Japan 4 Day Itinerary

Title: 4-Day Japan Itinerary for First-Time Travelers

Day 1: Tokyo (東京)

Places to Go:

  1. Tsukiji Fish Market (筑島市場): Start your day early with a sushi breakfast at one of the sushi shops in the outer market.
  2. Asakusa (浅草) & Senso-ji Temple: Visit this historic district and explore Nakamise Shopping Street before reaching the Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple.
  3. Akihabara (秋葉原): For anime and manga lovers, this is a must-visit place. Don’t forget to check out the maid cafes!
  4. Shibuya Crossing (渋谷スクランブルコーニング): Experience the world’s busiest intersection and visit Hachiko statue nearby.
  5. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (新宿御苑): Relax and enjoy the beautiful landscape of this large public garden.

Things to Know:

  • Tokyo can be overwhelming due to its size and complexity. Use a reliable map or navigation app to get around.
  • Queues for popular attractions can be long, so try to arrive early.
  • Cash is still widely used in Japan, but credit cards are accepted in most tourist areas.

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of 68 countries and regions, including the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and most European countries, can enter Japan visa-free for stays up to 90 days. Check if your country is included here.

Transportation:

  • The Tokyo Metro and JR East trains are the most convenient ways to get around the city. A prepaid Suica or Pasmo card is a smart choice for unlimited travel.

Day 2: Nikko (日光)

Places to Go:

  1. Toshogu Shrine (東照宮): Famous for its ornate architecture and intricate carvings.
  2. Rinno-ji Temple (林荼寺): Home to the Nikko Futarasan Shrine and the Three Wisdoms Stupa.
  3. Lake Chuzenji (中禅寺湖): Take a scenic bus ride or boat tour around this beautiful lake.
  4. Kegon Falls (華厳の滝): Marvel at Japan’s tallest falling waterfall.

Things to Know:

  • Nikko is approximately 2 hours by train from Tokyo. You can take a direct JR train or change at Utsunomiya Station.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

Day 3: Kyoto (京都)

Places to Go:

  1. Fushimi Inari Shrine (伏見稲荷大社): Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates.
  2. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (嵐山竹林): A peaceful, serene forest of bamboo trees.
  3. Kiyomizudera Temple (清水寺): One of Kyoto’s most famous temples with stunning views over the city.
  4. Gion District (祇園): Take a traditional wooden machiya walking tour and maybe spot a Geisha!

Things to Know:

  • Kyoto is approximately 2 hours by Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo. The JR Pass can be used for this trip.
  • Respectful clothing is expected in temples, with knees and shoulders covered.

Day 4: Nara (奈良)

Places to Go:

  1. Todai-ji Temple (東大寺): Home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue.
  2. Nara Park (奈良公園): Deer-spotting heaven! Feed the friendly deer with special crackers purchased from vendors in the park.
  3. Horyu-ji Temple (宝隆寺): One of Japan’s oldest temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Things to Know:

  • Nara is approximately 1 hour by train from Kyoto. The JR Pass can be used for this trip.
  • Be respectful of the deer, but don’t let them nibble on your clothes!

Enjoy your adventure in Japan! Remember to appreciate the beauty and richness of Japanese culture and traditions while you travel. Safe travels!