Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: Explore the stunning landscaped gardens and see the cherry blossoms (early April). Take a picnic!
Owakudani: Take the Hakone Ropeway to see a lunar-like landscape created by volcanic activity. Don't miss the black eggs boiled in sulphuric hot springs; they add 7 years to your life!
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): A stunning Zen Temple with a gold leaf-covered pavilion reflecting in a tranquil pond. Go early as it tends to get crowded.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Take a stroll through a picturesque grove of towering bamboo plants. You'll feel like you're in another world.
Peace Memorial Park: Visit the Atomic Bomb Dome and the museum and learn about the tragic history of the bombing. Take a moment to reflect.
Miyajima Island: Take a ferry to the island and hike up Mount Misen for panoramic views. Visit the famous Itsukushima Shrine and see the iconic "floating" torii gate at high tide.
Dotonbori: Osaka's liveliest and most colourful district, where you can try Osaka's famous street food and get a taste of the city's culture.
Nara Park: Interact with the friendly, doe-eyed residents who wander around the park. Don’t forget to look for the 15-meter Buddha statue at Todai-ji Temple.
Osaka Castle: A six-story castle with an observation deck, a museum with artifacts and interactive displays, and beautiful gardens. A perfect finale to your adventure trip.
If you have more time, you can explore other parts of Tokyo such as Shibuya or Harajuku. You could also extend your adventure and hike the Kumano Kodo trail, which starts in Kyoto and leads through the Kii mountain range ending at Kumano Sanzan in Wakayama.
If you have less time, you can skip Miyajima Island or Nara Park, but be sure to explore the highlights in each location, as they are not to be missed.