Japan 7-Day Itinerary

Go to Shibuya Sky observation deck (book in advance, ₹3,000 yen) for the iconic overhead view of the world's busiest pedestrian crossing. Late afternoon is best.

Golden Gai (200+ tiny bars in six alleys) is the best spot for atmosphere. Each bar seats 5–8 people. Pick one that looks interesting — locals will make you feel welcome.

Arrive before 8 AM to see the temple with far fewer crowds. The Nakamise shopping street leading to the temple is packed with snacks and souvenirs — arrive early and browse freely.

Book tickets 3–4 weeks in advance online. TeamLab Planets is the more intimate and more impactful of the two TeamLab experiences in Tokyo. Go on weekday mornings.

Take the Romancecar train from Shinjuku (1hr 25min, ¥2,470 reserved seat). The Owakudani gondola gives Japan's best accessible Fuji views on clear days. Check the Fuji webcam at fujisan-3776.jp before going.

Take the earliest possible Shinkansen (Nozomi, 2hrs 15min, ¥14,720). Head STRAIGHT to Arashiyama — arrive by 8:30 AM before tour buses. The bamboo grove at dawn with almost nobody there is surreal.

Adjacent to the bamboo grove — same ticket (¥1,000) AND absolutely magnificent Zen garden. The garden's designed 'borrowed scenery' framing the Arashiyama mountains has been unchanged for 700 years.

The iconic 10,000 vermillion torii gate tunnel. Start hiking by 6 AM — you'll have the lower gates virtually to yourself. The full 4-hour hike to the mountain summit is extraordinary and almost entirely crowd-free above the first km.

Walk through Hanamikoji Street in Gion at dusk (6–7 PM). You may spot a maiko (apprentice geisha) hurrying to an evening appointment — never touch or chase them for photos. The architecture is intact 17th-century ochaya teahouse streetscape.

Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto (45 min, ¥740). Feed the wild bowing deer (buy shika senbei crackers for ¥200). Todai-ji houses the world's largest bronze Buddha — genuinely awe-inspiring.

Walk along the canal under the giant Glico running man sign. This is Japan's most exuberant entertainment district — neon, food, noise, and energy. Take the Kintetsu Limited Express Kyoto→Osaka (35 min).

The castle exterior (rebuilt 1931) is magnificent. Cherry blossom season (late March–April) turns Nishinomaru Garden into one of Japan's most stunning spots. Go inside for the history museum.

Osaka's legendary 580-metre covered food market. Eat at the stalls directly — fresh crab, raw oysters, wagyu skewers, and melons. Go in the morning when everything is fresh.