Explore the best of Japan with this 7-day family-friendly itinerary starting on Wednesday, November 8, 2023.
Morning: Start your trip with a visit to Tokyo Disneyland, the magical theme park where dreams come true. Experience thrilling rides, meet beloved Disney characters, and enjoy enchanting parades and shows. Cost: Estimated tickets from $70 per person. Time spent: All day.
Morning: Head to Tokyo Tower, an iconic landmark offering breathtaking views of the city skyline. Take the elevator up to the main observatory and marvel at the panoramic vistas. Cost: Estimated tickets from $10 per person. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Afternoon: Explore Zojoji Temple, located near Tokyo Tower. Admire the Buddhist architecture and serene gardens. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Evening: Enjoy a stroll in the vibrant Shibuya district, known for its bustling streets, trendy shops, and the famous Shibuya Crossing. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Morning: Catch a bullet train from Tokyo to Osaka. Visit Universal Studios Japan, a thrilling theme park with attractions based on popular movies and characters like Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and more. Cost: Estimated tickets from $70 per person. Time spent: All day.
Morning: Take a train from Osaka to Kyoto. Explore the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene bamboo forest that creates a magical atmosphere. Cost: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Afternoon: Visit the nearby Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful Zen gardens. Cost: Estimated tickets from $5 per person. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Evening: Experience a traditional tea ceremony at one of Kyoto's tea houses and immerse yourself in Japanese tea culture. Cost: Estimated from $30 per person. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Morning: Take a bullet train from Kyoto to Hiroshima. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a place of remembrance and reflection dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945. Cost: Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Afternoon: Explore the Hiroshima Castle, a reconstructed castle offering panoramic views of the city. Cost: Estimated tickets from $5 per person. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Evening: Take a leisurely walk along the Hondori Street in Hiroshima's city center, filled with shops, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Morning: Take a train from Hiroshima to Nara. Visit Nara Park, home to hundreds of freely-roaming deer and historic sites, including the famous Todai-ji Temple housing a giant Buddha statue. Cost: Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Afternoon: Explore Kasuga Taisha Shrine, known for its beautiful vermilion-colored buildings and surrounding forest. Cost: Estimated from $5 per person. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner in the scenic Naramachi district, filled with traditional wooden houses and local shops. Cost: Estimated from $20 per person. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Morning: Take a train from Nara back to Tokyo. Visit the Tokyo National Museum, housing an extensive collection of Japanese art, artifacts, and cultural treasures. Cost: Estimated tickets from $8 per person. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Afternoon: Explore Ueno Park, a spacious park with beautiful gardens, museums, and a zoo. Enjoy a relaxing picnic or visit the Ueno Zoo. Cost: Estimated tickets from $5 per person. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Evening: Indulge in a lively dining experience at a traditional izakaya, where you can enjoy delicious Japanese dishes and drinks. Cost: Estimated from $30 per person. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
For a hidden gem, consider visiting Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto, a stunning Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf. It's a mesmerizing sight and a photographer's dream.
Local favorites include exploring the Gion district in Kyoto, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture. You can spot geisha walking along the streets and perhaps even catch a traditional dance performance.
Check here to find the best hotel and flight prices for your Japan trip.