Visit the Sensō-ji Temple, a 7th-century Buddhist temple located in Asakusa. Stroll along Nakamise Street, a shopping street lined with traditional Japanese stalls. End the day at Tsukiji Fish Market, the largest fish market in the world.
Experience modern Japanese culture in Harajuku, where you can visit quirky fashion boutiques, souvenir shops, and themed cafés. Continue to Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken. End the day at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, an expansive garden perfect for cherry blossom viewing.
Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its wooden stage that offers panoramic views of Kyoto. Walk through Higashiyama District, a preserved historic district lined with traditional wooden houses, shops, and teahouses. End the day with a traditional kaiseki dinner, a multi-course meal that showcases seasonal ingredients and Japanese culinary techniques.
Explore the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple, a Zen Buddhist temple known for its gilded pavilion set amidst a tranquil pond and garden. End the day with a visit to Gion, Kyoto's famous geisha district, where you can spot geiko and maiko walking in their traditional attire.
Visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses Japan's largest bronze Buddha statue. Walk through Nara Park, where you can feed friendly wild deer. End the day at Kasuga-taisha Shrine, a Shinto shrine with thousands of stone lanterns lining the way.
Discover the poignant history of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which commemorates the atomic bomb that devastated the city during WW2. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which displays artifacts and personal accounts related to the bombing. End the day with a walk through Miyajima Island, known for its iconic floating torii gate that seems to float on the sea during high tide.
Indulge in Osaka's vibrant food scene by visiting Dōtonbori, a lively street with neon lights and restaurants serving local specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Visit the Osaka Castle, a historic castle built in the 16th century that played a major role in the reunification of Japan. End the day with a visit to Umeda Sky Building, a unique skyscraper with an observation deck that offers stunning views of Osaka.
Explore the Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is considered Japan's most spectacular castle. Visit the Koko-en Garden, a beautiful Japanese garden located next to Himeji Castle. End the day with a visit to Engyō-ji Temple, a temple complex located on top of Mount Shosha that offers fantastic views of Himeji and the surrounding areas.
End your trip with a stroll through Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. Visit the teamLab Borderless digital art museum, an immersive exhibition featuring digital projections, light installations, and interactive art. End the day with a dazzling night view of the city from Tokyo Tower.
If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto, or the Mount Fuji area. If you have less time, consider skipping the Engyō-ji Temple day trip from Himeji.