Start your trip in Tokyo to experience its unique blend of traditional and modern culture. Begin by visiting the Sensō-ji Temple, Japan's oldest and most significant ancient Buddhist temple. Explore the Asakusa district and stroll through the Nakamise shopping street to find charming souvenirs. Finish the day with a view of the city from the Tokyo Skytree.
Visit Tsukiji Fish Market, one of the world's largest and busiest fish markets. After, go to the Ginza Shopping District, Tokyo's most famous upmarket shopping, dining, and entertainment district. End the day at the Shibuya Crossing, the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world.
Take a day trip to Kamakura, a small coastal town known for its historical temples and shrines. Start by visiting the Kōtoku-in Temple and see the famous Great Buddha. Visit other temples, such as Hasedera Temple and Kenchoji Temple. End the day at the Enoshima Island.
Take a day trip to Mount Fuji, Japan's highest mountain, and its surrounding attractions. Visit Fuji Five Lakes, which offer stunning views of Mount Fuji. Take a scenic drive to Fifth Station, the highest point accessible by car. Experience some traditional Japanese culture by spending an evening in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn.
Travel to Kyoto, Japan's cultural capital. Start with a visit to the Golden Pavilion and experience its breathtaking beauty. Explore other temples, such as the Ryoanji Temple and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. End the day with a relaxing walk through the Gion district to experience its traditional atmosphere and enjoy an evening of local Japanese cuisine.
Visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, one of Japan's most important Shinto shrines. Walk through the thousands of torii gates to reach the summit of Inari Mountain. In the afternoon, visit the Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Temple of the Golden Pavilion.
Take a trip to Nara, Japan's first capital before Kyoto. Visit the Nara Park and feed the friendly deer. Explore the Todai-ji Temple, which houses one of Japan's largest bronze statues of Buddha.
Take a day trip to Hiroshima to learn about Japan's World War II history. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park to pay respects to the victims of the atomic bombing. Explore the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to learn about the devastation caused by the bomb. End the day with a walk around the Miyajima Island.
Travel to Osaka, known for its food and nightlight. Visit the Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most famous landmarks. Walkthrough Dōtonbori, a popular entertainment district known for its giant neon signs and street food. End the day at Tempozan Ferris Wheel to see the city's skyline at night.
Take a return trip to Hiroshima to visit the Mazda Museum, showcasing the history of the famous Japanese car manufacturer. After, take a walk around Shukkeien Garden, a beautiful Japanese garden that dates back to 1620. Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner in one of Hiroshima's local restaurants.
Travel to Nagoya and visit the Nagoya Castle, an impressive fortified castle. Explore its grounds and visit its museums, showcasing the castle's history. Visit the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, which showcases the history of the famous car manufacturer.
Visit Hakone and experience its hot springs and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Start with a scenic drive around scenic Ashinoko Lake. Visit the Owakudani Valley and experience the area's natural hot springs. End the day at your ryokan and enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner.
Travel back to Tokyo and visit the Meiji Shrine, a sacred Shinto shrine in the heart of Tokyo. Explore the Harajuku district, famous for its trendy street fashion and unique shops. End the day with a visit to the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a beautiful park in the middle of Tokyo.
End the trip with a visit to the Tokyo Tower to see the city's skyline from above. Explore the Akihabara district, famous for its electronics shops and anime/manga-themed cafes. End the trip with dinner at Robuchon au Dôme, a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the Tokyo Skytree.
Consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass if you plan to travel extensively within Japan. The Pass offers unlimited rail travel and is valid for 7, 14 or 21 days. A 14-day pass costs around £350 and travel on JR lines, buses, and ferries. Domestic flights are available but more expensive. Buses are convenient but may take longer. Taxis are available but are quite expensive, especially in Tokyo.
If you have more time, consider visiting the northern region of Tohoku, known for its stunning natural scenery and hot springs. If you have less time, prioritize visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, as they offer the most significant cultural experiences. Be sure to try the local Japanese cuisine, such as sushi, ramen, and udon noodles. Learning a few Japanese phrases will help you communicate better with the locals.
The main airports in Japan are Tokyo's Narita International Airport (NRT), Haneda International Airport (HND), and Osaka's Kansai International Airport (KIX). Narita is located 60 km east of Tokyo, while Haneda is located closer to the city center. Kansai International is located on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, roughly an hour from downtown Osaka.