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7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Japan

Sunday, November 19: Tokyo

Start your trip in the bustling city of Tokyo. In the morning, visit the historic Asakusa district, home to the iconic Senso-ji Temple. Explore the Nakamise Shopping Street for traditional souvenirs. Afternoon can be spent at the Ueno Park, where you can enjoy beautiful gardens and visit the various museums. In the evening, head to Shibuya crossing, known for its vibrant atmosphere and neon lights.

  • Asakusa district: ¥0 (free), 3-4 hours
  • Nakamise Shopping Street: ¥0 (free), 1-2 hours
  • Ueno Park: ¥0 (free), 3-4 hours
  • Shibuya crossing: ¥0 (free), 1-2 hours
Monday, November 20: Kyoto

Take a morning train to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. Start with a visit to the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. In the afternoon, explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and visit the beautiful Tenryu-ji Temple. As the evening approaches, stroll through the traditional streets of Gion, Kyoto's famous geisha district.

  • Kinkaku-ji Temple: ¥400, 2-3 hours
  • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: ¥0 (free), 1-2 hours
  • Tenryu-ji Temple: ¥500, 1-2 hours
  • Gion district: ¥0 (free), 1-2 hours
Tuesday, November 21: Osaka

Head to Osaka in the morning, a city known for its delicious street food. Start the day by exploring the vibrant Dotonbori area, famous for its flashy neon signs and delicious local dishes. In the afternoon, visit Osaka Castle and enjoy panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. In the evening, take a stroll along the picturesque Dotonbori Canal.

  • Dotonbori: ¥0 (free), 2-3 hours
  • Osaka Castle: ¥600, 2-3 hours
  • Dotonbori Canal: ¥0 (free), 1-2 hours
Wednesday, November 22: Hiroshima

Take a day trip to Hiroshima to learn about its poignant history. Start by visiting the Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome, reminders of the devastating atomic bombing during World War II. In the afternoon, take a short ferry ride to Miyajima Island and explore its famous Itsukushima Shrine and the iconic floating torii gate. Return to Hiroshima in the evening.

  • Peace Memorial Park: ¥0 (free), 2-3 hours
  • Atomic Bomb Dome: ¥0 (free), 1-2 hours
  • Miyajima Island (including ferry): ¥200, 3-4 hours
  • Itsukushima Shrine: ¥300, 1-2 hours
Thursday, November 23: Nara

Visit Nara, a city known for its friendly deer and ancient temples. In the morning, explore Nara Park and get up close with the friendly deer that roam freely. Visit Todai-ji Temple to see the impressive Great Buddha statue. In the afternoon, wander through the peaceful Isuien Garden and explore the Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Return to Kyoto in the evening.

  • Nara Park: ¥0 (free), 2-3 hours
  • Todai-ji Temple: ¥600, 1-2 hours
  • Isuien Garden: ¥900, 1-2 hours
  • Kasuga Taisha Shrine: ¥0 (free), 1-2 hours
Friday, November 24: Hakone

Take a day trip to Hakone, a scenic area known for its hot springs and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Start your day with a visit to the Hakone Open-Air Museum, showcasing a collection of outdoor sculptures. Take a relaxing boat ride on Lake Ashi and then experience the breathtaking Hakone Ropeway for panoramic views. In the evening, unwind in a traditional hot spring (onsen).

  • Hakone Open-Air Museum: ¥1,600, 2-3 hours
  • Lake Ashi boat ride: ¥1,000, 1-2 hours
  • Hakone Ropeway: ¥1,500, 1-2 hours
  • Onsen experience: ¥1,000, 1-2 hours
Saturday, November 25: Tokyo

End your trip by exploring more of Tokyo. Visit the vibrant Harajuku district in the morning, known for its unique fashion and street art. In the afternoon, explore the trendy neighborhood of Shimokitazawa, filled with vintage shops and cozy cafes. In the evening, experience the dazzling lights of Tokyo's Akihabara district, a haven for anime and gaming enthusiasts.

  • Harajuku district: ¥0 (free), 2-3 hours
  • Shimokitazawa: ¥0 (free), 2-3 hours
  • Akihabara district: ¥0 (free), 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. Wander through the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in the early morning to avoid the crowds. In Tokyo, explore the quaint neighborhoods of Yanaka and Shimokita for a taste of traditional Japanese culture. Don't forget to try local street food, such as takoyaki in Osaka and okonomiyaki in Hiroshima.

Check hotel and flight prices on Kayak.

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