Start with fresh sushi and seafood stalls at Tsukiji Outer Market for a lively breakfast; great way to taste local flavors and street food. (Market typically 5:30am–14:00, many stalls open earlier.)
Historic Tokyo landmark with Nakamise shopping street — see the temple, traditional crafts and street snacks in a classic setting. (Temple grounds open roughly 6:00am–5:00pm.)
A peaceful shrine oasis beside fashionable Harajuku — pair the shrine visit with Takeshita Street for youth fashion and crepes. (Meiji Shrine usually 5:00am–6:00pm.)
Large landscaped garden ideal for an afternoon stroll; note closed days (usually Monday) and shorter autumn hours. (Typical hours 9:00am–4:30pm; check before you go.)
Grab classic tonkotsu ramen at Ichiran (many locations open late) or explore Shinjuku's izakaya alleys (Omoide Yokocho/Golden Gai) for small plates and lively atmosphere.
Modern sculptures set in a landscaped outdoor park with indoor Picasso gallery — outstanding views and interactive exhibits. (Usually open 9:00am–5:00pm.)
Pleasant sightseeing cruise on Lake Ashi with views of Mount Fuji (weather permitting) and a walk to historic Hakone Shrine by the water. (Boat services roughly 9:00am–5:00pm.)
Ropeway to volcanic valley where you can try the famous black eggs; Owakudani sometimes closes for volcanic emissions — confirm before visiting. (Typical ropeway 9:00am–4:00pm but may vary.)
Relax in a ryokan with kaiseki dinner and hot-spring baths for a classic Hakone experience; many ryokans include evening meal with the room rate (reservations recommended).
Scenic wooden temple with sweeping views of Kyoto and nearby preserved streets filled with shops selling sweets and souvenirs. (Temple usually 6:00am–6:00pm.)
Enjoy Kyoto cuisine: reserve a kaiseki meal in Gion if you want a refined dining experience, or wander Pontocho alley for lively izakayas and river views.
Walk through lantern-lined approaches to Kasuga Taisha and explore the preserved merchant quarter of Naramachi for shops and atmosphere. (Kasuga Taisha usually 6:30am–5:00pm.)
Back in Kyoto, visit the famous Arashiyama bamboo grove (open 24 hours) and nearby Tenryu-ji temple for garden views and temple architecture. (Tenryu-ji commonly 8:30am–5:30pm.)
Historic castle with a museum and panoramic views from the top floor; surrounding park is beautiful, especially in autumn. (Castle tourism hours generally 9:00am–5:00pm.)
Try Osaka specialties: savory okonomiyaki at Mizuno or kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) at Daruma for an unforgettable final meal. (Mizuno typical hours ~11:00am–10:00pm.)