Tight Travellers

By tighttravellers, May 2026

More specifically, perfect for first timers that want their Japan trip to look different from everyone else’s. Everybody travels the “golden route” in Japan – Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and there are already a ton of ‘places you have to visit’.

This guide is for tourists that hate tourists. Those who want to explore popular places like Mount Fuji, but also want to get off the beaten track.

We just spent an incredible 10 weeks in Japan as slow travellers! We travelled to over 10 prefectures and went from 6 foot a snow in’t North to tropical islands in’t South.

If you’re limited to just 2 weeks, here’s how we’d suggest maximizing your time!

The Ultimate 2 Week Japan Itinerary

• 4 days in Tokyo: The vibrant heart of Japan, where you can immerse yourself in the culture and energy.
• 4 days renting a camper: Explore the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and the Japanese Alps, visiting national parks along the way, and finishing in Osaka.
• 2 days in Kyoto: Don’t miss a day trip to Nara, filled with beautiful temples and friendly deer!
• 4 days in Okinawa: Relax on the stunning beaches and enjoy the island life.

We think this is the perfect mix of city and nature, while leaving time for liggin’ about on tropical islands!

Let’s ‘av a proper gander

Tokyo, the most clean and organised city we have ever been to. We ain’t usually city folk, but Tokyo was the absolute bollocks. Amazing food, and so many free activities!

We stayed at KoKo Hotel, Nishikasai, and honestly we would stay here again if we went back. Clean, comfortable, a short walk from the station, surrounded by good restaurants, and quite affordable.

Speaking of amazing food, ‘ere are some restaurants that we CANNOT stop thinking ‘bout!

1. Tonkatsu Den for juicy pork cutlet
2. Fukutei for Katsu Curry
3. Spaghetti no Pancho for the biggest portion of pasta!

The next 4 days of ya trip are definitely going to be more adventurous. Hire yoursen a camper van! We rented a mini camper for 3.5 weeks with Japan Campers and had the best time exploring away from the crowds.

Unfortunately, you ain’t got that much time. So we’d recommend heading West towards Nagano and Chubu-Sangaku National Park, making sure to stop at places like lake Suwa, Takabotchi Highlands, Shiraito Falls and Matsumoto Castle. Then, of course, head towards Mt Fuji for iconic views (hopefully without the crowds).

With Japan Campers, you can either drop the car off back in Tokyo, or in Osaka. So if you decide to drive down to Osaka, you can make a couple of pit stops (Nagoya, Nara). Once you’ve dropped the car off and spent a few hours exploring Osaka, get yoursen on a train to Kyoto.

Kyoto, a city full of tourists and a ton of things to do. We only spent 1 day in Kyoto and it wasn’t enough.

Top hotels in Kyoto

• NOHGA HOTEL KIYOMIZU KYOTO
• Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma
• Smart Place Inn Kyoto Shijo Horikawa

Spots not to miss:

1. Kinkaku-ji
2. Kyoto Botanical Gardens
3. Nishiki Market
4. Fushimi Inari Taisha (make sure you get there early / walk up to the top for fewer crowds)

After the chaos of Kyoto, you’ll be in need of a break – and what better place than Japan’s tropical islands.

From Osaka, you can fly to Okinawa’s main airport in Naha or fly to a smaller island like Ishigaki or Miyako. Spend your last few days in Japan island hopping, relaxing on white sand beaches, and swimming in the bluest water.

We flew to Naha, and visited the Kerama Islands. Check out our mini guides below.

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