7 Days in Japan: Culture and Cuisine Itinerary

Begin your day with a serene visit to Hakone Open-Air Museum. This museum features impressive sculptures set against beautiful natural backdrops. Have breakfast at the museum's café, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Afterward, head to Narukawa Art Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Japanese paintings. For lunch, enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine at Gora Brewery & Grill, located nearby.

Spend your evening unwinding at one of Hakone's famous hot springs (onsen). Visit Yudanaka Onsen for a relaxing soak in natural hot spring waters. Enjoy dinner at your ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) for an authentic experience.

Start your Kyoto adventure with a visit to Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum. Learn about sake brewing history and sample some fine sake. For breakfast, try traditional Kyoto-style breakfast at Izusen, located within Daikaku-ji Temple.

In the afternoon, explore the beautiful grounds of Fushimi Inari Shrine with its iconic torii gates. Have lunch at Kyoto Gogyo, known for its burnt miso ramen – a unique Kyoto specialty.

Conclude your day by visiting Gion District, famous for its geisha culture. Stroll through Hanamikoji Street and enjoy dinner at Gion Karyo, offering exquisite kaiseki (multi-course) dining.

Kick off your Osaka exploration with a trip to Osaka Museum of Housing and Living. Experience what life was like during Osaka’s past eras through interactive exhibits. Grab breakfast at nearby café Granknot Coffee known for its artisanal brews.

Next up is a visit to America-Mura (American Village), Osaka’s youth culture hub filled with trendy shops and street art. Stop by Café Absinthe for lunch; it offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a quirky setting.

End your day by exploring Dotonbori area – Osaka’s nightlife epicenter. Visit Hozenji Yokocho Alley before having dinner at popular eatery Kani Doraku, famous for its crab dishes.

Begin your day with a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum. This poignant site offers a deep insight into the events of World War II and the atomic bombing. For breakfast, head to Kissa Saeki, a charming café known for its delicious pastries and coffee.

In the afternoon, explore Shoko Shuseikan, an important cultural site that provides a glimpse into Japan's industrial history. For lunch, enjoy traditional Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Hassho, one of the city's most famous okonomiyaki restaurants.

Spend your evening strolling through Shukkeien Garden, a beautiful Japanese garden perfect for relaxation. Have dinner at Mitchan Sohonten, another top spot for Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.

Take a ferry to Miyajima Island and start your day with a visit to Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its floating torii gate. Enjoy breakfast at Momijido, known for its momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes).

In the afternoon, hike up Mount Misen for breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea. For lunch, try fresh oysters at Kakiya, a popular seafood restaurant on the island.

Return to Hiroshima in the evening and relax with dinner at Okonomi-mura, a food theme park dedicated to okonomiyaki where you can sample different styles from various vendors.

Fly to Hokkaido and start your day with a visit to Asahiyama Memorial Park (Asahiyama Kinen Koen). This park offers stunning views of Sapporo city and is perfect for a morning stroll. Have breakfast at Morning Café Sapporo which offers delightful morning sets.

In the afternoon, explore Susukino District, known for its vibrant atmosphere and entertainment options. Stop by Ramen Shingen for lunch; it’s famous for its rich miso ramen.

Conclude your trip with an evening visit to Odori Park where you can enjoy seasonal events or simply relax in this urban oasis. Have dinner at Sapporo Beer Garden, where you can savor Hokkaido’s famous Genghis Khan (grilled mutton) along with freshly brewed beer.