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

7-Day Luxury Itinerary in Japan: December 3-9, 2023

Viewed by 70 travelers
Sunday, December 3: Exploring Tokyo

Begin your luxurious journey in Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan. Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Meiji Shrine, surrounded by beautiful gardens and serene forests. In the afternoon, indulge in a shopping spree in Ginza, renowned for its upscale boutiques and department stores. As the evening approaches, experience the vibrant nightlife of Roppongi, known for its trendy bars and high-end dining options.

  • Meiji Shrine: Entrance is free; recommended time: 1-2 hours
  • Ginza Shopping District: Budget estimate depends on personal shopping choices; recommended time: 2-3 hours
  • Roppongi District: Budget estimate depends on dining choices; recommended time: evening
Monday, December 4: Cultural Exploration in Kyoto

Travel to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, and immerse yourself in its rich traditions. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, with its stunning reflection on the pond. In the afternoon, explore the historic streets of Higashiyama and visit the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Wrap up the day by indulging in a traditional tea ceremony in a luxurious teahouse.

  • Kinkaku-ji Temple: Entrance fee around 400-500 yen (~$4-5); recommended time: 1-2 hours
  • Higashiyama District: Free to explore; recommended time: 2-3 hours
  • Traditional Tea Ceremony: Prices vary depending on the experience; recommended time: evening
Tuesday, December 5: Serenity in Hakone

Take a day trip to Hakone, a tranquil area known for its hot springs and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Start your morning with a relaxing boat ride on Lake Ashi, offering picturesque views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, showcasing contemporary sculptures set amidst nature. Wrap up your day by indulging in a luxurious onsen experience, enjoying the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs.

  • Lake Ashi Boat Ride: Boat pass around 1,000-1,500 yen (~$10-15); recommended time: 1-2 hours
  • Hakone Open-Air Museum: Entrance fee around 1,800-2,000 yen (~$18-20); recommended time: 2-3 hours
  • Luxurious Onsen Experience: Prices vary depending on the selected onsen; recommended time: evening
Wednesday, December 6: Historic Exploration in Hiroshima

Take a bullet train to Hiroshima and delve into its poignant history. In the morning, visit the Peace Memorial Park and the contrasting Atomic Bomb Dome to learn about the city's tragic past. Afterward, explore the stunning Itsukushima Shrine, known for its iconic floating torii gate, on Miyajima Island. Witness a traditional tea ceremony and marvel at the beautiful nature surrounding the shrine.

  • Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome: Free to visit; recommended time: 2-3 hours
  • Itsukushima Shrine: Entrance fee for shrine and tea ceremony around 300-500 yen (~$3-5); recommended time: 2-3 hours
Thursday, December 7: Modernity in Osaka

Explore the vibrant city of Osaka, known for its modern architecture and bustling street food scene. Start your morning by visiting Osaka Castle, a magnificent feudal fortress surrounded by beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, indulge in a shopping spree at Shinsaibashi, a bustling shopping district offering a wide range of luxury brand stores. In the evening, savor the flavors of Dotonbori, a food paradise famous for its vibrant neon signs and delicious street food.

  • Osaka Castle: Entrance fee around 600-700 yen (~$6-7); recommended time: 2-3 hours
  • Shinsaibashi Shopping District: Budget estimate depends on personal shopping choices; recommended time: 2-3 hours
  • Dotonbori Food Street: Budget estimate depends on dining choices; recommended time: evening
Friday, December 8: Nature in Nara

Embark on a day trip to Nara, home to scenic landscapes and friendly deer roaming freely. Begin your morning by visiting the iconic Todaiji Temple, housing the largest bronze Buddha statue in Japan. In the afternoon, explore Nara Park, where you can mingle with the deer and visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Complete your day with a serene stroll through the mesmerizing Isuien Garden.

  • Todaiji Temple: Entrance fee around 500-600 yen (~$5-6); recommended time: 2-3 hours
  • Nara Park: Free to visit; recommended time: 2-3 hours
  • Isuien Garden: Entrance fee around 500-700 yen (~$5-7); recommended time: 1-2 hours
Saturday, December 9: Zen in Kanazawa

Conclude your luxury journey in Kanazawa, a city renowned for its well-preserved Edo-era architecture and beautiful traditional gardens. Start your morning by exploring the Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan's most exquisite gardens. In the afternoon, visit the Kanazawa Castle, a stunning castle complex rich in history and beautiful artifacts. Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Higashi Chaya District, known for its traditional geisha houses and tea houses.

  • Kenroku-en Garden: Entrance fee around 310-500 yen (~$3-5); recommended time: 2-3 hours
  • Kanazawa Castle: Entrance fee around 300-500 yen (~$3-5); recommended time: 2-3 hours
  • Higashi Chaya District: Free to explore; recommended time: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Japan, consider visiting the hidden gems and local favorites that often go unnoticed by tourists. In Tokyo, venture to the upscale neighborhood of Aoyama and visit the Nezu Museum, housing a vast collection of Asian art. In Kyoto, take a leisurely stroll along the Philosopher's Path, a beautiful canal-side walkway lined with cherry blossoms in spring. In Hakone, discover the peaceful Hakone Shrine hidden in the forest. In Osaka, visit the stunning Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, known for its incredible variety of marine life. These off the beaten path attractions and places beloved by locals will add an extra touch of luxury and exclusivity to your itinerary.

For the best hotel and flight options, visit kayak.com.

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