Japan, the land of the rising sun, ancient culture and advanced technology, beckons travelers from all over the world. If you have only a week to explore this amazing country, it is important to carefully plan your itinerary to see the most interesting things. This article will help you navigate and create an unforgettable trip. Learn about the best itineraries, tours, sights and interesting places to visit in seven days.
Japan’s top attractions
Before you plan your 7-day Japan itinerary, it’s important to decide on the main points of attraction. Undoubtedly on the must-see list:
- Tokyo, the capital of Japan, which combines ultra-modern skyscrapers and traditional temples. Here you can visit the Imperial Palace, the Shibuya neighborhood with its famous crossroads, and sample authentic Japanese cuisine. Don’t forget to look for airfare to Tokyo in advance to make your trip more profitable.
- Kyoto, the former capital of Japan, is famous for its temples, gardens and geishas. Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Shrine with thousands of red torii gates and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove are the city’s calling cards.
- Osaka is the culinary capital of Japan, known for its street food and lively atmosphere. Here you can visit the Samurai Castle, the Kayukan Aquarium and the Dotonbori district with its colorful signage.
- Hiroshima is a city with a tragic history, but today it is a symbol of peace and hope. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Museum are a must-see.
- Mount Fuji is the symbol of Japan, a sacred mountain that can be seen from afar or even climbed depending on the season. It is open to tourists from July 1 to August 31, with peak season in August.
What to see in Japan in 7 days?
There are many options for a seven-day Japan itinerary, and it all depends on your interests. Here are some popular options:
- Classic itinerary: Tokyo (3 days) – Kyoto (3 days) – Osaka (1 day). This itinerary will allow you to experience the most iconic places in Japan.
- Cultural itinerary: Kyoto (4 days) – Nara (1 day) – Osaka (2 days). This itinerary is suitable for those interested in the history and culture of Japan.
- Nature Route: Hakone (2 days) – Mount Fuji (1 day) – Kanazawa (2 days) – Takayama (2 days). This itinerary is ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Many companies offer sightseeing tours in Japan, including visits to the main sights, accommodation and transportation. This is a great option for those who do not want to organize a trip on their own.
How to organize a trip to Japan on your own?
And if you still don’t want to ask for help, this part is for you. Organizing a trip to Japan on your own is a doable task. Here are some tips:
- Book your hotel in advance – and significantly in advance: especially if you are planning a trip during peak season (in spring – cherry blossoms, in fall – red maple season). Use the airfare search service and book your hotel to get the best prices and selection. Pay attention to the best hotels in Japan with convenient location and good reviews.
- Purchase a Japan Rail Pass. If you plan to travel a lot on trains, this can be a very cost-effective option.
- research the transportation system. Japan’s public transportation system is one of the most efficient in the world.
- Download useful apps: for example, translation, navigation, and transportation booking apps.
- Plan your program in advance to make the most of your time.
Where to go in Japan if you have a layover?
If you have a few hours between flights in Japan, you can visit some interesting places close to the airport. For example, from Narita Airport, you can easily get to Narita City, where the famous Narita-San Shrine is located. From Haneda Airport, you can take a quick drive to Tokyo and visit, for example, the Odaiba district or any of the attractions mentioned above. The main thing is to keep an eye on the time.
If you want something more unusual, pay attention to author’s tours to Japan, which offer unique itineraries and programs tailored to your interests. They often include visits to lesser known, but no less interesting places in Japan.
Japan is a country that leaves no one indifferent. Even in a week you can see a lot and have an unforgettable experience. Carefully plan your route, book air tickets and hotels and your trip to Japan will become one of the brightest memories in your life. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover new interesting places in Japan!
