Japan-5-day-itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Japan

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Places to Go:

  • Shibuya Crossing: One of the busiest intersections in the world, surrounded by shopping districts and entertainment venues.
  • Tokyo Tower: For panoramic views of the city.

Activities:

  • Explore the trendy Shibuya area, including fashion and electronics shopping.
  • Visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a free observation deck with great views of the city.

Things to Know:

  • Japan has a unique address system; some places might be hard to find without a map or directions from locals. Make sure to learn basic Japanese phrases like “konnichiwa” (hello) and “arigatou” (thank you).
  • Be prepared for crowds and lines, especially during peak travel seasons.

Transportation:

  • Take the train to Shibuya Station on the JR Yamanote Line.
  • Buy a prepaid IC card like Suica or Pasmo for easy travel on public transportation.

Visa Requirements:

  • As a tourist, you can enter Japan with a visa-free policy. Check your nationality and requirements before traveling.

Day 2: Tokyo

Places to Go:

  • Meiji Shrine: Dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken.
  • Tsukiji Outer Market: For sushi and seafood.

Activities:

  • Visit the famous Tsukiji Fish Market in the early morning for a sushi-making experience.
  • Explore the beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere at the Meiji Shrine.

Things to Know:

  • Be respectful of shrines and temples by dressing modestly and following local customs.
  • Don’t eat on the go or while walking; it’s considered impolite in Japanese culture.

Transportation:

  • Take the subway (Hibiya Line) from Shibuya Station to Meiji Shrine.
  • Walk to Tsukiji Outer Market from the Tsukiji Station.

Day 3: Travel to Kyoto

Places to Go:

  • Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates forming a tunnel up the mountain.
  • Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): A Zen temple covered in gold leaf.

Activities:

  • Hike through the vermilion gate tunnels at Fushimi Inari Shrine.
  • Visit the serene gardens and peaceful atmosphere at Kinkaku-ji.

Things to Know:

  • Be prepared for crowds and lines, especially during peak travel seasons.
  • Respect local customs by dressing modestly and removing your shoes when required.

Transportation:

  • Take the bullet train (Shinkansen) from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station.
  • Buy a prepaid IC card like ICOCA or SUICA for easy travel on public transportation.

Day 4: Explore Kyoto

Places to Go:

  • Gion District: Famous for geisha culture and traditional Japanese architecture.
  • Nijo Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage site known as the “Night Palace” due to its clever use of nightingale floors that squeak when walked upon.

Activities:

  • Visit the beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere at Nijo Castle.
  • Explore the narrow streets and charming shops in Gion District.

Things to Know:

  • Be prepared for crowds and lines, especially during peak travel seasons.
  • Respect local customs by dressing modestly and removing your shoes when required.

Transportation:

  • Take the subway (Karasuma Line) from Kyoto Station to Nijo Castle.
  • Walk to Gion District from the Kawaramon Gate in the city center.

Day 5: Return to Tokyo

Places to Go:

  • Akihabara: Known as “Electric Town,” a hub for technology and electronics shopping.
  • Imperial Palace East Garden: A beautiful oasis in the heart of the city.

Activities:

  • Visit the historic Imperial Palace East Garden.
  • Explore the trendy shops and cafes in Akihabara District.

Things to Know:

  • Be prepared for crowds and lines, especially during peak travel seasons.
  • Respect local customs by dressing modestly and removing your shoes when required.

Transportation:

  • Take the bullet train (Shinkansen) from Kyoto Station back to Tokyo Station.
  • Buy a prepaid IC card like SUICA or PASMO for easy travel on public transportation.