Start with fresh sushi or grilled fish at the Tsukiji Outer Market where many stalls open early; great for sampling many small dishes and fresh seafood. Check individual stalls as opening times vary (some from 05:00–14:00).
Historic Buddhist temple with the Nakamise shopping street leading up to the gate — visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy traditional snacks and souvenirs. Temple grounds are open daily (typically from dawn until dusk).
Walk along the Sumida riverbank and visit Tokyo Skytree for panoramic city views; Skytree observation decks usually open ~09:00–21:00 (last entry times vary).
Classic tempura served in a historic Asakusa shop — popular, so expect a short queue; they typically open around 11:00–20:00. Delicious and very local.
Experience the famed crossing and visit nearby shops; best seen from the crossing or the Starbucks vantage point. Area is open 24/7 but stores vary by hours.
A lively izakaya-style restaurant known for its ambiance and varied menu — open evenings (typically 17:00–23:00); great for yakitori, tempura and grilled fish.
For a drink and atmosphere, explore tiny bars in Shinjuku’s Golden Gai or the post-war yakitori alleys of Omoide Yokocho; many bars open from early evening and stay open late.
Trendy youth fashion on Takeshita Street and upscale designer stores along Omotesando; ideal for street food and people-watching. Shops typically open from 10:00.
Experience immersive digital art at teamLab Planets (check timed-entry tickets; typically open ~10:00–19:00) or contemporary exhibitions and a rooftop view at Mori Art Museum (Roppongi Hills, usually 10:00–22:00).
Relax in manicured lawns at Shinjuku Gyoen (check times — typically 9:00–16:30, closed Mondays) or head to the free observation decks at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (10:00–23:00) for sunset city views.
Enjoy casual yakitori at Torikizoku (chain, good value, open late) or pick a tiny yakitori stall in Omoide Yokocho for nostalgic atmosphere; many places open from 17:00 and run late into the night.
Grab breakfast at a station café or konbini before boarding the Romancecar or Odakyu express to Hakone-Yumoto; trains depart from Shinjuku early (Romancecar requires reservation).
Sculpture park with indoor galleries and hot-spring foot baths — typically open 9:00–17:00; it’s a highlight for art and light hiking. Book about 1.5–2 hours here.
Visit the lakeside torii at Hakone Shrine, then take a sightseeing pirate-ship cruise on Lake Ashi (cruises typically run ~09:00–17:00). Great views of Mount Fuji on clear days.
Take the ropeway for volcanic valley views; Owakudani can close due to volcanic activity — check current status before leaving (ropeway typically 09:00–17:00).
Travel from Hakone-Yumoto to Odawara by local train, then board the Tokaido Shinkansen (Nozomi or Hikari) to Kyoto (~2h15); book seats in advance for evening trains.
Arrive in Kyoto and enjoy a relaxed dinner near the station (many izakayas and ramen shops open until late); good first-night options include local ramen or a casual kaiseki takeaway.
Explore the thousands of torii gates with fewer people at dawn; the shrine grounds are open 24 hours, making early start ideal for photos and a peaceful walk.
Historic temple with wooden terrace and sweeping city views — temples generally open ~06:00–18:00 (verify seasonal times); walk down Ninenzaka/Sannenzaka for traditional shops.
Walk the famous bamboo grove and visit Tenryu-ji temple and gardens; Tenryu-ji usually open 08:30–17:30. Arashiyama area is pleasant for riverside views and a boat ride if time allows.
Enjoy Kyoto-style dishes in atmospheric Gion; Gion Tanto is a popular casual option, while small kaiseki restaurants require reservations. Typical dinner hours 17:30–22:00.
Sacred shrine with thousands of lanterns set in a tranquil forest — the shrine grounds are open daily though interior areas have set hours (check on-site).
Taste local specialties such as pressed sushi wrapped in persimmon leaf (kakinoha-zushi) or a bowl of hearty udon at a neighbourhood restaurant (many open 11:00–15:00).
Shop along Shinsaibashi and then head to Dotonbori for neon-lit canal views and famous street food — takoyaki and okonomiyaki stalls are lively and typically open mid-day through late evening.
Finish with Osaka’s signature comfort foods: okonomiyaki at Mizuno (often open 11:00–21:30) or takoyaki from a popular vendor like Wanaka for a casual, delicious finale.