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7-Day Japan Itinerary

  1. Monday December 25: Tokyo
    30 minutes (15 miles) from Narita International Airport

    Start your Japan adventure in Tokyo, the bustling capital city. In the morning, visit the historic Asakusa district and explore the Senso-ji Temple. Enjoy traditional street food at Nakamise Shopping Street. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Shibuya Crossing and shop at the trendy Shibuya 109. In the evening, witness the dazzling lights of Tokyo from the Tokyo Skytree.

    • Senso-ji Temple: ¥0, 2 hours
    • Shibuya Crossing: ¥0, 3 hours
    • Tokyo Skytree: ¥3000, 2 hours
  2. Tuesday December 26: Kyoto
    2 hours and 30 minutes (225 miles) from Tokyo

    Take a bullet train to Kyoto, Japan's cultural heart. In the morning, explore the majestic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine with its famous torii gates. Discover the serene beauty of Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) in the afternoon. In the evening, experience a traditional tea ceremony and stroll through the historic Gion district, known for geisha sightings.

    • Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine: ¥0, 3 hours
    • Kinkaku-ji: ¥400, 2 hours
    • Tea Ceremony: ¥2000, 1 hour
  3. Wednesday December 27: Osaka
    1 hour (35 miles) from Kyoto

    Head to Osaka, known as the "Kitchen of Japan." Start your day by exploring the vibrant Dotonbori district with its iconic neon signs. Sample delicious street food and visit the bustling Kuromon Ichiba Market. In the afternoon, visit Osaka Castle for a glimpse into Japan's feudal past. Enjoy the evening views of the city from the Umeda Sky Building.

    • Dotonbori: ¥0, 3 hours
    • Kuromon Ichiba Market: ¥0, 2 hours
    • Osaka Castle: ¥600, 2 hours
    • Umeda Sky Building: ¥1000, 1 hour
  4. Thursday December 28: Hiroshima
    2 hours and 30 minutes (200 miles) from Osaka

    Take a day trip to Hiroshima, a city with a poignant history. In the morning, visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and pay respects at the Atomic Bomb Dome. Explore the informative Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. In the afternoon, take a ferry to Miyajima Island and marvel at the iconic Itsukushima Shrine.

    • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: ¥0, 3 hours
    • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum: ¥200, 2 hours
    • Miyajima Island: ¥1800 (round trip ferry), 3 hours
  5. Friday December 29: Nara
    2 hours (50 miles) from Osaka

    Explore the historic city of Nara, known for its friendly deer and ancient temples. In the morning, visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha. Stroll through Nara Park and interact with the adorable deer. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful gardens of Kasuga Taisha Shrine and admire the colorful lanterns.

    • Todai-ji Temple: ¥600, 2 hours
    • Nara Park: ¥0, 2 hours
    • Kasuga Taisha Shrine: ¥0, 2 hours
  6. Saturday December 30: Hakone
    2 hours (80 miles) from Tokyo

    Escape the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Hakone. In the morning, take a scenic boat ride across Lake Ashi and admire the iconic views of Mount Fuji. Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum in the afternoon, showcasing an impressive collection of contemporary art. Relax in a traditional onsen (hot spring) in the evening.

    • Lake Ashi Boat Ride: ¥1000, 2 hours
    • Hakone Open-Air Museum: ¥1600, 2 hours
    • Onsen Experience: ¥2000, 1 hour
  7. Sunday December 31: Tokyo
    2 hours (80 miles) from Hakone

    End your Japan journey in Tokyo. In the morning, visit the beautiful Meiji Shrine and stroll through the tranquil gardens. Explore the high-end shopping district of Ginza in the afternoon. As the year comes to a close, join the countdown festivities in Shibuya, where thousands gather to celebrate New Year's Eve.

    • Meiji Shrine: ¥0, 2 hours
    • Ginza: ¥0, 3 hours
    • New Year's Eve Countdown in Shibuya: ¥0, 3 hours

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the ancient capital of Kamakura, famous for its giant Buddha statue. Day trips to Nikko, known for its UNESCO World Heritage sites, and Yokohama, home to Japan's largest Chinatown, are also worth considering.

To get the most out of your money and have fun, consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited travel on most trains, including bullet trains. Opt for local eateries to experience authentic Japanese cuisine at affordable prices. Don't forget to try delicious ramen, sushi, and tempura!

Click here to check hotel and flight prices for your Japan adventure.

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