5 days in Japan

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is a breathtaking natural wonder and a must-visit destination if you are seeking tranquility amidst towering bamboo groves. This enchanting bamboo forest is a testament to the beauty of nature and a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The centerpiece of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is the mesmerizing bamboo grove, where towering bamboo stalks form a surreal and serene pathway. As you walk through this enchanting corridor, you'll be surrounded by the gentle rustling of bamboo leaves, creating a soothing and otherworldly atmosphere.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is also home to various attractions, including the iconic Nonomiya Shrine and the enchanting bamboo-lined paths of Sagano Bamboo Forest.

Whether you're seeking a tranquil stroll, a cultural adventure, or a serene natural retreat, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest offers a captivating and unforgettable experience that continues to captivate travelers from around the world.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

Fushimi Inari Shrine is an iconic and spiritually significant Shinto shrine that holds a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors alike. Known for its striking thousands of vermilion torii gates that create a mesmerizing tunnel-like path through the forested Mount Inari, this shrine is a captivating and sacred destination.

The main attraction is the Senbon Torii, a seemingly endless path of vivid red gates that leads to the summit of Mount Inari. Each torii gate is donated by individuals and businesses as an offering and bears inscriptions of their names and wishes.

As you ascend the mountain, you'll encounter serene forested trails, sub-shrines, stone fox statues (guardians of Inari shrines), and captivating viewpoints that provide panoramic vistas of Kyoto.

Fushimi Inari Shrine is not only a place of spiritual reverence but also a nature lover's paradise and a photographer's dream, offering an enchanting blend of culture and natural beauty that makes it one of Kyoto's most beloved and enduring treasures.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

Gion Geisha District, nestled in the heart of Kyoto, is a timeless enclave where tradition and elegance come to life. Its iconic cobbled streets, lined with beautifully preserved machiya houses, transport visitors to a bygone era.

Gion is renowned for preserving the geisha culture. While strolling through its narrow alleys, you may spot geisha and maiko in their exquisite kimono attire, adding an air of enchantment to the district.

The geisha culture thrives in Gion, with geisha and maiko honing their skills in traditional arts like dance, music, and conversation. Some teahouses offer cultural performances and dining experiences, allowing you to partake in this rich heritage.

Gion is not just about tradition; it also offers charming boutiques, traditional shops, and exceptional dining opportunities. Yasaka Shrine, located at the district's eastern edge, adds to the district's allure with its vibrant festivals and lantern-lit paths.

Exploring Gion is a journey into Japan's cultural soul, where the past and present harmoniously coexist.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

The Kimono Tea Ceremony is a traditional Japanese cultural experience where participants wear a kimono and take part in a formal tea ceremony.

During the ceremony, you can watch the preparation of matcha tea using traditional tools. The tea is paired with seasonal sweets, such as higashi (dry sugar sweets) and omogashi (moist sweets), which are served before enjoying the tea.

Check the links section for our curator's favorite vendors for a proper tea ceremony in Kyoto.

The activity is designed to immerse you in Kyoto's rich heritage, with guidance provided by expert instructors, often accompanied by explanations about tea ceremony customs and the significance of the kimono.

After the tea session, you have the chance to take photos in the beautiful Japanese gardens while still dressed in your kimonos​.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic and visited landmarks, renowned for its stunning architecture and the brilliant gold leaf adorning its upper two floors.

The temple is set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens, including the reflective Kyoko-chi (Mirror Pond), which offers a breathtaking mirror-like reflection of the Golden Pavilion, creating a surreal and picturesque scene.

You can take leisurely strolls through the meticulously maintained gardens, crossing ornate bridges and enjoying the serenity of the natural surroundings.

Originally constructed in the 14th century as a retirement villa for a shogun, Kinkaku-ji was later converted into a Zen temple. Each of its three floors represents a different style of architecture, reflecting different periods of Japanese history. The top two floors are covered in shimmering gold leaf, which glows brilliantly in the sunlight and stands in stark contrast to the dark, tranquil waters of the pond.

Kinkaku-ji is not only a testament to Japanese architectural and aesthetic mastery but also a place for contemplation and appreciation of the natural world. It's a must-visit destination if you are seeking to immerse yourself in the cultural and natural beauty of Kyoto.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

Kiyomizu-dera, a majestic Buddhist temple situated in the eastern hills of Kyoto, is an architectural marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Translating to "Pure Water Temple," Kiyomizu-dera is renowned for its awe-inspiring wooden terrace, which extends from the main hall and offers panoramic views of Kyoto's lush landscape.

The temple's main hall, constructed without the use of nails, stands as a testament to traditional Japanese craftsmanship. It is home to the Kannon Bodhisattva, a revered deity known for compassion and mercy. You can explore the inner sanctum of the temple, offering a spiritual and peaceful experience.

Kiyomizu-dera's picturesque setting is particularly enchanting during the cherry blossom season, with cherry trees surrounding the temple and the terrace. These blossoms create a breathtaking vista, making it a popular spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) picnics.

Kiyomizu-dera stands as an embodiment of Japanese cultural and architectural heritage, offering a serene space for reflection, appreciation of nature, and an exploration of Buddhism's profound influence on Japanese spirituality.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

Nishiki Market, often referred to as "Kyoto's Kitchen," is a vibrant and historic marketplace nestled in the heart of the city. Stretching over five city blocks, this bustling covered market is a sensory delight for food enthusiasts and visitors eager to explore Kyoto's culinary treasures.

The market is home to over a hundred shops and stalls, each offering an array of Japanese delicacies, fresh produce, street food, and traditional Kyoto specialties. As you wander through Nishiki Market, you'll encounter a diverse range of culinary delights, from fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, and pickled goods to skewered snacks, sweets, and artisanal products.

You can sample local street food, such as takoyaki (octopus balls), yakitori (grilled skewers), and yuba (tofu skin) dishes. Additionally, the market is known for its various shops selling Kyoto's famed matcha (green tea) products, including matcha-flavored sweets and tea leaves.

As you navigate the bustling aisles and savor the diverse flavors of Nishiki Market, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for Kyoto's culinary traditions and the rich tapestry of ingredients that contribute to Japanese cuisine. It's a must-visit destination for anyone looking to embark on a culinary journey through Kyoto's delectable offerings.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

The Philosopher’s Path is a scenic walking trail that stretches for almost 2 miles along a canal in the northern part of Higashiyama district.

Named after the influential Japanese philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who is said to have used the path for daily meditation walks, the Philosopher’s Path is renowned for its tranquility and natural beauty.

The path is lined with hundreds of cherry trees, which bloom spectacularly in the spring, creating a tunnel of pink blossoms that attracts visitors from around the world. In autumn, the foliage transforms into a vibrant display of red and gold, offering another picturesque backdrop for a stroll.

The path begins near Ginkaku-ji (the Silver Pavilion), a Zen temple famous for its minimalist architecture and beautiful gardens, and continues south towards Nanzen-ji, another historic temple with expansive grounds and a striking aqueduct.

Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of quaint shops, traditional tea houses, cafes, and small temples and shrines nestled in the serene, residential surroundings. This makes the Philosopher’s Path not only a place of natural beauty but also a cultural journey through Kyoto’s spiritual and artistic heritage.

Walking the Philosopher’s Path is a peaceful and reflective experience, as it meanders along the gentle canal, crossing over small stone bridges and passing under lush canopies of cherry blossoms and maple trees.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

A stroll through Osaka's vibrant Dotonbori district is a sensory adventure that immerses you in the city's lively and colorful atmosphere. Located in the heart of Osaka, this bustling entertainment and dining hub offers an array of experiences for locals and visitors alike.

Start your walk by crossing the iconic Ebisu Bridge, where you'll be greeted by the luminous and oversized billboards that adorn the canal-side buildings. These neon signs create a dazzling and electrifying display at night, giving Dotonbori its distinctive charm.

As you meander along the canal, explore the countless restaurants, street food vendors, and eateries that line the streets. Sample Osaka's famous street foods like takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) at the various stalls and restaurants, savoring the city's culinary delights.

Dotonbori is also known for its entertainment options, including theaters, pachinko parlors, and vibrant nightlife. The district's lively energy and eclectic mix of shops and boutiques make it a shopping haven, with everything from quirky fashion to traditional souvenirs on offer.

The Dotonbori district is not just a place to see and taste but also to soak in the urban spirit of Osaka. Its vivacious and dynamic ambiance makes it an ideal spot for people-watching, and it provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore Osaka's rich culinary and entertainment culture.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

Himeji Castle, often referred to as the "White Heron Castle" due to its striking white appearance and elegant design, is a national treasure of Japan and one of the country's most iconic and well-preserved feudal castles. It's celebrated for historical significance, architectural beauty, and UNESCO World Heritage status.

The castle complex, characterized by its stunning white plaster walls and intricate wooden framework, is a remarkable example of Japanese castle architecture from the early 17th century. Himeji Castle features a complex layout with multiple defensive features, including moats, gates, and stone walls, making it a formidable fortress from Japan's feudal era.

One of the highlights of a visit to Himeji Castle is the main keep, a towering structure that offers commanding views of the surrounding city and landscape. Inside the keep, you can explore the various floors and exhibits, gaining insights into the history and significance of the castle.

Surrounded by beautiful cherry blossom trees, Himeji Castle is particularly enchanting during the spring cherry blossom season when the castle grounds are adorned with delicate pink blooms. The castle's grounds also include a lovely garden, Koko-en, where you can relax and appreciate traditional Japanese landscaping.

Himeji Castle stands as a testament to Japan's rich cultural heritage and architectural mastery. Its pristine appearance, historical significance, and well-preserved condition make it a must-visit destination if you are eager to step back in time and explore the grandeur of Japan's feudal past.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

Nara Park is a sprawling and enchanting natural reserve renowned for its serene beauty and the friendly Sika deer that freely roam its grounds. This expansive park also holds deep historical and cultural significance.

At the heart of Nara Park lies Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden). This colossal wooden structure houses one of the world's largest bronze Buddha statues, the Daibutsu, which is a majestic and awe-inspiring sight.

Nara Park is perhaps best known for its resident Sika deer, which have become a symbol of the city. These friendly and sacred deer are considered messengers of the gods and are protected as national treasures. You can interact with the deer, feeding them special crackers called "shika senbei" that are available for purchase throughout the park.

The park's picturesque landscapes, including cherry tree-lined paths and tranquil ponds, provide a serene backdrop for leisurely strolls and picnics. It's a place where nature and culture harmoniously converge, offering a delightful and memorable experience.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

Abeno Harukas is an iconic skyscraper complex towering over Osaka that combines soaring modernity with diverse attractions. At its pinnacle, the Harukas 300 Observatory provides awe-inspiring panoramic views of Osaka and beyond, while the Abeno Harukas Museum offers enriching cultural exhibitions.

Within its sprawling structure, a vibrant shopping mall boasts an array of shops and dining options. This multifaceted landmark encapsulates Osaka's contemporary vitality, making it a must-visit for those seeking breathtaking vistas, cultural immersion, shopping, and culinary delights, all within a single iconic destination.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge Park, situated near the awe-inspiring Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, offers a unique perspective on this engineering marvel. The park provides a serene and picturesque setting to admire the world's longest central span suspension bridge, connecting the island of Awaji to the mainland of Honshu.

The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge itself is a testament to human ingenuity and innovation, boasting a central span that stretches an astonishing 1,991 meters (6,532 feet) across the Akashi Strait. You can walk or cycle along designated paths that provide unobstructed views of the bridge, allowing to appreciate its sheer scale and architectural elegance.

The park's peaceful surroundings and vantage points make it an ideal spot for photography, picnics, or simply enjoying the tranquil sea breeze. As you gaze out over the Akashi Strait, you might even witness the breathtaking sight of the setting sun beneath the bridge, a magical moment that captivates both locals and tourists alike.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

Naramachi Nigiwai-no-Ie, also known as the Naramachi Folklore Museum, is a cultural gem located in the historic Naramachi district of Nara. This traditional machiya (townhouse) has been lovingly preserved and converted into a museum, offering a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and history of the Naramachi neighborhood.

Inside the Naramachi Nigiwai-no-Ie, you'll find carefully curated exhibits that showcase the heritage, traditions, and artifacts of Naramachi and its residents. The museum features displays of everyday items, tools, clothing, and furnishings that provide insights into the lifestyle of Naramachi's inhabitants from different historical periods.

The museum's architecture and interior design have been meticulously preserved, offering a charming backdrop for the exhibits and creating an immersive atmosphere that transports you to bygone eras.

Naramachi Nigiwai-no-Ie serves as a window into Nara's rich cultural heritage, making it a delightful and educational stop for those interested in history, local traditions, and the charm of well-preserved traditional Japanese architecture.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

The TeamLab Botanical Garden is a captivating fusion of art, technology, and nature. This immersive garden is a product of the renowned art collective TeamLab, known for its innovative digital art installations that blur the boundaries between the virtual and the real.

The garden is a place where you can embark on a sensory journey through a mesmerizing world of interactive art and botanical beauty. It features a variety of digital installations that respond to the presence and movements of visitors. You can walk through lush landscapes adorned with seasonal flowers and plants while being surrounded by a symphony of ever-changing digital animations and projections.

The TeamLab Botanical Garden is a celebration of the boundless possibilities of art and technology in a natural setting. It offers a transformative and magical experience that appeals to art enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking to be transported into a realm of digital enchantment and botanical wonder.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

To travel between Tokyo and Kawaguchiko (central hub of Mt Fuji region), there are three convenient options besides a rental car, depending on whether you'd like a direct route, scenic views, or flexibility:

Our favorite way to get there is on a JR Limited Express Fuji Excursion train as it is a direct route from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo to Kawaguchiko Station, taking about 2 hours with a cost of around 4,000 yen each way. The Fuji Excursion train has large windows for mountain views along the way, making it a scenic and comfortable choice.

Another option is starting with Tokaido Shinkansen and then Fujikyu Railway. Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Mishima Station (about 45 minutes on the Kodama or Hikari trains). From Mishima, transfer to a local bus heading toward Kawaguchiko Station near Mount Fuji. The whole journey takes about 2-3 hours and provides great flexibility if you have a Japan Rail Pass.

And finally, you can take a budget-friendly and direct Highway Bus from Tokyo’s Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Kawaguchiko Station. The bus ride takes about 2-2.5 hours and costs around 2,000 yen each way. Some buses also go to the Fuji 5th Station, the popular starting point for climbing, but this service is typically seasonal.

If you don't want to spend time on figuring out the logistics of getting to and around Mt Fuji — we recommend a full-day guided tour from Tokyo that takes all the guesswork out of the equation. Check our activites in Tokyo region for a list of vetted Mt Fuji tours.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

Japan’s iconic Shinkansen is the best way to travel between Tokyo to Kyoto. With high-speed service that can get you there in just over two hours, it combines speed, convenience, and comfort in a way that air or car travel simply can’t match.

The fastest and most popular line is the Tokaido Shinkansen, which offers three types of trains: the Nozomi, Hikari, and Kodama. The Nozomi is the quickest, covering the distance in about 2h 15m with limited stops. The Hikari is slightly slower at around 2h 40m, while the Kodama takes about 4 hours due to its numerous stops.

Once onboard, you’ll enjoy a comfortable ride with spacious seating, large windows, and a clean environment. Food and drinks can be purchased from onboard vendors, or you can bring along your own ekiben, a boxed meal available at train stations.

If you are traveling between Tokyo, Kyoto, and other cities via bullet train, and also use subway and ferrys, it's totally worth it to buy a 7-day JR Pass. It brings hundreds of dollars in savings for all of Fyno's multi-city Japan itineraries.

We recommend booking your ticket in advance, especially if you're traveling during busy seasons like spring’s cherry blossom season or the autumn leaf-viewing period. Tickets are available from automated machines at the station, where English language options are provided, or at staffed counters for extra assistance.

As you depart from Tokyo, keep an eye out for Mount Fuji on the right side of the train if weather permits.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

The most efficient way to get from Mount Fuji region to Kyoto is by taking Direct Highway Bus from Kawaguchiko Station to Mishima (1.5h), then Shinkansen to Kyoto (2h). The full trip will cost around 10,000 yen.

This is usually a relatively stress-free journey since the buses depart every 10 to 15 minutes, there are 1-2 bullet trains from Mishima to Kyoto every hour, and all the transportation is on time pretty much always.

Alternatively, you can take Fujikyu Railway to Tokyo and then Shinkansen to Kyoto, but it's more expensive and time consuming.

The bus to Mishima is reservation-only, and bullet trains are usually sold out during peak season, so we recommend booking your seats in advance.

If you primarily use trains, buses, and subway on your trip to Japan, we recommend buying Japan Rail Pass. It brings hundreds of dollars in savings for all of Fyno's multi-city Japan itineraries.

Word from curator

Sandra, Japan expert

To get from Kyoto to Nara Park, you have several convenient options. Each one has it's own pros and cons.

Kintetsu Railway option is our favorite because you arrive much closer to Nara Park. Take the Kintetsu Kyoto Line from Kyoto Station to Kintetsu Nara Station. This takes around 40 minutes, with an express ticket costing about 1,200 yen. And then just a 5-minute walk from the station to the park entrance. If you prefer guaranteed seating during busy travel times — follow the link to Kintetsu website.

You can also take a JR Line which is more popular because it's covered with Japan Rail Pass if you have it. From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to JR Nara Station. The journey takes about 50 minutes and costs around 720 yen. Once at JR Nara Station, it’s about a 20-minute walk or a short bus ride to Nara Park.

Another option is a scenic bus. Take a highway bus from Kyoto Station to Nara. The bus takes about 1.5 hours, and tickets are typically around 1,000 yen. The bus will drop you near central Nara, from which you can reach Nara Park by walking or taking a local bus.