seoul, we immediately felt the energy shift. The city has a vibrant, modern feel with sleek architecture and mountains peeking through the skyline. From the airport, we headed straight to our hotel and checked into the Conrad Seoul, which offered amazing views of the Han River from our room.
After several busy days of sightseeing in Japan, it felt nice to slow down a little. We spent the evening relaxing and taking in the view, then enjoyed a quiet dinner at the hotel.
Day 12 – Seoul Tower Views, Market Food, and a Palace Afternoon
Our first full day in Seoul began with a visit to N Seoul Tower, one of the best places to get a panoramic view of the entire city. We took the cable car up, and at the top, the lookout deck gave us a sweeping view of Seoul’s skyline, mountains, and the winding Han River.
From there, we headed to Namdaemun Market, one of the oldest and busiest traditional markets in Seoul. Our first unplanned stop ended being at the Kalguksu (Noodle) Alley. The vendors were lively and warm, and a group of Korean aunties insisted that we sit down and try some of their food. It felt like being welcomed into someone’s home and was one of those travel moments that stays with you. We had delicious handmade knife-cut noodle soup and bibimbap.
In the afternoon, we visited Gyeongbokgung Palace, which is the largest of Seoul’s Five Grand Palaces. The grand gates, colorful detailing, and open courtyards felt incredibly majestic. Many visitors walked around in beautiful hanboks, adding so much charm and color to the palace grounds.
We wrapped up the day with a peaceful walk through Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong. Both areas have narrow lanes filled with traditional houses, art studios, tea shops, and small boutiques. It was the perfect way to ease into Seoul’s mix of old and new.
Day 13 – Hanok Streets, Secret Gardens, and the Glow of Myeongdong
We started the morning in Insadong, a neighborhood known for its charming mix of traditional craft shops, hanbok stores, calligraphy boutiques, and cozy tea houses. We wandered through the little alleyways, browsed handmade pottery, and even stopped for warm hotteok, a sweet pancake filled with brown sugar and nuts. It tasted especially good on a cool morning.
From Insadong, we walked over to Ikseon-dong, one of Seoul’s trendiest areas. It is a maze of beautifully restored hanoks filled with cafés, dessert shops, and tiny independent stores. Every corner had something interesting to peek into, and the whole area felt very lively and creative. We then had the most delicate and beautifully presented vegan lunch at Flower Blossom on the Rice, a Michelin-recognized spot that turns simple ingredients into something truly special.
In the afternoon, we made our way to Changdeokgung Palace for the famous Secret Garden Tour. This was one of the highlights of our Seoul visit. The palace grounds are stunning on their own, but the Secret Garden feels even more magical with its lotus pond, old pavilions, and peaceful walking paths.
We ended the day in Myeongdong, soaking in the bright lights and festive energy. The streets were lined with skincare shops, cafés, and food stalls grilling everything from baked sweet potatoes, tteokbokki, glass noodles, skewers, to fun desserts. Not only did we enjoy some of the street foods we also did some shopping.
By the end of the night, our bags were a little fuller and our feet were definitely tired.
Day 14 – Beauty Day, Café Hopping, and the Softest Hair Ever
Day 14 was our modern Seoul day. We began the morning at CoEX Mall in Samseong-dong, Gangnam, one of the largest malls in Asia. We had to visit the beautiful Starfield Library, with its soaring bookshelves and warm lighting that make the whole space feel inviting. We spent a little time wandering through shops and enjoying the relaxed pace of a Seoul weekday morning.
Next, we headed to Sinsa-dong Garosu-gil, a stylish street lined with ginkgo trees, boutique shops, and charming cafés. It has a very trendy yet cozy atmosphere and is perfect for slow browsing and people watching.
From there, we made our way to Amore Seongsu for a custom Hera foundation color match. This was such a fun experience. Using their special color analysis tools, they created a foundation shade perfectly matched to my skin tone. It felt like beauty meets science in the best way. Before the appointment, we stopped at The Onion Seongsu, a café set inside an old industrial building that has been redesigned into a rustic and modern space. The pastries here are incredible, and the whole place has a Brooklyn-inspired vibe.
In the evening, we treated ourselves to the famous 18-step hair treatment at Eco Hardin, which we booked on Klook. The staff was so kind, and the whole process felt like a full spa for the hair. My hair came out softer, smoother, and shinier than it has been in years.
It was a full day of beauty, treats, and discovering the softer, trendier side of Seoul. Such a lovely way to wrap up our time in the city.
Day 15 – Farewell to Seoul
Our final morning in Seoul was all about slow packing and some last-minute exploring. We walked over to Olive Young, which quickly became one of our favorite places in the city. These stores are everywhere in Seoul, and each one has different skincare treasures, new launches, and travel-sized goodies that are perfect for stocking up. We picked up a few favorites to bring home and a couple of new things to try.
After one last look at the beautiful skyline from our hotel room, it was time to head to the airport. The ride to Incheon gave us a moment to reflect on the past two weeks and everything we had experienced. From peaceful temples in Kyoto to lively markets in Seoul, this trip gave us memories that we will hold close for a long time.
We boarded our flight feeling grateful, inspired, and already thinking about the next adventure.
This trip to Japan and Seoul is one we will cherish forever. Each city gave us something different to hold on to. Tokyo’s energy, Kyoto’s quiet beauty, Osaka’s food-filled streets, Hiroshima’s powerful history, and Seoul’s modern buzz all came together to create a journey that felt rich, meaningful, and incredibly fun. We are so grateful for the moments we experienced, the people we met, the food we tasted, and the little surprises that only travel can bring.
Thank you for following along and for all the messages and excitement you shared while we traveled. It truly made the experience even more special. I hope this itinerary inspires you to plan your own dream trip when the time feels right. And as always, I will keep sharing the recipes, tips, and stories that connect us no matter where we are in the world.
