Have a sushi or grilled fish breakfast at one of the outer-market stalls; Tsukiji stalls generally open from ~7:00–14:00 and it's the freshest way to start Tokyo. A lively local experience and easy way to fuel up for a big day.
Historic Asakusa temple with the colorful Nakamise shopping street leading up to it; great for photos, souvenirs and experiencing old Tokyo. Temple area is typically open early (Senso-ji precincts open 6:00–5:00pm), shops vary but often 9:00–18:00.
Classic tempura bowl in Asakusa near Senso-ji; popular with visitors so expect a short line. Usual open hours around 11:00–20:00 but check seasonal hours on holidays (Dec 31 often shorter).
Panoramic views over Tokyo from one of the city's tallest towers; open typically 8:00–22:00 — book tickets in advance for the busy holiday period. Great overview to orient yourself to the city.
Experience the famous scramble crossing and explore nearby shopping districts such as Center Gai and Shibuya Scramble Square; shops are usually open 10:00–21:00 but eateries run later. Iconic evening neon atmosphere.
A lively izakaya-style restaurant (famous interior) serving a wide menu — open typically 11:30–23:30; good for a hearty first-night dinner and photo ops. Reserve if possible for the holiday week.
Take the Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto (approx 85–100min) or train + local transfer; advance-reserved seats recommended during holiday season. Check Romacecar/ODAKYU times and reserve seats.
Outdoor sculpture park with museum galleries and hot-spring footbaths; open typically 9:00–17:00. A relaxing and scenic start to the Hakone experience.
Scenic pirate-ship cruise on Lake Ashi (typical sailings 9:00–16:00) and ropeway to Owakudani for views of Mt. Fuji (ropeway 9:00–17:00). Note: Owakudani may have volcanic-related closures — check status same day.
Head back to Tokyo in the late afternoon to avoid nighttime delays; trains run frequently but book seats if using Romancecar. Expect travel time ~2h depending on route.
Classic solo-booth tonkotsu ramen; many branches operate late and some 24h — good for a simple, satisfying dinner after a full day. Quick service if you want to rest early.
Have a quick hotel breakfast or buy an ekiben at Tokyo station for the Shinkansen — the ekiben is a tasty way to eat on the train. Stations open early; ekiben shops typically open from the first trains.
Board the bullet train to Kyoto (approx 2h15m by Nozomi, Hikari slightly longer). Reserve seats in advance — holiday windows are busy. Comfortable, fast transfer to Kansai region.
Arrive in Kyoto and check into your accommodation or use a luggage service if rooms aren't ready. Central hotels typically allow luggage drop from early afternoon.
Sample Kyoto street foods (yakitori, tofu, pickles, sweets) along Nishiki Market; most stalls open ~9:00–18:00. Great way to try many local specialties in one stop.
Famous thousand-red-torii mountain shrine; open 24 hours so you can explore with fewer crowds in the late afternoon or early evening. Iconic walking route and photo opportunities.
Large hillside temple with sweeping city views; typical hours 6:00–6:00pm (seasonal variations and illumination events may extend hours in winter), so check for special holiday illuminations. Romantic spot at dusk.
Dine in one of the atmospheric restaurants in Gion or Pontocho Alley; many establishments open 17:00–23:00, some require reservations especially around holidays. Option for kaiseki or informal izakaya.
Walk through the iconic bamboo grove before the rush; the grove is accessible 24 hours but mornings are best for photos and quieter paths. Combine with nearby riverside strolls.
Visit the contemplative Zen rock garden near Kinkaku-ji; open typically 8:30–17:00. Great contrast to the Golden Pavilion and ideal for a quieter afternoon.
Experience a multi-course kaiseki dinner for a memorable Kyoto culinary evening; many upscale places require reservations and have fixed times during holidays. Expect a refined, seasonal meal.
Light hotel breakfast before the easy morning transfer to Nara; trains start early and you can reach Nara quickly. Keep luggage arrangements in mind if moving cities later.
See the giant Daibutsu (Great Buddha) inside Todai-ji and stroll among the friendly deer in Nara Park; Todai-ji typically open 7:30–17:30. Iconic and peaceful morning stop.
Walk the lantern-lined paths to this historic shrine; shrine grounds typically open 9:00–4:30/5:00pm depending on season. Beautiful woodland setting and cultural atmosphere.
Train from Nara to Osaka (approx 45–60min) and check into your Osaka accommodation. Osaka is close-by and ideal for an evening of food and lively streets.
Stroll the grounds and optionally enter the museum inside Osaka Castle (open typically 9:00–5:00pm but verify holiday hours). Great photo spot and historical context for the city.
Explore neon-lit Dotonbori with takoyaki, okonomiyaki and kushikatsu stalls open late (many vendors open until 22:00–23:00). A must for Osaka's vibrant food scene.
Try a signature Osaka dish like takoyaki or a crab specialty — restaurants in Dotonbori usually operate 11:00–22:00. Fun and casual local dining experience.
Sample fresh seafood, grilled skewers and street snacks at Kuromon Ichiba; many stalls begin trading ~8:00–9:00. Great culinary exploration to start the day.
One of the world's largest aquariums featuring a central Pacific tank and varied marine life; winter hours often 10:00–20:00 but check specific seasonal holiday hours. Family-friendly and impressive displays.
Go to the rooftop observatory for city views (open roughly 10:00–22:30); great for late-afternoon light and sunset if timing allows. Modern architectural highlight of Osaka.
Explore boutique shops, department stores and arcades in Shinsaibashi and Namba; most retail stores open ~10:00–20:00. Good time for souvenirs and last-minute purchases.
Enjoy Osaka's kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) in the retro Shinsekai area; popular restaurants operate 11:00–22:00, so arrive early enough on a busy holiday weekend. Casual and quintessential Osaka dining.
Interactive museum showing historical Osaka streets and homes; open typically 10:00–17:00 but double-check year-end hours since many museums change schedules around Dec 31–Jan 1. A charming glimpse into old urban life.
Try Osaka-style savory pancake (okonomiyaki) in one of Dotonbori’s famous restaurants; usually open 11:00–22:00 but confirm holiday hours. Filling and local favorite for a last-day meal.
Use the afternoon for any remaining shopping, souvenir purchases, or to organize luggage — many department stores close earlier on Dec 31, so prioritize shops with extended hours. Check exact closing times.
Choose a restaurant with special NYE service or a rooftop bar for views; many places require reservations and offer fixed-price menus on Dec 31. Book ahead and confirm last train/transport options.
Join locals for the midnight New Year's shrine visit (hatsumode) — shrines remain open through the night and become very crowded; trains run special schedules, so plan your return accordingly. This is a memorable cultural finale to your trip.
After the shrine visit, return to your hotel or proceed to your onward travel. Note: public transport hours vary on New Year's Eve — check late-night trains or plan a taxi for the ride back.