The Tokyo Tower is a communication and observation tower located in the heart of Tokyo. It offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can also visit the various shops and restaurants located within the tower.
The Meiji Shrine is a beautiful Shinto shrine located in the Shibuya district of Tokyo. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk through the forested area leading up to the shrine. Afterward, head to Takeshita Street and experience its vibrant culture and street style. This bustling shopping district is filled with unique clothing stores and colorful sweets.
The Osaka Castle is a stunning piece of Japanese architecture and boasts a rich history. Take a stroll through the castle park and enjoy the view. Next, visit Dotonbori, the lively entertainment district of Osaka. This bustling area is known for its bright neon lights, delicious street food, and exciting nightlife.
Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of the most popular Shinto shrines in Kyoto. This stunning shrine is famous for its thousands of torii gates winding up the mountainside. Later, head to the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take in the stunning views of Kyoto from the temple and wander around the quaint streets leading up to it.
Start your day with a visit to the stunning district of Arashiyama. Famous for its bamboo groves and stunning scenery, this area of Kyoto is a must-see for any visitor. Afterward, head to Gion, the traditional entertainment district of Kyoto. Take a stroll around the charming streets, and if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a real-life geisha.
Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, a sober reminder of the world's first atomic bombing. Take a walk through the park and visit the museum to learn more about the history of the bombing. Follow that with a visit to Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, famous for its torii gate standing in the water. Here, you can also enjoy the beautiful colors of autumn leaves.
Visit Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most magnificent castles. Take a stroll through the castle grounds and explore the various buildings and rooms. Next, head to the charming city of Kobe, famous for its delicious beef and stunning scenery. Take a stroll through the city's thriving Chinatown and enjoy a meal at one of its many restaurants.
Spend your final day at Tokyo DisneySea, a unique Disney theme park located in Tokyo. With rides and attractions based on the sea, visitors can enjoy the park's whimsical themes and characters. Take a leisurely stroll around the park's various ports of call and enjoy the park's numerous shows and parades. It's the perfect end to an unforgettable trip to Japan.
Getting around Japan is a breeze with its extensive transportation network. The easiest way to explore the country is with a JR Pass, which provides unlimited access to trains and buses across the country. The pass can be purchased before arriving in Japan and is cost-effective for long-distance journeys. Local transportation in each city, such as trains and buses, are also affordable and efficient, costing around ¥200-¥500 per ride. Taxi rides can be expensive, so it's recommended to use them sparingly.
If you have more time, consider adding a visit to Nara, known for its friendly deer and stunning temples. For those interested in technology, a visit to Akihabara in Tokyo is a must-see, known for its electronic shops and popular anime culture. Those with less time may want to skip one of the cities and spend more time exploring the others.
Japan has several airports catering to domestic and international flights, including the Narita International Airport (NRT) located in Tokyo and the Kansai International Airport (KIX) located in Osaka. Both airports are located outside the city center and can be accessed by train, bus, or taxi.