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Japan: Cherry Blossoms, Ancient Temples & Modern T

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Cindi Sanden, Travel Agent in Soddy Daisy, TN

Cindi Sanden

Soddy Daisy, TN Travel Agent
Super Agent

Cindi Sanden

Soddy Daisy, TN · 11 Years of Experience

An independent agent with AWAKEN TRAVELS, LLC, , a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
4.8
(23)
100% Recommended
The arrangements were very well organized and made the trip and wedding relaxed for all the travel and event. Read More >
DESTINATIONS VISITED:Japan
PLACES VISITED:
SUGGESTED DURATION:8 Days
A 10-day journey through Japan's most iconic destinations, blending ancient traditions with cutting-edge modernity. From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the serene bamboo groves of Kyoto, the deer park of Nara, and the historic peace memorials of Hiroshima, this itinerary captures the essence of Japan. Sample world-class sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market, soak in natural hot springs with views of Mt. Fuji, ride the legendary bullet train between cities, and witness the perfect harmony of old and new that makes Japan one of the most captivating destinations on Earth. Whether you dream of cherry blossom season or autumn foliage, Japan delivers an experience unlike anywhere else.
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DAY1
Japan
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Arrival in Tokyo: Shinjuku & Shibuya
Touch down at Narita or Haneda Airport and take the express train into the heart of Tokyo. Check into your hotel in Shinjuku, then step out to experience Shibuya Crossing, the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world. Explore the neon-lit streets of Shinjuku, visit Meiji Jingu Shrine tucked within a forested park, and end the evening at a traditional izakaya in Omoide Yokocho.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Shibuya Crossing experience
Meiji Jingu Shrine visit
Omoide Yokocho izakaya dinner
Shinjuku neon nightlife
DAY2
Japan
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Tokyo: Asakusa, Tsukiji & Harajuku
Start at the iconic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo oldest and most visited temple, browsing the Nakamise shopping street for traditional crafts and snacks. Continue to Tsukiji Outer Market for the freshest sushi of your life. In the afternoon, contrast old with new in Harajuku, where kawaii culture meets high fashion along Takeshita Street.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Senso-ji Temple morning visit
Tsukiji Outer Market sushi
Harajuku street culture
Omotesando luxury shopping
DAY3
Japan
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Day Trip to Hakone & Mt. Fuji Views
Board the bullet train to Hakone for a day surrounded by natural beauty. Cruise across Lake Ashi with Mt. Fuji reflected in the water, ride the Hakone Ropeway over volcanic valleys, and visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum. End the day soaking in a traditional onsen hot spring bath before returning to Tokyo by evening.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Lake Ashi scenic cruise
Mt. Fuji panoramic views
Hakone Ropeway ride
Traditional onsen experience
DAY4
Japan
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Bullet Train to Kyoto: Temples & Geisha District
Board the Shinkansen bullet train for the thrilling 2-hour ride to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. Visit the stunning Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion, its gold-leaf exterior reflecting in the mirror pond. Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks create an otherworldly tunnel of green. In the evening, stroll through the atmospheric Gion district where geisha still practice their ancient arts.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Shinkansen bullet train ride
Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Gion geisha district evening walk
DAY5
Japan
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Kyoto: Fushimi Inari & Tea Ceremony
Begin at Fushimi Inari Shrine, walking through thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the mountainside. Continue to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a wooden terrace offering sweeping views of Kyoto. Participate in a private tea ceremony where a tea master guides you through the centuries-old ritual of preparing and savoring matcha green tea.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Fushimi Inari torii gate trail
Kiyomizu-dera Temple views
Private tea ceremony experience
Nishiki Market food tasting
DAY6
Japan
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Day Trip to Nara: Deer Park & Great Buddha
Take a short train ride to Nara, Japan first permanent capital. Walk through Nara Park where over 1,000 friendly deer roam freely and bow for treats. Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to a massive bronze Buddha statue standing nearly 50 feet tall inside the largest wooden building in the world. Browse the charming Naramachi merchant district with its traditional townhouses and artisan shops.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Nara Park deer encounters
Todai-ji Great Buddha Hall
Naramachi historic district
Traditional wagashi sweets
DAY7
Japan
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Hiroshima & Miyajima Island
Take the bullet train to Hiroshima and visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a powerful and moving experience that honors resilience and hope. After lunch, ferry to Miyajima Island to see the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, one of Japan most photographed landmarks. Explore the island temples and watch the sunset paint the torii gate golden.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Peace Memorial Park and Museum
Itsukushima floating torii gate
Miyajima Island temples
Momiji manju tasting
DAY8
Japan
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Osaka: Street Food Capital & Departure
Head to Osaka, Japan kitchen city. Walk through Dotonbori, the legendary street food district, sampling takoyaki octopus balls, okonomiyaki savory pancakes, and kushikatsu fried skewers from stalls lining the canal. Visit Osaka Castle and its surrounding park, then explore the vibrant Shinsekai neighborhood before heading to Kansai Airport for your departure.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Dotonbori street food tour
Osaka Castle visit
Shinsekai neighborhood exploration
Takoyaki and okonomiyaki tasting
FINAL THOUGHTS
Japan is a destination that rewards careful planning. The Japan Rail Pass saves hundreds on bullet train travel between cities. Book ryokan stays and popular temples well in advance, especially during cherry blossom season (late March through mid-Apr