The capital city of Japan and the most populous urban area in the world, Tokyo offers a mix of traditional and modern Japanese cultures. Start your day by exploring the Sensō-ji Temple, the oldest and one of the most significant temples in Tokyo. Visit the Tokyo Skytree for a panoramic view of the city, and then wander through the Shibuya Crossing, the busiest intersection in Japan. End your day by trying delicious sushi at a Sukiyabashi Jiro.
Experience the charm of traditional Japan in this ancient city filled with temples, gardens, and geishas. Start your day early by visiting the Kinkaku-ji, the famous Golden Pavilion. Proceed to Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, known for its thousands of brightly colored torii gates, and then end your day in Gion, the famous geisha district, for a glimpse of traditional Japanese culture.
Visit Japan's first permanent capital and home to some of Japan's oldest and largest temples. Start your day by visiting Tōdai-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the world's largest wooden building. While you're there, meet the Nara Deer, considered a national treasure, and feed them special deer crackers. Visit the Kasuga-taisha Shrine, famous for its 3,000 lanterns, and for lunch, try the delicious kakinoha-zushi, sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves.
Start with a moving visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the famous a-bomb dome. Next, take a short train and ferry ride to Miyajima Island and visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, one of the most photographed sites in Japan. End your day by trying okonomiyaki, Hiroshima's famous savoury pancake.
Known as the "Kitchen of Japan," Osaka is the perfect destination for foodies. Start by visiting the Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city's samurai heritage. Next, wander around Dōtonbori, Osaka's liveliest shopping and entertainment district. For lunch, try some melty-cheesy takoyaki, and for dinner try kushikatsu, deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Himeji Castle is one of the best-preserved castles from Japan's feudal era. Begin by walking through the maze-like castle structure and enjoying the panoramic views from the top. End the day by treating yourself to a delicious Wagyu beef meal in one of the local restaurants.
Known for its beautiful landscapes and delicious beef, Kobe is a hidden gem in Japan. Follow the aroma of steak and visit the Kobe Beef Museum and discover more about the delicious meat and how it's raised. Take a stroll through the Kitano-cho, a beautiful district where many foreign merchants and diplomats lived in the late 19th century. Enjoy your time and be sure to try the delicious Kobe beef during your stay.
Travel back in time with a visit to Takayama, a beautifully preserved traditional Japanese town in the heart of the Japan Alps. Afterward, take a bus ride to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site and picture-perfect rural Japan. End your day trying out the famous Hida beef for lunch and dinner.
Famous for its gardens, museums, and old teahouses, Kanazawa is a beautiful city that offers a step back in time. Start with a visit to the Kenroku-en Garden, one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan. Explore the traditional teahouses in Higashi-Chaya, discover local crafts in the Nishi-Chaya District and have a delicious dinner in one of the traditional Kaga Cuisine restaurants.
Located in the middle of Honshu, Nagano is surrounded by beautiful mountains and countless ski resorts. Home to the Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan's oldest and most famous temples, the city has plenty of historical and cultural sites to explore. Don't forget to visit a onsen, a traditional Japanese hot spring, and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding nature. End your day by trying soba, Nagano's famous buckwheat noodles.
One of the few remaining original castles in Japan, Matsumoto Castle is a beautiful and unique structure. Wander around the castle, take in the beautiful views and then explore the historic downtown area. Visit the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum, housing a collection of Japanese woodblock prints from Edo Period, and then try soba for lunch and have Hida beef for dinner.
Located less than an hour south of Tokyo, Kamakura is a perfect day trip destination. Start with a visit to the Great Buddha Statue, the third-largest sitting Buddha in Japan. Next, visit Hase-dera Temple, known as the Temple of Flowers, and end the day strolling down Komachi-dori Shopping Street, a lively pedestrian street filled with restaurants and shops.
A symbol of Japan and the highest mountain in the country, Mount Fuji is a must-visit destination when in Japan. Start your day by taking the Kachi Kachi Ropeway, a scenic cable car ride that takes you halfway up Mount Fuji. Next, visit the Oshino Hakkai Springs, a beautiful set of eight springs. Finally, catch the Sunset at Chureito Pagoda that offers a stunning view of Mount Fuji.
Take a day to explore the hip and trendy neighborhoods of Harajuku and Omotesando. Start by visiting Meiji Jingu Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken. Next, wander around Harajuku, Tokyo's epicenter for youth and Japanese street fashion, and enjoy a delicious lunch at a gyudon restaurant. Afterwards, explore the high-end boutiques, art galleries, and cafes along the tree-lined Omotesando avenue, and end your day with a stunning view of the city from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.
One of the most convenient ways to travel between destinations in Japan is by train. The Japan Rail Pass is