Start your trip in Tokyo and visit some of its iconic landmarks such as the Sensoji Temple in Asakusa or the Tokyo Tower. Explore the city's busy streets, experience the unique culture and indulge in some delicious Japanese cuisine.
Take a short trip to Yokohama and visit the Minato Mirai 21, a modern seaside district with a wide range of restaurants, cafés, and shops. Take a stroll in the Yamashita Park and enjoy the beautiful views of the port.
Explore the picturesque town of Nikko, home to some of Japan's most stunning natural and cultural attractions, including the Toshogu Shrine and the Kegon Waterfall. Be prepared to do a lot of walking and bring comfortable shoes.
Spend a couple of days in Kyoto and experience the traditional side of Japan. Visit the Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, and the Fushimi Inari Taisha, a beautiful shrine with thousands of torii gates. Don't forget to try some Kyoto-style cuisine such as kaiseki, a multi-course Japanese meal.
Head to Osaka, known as Japan's food capital, and indulge in some tasty street food such as takoyaki, grilled octopus balls, and okonomiyaki, a savory pancake. Visit the Osaka Castle, a historic site with a museum and beautiful gardens, and the Shitennoji Temple, one of Japan's oldest temples.
Take a long journey to Hiroshima and visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb during World War II. Nearby, you can also see the Itsukushima Shrine on the picturesque island of Miyajima.
Explore Nagoya, a laid-back city home to many historic sites, such as the Nagoya Castle, a massive fortress from the Edo period, and the Atsuta Shrine, one of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan. Don't miss the chance to try some hitsumabushi, a Nagoya specialty dish consisting of grilled eel on rice.
Return to Tokyo and spend your last few days exploring the city's lesser-known neighborhoods, such as Kichijojig, a bohemian area with street performers and vintage shops, or Nakameguro, a trendy district with trendy restaurants and cafes. Don't forget to do some last minute shopping and try some delicious sushi or ramen before heading back home.
Getting around Japan is easy with its extensive rail network. Consider purchasing a JR Pass if you plan to travel long distances by train. Local transportation options for each city include buses, subway, and taxis. Budget travelers can also take overnight buses instead of expensive train rides. Plan your route in advance and download maps and transportation apps to make your journey smoother.
If you have more time, consider visiting other popular destinations such as Nara, an ancient capital with many temples and gardens, or the Hakone hot springs area near Tokyo. If you have less time, cut down on the number of destinations and stay longer in each city to fully explore its local culture and cuisine. Don't forget to pack comfortable shoes and dress in layers, especially during the colder months.
Japan's main international airport is Narita International Airport (NRT) located about 37 miles east of Tokyo. Another convenient option is Haneda Airport (HND), located just 9 miles from the city center. Both airports have easy access to public transportation and shuttle buses to major hotels.