Dates are flexible. This day-by-day plan is provisional until you choose exact travel dates.
Begin with the Melbourne–Tokyo flight, allowing roughly 12–16 hours door-to-door, including airport check-in, the flight, immigration, baggage collection, and the final transfer. From Haneda Airport, the easiest route is usually the Keikyu Line or Tokyo Monorail into central Tokyo; from Narita Airport, allow considerably longer—often 75–100 minutes by Narita Express or Skyliner, plus the walk from the station to your hotel. Keep the first evening deliberately light: check in, shower, and spend about 45 minutes at a nearby convenience store such as 7-Eleven, Lawson, or FamilyMart for water, breakfast items, onigiri, fruit, and a simple dinner. Don’t commit to anything requiring a timed reservation tonight.
If you still have energy, take the short walk or one stop on the subway to Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku, the narrow lantern-lit yakitori lanes beside the railway tracks. Allow about an hour to wander and eat a small plate rather than treating it as a full meal; the alleyways are compact, seating is limited, and many counters are cash-focused, with individual dishes commonly around ¥300–¥700. Continue toward Kabukicho for dinner at Torikizoku Shinjuku Kabukicho, a casual chain where skewers and drinks are generally ordered from a tablet and the total is around ¥2,000–¥3,500 per person. Expect a queue at peak dinner time, so use the restaurant’s current listing or reservation system on the day rather than assuming immediate seating.
Finish at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observatory in Nishi-Shinjuku only if you are coping well with the travel day. It is normally free and takes about an hour including the walk and lift queue, but opening hours and access can change, so check the official notice before setting out; the observatory may also close for maintenance or weather. From Kabukicho, it is roughly a 20-minute walk west, or a short subway journey via Shinjuku-Nishiguchi. Otherwise, return to the hotel early—jet lag is easier to manage after a light meal, plenty of water, and a proper night’s sleep.
Start early at Meiji Jingu, arriving around opening time while the forest paths are still quiet. From most central Tokyo hotels, take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station or the Tokyo Metro to Meiji-jingumae, then allow about 90 minutes for the shrine approach, main precinct, and a slow walk beneath the tall trees. Entry to the grounds is free; modest clothing and quiet behavior are appreciated, and the shrine buildings may have limited access during ceremonies.
Walk a few minutes to Takeshita Street late in the morning, when its fashion shops, purikura arcades, and crepe stands are properly open. It becomes intensely crowded later, so keep this to an hour and use the parallel Cat Street side of Harajuku if you need a calmer route toward Aoyama. Continue south-east on foot or take the Tokyo Metro one stop from Meiji-jingumae toward Omote-sando; allow roughly 15–25 minutes depending on the route and crowds.
Spend around two hours at the Nezu Museum, whose collection of Japanese and East Asian art is particularly rewarding alongside its landscaped garden. Check the museum’s current opening day before setting out—its regular closure is typically Monday, with occasional holiday adjustments—and allow time for the ticket desk if you have not booked ahead. Admission is generally around ¥1,500–¥2,000, and the garden can be slippery after rain.
For lunch, head to Maisen Aoyama Honten, about a 10-minute walk away through Aoyama’s quieter back streets. The restaurant is in a former bathhouse and is known for tender tonkatsu; expect roughly ¥2,000–¥4,000 per person, with queues common at peak lunchtime. If the wait is long, take a short coffee break nearby rather than compressing the afternoon.
Spend the afternoon wandering Omotesando, starting with the tree-lined avenue and then dipping into the smaller lanes around Jingumae and Aoyama for architecture, design shops, and polished Japanese stationery and fashion. This is best treated as an unhurried walk of about 90 minutes; allow extra time for browsing rather than trying to cover every flagship store.
Finish at Shibuya Sky around sunset. Walk from Omotesando toward Shibuya in about 20–25 minutes, or take the Tokyo Metro from Omote-sando to Shibuya and follow signs for Shibuya Scramble Square. Timed admission is essential and popular sunset slots can sell out well ahead; check the weather and reserve through the official booking site, with tickets usually around ¥2,000–¥2,500. Bring a light layer—wind is noticeably stronger on the open-air deck—and keep the rest of the evening flexible for dinner around Shibuya.
Start at Tsukiji Outer Market around 8:00–8:30, when the food stalls are lively but the narrow lanes are not yet at their busiest. Allow about two hours to graze rather than sit down for a large breakfast: try grilled seafood, fresh sashimi, and a hot tamagoyaki skewer. Most vendors are cash-friendly, though some accept cards; avoid blocking shopfronts while eating, and remember that the wholesale market itself moved to Toyosu years ago. From Tsukiji Station, it is an easy walk to Hamarikyu Gardens—roughly 15 minutes—or you can use the Oedo Line to Shiodome. Entry to the gardens is about ¥300, and the site generally opens from 9:00, though confirm seasonal hours before you go.
Spend around 90 minutes in Hamarikyu Gardens, following the ponds, teahouse paths, and former duck-hunting grounds beneath the Shiodome skyscrapers. The garden’s Nakajima-no-Ochaya teahouse is a pleasant place for matcha if you want a quiet pause. From Shiodome, take the Oedo Line toward Azabu-juban and walk into Azabudai Hills; allow roughly 25–30 minutes door-to-door, including station passages. Have a light lunch in Azabudai Hills before your timed entry—there are convenient cafés and casual restaurants—because teamLab Borderless is immersive enough that eating inside beforehand is much easier.
Plan about two hours for teamLab Borderless. Your timed ticket is essential: entry is capacity-controlled, and late arrival may reduce your visiting window, so book ahead and arrive 15–20 minutes early. Wear comfortable shoes, keep luggage small, and expect dim rooms, mirrors, uneven surfaces, and areas where you may need to wait briefly. Afterward, walk about 15–20 minutes to Zojo-ji Temple, passing through the streets around Azabu and Shiba. Allow an hour at the temple to see the main hall, cemetery approaches, and the distinctive rows of Jizo statues; the temple grounds are free, while any special interior or seasonal exhibitions may charge separately.
Continue on foot to Tokyo Tower, around 10 minutes from Zojo-ji. The tower is especially atmospheric as the city lights come on, but sunset observation-deck slots are popular, so reserve a timed ticket in advance if that view matters to you. Budget roughly ¥1,200–¥3,000 depending on the deck and ticket type, and allow 90 minutes including queues and the lift experience. Finish with dinner at a well-reviewed sushi counter near Azabu; expect approximately ¥5,000–¥12,000 per person for a good casual-to-midrange meal, with omakase counters often costing more. Reservations are wise, and arrive on time—small sushi restaurants may release a booking after only a short grace period.
Begin at Senso-ji around 7:30–8:00, before the main visitor flow reaches Asakusa. Enter through Kaminarimon and walk quietly up toward the temple’s main hall; the grounds are free, while the inner hall typically opens from around 6:00 (later in winter). Allow about 90 minutes, and remember that the large incense burner is for wafting smoke toward yourself rather than burning extra sticks.
Continue along Nakamise-dori, the traditional shopping street between Kaminarimon and the temple. Many shops open around 9:00–10:00, so this is a good time for ningyoyaki cakes, rice crackers, or a small traditional souvenir without rushing. From the temple area, walk roughly 15 minutes east to Kappabashi Dougu Street, where specialist shops sell everything from lacquerware and knives to remarkably realistic plastic food. Most stores open around 10:00 and close by late afternoon; knife purchases may require engraving time, and international visitors should ask about packing and customs restrictions.
Walk or take the Tobu Skytree Line from Asakusa to Tokyo Skytree at Oshiage—about 10–15 minutes depending on the route—and arrive for your reserved observation-deck time. Allow around two hours including security, lifts, and browsing the Tembo Deck and, if booked, the higher Tembo Galleria. Online timed admission is the sensible choice, particularly on clear days; standard admission is roughly ¥2,100–¥2,400, with the higher gallery costing extra. Afterward, take a break beside the river at Sumida Park, about a 10-minute walk away, where the paths offer an easy view back toward Skytree. The riverside is especially pleasant in the late afternoon, and you can return toward Asakusa on foot in about 15–20 minutes.
Finish with dinner at a long-established Asakusa tempura restaurant. Daikokuya Tempura near the temple is the classic choice, known for its dark, rich sauce and substantial tendon; expect roughly ¥3,000–¥7,000 per person, with queues possible at dinner. For a more refined counter-style meal, Tempura Nakasei is another respected option, but booking is wise and prices can rise above this range. Allow 90 minutes and carry cash as a backup—smaller traditional restaurants may not always accept every card.
Start at Shibuya Scramble Crossing around 9:00, before the area fills with shoppers and tour groups. From your hotel, use the JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro, or Tokyu lines to Shibuya Station; allow extra time inside the station, which has several confusing exits. Cross once from the ground, then head to the nearby Hachikō Statue for a quick look and photos—both stops together take about 50 minutes. For a higher view of the crossing, Shibuya Sky is nearby, but it requires a separate timed ticket and is not necessary for today.
Walk or take the JR Yamanote Line one stop to Harajuku, then enter Yoyogi Park from the western side. Spend roughly 90 minutes on the broad paths and wooded trails, taking a relaxed break rather than trying to cover the whole park. This is a good place to buy a drink or snack before continuing; avoid planning a formal lunch here, as options inside the park are limited. Check the park’s condition after rain, since some paths can be muddy.
From Harajuku Station, take the JR Chūō-Sōbu Line from Shinjuku toward Mitaka—the journey is usually about 25–35 minutes door to door, followed by a local bus or approximately 15 minutes on foot to the Ghibli Museum. Your reserved Lawson ticket is essential: entry is timed, tickets are not normally sold at the museum, and photography is restricted inside. Allow about 2½ hours, including the small cinema and permanent exhibits; arrive 15–20 minutes before the printed entry time. Afterward, walk back through Inokashira Park toward Kichijōji, following the lake paths and wooded edges for about an hour. The park is especially pleasant in the late afternoon, though boat rentals and some facilities may close earlier depending on the season.
Finish with a casual dinner around Harmonica Alley in Kichijōji, a compact maze of tiny izakaya near the north exit of the station. Try grilled skewers, simmered dishes, sashimi, and seasonal vegetables; Harmonica Kitchen is a comfortable choice if you prefer a slightly more spacious setting, while the smallest counters are best for atmosphere. Budget around ¥3,000–¥5,000 per person, and expect some venues to be cash-only or to apply a small seating charge. Trains back toward central Tokyo are frequent, but check the last connection if you are returning to a distant neighborhood.
After breakfast, take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto; allow roughly 2½–3½ hours door to door once you include getting to the station, boarding, and transferring to your lodging. Reserve both the basic fare and limited-express seat in advance if possible. On arrival, leave larger bags at your ryokan or use luggage forwarding from Tokyo—Hakone’s buses and hills are much easier without suitcases. Spend about an hour around Hakone-Yumoto, following the riverside lanes and browsing the small confectionery, craft, and souvenir shops. A quick snack such as 湯もち本舗 ちもと’s soft yuzu-scented sweets is a good local introduction; opening hours and queues vary, so treat it as optional rather than essential.
From Hakone-Yumoto, take the Hakone Tozan train to Chokoku-no-Mori Station—about 30–40 minutes, depending on the service—and walk a few minutes to the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Allow around 2½ hours for the sculpture gardens, Picasso Museum, and mountain views; the museum generally operates during daytime hours, with admission around ¥2,000, but check the official schedule before travelling. Continue by train one stop to Gora, then walk uphill to Gora Park for about an hour among its terraces, ponds, and seasonal plantings. The hillside setting is particularly pleasant late in the day, though allow extra time for the climb and note that the park’s closing time changes seasonally. If you buy a Hakone Freepass, it can simplify the local trains and buses, but compare its price with your actual rides.
Return to your ryokan in Gora or Hakone-Yumoto and settle in before your reserved kaiseki dinner. Expect a carefully paced meal of seasonal fish, vegetables, tofu, and local specialties, usually costing about ¥8,000–¥20,000 per person depending on the accommodation and plan. Dinner is commonly served at a fixed time, so confirm it at check-in rather than assuming you can arrive late. Finish with a private or public onsen session for about an hour. Reserve a private bath ahead if privacy is important or if tattoos may be an issue; otherwise, ask the ryokan which public bath periods are available. Bring no swimwear—onsen bathing is generally nude—and rinse thoroughly before entering the water.
Start at Sounzan Station around 8:30–9:00 and take the Hakone Ropeway toward Togendai, allowing about 1½ hours including the stop at Owakudani. The cabins cross the steep volcanic valley, with views of sulphurous vents and, on a clear day, Mount Fuji. The ropeway is weather-dependent and can pause in strong wind; check the official operating status before leaving your accommodation. A one-way Sounzan–Togendai journey is roughly ¥1,800, while a Hakone Freepass may cover it if you purchased one for the wider circuit.
Get off at Owakudani for about an hour. Follow the marked viewing paths rather than wandering beyond barriers—the ground is geothermally active, and the sulphur smell can be surprisingly strong. Try one of the famous black eggs, boiled in the volcanic waters, and allow extra time if the small shops are busy. If volcanic gas levels are high, walking routes or access for visitors with respiratory sensitivities may be restricted.
Continue by ropeway to Togendai, then board the Lake Ashi sightseeing cruise to Moto-Hakone. The crossing takes about 30–40 minutes, though allow an hour for boarding and enjoying the deck views. Sit outside when weather permits, but bring a light layer—the lake can feel cool even in September. The boats generally run several times daily, but services can be reduced by weather, so keep the timetable handy rather than relying on a tight connection.
Have lunch near the Moto-Hakone pier at a local soba or set-meal restaurant, budgeting ¥1,500–¥3,000 per person. Hakone Karuta, close to the waterfront, is a practical choice for soba and Japanese set meals, though queues are possible around midday. Eat before sightseeing onward, as restaurant options become sparser along the historic trail.
After lunch, walk to Hakone Shrine, allowing around 1½ hours. Follow the cedar-lined approach uphill from the lake and take your time at the shrine buildings and lakeside torii. The torii is a popular photo stop, so expect a queue for the closest viewpoint; the shrine grounds themselves are free. From there, continue along the Old Tokaido Cedar Avenue, a beautifully preserved, shaded section of the former highway. Wear shoes with good grip—the historic path can be uneven and damp.
Finish back in Moto-Hakone and use the local bus to return to your accommodation, checking the destination carefully because Hakone’s routes are slow and winding. The complete ropeway–cruise circuit can take most of the day once queues and transfers are included; if services are suspended, use the replacement bus routes and treat the lake cruise as optional rather than trying to force the schedule.
Leave Hakone after breakfast, ideally around 8:00–9:00, allowing roughly four to five hours door-to-door for the local connection to Odawara, the Tokaido Shinkansen to Kyoto, luggage, and hotel check-in. Reserve a Hikari seat in advance if possible; forwarding large bags to Kyoto is well worth considering, especially if you are staying in a compact central hotel. Once checked in, walk or take the subway to Nishiki Market—from Karasuma Oike or Shijo stations, allow about 10–15 minutes on foot.
Spend around 90 minutes browsing Nishiki Market, arriving by mid-afternoon when many stalls are still trading but the morning crowds have eased. This is a grazing stop rather than a sit-down lunch: look for Kyoto-style pickles, yuba, tamagoyaki, grilled seafood, and seasonal sweets. Eat neatly at the stall or in designated areas, as the narrow covered arcade is not suited to walking while eating. At the eastern end, step into Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine, a small, atmospheric shrine dedicated to scholarship; 20–30 minutes is enough. Market hours vary by business, and many stalls close by late afternoon, so avoid leaving this stop too late.
From Nishiki Tenmangu, it is a pleasant 10-minute walk east toward Pontocho. Wander the narrow lane before dinner, looking down the small side alleys toward the river; the most atmospheric stretch is between Shijo-dori and Sanjo-dori, though restaurants may be discreetly signed and reservations are often essential. Continue to the nearby Kamo River for a relaxed 30–45-minute walk around the Shijo area, especially lovely as the lights come on and locals gather along the banks.
Finish with a reserved Pontocho kaiseki meal or izakaya dinner, budgeting approximately ¥5,000–¥12,000 per person. Restaurants here range from intimate counter dining to casual shared plates, but some require punctual arrival and may have a set menu or minimum order. After dinner, the central Kawaramachi and Gion-Shijo stations are both within easy walking distance; check the final train time if your hotel is farther out.
Start before 7:30 at Fushimi Inari Taisha, reaching the shrine via the JR Nara Line to Inari Station or the Keihan Line to Fushimi-Inari Station. The lower shrine is free and open around the clock; allow about 2½ hours to walk through the first torii tunnels and continue uphill to the quieter viewpoints. Most visitors turn back early, so even a partial climb gives you a calmer experience. Wear proper shoes and carry water—there are many steps, and the upper trail has limited facilities.
Walk roughly 15 minutes north to Tofuku-ji, one of Kyoto’s finest Zen temple complexes. Allow 1½ hours for the gates, gardens, and atmospheric covered walkways; admission varies by garden and seasonal period, commonly around ¥500–¥1,000. The temple is especially popular during autumn foliage, so expect queues if your September trip overlaps a special exhibition or event. For lunch, eat near Tofukuji Station or continue toward Higashiyama rather than relying on the temple grounds, where choices are limited.
From Tofuku-ji, take a short bus ride or walk about 25 minutes to Sanjusangen-do. Its vast wooden hall and 1,001 statues of Kannon are the main event; allow around 1½ hours and keep voices low, as this is a functioning religious site rather than a conventional gallery. Admission is usually about ¥600–¥800, with cash still useful at smaller temple counters.
Cross the road to the Kyoto National Museum for roughly two hours of Japanese ceramics, paintings, sculpture, and rotating special exhibitions. The museum is generally closed on Mondays, while opening times and special-exhibition ticketing vary, so check the official schedule before committing; standard admission is often around ¥700–¥1,600 depending on the exhibition. If the museum is closed, do not assume same-day entry—use the time for a longer visit at Sanjusangen-do and a relaxed walk through nearby Higashiyama instead.
Take a Kyoto City Bus or taxi north to Okazaki Shrine, allowing about 30–40 minutes depending on traffic. This small shrine is known for its rabbit imagery and is a pleasant change from Kyoto’s headline sights; 45 minutes is enough to explore without rushing. It is free to enter, and the grounds are usually accessible from morning until early evening, although exact worship-office hours can vary.
Finish with a yudofu dinner at a tofu restaurant in Higashiyama, budgeting approximately ¥3,000–¥6,000 per person for a set meal. Nanzenji Junsei is a dependable choice if you want a traditional garden setting, while Okutan Kiyomizu suits a quieter temple-side meal; reserve ahead, particularly for dinner and during busy travel periods. From there, Kyoto Station is about 20–30 minutes by taxi or bus, but buses slow considerably in the evening—allow extra time and use a taxi if you are tired.
Start early for Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, ideally arriving around 7:30–8:00. From central Kyoto, take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station—about 15–20 minutes from Kyoto Station—then walk roughly 10–15 minutes to the grove. The bamboo path is free and open at all hours; go straight through to the quieter upper section before tour groups arrive. Allow about an hour, and keep expectations realistic: even early, the most famous stretch may have photographers and small groups.
Continue to Tenryu-ji, entering through the north gate from the bamboo grove. The temple grounds and garden usually open from around 8:30, with separate admission for the garden and buildings—budget roughly ¥500–¥800 depending on what you visit. Spend about 90 minutes here, especially in the landscaped garden around the pond, then walk uphill to Ōkōchi Sansō Garden. Its admission is relatively high at around ¥1,000, but it includes tea and sweets, and the garden’s paths give you a much calmer experience with broad views across Kyoto. Allow another 60–90 minutes; wear comfortable shoes, as there are slopes and stone steps.
Walk downhill toward Togetsukyo Bridge for the classic Katsura River panorama. Pause on the bridge and riverbank for about 45 minutes, then have lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura, a popular riverside soba restaurant. Arrive before the main lunch rush—around 11:30–12:00 is safest—or expect a queue. A meal should cost approximately ¥1,500–¥3,000 per person, and the riverside setting is particularly pleasant in September, though outdoor seating can depend on weather.
After lunch, spend the afternoon following the Katsura River at an unhurried pace rather than adding another major sight. Walk west and then along the quieter river paths, stopping wherever the water, wooded hills, or small boats catch your eye. This is a good time to buy a drink or seasonal sweet from the central Arashiyama streets, but keep some flexibility: if the heat is still strong, shorten the walk and return by the quieter route to Saga-Arashiyama Station or use the Keifuku Randen line from Arashiyama Station. Allow roughly 30–45 minutes back to central Kyoto, plus time for the station transfer and evening plans.
Start at Kinkaku-ji soon after opening, ideally around 9:00, before the northern Kyoto tour groups arrive. From central Kyoto, take Kyoto City Bus 205 or 204 toward the Kinkakuji-michi stop; allow 40–60 minutes depending on traffic. The golden pavilion is viewed from a set route around the pond rather than entered, so allow about 90 minutes. Admission is approximately ¥500, and the grounds are exposed, so carry water—September mornings can still feel distinctly hot.
Walk or take a short bus ride to Ryoan-ji, allowing roughly 20 minutes on foot or a little longer by bus. Spend about 1½ hours here, including the stone garden, mossy grounds, and the pond garden beyond the main temple buildings. The famous garden is best approached slowly: sit for a few quiet minutes before moving on, as the experience is more about atmosphere than simply taking a photograph. Admission is around ¥500; buses can be crowded, so walking is often the calmer option.
Continue to Ninna-ji, about 15–20 minutes by local bus or roughly 25 minutes on foot from Ryoan-ji. This broad, imperial-connected complex rewards unhurried wandering through its gates, gardens, and wooden halls. Entry fees vary by season and by which areas are open, commonly around ¥500–¥1,000; check the temple’s current schedule before relying on access to the paid garden or palace areas. For lunch, stop at a simple noodle or set-meal shop around Omuro rather than returning toward the city centre.
After lunch, head by bus or taxi to Daitoku-ji, allowing 25–35 minutes depending on traffic. The complex is a collection of Zen subtemples, and opening arrangements and admission charges differ; choose the currently open gardens rather than expecting every subtemple to be accessible. Allow about two hours, with a taxi worthwhile if the heat is intense. Finish at Imamiya Shrine in the late afternoon, a short walk or brief taxi ride from Daitoku-ji. The shrine itself is free and usually peaceful, while the small food-stall atmosphere is centred on aburi-mochi—grilled rice cakes served with sweet miso. The two long-established shops beside the shrine are a lovely place for a snack, though opening days can vary.
Stay in the northern Kita area for dinner rather than crossing Kyoto again. Look for a small obanzai restaurant around Kitaoji or Kuramaguchi, ideally reserving ahead if you have a particular counter-style place in mind. Expect seasonal vegetables, tofu, fish, pickles, and simmered dishes served in a relaxed home-style sequence, generally ¥3,000–¥6,000 per person before drinks. From Imamiya Shrine, Kitaoji Station is reachable by bus or a 10–15-minute taxi ride; after dinner, the Karasuma Subway Line provides the simplest return toward central Kyoto.
Leave Kyoto around 7:30–8:00, allowing about 1½ hours door-to-door for getting to Kyoto Station, the Kintetsu Limited Express, and the walk from Kintetsu-Nara Station. Reserve the limited-express surcharge if you want a guaranteed seat; otherwise, regular Kintetsu services are cheaper. If your accommodation cannot hold luggage, use station lockers or forward larger bags to your Osaka hotel. From the station, walk or take a short bus ride toward Nara Park, reaching Todai-ji around 9:00. Allow roughly two hours for the temple grounds and the immense Great Buddha Hall; admission is generally around ¥800, with opening times varying by season.
Walk east through Nara Park after leaving Todai-ji, keeping a little distance from the deer and buying crackers only if you are ready to feed them immediately—once the crackers are gone, show open hands so they understand. The broad park paths are free and best enjoyed at an unhurried pace for about 90 minutes. Continue into the quieter, wooded approach to Kasuga Taisha, where stone and bronze lanterns line the forest paths. Allow another 1½ hours; the outer shrine area is usually free, while inner areas may charge a modest fee, and some buildings have seasonal opening hours.
From Kasuga Taisha, walk back toward central Nara through the park, or take a local bus if your feet need a break—allow 20–30 minutes depending on the route. Have lunch at a traditional kakinoha-zushi restaurant in Naramachi, budgeting approximately ¥1,500–¥3,000 per person. This local pressed sushi is wrapped in persimmon leaves and is particularly associated with mackerel and salmon; portions can be compact, so add a small side or dessert if hungry. After lunch, spend around two hours wandering Naramachi, the former merchant district, where dark wooden townhouses, small craft shops, tea rooms, and narrow lanes make for a gentler finish than the busy park. Most shops close in the late afternoon, so aim to arrive by 14:00–14:30; return to Kintetsu-Nara Station on foot in about 15 minutes, or by local bus if carrying shopping.
Take the Kintetsu Railway from Kintetsu-Nara Station to Osaka-Namba, allowing 40–50 minutes on the train and roughly 1½–2 hours door-to-door for checking out, finding the platform, and dropping luggage at your Namba accommodation. A regular train is inexpensive; a limited-express service costs more but gives you a reserved seat. From Osaka-Namba, walk or take the Osaka Metro one stop to Nippombashi, then spend about 90 minutes grazing through Kuromon Ichiba Market. Go late morning, when the stalls are properly open: look for grilled scallops, tamagoyaki, wagyu skewers, seasonal fruit, and small portions of sashimi rather than trying to make this a single formal meal. Prices vary widely, so check before ordering seafood or fruit prepared by weight.
Walk south-west through Namba to Hozenji Yokocho, a short, atmospheric lane of stone paving, wooden facades, and small restaurants beside Hozenji Temple. Allow around 45 minutes, including a quiet look at the moss-covered Fudo Myoo statue; the temple is free, and visitors traditionally splash it with water. From there, it is about a five-minute walk to Dotonbori, where you can follow the canal frontage and take in the oversized food signs around Ebisu-bashi Bridge. Keep this as a stroll rather than another full meal, since the best okonomiyaki is being saved for dinner. Later, take the Osaka Metro from Nippombashi toward Tenjinbashisuji for the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living. Allow about 1½ hours to walk through its recreated Edo-period streets; the museum generally operates during daytime hours and is commonly closed on Tuesdays, but check the September 2027 schedule before relying on entry. Admission is modest, usually around ¥600–¥800.
Return to Namba by subway, allowing roughly 20–30 minutes including the walk from the museum. For dinner, book ahead if possible at Mizuno, a long-established Dotonbori okonomiyaki restaurant, or join the queue at Kukuru-area eateries if you prefer something more casual. Expect approximately ¥1,500–¥3,500 per person, depending on toppings and drinks; queues can be substantial at popular shops, especially around dinner time. Afterward, take one final wander along the canal—Dotonbori is liveliest after dark—then walk back to your Namba hotel rather than adding another distant attraction.
Start around 8:30 at Osaka Castle, entering from Osaka Castle Park and allowing roughly 2½ hours for the museum and grounds. The castle tower’s museum usually opens from 9:00, with admission around ¥1,200; arrive early because ticket queues and lifts can slow things down. The reconstructed tower is best treated as a museum rather than an original keep, while the moat, stone walls, and broad park paths provide the more atmospheric experience. From the castle, walk across to Nishinomaru Garden for about an hour. It is a calmer spot for the classic castle view, with a separate admission fee generally around ¥200 (and seasonal variations); check the opening day, as gardens and museums can have regular closure days.
Walk or take the Osaka Metro from the castle area to Osaka Museum of History in Tanimachi, allowing about 10–15 minutes on foot or a short ride on the Tanimachi Line. Spend around two hours moving down through the exhibition floors: the high-level galleries trace Osaka’s development from ancient Naniwa to its modern commercial life, and the upper floors give one of the clearest framed views back toward the castle. Admission is usually about ¥600, with combination tickets sometimes available; confirm the current schedule before setting out. For lunch, keep it simple around Tanimachi 4-chome—a soba shop or teishoku counter will be quicker and more local than detouring into a major department store.
From Tanimachi 4-chome, take the Chuo Line toward Hommachi and change for Yodoyabashi, then walk onto Nakanoshima Park. Allow an hour for the riverside paths and rose garden, especially in the softer late-afternoon light. Continue to the National Museum of Art, Osaka, an underground museum in the Nakanoshima district, for roughly two hours; its modern and contemporary exhibitions change, so check the current show and closing time before visiting. General admission varies by exhibition, commonly around ¥430–¥2,000. Finish in Kitashinchi, walking or taking a short taxi from Nakanoshima, for charcoal-grilled chicken at a well-reviewed yakitori restaurant. Expect roughly ¥4,000–¥8,000 per person; reservations are sensible, and many small counters seat only a handful of guests. Note that Kitashinchi is a nightlife district, so restaurants may open for dinner from about 17:00 and become busiest after 19:00.
Take the Sanyo Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station around 8:00–9:00, allowing roughly 3–4 hours door-to-door for getting out of your Osaka hotel, reaching the station, the 1½-hour train, and checking in or dropping bags in Hiroshima. A reserved Nozomi seat is worth booking through SmartEX or JR West, especially with luggage; fares are usually around ¥10,500–¥11,500. From Hiroshima Station, use the Hiroshima Electric Railway tram toward Hiroden-nishi-hiroshima or Eba, alighting near Genbaku-Domu-mae; the ride takes about 20 minutes. After a quick lunch—perhaps a simple set meal around the station—walk into the memorial district rather than trying to fit in a formal restaurant.
Begin at Peace Memorial Park, allowing about 1½ hours to follow the riverfront paths and memorials at an unhurried pace. The Atomic Bomb Dome is immediately beside the park; spend around 30 minutes viewing it from the riverside and across the water, where its preserved framework is especially striking. Continue to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum for roughly two hours. Check the official website shortly before travelling for current opening hours, ticketing, and any advance-entry requirement; queues can be substantial, and the exhibits are emotionally demanding, so avoid rushing the final galleries. The museum is generally closed on selected days rather than following a simple daily pattern, so confirm before departure.
After the museum, walk or take the tram toward Hondori Shopping Street, Hiroshima’s covered central arcade, for about an hour of browsing boutiques, local sweets, and small bars. Return toward the park for dinner at Okonomiyaki Nagata-ya, near the Atomic Bomb Dome, where Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is layered with cabbage, noodles, batter, and toppings directly on the hotplate. Allow around 1½ hours and budget approximately ¥1,500–¥3,000 per person; expect a wait at peak dinner time, and remember that the restaurant’s hours or queue system can change. The restaurant is conveniently placed for a final quiet walk beside the river before returning to your accommodation.
Leave Hiroshima early enough to reach Miyajimaguchi before the main crowds—roughly 1½ hours door to door from central Hiroshima, including the JR Sanyo Line and the ferry. Both the JR West and Matsudai ferries make the crossing, but use the JR service if you are travelling on a pass. Check the tide table before setting out: Itsukushima Shrine and its famous torii are most dramatic at high tide, while low tide lets you walk out toward the base of the gate. Allow about 1½ hours around the waterfront; the shrine admission is typically around ¥300, and queues can build quickly.
Afterwards, wander Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street for about an hour. It is touristy, but the local specialities are worth trying—grilled oysters, momiji manju cakes, and small savoury snacks. Keep some room for lunch rather than grazing too heavily here, and remember that deer are accustomed to visitors but should not be fed.
Walk uphill through the quieter lanes to Daisho-in, usually 15–20 minutes from the shrine. This atmospheric temple complex is free to enter and rewards slow exploration: look for the rows of small Buddhist figures, lantern-lit halls, and views back toward the harbour. Allow around 1½ hours, especially if the weather is warm; the slope is manageable but there are plenty of steps.
Return toward the waterfront for a sit-down lunch at a Miyajima oyster restaurant such as Kakiya or Yakigaki-no Hayashi. Expect roughly ¥2,000–¥4,000 per person for oysters, rice, and often grilled or fried local seafood. Anago—saltwater eel served over rice—is another excellent island choice. Lunch queues are common, so a slightly early or late meal will save time.
Continue to the Mount Misen Ropeway station, allowing around 15–20 minutes on foot from the shopping street; a paid shuttle bus may be useful if you want to conserve energy. The ropeway ride itself is short, but allow about 2½ hours for queues, both cable-car sections, and the walk from the upper station to the summit viewpoints. On clear days, the panorama across the Seto Inland Sea is superb. Wear comfortable shoes and carry water—the final paths are steeper and rockier than the island waterfront.
Return by ropeway with enough time for the final ferry crossings; services continue into the evening, but check the day’s timetable rather than assuming a late departure. If you still have energy, enjoy a quieter waterfront stroll after the day-trippers thin out, then take the ferry back to Miyajimaguchi and the JR train onward to Hiroshima.
After the long Miyajima–Kanazawa transfer, expect to arrive in the city around mid- to late afternoon if you left Hiroshima early. The route involves several reserved-train changes, so keep your tickets together and allow a little margin at Tsuruga and Shin-Osaka. If you forwarded your larger bags, they should already be waiting at your Kanazawa hotel; otherwise, use the station’s coin lockers before sightseeing.
Begin at Kanazawa Station’s Tsuzumimon Gate, the impressive timber arch outside the east exit. Give yourself about 30 minutes to look at the gate and its glass Motenashi Dome, particularly attractive as the afternoon light fades. From the station, it is roughly a 15-minute walk or a short local bus ride into the centre. Continue to Omicho Market, where you can spend around 90 minutes browsing seafood stalls, pickles, fruit, and regional sweets. Check the day’s closing times when you arrive—many individual vendors finish by late afternoon—so treat this as a browse and snack stop rather than relying on it for dinner.
Walk about 10 minutes from the market to Oyama Shrine, whose unusual entrance gate combines Japanese, Chinese, and Dutch-influenced design. The grounds are free and generally accessible into the evening, though the inner shrine buildings may close earlier. Afterward, continue toward Korinbo, the city’s main shopping and dining area, about 15 minutes on foot. The streets around Korinbo and nearby Katamachi are ideal for an unhurried first look at Kanazawa: department stores and polished arcades give way to compact bars, small restaurants, and atmospheric side streets. If you are tired from the transfer, this is a good point to return to your hotel rather than adding another major sight.
Have dinner at a Kanazawa seafood izakaya in Korinbo or Katamachi, allowing about 90 minutes and roughly ¥4,000–¥8,000 per person. Look for seasonal Hokuriku seafood, local crab when available, nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch), and sushi featuring fish from the Sea of Japan. A reservation is sensible for a popular counter-style restaurant, especially on busy evenings; otherwise, arrive early and be prepared for a short wait. Keep the night relaxed—after a six- to seven-hour transfer, Kanazawa’s compact centre is best enjoyed with a good meal and an early rest.
Start early at Kenroku-en, ideally around 7:30–8:00, before the garden’s paths become busy. Allow about two hours to wander slowly through the ponds, streams, stone bridges, and carefully trained pines; the garden is especially atmospheric in the soft morning light. Admission is roughly ¥320, with seasonal opening times varying, so check the official schedule before setting out. From central Kanazawa, a short bus ride or around 25 minutes on foot brings you to the Kenroku-en district.
Cross directly into Kanazawa Castle Park for another 90 minutes. The grounds are free, while the reconstructed Hishiyama-maru and Gyokuseninmaru areas may have separate or combined charges depending on the buildings open that day. The wide stone walls and restored gates are best appreciated without rushing. Leave through the Korinbo side and walk or take a local bus toward Hirosaka for lunch; Curio Espresso and Vintage Design is a good coffee stop, while Tsuboya Cafe offers a quieter, simple meal.
Spend around two hours at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa. The outdoor areas are free, but the exhibition galleries require admission, and popular installations—particularly timed-entry works—may depend on same-day availability or advance reservation. Check the museum’s opening days and ticket system before visiting; regular closure days can vary by exhibition schedule. Afterward, walk south-west through the Korinbo area toward the Nagamachi Samurai District, roughly 15–20 minutes, or take a short bus ride if your feet are tired.
The preserved earthen walls and narrow lanes of Nagamachi Samurai District make this a pleasant, unhurried afternoon rather than a checklist stop. Allow about 90 minutes, then visit Nomura-ke, usually open during daytime hours with admission around ¥550. Its compact garden, polished timber rooms, and water channels are the real highlights. If you arrive near closing, prioritise Nomura-ke first, since the residence generally shuts earlier than the surrounding streets.
Walk or take a short taxi from Nagamachi toward Katamachi for dinner at a traditional Kaga cuisine restaurant. Look for a seasonal set menu featuring local seafood, mountain vegetables, jibu-ni stew, and rice from Ishikawa; budget approximately ¥5,000–¥10,000 per person, with higher-end kaiseki considerably more. Restaurants in this area can fill quickly, so reserve in advance—especially if you want counter seating or a course menu. Keep the evening relaxed: you have an early bus departure tomorrow, and the route through Shirakawa-go is a long transfer day.
Allow roughly five to six hours door-to-door for the highway bus from Kanazawa to Takayama via Shirakawa-go, including the sightseeing stop, luggage handling, and time finding your onward bus. Because this is a reserved route, check the timetable carefully and keep your luggage compact; larger bags may need to remain in the luggage hold while you explore. Aim to arrive in Ogimachi in the late morning, when the mountain scenery is usually at its best and before the village becomes busiest.
Spend about 2½ hours walking through Shirakawa-go, following the lanes between the steeply pitched gassho-zukuri farmhouses rather than trying to see every building. The village is compact, but allow time for photographs and a simple lunch from a local soba or gohei-mochi stand. The open-air areas are generally free, while individual historic houses usually charge around ¥300–¥500; opening hours vary, so treat interiors as optional. Return to the bus stop with a comfortable margin—services are limited, and missing a reserved departure can disrupt the rest of the day.
After arriving in Takayama, walk into the old centre for Takayama Jinya, the former Edo-period government office. Allow about an hour to see the tatami rooms, administrative spaces, kitchens, and small garden; admission is typically around ¥440, with hours commonly running from morning until late afternoon, so check the closing time against your bus arrival. From there, it is only a few minutes to Sanmachi Suji, where dark wooden merchant houses and sake breweries line the narrow streets. Many shops close by early evening, but the streets become pleasantly quiet for a stroll after the daytime crowds thin.
Continue toward the Miyagawa River for a relaxed 45-minute riverside walk, crossing between the old town lanes and the quieter water’s edge. Finish with dinner at a Hida beef restaurant in Takayama Old Town—look for places serving grilled Hida beef, sukiyaki, or sushi-style beef, budgeting roughly ¥4,000–¥10,000 per person. Reservations are worthwhile for the better-known counters, particularly on busy evenings; otherwise, arrive early and keep a second nearby restaurant in mind. For tomorrow, reserve the JR Hida and onward Tokaido Shinkansen seats if you have not already done so, and plan to leave Takayama around 8:00–9:00 for the five- to five-and-a-half-hour journey to Tokyo.
Start at Miyagawa Morning Market around 8:00, while the stalls along the river are at their liveliest. Allow about 1½ hours to browse local vegetables, pickles, miso, sweets, and small regional crafts; it is a good place to buy compact souvenirs rather than anything bulky for the train. Most stalls generally wrap up around midday, and the market can be weather-dependent, so bring a light layer or umbrella in September. From central Takayama, it is an easy walk; otherwise, use the nearby Takayama Station area as your starting point.
Walk east into the Higashiyama Walking Course, allowing roughly two hours for the quiet temple lanes, wooded paths, and small gardens. This is one of the best places in Takayama to slow down after the busier market, with very few facilities along the route—carry water and use the restroom before leaving the market area. Around midday, continue to Hie Shrine, associated with the Takayama Festival and recognizable for its wooded approach and traditional architecture. Allow about 45 minutes, keeping voices low and checking any posted photography or worship guidance.
After a quick lunch near Takayama Station—look for a simple Hida beef set meal or soba—take the Sarubobo Bus to Hida Folk Village; the ride is roughly 10 minutes, with departures less frequent than an urban city bus. Allow about two hours to explore the thatched farmhouses, ponds, and hillside paths. The village is outdoors, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are worthwhile; September weather can still feel warm in the afternoon. Check the bus timetable before entering so you are not left waiting after the final circuit.
Return to Takayama Station and begin the Takayama–Tokyo transfer in the mid-afternoon, allowing about 5½–6½ hours door-to-door. The usual route is the JR Hida limited express to Nagoya, followed by the Tokaido Shinkansen to Tokyo; reserve both train segments if possible, and keep enough connection time at Nagoya to navigate platforms with luggage. Expect to reach your Tokyo hotel in the evening. For dinner, head to the Tokyo Station or Marunouchi side and choose a casual ramen restaurant such as Tokyo Ramen Street inside the station; allow about an hour and ¥1,000–¥2,000 per person. Check the restaurant’s last-order time before committing, as some counters close earlier than the station itself.
Check out after breakfast, allowing 2–3 hours door-to-door from your hotel to the airport and aim to arrive roughly three hours before your international departure. Confirm whether your flight leaves from Haneda Airport or Narita Airport before choosing your route: Haneda is usually quickest via the Keikyu Line or Tokyo Monorail, while Narita takes around 60–90 minutes by Narita Express, Keisei Skyliner, limousine bus, or taxi depending on your neighborhood and traffic. If you have heavy luggage, a limousine bus or a pre-booked taxi is easier; otherwise, rail is generally more reliable and cheaper.
Keep passports, flight details, valuables, and any duty-free items in your hand luggage. Japan’s major airports have plentiful convenience stores and straightforward signage, but allow extra time for airline bag drop, security, immigration, and possible queues. If you have shipped luggage ahead during the trip, verify the delivery timing before leaving your hotel.
Allow approximately 12–16 hours door-to-door for the journey to Melbourne, including the flight itself, airport procedures, and arrival formalities. On arrival in Melbourne, complete Australian immigration and biosecurity procedures before collecting your bags; declare food, plant material, animal products, and other restricted items rather than risking a fine. From Melbourne Airport, the SkyBus to Southern Cross is convenient for the city centre, while a taxi or rideshare is more practical if you are arriving tired or carrying substantial luggage.
No packing list attached yet.