Discovering Japan: A 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Vibrant Osaka

Osaka, Japan

9:00AM

Arrival in Osaka

Start your day with the arrival in Osaka and check-in to the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Experience the vibrant Dotonbori district and savour delicious street food and local delicacies.
£20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore the majestic Osaka Castle, surrounded by expansive gardens and offering panoramic city views.
£8, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Shinsekai District

Experience the nostalgic and vibrant atmosphere of Shinsekai, known for its retro charm and delicious kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).
£45, 2 hours

Day 2: Cultural Osaka

Osaka, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Taste a variety of fresh produce and local treats at the lively Kuromon Ichiba Market.
£15, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Shitenno-ji Temple

Visit one of Japan's oldest temples, Shitenno-ji, and immerse yourself in its historical and architectural significance.
£5, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Hozen-ji Yokocho

Enjoy a traditional lunch in the charming alleyways of Hozen-ji Yokocho, featuring small eateries and local flavours.
£30, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Abeno Harukas

Experience breathtaking views and modern architecture at Abeno Harukas, one of Japan's tallest buildings.
£18, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kitashinchi District

Indulge in a culinary journey at Kitashinchi, known for its diverse dining scene and sophisticated bars.
£60, 3 hours

Day 3: Historical Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

9:00AM

Travel to Kyoto

Take the Shinkansen from Osaka to Kyoto, a journey of approximately 15 minutes.
£15, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Nijo Castle

Discover the ornate architecture and beautiful gardens of Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
£12, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Experience a diverse array of traditional Kyoto cuisine at Nishiki Market, known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen'.
£25, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the stunning Kinkaku-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, set within beautiful gardens.
£10, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Gion District

Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant in the historic Gion district, known for its geisha culture and charming streets.
£40, 2.5 hours

Day 4: Cultural Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at a Traditional Tea House

Enjoy a serene breakfast at a traditional tea house, savouring the tranquil atmosphere and matcha delights.
£30, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the ethereal Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a natural wonder and cultural symbol of Kyoto.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Sagano Scenic Railway

Enjoy a scenic lunch on the Sagano Scenic Railway, offering picturesque views of the Hozugawa River and lush landscapes.
£40, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates winding through the forested hillside.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Nishijin Textile Centre

Indulge in a sumptuous kaiseki dinner at the Nishijin Textile Centre, showcasing Kyoto's traditional textile arts.
£60, 2.5 hours

Day 5: Energetic Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

9:00AM

Travel to Tokyo

Take the Shinkansen from Kyoto to Tokyo, a journey of approximately 2 hours, and check-in to the hotel.
£100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Tsukiji Outer Market

Indulge in a variety of fresh seafood and culinary delights at Tokyo's famous Tsukiji Outer Market.
£20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple

Explore the historic Asakusa district and visit the iconic Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest temple.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Stroll in the Imperial Palace East Gardens

Take a serene walk in the beautiful East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, rich in history and natural beauty.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at a Michelin Star Restaurant

Experience the culinary artistry of a Michelin-starred restaurant for a memorable dinner.
£100, 2.5 hours

Day 6: Tokyo Modern and Traditional

Tokyo, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Akihabara

Indulge in a themed café breakfast experience in Akihabara, the electronic and anime district of Tokyo.
£20, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Tokyo Skytree

Head to the Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views of the city and beyond.
£25, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at a Ramen Museum

Visit the Ramen Museum in Yokohama to taste a variety of delicious and authentic ramen dishes.
£35, 2 hours

4:00PM

Stroll in the Imperial Palace East Gardens

Take a serene walk in the beautiful East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, rich in history and natural beauty.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Traditional Izakaya

Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse food options in one of Tokyo's traditional izakaya alleys.
£50, 2 hours

Day 7: Tokyo Cultural Exploration

Tokyo, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Tsuta Ramen

Enjoy a delectable bowl of Michelin-starred ramen at Tsuta Ramen, known for its rich and flavourful broth.
£30, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park

Explore the tranquil Meiji Shrine and the vibrant Yoyogi Park, offering a serene contrast within the city.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Harajuku District

Indulge in a colourful and kawaii-inspired lunch in the trendy Harajuku district.
£25, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Odaiba Island

Discover the futuristic and entertainment-filled Odaiba Island, home to unique attractions and shopping centres.
£20, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at a Modern Izakaya

Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse food options in a contemporary izakaya, capturing the essence of modern Tokyo dining.
£40, 2 hours