Short Summary: 15-Day Japan Itinerary (Sapporo → Fukuoka)

This itinerary is 15-day long since you would activate your pass on the 2nd day when you depart Sapporo, for maximum usage of the pass. Want to learn more about the JR Pass? Visit jrpass.com for detailed information!

Day 1–2: Sapporo & Otaru – Northern landscapes, miso ramen, seafood
Day 3: Hakodate – Morning Market, Mt. Hakodate night view, uni don
Day 4–5: Sendai & Matsushima – Castle ruins, bay cruises, gyutan
Day 6–7: Tokyo – Asakusa, Shibuya, Harajuku, wagyu & sushi
Day 8: Hikone – Hikone Castle + Omi beef
Day 9–10: Kyoto – Temples, shrines, bamboo forest, matcha sweets
Day 11: Nara – Deer Park, Todai-ji, countryside peace, kakinoha sushi
Day 12: Osaka – Dotonbori, castle, takoyaki & okonomiyaki
Day 13: Hiroshima & Miyajima – Peace Park, floating torii, okonomiyaki
Day 14: Himeji – Himeji Castle, seasonal scenery
Day 15: Fukuoka – Canal City, Hakata ramen, yatai food stalls

Want to learn more about the JR Pass? Visit jrpass.com for detailed information!

Day 1–2: Sapporo & Otaru (Hokkaido) – Northern Japan’s Seasonal Charm

Start your journey in Sapporo, a destination known for its crisp Winter landscapes, open parks, and relaxed urban atmosphere. Whether you're visiting during Summer festivals or Fall foliage season, the city always offers beautiful Aesthetic scenery and exciting Things To Do.
Must-try food: Sapporo miso ramen, soup curry, and fresh Hokkaido crab.

Activate your JR Pass on Day 2 and take a short trip to Otaru, a nostalgic port town with charming canals and a peaceful countryside feel.
Must-try food: Otaru sushi and LeTAO cheesecake.

Day 3: Hakodate – Scenic Port City With Night Views

Hakodate is one of Japan’s most atmospheric Destinations, offering early-morning market strolls and the legendary night view from Mount Hakodate. Whether it’s snow, cherry blossoms, or clear summer skies, the view changes beautifully by season.
Must-try food: Hakodate shio ramen and fresh uni don.

For more detailed sightseeing ideas, check my full Hakodate Guide

Day 4–5: Sendai & Matsushima – Culture and Coastal Beauty

Ride the Shinkansen to Sendai, a lively northern city blending nature and history. It's a great stop whether you're planning a Holiday in Spring cherry blossoms or Fall colors.
Must-try food: Gyutan (beef tongue) and zunda mochi.

On Day 5, visit Matsushima Bay—one of Japan’s top scenic Destinations with calm waters and pine-covered islands that offer a peaceful Aesthetic perfect for photography.
Must-try food: Grilled oysters and anago (saltwater eel).Hakodate – Scenic Port City With Night Views

Day 6–7: Tokyo – Japan’s Iconic Urban Experience

Tokyo is the heart of modern Japan and a must-visit highlight on any Itinerary. Explore Asakusa, Shibuya, Harajuku, and Akihabara, each packed with unique Things To Do and plenty of atmospheric Aesthetic corners.
Must-try food: Tonkatsu, wagyu beef, monjayaki, and Tokyo-style sushi.

On Day 7, continue discovering hidden alleys, seasonal gardens, and vibrant shopping districts—perfect for any Vacation.

Day 8: Hikone Castle – Elegant History in Japan’s Countryside

Travel to Shiga Prefecture and explore one of Japan’s most beautifully preserved castles. Hikone Castle offers a slower pace and stunning countryside scenery, especially lovely in Spring and Fall.
Must-try food: Omi beef (one of Japan’s top three wagyu varieties).

Want more photos and Things To Do in Hikone? Visit my Hikone Castle Travel Guide

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Day 9–10: Kyoto – Traditional Aesthetic and Timeless Beauty

Kyoto is one of the top Destinations for travelers seeking classic Japan charm. Visit Kinkaku-ji, Arashiyama, and Fushimi Inari for iconic Aesthetic views—vibrant in Summer, colorful in Fall, fresh in Spring, and serene in Winter.
Must-try food: Matcha desserts, yudofu, kaiseki dishes, and Kyoto-style soba.

On Day 10, explore Gion, Nijo Castle, and the Philosopher’s Path. This is a highlight of the entire Itinerary, combining history, culture, and seasonal landscapes.

Day 11: Nara – Sacred Temples and Quiet Countryside

Take a short ride to Nara for quiet walks, friendly deer, and peaceful temple grounds. Its relaxed countryside setting is perfect for travelers seeking a slower moment during their fast-paced Vacation.
Must-try food: Kakinoha sushi, Nara mochi, and somen noodles.

Check more detailed sightseeing ideas in Nara on Discover the Best of Nara by Train

Day 12: Osaka – Food Capital of Japan

Osaka is all about energy, neon lights, and delicious Food. Dotonbori, Osaka Castle, and local markets offer both modern and traditional Things To Do, making it a fun addition to your Holiday or Itinerary.
Must-try food: Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, and yakiniku.

Day 13: Hiroshima & Miyajima – Powerful History and Iconic Aesthetic

Hiroshima offers deeply meaningful Destinations such as the Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome, combined with modern city charm.
Must-try food: Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki and fresh oysters.

Head to Miyajima Island for one of Japan’s most famous scenic views—the floating torii gate. Seasonal changes make its Aesthetic stunning year-round.
Must-try food: Momiji manju (sweet maple-leaf pastries).

Planning a day trip to the island? Here’s my Miyajima Itinerary and Travel Tips

Day 14: Himeji – Japan’s Most Beautiful Castle

Explore Himeji Castle, known as the White Heron Castle. It’s one of Japan’s best Things To Do for history lovers and offers spectacular Aesthetic views in all seasons—especially Spring sakura and Fall colors.
Must-try food: Himeji oden and conger eel dishes.

Continue to Fukuoka in the evening.

Day 15: Fukuoka – Kyushu's Gateway City

End your north-to-south journey in Fukuoka, known for friendly locals, modern shopping streets, and a relaxed seaside atmosphere perfect for ending a long Vacation.
Must-try food: Hakata tonkotsu ramen, mentaiko, and yatai street stall snacks.

This fast-paced but comprehensive Travel Itinerary is perfect for travelers who want to see as much of Japan as possible in just two weeks. With scenic countryside landscapes, famous Destinations, delicious regional Food, and endless Things To Do, it creates an unforgettable journey—no matter the season: Winter, Summer, Spring, or Fall.

Want to learn more about the Japan Rail Pass? Visit jrpass.com for detailed information!