8-Day Japan Adventure: Tokyo to Osaka Itinerary

Begin your day with a serene visit to Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu), one of Tokyo's most important Shinto shrines. Nestled within a lush forest, it's a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Afterward, enjoy breakfast at Amanoya, where you can savor traditional Japanese breakfast dishes.

In the afternoon, dive into history at Tokyo National Museum. This museum houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts from Japan's rich history. For lunch, head over to Sushi Saito, renowned for its exquisite sushi that promises an unforgettable dining experience.

Spend your evening exploring Asakusa. Visit the historic Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa Temple), Tokyo's oldest temple, which is beautifully illuminated at night. Then join Tokyo Sushi Making Cooking Class in Asakusa where you'll learn how to make authentic sushi from expert chefs. Conclude your day with dinner at Narutomi, famous for its soba noodles.

Kick off your morning with a trip to Odaiba, starting at Odaiba Seaside Park (Oaidaba Kaihin Koen). Enjoy stunning views of Tokyo Bay and explore futuristic attractions like teamLab Borderless digital art museum nearby. Have breakfast at Eggs 'n Things Odaiba, known for their Hawaiian-style pancakes.

In the afternoon, head over to Akihabara - Tokyo’s electric town - where you can explore countless shops selling electronics, anime merchandise, and more at places like Yodobashi Camera or Mandarake Complex. Don't miss out on visiting one-of-a-kind themed cafes such as maid cafes or retro gaming centers here! For lunch stop by Kanda Matsuya which serves traditional soba noodles loved by locals.

Conclude your third day with an enchanting experience at Roppongi Hills Mori Tower’s observation deck followed by visiting Mori Art Museum located within same complex featuring contemporary art exhibitions from around world! Join an evening activity:  Tokyo Zen Meditation at a Private Temple with a Monk offering tranquil meditation session led by experienced monk providing perfect end note before heading back hotel after dinner nearby at highly-rated restaurant: Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu famous Kill Bill inspired decor serving delectable Japanese cuisine.

Start your Kyoto adventure with a visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha). Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, this shrine offers a serene and picturesque hike up Mount Inari. After exploring the shrine, enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at Kyoto Gion Yata, known for its delightful morning set meals.

In the afternoon, head to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), one of Kyoto's most famous landmarks. The shimmering golden temple reflected in the surrounding pond is a sight to behold. For lunch, stop by Omen Kodai-ji, a highly-rated restaurant specializing in udon noodles and tempura.

As evening falls, explore the historic district of Gion. Begin with a visit to Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine), which is beautifully illuminated at night. Then join Kyoto Geisha Arts Gion Cultural Walk with Geisha Show for an immersive experience into the world of geishas. End your day with dinner at Gion Karyo, known for its exquisite kaiseki cuisine.

Kyoto Morning Japanese Bento Cooking Class offers an engaging start to your day where you can learn how to prepare traditional Japanese bento boxes from scratch. Afterward, visit Nijo-jo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. For breakfast, enjoy some freshly baked goods at Le Petit Mec, a popular bakery in Kyoto.

Kyoto Insider Sake Brewery Tour with Sake and Food Pairing takes you on an informative journey through one of Kyoto's historic sake breweries where you can sample various types of sake paired with delicious local dishes. Following this tour, head over to Nishiki Market, often referred to as 'Kyoto's Kitchen,' where you can explore numerous stalls selling fresh produce and unique snacks. Have lunch at Nishiki Warai, which serves mouth-watering okonomiyaki.

Gion Night Owl Walking Tour allows you to discover hidden gems within Gion district under enchanting evening lights while learning about its rich history from knowledgeable guides! Conclude your night by dining at highly-rated restaurant: Izutsuya serving delectable kaiseki meals made using seasonal ingredients ensuring memorable culinary experience.

Hakone Open-Air Museum offers perfect blend between art & nature featuring impressive sculptures set against stunning backdrop mountains making it must-visit attraction during stay Hakone! Enjoy hearty breakfast nearby museum: The Fujiya Hotel Main Dining Room offering Western-style buffet options along traditional Japanese dishes catering diverse tastes preferences guests alike.

Take scenic ride aboard famous Hakone Ropeway providing breathtaking views active volcanic valley Owakudani along picturesque Lake Ashi below creating unforgettable experience visitors all ages! Stop mid-way station try black eggs boiled hot springs believed bring good luck longevity before continuing journey towards lake area where can enjoy leisurely boat cruise across serene waters surrounded lush greenery majestic mountains beyond! Have lunch onboard or opt dine lakeside restaurant such as Amazake Chaya serving delicious soba noodles other local specialties loved both locals tourists alike!

Conclude day relaxing soak one many renowned onsens found throughout region including recommended activity: Hakone Traverse Hakone Caldera Enjoy Onsen allowing unwind amidst tranquil natural surroundings while experiencing therapeutic benefits mineral-rich hot spring waters rejuvenating mind body soul after eventful day exploration adventure around beautiful town Hakone itself! Dine final meal evening nearby highly-rated establishment: Gora Kadan Restaurant offering exquisite multi-course kaiseki dinners showcasing finest seasonal ingredients prepared master chefs ensuring truly memorable dining experience end perfect note.

Begin your Osaka exploration with a visit to Osaka Castle (Osaka-jo), one of Japan's most famous landmarks. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan's feudal history. After exploring the castle, enjoy breakfast at Garlic x Garlic, known for its delicious garlic-infused dishes.

In the afternoon, head to Dotonbori, the vibrant heart of Osaka. This bustling area is famous for its neon lights, street food stalls, and lively atmosphere. Don't miss trying takoyaki (octopus balls) from one of the many vendors. For lunch, stop by Kushikatsu Daruma, a highly-rated restaurant specializing in kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).

As evening falls, explore the trendy district of Namba. Join Osaka Namba Pub Bar Crawl with a Born & Raised Local Guide for an exciting night out visiting hidden bars and pubs while learning about local drinking culture from knowledgeable guides! Conclude your day dining at highly-rated restaurant: Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M offering premium wagyu beef grilled right table ensuring unforgettable culinary experience end perfect note.

Start your final day in Japan with a visit to Shitenno-ji Temple, one of Japan's oldest temples founded over 1,400 years ago providing serene escape amidst bustling city surroundings allowing reflect upon journey thus far! Enjoy breakfast nearby temple: Granknot Coffee serving freshly brewed coffee alongside delectable pastries sandwiches catering diverse tastes preferences guests alike.

In afternoon explore unique cultural attraction: National Bunraku Theater where can witness traditional Japanese puppet theater performances showcasing intricate craftsmanship artistry involved bringing these lifelike puppets stage captivating audiences all ages! For lunch stop by highly-rated restaurant: Honke Ootako known serving delicious takoyaki other local specialties loved both locals tourists alike ensuring memorable dining experience before continuing adventures around city itself!

Conclude final evening Osaka exploring vibrant district Minami renowned its shopping entertainment options ranging high-end boutiques department stores quaint cafes lively bars everything between making perfect place unwind relax after eventful days spent discovering wonders Japan itself! Join recommended activity: Osaka Tenma Kyobashi Night Bites Foodie Walking Tour offering guided tour through hidden gems lesser-known eateries sampling wide variety dishes showcasing best local cuisine has offer ensuring truly unforgettable end journey itself before heading back hotel rest well-deserved sleep preparing departure following morning!