Japan 7 Day Itinerary

Title: 7-Day Japan Itinerary: A Comprehensive Guide for First-Time Travelers

Day 1: Tokyo

  • Arrival at Narita or Haneda Airport. (Remember to check your visa requirements before travel.)
  • Transit: Get a [Suica or Pasmo card](http://www. hyperdia.com/) for convenient train travel throughout Tokyo and other cities.
  • Visit Tsukiji Fish Market for sushi breakfast, then head to Asakusa to explore Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street.
  • In the evening, visit Shibuya Crossing and experience the busiest intersection in the world.

Day 2: Tokyo (Continued)

  • Morning: Takeshita Street in Harajuku for unique fashion culture and crepe shops.
  • Afternoon: Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park.
  • Evening: Odaiba Island to see the Rainbow Bridge, visit teamLab Borderless (digital art museum) or Ferris wheel.

Day 3: Nikko

  • Day trip from Tokyo (approx. 2 hours by train).
  • Visit Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Explore Nikko National Park and Lake Chuzenji.

Day 4: Hakone

  • Day trip from Tokyo (approx. 1.5 hours by train and cable car).
  • Visit the Open-Air Museum with over 120 modern and contemporary sculptures.
  • Enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi and ride the Hakone Ropeway for views of Mt. Fuji.

Day 5: Kyoto

  • Morning Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Kyoto.
  • Afternoon: Fushimi Inari Shrine with its famous vermilion torii gates.
  • Evening: Gion district for traditional tea houses and potential sightings of Geishas.

Day 6: Kyoto (Continued)

  • Morning: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning views over Kyoto.
  • Afternoon: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Sagano Romantic Train Ride.
  • Evening: Explore the Philosopher’s Path and Pontocho Alley.

Day 7: Nara

  • Day trip from Kyoto (approx. 1 hour by train).
  • Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue.
  • Deer Park Nara for a unique experience with friendly deer roaming freely.
  • Return to Osaka or Tokyo for departure.

Throughout your trip:

  • Be respectful of customs and temples etiquette (e.g., no shoes, dress modestly).
  • Use cash as well as credit cards in restaurants and shops.
  • Download a reliable offline map app for navigation.
  • Enjoy the delicious local cuisine, from sushi to ramen!