Start your Japan trip by visiting the Tokyo Imperial Palace, the official residence of the Emperor of Japan. The palace sits in the middle of Tokyo and is surrounded by stunning parks and scenic moats. The East Gardens and museums are open to the public.
Visit the Sensoji Temple, which is Tokyo's oldest temple located in the district of Asakusa. The entrance to the temple is via Nakamise Dori, a popular shopping street that sells souvenirs and traditional Japanese snacks. Early morning visits are less crowded.
Take a day trip to the iconic Mount Fuji, Japan's highest peak. The mountain offers breathtaking views and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An ideal time to visit is during late July and August for climbing, or in winter when the mountain is capped with snow.
Explore the Himeji Castle, widely considered the finest surviving example of prototypical Japanese castle architecture. The castle dates back to the 17th century and is located in the picturesque city of Himeji. The castle has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Take a day trip to Kyoto, known as the cultural heart of Japan. Visit historic landmarks such as the Fushimi Inari Taisha, a stunning shrine from the 8th century, or the Kinkaku-ji temple, best known for its beautiful gold leaf facade. End the day by strolling through the geisha district of Gion.
If you have more time, consider taking a side trip to Hiroshima and visiting the Peace Memorial Park, a sobering reminder of the deadly atomic bomb explosion. For families with kids, Disneyland and DisneySea are popular theme parks in Tokyo. However, if you have less time than 5 days, consider skipping Himeji Castle and spending more time in Tokyo and Kyoto.