7 Days in Japan: The Classic Golden Path
Day-by-Day Timeline
Day 1: Neon Beginnings in Tokyo
Explore Historic Asakusa
Walk through Kaminarimon Gate to Senso-ji Temple.
Futuristic Odaiba
Visit teamLab Borderless digital art museum and take in the Rainbow Bridge views.
Shinjuku Izakaya Tour
Dine on grilled yakitori skewers in Omoide Yokocho alleyway.
Day 2: Shrines and Shibuya Beats
Meiji Jingu Shrine
Stroll through the massive cedar forest surrounding this sacred Shinto shrine.
Harajuku Street Culture
Try crepes and browse quirky boutiques on Takeshita Street.
Shibuya Sky
Observe the Shibuya Crossing from 229 meters high.
Day 3: Bullet Train to Cultural Kyoto
Shinkansen Journey
Board the Nozomi Bullet Train towards Kyoto (2.5 hours).
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from the massive wooden stage.
Evening walk in Gion
Walk along the stone paths of Hanamikoji, looking for geiko and maiko.
Day 4: Golden Pavilions and Bamboo Groves
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Beat the crowds for a peaceful walk through the towering bamboo forest.
Tenryu-ji Temple
Stroll through one of Kyoto's finest Zen gardens, unchanged since the 14th century.
Kinkaku-ji
Marvel at the reflection of the golden temple on the pond.
Day 5: The Gates of Fushimi Inari & Osaka Lights
Fushimi Inari Shrine Hike
Hike early through thousands of red torii gates winding up Mount Inari.
Travel to Osaka
Take the local rapid train to Osaka (45 mins). Check in.
Dotonbori Street Food Feast
Try fresh takoyaki and kushikatsu under the giant neon billboards.
Day 6: Feudal Castles and Vintage Districts
Osaka Castle Park
Tour the historic castle tower and enjoy the surrounding gardens.
Retro Shinsekai
Explore the vintage shops and eat lunch beneath the Tsutenkaku Tower.
Umeda Sky Building
Observe the vast Osaka skyline at night from the Floating Garden Observatory.
Day 7: Farewell Japan
Souvenir Shopping in Shinsaibashi
Buy matcha treats and local souvenirs to bring home.
Kansai Airport Express
Board the Haruka train directly to Kansai Airport (KIX).