Arrive at Haneda or Narita; complete immigration and baggage. Allow 1.5–2 hours for formalities and airport transfer to central Tokyo (train or airport limousine bus).
Historic Sensō-ji temple and Nakamise shopping street for a first taste of traditional Tokyo; great for photos and souvenirs. The temple area is open 24/7 but shops are typically 9:00am–6:00pm.
Dine at an izakaya for a variety of small plates (yakitori, sashimi, tempura). Most izakayas open 5:00pm–midnight, lively and excellent for first-night dining.
Hakone Open-Air Museum (9:00am–5:00pm) offers sculptures and hot-spring footbaths; Hakone Shrine on Lake Ashi is a serene visit—both highlight the volcanic lake area.
Take the pirate-ship cruise on Lake Ashi (operating ~9:00am–4:30pm) and ride the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani for views; note Owakudani may close partially during volcanic alerts—check live status before travel.
Final Kyoto breakfast, check out and prepare luggage for Shinkansen back to Tokyo. Leave larger luggage at station coin lockers or use delivery service if needed.
Check-out and take pre-booked airport shuttle, train or taxi to Haneda/Narita. For an early-morning international flight, leave hotel 2.5–3 hours before departure.
Complete airline check-in, baggage drop and immigration. International counters typically open early for scheduled flights — arrive well ahead of boarding time.