10-Day Nature Lovers Itinerary in Japan

Day 1: Explore Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Shinjuku Gyoen National Park

Start your adventure in this expansive garden featuring traditional Japanese landscapes amidst the city's hustle.
Take the Marunouchi Line to Shinjuku Station and walk 10 minutes.
JPY 500, 2 hours

10:30AM

Meiji Shrine

Stroll through a tranquil forested area leading to a serene Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji.
A 15-minute walk from Shinjuku Gyoen.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Katsu Midori

Enjoy a sushi lunch at this popular sushi train restaurant with fresh selections.
Located in Shibuya, 10 minutes by train from Meiji Shrine.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Ueno Park and Zoo

Explore Ueno Park, home to museums and a small zoo, ideal for a leisurely walk amidst nature.
Take the Yamanote Line to Ueno Station.
JPY 600, 2 hours

4:30PM

Tokyo Skytree

Take in breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo from the observation decks of this iconic tower.
Take the Hanzomon Line to Oshiage Station.
JPY 2100, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Asakusa Imahan

Savor traditional shabu-shabu in a rich atmosphere that reflects the history of Tokyo.
A short train ride back to Asakusa.
JPY 5000, 2 hours
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Day 2: Nikko National Park

Nikko, Japan

7:30AM

Travel to Nikko

Take the JR Tohoku Line from Tokyo to Nikko, enjoying the scenic views.
Approx. 2 hours.
JPY 2400, 2 hours

10:00AM

Toshogu Shrine

Visit this ornate shrine dedicated to the first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, surrounded by impressive cedar trees.
Take bus from Nikko Station.
JPY 1300, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Kanaya Hotel Bakery

Sample delicious pastries and a light meal at this charming bakery near the shrines.
5-minute walk from Toshogu Shrine.
JPY 1200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Kegon Falls

Marvel at one of Japan’s most beautiful waterfalls, plunging 97 meters into Lake Chuzenji.
Take a bus from the shrine.
JPY 550, 2 hours

5:00PM

Lake Chuzenji

Enjoy a leisurely stroll by the lakeside, surrounded by mountains, perfect for unwinding and taking photos.
Walk along the lakeside paths.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Yuba Shokudo

Try Yuba, tofu skin, a specialty in Nikko, at this cozy local restaurant.
10-minute taxi ride from Lake Chuzenji.
JPY 3000, 2 hours
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Day 3: Scenic Hakone

Hakone, Japan

8:00AM

Travel to Hakone

Take the Hakone Tozan Line from Nikko to Hakone, enjoying the shift in scenery.
Approx. 4 hours.
JPY 5000, 4 hours

12:00PM

Hakone Open Air Museum

Wander through this unique museum housing sculptures and artworks set amidst stunning nature.
15-minute bus ride from the Hakone station.
JPY 1600, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Soba Takamura

Relish freshly made soba noodles in a charming setting with views of nature.
15-minute walk from the museum.
JPY 1800, 1 hour

4:00PM

Lake Ashi

Take a boat cruise on Lake Ashi with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji on a clear day.
Board from the pier next to the museum.
JPY 1000, 1 hour

5:30PM

Hakone Shrine

Visit this iconic shrine nestled in the woods, famous for its torii gate standing in the lake.
Short walk from Lake Ashi pier.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Green Plaza Hakone

Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner with local specialties while overlooking the mountains.
Take a bus from Hakone Shrine.
JPY 8000, 2 hours
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Day 4: Mount Fuji

Lake Kawaguchi, Japan

8:00AM

Travel to Lake Kawaguchi

Take a bus from Hakone to Lake Kawaguchi, admiring views of Mount Fuji along the way.
Approx. 2.5 hours.
JPY 2000, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Lake Kawaguchi

Explore the beautiful shores of this lake with stunning views of Mount Fuji, perfect for photos.
Stroll along the water's edge.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fujiyama Onsen

Savor delicious local food while relaxing in a hot spring setting.
5-minute walk from the lake.
JPY 3500, 2 hours

3:00PM

Kawaguchiko Music Forest

Enjoy the serene atmosphere of this garden filled with music boxes and european gardens.
10-minute bus from the lunch spot.
JPY 1300, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Tenjo-Yama Park

Hike up to this park for panoramic views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding areas.
15-minute walk from Kawaguchiko Music Forest.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hoto Fudo

End your day with a bowl of Hoto noodles, a local specialty, at this popular restaurant.
15-minute walk from the park.
JPY 1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Admire Matsumoto

Matsumoto, Japan

8:00AM

Travel to Matsumoto

Take the JR Chuo Line from Kawaguchi to Matsumoto, enjoying beautiful mountain views.
Approx. 1.5 hours.
JPY 2500, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Matsumoto Castle

Visit the historical Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's most beautiful and well-preserved castles.
15-minute walk from the station.
JPY 610, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Alpico Plaza

Enjoy a snack at this major terminal with plenty of options including local specialties.
10-minute walk from the castle.
JPY 800, 1 hour

1:00PM

Nakamachi Street

Stroll down this picturesque street lined with traditional wooden buildings and local shops.
5-minute walk from Alpico Plaza.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Matsumoto City Park

Relax in this urban oasis filled with cherry blossoms and green spaces, perfect for resting.
15-minute walk from Nakamachi Street.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Kobayashi

Taste the local soba noodles at this renowned restaurant, known for its fresh ingredients.
5-minute walk from the park.
JPY 1800, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Kamikochi Wilderness

Kamikochi, Japan

7:00AM

Travel to Kamikochi

Take a bus from Matsumoto to Kamikochi, a stunning alpine area for hikers.
Approx. 1 hour.
JPY 2000, 1 hour

8:00AM

Kamikochi Nature Walk

Start your adventure with a leisurely walk through this breathtaking valley, filled with diverse flora and fauna.
Follow the signs from the bus terminal.
Free, 3 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Kappa Restaurant

Recharge with a hearty meal at this popular spot, known for its bibimbap and soba dishes.
Walk back to the bus terminal.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Taisho Pond

Visit this picturesque pond, perfect for photography with reflections of the mountains.
20-minute walk from Kappa Restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kappa Bridge

Cross this iconic bridge offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
15-minute walk from Taisho Pond.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Kamikochi Soba

Sample soba noodles in the alpine area at this charming restaurant.
Return to the bus terminal area.
JPY 2000, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Takayama Old Town

Takayama, Japan

8:00AM

Travel to Takayama

Take a bus back to Matsumoto, then catch a train to Takayama.
Approx. 3 hours total.
JPY 3000, 3 hours

11:00AM

Sanmachi Suji

Explore the preserved historic district with traditional wooden houses, shops, and sake breweries.
15-minute walk from Takayama Station.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ajikura Tengoku

Try Takayama's famous Hida beef at this popular eatery known for its grilled dishes.
5-minute walk from Sanmachi Suji.
JPY 3000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Hida Minzoku Mura Folk Village

Visit this open-air museum showcasing traditional rural architecture and crafts.
Get there via a short bus ride.
JPY 700, 2 hours

5:30PM

Takayama Jinya

Discover this historical government outpost featuring beautiful architecture and gardens.
15-minute bus from Hida Minzoku Mura.
JPY 200, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hida Beef Grill

Savor delicious grilled Hida beef, an authentic experience in the region.
Short walk from Takayama Jinya.
JPY 4000, 2 hours
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Day 8: Shirakawa-go Village

Shirakawa-go, Japan

8:00AM

Travel to Shirakawa-go

Catch a bus from Takayama to Shirakawa-go, famous for its thatched-roof houses.
Approx. 1 hour.
JPY 2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Gassho-zukuri Farmhouses

Explore the traditional farmhouses and learn about the historic rural lifestyle.
Stroll through the village.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Shirakawa-go Restaurant

Taste the local cuisine, including seasonal ingredients and regional specialties.
Dine at a local restaurant within the village.
JPY 2500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Viewpoint for Shirakawa-go

Visit the viewpoint overlooking the village, offering fantastic photo opportunities.
Short walk from the village center.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore more of the village

Continually wander the enchanting streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Self-guided exploration.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Shirakawa-go Soba

End your day with traditional soba noodles at a quaint village eatery.
Within walking distance of the viewpoint.
JPY 1800, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Nara's Natural Beauty

Nara, Japan

8:00AM

Travel to Nara

Catch a bus from Shirakawa-go back to Takayama and then a train to Nara.
Approx. 4 hours total.
JPY 4000, 4 hours

12:00PM

Nara Park

Explore this expansive park populated by friendly free-roaming deer and stunning temples.
From Nara Station, it's a 15-minute walk.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Maguro Koya

Enjoy a unique seafood experience at this local favorite, specializing in sashimi.
10-minute walk from Nara Park.
JPY 3000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Todai-ji Temple

Visit this majestic temple housing a giant bronze Buddha, surrounded by ancient trees.
A short walk from Nara Park.
JPY 600, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Isuien Garden

Wander through this tranquil garden featuring beautiful ponds, and designs reminiscent of classical Japanese aesthetics.
15-minute walk from Todai-ji Temple.
JPY 1000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hiraso

End your day with a traditional kaiseki meal highlighting seasonal ingredients.
A short walk from Isuien Garden.
JPY 7000, 2 hours
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Day 10: Cultural Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Travel to Kyoto

Take a train from Nara to Kyoto for your final destination.
Approx. 1 hour.
JPY 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through this ethereal bamboo forest, a perfect way to connect with nature.
Take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto to Arashiyama.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Yoshimura

Enjoy a scenic experience with traditional soba noodles overlooking the river.
5-minute walk from the bamboo grove.
JPY 2500, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful gardens reflecting the essence of Zen.
Walking distance from the bamboo grove.
JPY 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Nanzen-ji Temple and Garden

Wander through this expansive temple complex surrounded by serene nature.
Take a train to Keage Station.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Savor an exquisite kaiseki dinner, celebrating your trip with a culinary experience reflecting regional craftsmanship.
Take a bus from Nanzen-ji Temple.
JPY 10000, 2 hours
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