Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 50 travelers

Discover Japan: 6-Day Itinerary

Saturday, October 7: Tokyo

Morning: Begin your Japanese adventure in Tokyo, the energetic capital city. Start your day by exploring the historic Asakusa district. Visit Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple, and take a stroll through Nakamise Shopping Street, lined with traditional shops selling local snacks and souvenirs.

Afternoon: Head to the Imperial Palace East Gardens, a serene oasis in the heart of the city. Take a leisurely walk and admire the beautiful landscapes, ancient ruins, and stunning architecture.

Evening: Immerse yourself in the bustling nightlife of Shinjuku. Explore Kabukicho, Tokyo's vibrant entertainment district, famous for its neon lights, restaurants, and bars. Don't miss the panoramic views from the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

  • Asakusa: Cost: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Imperial Palace East Gardens: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Shinjuku: Cost: Variable, Time: Evening
Sunday, October 8: Kyoto

Morning: Take a bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto, Japan's cultural capital. Begin your day at Kinkaku-ji, the iconic Golden Pavilion. Admire this stunning golden structure set against a picturesque garden.

Afternoon: Explore Arashiyama, a tranquil district known for its bamboo groves. Visit the enchanting Tenryu-ji Temple and take a peaceful stroll along the famous Togetsukyo Bridge.

Evening: Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in Gion, Kyoto's historic geisha district. Take a walk along Hanamikoji Street and soak in the atmosphere of this traditional neighborhood.

  • Kinkaku-ji: Cost: ¥400, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Arashiyama: Cost: Free, Time: 3-4 hours
  • Gion: Cost: Variable, Time: Evening
Monday, October 9: Osaka

Morning: Journey to Osaka, the vibrant city known for its culinary delights. Start your day with a visit to Osaka Castle, a magnificent fortress surrounded by picturesque gardens.

Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Dotonbori, Osaka's iconic entertainment district. Indulge in local street food, shop for souvenirs, and stroll along the Dotonbori Canal.

Evening: Head to Shinsekai, a nostalgic district famous for its retro charm and delicious kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). Enjoy a vibrant evening filled with local flavors and karaoke.

  • Osaka Castle: Cost: ¥600, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Dotonbori: Cost: Variable, Time: Afternoon
  • Shinsekai: Cost: Variable, Time: Evening
Tuesday, October 10: Hiroshima

Morning: Take a trip to Hiroshima, a city with a poignant history and inspiring resilience. Visit the Peace Memorial Park, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb. Explore the Peace Memorial Museum for a deeper understanding of the events that transpired in 1945.

Afternoon: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island and marvel at the iconic Itsukushima Shrine. Witness the famous floating torii gate and explore the island's scenic trails.

Evening: Return to Hiroshima and indulge in Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a delicious savory pancake, for dinner.

  • Peace Memorial Park: Cost: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Miyajima Island: Cost: Ferry - ¥360 round trip, Time: Afternoon
  • Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki: Cost: Variable, Time: Evening
Wednesday, October 11: Nara

Morning: Travel to Nara, a city known for its ancient temples and friendly deer. Begin your day by visiting Todai-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing the gigantic Great Buddha.

Afternoon: Explore the serene Isuien Garden, featuring beautiful landscapes and traditional Japanese tea houses. Don't forget to stop by Kasuga Taisha, an impressive Shinto shrine nestled in Nara Park.

Evening: Take a leisurely stroll through Naramachi, the old merchant district of Nara. Discover quaint streets, traditional wooden houses, and local crafts.

  • Todai-ji: Cost: ¥500, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Isuien Garden: Cost: ¥900, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Naramachi: Cost: Free, Time: Evening
Thursday, October 12: Mount Fuji

Morning: Embark on a day trip to Mount Fuji, Japan's iconic and sacred mountain. Take a bus to the Mount Fuji 5th Station and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Afternoon: Experience the natural beauty of the Hakone region. Take a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Ashi and ride the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic vistas of Mount Fuji.

Evening: Soak in the rejuvenating waters of a traditional hot spring (onsen) in Hakone before returning to Tokyo.

  • Mount Fuji 5th Station: Cost: Bus - ¥1,400 round trip, Time: Morning
  • Lake Ashi and Hakone Ropeway: Cost: Various ticket options, Time: Afternoon
  • Hakone hot spring: Cost: Variable, Time: Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Japan, don't miss the opportunity to visit Kanazawa, a city renowned for its beautifully preserved samurai and geisha districts. Marvel at Kenrokuen, one of Japan's most stunning gardens, and immerse yourself in the traditions of tea ceremonies and kimono-wearing.

Additionally, make time for a visit to the charming town of Nikko, nestled in the mountains. Discover Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with intricate carvings, and explore the tranquil beauty of Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls.

If you need assistance with booking hotels and flights for your Japan trip, check out Kayak for the best deals on accommodations and flights.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version