Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 63 travelers

7-Day Adventure in Vietnam and Japan

Saturday, December 23: Hanoi, Vietnam

Start your adventure in Hanoi, the vibrant capital city of Vietnam. In the morning, explore the historic Old Quarter, with its narrow streets filled with shops and markets. Visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. In the afternoon, take a cyclo ride around the French Quarter, admiring the colonial architecture. As the evening sets in, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Night Market, trying local street food.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Estimated cost: $2, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
  • Cyclo ride in the French Quarter: Estimated cost: $10, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
  • Hanoi Night Market: Estimated cost: Varies, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Sunday, December 24: Halong Bay, Vietnam

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning limestone karsts. Spend the morning cruising through the emerald waters, exploring hidden caves and floating villages. Enjoy a seafood lunch on board. In the afternoon, go kayaking or swimming in the bay. As the evening approaches, witness a breathtaking sunset over the karst landscape.

  • Halong Bay Cruise: Estimated cost: $100, Estimated time spent: Full day
Monday, December 25: Hoi An, Vietnam

Travel to Hoi An, a charming ancient town on the central coast of Vietnam. In the morning, wander through the colorful streets lined with historic buildings and Japanese covered bridges. Visit local craft shops and witness traditional lantern making. In the afternoon, take a cycling tour to the nearby countryside and explore rice fields and local villages. As the evening sets in, experience the magical atmosphere of Hoi An's lantern-lit streets.

  • Hoi An Ancient Town: Estimated cost: $5, Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Cycling tour in Hoi An countryside: Estimated cost: $15, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Tokyo, Japan

Arrive in Tokyo, the bustling capital city of Japan. In the morning, visit the historic Asakusa district, home to Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street. Experience a traditional tea ceremony. In the afternoon, explore the trendy neighborhoods of Shibuya and Harajuku, known for their fashion and street culture. As the evening approaches, enjoy a delicious sushi dinner in the vibrant Tsukiji Fish Market.

  • Asakusa District: Estimated cost: Free, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Tea ceremony experience: Estimated cost: $20, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
  • Shibuya and Harajuku: Estimated cost: Varies, Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Tsukiji Fish Market: Estimated cost: Varies, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Mount Fuji, Japan

Embark on an adventurous day trip to Mount Fuji, Japan's iconic volcano. In the morning, take a scenic drive to the Fuji Five Lakes region and visit Lake Kawaguchi. Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and take a boat ride on the lake. In the afternoon, ascend to the 5th Station of Mount Fuji by bus and immerse yourself in the stunning alpine scenery. As the evening sets in, relax in a hot spring bath with views of Mount Fuji.

  • Lake Kawaguchi: Estimated cost: $10, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Mount Fuji 5th Station: Estimated cost: $20, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
  • Hot spring bath: Estimated cost: $30, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 28: Kyoto, Japan

Travel to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. In the morning, visit Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, and marvel at its stunning architecture and surrounding Zen gardens. Explore the historic district of Gion, known for its traditional tea houses and geisha culture. In the afternoon, visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of torii gates. As the evening sets in, experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

  • Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): Estimated cost: $5, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Gion District: Estimated cost: Free, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Fushimi Inari Taisha: Estimated cost: Free, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Japanese tea ceremony: Estimated cost: $30, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
Friday, December 29: Osaka, Japan

Conclude your adventure in Osaka, a vibrant city known for its modern architecture and delicious street food. In the morning, visit Osaka Castle, a majestic fortress surrounded by beautiful gardens. Explore the vibrant Dotonbori district, famous for its neon lights and bustling food stalls. In the afternoon, take a cruise along the scenic Osaka Bay and visit the iconic Universal Studios Japan. As the evening sets in, indulge in a traditional Okonomiyaki dinner.

  • Osaka Castle: Estimated cost: $8, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Dotonbori district: Estimated cost: Varies, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Osaka Bay cruise and Universal Studios Japan: Estimated cost: $100, Estimated time spent: Full day
  • Okonomiyaki dinner: Estimated cost: $15, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For an off the beaten path adventure, head to Ha Giang in northern Vietnam. This remote region offers stunning landscapes with towering limestone peaks and picturesque valleys. Explore the ethnic minority villages and embark on a multi-day trek through the rugged terrain. In Japan, Naoshima Island is a hidden gem for art enthusiasts. This small island in the Seto Inland Sea is known for its contemporary art museums and installations. Take a bike tour to explore the island's unique art-filled landscapes.

Check hotel and flight prices here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version