4 Weeks in Japan Itinerary

• Day 1-3: Tokyo Essentials Start your adventure in Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital. Begin with a visit to the Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian scramble. Explore the vibrant streets of Shinjuku, where you’ll find shopping, dining, and the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. Don’t miss the historical Asakusa district, home to the Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple.

• Day 4-5: Cultural Insights Dive into Tokyo’s rich culture by visiting the Meiji Shrine in Shibuya and strolling through Harajuku for unique fashion and quirky shops. Head to Akihabara for electronics and anime culture, then experience the serene atmosphere of Ueno Park and its museums, including the Tokyo National Museum.

• Day 6-7: Tokyo Day Trips Take a day trip to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning temples and natural beauty. Alternatively, visit Hakone for its hot springs and views of Mount Fuji. Return to Tokyo for a final evening of shopping in Ginza.

Week 2: Kyoto – The Ancient Capital

• Day 8-10: Historical Kyoto Travel to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, and start with the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. Explore Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion), an exquisite Zen temple covered in gold leaf. Wander through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and visit the nearby Tenryu-ji Temple.

• Day 11-12: Traditional Experiences Immerse yourself in Kyoto’s traditional culture by participating in a tea ceremony and exploring the Gion District, known for its geisha and traditional wooden machiya houses. Visit the serene Kiyomizu-dera Temple for panoramic views of the city.

• Day 13-14: Kyoto Day Trips Take a short trip to Nara, home to the impressive Todai-ji Temple and friendly deer roaming in Nara Park. Alternatively, visit the picturesque Kurama and Kibune villages in the northern mountains of Kyoto.

Week 3: Osaka – The Culinary Hub

• Day 15-17: Osaka Highlights Arrive in Osaka and start with the lively Dotonbori area, famous for its street food and neon lights. Explore Osaka Castle, a historic landmark with a modern museum inside. Stroll through Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Tower for a nostalgic experience of old Osaka.

• Day 18-19: Modern and Traditional Osaka Visit the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the world’s largest, and explore Universal Studios Japan for a fun day out. Discover the hidden charms of the Namba and Umeda districts, known for shopping and entertainment.

• Day 20-21: Osaka Day Trips Venture to Himeji Castle, Japan’s most spectacular castle and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Alternatively, visit Kobe to experience its famous beef and beautiful harbor area.

Week 4: Hiroshima and Miyajima – The Historical and Natural Wonders

• Day 22-23: Hiroshima’s Legacy Arrive in Hiroshima and visit the Peace Memorial Park, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing. Explore the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the A-Bomb Dome. Spend an evening enjoying Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake dish.

• Day 24-25: Miyajima Island Take a ferry to Miyajima Island, famous for the Itsukushima Shrine with its floating torii gate. Enjoy hiking up Mount Misen for panoramic views and explore the charming streets of Miyajima Town.

• Day 26-28: Final Days in Japan Return to Tokyo for your final days in Japan. Revisit favorite spots or explore new areas such as Odaiba for futuristic architecture and entertainment. Shop for souvenirs in Akihabara and enjoy a final dinner in a local izakaya.