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7-Day Itinerary for Japan

Friday, September 1: Arrive in Tokyo

Start your trip in Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan. In the morning, visit the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa and explore the surrounding traditional streets. Afternoon can be spent at the vibrant shopping district of Shibuya, where you can witness the famous Shibuya Crossing. In the evening, head to the neon-lit streets of Shinjuku and visit the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a panoramic view of the city.

  • Senso-ji Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Shibuya Crossing: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Saturday, September 2: Explore Kyoto

Take a bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto. In the morning, visit the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Afterward, explore the traditional streets of Higashiyama district and visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple for breathtaking views of the city. In the evening, experience the serene beauty of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

  • Kinkaku-ji Temple: Estimated cost - ¥400 (approximately $4), Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Estimated cost - ¥400 (approximately $4), Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Sunday, September 3: Visit Osaka

Take a day trip to Osaka, known for its vibrant street food and lively atmosphere. In the morning, explore the historic Osaka Castle and its beautiful gardens. Afternoon can be spent in the bustling Dotonbori district, famous for its delicious street food and colorful neon signs. In the evening, enjoy a cruise along the Dotonbori River for a different perspective of the city.

  • Osaka Castle: Estimated cost - ¥600 (approximately $6), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Dotonbori: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Dotonbori River Cruise: Estimated cost - ¥900 (approximately $9), Time spent - 1 hour
Monday, September 4: Explore Hiroshima

Take a day trip to Hiroshima, a city with a powerful history. In the morning, visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, including the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome and the Peace Memorial Museum. Afterward, take a ferry to Miyajima Island and explore the Itsukushima Shrine and its famous floating torii gate. In the evening, enjoy the stunning sunset view from Mount Misen.

  • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Miyajima Island: Estimated cost - Ferry - ¥360 (approximately $3.60), Time spent - 4-5 hours
  • Mount Misen: Estimated cost - Cable car - ¥1,800 (approximately $18), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Tuesday, September 5: Discover Nara

Take a day trip to Nara, a city known for its friendly wild deer and ancient temples. In the morning, visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue. Explore the Nara Park and enjoy feeding the deer. Afternoon can be spent at Kasuga Taisha, a beautiful Shinto shrine surrounded by serene forest. In the evening, stroll through the charming streets of Naramachi.

  • Todai-ji Temple: Estimated cost - ¥600 (approximately $6), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Nara Park: Estimated cost - Free (deer crackers available for purchase), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Kasuga Taisha: Estimated cost - ¥500 (approximately $5), Time spent - 1-2 hours
Wednesday, September 6: Experience Hakone

Take a day trip to Hakone, a picturesque town near Mount Fuji. In the morning, enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Ashi and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Afterward, visit the Owakudani volcanic valley and try the famous black sulfur eggs. In the evening, relax in an onsen (hot spring) and enjoy the traditional Japanese hospitality.

  • Lake Ashi boat ride: Estimated cost - ¥1,000 (approximately $10), Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Owakudani: Estimated cost - Cable car - ¥1,080 (approximately $11), Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Onsen experience: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Thursday, September 7: Return to Tokyo

Return to Tokyo for your last day in Japan. In the morning, explore the trendy neighborhood of Harajuku and visit the iconic Meiji Shrine. Afternoon can be spent shopping in the upscale district of Ginza. In the evening, indulge in delicious street food at the vibrant food alleys of Shinjuku's Omoide Yokocho.

  • Harajuku: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Meiji Shrine: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Ginza: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Omoide Yokocho: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Tokyo, don't miss out on visiting the peaceful neighborhood of Yanaka. Explore the narrow streets lined with traditional houses, temples, and local shops. Another hidden gem is the beautiful island of Naoshima, known for its art museums and outdoor sculptures. It's a perfect destination for art enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Check hotel and flight prices on Kayak.

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