14 days in Japan Itinerary

The national capital for over a thousand years, Kyoto retains much of the charm of old Japan, boasting numerous temples and shrines that seem completely untouched by the modern world.

Kyoto is known for historic sites, sightseeing, and shopping. Your trip includes some of its best attractions: contemplate the long history of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, get to know the fascinating history of Katsura Imperial Villa, don't miss a visit to Nishiki Market Shopping District, and contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Kinkaku-ji.

To see ratings, other places to visit, traveler tips, and tourist information, use the Kyoto journey maker site.

Honolulu, USA to Kyoto is an approximately 10-hour flight. Due to the time zone difference, you'll lose 19 hours traveling from Honolulu to Kyoto. Traveling from Honolulu in December, things will get cooler in Kyoto: highs are around 52°F and lows about 39°F. Cap off your sightseeing on the 15th (Thu) early enough to catch the train to Otsu.

The lake port city of Otsu has a wealth of sites of historical and cultural importance and lies within close proximity to Kyoto.

Kick off your visit on the 16th (Fri): contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Hiyoshi-Taisha Shrine, contemplate the long history of Enryaku-ji Yokawachudo, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Komponchudo, then take in the spiritual surroundings of Jishu Shrine, and finally admire the local landmark of Biwakohana Fountain.

To find traveler tips, more things to do, where to stay, and other tourist information, read our Otsu day trip planner.

Otsu is just a stone's throw from Kyoto. In December, plan for daily highs up to 52°F, and evening lows to 39°F. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 16th (Fri) so you can catch the train to Osaka.

Proud of their hometown's distinct culture and dialect, many natives of Osaka describe their city as "Japan's anti-capital." An antidote to Tokyo's hectic energy, Osaka marches to the beat of its own drum, serving as the country's longtime commercial and industrial hub.

Start off your visit on the 17th (Sat): take in panoramic vistas at Kuchu Teien Observatory, wander the streets of Dotombori District, then explore the historical opulence of Osaka Castle, and finally make a trip to Osaka Castle Bairin. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: observe the fascinating underwater world at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and then find something for the whole family at Universal Studios Japan.

For ratings, where to stay, reviews, and other tourist information, use the Osaka online vacation planner.

You can take a train from Otsu to Osaka in an hour. Other options are to drive; or do a combination of subway and train. In December, daily temperatures in Osaka can reach 52°F, while at night they dip to 39°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 18th (Sun) to allow time to drive to Kaga.

Lying at the foot of one of Japan's holy volcanic mountains, the charming city of Kaga draws visitors with its onsens and lovely temples.

Kick off your visit on the 19th (Mon): make a trip to Great sugi of Kayano, admire the verdant scenery at Kakusenkei Gorge, see the interesting displays at Motorcar Museum of Japan, then get curious at Nakaya Ukichiro Museum of Snow and Ice, then admire the natural beauty at Kitamae Senshuyashiki Zorokuen, and finally get great views at Kasa no Misaki.

To find traveler tips, maps, and other tourist information, refer to the Kaga trip itinerary planning website.

Traveling by car from Osaka to Kaga takes 3.5 hours. Expect a daytime high around 49°F in December, and nighttime lows around 37°F. Cap off your sightseeing on the 19th (Mon) early enough to go by car to Kanazawa.

An old castle town largely unspoiled during World War II, Kanazawa features well-preserved architecture spread across a range of districts.

Kick off your visit on the 20th (Tue): admire the natural beauty at Kenrokuen Garden, surround yourself with nature on In Kanazawa House, admire the landmark architecture of Kanazawa Station, then make a trip to Omicho Market, and finally take a stroll through Higashichaya Old Town.

To find other places to visit, maps, and more tourist information, refer to the Kanazawa road trip planning site.

Getting from Kaga to Kanazawa by car takes about an hour. Other options: drive. Expect a daytime high around 49°F in December, and nighttime lows around 37°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 20th (Tue) so you can fly to Narita.

Pilgrims and aviators come to Narita, a town known during the Edo period for its temple, and now known primarily for its airport.

Kick off your visit on the 21st (Wed): contemplate the long history of Naritasan Omote Sando, steep yourself in history at Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple, stroll around Naritasan Park, tee off at Taiheiyo Club Narita Course, then take in panoramic vistas at Narita International Airport Terminal 1, and finally look for gifts at Konnichiwa.

To see ratings, photos, reviews, and more tourist information, go to the Narita tour planning tool.

You can fly from Kanazawa to Narita in 3 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. In December in Narita, expect temperatures between 53°F during the day and 34°F at night. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 21st (Wed) early enough to drive to Tokyo.

Tokyo holds the status of most populous metropolitan area in the world--a fact you'll find tangible as you walk the bustling streets and explore its diverse neighborhoods and cultures.

Have a day of magic on the 24th (Sat) at Tokyo Disneyland. Next up on the itinerary: don't miss a visit to Meiji Jingu Shrine, take in panoramic vistas at Tokyo Skytree, admire the natural beauty at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and get in on the family fun at Tokyo DisneySea.

To find other places to visit, maps, photos, and more tourist information, you can read our Tokyo tour itinerary planning tool.

Drive from Narita to Tokyo in an hour. Alternatively, you can take a train; or take a bus. In December, daytime highs in Tokyo are 54°F, while nighttime lows are 39°F. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 25th (Sun) so you can catch the flight back home.