Historic temple with Nakamise shopping street — great for photos, cheap snacks and souvenirs; open all day but individual shops ~9:00am–6:00pm so check shop hours.
Observation deck offers city views; good if you want orientation and photos — observation hours typically 8:00am–10:00pm (check official site for exact times and ticket slots).
Try fresh sushi bowls or grilled seafood at stalls in Tsukiji Outer Market — many stalls open from early morning to early afternoon (most close by 2:00pm).
Take JR/Tobu from Tokyo to Nikko (approx 2 hours); buy a Tobu Nikko Pass for savings if planning multiple sights. Trains run frequently but check timetables.
Scenic nature — Kegon Falls viewpoint and lake are ~40–60 minutes from town by bus. Check bus timetables; seasonal hours vary for elevators/viewpoints.
Take Odakyu from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto (~1.5–2 hours). For budget travelers, buy the Hakone Free Pass (covers local transport and gives savings on attractions).
Scenic boat across Lake Ashi with views of Mt. Fuji (clear days); Hakone Shrine torii on the shore is photogenic — check cruise hours, typically ~9:00am–5:00pm.
Take Shinkansen (approx 2h20m) — if you bought a JR Pass, activate it now for the coming westbound travel; cheaper option: overnight or daytime highway bus (Willer Express) if booked ahead.
Stroll old streets and spot traditional teahouses; free to wander — if you want a budget dinner, Pontocho alley has inexpensive yakitori and izakaya options.
Home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) and free-roaming deer in the park; Todaiji museum/Daibutsu hall has an entrance fee — temples usually open early (6:00–9:00 onwards).
If staying on Miyajima: take the JR ferry (about 10 minutes) for scenic island access; ferries run frequently but check last departures for island stays.
Hike or take the ropeway for panoramic island views; ropeway runs roughly 9:00am–5:00pm (check operating times), hike takes 1–2 hours depending on pace.
Shinkansen (~4 hours) if you want a fast return; for lower cost, consider an overnight bus booked in advance. Check train/bus schedules against your flight time.
Allow extra time for airport transfer (Narita/Haneda) — Narita takes 60–90 minutes by Narita Express or bus; Haneda is quicker by train or monorail. Check your flight check-in deadlines.