Start your trip by immersing yourself in the vibrant city atmosphere of Tokyo. In the morning, visit Meiji Shrine, a serene Shinto shrine nestled in a forested area. Afterward, explore Harajuku, known for its unique fashion and quirky shops. In the afternoon, head to the historic Asakusa district and visit Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple. As the evening sets in, take a stroll through the bustling streets of Shibuya and experience the famous Shibuya Crossing.
Meiji Shrine: Entrance is free, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Harajuku: Free to explore, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Asakusa (Senso-ji): Free to enter, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Shibuya Crossing: Free to visit, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Kaila, located in Harajuku. This cozy cafe offers a variety of vegetarian options such as their fluffy pancakes and avocado toast. The average cost for a meal is about 1500 yen per person.
For lunch, try T's Restaurant in Tokyo Station. This vegan restaurant specializes in delicious, plant-based ramen dishes. With its convenient location, you can enjoy a hearty bowl of ramen before continuing your day of exploration. The average cost for a meal is about 1000 yen per person.
For dinner, visit Ain Soph Ripple in Shinjuku. This trendy vegan restaurant offers a diverse menu with dishes like vegan burgers, pasta, and soups. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a perfect place to unwind after a long day. The average cost for a meal is about 2500 yen per person.
Tuesday, September 19: Cultural Kyoto
Take a bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto in the morning. Start your day by exploring the beautiful Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and its surrounding gardens. In the afternoon, visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and enjoy a peaceful walk through the towering bamboo stalks. Complete your day by visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates.
Kinkaku-ji: Entrance fee around 500 yen, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Free to visit, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Fushimi Inari Taisha: Free to enter, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
In Kyoto, start your day with a delicious vegetarian breakfast at Cafe Bibliotic Hello! Enjoy their assortment of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 800 yen per person.
For lunch, head to Veg Out Kyoto, a charming restaurant known for its creative vegetarian dishes. Don't miss their mouthwatering tofu curry and refreshing smoothies. Average cost for a meal is about 1,200 yen per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Aeon Mall Kyoto Katsuragawa. This food court offers a variety of vegetarian options from different cuisines, such as Indian, Italian, and Japanese. Average cost for a meal is about 1,000 yen per person.
Wednesday, September 20: Serene Nara
Take a day trip from Kyoto to Nara, known for its friendly deer and ancient temples. Begin your day by visiting Todai-ji, home to the world's largest bronze Buddha statue. Explore the Nara Park and interact with the deer roaming freely. In the afternoon, visit Kasuga Taisha, a beautiful Shinto shrine surrounded by lush greenery. Before heading back to Kyoto, wander through the quaint streets of Naramachi.
Todai-ji: Entrance fee around 600 yen, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Naramachi: Free to explore, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Thursday, September 21: Historical Hiroshima
Take a bullet train from Kyoto to Hiroshima in the morning. Begin your day by visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, dedicated to the memory of the atomic bombing in 1945. Explore the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome and reflect on the city's resilience. In the afternoon, take a short ferry ride to Miyajima Island and visit Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its floating torii gate.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum: Entrance fee around 200 yen, estimated time: 3-4 hours
Atomic Bomb Dome: Free to visit, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Itsukushima Shrine: Free to enter, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Friday, September 22: Cultural Osaka
Take a bullet train from Hiroshima to Osaka in the morning. Start your day by visiting Osaka Castle, a magnificent landmark surrounded by beautiful gardens. Afterward, explore the vibrant Dotonbori area, known for its vibrant street food and nightlife. In the afternoon, visit the peaceful grounds of Shitenno-ji, one of Japan's oldest temples. Complete your day by taking a ride on the iconic Tempozan Ferris Wheel for panoramic views of the city.
Take a bullet train from Osaka to Hakone in the morning. Begin your day by exploring the famous Hakone Open-Air Museum and marvel at the outdoor sculptures set against the backdrop of stunning natural scenery. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Ashi and enjoy the picturesque views of Mt. Fuji. Complete your day with a soothing visit to one of Hakone's traditional hot springs (onsen).
Take a train from Hakone to Yokohama in the morning. Begin your day by visiting the futuristic Minato Mirai district and enjoy panoramic views from the Landmark Tower Observatory. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Chinatown and savor vegetarian delicacies. Visit the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, a cultural and shopping complex. Finally, take a relaxing walk along the Yokohama waterfront and enjoy the beautiful views.
Yokohama Chinatown: Free to explore, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse: Free to enter, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Yokohama Waterfront: Free to visit, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
One of the hidden gems in Japan is the small town of Takayama. Known for its preserved Edo-era streets and traditional wooden houses, Takayama offers a glimpse into old Japan. Don't miss the morning market and the Hida Folk Village, where you can learn about the local culture and history. Another local favorite is Kamakura, a coastal town with numerous temples and shrines, including the iconic Great Buddha statue.