7-Day Japan Itinerary for July 2023

1. Day 1: Tokyo
   20 minutes (9.5 miles) from Narita International Airport

   Start the morning off by visiting the famous Tsukiji Fish Market and indulging in some fresh sushi. Then head to Sensoji Temple in Asakusa to experience traditional Japanese culture and architecture. In the afternoon, explore the trendy Harajuku district and visit Meiji Shrine. End the night by dining at a local izakaya.

2. Day 2: Kyoto
   2 hours and 20 minutes (310 miles) from Tokyo

   Begin the day at Fushimi Inari-taisha, a stunning Shinto shrine with thousands of torii gates. After lunch, explore the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple and its beautiful Golden Pavilion. End the day with a visit to the bamboo groves in Arashiyama and a relaxing stroll along the river.

3. Day 3: Osaka
   40 minutes (31.4 miles) from Kyoto

   Start the morning off with a visit to Osaka Castle and its surrounding park. Then head to the Dotonbori district for some delicious street food and shopping. In the evening, see a performance at the National Bunraku Theater, a traditional puppet theater.

4. Day 4: Nara
   1 hour and 10 minutes (28.5 miles) from Osaka

   Visit the famous Todaiji Temple and its massive Buddha statue. Then head to Nara Park to see the friendly deer and Kasuga-taisha Shrine. In the evening, try some local sake at a nearby brewery.

5. Day 5: Hiroshima
   3 hours and 30 minutes (284 miles) from Nara

   Begin the day at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum to learn about the city's past. Then visit the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, known for its iconic torii gate. End the night by trying some Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner.

6. Day 6: Sapporo
   2 hours and 20 minutes (620 miles) from Hiroshima

   Start the day by exploring the beautiful Odori Park and Sapporo TV Tower. Then visit the Sapporo Beer Museum to learn about the brewing process and enjoy some samples. In the evening, try some delicious seafood at the Nijo Market.

7. Day 7: Tokyo
   1 hour and 30 minutes (540 miles) from Sapporo

   End the trip by visiting the iconic Tokyo Tower and taking in the panoramic views of the city. Then spend the afternoon shopping in the trendy Shibuya district and trying some Japanese sweets. End the night with a delicious bowl of ramen from a local restaurant.

Recommendations

Consider taking a day trip to Mount Fuji for some breathtaking views. Also, try to catch a traditional Japanese tea ceremony or kabuki performance if possible. If you have extra time, consider visiting the historic city of Kanazawa or the hot springs in Hakone.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Tsukiji Fish Market (2 hours, $20)
• Sensoji Temple (1 hour, free)
• Meiji Shrine (1.5 hours, free)
• Fushimi Inari-taisha (2 hours, free)
• Kinkaku-ji Temple (1 hour, $5)
• Osaka Castle (2 hours, $8)
• Nara Park (2 hours, free)
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum (2 hours, $10)
• Itsukushima Shrine (1 hour, $5)
• Odori Park (1 hour, free)
• Sapporo Beer Museum (2 hours, $10)
• Tokyo Tower (1.5 hours, $10)
• Shibuya Shopping (2 hours, $50)
• Total Estimated Costs ($118)