Discover Japan on an alternative route: a 14-day itinerary without Kyoto!
After planning several trips for friends and family, I discovered that Japan has much more to offer than the well-known sights. Of course, we visited icons like Shibuya Crossing, but I also introduced them to hidden gems that you won’t find in a standard travel guide.
This trip is perfect for those who already know Japan and are now looking for unique, lesser-known places. From quiet temples to hidden gardens, Japan surprises every adventurous traveler with authentic experiences off the beaten track.
These experiences inspired me to create my own alternative Japan itinerary. Perfect for travelers looking for a unique experience in Japan and looking to avoid the busy tourist trails. Whether you want to discover new cultures, see hidden nature, or are simply looking for an authentic Japanese experience – these itineraries offer a fresh perspective on the country and are ideal for adventurous travelers who want to see Japan from a different perspective. Read on to find out more about this alternative travel route through Japan!
Join me on an alternative discovery tour of Japan
This 14-day alternative itinerary through Japan offers the flexibility to travel by car or train. Both options give you the freedom to enjoy breathtaking landscapes, authentic villages and impressive nature at your own pace. Curious about my first itinerary? Discover Japan in a unique way, without the usual stop in Kyoto, and be surprised by lesser-known but equally impressive destinations. Of course, you can adjust the itinerary to your preference, by adding extra days or new places for a tailor-made travel experience.
Tokyo – 4 Days: The Perfect Start to Your Japan Trip
Most international flights land in Tokyo, making it the perfect starting point for your Japanese adventure. Depending on your flight, you’ll arrive at either Haneda Airport (close to the city center) or Narita Airport (about a 1.5-hour train ride to Tokyo). Consider your arrival location when planning your time in the city. Flights to Narita are often a bit cheaper, but arriving at Haneda will save you travel time.
Jetlag
Remember that jetlag will hit you the moment you land. That’s why it’s a good idea to plan an extra day in Tokyo to acclimatize and explore the city at your leisure. Of course, I know that 4 days in Tokyo will never be enough, but with good planning and preparation, you can see and do quite a bit.
Divide Tokyo into Two
During your stay in Tokyo, it’s a good idea to divide the city into two parts: east and west. Depending on where you are staying, you can start exploring one of two areas. This layout will help you efficiently discover the main attractions and make the most of your time.
For more information and tips on exploring and visiting Tokyo, click here.
Yokohama – 2 days: Modern city with water views
From Tokyo, it’s easy to travel to Yokohama without wasting much time in transit. This dynamic port city offers a perfect short-stay escape and is ideal for travellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. It’s recommended to spend at least one night in Yokohama so you can explore the city at your own pace. A visit to Chinatown is a must.
Chinatown
Yokohama is home to one of Japan’s largest Chinatowns, with colourful temples, traditional markets and an abundance of delicious street food to tantalise your taste buds. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the vibrant culture and rich variety of Asian cuisine. A visit to Chinatown is especially fun around Chinese New Year, which is usually celebrated in early February. The streets come alive with colourful decorations, traditional performances and festive activities.
Skyline Views
Yokohama also offers breathtaking views of the city and the bay. Whether you enjoy the skyline from the city itself or from one of the viewpoints along the waterfront, the views of Yokohama Bay and the skyline will surely enchant you. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the panoramic view of one of Japan’s most beautiful port cities. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the Yokohama Sparkling Twilight event, where you’ll have a great view of a fireworks display. (I tried to attend this myself, but unfortunately the fireworks weren’t being set off, so I can’t guarantee anything.)
For more information and tips on exploring and visiting Yokohama, click here.
Kamakura & Enoshima – 2 Days: Visiting Little Kyoto
Although I was initially skeptical about Kamakura, this lovely coastal village really surprised me. Now that I know the quiet paths and less crowded temples, I can only recommend Kamakura! Explore the ancient paths of the Daibutsu Trail and escape the crowds and discover hidden gems.
Walking around Kamakura
From Yokohama it is not far to Kamakura. In and around Kamakura you will find countless walking routes along the most beautiful temples and Japanese shrines. Although the crowds in the Komachi-dori Street can be a bit overwhelming at first, you will soon discover the peace in the smaller streets. I like to wander through these quiet streets the most, where you will hardly encounter any tourists. Here you really come into contact with the typical Japanese houses in a traditional neighbourhood, far away from the tourist crowds.
Enoshima
From the beach, you can take a nice walk or take the small train to the Japanese peninsula of Enoshima. This island, known for its temples and shrines, offers a beautiful view of Mount Fuji in good weather. Enjoy the nature and the peaceful atmosphere here while admiring the iconic landscape.
For more information on exploring and visiting Kamakura, click here.
Shimoda – 3 days: Peace and surfing on the Japanese coast
From Kamakura you travel south towards Shimoda. On the way you can make an extra stop in Atami, a city known for its steep streets and beautiful flowering plum trees. Are you traveling by train? Then one of the most beautiful train routes in Japan awaits you!
A small port town with an island feeling
Shimoda is popular in July and August with Japanese people who want to escape the heat of Tokyo. Outside these months it is wonderfully quiet. This small port town has an almost ghostly atmosphere. In the summer it is bustling with surfers from all over the world. Because I have been to Shimoda several times now, I have written an extensive article about it. This part of Japan, located at the very end of the country, gives me a real island feeling, despite the fact that you are just on the mainland.
For more information about exploring and visiting Shimoda, click here.
Hakone – 3 days: Sulphuric smells and views of Mount Fuji
After your adventure in the south, you’ll travel back up to the last destination of this alternative itinerary through Japan: Hakone. Although this place is popular with Japanese people on weekends and can therefore be busy, Hakone is definitely not to be missed. Perhaps you can plan your trip so that you visit Hakone during the week. This way you can avoid the crowds of the weekends and enjoy this beautiful area of Japan in peace.
Mount Fuji in Hakone
Hakone offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, beautiful hikes along waterfalls and relaxing hot springs at Lake Ashi. Traveling by train? Then navigate to Hakone Yumoto Station, where you can take a charming mountain train back to your accommodation.
Want a Japanese hotel experience without breaking the bank? At this ryokan, you’ll sleep on a tatami mat, relax in the onsen, and enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast.
From Hakone you can easily travel back to Tokyo or Narita to conclude your journey through Japan.
