7-Day Autumn Hiking and Culinary Journey through Japan from Los Angeles

Day 1: Arrival and Urban Exploration

Tokyo, Japan on November 10, 2025

8:00am

Arrive in Tokyo (Haneda or Narita Airport)

Fly overnight from Los Angeles to Tokyo, landing in the morning to maximize your day. You will get accustomed to the time zone and prepare for your week ahead.
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10:00am

Visit Meiji Shrine

Experience the serene forested grounds of this Shinto shrine located near Harajuku, a peaceful start before exploring the bustling city.
JPY0, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Afuri Harajuku

Enjoy their famous yuzu shio ramen, a light and citrusy broth perfect for a fresh Japanese culinary experience.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Walk in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

A beautiful garden ideal for gentle walking to discover autumn colors starting to emerge, open daily 9am-4:30pm.
JPY500, 2h0m

4:00pm

Check-in at hotel in Shinjuku

Relax and freshen up preparing for dinner.
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7:00pm

Dinner at Omoide Yokocho

Dine at various cozy izakayas with grilled skewers and seasonal dishes, perfect for experiencing Tokyo’s nightlife and local flavors.
JPY3000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Historic Hiking Adventure

Nikko, Japan on November 11, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a Japanese-style breakfast buffet to fuel up for hiking.
Included in hotel, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel to Nikko (2 hours by train)

Head north to Nikko, known for its UNESCO World Heritage sites and scenic mountain trails, ideal for hiking in autumn.
JPY3000, 2h0m

10:30am

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore the lavishly decorated shrine complex highlighting Japan’s Edo period culture and architecture.
JPY1300, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Savor hearty Nikko-style yakisoba and other homey Japanese dishes in this popular spot near the station.
JPY1000, 1h0m

1:30pm

Hiking the Kanmangafuchi Abyss Trail

Enjoy a scenic easy 2km hike along a lava cliff with dozens of Jizo statues lined along the path, perfect for autumn foliage views, open daily.
JPY0, 2h0m

4:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Travel back to Tokyo by train to rest or prepare for the next day’s journey.
JPY3000, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Sushi Zanmai

Delight in fresh sushi with good value near Tsukiji outer market, open till late.
JPY4000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Mountain and Onsen Relaxation

Hakone, Japan on November 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Eat a balanced Japanese breakfast to prepare for the mountain and hiking day.
Included in hotel, 1h0m

8:30am

Travel to Hakone (about 2 hours by train)

Hakone is a mountainous town famous for hot springs and scenic views of Mount Fuji, perfect for hiking and relaxation.
JPY2400, 2h0m

11:00am

Hike Hakone Old Tokaido Road

Walk a historic trail passing through cedar-lined paths that date back to the Edo period, approximately 3-4 hours hike suitable for moderate hikers.
JPY0, 4h0m

3:00pm

Lunch at Bakery & Table Hakone

Enjoy freshly baked bread and coffee with a view of Lake Ashinoko, a perfect break after hiking.
JPY1500, 1h0m

4:30pm

Relax in an Onsen (Hot spring)

Soak in one of Hakone’s many traditional hot springs to soothe your muscles and enjoy the autumn mountain atmospheres.
JPY1500, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Gora Brewery & Grill

Indulge in local craft beer and charcoal-grilled dishes in a stylish mountain setting.
JPY3500, 1h30m
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Day 4: Cultural Kyoto Experience

Kyoto, Japan on November 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hakone hotel

Typical Japanese set breakfast to energize the day.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel to Kyoto (approx. 2.5 hours by Shinkansen)

Journey by bullet train to Kyoto, the heart of traditional Japanese culture and temples.
JPY14000, 2h30m

11:00am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

See the stunning golden eastern Buddhist temple reflected perfectly in its surrounding pond, especially beautiful during autumn colors.
JPY400, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Katsukura Kyoto Tower

Taste authentic tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet), crispy and flavorful, a local favorite.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine

Hike the famous torii gate path up to the mountain summit, surrounded by thousands of vermilion gates, open 24/7 for flexible hiking hours.
JPY0, 2h30m

5:00pm

Hotel check-in in Kyoto

Relax and refresh after a day of cultural immersion.
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7:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Enjoy traditional Kyoto kaiseki cuisine in one of the atmospheric dining establishments along the historic riverside alley.
JPY6000, 2h0m
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Day 5: Nature and Bamboo Groves

Arashiyama, Japan on November 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Healthy Japanese breakfast to prepare for nature day.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Travel to Arashiyama (30 minutes from Kyoto)

Easily access the peaceful outskirts of Kyoto perfect for hiking and nature walks.
JPY500, 0h30m

9:00am

Hike through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and surrounding hills

Explore the iconic bamboo forest early before crowds and hike nearby paths for panoramic views over the Katsura River and mountains.
JPY0, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Enjoy tofu specialty dishes prepared with local ingredients while overlooking the river.
JPY3500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple and Gardens

Take a calm stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing exquisite garden landscaping reflecting seasonal autumn colors.
JPY500, 1h0m

4:00pm

Return to Kyoto

Head back to the city for some free time and rest.
JPY500, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gogyo Ramen

Try the celebrated burnt miso ramen with a rich smoky flavor, a culinary treat after a long day of walking.
JPY1500, 1h0m
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Day 6: Historical Nara and Deer Park

Nara, Japan on November 15, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Kyoto hotel

Get ready for a day trip with a nutritious breakfast.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel to Nara (45 minutes by train)

Reach Nara famous for its friendly free-roaming deer and significant temples.
JPY700, 0h45m

9:00am

Hike around Nara Park and Kasuga Taisha

Enjoy walking amongst autumn foliage with deer companions and visit the renowned Kasuga Shrine with beautiful lanterns, open 6am–6pm.
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12:30pm

Lunch at Edogawa Naramachi

Relish delicious unagi (grilled eel) dishes beloved in the region, perfect for an energy boost.
JPY2500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Todai-ji Temple

See the massive Daibutsu (Great Buddha), one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world.
JPY600, 1h0m

3:30pm

Return to Kyoto

Head back to Kyoto for your final night in the city.
JPY700, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Kyoto Gogyo or Ichiran Ramen

Choose to enjoy another bowl of rich ramen or savor Kyoto-style cuisine as you reflect on your trip.
JPY1500, 1h0m
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Day 7: Departure and Last-Day Exploration

Osaka, Japan on November 16, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast in Kyoto

Final Japanese breakfast at your hotel before transfer.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel to Osaka (15 minutes by Shinkansen or train)

Short transfer to Osaka for a quick urban exploration before flying home.
JPY1500, 0h15m

9:00am

Explore Osaka Castle Park

Visit the iconic Osaka Castle surrounded by colorful autumn leaves, with beautiful gardens and history museum inside.
JPY600, 1h30m

11:00am

Lunch at Dotonbori Street

Savor Osaka’s street food specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki in a lively atmosphere.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:00pm

Head to Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Allow ample time for international flight check-in and security for your flight back to Los Angeles.
JPY2000, 1h0m

4:30pm

Depart Osaka for Los Angeles

Fly back to Los Angeles, ending your memorable autumn hiking and culinary week in Japan.
USD0, 10h0m
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