Japan is a treasure chest of experiences waiting to be explored. With a week at your disposal, you can uncover a perfect mix of the iconic and the hidden gems. Get ready for a journey that takes you from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, and beyond. Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and let’s dive into this week-long itinerary that will leave you craving for more.
Day 1: Tokyo – The city that never sleeps
Morning: Land at Narita International Airport (NRT) and take the Narita Express to Shinjuku (about 1 hour). Check into your hotel and freshen up. Grab a quick breakfast at a local convenience store; they have some surprisingly good options.
Afternoon: Head to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden for a leisurely stroll. Enjoy the cherry blossoms if you’re visiting in spring. Afterward, have lunch at Ichiran Ramen in Shibuya. Their tonkotsu ramen is so good it might just make you weep.
Evening: Visit the famous Shibuya Crossing and snap a selfie with the Hachiko Statue. After that, dine at Genki Sushi, where you can experience sushi on a conveyor belt. Don’t be shy; those little plates won’t bite!
Day 2: Day trip to Hakone – Hot springs and views
Morning: Take the Romancecar train from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto (1.5 hours). Start your day at the Hakone Open-Air Museum where art and nature collide in a most Instagrammable way.
Afternoon: Ride the Hakone Ropeway for jaw-dropping views of Mt. Fuji. Stop for lunch at a lakeside restaurant; the view might distract you from your meal, but it’s worth it. After lunch, take a dip in one of the many onsen (hot springs) in the area. Just remember, bathing suits are a big no-no here.
Evening: Return to Tokyo by train (1.5 hours) and enjoy a light dinner at a local izakaya in Shinjuku. Get ready for some serious culinary adventure as you try various small plates.
Day 3: Kyoto – Temples and tranquility
Morning: Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto via the Shinkansen (bullet train, about 2.5 hours). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and grab a matcha latte to get in the spirit of things.
Afternoon: Visit the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). Its reflection in the pond is perfect for that postcard shot. Next, head to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Walk through the towering stalks of bamboo; they make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
Evening: Dine at a traditional kaiseki restaurant. It’s like a culinary performance with multiple courses. Don’t forget to thank the chef; they probably put a lot of effort into that artful arrangement.
Day 4: Kyoto – More culture, less rush
Morning: Start your day early at Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. The hike up the mountain is worth the effort, and you’ll earn those calories back during lunch.
Afternoon: Explore the historic Gion district, where you might catch a glimpse of a geisha. Grab lunch at a local soba shop and enjoy the simplicity of handmade noodles.
Evening: Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple for sunset views over the city. Afterward, head to Pontocho Alley for dinner. This narrow lane is packed with restaurants, and you can find anything from yakitori to upscale dining.
Day 5: Osaka – Food and fun
Morning: Take a quick train ride to Osaka (about 15 minutes). Start your day at Osaka Castle, where you can learn about its rich history and enjoy the surrounding park.
Afternoon: Head to Dotonbori, the food district. Sample street food like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). Your taste buds will thank you later.
Evening: Don’t miss the neon lights of Dotonbori at night. Try a local bar for some drinks; the atmosphere will keep you buzzing, quite literally.
Day 6: Nara – A day with friendly deer
Morning: Take a train to Nara (about 45 minutes). Visit Nara Park where the deer roam freely. They’re cute but be careful, they might try to nibble on your clothes.
Afternoon: Explore Todai-ji Temple, home to a giant Buddha statue. It’s a sight that’ll make you go “Whoa!” Grab lunch at a local café nearby; their matcha dessert is a must-try.
Evening: Return to Osaka and enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local izakaya. Engage with the locals; they love sharing their favorite spots.
Day 7: Back to Tokyo – Last-minute adventures
Morning: Take the Shinkansen back to Tokyo (2.5 hours). Visit the historic Asakusa district and Senso-ji Temple. Don’t forget to try the melon bread from a street vendor; it’s delicious.
Afternoon: Spend some time shopping in Akihabara, the mecca for tech lovers and anime fans. You can find everything from vintage video games to the latest gadgets.
Evening: For your last meal, consider dining at a themed restaurant, like a ninja or robot-themed spot. It’s a fun way to wrap up your adventure in Japan. Don’t forget to take a million pictures; your friends will want proof that you had the time of your life.
Japan packs a punch in just a week. From the chaos of Tokyo to the serenity of Kyoto, each moment will linger with you long after you leave. So grab your passport and prepare for an unforgettable journey! Who knows, you might even want to come back for more.
