7-Day Itinerary for a Couples Trip to Japan

This 7-day itinerary is designed for 2 couples traveling to Japan on a medium budget. Starting on Sunday, April 14, 2024, you will have a memorable and diverse experience in this enchanting country.

Sunday, April 14: Exploring Tokyo

In the morning, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Tokyo's Tsukiji Fish Market, where you can witness the vibrant seafood trade. In the afternoon, visit the historic Asakusa district and explore the Senso-ji Temple. Enjoy an evening boat ride on the Sumida River, taking in the city's stunning skyline.

• Tsukiji Fish Market: Estimated cost - Free (for browsing); Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Senso-ji Temple: Estimated cost - Free; Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Sumida River Boat Ride: Estimated cost - 1500 Yen (approximately $14); Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Monday, April 15: Historical Kyoto

Start your day by visiting the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. In the afternoon, explore the traditional streets of Higashiyama and visit the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple. End your day with a relaxing stroll through the beautiful Maruyama Park.

• Kinkaku-ji Temple: Estimated cost - 400 Yen (approximately $4); Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Estimated cost - 400 Yen (approximately $4); Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Maruyama Park: Estimated cost - Free; Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, April 16: Cultural Osaka

Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Osaka Castle and its surrounding park. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant district of Dotonbori, known for its delicious street food and iconic neon signs. End your day at the peaceful Shinsekai district, offering a nostalgic atmosphere and a chance to try local delicacies.

• Osaka Castle: Estimated cost - 600 Yen (approximately $6); Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Dotonbori: Estimated cost - Free (costs may vary depending on food choices); Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Shinsekai: Estimated cost - Free (costs may vary depending on food choices); Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday, April 17: Majestic Hiroshima

Take a morning train to Hiroshima and visit the sobering Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing. Explore the tranquil Itsukushima Shrine and marvel at the iconic floating torii gate on Miyajima Island in the afternoon. Experience the serene beauty of the island before returning to Hiroshima for the evening.

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Estimated cost - Free; Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Itsukushima Shrine: Estimated cost - 300 Yen (approximately $3); Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Miyajima Island: Estimated cost - Free (additional costs for ferry ride); Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours

Thursday, April 18: Natural Beauty in Hakone

Travel to Hakone, a charming town known for its hot springs and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Start your day with a relaxing visit to an onsen (hot spring) and then explore the Hakone Open-Air Museum, showcasing a beautiful collection of sculptures and artworks. Take a scenic cruise on Lake Ashinoko and ride the Hakone Ropeway for breathtaking views.

• Hakone Onsen: Estimated cost - Varies depending on the chosen onsen; Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Hakone Open-Air Museum: Estimated cost - 1600 Yen (approximately $15); Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Lake Ashinoko Cruise and Hakone Ropeway: Estimated cost - 2000 Yen (approximately $19); Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Friday, April 19: Vibrant Nara

Start your day by visiting Nara Park, where you can feed and interact with the friendly deer roaming freely. Explore the awe-inspiring Todaiji Temple, home to the world's largest bronze statue of Buddha. In the afternoon, wander through the picturesque streets of Naramachi and visit the tranquil gardens of Isuien.

• Nara Park: Estimated cost - Free; Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Todaiji Temple: Estimated cost - 600 Yen (approximately $6); Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Naramachi and Isuien: Estimated cost - 700 Yen (approximately $7); Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, April 20: Dynamic Osaka

Spend your last day exploring more of Osaka. Start by visiting the impressive Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, home to a wide variety of marine species. In the afternoon, enjoy the thrilling rides and attractions at Universal Studios Japan. End your trip on a high note by experiencing the vibrant nightlife in the Dotonbori area.

• Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: Estimated cost - 2300 Yen (approximately $22); Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Universal Studios Japan: Estimated cost - 8600 Yen (approximately $81); Estimated time spent - 4-6 hours
• Dotonbori: Estimated cost - Free (costs may vary depending on food choices); Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Japan, don't miss out on these off the beaten path attractions and local favorites. Visit the quaint town of Kawagoe near Tokyo, known for its well-preserved Edo period architecture. In Kyoto, explore the charming neighborhood of Arashiyama and take a relaxing bamboo forest walk. Lastly, make time to enjoy the breathtaking views from the Hakodate Mountain in Hakodate City, Hokkaido.