7-Day Cultural and Scenic Adventure Through Japan

Day 1: Tokyo Exploration

Tokyo, Japan on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Enjoy fresh sushi and traditional Japanese breakfast dishes at Tsukiji Outer Market, a lively spot known for its fresh seafood and local delicacies. Open from 5:00am to 2:00pm; best to arrive early for the freshest options.
JPY2000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Meiji Shrine

Explore this serene Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, surrounded by a lush forest in the heart of Tokyo. The shrine is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
JPY0, 1h30m

11:30am

Harajuku & Takeshita Street Stroll

Walk through the colorful and buzzing Takeshita Street in Harajuku, famous for quirky shops, fashion boutiques, and sweet treats.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Afuri Ramen Harajuku

Savor yuzu-flavored ramen at Afuri, known for its light and refreshing ramen bowls made with fresh ingredients.
JPY1200, 1h

2:30pm

Shibuya Crossing & Shopping

Experience the world-famous Shibuya Crossing and explore surrounding shopping centers like Shibuya 109, perfect for fashion enthusiasts.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Enjoy a peaceful late afternoon walk through this spacious garden, blending traditional Japanese, English, and French landscaping. Open until 6:30pm (last admission 6:00pm).
JPY500, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Omoide Yokocho

Dine in the nostalgic alleyways of Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku with small eateries offering yakitori and local dishes in an authentic atmosphere.
JPY3000, 1h30m

Day 2: Hakone Escape

Hakone, Japan on May 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or local café

Start with a traditional Japanese breakfast or western-style cafe fare near your accommodation before heading out.
JPY1500, 1h

8:30am

Travel from Tokyo to Hakone

Take the Odakyu Romancecar express train from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station; journey time roughly 1.5 hours.
JPY2500, 1h30m

10:15am

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Visit this fascinating outdoor sculpture park featuring works by Picasso and other contemporary artists, set against the stunning mountain backdrop. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY1600, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Bakery & Table Hakone

Enjoy freshly baked breads and seasonal dishes with a view of Lake Ashi at this cozy bakery café open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Cruise on Lake Ashi

Take a scenic pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi to enjoy views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding nature. Cruises run from 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY1000, 1h

3:30pm

Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani

Ride the ropeway to Owakudani volcanic valley to see hot springs and sulfur vents; try black eggs boiled in the hot springs said to add seven years to your life.
JPY1800 round trip, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gora Brewery & Grill

Savor craft beers and grilled specialties in a warm, rustic setting popular with visitors. Open for dinner from 5:00pm to 9:00pm.
JPY3500, 1h30m

Day 3: Kyoto Arrival

Kyoto, Japan on May 31, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at guesthouse or local café

Fill up with a healthy breakfast before the journey, featuring local ingredients and Japanese favorites.
JPY1200, 1h

8:00am

Travel from Hakone to Kyoto

Take the train back to Odawara, then board a Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto; total travel time around 3 to 3.5 hours.
JPY13000, 3h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Dive into Kyoto’s culinary street scene at Nishiki Market, tasting a variety of local foods from fresh tofu to pickled vegetables.
JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the iconic thousands of vermilion torii gates up the mountain trail at Fushimi Inari, a must-see landmark open from sunrise to sunset.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Check-in and rest at accommodation

Unwind at your Kyoto hotel or ryokan to recharge for an evening stroll.
Varies, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Kyoto kaiseki cuisine, offering seasonal and beautifully presented dishes in the historic Gion district.
JPY6000, 2h

Day 4: Kyoto Temples

Kyoto, Japan on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Bibliotic Hello!

Taste delicious coffee and light breakfast options in a stylish, bookstore-themed café open from 8:00am.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

See the stunning gold-leaf covered pavilion reflecting on its pond, an iconic and historic Zen temple open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h

11:00am

Ryoan-ji Rock Garden

Experience the famous Zen rock garden with carefully arranged stones symbolizing harmony and contemplation.
JPY500, 45m

12:00pm

Lunch at Okutan Kiyomizu

Enjoy traditional yudofu (tofu hot pot) near Kiyomizu Temple, a relaxing meal known for its simplicity and flavor.
JPY2500, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Walk through this iconic temple complex with panoramic views of Kyoto and stroll the historic streets leading to it, open 6:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

3:30pm

Walk through Higashiyama District

Browse artisan shops and traditional tea houses in Kyoto’s preserved historic district, ideal for souvenirs and photos.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Experience elegant kaiseki cuisine featuring Kyoto’s fine seasonal ingredients; reservation recommended.
JPY8000, 2h

Day 5: Nara and Osaka

Nara and Osaka, Japan on June 2, 2025

7:30am

Early breakfast at hotel

Have a quick breakfast before heading out for the day’s travel and exploration.
JPY1000, 30m

8:00am

Travel to Nara

Take the JR train from Kyoto to Nara, approximately 45 minutes travel time.
JPY710, 45m

9:00am

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site housing the giant Daibutsu (Great Buddha), one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. Open 7:30am to 5:30pm in summer.
JPY600, 1h30m

10:45am

Walk in Nara Park

Enjoy roaming freely with friendly bowing deer throughout this extensive parkland, providing a peaceful nature experience.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Nakatanidou Mochi Shop

Try traditional freshly pounded mochi, renowned for its chewy texture and sweetness.
JPY600, 30m

1:00pm

Travel to Osaka

Short train ride from Nara to Osaka, taking around 45 minutes.
JPY560, 45m

2:00pm

Explore Dotonbori District

Experience Osaka’s vibrant entertainment area with bright neon signs, street food stalls, and bustling shops.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Visit Osaka Castle

Tour the historic Osaka Castle and its extensive park grounds; castle tower open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY600, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Enjoy classic Osaka deep-fried skewers at this popular local chain, a must-try street food experience. Open until 11:00pm.
JPY2500, 1h30m

Day 6: Osaka Delights

Osaka, Japan on June 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Micasadeco & Cafe

Start with fluffy Japanese pancakes and coffee at this popular cafe open from 8:00am.
JPY1500, 1h

9:30am

Visit Umeda Sky Building

Ascend to the Floating Garden Observatory for panoramic views of Osaka cityscape. Open 10:00am to 10:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h

11:00am

Shopping at Grand Front Osaka

Explore this massive shopping and dining complex offering fashion, gadgets, and gourmet experiences.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Endo Sushi, Osaka Central Fish Market

Taste some of the freshest sushi outside Tsukiji, known for quality and value by locals and tourists alike. Open from 7:00am to 2:00pm.
JPY3000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Discover one of the world's largest public aquariums with impressive marine life displays. Open 10:00am to 8:00pm.
JPY2400, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Nakanoshima Park

Enjoy riverside gardens and photo-worthy bridges, a great spot to unwind late afternoon.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Tsurutontan Udon Noodle Brasserie

Delight in creative udon dishes served in a modern setting, popular for its large bowls and innovative flavors.
JPY2000, 1h30m

Day 7: Return to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on June 4, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel up before the journey back to Tokyo.
JPY1200, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Tokyo by Shinkansen

Board the bullet train from Osaka to Tokyo; the journey takes about 2.5 hours.
JPY14000, 2h30m

11:00am

Visit Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo's historic district, including the colorful Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise shopping street with traditional snacks and souvenirs. Open 6:00am to 5:00pm.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Daikokuya Tempura

Taste traditional tempura bowls at this famed Asakusa establishment known for its crispy seafood and vegetable tempura.
JPY2200, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Akihabara

Immerse in the electric town for electronics, anime, manga, and unique themed cafes.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Dine at the izakaya that inspired the famous Kill Bill fight scene, featuring traditional Japanese dishes in a lively setting.
JPY4000, 1h30m