8-Day Relaxation Itinerary for Tokyo and Kyoto

1. Day 1: Tokyo Imperial Palace
   Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour (9.5 miles)

   Explore the beautiful gardens and the iconic palace. Witness the changing of the guard ceremony.

2. Day 2: Tokyo Skytree
   Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour (7.5 miles)

   Visit the world's tallest tower for the stunning views of the city from the observation deck.

3. Day 3: Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
   Estimated Travel Time: 2.5 hours via Shinkansen (116 miles)

   Walk among the towering bamboo stalks and breathe in the tranquil air of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

4. Day 4: Kinkaku-ji Temple
   Estimated Travel Time: 30 minutes (5 miles)

   Marvel at the shimmering gold leaf of the temple, surrounded by picturesque gardens and calm ponds.

5. Day 5: Fushimi Inari Taisha
   Estimated Travel Time: 30 minutes (5 miles)

   Take a hike through the thousands of bright orange torii gates and get a spiritual experience at the shrine.

6. Day 6: Nara Park
   Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour (30 miles)

   Meet the friendly deer, explore the grand temples and appreciate the natural beauty of the park.

7. Day 7: Gion District
   Estimated Travel Time: 30 minutes (2 miles)

   Stroll through the historic streets of Gion, spot geishas and enjoy a traditional Japanese meal.

8. Day 8: Sensoji Temple
   Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour (7 miles)

   Discover one of Tokyo's most prominent shrines, surrounded by enticing souvenir shops and food stalls.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Tokyo Imperial Palace (2-3 hours, Free)
• Tokyo Skytree (2-3 hours, £28.50)
• Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (1-2 hours, Free)
• Kinkaku-ji Temple (1-2 hours, £3)
• Fushimi Inari Taisha (1-2 hours, Free)
• Nara Park (2-3 hours, Free)
• Gion District (2-3 hours, Cost varies based on Restaurant choice)
• Sensoji Temple (1-2 hours, Free)
Total Estimated Costs: £31.50

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, you can visit the Tsukiji fish market, Meiji Shrine, or go shopping in Ginza in Tokyo. In Kyoto, take a stroll in the Philosopher's Path, visit the Kiyomizu-dera temple or see the iconic Fushimi Sake district. If you have less time, you can skip some of the attractions mentioned. Keep in mind that some popular attractions such as the Nishiki Market and the Fushimi Inari Taisha are crowded, so try to visit them early in the morning.