Japan City Itinerary: Tokyo, Shibu Onsen, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Kyoto, Osaka and Narita

Afternoon

After arriving and settling in, make Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden your gentle first outing. It is an easy walk or short taxi ride from most Shinjuku hotels; allow about 1½ hours for the broad lawns, Japanese garden and autumn colour beginning to appear in late October. The garden is usually open from 9:00–17:00, with last entry around 16:30, and admission is about ¥500. Keep an eye on the time, as the gates close earlier than many visitors expect.

From the garden, walk roughly 20 minutes north-west—or take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line from Shinjuku-Gyoemmae to Nishi-Shinjuku—to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Head to the observation decks for expansive, completely free views over Tokyo; the north and south observatories generally operate until around 22:00, though hours can vary and last entry is usually 30 minutes before closing. Sunset is a good moment to arrive, but allow a little time for security and lifts. The nearby Shinjuku Central Park is a pleasant shortcut if you prefer to walk rather than use the train.

Evening

Walk back towards the station through Omoide Yokocho, the narrow lantern-lit alley beside the west side of Shinjuku Station. This is best treated as an atmospheric introduction rather than a long meal: duck under the low signs, look for a counter with a steady local crowd, and expect compact seating and sometimes a small table charge. For dinner, settle into one of the 思い出横丁の焼き鳥店—the small yakitori restaurants in the alley—for skewers, grilled vegetables and a beer or highball, usually around ¥2,000–4,000 per person. Ordering a few skewers at a time works better than trying to plan a full meal, and cash is still useful at some of the tiny counters.

Finish with an unhurried walk through Kabukicho, following the bright signs around Cine Tower and the main entertainment streets. Stay on the busy, well-lit routes, ignore touts offering bars or clubs, and remember that the area is liveliest after dinner. If you are tired from the journey, simply take in the neon atmosphere and return to your hotel rather than forcing a late night—the neighbourhood will still be here for your later Shinjuku days.

Morning in the Forest

Start at Meiji Jingu around 8:00–8:30, before Harajuku becomes busy. From Shinjuku, take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station—about five minutes—then walk straight to the shrine’s broad, wooded approach. Allow roughly 1½ hours for the gravel paths, sake-barrel wall and main shrine buildings; entry is free, and the grounds open from sunrise until sunset. Keep voices low near the inner shrine, and check the forecast before setting out, as the forest paths can be muddy after rain.

Harajuku and Lunch

Walk from Meiji Jingu to Takeshita Street, where the atmosphere changes completely: expect crowds, colourful fashion shops and snack queues, especially from late morning. Spend about an hour wandering, but avoid filling up on oversized sweets before lunch. Continue to Kiddy Land Harajuku on Omotesando for character goods and Japanese toys; an hour is plenty, and the shop generally opens around 11:00. For lunch, head to Afuri Harajuku, a short walk away, for its light yuzu-shio ramen—usually around ¥1,500–2,500 per person. It is popular, but turnover is fairly quick; allow extra time if there is a queue.

Afternoon and Sunset in Shibuya

After lunch, walk down Omotesando toward Shibuya, taking around 20–25 minutes, or use the Tokyo Metro from Meiji-jingumae to Shibuya if your feet need a break. Pause at Shibuya Scramble Crossing for about 30 minutes: the best experience is to cross once, then watch the waves of pedestrians from the surrounding station viewpoints. Finish at Shibuya Sky, reached via Shibuya Scramble Square. Book a timed sunset entry online in advance—tickets are generally around ¥2,000–2,500—and arrive 20–30 minutes early for security and the lift. The open-air rooftop can be windy, and hats or loose items may be restricted; after sunset, take the JR Yamanote Line back to Shinjuku, roughly seven minutes.

Morning

Begin at Nezu Museum, arriving close to its 10:00 opening so you can enjoy the galleries before the Aoyama crowds build. The museum’s collection focuses on Japanese and East Asian art, but the real pleasure is the contrast between the quiet exhibition rooms and the expansive traditional garden outside. Allow around two hours; admission is typically about ¥1,500–¥2,000, and the museum is generally closed on Mondays, so today’s Sunday visit is well timed. From Shinjuku, take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Aoyama-itchome and walk roughly 10 minutes, or use a taxi if you prefer a straightforward start.

Walk from the museum along Omotesando, following the tree-lined avenue towards Harajuku. Give yourself about an hour to enjoy the polished architecture and flagship shops rather than treating it as a shopping mission. Look for the striking buildings along the main avenue, then dip into the side streets around Jingumae for smaller design stores and cafés. This is a good place for a light lunch or coffee, though prices on the avenue are high; the back streets usually offer better value.

Afternoon and Evening

Continue into Cat Street, the pedestrian-friendly route linking Harajuku and Shibuya. It takes about an hour to browse properly, with independent boutiques, vintage clothing, sneaker shops and relaxed cafés appearing between the larger retail areas. You can wander south at an easy pace and arrive in Shibuya without needing another train. For dinner, head to Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka, where sushi is ordered from a touchscreen and delivered rapidly to your seat. Expect roughly ¥1,500–¥3,000 per person; queues are common at peak dinner time, so arriving around 17:30–18:00 is much easier than waiting until 19:30.

Finish at Nonbei Yokocho, the tiny lantern-lit drinking alley beside Shibuya Station. The cramped bars are atmospheric rather than spacious, and many seat only a handful of guests. Allow about an hour for one or two drinks, checking prices before ordering because some venues charge a small table or cover fee. It is close to Shibuya Station, making the return to Shinjuku simple: take the JR Yamanote Line or Saikyo Line, usually around 5–7 minutes.

Morning

Start at Tokyo Toy Museum in Yotsuya when it opens, usually at 10:00 (check the official schedule, as it is commonly closed on Thursdays). Housed in a converted former school, it is much more hands-on than a conventional museum: expect wooden toys, traditional Japanese games and plenty of time for relaxed play. Allow around two hours; admission is generally about ¥1,200–1,500. From Shinjuku, take the Marunouchi Line to Yotsuya-Sanchome, then walk roughly five minutes.

Walk or take the Marunouchi Line back towards Shinjuku for the Shinjuku Historical Museum, near Akebonobashi. Give yourself about an hour to explore the exhibits on Edo-period farming villages, postwar life and the transformation of Shinjuku into the neon-heavy district you see today. It is a useful counterpoint to the modern city outside, and admission is inexpensive—usually around ¥300. For lunch, head to Sushi Oedo in Shinjuku; this is a casual, good-value stop rather than a formal sushi experience, with sets generally costing ¥2,000–4,000 per person. Go around 11:30–12:00 to avoid the busiest lunchtime queue.

Afternoon and Evening

After lunch, make your way west to Shinjuku Central Park, either on foot in about 20 minutes or by the Oedo Line to Tochomae. Spend an hour walking the paths beneath the skyscrapers, pausing around the pond and open lawns; it is particularly pleasant in the late afternoon when the towers cast longer shadows. The park is free and open throughout the day, though facilities and nearby cafés wind down earlier. In the evening, return east through Shinjuku toward Golden Gai. Arrive around 18:00–19:00, before the tiny bars fill, and wander slowly through the narrow lanes rather than trying to cover every alley. Most bars seat fewer than ten people, often charge a cover of roughly ¥500–1,500, and may have a one-drink minimum; check the menu and cover charge outside before entering. Keep the visit to one or two bars and bring cash, as many small venues do not accept cards.

Morning

Take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku to Mitaka—roughly 15–20 minutes on a rapid train—and walk or use the museum’s shuttle bus to the Ghibli Museum. Your timed ticket is essential; tickets are not sold at the museum, and entry is strictly allocated, so aim to arrive 10–15 minutes before your slot. Allow around 2½ hours for the whimsical galleries, animation displays and short film screening. Photography is restricted inside, which is part of the charm: take your time with the hand-drawn artwork rather than rushing through it.

Midday and Afternoon

From the museum, walk about 15 minutes to Inokashira Park, a pleasant route through residential Mitaka and Kichijoji. Spend an hour following the lakeside paths and wooded edges; late October usually brings the first hints of autumn colour, and the park is particularly relaxed on a weekday. Continue to Harmonica Yokocho, just north of Kichijoji Station, for a wander through its narrow lanes of tiny bars, standing eateries and independent shops. It is more atmospheric in the late afternoon than at lunchtime, when many venues are still closed. From Mitaka or Kichijoji, an IC card covers the short JR journey; walking between the park and the station area is easiest.

Evening

Have dinner at Tsukada Nojo Kichijoji, reserving ahead if possible, especially if you want a counter or table during the busy dinner period. Expect roughly ¥4,000–6,000 per person for its charcoal-grilled regional chicken dishes and casual izakaya-style menu; confirm the latest location and opening hours when booking, as restaurant hours can change. Finish with an easy hour along Kichijoji Sun Road, the covered shopping arcade stretching north from the station. Browse local clothing, snacks and household stores before taking a direct JR Chuo Line train back to Shinjuku—about 15 minutes.

Morning

Make teamLab Borderless at Azabudai Hills your first stop, aiming for your booked entry time around opening. From Shinjuku, take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Kasumigaseki, then change to the Hibiya Line for Kamiyacho—roughly 25–30 minutes total, followed by a short walk. Allow about two hours, and wear comfortable shoes: the galleries are dark, reflective and sometimes involve uneven floors or low lighting. Tickets are timed and generally cost around ¥4,000–5,000, so check the exact session and any closure notices before leaving. Afterward, walk through Azabudai Hills toward Tokyo Tower, a pleasant 15-minute route with cafés and modern architecture along the way.

Midday and Afternoon

Spend around 1½ hours at Tokyo Tower, choosing the Main Deck for the classic view or adding the Top Deck if visibility is excellent; admission is usually approximately ¥1,200 for the Main Deck and more for the combined ticket. Take the lift down toward Akabanebashi, then walk about 10 minutes to Zojoji Temple. The temple grounds are free and take roughly an hour, with the contrast between the vermilion gate, dark wooden halls and tower rising behind it making this one of Tokyo’s best photo settings. Continue by taxi or walk 25–30 minutes toward Hamarikyu Gardens in Shiodome. The garden is open until 17:00, with final admission at 16:30, so arrive by about 15:30; entry is around ¥300. Leave time for the tidal ponds, old teahouse and quiet paths beside the surrounding office towers. If you want a break, Nakajima-no-Ochaya serves matcha and traditional sweets, though service can be slow when busy.

Evening

From Hamarikyu Gardens, exit toward Shiodome and walk or take the Toei Oedo Line one stop to Tsukijishijo for Tsukiji Outer Market—about 10–15 minutes depending on the gate you use. By dinner, many specialist stalls will have closed, so treat the market as a compact seafood neighbourhood rather than a full morning market. Look for a sit-down sushi, kaisendon or grilled seafood restaurant along Tsukiji Higashi and the lanes around Namiyoke-dori; budget roughly ¥3,000–5,000 per person. It is worth checking last orders before queuing, and cash is still useful at smaller counters. Tsukiji is about 20 minutes from Shinjuku by the Oedo Line, making it easy to return after dinner without retracing the whole day.

Morning Arrival

Leave Shinjuku around 7:00–8:00 to reach Shibu Onsen in time for ryokan check-in. This is a long travel morning, so keep breakfast simple and carry snacks and water; confirm your reserved train seats and any luggage-transfer arrangement before leaving Tokyo. On arrival, the bus stop is close to the hot-spring town, but the lanes are narrow and steep in places—use the ryokan’s directions or arrange a pickup if you have a large suitcase.

Afternoon in the Onsen Town

After dropping your bags, spend about 1½ hours wandering Shibu Onsen, following the stone-paved lanes past wooden inns, small souvenir shops and steaming vents. This is best enjoyed slowly rather than as a checklist: look for the little bridges over the Yokoyakushi River and stop for a warming drink or soft-serve along the main street. Late afternoon is the ideal time for the Shibu Onsen Public Bathhouses. Your ryokan will provide the traditional key, and the nine baths are generally used by guests staying in town; bring a small towel, wash thoroughly before entering, and expect the water to be genuinely hot. Allow roughly two hours, taking breaks between baths rather than trying to rush the circuit.

Evening

As dusk settles, walk to Kanaguya, the ornate wooden ryokan that inspired the bathhouse in Spirited Away. You cannot generally enter unless staying there, but its illuminated exterior is particularly atmospheric from the street, and it is only a short stroll from the public bathhouses. Return to your ryokan for a kaiseki dinner, usually served around 18:00–19:00 and costing approximately ¥8,000–15,000 per person if it is not included in your stay. Expect several carefully presented courses featuring seasonal Nagano produce; tell the ryokan in advance about allergies or dietary restrictions, as substitutions can be difficult at short notice.

Morning

Start early for Jigokudani Monkey Park, when the mountain path is quieter and the macaques are most likely to be soaking in the hot spring. From Shibu Onsen, take the local bus toward Kanbayashi Onsen—about 10–15 minutes—then walk approximately 30 minutes through the forest to the park entrance. Allow around 2½ hours including the walk each way; the trail can be damp and slippery in late October, so proper shoes and a warm layer are worthwhile. Admission is usually around ¥800, and the monkeys are wild, so keep food and bags closed and never try to touch them. Return to Shibu Onsen by bus or on foot if you feel like a longer downhill walk.

Afternoon

After lunch at your ryokan or a small noodle shop in Shibu Onsen, spend a relaxed half-hour at Oyu, one of the town’s nine public baths. The communal baths are traditionally reserved for local residents and overnight guests, so carry the key or bathing pass supplied by your ryokan; the water is very hot, and a quick soak is more comfortable than trying to stay in for too long. Follow it with the Shibu Onsen Foot Bath, an easy place to cool down and watch the narrow street life pass by. Towels are useful, although some ryokans lend small ones for the onsen circuit. Leave time simply to wander the lantern-lit lanes and stone bridges rather than trying to visit every bath.

Late Afternoon and Evening

Walk or take the short train from Shibu Onsen toward the Yudanaka Station area, allowing roughly an hour for browsing local shops and picking up regional snacks such as chestnut sweets, apple products and onsen-themed souvenirs. The area becomes quieter toward early evening, so aim to arrive before around 5:30–6:00 pm for the best selection. Finish at a local soba restaurant near Yudanaka Station—expect handmade Nagano soba, vegetable tempura and mountain produce for about ¥1,500–3,000 per person. Many small restaurants close once they sell out, so an early dinner around 5:30–6:30 pm is the safest plan; check the return train or bus timetable afterward, as services between Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen are limited later at night.

Morning and Early Afternoon

After the long transfer from Shibu Onsen, keep the first part of your Hiroshima day deliberately light. With an early departure and roughly seven to eight hours on trains, you will probably reach your hotel around mid-afternoon; leave large luggage there or use a station locker, then take the Hiroshima Electric Railway tram toward Chūden-mae. Have a quick meal near the station or in the Hondōri area before heading to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. Allow about two hours, and give yourself time for the exhibits rather than trying to rush through them—the museum is emotionally demanding and best approached when you are not watching the clock. Admission is inexpensive, generally around ¥200, but check the current closing time and allow extra time before the final entry.

Late Afternoon and Evening

Walk slowly through Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park after leaving the museum, following the riverfront past the Cenotaph for the A-Bomb Victims and the Children’s Peace Monument. This is a good moment to pause rather than add more sightseeing; in late October the light fades relatively early, and the park becomes especially quiet around dusk. For dinner, join the likely queue at Okonomiyaki Nagata-ya, a short walk from the park near Hondōri. Expect about ¥1,500–3,000 per person and roughly 45–60 minutes; the restaurant serves the layered Hiroshima style with cabbage, noodles and toppings cooked on the teppan, so counter seats are part of the experience. Finish at the Atomic Bomb Dome, only a few minutes away beside the Motoyasu River, where the illuminated ruin is particularly striking after dark. If you are tired, make this a brief, reflective stop before returning by tram or walking back through central Hiroshima.

Morning

Take an early JR train from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi—about 25 minutes—then follow the signs to the Miyajima Ferry Terminal. The ferry crossing takes around 10 minutes; both JR and Matsudai ferries accept an IC card, and the return fare is roughly ¥360. Aim to reach Itsukushima Shrine shortly after opening, before the island’s tour groups arrive. Allow about 1½ hours to walk through the vermilion halls and see the famous torii from the best angles. Check the tide table beforehand: high tide gives the classic floating-gate view, while low tide lets you walk out across the tidal flats. Keep an eye on your belongings around the deer, which are charming but opportunistic.

Late Morning and Afternoon

From the shrine, wander along Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street, allowing about an hour for grilled oysters, freshly made momiji manju and small craft shops. For lunch, try one of the street’s oyster counters rather than settling immediately at the first busy restaurant; queues are usually longest around noon. Continue uphill to Daisho-in, reached in roughly 15 minutes on foot. This is one of Miyajima’s most atmospheric temples, with lantern-lined paths, hundreds of small Buddhist figures and excellent views back over the town. Wear comfortable shoes—the approach is uphill, though it is much more rewarding than simply staying on the main shopping street.

Late Afternoon and Dinner

From Daisho-in, walk to the Mount Misen Ropeway base station; allow around 20–25 minutes, or use the free island shuttle bus when operating. The ropeway journey takes about 20 minutes with a transfer at Shishiiwa Station, and you should allow roughly two hours overall for the ride, viewpoints and return. The upper station’s panorama across the Seto Inland Sea is particularly beautiful in the late afternoon, but check the final descending cabin carefully—hours vary seasonally, and services can stop in strong wind. Back in town, have dinner at Kakiya, known for oysters prepared several ways; budget approximately ¥3,000–5,000 per person. Finish with the ferry back to Miyajimaguchi and the JR train to Hiroshima, allowing extra time if you are travelling during the evening rush.

Morning

Start at Shukkeien Garden when it opens, usually 9:00, while the paths and ponds are still quiet. From Hiroshima Station, take the Hiroshima Electric Railway tram to Shukkeien-iriguchi—about 15 minutes—then walk a few minutes to the entrance. Allow around 1½ hours to follow the winding paths around the central pond, tea houses and miniature landscapes; early November is a lovely time for the first autumn colour. Admission is about ¥260, and comfortable shoes are useful on the gravel paths.

Walk or take a short tram ride toward Hiroshima Castle, roughly 15–20 minutes depending on your route. Spend about 1½ hours exploring the grounds and the reconstructed main keep, whose upper levels give broad views over central Hiroshima. The castle museum generally opens at 9:00 and admission is around ¥370; the surrounding grounds are free and worth wandering even if you keep the interior visit brief. For lunch, look for a simple set meal or noodles around Kamiyacho rather than stopping at the first tourist-facing restaurant.

Afternoon and Evening

Continue to the Hiroshima Museum of Art, an easy walk of roughly 10 minutes from Hiroshima Castle. Its compact collection makes it a good unhurried afternoon stop—allow about 1½ hours—and it is particularly pleasant when you want a quieter contrast to the city’s larger historical sites. It usually opens at 9:00 and closes around 17:00, with final admission about 30 minutes before closing; confirm the exhibition calendar because Mondays are commonly a closing day. Admission varies by exhibition, generally around ¥1,000–1,500.

In the late afternoon, walk south toward Fukuromachi Park, about 15–20 minutes, or take a short tram ride if your feet are tired. Give yourself 30 minutes here: it is a modest, reflective memorial space rather than a major sightseeing stop, and the surrounding Fukuromachi streets are good for a quiet pause before dinner. Finish at Mitchan Sohonten in Hatchobori, a Hiroshima institution for layered okonomiyaki cooked in front of you. Expect roughly ¥2,000–4,000 per person; arrive before the main dinner rush or be prepared to queue, and check the branch’s current hours as some locations close on different weekdays. The classic order is Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki with noodles, cabbage, pork and egg—filling enough that you will not need another stop afterward.

Morning in Hakata

Take a reserved Sanyō Shinkansen from Hiroshima Station to Hakata Station, ideally around 7:30–8:30, so you arrive with nearly the whole day ahead. The ride is about an hour; leave larger luggage at your Fukuoka accommodation or use the lockers at Hakata Station. From Hakata, it is a short walk or one subway stop to Kushida Shrine, the atmospheric home of Hakata Gion Yamakasa. Allow about an hour to see the ornate festival floats, vermilion gates and quiet shrine grounds; admission is free, though the small display area may have a modest fee.

Continue on foot through the old Hakata lanes to Hakata Machiya Furusatokan, usually open roughly 10:00–18:00, with last entry around 17:30; admission is generally about ¥200. This compact museum occupies restored merchant houses and offers a useful introduction to Hakata’s crafts, textiles and everyday life. It is a good place to slow down rather than rush through another major attraction.

Afternoon around Canal City

Walk approximately 10 minutes to Canal City Hakata, the colourful shopping and entertainment complex built around an artificial canal. Give yourself about two hours to browse the shops, bookshops and food floors, and check the schedule for the large fountain-and-screen shows in the central Sun Plaza area. The complex is useful for a relaxed lunch if you are hungry, but save room for ramen later; cafés and restaurants are plentiful, and the nearby Kawabata Shopping Arcade is worth a short detour for local sweets and small souvenirs.

Dinner and Evening

For dinner, head to Hakata Issou, a local favourite known for intensely aromatic tonkotsu broth and thin noodles. Expect roughly ¥1,000–2,000 per person, but go before the peak dinner rush—around 17:30–18:00 is much easier than 19:00, when queues are common. Afterward, walk or take the subway toward Nakasu for the evening’s most distinctive Fukuoka experience: the Nakasu Yatai food stalls. Arrive around 19:00–20:00, browse a few menus before sitting down, and order simply—yakitori, oden, gyoza or another small dish with a drink. Stalls are compact and usually cash-friendly; avoid occupying a seat for too long when there is a queue, and remember that many close once they sell out or around midnight.

Morning in Dazaifu

Take the Nishitetsu Tenjin-Omuta Line from Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station to Dazaifu Station, changing at Nishitetsu Futsukaichi; allow about 35–45 minutes each way and roughly ¥430 one way. Leave around 8:00 so you reach Dazaifu Tenmangu before the approach becomes crowded. From the station, the shrine is a straightforward five-minute walk along the lively Dazaifu approach. Allow about two hours to wander beneath the trees, see the distinctive shrine buildings and ponds, and take in the atmosphere of one of Kyushu’s most important Tenmangu shrines. Check the official schedule before setting out, as parts of the complex may be affected by ongoing restoration work and seasonal events.

Midday in Dazaifu

Walk through the shrine grounds toward the Kyushu National Museum, connected by a long, curving covered passage from Dazaifu Tenmangu. Plan around two hours here; the permanent exhibitions explain Japan’s relationship with the wider Asian continent particularly well, making this a much more rewarding stop than a quick museum visit. General admission is usually around ¥700, with special exhibitions costing extra. Museum hours are generally 9:30–17:00, with last admission around 16:30, and it is commonly closed on Mondays. Afterward, pause at an Umegae Mochi shop near Dazaifu Tenmangu for the local specialty: a freshly grilled, lightly sweetened rice cake filled with red bean paste. One or two cakes are plenty—expect roughly ¥150–¥200 each, or ¥500–1,000 for a small snack and drink.

Afternoon and Evening

Return toward the shrine approach and spend about 45 minutes at Komyozenji Temple, a quieter counterpoint to the crowds at Dazaifu Tenmangu. Its famed dry garden is best appreciated slowly and in silence; remove your shoes where requested and check the current opening hours, as temple access can be irregular. When you are ready to head back, walk to Dazaifu Station and take the Nishitetsu train to Tenjin. For dinner, explore the yatai at Tenjin, particularly the stands around Naka River and the streets near Nakasu-Kawabata. Arrive around 18:00–19:00 for a better chance of finding seats, and expect about ¥2,000–4,000 per person for several small dishes and drinks. Yatai seating is communal and compact, so order a few items, avoid lingering after you have finished, and carry cash—many stalls do not accept cards.

Morning: Momochihama’s coastline

Take the subway from Tenjin to Nishijin on the Kūkō Line, then walk or take a short taxi west toward Fukuoka Tower; allow about 25–35 minutes from central Fukuoka. Arrive near opening, generally 9:30, when the observation decks are quieter and the morning light gives you clear views across Hakata Bay. Allow around 1½ hours, including time for the 234-metre-high panoramic view. Admission is usually about ¥800–¥1,000, with occasional pricing changes, so check the official website before going. Afterwards, walk straight down to Momochi Seaside Park for an easy hour along the artificial beach and waterfront promenade. It is intentionally spacious rather than wild, with good views back towards the tower; bring a drink, as café options along the sand can be limited outside peak hours.

Midday: Fukuoka’s history

Continue on foot to the Fukuoka City Museum, only a few minutes inland from the beach. Plan roughly 1½ hours for the exhibits on Hakata’s maritime trade, local archaeology and the famous King of Na seal. The museum is typically open from 9:30 to 17:30, with last admission around 17:00, and costs approximately ¥200 for the permanent collection; it is commonly closed on Mondays, so confirm the Wednesday schedule and any special exhibitions. For lunch, keep it simple near Nishijin or Momochi—Hakata Uogashi Ichiba Kaishoku Yatai is a good-value seafood option if open, while a convenience-store picnic is perfectly practical before the next walk. From the museum, take a taxi or the subway from Nishijin Station toward Ōhorikōen Station, allowing roughly 15–25 minutes.

Afternoon and evening

Spend the afternoon circling Ohori Park, where the broad lake, bridges and willow-lined paths make a pleasant change from the denser parts of the city; a relaxed loop takes about 45 minutes, leaving time to sit by the water. Then enter the Fukuoka Art Museum on the park’s eastern side. Allow around 1½ hours for its mix of modern Japanese art, Asian works and traditional pieces; it is generally open 9:30–17:30, with later hours on some Fridays, and admission is usually around ¥200–¥500 depending on the exhibitions. Walk or take a short taxi to Motsunabe Yamanaka Akasaka for dinner—reserve ahead if possible, as the polished dining room is popular. Expect about ¥4,000–6,000 per person for Fukuoka-style motsunabe, a rich beef- or pork-offal hot pot with garlic, cabbage and chives; order rice or champon noodles at the end to finish the broth.

Afternoon: Kyoto’s Market Quarter

After arriving at Kyoto Station, leave your larger bags in station lockers or at your accommodation, then make your way to Nishiki Market. The market is best treated as a grazing walk rather than a formal lunch stop: allow about 1½ hours to browse stalls selling pickled vegetables, yuba, dashi ingredients, grilled seafood and sweets. Most stalls are open roughly 10:00–18:00, although individual vendors vary; keep portions small, as the narrow covered arcade becomes crowded and eating while walking is generally discouraged. From Kyoto Station, the Karasuma Subway Line to Shijō Station, followed by a 10-minute walk east, is the simplest route.

At the market’s eastern end, spend around 30 minutes at Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine, a compact, atmospheric shrine tucked among the shops. Its lanterns and bright vermilion details make a pleasant contrast with the busy arcade, and it is free to enter. Once you have finished browsing, walk south through the downtown lanes toward Kiyamachi Street—about 15 minutes—where the atmosphere changes noticeably as cafés, bars and restaurants gather beside the narrow canal.

Evening: Kiyamachi and Dinner in Pontocho

Arrive at Kiyamachi Street around dusk, when the trees, wooden façades and restaurant lanterns begin to reflect in the water. Allow an hour to wander slowly rather than following a fixed route; the stretch between Shijō-dōri and Sanjo-dōri is particularly enjoyable, with small bridges and glimpses into old machiya buildings. Continue across toward Pontocho, Kyoto’s famously narrow dining alley, and choose a restaurant once you have had a look at the menus—many small establishments are cash-focused, reservation-only, or display English menus outside. Expect approximately ¥4,000–8,000 per person for a comfortable dinner, with kaiseki and riverside dining costing considerably more. After dinner, take a final unhurried walk along Pontocho; this is one of the best evenings to simply enjoy Kyoto’s atmosphere without trying to fit in another major sight.

Morning

Start early at Fushimi Inari Taisha, ideally arriving around 7:00–7:30 before the lower shrine precinct becomes crowded. From central Kyoto, take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station—the torii-lined entrance is directly outside—or the Keihan Line to Fushimi-Inari Station. The shrine grounds are free and open around the clock; allow about 2½ hours to walk beyond the famous first tunnel of gates and up toward Yotsutsuji viewpoint. You do not need to reach the summit to enjoy the atmosphere, and the crowds thin noticeably once the path begins climbing. Wear comfortable shoes and buy a drink before heading uphill.

Walk or take the Keihan train one stop to Tofuku-ji, allowing roughly 1½ hours for the temple complex. Its Tsutenkyo Bridge is especially popular during autumn foliage, so expect some queuing and follow any one-way arrangements in place. The temple generally opens around 8:30 or 9:00, with admission commonly around ¥500–¥600 for the garden areas, although seasonal schedules and fees can change. For lunch, keep it simple around Tofukuji Station—small soba and udon shops are more convenient than trying to find a long sit-down meal in the temple grounds.

Afternoon

Continue north into Higashiyama for Sanjusangen-do, either by Keihan train to Shichijo Station followed by a short walk, or by bus if traffic is moving well. Give yourself about an hour inside this remarkable wooden hall, where 1,001 statues of Kannon create an unusually powerful, hushed experience. It usually opens from 8:30 to 17:00, with final admission about 30 minutes before closing; admission is generally around ¥600. From there, walk a few minutes to the Kyoto National Museum. Allow 1½ hours for the permanent collection or current special exhibition, checking the exhibition schedule before you go—many galleries close around 17:00, with later hours on selected Fridays and Saturdays. If you need a pause between the two, Café Cento Cento near Shichijo-dori is a practical coffee stop rather than a destination in itself.

Evening

Head back downtown by the Keihan Line from Shichijo to Sanjo, or take a short taxi if you are tired; Kyoto’s evening traffic makes taxis slower than the train but convenient for this relatively short hop. Have dinner at Honke Owariya, one of Kyoto’s long-established soba restaurants near Karasuma Oike. Expect roughly ¥2,000–¥4,000 per person, and arrive before the main dinner rush—around 17:30–18:00 is safest, as it may close once the day’s preparation runs out. Try the layered soba set with seasonal vegetables, then wander quietly along nearby 姉小路通 (Aneyakoji-dori) after dinner; it is a pleasant, low-key way to finish a temple-heavy day without adding another major sight.

Morning: Kyoto to Osaka and the Castle Park

Take the JR Kyoto Line Special Rapid from Kyoto to Osaka Station around 8:00–9:00; the ride is about 30 minutes and costs roughly ¥580. From there, continue on the JR Osaka Loop Line to Morinomiya Station, then leave your luggage at the accommodation or in station lockers before walking into Osaka Castle Park. Allow around two hours for the broad grounds, moat and seasonal trees, with the castle tower as the main stop. The tower museum usually opens at 9:00 and costs about ¥1,200; the park itself is free. The reconstructed interior is more modern than atmospheric, but the upper observation floor gives excellent city views.

Afternoon: Osaka’s History

Walk or take the Osaka Metro from Morinomiya to Tanimachi 4-chome, where Osaka Museum of History makes a good follow-up to the castle. Its upper floors descend through Osaka’s past, from the ancient Naniwa capital to the merchant city and modern metropolis; allow about 1½ hours. It generally opens from 9:30 to 17:00, with last entry around 16:30, and admission is approximately ¥600. For lunch, keep it casual around Tanimachi 4-chome—the small noodle shops and teishoku restaurants near the station are quicker and more local than detouring into the busiest shopping districts.

Late Afternoon and Evening: Nippombashi to Dotonbori

Take the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line from Tanimachi 4-chome to 谷町九丁目 (Tanimachi 9-chome), change to the Sennichimae Line, and continue to Nippombashi—roughly 15 minutes—then walk into Kuromon Ichiba Market. Arrive by about 15:30–16:00, when it is still lively but less packed than at lunchtime; allow 1½ hours to browse grilled scallops, oysters, wagyu skewers and fruit. Many stalls close by late afternoon, so eat as you wander rather than saving the market for dinner. From there, it is a pleasant 10-minute walk south-west to Dotonbori. Follow the canal from the Ebisubashi Bridge toward the neon signs, but slip onto the side streets around Hozenji Yokocho for a quieter glimpse of old Osaka before returning to the main promenade. Finish at Mizuno, a long-established okonomiyaki restaurant near the canal; expect roughly ¥2,000–4,000 per person, and be prepared for a queue, especially at dinner. Go slightly before 17:30 or put your name down and explore nearby while waiting.

Morning

Start at Shitenno-ji, arriving around 8:30–9:00 before the temple grounds become busy. From central Osaka, take the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line to Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station, then walk about five minutes; from Namba, it is also roughly 10 minutes by taxi. Allow 1½ hours to see the central temple precinct, five-storey pagoda and quiet gardens. The inner grounds generally open around 8:30–9:00, with admission usually about ¥300–500 depending on which areas are open. Afterward, walk or take the Tanimachi Line one stop to Tennoji, then continue south toward Shinsekai—a pleasant 15–20-minute walk if you want to see the changing streetscape.

Late Morning and Midday

Reach Tsutenkaku around 11:00, when visibility is often better than later in the day and the surrounding lanes are still manageable. The observation areas usually open from around 9:00 or 10:00, with standard admission commonly around ¥1,000–1,500; allow about an hour. Then spend some unhurried time wandering Shinsekai, especially the bright Janjan Yokocho arcade and the streets around Ebisucho. This is the right place for a light kushikatsu lunch, but save room for dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma Shinsekai; if you eat now, choose a small selection rather than a full meal. Remember the old rule: do not double-dip skewers in shared sauce—most shops now provide individual portions or squeeze bottles.

Afternoon and Evening

Return toward Abeno and visit Abeno Harukas, either by walking about 15 minutes from Shin-Imamiya or taking the Osaka Metro from Dobutsuen-mae to Tennoji. Head to the Harukas 300 observation deck for roughly 1½ hours; it is worth timing this for the late afternoon, when the city shifts from daylight into evening lights. Tickets are generally around ¥2,000, though prices and entry arrangements can vary, so check availability if you want a particular sunset slot. Take your refreshment break at Harukas 300 Café, where drinks and desserts usually run about ¥1,000–2,000 per person. Once the skyline is lit, return to Shinsekai for dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma Shinsekai—expect approximately ¥2,000–4,000 per person, and be prepared for a queue at peak times. Order a mixed selection of seasonal vegetables, prawns and beef, and pair it with a cold beer; the branch atmosphere is lively and deliberately old-school.

Morning to Late Afternoon

Make Universal Studios Japan your only mission today and arrive before the gates open—ideally around 7:00–7:30, even if the advertised opening time is later. From central Osaka, take the JR Osaka Loop Line or Yumesaki Line to Universal City Station; the last leg from Nishinomiya or Osaka Station is straightforward, but trains and the entrance queue become crowded quickly. Buy tickets in advance, check the official app for the day’s opening time and ride closures, and enter as soon as possible. Spend the first hours on your highest-priority rides, then use the app to manage wait times rather than crossing the park repeatedly. A full day here easily runs 8–10 hours, so wear comfortable shoes, carry a refillable bottle, and expect food and drinks inside the park to be noticeably more expensive.

Reserve a substantial part of the day for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, following the app’s timed-entry instructions if required. Allow roughly two hours for the village streets, Hogwarts Castle, attractions and a butterbeer break; the area is particularly atmospheric as daylight fades, but it is also busiest then. Keep your schedule loose after this visit—USJ crowds, ride delays and show times can shift the day—and consider using the single-rider queues where available if experiencing attractions matters more than sitting together.

Evening

After leaving the park, wander through Universal CityWalk Osaka, directly outside Universal City Station. It is a convenient place for about an hour of browsing, snacks and souvenirs, with bright American-style façades and plenty of casual restaurants. Have dinner at Kushikatsu Jan Jan, budgeting approximately ¥2,000–4,000 per person. Order a selection of skewers—meat, seafood and vegetables—and remember the classic kushikatsu rule: do not double-dip in shared sauce. If you are tired, eat early rather than waiting for the busiest post-park rush; trains back toward central Osaka can become crowded immediately after the evening fireworks and final shows.

Morning Arrival and Settling In

Take an early reserved train from Shin-Osaka Station so you reach Tokyo Station around late morning, then change to the JR Yamanote or Ueno-Tokyo Line for Ueno Station. Allow roughly 3–3½ hours in total, including the transfer and getting to your hotel. At Ueno Station, follow the signs carefully—there are several locker areas, particularly around the Central Gate and Hirokoji Gate. Use a large locker for suitcases if your accommodation cannot take bags yet; prices are generally around ¥500–¥1,000 depending on size.

Afternoon: Ueno Park and the Tokyo National Museum

Once you have dropped your luggage, take a gentle walk through Ueno Park, allowing about 1½ hours. This is a good first taste of Tokyo after the long train ride: broad paths, ponds and museum buildings give the area an unhurried feel, with late-autumn colour beginning to show in early November. Continue to the Tokyo National Museum, where you can easily spend 2–2½ hours among Japanese paintings, samurai armour, Buddhist sculpture, ceramics and rotating special exhibitions. General admission is commonly around ¥1,000, though special exhibitions cost extra; check the museum’s opening day and exhibition schedule before setting out, as it is typically closed on Mondays.

Early Evening and Dinner

From Ueno Park, walk south toward Ameyoko Shopping Street, roughly 10 minutes, entering near Okachimachi. Give yourself about 1½ hours to browse the compact market lanes beneath and beside the railway tracks: expect seafood stalls, cosmetics, clothing, snacks and small izakaya, with the atmosphere becoming livelier toward dusk. For dinner, head back toward Ueno Station for Yakiniku Horumon Ueno Tōgyū, a casual charcoal-grilled meat restaurant suited to an easy first evening back in Tokyo. Budget around ¥4,000–6,000 per person, and expect possible waiting at peak dinner time; arriving around 5:30–6:00 pm is usually much easier than turning up after 7:00.

Morning at Senso-ji

Take the Ginza Line to Asakusa Station and arrive around 8:00–8:30, before the tour groups fill the approach. Enter through Kaminarimon, Tokyo’s famous red gate, then walk beneath the lanterns toward Senso-ji. Spend about 1½ hours exploring the temple precinct, including the main hall and quieter side lanes around Asakusa Shrine. The temple grounds are free; the incense burner is worth visiting for the local custom of wafting the smoke toward yourself for good health.

Late Morning and Midday in Asakusa

Continue along Nakamise-dori, allowing about an hour to browse the stalls selling folding fans, sweets, small crafts and souvenirs. Try a freshly made ningyō-yaki cake or a senbei rice cracker, but eat while standing near the stall rather than walking through the busiest section. For a useful change of perspective, head to the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center opposite Kaminarimon. Its upper-floor observation area is free and gives a clear panorama over the temple roofs, the Sumida River and Tokyo Skytree; allow around 45 minutes. The building generally opens from 9:00 to 20:00, though the observation floor can close earlier.

Afternoon at Kappabashi Dougu Street

Walk west from Asakusa for roughly 10–15 minutes to Kappabashi Dougu Street, the long kitchenware district between Asakusa and Ueno. Allow 1½ hours to dip into the specialist shops: look for beautifully finished knives, lacquerware, ceramic bowls, noren curtains and the remarkably realistic plastic food displays used by Japanese restaurants. Many shops close around 17:00–18:00, and some are closed on Sundays, so this is best done during the afternoon rather than left until evening. A compact knife or tableware item is easy to send home, but check airline packing rules before buying blades.

Evening Tempura in Asakusa

Return to Tempura Daikokuya for dinner, one of Asakusa’s old-school tempura restaurants. Expect a traditional, slightly rustic setting and rich, dark dipping sauce rather than the lighter style found at modern tempura counters. Budget approximately ¥3,000–5,000 per person, and be prepared for a queue at peak dinner time; arriving around 17:00–17:30 is the easiest option. Afterward, take a slow walk back toward Kaminarimon—the temple lanterns and shopfronts are especially atmospheric after dark—then use the Ginza Line from Asakusa Station back to Ueno.

Morning

Begin at Yanaka Ginza around 9:30, while the neighbourhood is waking up and the small shops are beginning to open. From Nippori Station, it is a short walk down the famous staircase into this nostalgic shopping street, where you can browse handmade goods, Japanese sweets and old-fashioned snacks. Allow about 1½ hours, but keep your hands free for grazing—try grilled meats, senbei or seasonal treats from the street stalls. Most shops open from around 10:00, and the lane is liveliest later in the morning.

Walk south toward Nezu Shrine, taking roughly 15–20 minutes through the quiet residential streets of Yanaka and Nezu. Aim to arrive around 11:30; the shrine grounds are generally open from early morning and free to enter. Spend about an hour among the vermilion torii, wooded paths and pond gardens. The famous azalea season is in spring, but the grounds are still particularly atmospheric in autumn, with fewer visitors than Tokyo’s headline shrines.

Midday and Afternoon

Continue on foot to Yanaka Cemetery, just north of Ueno Park, allowing around 10 minutes from the shrine. This is a peaceful place to slow down rather than a sightseeing checklist: follow the broad central avenue, then wander the narrower lanes lined with old houses, temples and mature trees. Allow about an hour, and be respectful around active graves. For lunch, look for a small noodle shop or set-meal restaurant around Sendagi or Yanaka—these local neighbourhoods are better for an unhurried meal than trying to return to the main station area.

From the cemetery, walk or take the JR Yamanote Line one stop from Nippori Station to Ueno Station, then spend the afternoon around Shinobazu Pond in Ueno Park. Allow about an hour for the pond path and the views toward the city skyline; November’s lotus leaves will have largely faded, but the open water, waterfowl and surrounding trees make this a pleasant break from the dense streets. If your feet are tired, use the park benches near Bentendo Temple rather than trying to circle the entire pond.

Late Afternoon and Dinner

Return toward Yanaka for coffee at Kayaba Coffee, a much-loved retro café in a beautifully preserved old building. It is about a 15-minute walk from Shinobazu Pond; expect a queue at peak times and roughly ¥1,000–2,000 per person. Settle in for an hour with its thick egg sandwich, coffee or a traditional dessert—the atmosphere is the main reason to come, with wooden fittings and a distinctly old Tokyo feel. Check the café’s current closing time before setting out, as hours can change and it may close relatively early.

Finish with dinner at Hantei in Nezu, a refined kushikatsu restaurant housed in a striking historic wooden building. From Kayaba Coffee, allow about 15 minutes on foot. The restaurant usually serves a set progression of finely prepared skewers rather than a quick standing-style meal, so allow 1½–2 hours and budget around ¥4,000–6,000 per person. Reservations are sensible, particularly for dinner; if you are staying in Ueno, Nezu Station is convenient for returning via the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, while Ueno Station is roughly a 20-minute walk away.

Morning

Start at National Museum of Nature and Science when it opens, usually 9:00, giving yourself around two hours for the natural-history galleries. The museum is especially good on a slower Ueno day: the Japanese collection, dinosaur displays and hands-on science sections are easy to enjoy without rushing. Admission is typically around ¥630, and the museum is generally closed on Mondays, though it is worth checking the 2026 calendar before you go. From your accommodation, walk through Ueno Park rather than taking the train—the park is particularly pleasant in November’s cooler air.

Late Morning and Afternoon

Afterwards, spend about 30 minutes at Tokyo Bunka Kaikan, directly beside Ueno Station. Even if there is no performance on, pause outside to appreciate Kunio Maekawa’s bold modernist design, broad concrete forms and deep geometric shadows; the building is one of Tokyo’s best pieces of post-war architecture. Have lunch around Ameyoko or Okachimachi before heading south-west to Roppongi—the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line from Ueno to Roppongi takes roughly 25 minutes. Allow about two hours at Mori Art Museum, where contemporary exhibitions are paired with sweeping views across the city; admission commonly falls around ¥2,000–2,500, with the exact price depending on the exhibition. Check the closing time and reserve a timed ticket if the current show is popular.

Late Afternoon and Evening

Stay in Roppongi Hills for the Roppongi Hills Observatory, ideally timing your visit near sunset for Tokyo’s lights to come on. Allow about an hour, and check whether the open-air Sky Deck is operating, as access can close in poor weather or strong wind; the indoor observation area is usually open until around 22:00, with last admission earlier. Walk downhill or take a short taxi to Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu for dinner, allowing roughly ¥4,000–6,000 per person for soba, skewers and izakaya-style dishes in its atmospheric timber interior. It is a popular stop, so reserve ahead if possible; from Roppongi Hills, the restaurant is about a 15-minute walk, or a five-minute taxi ride.

Morning: Ueno to Narita

Have breakfast and check out of your Ueno accommodation, confirming that your Narita hotel can hold your bags before check-in. For Narita Station itself, take a JR Narita Express service from Ueno where available, or use the JR Sobu/Rapid route with a transfer at Tokyo Station; allow roughly 1–1½ hours and about ¥1,340–3,000. The Keisei Skyliner is faster to Narita Airport, but it does not take you directly to the town centre, so the JR option is less awkward with luggage. Aim to arrive in Narita around 10:30–11:00, then walk from the station toward Naritasan Shinshoji Temple.

Spend about two hours exploring the temple complex, approaching through the gates and incense-filled precincts before wandering among the pagodas, prayer halls and quieter corners. Admission to the main grounds is free, though some special areas may charge a small fee. The temple is open from early morning, making it an easy first stop even if your train arrival is delayed. Keep your pace relaxed: this is a large complex, and the atmosphere changes noticeably once you leave the busiest central courtyards.

Afternoon and Evening: Temple Gardens and Narita’s Old Street

From the temple, continue into Naritasan Park, directly behind the main complex. Allow about an hour for the ponds, wooded paths and small bridges; early November is often a pleasant time for lingering autumn colour, though the display varies by year. Afterward, stroll back along Naritasan Omotesando, the traditional slope between the temple and Narita Station. Give yourself around 1½ hours to browse old-fashioned sweet shops, tea merchants and souvenir stores. This is the place to try local peanut sweets or pick up a small box of traditional Japanese confectionery, and the street is especially atmospheric as the shopfronts begin to glow in the late afternoon.

For dinner, settle in at Kawatoyo Honten, one of Narita’s classic eel restaurants. Its unagi is grilled over charcoal and served with rice and tare sauce; expect roughly ¥3,000–5,000 per person. Arrive before the main dinner rush if possible, as the restaurant can become busy and queues are common. Afterward, it is only a short walk back toward Narita Station and your accommodation. If you are flying the next day, use the evening to organise luggage and confirm your airport transfer rather than staying out late.

Morning: A final visit to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple

Begin with Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, ideally arriving around 8:00–9:00 before the main approach fills with visitors. From Narita Station, walk uphill along the temple approach for roughly 10–15 minutes; from most Narita hotels, the same route is straightforward on foot. Allow about an hour for the spacious grounds, pagodas, gardens and morning prayer atmosphere. The main temple precinct is free, though some gardens and special areas may charge a small admission fee. Dress respectfully, and remember that prayer services are working religious ceremonies rather than performances—stand quietly at the edges if one is underway.

Late Morning: Naritasan Omotesando

Walk back down Naritasan Omotesando, the old merchant street leading toward the station. Give yourself around an hour to browse traditional sweets, ceramics, folding fans and small food souvenirs. This is one of the better places to buy edible gifts before flying: look for unagi dishes, rice crackers and peanut treats, a local speciality of Chiba. Shops generally open from around 9:00 or 10:00, so the street becomes livelier as the morning progresses. For a final snack, try a small serving of grilled eel or a freshly made rice cracker rather than committing to a large meal before the flight.

Departure: Narita International Airport

Return to your hotel for luggage, then leave for Narita International Airport about three hours before an international departure—earlier if you need to return a pocket Wi-Fi device, arrange tax-free paperwork or check oversized luggage. From Narita Station, the JR Narita Express and Keisei services connect with the airport, while the terminal-specific station matters: Narita Airport Terminal 1 Station serves Terminal 1, and Narita Airport Terminal 2·3 Station serves Terminals 2 and 3. Allow roughly 10–15 minutes from central Narita to the airport by train, plus time to walk through the station and find your airline’s check-in area. Check your terminal and live train times before leaving, and keep passports, tickets and valuables in your day bag rather than your checked luggage.