Begin your trip to Japan by exploring its bustling capital city, Tokyo. Check out popular attractions such as the Tsukiji Fish Market where you can try fresh sushi, visit the Sensō-ji temple for some traditional culture, and then end your day in Shinjuku for some evening entertainment.
Take a day trip to Mount Fuji, Japan's most famous mountain. The best place to view Mt. Fuji is from Chureito Pagoda in Arakurayama Sengen Park. Afterwards, relax at the nearby Hot Springs and enjoy traditional Japanese bath culture.
Next, head to Kyoto, the cultural centre of Japan. Visit the impressive Fushimi Inari Shrine and mend your spirit. Drop by the Gion District to witness the traditional Japanese geisha culture. End your day at the Kiyomizu Temple, known for its outstanding panoramic views.
From Kyoto, take a day trip to visit the adorable Deer of Nara Park and experience feeding them. Then, drop by the magnificent Tōdai-ji temple which houses a Great Buddha statue, and check out the forest of Wakakusa Mountains with lovely panoramic views.
Take a Shinkansen bullet train from Kyoto to Hiroshima for a profound trip to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum as well, to reflect on Japan's past. End your day eating the famous Okonomiyaki, a cabbage-based Japanese pancake.
While you're in Hiroshima, take a ferry from the Peace Memorial Park to Miyajima Island. Visit the stunning Itsukushima Shrine, which houses a red torii gate that appears to be floating in the water! Along the island's streets, enjoy some traditional Japanese street foods such as momiji manju and oysters.
Next, take a trip to Osaka, the food capital of Japan. You can't miss the Osaka Castle, learn about some Japanese history at the Museum of History Osaka Castle, walk-through mini rail town at Hirakata Park, and eat at Dōtonbori for some local food.
From Osaka, take a day trip to Himeji Castle. The castle's exterior and defense system still remain well-preserved from the feudal period. Visitors can tour inside the castle's six-story main tower, with its outdoor observation deck boasting stunning views.
Experience the historic charm of the town of Takayama and its old wooden homes. First, visit the Old Takayama Jinya which used to serve as government offices during the Edo period. Afterward, stroll around the Sanmachi Suji historic district shops, and enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine, such as Hida beef or Sake.
From Takayama, head to Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage village famous for its traditional farmhouse architecture called "Gassho-zukuri". Visit the Wada House, a museum of a typical farmhouse from the area, or take photos from the Shiroyama observatory that offers stunning views of the village.
End your trip where you started, in Tokyo, and enjoy some last-minute shopping. Stop by the Harajuku Takeshita Street in Harajuku to get some cute Japanese souvenirs or explore the largest fish wholesale market in the world, the Toyosu Market. Finally, enjoy a night walk at Shibuya Crossing and the beautiful night views at Tokyo Skytree.
Getting around Japan is easy, thanks to its efficient public transportation system. The Japan Rail Pass is the most economical and hassle-free way to travel between cities. For local transportation, consider purchasing a prepaid card like the Suica or Pasmo, which can be used for trains, buses, and subways. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive especially for long distance & times.
For those with more time, consider heading north to Sapporo, famous for its winter wonders, Hakodate and Noboribetsu, both known for their hot springs, or visit the Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Travellers with less time can shorten their trip by skipping the Takayama and Shirakawago detours, however, it's worth a visit.
Japan has two main airports: Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT) and Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND). Narita is Tokyo's primary international gateway, and most flights from outside of Asia arrive here. Haneda is the smaller of the two airports and serves mostly domestic flights, but also some international destinations. Both airports are connected with the city centre by various transportation routes such as trains, buses and taxis.