10-Day Japan Adventure: Kyoto, Hiroshima, Osaka, and the Magical Five Lakes

Day 1: Explore Kyoto's Temples

Kyoto, Japan on January 4, 2025

9:00AM

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Start your adventure at the stunning Golden Pavilion, with its reflective pond and beautiful gardens, providing a picturesque introduction to Kyoto.
Take bus number 101 from Kyoto Station to Kinkaku-ji.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Ryoan-ji Rock Garden

Next, immerse yourself in Zen at Ryoan-ji, home of the famous rock garden that invites meditation and contemplation.
Walk 15 minutes from Kinkaku-ji to Ryoan-ji.
JPY400, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Savor delicious udon noodles in a serene atmosphere at Omen, renowned for its homemade noodles and fresh vegetables.
Take a 20-minute taxi from Ryoan-ji to Omen.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

After lunch, visit Kiyomizu-dera, where you can enjoy the panoramic views of Kyoto from the wooden terrace.
Take bus number 100 from Omen to Kiyomizu-dera.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Gion District Evening Stroll

Conclude your day with a stroll through the historic Gion district, where you might spot a geisha.
Walk 15 minutes from Kiyomizu-dera to Gion.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Indulge in an exquisite kaiseki dinner at Gion Karyo, featuring seasonal ingredients and traditional Japanese presentation.
Walk 5 minutes to Gion Karyo.
JPY6000, 2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Depth in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on January 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Lax

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Cafe Lax with fresh pastries and coffee.
A short walk from your accommodation.
JPY800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Experience the iconic thousands of vermillion torii gates lining the path of Fushimi Inari Taisha, a deeply revered Shinto shrine.
Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Inari Station.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Inari Sushi

Savor Inari sushi, sweetened rice wrapped in fried tofu, at a nearby local joint.
Walk back towards the shrine for dining options.
JPY900, 1 hour

2:30PM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Head to the beautiful bamboo groves of Arashiyama for a peaceful walk and breathtaking views.
Take the JR Sanin Line from Inari to Saga-Arashiyama Station.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tenryu-ji, known for its Zen gardens and stunning landscape.
A 10-minute walk from the Bamboo Grove.
JPY500, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Yudofu Sagano

Experience yudofu (tofu hot pot) at this lovely restaurant nestled in the green hills.
Take a taxi from Tenryu-ji to Yudofu Sagano.
JPY3500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Heritage and Nature

Kyoto, Japan on January 6, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at % Arabica Coffee

Start your day with a world-renowned coffee at % Arabica, overlooking the beautiful Kyoto scenery.
A short walk from your accommodation.
JPY700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Nijo Castle

Discover the history of Japan at Nijo Castle, famous for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
Take a bus number 101 from your accommodation.
JPY1000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Explore Nishiki Market and grab a variety of quick bites from the many food stalls, giving you a taste of local delicacies.
Take the subway to Shijo Station.
JPY1200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Philosopher's Path

Take a tranquil walk along the Philosopher's Path, lined with cherry trees, where you can reflect and relax.
Walk from Nishiki Market to the start of the Path.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Nanzen-ji Temple

Visit Nanzen-ji, an important Zen temple overlooking the scenic water canal.
A short walk from the Philosopher's Path.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Tofuya Ukai

Enjoy a gorgeous dinner at Tofuya Ukai, known for its tofu dishes surrounded by serene gardens.
A taxi ride will take you to Tofuya Ukai.
JPY5500, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Travel to Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan on January 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a light breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
N/A
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shinkansen to Hiroshima

Catch a Shinkansen to Hiroshima for a historical perspective of Japan.
Walk to Kyoto Station, then take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima.
JPY12000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Okonomimura

Dive into the local specialty, okonomiyaki, at the famous Okonomimura where you can select your own toppings.
Take tram number 2 from Hiroshima Station to Genbaku Dome-mae.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Visit the poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, dedicated to those affected by the atomic bombing.
A short walk from Okonomimura.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Explore the moving exhibitions at the Peace Memorial Museum to further understand Hiroshima's history.
Adjacent to the Peace Memorial Park.
JPY200, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Hassho

Enjoy a vibrant dinner of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Hassho, a local favorite.
Take a tram back to Okonomimura if needed.
JPY1800, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Day Trip to Miyajima

Hiroshima, Japan on January 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before setting off for the day.
N/A
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ferry to Miyajima Island

Catch the ferry to Miyajima Island to see the iconic Floating Torii gate.
Take the JR train to Miyajimaguchi and walk to the ferry port.
JPY4000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Itsukushima Shrine

Visit the UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine, known for its stunning architecture and floating torii gate.
The shrine is a five-minute walk from the ferry terminal.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kakiya

Indulge in grilled oysters at Kakiya, famous for locally sourced ingredients.
A five-minute walk from Itsukushima Shrine.
JPY2500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Mount Misen Hike

Embark on a scenic hike to Mount Misen for stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Take the ropeway to the halfway point, then hike up.
JPY1800, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return Ferry to Hiroshima

Head back via ferry, soaking up the views along the way.
Walk to ferry terminal.
JPY2000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Nagataya

Feast on Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki again, this time at Nagataya, known for its delicious layers.
A short taxi ride from the ferry terminal.
JPY1800, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Onward to Osaka

Osaka, Japan on January 9, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at hotel

Have a light breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
N/A
JPY1000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Shinkansen to Osaka

Travel to Osaka via Shinkansen, ready for more exciting adventures.
Take the Shinkansen from Hiroshima Station to Osaka Station.
JPY3000, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore Dotonbori

Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Dotonbori, famous for its neon lights and mouth-watering street food.
Take the subway from Osaka Station to Namba Station.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Dotonbori Konamon Museum

Experience Osaka's specialty, takoyaki, at this popular food destination where you can even cook your own.
Located in Dotonbori area.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Osaka Castle

Visit the historical Osaka Castle and stroll through the surrounding beautiful park.
Take the subway from Namba to Osakajokoen Station.
JPY600, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Ippudo Ramen

Enjoy a bowl of rich tonkotsu ramen at Ippudo, a famous chain with various locations.
A short subway ride back to Namba.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Osaka Adventures

Osaka, Japan on January 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kafe Kurobuta

Start your day with delicious Japanese breakfast at the popular Kafe Kurobuta.
A short walk from your hotel.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Universal Studios Japan

Spend an exciting day at Universal Studios Japan, home to thrilling rides and attractions, particularly the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Take train from Namba to Universal City Station.
JPY8000, 8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kuromon Market

Enjoy a casual dining experience at Kuromon Market, featuring local favorites like grill skewers and fresh seafood.
Take subway from Universal City back to Namba.
JPY2500, 2 hours
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Day 8: Five Lakes Discovery

Fuji Five Lakes, Japan on January 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your Osaka hotel before departing.
N/A
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Fuji Five Lakes

Take the train to the stunning region of Fuji Five Lakes, a perfect getaway surrounded by nature.
Take the Shinkansen to Otsuki Station, then transfer to the Fujikyu Railway.
JPY6000, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hoto Fudo

Taste the famous hoto noodles, a local specialty of the region, at Hoto Fudo.
Walk from the station to the restaurant.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Lake Kawaguchi Boat Ride

Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Kawaguchi, offering breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji.
Head to the lakeshore, a short walk away.
JPY1500, 1 hour

3:30PM

Oishi Park

Explore Oishi Park with its view of Mt. Fuji, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Take a bus to Oishi Park, 15 minutes away.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Gyoza no Ohsho

Enjoy a casual dinner of gyoza and other local dishes at Gyoza no Ohsho.
Return to Kawaguchi for a short walk.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Exploring More Lakes

Fuji Five Lakes, Japan on January 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at your accommodation.
N/A
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Lake Yamanakako

Travel to Lake Yamanakako to enjoy more stunning views and perhaps a leisurely walk or cycling around the lake.
Take a local bus to Yamanakako.
JPY500, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Yamadaya Honten

Try the local specialty, unagi (grilled eel), at Yamadaya Honten while enjoying lakeside views.
Walk around the lake to the restaurant.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Lake Saiko

Head over to Lake Saiko where you can visit the music forest and appreciate its unique scenery.
Take a bus to Lake Saiko.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Maruhachiya

Savor a delicious dinner with locally made sushi at Maruhachiya, a cozy eatery.
A bus ride back to Kawaguchi.
JPY2200, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Night at the Lakes

Take in a serene night view of Mt. Fuji reflecting on the lakes before resting for the night.
Back to your hotel after dinner.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 10: Disney Fun!

Tokyo, Japan on January 16, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation before heading to Tokyo.
N/A
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Tokyo Disney

Catch a train to Tokyo Disneyland for a day filled with joy and magic.
Take the train from Kawaguchi Station to Maihama Station.
JPY2000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Tokyo Disneyland

Get ready to be enchanted in the magical world of Tokyo Disneyland, with numerous rides and spectacular shows!
Short walk to the entrance.
JPY8500, 8 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ikspiari

Dine at Ikspiari, a shopping and dining complex near Disneyland, offering various cuisine options.
Walk 15 min from the park.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Disney continued!

Tokyo, Japan on January 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ikspiari

Fuel up for another fun-filled day at Ikspiari's breakfast offerings, perfect before heading back to the park.
Short walk from your accommodation.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Enjoy more Tokyo Disneyland

Continue your adventure with more magical rides and attractions throughout Disneyland!
Walk back to the park entrance.
Free (pre-purchased ticket), 8 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Outback Steakhouse

Finish the day with a delightful dinner at Outback Steakhouse, offering hearty meals.
Take a quick train ride to Ikspiari.
JPY3500, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Close the Disney Chapter

Tokyo, Japan on January 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ikspiari

Relish a final breakfast at Ikspiari, taking in the ambiance of your surroundings.
Short walk from your accommodation.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Final Day at Tokyo Disneyland

Spend your last day immersed in the enchantment of Tokyo Disneyland, enjoying everything you've yet to explore.
Walk back to the park entrance.
Free (pre-purchased ticket), 8 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ikspiari

Conclude your magical trip with dinner at Ikspiari, reflecting on the beautiful experiences shared.
A short walk from the park.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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