Start your Japan trip in Tokyo, the country’s bustling capital. Visit the Tsukiji Fish Market, one of the largest fish markets in the world, and try some sushi fresh from the sea. Continue to the Sensoji Temple, the oldest and most famous temple in Tokyo, and experience traditional Japanese culture. End the day sampling delicious street food at the Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest and most iconic intersections in the world.
Embark on a day trip to Mt. Fuji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its iconic snow-capped peak. Start with a visit to the Fuji Visitor Center to learn about the mountain’s history, followed by a ride on the Kachi Kachi Ropeway for stunning views of the surrounding countryside. End the day with a relaxing soak in a traditional onsen hot spring.
Take the bullet train to Kyoto, a city famous for its temples and gardens. Begin at the Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), a stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf. Next, explore the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. End the day with a stroll around the charming streets of the Gion District, known for its geisha and teahouses.
Travel to Osaka, the culinary capital of Japan. Start at the Dotonbori district, known for its neon lights and street food stalls. Next, visit the striking Osaka Castle, built by shogun Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the 16th century. End the day with a visit to the Umeda Sky Building, with panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
Take a day trip to Hiroshima, a city known for its history and peace memorials. Begin with the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb. Next, visit the Hiroshima Castle, a 16th-century fortress rebuilt after the war. End the day with a stroll around the Miyajima Island, famous for its floating Torii Gate and friendly deer.
Take another day trip, this time to Nagasaki, a coastal city famous as the site of the second atomic bomb. Start at the Nagasaki Peace Park, which features a statue of a man with outstretched arms, symbolizing world peace. Next, visit the Glover Garden, a park featuring Western-style mansions from the early 20th century. End the day with a relaxing soak at a natural hot spring (onsen).
Travel to Nara, a city famous for its ancient temples and friendly deer. Start at Todaiji Temple, a grand temple featuring a massive bronze Buddha statue. Next, visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of lanterns. End the day at Nara Park, where the friendly deer roam free.
Return to Tokyo for some last-minute sightseeing and shopping. Start at the Meiji Shrine, located in a tranquil forest in the middle of the city. Next, explore the trendy Harajuku District, known for its fashion and street food. End the day with some shopping in Ginza, Tokyo’s high-end shopping district.
Japan has an extensive public transportation system, including trains, subways, buses, and taxis. The JR Pass is a popular option for travelers visiting multiple cities as it offers unlimited travel on JR trains throughout Japan. However, it is important to note that the JR Pass is not valid on all trains, such as the Nozomi Shinkansen. In addition, many cities have their own local transport passes that may be more convenient and cost-effective.
Estimated costs for transportation:
If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to the picturesque village of Shirakawa-go to see the traditional thatched-roof houses. If you have less time, consider skipping Hiroshima and Nagasaki and spending more time in Tokyo or Kyoto.
Tokyo has two major airports: Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT). Haneda is closer to the city center (about 30 minutes by train) and mainly handles domestic and regional flights, while Narita is further away (about 1 hour by train) and handles more international flights. Osaka has two airports: Kansai (KIX) and Itami (ITM). Kansai is further away from the city center (about 1 hour by train) but handles more international flights, while Itami is closer (about 30 minutes by train) and mainly handles domestic flights.