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16 Nights in Japan: Tokyo Base with Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka & Day Trips (Sept 7–23, 2025)

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Day 1: Arrival & Settle

Tokyo, Japan on September 7, 2025

3:00pm

Arrive & Hotel Check-in

Land at Narita/Haneda, take airport transfer to your Tokyo hotel and drop bags; collect a PASMO/Suica card for easy travel.
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5:00pm

Short Walk — Shinjuku Stroll

Stretch your legs around Shinjuku station: see the department stores, Takashimaya Times Square, and the energy of the streets as Tokyo lights up.
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7:00pm

Dinner — Omoide Yokocho Izakaya

Casual grilled skewers and small plates in Omoide Yokocho — great first-night vibe and close to most central hotels. Many stalls open until late (approx 17:00–23:30).
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9:00pm

Optional — Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observ.

Free nighttime view of Tokyo from the observation deck in Shinjuku; open until about 11:00pm (check current schedule).
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Day 2: Tsukiji & Ginza

Tokyo, Japan on September 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast — Tsukiji Outer Market

Eat fresh seafood stalls and small restaurants in the Outer Market; many vendors open early and most close around 2:00pm, so come early for the best choice.
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9:30am

Walk — Ginza Shopping District

Window shop luxury boutiques and flagship stores along Chuo-dori; stores usually open from 10:00–20:00 but luxury shops may open earlier.
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12:30pm

Lunch — Tempura at Ginza 'Tsunahachi' (or similar)

Classic tempura set in Ginza for a refined lunchtime experience; many tempura restaurants open 11:00–14:00 for lunch service.
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2:30pm

Imperial Palace East Gardens

Stroll the neatly landscaped gardens of the Imperial Palace; generally open 9:00–16:30 (closed Mondays/Fridays—check calendar).
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6:30pm

Dinner — Sushi in Ginza (mid-range)

Enjoy a well-made sushi omakase or set at a trusted mid-range sushi restaurant in Ginza (reservations recommended; many open 17:00–22:00).
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Day 3: Asakusa & Skytree

Tokyo, Japan on September 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast — Coffee & Melonpan in Asakusa

Grab a fresh melonpan or Japanese-style breakfast near Senso-ji before the crowds; many shops open 7:00–9:00.
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8:30am

Visit — Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa)

Tokyo’s oldest temple and lively Nakamise shopping street, best early to avoid crowds; Senso-ji precincts are typically open from early morning until dusk.
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10:30am

Sumida River Walk & Tobu Asakusa Area

Stroll the riverside promenade toward Tokyo Skytree and enjoy views of the river and neighborhoods en route.
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12:00pm

Lunch — Tokyo Skytree Solamachi Food Floor

Wide variety of regional Japanese dishes in the Solamachi mall; Skytree observation decks open approx 9:00–21:00 (last entry varies).
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1:30pm

Visit — Tokyo Skytree Observation Deck

Panoramic views of Tokyo from one of the city’s tallest towers — book tickets in advance to avoid lines.
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4:00pm

Akihabara Electronics & Anime Walk

Explore retro electronics stores, anime shops, and themed cafés; shops typically open 10:00–20:00, evening arcades stay open later.
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7:30pm

Dinner — Ramen in Akihabara

Try a specialty ramen shop for an easy, delicious dinner; many ramen shops open until late-night hours.
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Day 4: Ueno & Museums

Tokyo, Japan on September 10, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast — Coffee & Onigiri

Quick local breakfast near Ueno Station to fuel a museum day; convenience stores and cafés open from early morning.
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9:30am

Tokyo National Museum

Japan’s flagship museum with samurai armor, Buddhist art, and more; usually open 9:30–17:00 (closed Mondays), allow 1.5–2 hours.
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12:30pm

Lunch — Ameyoko Street Market

Bustling street market with street food, seafood stalls, and casual eateries open most of the day; perfect for trying varied local bites.
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2:00pm

Stroll — Ueno Park & Toshogu Shrine

Relax in Ueno Park, visit the Toshogu Shrine and park ponds; park is open daily and pleasant in late summer/early autumn.
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5:30pm

Dinner — Izakaya near Ueno

Casual izakaya dinner sampling small plates and local sake; many izakayas open 17:00–23:00.
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Day 5: Harajuku & Shibuya

Tokyo, Japan on September 11, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast — Crepes in Takeshita Street

Sweet or savory crepes are a Harajuku classic; many vendors open 10:00 but some bakeries open earlier — best before crowds arrive.
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9:30am

Meiji Shrine

Large Shinto shrine set in a peaceful forested area near Harajuku; open from around 5:00/6:00 until dusk, admission free (museum may have fee).
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11:00am

Omotesando & Kiddy Land

Architectural omotesando avenue and specialty shops like Kiddy Land for souvenirs and character goods; stores generally open 11:00–20:00.
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1:00pm

Lunch — Tonkatsu in Aoyama

Crisp breaded pork cutlet in trendy Aoyama — a satisfying lunch before an afternoon of shopping.
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3:30pm

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko

Experience the famous scramble crossing and explore Shibuya Center-gai and Shibuya Sky observation (Sky hours approx 10:00–22:00).
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8:00pm

Dinner — Golden Gai or Omoide Yokocho (Shinjuku)

Head back to Shinjuku for tiny themed bars in Golden Gai or small eateries in Omoide Yokocho; many bars open late-night, restaurants usually 17:00–23:00.
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Day 6: Kamakura Day

Kamakura, Japan on September 12, 2025

8:00am

Train to Kamakura

Take the JR/Enoden lines to coastal Kamakura (about 1 hour from central Tokyo) to visit temples and the Great Buddha; trains run early and frequently.
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9:30am

Visit — Kotoku-in (Great Buddha)

Iconic outdoor bronze Buddha statue (open 8:00–16:30 typically); peaceful and a classic photo stop.
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11:00am

Hasedera Temple & Gardens

Temple with sea views, gardens, and a famous Kannon statue; open roughly 8:00–17:00 and worth a slower wander.
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1:00pm

Lunch — Seafood Near Komachi-dori

Komachi-dori street has casual eateries featuring fresh seafood and local treats; many shops open 10:00–18:00.
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3:00pm

Enoshima or Beach Walk

Optional short trip to Enoshima island for seaside views or relax on the beach; seasonal hours vary, check Enoshima facilities.
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7:00pm

Return & Dinner in Tokyo

Back to Tokyo for dinner — try a neighborhood izakaya near your hotel for local flavors and an easy evening.
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Day 7: Hakone Transfer

Hakone, Japan on September 13, 2025

8:00am

Depart Tokyo for Hakone

Take Odakyu Romancecar (reserved seats) or bullet train + local line to Hakone-Yumoto; journey ~1.5–2 hours depending on route.
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11:00am

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Sculpture park with art and outdoor galleries — open typically 9:00–17:00; a great blend of nature and modern art.
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1:00pm

Lunch — Local soba or kaiseki

Enjoy regional specialties near Gora or Hakone-Yumoto; many restaurants serve lunchtime courses from 11:00–14:00.
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3:00pm

Check-in to Ryokan & Onsen

Arrive at a traditional ryokan, check in (usually after 15:00), relax in private or public onsen and enjoy the ryokan’s evening kaiseki dinner.
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7:00pm

Dinner — Ryokan Kaiseki

Multi-course traditional dinner served at the ryokan — a special experience focusing on seasonal ingredients (ryokan dinner times typically 18:00–20:00).
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Day 8: Hakone Views

Hakone, Japan on September 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ryokan

Japanese-style breakfast at the ryokan to start the day before sightseeing; breakfasts often served early around 7:00–8:30.
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9:30am

Hakone Ropeway & Owakudani (if open)

Ride the ropeway for views of Mt. Fuji and volcanic Owakudani valley — note Owakudani closures if volcanic activity is present; ropeway approx 9:00–17:00.
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12:30pm

Lunch — Lake Ashi Boatside

Relax with lakeside views and local cuisine around Lake Ashi; many cafés open midday with lake views.
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2:30pm

Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Ashi

Short one-hour cruise with views of Hakone Shrine’s torii and, on clear days, Mt. Fuji; boats run frequently, check seasonal timetable.
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5:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Catch an afternoon train back to Tokyo (approx 1.5–2 hours) and check into your hotel for an evening in the city.
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8:00pm

Dinner — Casual Tokyo Neighborhood

Nighttime dinner near your hotel; try a yakitori or tempura restaurant open 17:30–22:00.
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Day 9: Shinkansen to Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on September 15, 2025

8:00am

Shinkansen Tokyo → Kyoto

Take a morning Shinkansen (Nozomi ~2h20m) to Kyoto; book seats in advance for convenience — stations open early for departures.
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11:00am

Check-in & Lunch near Kyoto Station

Drop bags at the hotel then grab a Kyoto-style lunch (udon, obanzai, or bento) — many station eateries open 10:00–21:00.
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1:30pm

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Iconic torii gate pathway up the Inari mountain; open 24 hours and best visited mid-afternoon to early evening to avoid the busiest times.
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4:30pm

Explore Gion District

Walk historic streets of Gion and Hanamikoji — perfect for evening photos and spotting traditional teahouses (shops 10:00–19:00; teahouses vary).
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7:30pm

Dinner — Kaiseki or Yakiniku in Pontocho

Enjoy Kyoto cuisine in the atmospheric Pontocho alley; many restaurants require reservations and serve dinner from 17:30–22:00.
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Day 10: Arashiyama & Temples

Kyoto, Japan on September 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast — Local Café or Hotel

Fuel up for a big day visiting Arashiyama; many cafés open by 7:00–8:00 in Kyoto.
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8:30am

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Togetsukyo Bridge

Beat crowds by arriving early at the bamboo grove; open 24 hours though early morning is most peaceful.
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10:30am

Tenryu-ji Temple

UNESCO site with beautiful gardens (usually open 8:30–17:30); combine with a stroll in the Arashiyama area.
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12:30pm

Lunch — Yudofu or Local Soba

Try Kyoto specialties like yudofu (simmered tofu) near temples — many temple-area restaurants open at lunchtime.
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3:00pm

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the dazzling golden temple and its reflective pond; open roughly 9:00–17:00 — arrive before late afternoon.
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6:30pm

Dinner — Pontocho Alley Izakaya

Evening in Pontocho sampling local small plates and Kyoto-style beers or sake; many eateries open 17:30–23:00.
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Day 11: Nara Day Trip

Nara, Japan on September 17, 2025

8:00am

Train Kyoto → Nara

Short train ride (~45 minutes) to Nara to visit Todai-ji and Nara Park; trains are frequent from Kyoto in the morning.
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9:00am

Todai-ji Temple & Great Buddha

Home to the giant Daibutsu (Great Buddha) and extensive temple grounds; temple hours typically 8:00–17:00.
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11:00am

Stroll Nara Park (Deer)

Friendly (but wild) deer roam the park; buy deer crackers if you wish to feed them — park open all day.
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1:00pm

Lunch — Local Nara Specialties

Try kakinoha-zushi (pressed sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves) or a casual soba shop near the park.
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3:00pm

Return to Kyoto & Free Afternoon

Return to Kyoto for shopping or exploring less-visited shrines; a relaxed afternoon to enjoy the city.
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7:00pm

Dinner — Kyoto-style Izakaya

Finish the day with yakitori, small plates and local sake close to your hotel in Kyoto.
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Day 12: Osaka Evening

Osaka, Japan on September 18, 2025

9:00am

Travel Kyoto → Osaka

Short trip to Osaka (15–30 minutes by local train or 30 minutes by rapid service); arrive mid-morning to explore Dotonbori and Umeda.
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11:00am

Osaka Castle Park

Visit the historic castle and museum (hours approx 9:00–17:00); great for photos and learning Osaka history.
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1:00pm

Lunch — Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki in Dotonbori

Sample Osaka’s street-food specialties in the lively Dotonbori area — many stalls and restaurants open 11:00–22:00.
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3:00pm

Umeda Sky Building Observation

Panoramic views from the Floating Garden Observatory (open ~10:00–22:30), especially nice in late afternoon light.
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6:30pm

Dinner — Dotonbori Nightlife

Feast on street food, neon-lit canal views, and lively nightlife — Osaka earns its nickname 'Japan’s Kitchen'.
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Day 13: Hiroshima & Miyajima

Hiroshima & Miyajima, Japan on September 19, 2025

7:00am

Shinkansen to Hiroshima

Early shinkansen from Osaka/Kyoto to Hiroshima (~1.5–2 hours) for a day trip to the Peace Park and Miyajima.
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10:00am

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum

Moving and informative museum and park remembering the 1945 bombing (museum hours ~8:30–18:00 depending on season); allow 1.5–2 hours.
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12:30pm

Lunch — Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki

Thick savory pancake layered with noodles — a local specialty found in multiple Hiroshima eateries open through lunchtime.
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2:30pm

Miyajima Island (Itsukushima)

Ferry to Miyajima to see the famous floating torii and Itsukushima Shrine; shrine hours generally 6:30–18:00 depending on season, ferries run frequently.
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7:30pm

Return to Kansai (Osaka/Kyoto)

Evening shinkansen back to your Kansai base — relax after a full day of significant sites.
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Day 14: Back to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on September 20, 2025

9:00am

Shinkansen Osaka/Kyoto → Tokyo

Return to Tokyo by morning or midday shinkansen (approx 2.5–3 hours); arrive afternoon and check into your Tokyo hotel.
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2:00pm

Odaiba — TeamLab or Palette Town area

Visit Odaiba for museum or digital art at teamLab Borderless/Planets (book ahead; hours often 10:00–19:00) and waterfront views.
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5:30pm

Stroll — Rainbow Bridge & DiverCity

Evening waterfront stroll and see the Gundam statue at DiverCity; shopping and restaurants open until late evening.
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7:30pm

Dinner — Odaiba Seaside Restaurant

Dinner with bay views; many restaurants open 11:00–22:00, perfect for a relaxed return-to-Tokyo evening.
JPY3500, 1h30m

Day 15: Nikko Day Trip

Nikko, Japan on September 21, 2025

7:00am

Train Tokyo → Nikko

Take an early limited express or Tobu Railway (approx 2 hours) to Nikko to visit Toshogu Shrine and the national park; trains run regularly early in the day.
JPY2500, 2h0m

10:00am

Toshogu Shrine

Lavishly decorated UNESCO shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu; open typically 8:00–17:00 depending on season — plan 1–1.5 hours.
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12:30pm

Lunch — Yuba or Local Zenkoji Food

Try nikko yuba (tofu skin) specialties at a nearby restaurant; many open by 11:00–14:00 for lunch service.
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2:30pm

Kegon Falls or Lake Chuzenji

Short bus ride to scenic Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls; check seasonal access and bus timetables (daytime service).
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6:00pm

Return to Tokyo & Dinner

Return to Tokyo by evening train and enjoy a casual dinner near your hotel; consider a relaxed sushi or soba place open late.
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Day 16: Last Tokyo Day

Tokyo, Japan on September 22, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast — Local Café

Easy breakfast near the hotel and prepare for last-minute shopping and wandering in favorite neighborhoods.
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9:30am

Shopping — Ikebukuro or Shinjuku

Final souvenirs and department store browsing: Sunshine City (Ikebukuro) or Takashimaya/department stores in Shinjuku open around 10:00–20:00.
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12:30pm

Lunch — Specialty Curry or Ramen

Try a specialty Tokyo curry or standout ramen shop for a comforting last full meal in Japan.
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3:00pm

Optional — teamLab Planets or Museum Visit

If you missed digital art or a museum earlier, use this afternoon for a booked experience (hours often 10:00–19:00; check availability and book ahead).
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7:00pm

Farewell Dinner — High-quality Sushi or Izakaya

Reserve a memorable final dinner in Tokyo — a mid/high-range sushi or kaiseki spot for a proper send-off (reservations recommended).
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Day 17: Departure Day

Tokyo, Japan on September 23, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast & Pack

Have a final quick breakfast at the hotel or nearby café and finish packing; airports recommend arriving 2–3 hours before international flights.
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7:30am

Hotel Checkout & Airport Transfer

Take reserved airport shuttle, Narita/Haneda express or taxi to the airport — factor traffic/time for your departure terminal.
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10:00am

Arrive at Airport — Final Duty-Free

Complete check-in, customs, and any last duty-free shopping before boarding; departure procedures vary by airline so allow sufficient time.
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