6-Day Nature Itinerary in Japan

Wednesday, August 23: Tokyo

Start your trip in Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital city. In the morning, visit the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant Harajuku district, known for its trendy shops and Meiji Shrine. In the evening, take a stroll along the Sumida River and enjoy the illuminated Tokyo Skytree.

• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: Estimated cost - ¥200, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Harajuku: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Sumida River & Tokyo Skytree: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Thursday, August 24: Hakone

Travel to Hakone, a picturesque town known for its hot springs and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Start your morning with a visit to Owakudani, an active volcanic zone where you can soak in natural hot springs and try black eggs boiled in sulfur. In the afternoon, take a scenic boat ride on Lake Ashi and visit the Hakone Shrine. End your day by relaxing in a traditional onsen.

• Owakudani: Estimated cost - ¥500, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Lake Ashi & Hakone Shrine: Estimated cost - ¥1000, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Traditional Onsen: Estimated cost - ¥2000, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Friday, August 25: Kyoto

Head to Kyoto, a city rich in culture and history. Begin your day with a visit to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene natural setting. In the afternoon, explore the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion) and the beautiful gardens of Ryoan-ji Temple. In the evening, wander through the geisha district of Gion and experience traditional tea houses.

• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Kinkaku-ji Temple: Estimated cost - ¥400, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Ryoan-ji Temple: Estimated cost - ¥500, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Gion District: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Saturday, August 26: Nara

Take a day trip to Nara, a city known for its friendly deer and ancient temples. Start your morning by visiting Nara Park, where you can interact with the friendly deer that roam freely. Explore the famous Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine. In the evening, wander through the charming streets of Naramachi.

• Nara Park: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Todai-ji Temple: Estimated cost - ¥600, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Kasuga Taisha Shrine: Estimated cost - ¥500, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Naramachi: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Sunday, August 27: Hiroshima

Travel to Hiroshima, a city that carries a powerful history. Begin your day with a visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, dedicated to the memory of the atomic bomb attack. Take a ferry to Miyajima Island in the afternoon and explore Itsukushima Shrine and the famous floating torii gate. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the island before returning to Hiroshima for the evening.

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum: Estimated cost - ¥200, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Miyajima Island: Estimated cost - Ferry - ¥180, Admission - ¥300, Estimated time spent - 4 hours

Monday, August 28: Nikko

End your trip in Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning shrines and natural beauty. Start your morning by visiting Toshogu Shrine, a masterpiece of Japanese architecture. Explore the beautiful Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji in the afternoon. End your day by taking a walk through the enchanting Nikko National Park.

• Toshogu Shrine: Estimated cost - ¥1300, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Kegon Falls: Estimated cost - ¥550, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Lake Chuzenji: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Nikko National Park: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature lovers, Japan offers many hidden gems and local favorites. Consider visiting Kamikochi in the Japanese Alps for breathtaking mountain scenery and hiking trails. Another option is the island of Yakushima, known for its ancient cedar forests and stunning waterfalls. If you have more time, explore the beautiful landscapes of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, which is famous for its national parks, hot springs, and wildlife.

For checking hotel and flight prices, click here.