Start your day by visiting the Tsukiji Outer Market, where you can find fresh fish and Japanese foods for breakfast. Next, head to the Imperial Palace, a beautiful park-like area in the center of Tokyo that houses the Emperor's palace. End your day with a visit to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a stunning garden and park that offers scenic views of cherry blossoms and the city skyline.
Take a day trip to Kamakura, a peaceful coastal town filled with temples and historic landmarks. Visit Kotoku-in Temple to see the famous Great Buddha of Kamakura, a bronze statue that stands at over 40 feet tall. Then, visit the beautiful Hasedera Temple and its gardens. End your day by relaxing at Kamakura Beach.
Travel to Kyoto, a city known for its beautiful temples, gardens, and traditional architecture. Start with a visit to the Kinkaku-ji Temple, a stunning gold-leaf covered temple that was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, visit the Gion District, a neighborhood known for its traditional tea houses and geishas. End your day by strolling through the peaceful Philosopher's Path, lined with cherry blossom trees.
Take a day trip to Osaka, a lively city known for its food and nightlife. Start by visiting Osaka Castle, a historic landmark that offers panoramic views of the city. Next, head to Dotonbori, a bustling street with neon lights, restaurants, and shops. End your day at Kuromon Ichiba Market, where you can find delicious local food.
Travel to Hiroshima, a city known for its tragic history and beautiful landmarks. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb. Next, head to the Shukkei-en Garden, a beautiful Japanese-style garden with a pond and tea house. End your day with a visit to Miyajima Island, known for its iconic floating torii gate.
Travel to Nagoya, a city known for its historic landmarks and modern museums. Start with a visit to Nagoya Castle, a beautiful castle with a museum and gardens. Next, head to the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, showcasing the history and advancements of the Toyota company. End your day at the Osu Kannon Temple, a Buddhist temple in the middle of a bustling shopping district.
End your trip back in Tokyo exploring the bustling district of Shibuya, famous for the Shibuya Crossing and its shopping, dining, and nightlife. Visit the Tokyo Skytree, a popular observation tower with a panoramic view of the city. End your day by experiencing traditional Japanese entertainment, such as sumo wrestling or a tea ceremony.
Travelers can take the bullet train, Shinkansen, to get around Japan quickly and efficiently. Passes, such as the JR Pass, can be purchased in advance to save money. City travel can be made easier with a prepaid transportation card like the Suica or PASMO card, which can be used on buses, subways, and trains. Taxis are also available but can be expensive in larger cities.
If you have more time: Add a visit to Nara to feed the friendly deer and see the Todai-ji Temple. For a unique experience, visit the Snow Monkey Park in Nagano, where you can see wild Japanese macaques bathing in hot springs.
If you have less time: Consider skipping Osaka and Nagoya to spend more time in other cities.
The main international airport in Japan is Narita International Airport (NRT), located about 60 km (37 miles) from Tokyo. Another airport is Haneda Airport (HND), located much closer to Tokyo, about 20 km (12 miles) from the city center. It serves many domestic flights and some international flights.