5-Day Japan Adventure: Osaka, Nara, Kyoto Itinerary

Take an early train from Osaka to Nara (approximately 1 hour). Start your day at Nara National Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Buddhist art and artifacts. The museum is located near Nara Park, making it convenient for further exploration. Enjoy breakfast at Cafe Etranger Narad, offering a variety of breakfast options in a cozy setting.

Spend your afternoon exploring Nara Park, home to hundreds of freely roaming deer that are considered sacred. You can feed them special deer crackers available for purchase in the park. Don't miss visiting Todai-ji Temple within the park grounds; it's one of Japan's most famous temples housing a giant Buddha statue. For lunch, try Mahoroba Daibutsu Pudding Honpo, known for its delicious puddings and light meals.

Before heading back to Osaka, take part in the Osaka: Nara, Todaiji, Matcha Experience and Hot Spring Tour. This tour includes a visit to Todaiji Temple followed by a traditional matcha tea ceremony experience. It's a great way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture before returning to Osaka in the evening (approximately 1 hour by train). For dinner back in Osaka, dine at Chibo Okonomiyaki for some authentic Japanese pancakes.

Travel from Osaka to Kyoto (approximately 30 minutes by train). Begin your Kyoto adventure with a visit to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks known for its stunning golden exterior reflected in the surrounding pond. Have breakfast at Kyocafe Chacha, where you can enjoy matcha-flavored treats.

In the afternoon, join the Kyoto: Afternoon Bamboo Forest and Monkey Park Bike Tour. This tour takes you through Arashiyama's famous bamboo groves and up to Iwatayama Monkey Park where you can interact with wild monkeys while enjoying panoramic views over Kyoto. For lunch, stop by Arashiyama Yoshimura which offers delicious soba noodles with beautiful river views.

Conclude your day with an exploration of Gion District during twilight hours when it truly comes alive. Stroll through historic streets lined with traditional wooden machiya houses and keep an eye out for geishas on their way between appointments at teahouses nearby Pontocho Alley (Pontocho Alley). Enjoy dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant, offering exquisite kaiseki cuisine.

Start your day early with a train ride from Kyoto to Hakone (approximately 2.5 hours). Upon arrival, visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, which features a stunning collection of sculptures set against the backdrop of Hakone's natural beauty. Enjoy breakfast at The Hakone Bakery, known for its fresh pastries and coffee.

In the afternoon, embark on the Hakone Day tour to view Mt Fuji after feeling wooden culture. This tour includes visits to key spots like Lake Ashi and provides some of the best views of Mount Fuji while avoiding heights. For lunch, dine at Togendai View Restaurant, offering delicious meals with panoramic views of Lake Ashi.

End your day with a relaxing soak in an onsen (hot spring) at one of Hakone's renowned ryokans. Experience traditional Japanese hospitality and unwind in the soothing waters. For dinner, enjoy a kaiseki meal at Gora Kadan, one of Hakone's most esteemed ryokan restaurants.

Travel from Hakone to Tokyo (approximately 1.5 hours by train). Begin your Tokyo adventure with a visit to the Rilakkuma Cafe for a whimsical breakfast experience surrounded by adorable Rilakkuma-themed decor and treats.

In the afternoon, explore Ginza, Tokyo's upscale shopping district. Visit the famous department stores and boutiques, and don't miss out on Ginza Six, a luxury shopping complex with an impressive rooftop garden. For lunch, stop by Sushi Saito, renowned for its exquisite sushi offerings.

Conclude your day with a visit to Odaiba, an entertainment hub on Tokyo Bay. Enjoy attractions like teamLab Borderless digital art museum or take a stroll along Odaiba Seaside Park for beautiful night views of Rainbow Bridge (Odaiba Seaside Park). For dinner, dine at Aqua City Odaiba, offering various dining options with stunning waterfront views.