From the City to the Countryside, Here’s How to See Japan in Two Weeks

A 12-hour flight across the Pacific, a 17-hour time difference and a seemingly perfect operating society, Japan is a destination like none other. A country so clean and so respectful (not to mention quiet), experiencing the culture of Japan is worth the visit in itself. However, there’s so much more to discover beyond the surface. From eating unbelievably fresh fish at local standing sushi bars to exploring historic shrines and temples and tucked-away streets, Japan offers a multitude of captivating experiences that delve deep into its cultural heritage. From the beautiful cherry blossoms in the springtime to the breathtaking autumn foliage that transforms the countryside, the changing seasons in Japan are a sight to behold, making it an ideal time to visit.

You could really spend weeks in Japan, depending on how much of the country you are wanting to explore. I spent 13 days throughout Tokyo, Nikko, Osaka and Kyoto—and there’s no doubt I’ll be back.

 

Know Before You Go 

With a 12-hour flight ahead of you, a red-eye is recommended to fend off jet lag as much as possible! If you plan on taking trains as your main mode of transportation across the country, it’s a smart idea to get the JR Rail Pass—and note you’ll have to order it to your home beforehand. You’ll exchange these papers for your tickets once you arrive at the train station (note: only specific stations will have these booths for your pass). In other words, do your research beforehand.

There’s also some common-courtesy aspects to know before you travel to Japan; here are a few: no pointing (it’s considered rude), it’s rare to see anyone eating or drinking while walking (so sit down and enjoy your coffee—you’re on vacation), almost every hotel will provide pajamas during your stay, take your shoes off inside your hotel room and wear the slippers. 

 

Where to Stay 

Tokyo 

The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo

Explore: Ginza, TeamLab Planets Tokyo, The National Art Center 

Perched atop the towering Midtown Tower, The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo embodies luxury and sophistication. From the moment you step into the opulent lobby on the 45th floor, the hotel’s commitment to pristine service and attention to detail is crystal clear. The stunning panoramic views of the Tokyo skyline, with the iconic Mount Fuji in the distance, is the perfect way to welcome you to Tokyo. Stay on the Club Lounge levels for access to curated drinks and hors d’oeuvres, elevating your experience even more. Each guest room and suite is a sanctuary of elegance, boasting modern amenities and plush furnishings with elevated views. Indulge in exquisite culinary experiences at the hotel’s renowned restaurants, especially Hinokizaka where you can enjoy traditional Japanese kaiseki with stunning views of the city. Whether you seek a tranquil retreat or a lavish urban escape, The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo promises an unforgettable stay that will redefine your notion of luxury while giving you the warmest welcome to the city.

 

Park Hyatt Tokyo

Explore: Golden Gai, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Harajuku, Meiji Shrine, Yoyogi Park 

While the current aesthetic of this hotel gives off elevated vintage vibes, the Park Hyatt Tokyo is undergoing major renovations in 2024 (with an expected closing date of May 7, 2024). The iconic hotel will be closed for a full year as it gets an exciting, much-needed facelift for its 30th anniversary. Enjoy afternoon tea in the skylight bamboo garden, The Peak Lounge, and end the evening at the famous New York Bar, where live jazz music sets the scene on the 52nd floor.

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Nikko 

The Ritz-Carlton Nikko 

Explore: Explore Nikko and three different local waterfalls with a guided tour from the hotel 

A two-hour train ride from Tokyo takes you to the peaceful countryside of Japan. You’ll arrive in Nikko after taking the JR Nikko line to the last stop. Famous for fall foliage and the jaw-dropping Kegon Falls, Nikko is a place in Japan you didn’t know you needed to visit. And with the latest addition of The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko (which opened in 2020), it’s more than worth the trip—it might just be the highlight of your entire Japan journey. The sleek, modern design blended with local elements and traditional experiences immerses you in the culture of the country. A hotel frequented by locals for a weekend staycation, there’s no doubt this hotel got every detail right. The star of the property is the onsen, featuring local hot spring waters of Nikko Yumoto Onsen (a renowned destination for over 1,200 years) brought in by underground pipes. The world’s only The Ritz-Carlton-branded onsen, switch among the sauna, cold plunge and hot spring for the full experience and leave feeling like a brand new person.

 

Kyoto 

Explore: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama, Gion, Nishiki Market 

It’s worth experiencing a ryokan as one of your accommodations. A traditional Japanese hotel that is commonly found in hot spring resorts, guests sleep on a futon bed on a tatami mat and are typically treated like guests in someone’s home. While ryokans are plentiful, if you’re looking for something more mainstream, notable hotels in Kyoto include Aman Kyoto, Ace Hotel Kyoto and Hoshinoya Kyoto.

 

Osaka 

Explore: Amerika-mura, Dotonbori, Osaka Castle 

Each of these cities in Japan are so different from one another, and Osaka is no exception. The people here are a bit edgier—less traditional than say Tokyo. The food scene is incredible, and eating your way through Dotonbori is a must. Kyoto and Osaka are only a 15-minute train ride from one another, making it easy to see both cities.

Japan is filled with hundreds of thousands of incredible restaurants. While there may be some popular ones with outrageously long lines (thanks TikTok), some of the best meals are happenstance. While it would feel almost wrong recommending must-try restaurants after only one visit to the country, some notable meals were Kaikaya by the Sea in Tokyo, Ichiran Ramen (the hype is real), Yugen Tea House (the minimalist tea house of your dreams) and Bee’s Knees (a speakeasy behind a “Bookstore” door tucked away on a quaint street in Kyoto). Most restaurants are unassuming, and Google Translate will come in handy for any language barriers.

Beyond well-known cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, Japan’s neighborhoods offer endless exploration opportunities. Wander through the narrow streets of Tokyo’s Shinjuku, where towering skyscrapers coexist with traditional izakayas and vibrant nightlife. Lose yourself in the winding alleys of Kyoto’s Gion district, where geishas gracefully glide by and traditional wooden machiya houses transport you back in time. Discover the hidden gems of Osaka’s Dotonbori—a culinary paradise where neon lights and vibrant signs illuminate the bustling streets.

A trip to Japan is not just a vacation; it’s an adventure that immerses you in a culture deeply rooted in tradition and yet constantly evolving. It’s an invitation to experience the harmony between the old and the new, the bustling metropolises and the tranquil countryside and the warm hospitality of its people. So pack your bags, embark on this extraordinary trip and let the wonders of Japan unfold before your eyes.