Discovering Japan: A 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Tokyo Exploration

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Asakusa Senso-ji Temple

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Asakusa Senso-ji Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo. Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of this cultural landmark.
Take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line from your accommodation to Asakusa Station. Walk for 5 minutes to reach the temple.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Tsukiji Outer Market

Indulge in a fresh seafood breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market. Explore the bustling market stalls offering a wide variety of local delicacies.
Take a short 15-minute walk from Asakusa Senso-ji Temple to Tsukiji Outer Market.
Cost of food, 1 hour

1:00PM

Shibuya Crossing

Experience the famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world. Witness the organized chaos and energy of Tokyo's vibrant Shibuya district.
Take the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line from Tsukiji Station to Shibuya Station. Exit at Hachiko Exit for easy access to the crossing.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Meiji Shrine

Stroll through the serene forested area surrounding Meiji Shrine. Take part in a traditional prayer ritual and soak in the peaceful ambiance of this Shinto shrine.
From Shibuya, take the Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station. The shrine is a 10-minute walk from the station.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ramen Street

End your day with a delicious bowl of authentic Japanese ramen at Ramen Street in Tokyo Station. Choose from a variety of regional styles and flavours.
Take the Yamanote Line from Harajuku Station to Tokyo Station. Ramen Street is located within the station.
Cost of food, 1 hour
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Day 2: Tokyo Modern & Traditional

Tokyo, Japan

9:00AM

Tokyo Skytree

Start your day with panoramic views of Tokyo from the observation decks of Tokyo Skytree. Marvel at the modern architecture and cityscape below.
From your accommodation, take the Tobu Skytree Line to Tokyo Skytree Station.
Cost of entry, 2 hours

12:00PM

Akihabara District

Explore the vibrant Akihabara District, known for its electronic shops, anime culture, and themed cafes. Immerse yourself in the world of otaku and tech enthusiasts.
Take the Tobu Skytree Line to Akihabara Station.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Traditional Tea Ceremony

Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a serene tea house. Learn about the rituals and etiquette of this ancient art form.
Take the Yamanote Line from Akihabara Station to Shimbashi Station. The tea house is a short walk from the station.
Cost of tea ceremony, 1 hour

5:00PM

Harajuku Shopping

Shop for trendy fashion and unique souvenirs along Takeshita Street in Harajuku. Discover the vibrant youth culture and quirky fashion trends of Tokyo.
Take the Yamanote Line from Shimbashi Station to Harajuku Station.
Personal expenses, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Izakaya

Enjoy a traditional izakaya dining experience with small plates of Japanese dishes and drinks. Savour the lively atmosphere and local flavours.
Take the Yamanote Line back to your accommodation area, where you can find a local izakaya for dinner.
Cost of food and drinks, 2 hours
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Day 3: Kyoto Temples & Gardens

Kyoto, Japan

9:00AM

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates. Take a leisurely hike up the sacred Mount Inari for panoramic views.
Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto Station. From there, take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station for easy access to the shrine.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Explore Nishiki Market, known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen', and sample a variety of local street foods and traditional Kyoto dishes for lunch.
Walk from Fushimi Inari Taisha to Inari Station. Take the JR Nara Line to Kyoto Station, then walk to Nishiki Market.
Cost of food, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Kinkaku-ji Temple

Visit the stunning Golden Pavilion of Kinkaku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the reflection of the golden structure in the serene pond.
From Nishiki Market, take the bus to Kinkaku-ji-michi bus stop near the temple.
Cost of entry, 1 hour

4:30PM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a peaceful natural setting with towering bamboo stalks. Enjoy a serene stroll amidst the tranquil surroundings.
Take the bus or train from Kinkaku-ji Temple to Arashiyama Station. The Bamboo Grove is a short walk from the station.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Experience a traditional Kyoto dining experience in Pontocho Alley, a narrow street lined with traditional restaurants and teahouses. Enjoy Kyoto cuisine and the historic ambiance.
Take the train or bus back to Kyoto Station, then walk to Pontocho Alley for dinner.
Cost of food, 2 hours
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Day 4: Kyoto & Nara Day Trip

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Nara Deer Park

Embark on a day trip to Nara and visit Nara Deer Park, home to hundreds of freely roaming deer considered sacred by locals. Feed the friendly deer and explore the park.
Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Nara Station. The park is a short walk from the station.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Todai-ji Temple

Discover the impressive Todai-ji Temple, housing the Great Buddha statue. Marvel at the grand architecture and spiritual significance of this historic site.
From Nara Deer Park, walk to Todai-ji Temple within the park grounds.
Cost of entry, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Nara Machi

Enjoy a traditional lunch in the charming streets of Nara Machi. Explore the historic district and savour local delicacies.
Walk from Todai-ji Temple to Nara Machi for lunch.
Cost of food, 1 hour

3:00PM

Isuien Garden

Stroll through the tranquil Isuien Garden, a traditional Japanese garden with ponds, teahouses, and scenic landscapes. Relax in the peaceful setting.
Walk from Nara Machi to Isuien Garden for an afternoon walk.
Cost of entry, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Kyoto

Head back to Kyoto in the evening and enjoy a relaxing dinner in the city. Reflect on the day's cultural exploration and experiences.
Take the JR Nara Line from Nara Station back to Kyoto Station.
Cost of transportation, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Osaka City Adventure

Osaka, Japan

9:00AM

Osaka Castle

Begin your day with a visit to the historic Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city's heritage and resilience. Explore the castle grounds and museums.
Take the Shinkansen from Kyoto to Shin-Osaka Station. Transfer to the Osaka Loop Line to Osakajokoen Station for access to the castle.
Cost of entry, 2 hours

12:00PM

Dotonbori District

Indulge in a gastronomic adventure in Dotonbori District, known for its vibrant street food scene and iconic neon signs. Try local favourites like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
Take the Osaka Loop Line to Namba Station, at the heart of Dotonbori District.
Cost of food, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Shitenno-ji Temple

Visit Shitenno-ji Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan. Explore the peaceful temple complex and learn about its cultural significance.
Take the subway from Namba Station to Shitenno-ji-mae Yuhigaoka Station for easy access to the temple.
Cost of entry, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shopping at Shinsaibashi

Shop for souvenirs and designer goods at Shinsaibashi Shopping Street, a bustling retail district with a wide range of stores and boutiques.
Walk from Shitenno-ji Temple to Shinsaibashi Shopping Street.
Personal expenses, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kuromon Market

Indulge in a seafood feast at Kuromon Market, a lively food market offering fresh seafood and local delicacies. Enjoy a culinary adventure in Osaka.
Take the subway or walk to Kuromon Market for dinner.
Cost of food, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Hiroshima Peace & History

Hiroshima, Japan

8:00AM

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Begin your day with a visit to the poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing. Explore the Peace Museum and iconic A-Bomb Dome.
Take the Shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima Station. From there, take a tram to the Peace Memorial Park.
Cost of entry, 2 hours

11:00AM

Hiroshima Castle

Visit Hiroshima Castle, a reconstructed symbol of resilience and history. Explore the castle grounds and learn about the city's samurai past.
Walk from the Peace Memorial Park to Hiroshima Castle.
Cost of entry, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Okonomimura

Savour Hiroshima's famous okonomiyaki at Okonomimura, a multi-story building dedicated to this delicious savoury pancake dish. Choose from various vendors for a unique dining experience.
Walk or take a short tram ride to Okonomimura for lunch.
Cost of food, 1 hour

3:00PM

Miyajima Island

Take a ferry to Miyajima Island and visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine with its 'floating' torii gate. Explore the island's temples, hiking trails, and friendly deer.
From Hiroshima, take a tram to the ferry terminal, then a ferry to Miyajima Island.
Ferry ticket cost, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Miyajima Seafood Restaurants

Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants on Miyajima Island, known for its fresh oysters and grilled specialties. Experience the island's culinary delights.
Explore the dining options near the ferry terminal for dinner.
Cost of food, 2 hours
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Day 7: Hakone Onsen Retreat

Hakone, Japan

9:00AM

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Start your day at the Hakone Open-Air Museum, an outdoor art gallery showcasing sculptures and installations against the backdrop of nature. Explore the unique art pieces and beautiful gardens.
Take the Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Odawara Station, then a bus or train to the Hakone Open-Air Museum.
Cost of entry, 2 hours

12:00PM

Hakone Ropeway

Ride the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding volcanic landscapes. Experience the breathtaking scenery from above.
From the museum, take a bus or train to the Hakone Ropeway station.
Cost of ticket, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Onsen Experience

Relax and rejuvenate in a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring) in Hakone. Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters amidst a tranquil setting.
Head to a local onsen facility for a relaxing soak.
Cost of onsen entry, 2 hours

5:00PM

Hakone Pirate Ship Cruise

Embark on a scenic cruise across Lake Ashi on a Hakone Pirate Ship. Enjoy views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding mountains from the water.
Walk or take a short bus ride to the Hakone Pirate Ship pier for the cruise.
Cost of cruise ticket, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at a Ryokan

Indulge in a kaiseki dinner at a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) in Hakone. Experience a multi-course meal showcasing seasonal and local ingredients.
Return to your ryokan for a memorable dining experience.
Cost of dinner, 2 hours
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