10-Day Itinerary for City Lovers in Japan

• Day 1: Tokyo - Start with exploring the energetic city of Tokyo, visit the iconic Tokyo Tower, indulge in the world-famous sushi at Tsukiji Market, and wander through the lively streets of Shibuya.
• Day 2: Tokyo - Take a morning stroll at the peaceful Meiji Shrine, admire the art at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, and take a serene boat ride at Chidorigafuchi Moat.
• Day 3: Kyoto - Travel to the cultural city of Kyoto and explore the magnificent Kiyomizu-dera temple, enjoy a traditional tea ceremony at Uji Tea House, and delight your taste buds with some authentic Japanese cuisine in Gion District.
• Day 4: Kyoto - Visit the picturesque Fushimi Inari Shrine, discover the impressive Nijo Castle, and end your day with a peaceful boat ride at Kamo River.
• Day 5: Osaka - Head to the bustling city of Osaka and tour the Sakai Knife Museum, visit the historically rich Osaka Castle, and explore the mouth-watering street food at the Dotonbori District.
• Day 6: Nara - Take a day trip to the ancient city of Nara and visit the largest bronze statue of Buddha at Todai-ji Temple, walk amongst the tranquil Deer Park, and enjoy a scenic hike at Mount Wakakusa.
• Day 7: Hiroshima - Witness the unforgettable historical city of Hiroshima, visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome, and end the day with some mouth-watering Okonomiyaki at Okonomimura.
• Day 8: Miyajima - Take a ferry to the mystical island of Miyajima and witness the breathtaking Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic floating torii gate, hike up to the top of Misen Mountain, and have a calming stroll along the Momijidani Park.
• Day 9: Sapporo - Travel to the vibrant city of Sapporo, tour the iconic Sapporo Beer Museum, enjoy some local delicacies at Susukino Nightlife District, and relax at the soothing Makomanai Park.
• Day 10: Tokyo - Return to Tokyo and tour the magnificent Imperial Palace, indulge in some shopping at the bustling Ginza District, and end your trip with some fun at the Odaiba District.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Tokyo Tower (2-3 hours, 1000 yen)
• Tsukiji Market (2-3 hours, 2000 yen)
• Meiji Shrine (1-2 hours, free admission)
• National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (2-3 hours, 620 yen)
• Chidorigafuchi Moat (1-2 hours, free admission)
• Kiyomizu-dera (2-3 hours, 400 yen)
• Uji Tea House (1-2 hours, 1000 yen)
• Gion District (2-3 hours, free admission)
• Fushimi Inari Shrine (2-3 hours, free admission)
• Nijo Castle (1-2 hours, 600 yen)
• Kamo River Boat Ride (1-2 hours, 2000 yen)
• Sakai Knife Museum (1-2 hours, 500 yen)
• Osaka Castle (2-3 hours, 600 yen)
• Dotonbori District (2-3 hours, cost varies)
• Todai-ji Temple (2-3 hours, 600 yen)
• Deer Park (1-2 hours, free admission)
• Mount Wakakusa (2-3 hours, free admission)
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum (2-3 hours, 200 yen)
• Atomic Bomb Dome (1-2 hours, free admission)
• Okonomimura (1-2 hours, cost varies)
• Itsukushima Shrine (1-2 hours, 300 yen)
• Misen Mountain (2-3 hours, 1800 yen)
• Momijidani Park (1-2 hours, free admission)
• Sapporo Beer Museum (2-3 hours, 700 yen)
• Susukino Nightlife District (2-3 hours, cost varies)
• Makomanai Park (1-2 hours, free admission)
• Total Estimated Costs (including transportation): $2000 (approx.)

Transportation

Japan's railway system is known for its punctuality, efficiency, and extensive network. The Japan Rail Pass is a cost-effective option for travelers who plan on visiting multiple cities. Local trains, buses, and taxis are also readily available for shorter distances. Prices can range anywhere from $2 for a single subway ride to $100 for a long-distance train ride. Travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation and the distance traveled.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the snowy slopes of Hokkaido or the tropical paradise of Okinawa. If you have less time, consider skipping Hiroshima and Miyajima or combining Osaka and Nara into one day trip. Also, don't forget to try the delectable ramen, sushi, and matcha delicacies that Japan has to offer!