5-Day Cultural and Culinary Exploration of Japan

Day 1: Tokyo Highlights

Tokyo, Japan on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Enjoy fresh sushi and traditional Japanese breakfast delicacies at the famous Tsukiji Outer Market, which opens early and offers a vibrant atmosphere.
JPY2000, 1h30m

10:00am

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo's oldest temple in Asakusa, known for its iconic Thunder Gate and shopping street Nakamise-dori, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Asakusa Imahan

Savor a sukiyaki or shabu-shabu meal in a traditional setting, famous for its high-quality wagyu beef near the Senso-ji area.
JPY4000, 1h30m

2:30pm

Stroll through Ueno Park and visit Tokyo National Museum

Enjoy a peaceful walk in Ueno Park followed by viewing Japan’s largest collection of traditional art and artifacts at Tokyo National Museum, open until 5:00pm.
JPY620, 2h

5:00pm

Explore Akihabara

Discover the vibrant electric town filled with anime shops, electronics, and unique cafes; perfect for tech enthusiasts and pop culture fans.
Free to explore, shopping varies, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ichiran Ramen, Shibuya

Dine at Ichiran for a unique, focused ramen experience known for its rich tonkotsu broth and personalized ordering system.
JPY1000, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Modern and Historic Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on May 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at AIN SOPH. Ripple

Enjoy a plant-based breakfast with fluffy pancakes or healthy bowls in Shinjuku, open from 7:30am.
JPY1500, 1h

9:00am

Visit Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park

Experience the serene Meiji Shrine and enjoy a walk through Yoyogi Park, an oasis in the heart of Tokyo.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Explore Harajuku Takeshita Street

Browse trendy boutiques, quirky shops, and sample crepes in this famous youth fashion district.
Free to explore, shopping varies, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Afuri Ramen Harajuku

Taste yuzu-flavored ramen at Afuri, known for its light and refreshing broth.
JPY1200, 1h

2:00pm

TeamLab Planets Museum

Immerse in this interactive digital art museum featuring stunning visuals and immersive experiences; open until 8:00pm.
JPY3200, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Odaiba

Enjoy the waterfront, shopping, and entertainment complex including views of Rainbow Bridge and the Statue of Liberty replica.
Free to explore, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Known as the ‘Kill Bill’ restaurant, savor yakitori and traditional Japanese dishes in a lively atmosphere.
JPY3500, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Cultural Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on May 15, 2025

7:00am

Shinkansen Ride to Kyoto

Take the bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto (about 2h20m), providing fast and comfortable travel.
JPY14000, 2h20m

10:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start with a classic Kyoto-style breakfast and coffee at this beloved local cafe.
JPY1000, 1h

11:00am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore this stunning golden temple set amidst beautiful gardens; open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample a variety of traditional street foods and snacks in Kyoto’s famous market, perfect for a casual and diverse lunch.
Varies depending on selections, about JPY2000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Walk through Gion District

Wander the historic geisha district with traditional wooden machiya houses and potential sightings of geiko and maiko.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Explore the vibrant shrine located at the end of Shijo Avenue, open all day, great for evening calm ambiance.
Free, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine in a traditional setting along this narrow alley with a selection of restaurants offering kaiseki and local cuisine.
JPY5000, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Historic Temples and Nature

Kyoto, Japan on May 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee Kyoto

Enjoy specialty coffee and light pastries at this popular café with scenic views by the Kamo River.
JPY800, 1h

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the iconic torii gate pathway at this famous Shinto shrine, open 24 hours, offering early morning tranquility.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Vermillion - espresso bar & info

A cozy spot near Fushimi Inari offering quality coffee and light meals perfect for a refresh break.
JPY1200, 1h

1:00pm

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple

Walk through the breathtaking bamboo forest and explore the UNESCO-listed Tenryu-ji Temple gardens, open 8:30am to 5:30pm.
Temple admission JPY500, 2h30m

4:00pm

Boat Ride on Katsura River

Enjoy a peaceful boat ride down the Katsura River with beautiful mountain and forest views (seasonal availability).
JPY1500, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Shoraian

Indulge in traditional tofu cuisine in a serene setting along the river in Arashiyama.
JPY4000, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Osaka Urban Adventure

Osaka, Japan on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Travel from Kyoto to Osaka

Take a short train ride (about 15 minutes) from Kyoto to Osaka, allowing maximum time to explore the city.
JPY560, 15m

8:30am

Breakfast at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Sample fresh seafood, takoyaki, and local street foods in this bustling market known as Osaka’s kitchen.
JPY1500, 1h

10:00am

Visit Osaka Castle

Discover the history of this iconic landmark set in a beautiful park, featuring a museum and panoramic city views; open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY600, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Dotonbori Street

Enjoy the vibrant food scene along the Dotonbori canal, famous for okonomiyaki and kushikatsu specialties.
JPY2000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Explore Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Shop or browse high-end boutiques and department stores in Osaka’s premier shopping district.
Free to explore, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Umeda Sky Building

Head to the Floating Garden Observatory for panoramic views of Osaka city; open until 10:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Mizuno Okonomiyaki

Taste the iconic Osaka okonomiyaki at Mizuno, loved for its traditional flavors and lively atmosphere.
JPY1500, 1h
View Hotel Availability