Explore Japan's diverse beauty in 7 days! From the Tottori Sand Dunes to Hiroshima's Peace Memorial, this itinerary blends nature, history, and local culture. Follow for more exciting travel adventures!
Weather: A humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild, wet winters.
Summer (June-August): Expect temperatures around 25-30°C (77-86°F) with high humidity.
Autumn (September-November): Pleasant temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F) with clear skies.
Winter (December-February): Cold and wet with temperatures around 5-10°C (41-50°F).
Spring (March-May): Mild and pleasant with temperatures gradually rising from 10-20°C (50-68°F).
General Travel Tips for all three cities:
Language: While English is not widely spoken, basic phrases can be helpful.
Currency: The currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY).
Transportation: Japan has an efficient and reliable public transportation system.
Food: Japanese cuisine is diverse and delicious. Be sure to try local specialties.
Culture: Japan has a rich culture with many traditions and customs. Be respectful of local customs.
Safety: Japan is a safe country to travel in. However, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Japan. Check the Japanese embassy website for visa requirements.
Hotel:
Flight: Check Here
Day 1: Tottori Sand Dunes and a Taste of Local Charm
My journey began in Tottori, where I arrived at the airport and was greeted by the warm Japanese hospitality. After a quick walk to my hotel, the Green Rich Hotel Tottori Ekimae, I settled in and started my exploration.
First up was a delicious breakfast at Sunaba Coffee (MAP), where I indulged in a traditional Japanese breakfast for around ¥1,000. After breakfast, I took a 38-minute train ride to the Sakyu Kaikan (MAP), a museum dedicated to the Tottori Sand Dunes (MAP).
I spent a couple of hours exploring the museum (MAP) and learning about the unique ecosystem of the dunes. For lunch, I enjoyed a light meal at the museum's cafe for about ¥1,000.
In the afternoon, I ventured out to the Tottori Sand Dunes themselves. The vast expanse of sand was truly awe-inspiring. I spent the afternoon exploring the dunes, trying out sandboarding, and enjoying the views. The dunes are a must-see for any visitor to Tottori, and the entrance fee is around ¥3,500.
After my dune adventure, I visited the Sand Museum (MAP), a unique museum showcasing sand sculptures from around the world. The museum is a testament to the artistry of sand, and the entrance fee is around ¥800.
To end my day, I enjoyed a delightful dinner at Charcoal-grilled Fukumasa (MAP), savoring the local cuisine for about ¥8,000. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and delicious food made it the perfect end to a day filled with adventure.
Day 2: Hakuto Shrine and a Relaxing Onsen Experience
Day two started with a leisurely breakfast at Doutor JR Tottori Station (MAP)
for about ¥700. I then took a 44-minute train ride to Hakuto Shrine (MAP),
a serene Shinto shrine nestled amidst lush greenery. I spent the morning exploring the shrine's grounds and learning about its history.
The shrine is known for its matchmaking and good luck wishes, so I made sure to offer a prayer for good fortune.
Recommended: Omamori - Purchase good-luck charms at the shrine office
After my visit to the shrine, I took a short walk to the Hakuto Coast, where I enjoyed the stunning views of the coastline. I then took a two-hour train ride to Kaike Onsen Bayside Square, a beautiful hot spring resort. I spent the evening relaxing in the Shio-no-yu open-air bath, enjoying the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs.
Day 3: Mizuki Shigeru Museum and the World of Yokai
After a relaxing morning at the hot spring resort, I took a one-and-a-half-hour train ride to Sakaiminato, a charming coastal town.
My first stop was the Mizuki Shigeru Museum (MAP), a museum dedicated to the works of the famous manga artist Mizuki Shigeru. The museum is a fascinating glimpse into the world of yokai, Japanese folklore creatures, and the entrance fee is around ¥200-1,000.
Recommended: GeGeGe Entrance, Mizuki Shigeru Manga World, Mizuki Gallery, Neboke Life Room, Yokai Cave, etc.
For lunch, I enjoyed a delicious sushi meal at Sakaiminato Kaiten-zushi Sushi (MAP) Kaba for about ¥3,000. After lunch, I visited the Gegege no Yokai Rakuen (MAP), a theme park filled with yokai statues and attractions. The park is a fun and whimsical experience for all ages, and the entrance fee is around ¥500.
After my adventure in Sakaiminato, I took a three-and-a-half-hour train ride to Okayama, where I checked into the Toyoko Inn Hotel.
Day 4: Okayama Castle and a Stroll Through Korakuen Garden
My day in Okayama began with a hearty breakfast at Greenberry's Coffee (MAP) for about ¥1,000. After breakfast, I took a 19-minute bus ride to Okayama Castle (MAP), a magnificent castle that has stood for centuries. I spent the morning exploring the castle's grounds and learning about its history. The castle is a must-see for any visitor to Okayama, and the entrance fee is around ¥300.
Recommended: Visit the reconstructed castle known as “crow castle” due to its black exterior, explore the "Tsukimi Yagura".
For lunch, I enjoyed a delicious tonkatsu donburi at Aji Shoya Nokawa (MAP)
for about ¥1,000.
Recommended: Sauce Katsudon - Pork cutlet with a special black sauce.
Tamago Katsudon - Traditional pork cutlet bowl topped with egg and seaweed.
After lunch, I took a 19-minute walk to Okayama Korakuen Garden (MAP), a beautiful Japanese garden that has been designated a National Special Place of Scenic Beauty. I spent the afternoon strolling through the garden's serene paths and admiring the meticulously designed landscapes. The garden is a true oasis of tranquility, and the entrance fee is around ¥400.
Recommended: Visit the Crane Aviary, Enjoy the seasonal flowers and maple trees, Relax in a teahouse over matcha green tea, Admire the view from Yuishinzan Hill.
In the evening, I enjoyed a delicious ramen dinner at Chukasoba Yamafuji Hommachi Branch (MAP) for about ¥1,000. The ramen was flavorful and comforting, the perfect end to a day filled with history and beauty.
Recommended: Shoyu (soy sauce) ramen, Shio (salt) ramen
Day 5: Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter and Art Appreciation
After breakfast at THE COFFEE BAR (MAP) for about ¥1,000, I took a 39-minute train ride to Kurashiki, a charming town known for its preserved Edo-era streets. I spent the morning exploring the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter (MAP), a beautiful area filled with traditional white-walled warehouses and canals. I took a relaxing boat ride along the canal, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. The boat ride costs around ¥250-500.
Recommended: Take a boat ride on the Kurashiki River, Visit the Ohara Museum of Art, Shop for local specialties and handicrafts, Enjoy the night lights along the canals.
For lunch, I enjoyed a delicious zaru udon at Bukkake Furuichi (MAP) for about ¥800. After lunch, I visited the Ohara Museum of Art (MAP), a museum showcasing a collection of Japanese and Western art. The museum is a must-see for art lovers, and the entrance fee is around ¥2,000.
In the afternoon, I visited Ario Kurashiki (MAP), a shopping and entertainment complex, where I enjoyed browsing the shops and indulging in some retail therapy.
For dinner, I enjoyed a delicious shabu-shabu meal at Qoo Shabu-Shabu (MAP) for about ¥6,000. The shabu-shabu was fresh and flavorful, and the restaurant's lively atmosphere made it a fun dining experience.
Day 6: Itsukushima Shrine and Miyajima Island
After breakfast at Saint Marc Cafe (MAP) for about ¥700, I took a one-and-a-half-hour train ride to Miyajima Island, home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine (MAP). I spent the morning exploring the shrine's grounds, marveling at the iconic floating torii gate. The shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for any visitor to Japan, and the entrance fee is around ¥100-300.
Recommended: Witness the “floating” torii gate at high tide, visit the main shrine with its unique construction over water, see the Five-Storied Pagoda, Goju-no-to, walk out to the torii gate during low tide, enjoy the night illumination of the shrine and torii gate.
For lunch, I enjoyed a delicious oyster meal at Kakiya (MAP). a local oyster restaurant near the shrine. The oysters were fresh and flavorful, and the restaurant's cozy atmosphere made it a delightful dining experience.
Recommended: Grilled Oysters, Deep-fried Oysters, Steamed Oysters on Rice,
Oyster Miso Soup, Raw Oysters
After lunch, I explored the Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street (MAP)
a charming street lined with shops and restaurants. I enjoyed browsing the shops and sampling some local delicacies.
For dinner, I enjoyed a delicious Japanese meal at Nikutei Ichiyuku (MAP) for about ¥8,000. The restaurant's elegant atmosphere and delicious food made it a memorable dining experience.
Day 7: Hiroshima Peace Memorial and Shukkeien Garden
After a quick breakfast at the hotel, I took a one-hour train ride to Hiroshima, a city known for its historical significance. I spent the morning exploring the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park (MAP) a poignant reminder of the atomic bombing that occurred in 1945.
Recommended: View the Atomic Bomb Dome, visit the Children’s Peace Monument, ring the Peace Bell.
I visited the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum (MAP) where I learned about the devastating effects of the bombing and the importance of peace. The museum's exhibits were moving and thought-provoking, and the entrance fee is around ¥100-200.
For lunch, I enjoyed a delicious Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Okonomiyaki Micchan Sohonten (MAP) for about ¥1,500. The okonomiyaki was savory and flavorful, and the restaurant's lively atmosphere made it a fun dining experience.
Recommended: Soba Meat and Egg, Udon Nikutamago.
After lunch, I visited Shukkeien Garden (MAP),a beautiful Japanese garden that has been designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty. I spent the afternoon strolling through the garden's serene paths and admiring the meticulously designed landscapes. The garden is a true oasis of tranquility, and the entrance fee is around ¥100-260.
Recommended: Visit the tea houses for a traditional experience, Climb to Geikiho peak for a great view.
My journey ended at Hiroshima Airport, where I boarded my flight home, filled with memories of a truly unforgettable trip.
Final Thoughts
My seven-day trip through Tottori, Okayama, and Hiroshima was a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture. I highly recommend this itinerary to anyone looking for a relaxing and enriching travel experience in Japan. From the stunning Tottori Sand Dunes to the serene Itsukushima Shrine, there's something for everyone in this diverse region. And with delicious food and friendly people, you're sure to have a memorable trip.
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