Start with fresh sushi or tamago-yaki and street snacks at Tsukiji Outer Market; many stalls open from early morning (roughly 5:00–14:00), ideal to beat lines and try fresh seafood.
A peaceful Shinto shrine set inside a large forested area — great intro to Japanese shrines and a calm walk away from busy streets; shrine grounds open from sunrise to sunset (approx 5:00–18:00).
Experience the iconic scramble crossing, visit the Hachiko statue and explore Shibuya Center-gai for shops and viewpoints; best photo times mid-afternoon or evening.
Lively izakaya-style restaurant with grilled dishes and tempura in an atmospheric setting, open evenings (usually until ~23:00); reservations recommended for dinner.
Interactive digital art museum (teamLab Planets usually open 10:00–21:00) followed by a stroll along Odaiba waterfront for Rainbow Bridge and Statue of Liberty views.
Scenic railway ride from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto ~85–90 minutes; book seats in advance for Romancecar. Plan for luggage or use a takkyubin luggage service.
Visit volcanic Owakudani (ropeway hours often around 9:00–16:00; closure possible during high volcanic activity) or stroll lakeside to Hakone Shrine for torii views.
Stay at a ryokan with hot-spring baths; traditional multi-course kaiseki dinner is usually included or available by reservation — a highlight of Hakone.
Iconic shrine famed for thousands of vermilion torii gates; open 24 hours and free to explore, best later afternoon to avoid the largest morning crowds.
Wander atmospheric streets of Gion and Pontocho and choose a traditional kaiseki or izakaya; many restaurants open for dinner from 17:00–22:00 (reservations recommended).
Beat the crowds with an early stroll through the bamboo grove; area is open 24 hours though shops open later — best early morning for photos and calm atmosphere.
Panoramic views of Osaka from the rooftop observatory; open generally 10:00–22:30 — a good late-afternoon or early-evening spot before heading to departure.
Pick up souvenirs in Namba/Shinsaibashi or transfer to Kansai Airport (KIX) or Itami for departure; allow ample transfer time (1–1.5 hours to KIX by train).
Enjoy a final bowl of rich ramen or shared izakaya plates in Dotonbori; many ramen shops like Ichiran have late hours (some 24h branches) for flexible departure schedules.