-Day Japan Itinerary: Luxury Travel Guide to 17 Cities with $2465 Budget Breakdown

**Ultimate Japan Adventure: 17 Cities in 12 Days**

**Itinerary Highlights:**
I embarked on an unforgettable journey across Japan, exploring 17 incredible destinations—from the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the historic temples of Kyoto, the coastal charm of Kamakura, and the alpine beauty of Takayama. Each stop offered unique experiences: savoring matcha in Uji, wandering through Kanazawa’s samurai districts, and marveling at Himeji Castle’s grandeur.

**Budget Breakdown:**

– **Accommodation:**
– 5 nights in Osaka (¥108)
– 3 nights in Tokyo (¥72)
– 1 night each in Kanazawa (¥24), Yugawara (¥24), and Gifu (¥37)
– **Pro Tip:** Saved with a ¥30 Agoda discount and Airbnb new-user coupons.
– **Total:** ¥265

– **Transportation:**
– Flight from Korea to Tokyo (¥210)
– 3-day Tokyo metro pass (¥70)
– Seishun 18 ticket (¥560) for unlimited local train rides
– Kansai Mini Pass (¥133) for regional travel
– Additional trips to Kasukabe, Kanazawa, Odaiba, and Narita (¥130)
– **Total:** ¥1,103

– **Food Adventures:**
– Indulged in a premium Kobe beef rice bowl (¥93) and melt-in-your-mouth eel rice (¥56)
– Budget-friendly delights: beef buffet (¥4), mixed meal sets (¥26), and convenience store feasts (~¥20 per meal)
– Sweet treats: Uji matcha (¥56) and two decadent cakes (¥46)
– **Hidden Gem:** Tamade supermarket’s ¥4 fried rice and ¥5 milk bread!
– **Total:** ¥800+

– **Must-See Attractions:**
– Shibuya Sky’s breathtaking city views (¥120)
– Himeji Castle’s majestic architecture (¥50)
– Abeno Harukas observation deck (free with pass)
– **Total:** ¥170

– **Extras:**
– Stayed connected with a local SIM card (¥60)
– *Note:* Visa fees vary, and return flight (Osaka to Taipei, ¥170) is part of the next trip’s budget.

**Step Count:**
Over 300,000 steps logged on WeChat! After conquering 130,000 steps in 48 hours and 200,000 in 5 days previously, this 12-day marathon felt like a victory lap.

**Final Thoughts:**
Far from a bare-bones budget trip, this was a carefully curated blend of luxury and affordability. I relished premium meals, comfortable stays, and iconic sights—all while spending just ¥2,000. Japan proved that unforgettable experiences don’t have to break the bank!