Shintō

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Shintō's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Mount Fuji
morning
:

Start your adventure with a guided hike up Mount Fuji, taking in breathtaking views. Be sure to catch the sunrise from the peak if you can.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at a nearby mountain lodge. Explore the surrounding Fuji Five Lakes for stunning scenery.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation and unwind with a soak in an onsen. Savor a local dinner featuring fresh mountain ingredients.

day 2
Discover Cherry Blossoms in Shinjuku
morning
:

Stroll through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden to see stunning cherry blossoms in full bloom. Take plenty of photos as the flowers frame the landscape.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic in the park with delicious bento boxes from a nearby vendor. After lunch, visit the nearby Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for panoramic views.

evening
:

Head to Golden Gai, a famous nightlife area filled with themed bars. Experience local izakaya dining while chatting with locals and fellow travelers.

day 3
Visit Ancient Temples in Kyoto
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, and admire its reflected beauty in the pond. Explore the serene gardens surrounding the temple.

afternoon
:

Head over to Gion and grab lunch at a traditional tea house. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic streets while watching for Geisha.

evening
:

Visit Kiyomizu-dera for beautiful sunset views over the city. Dinner in the area often features Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine, an artful multi-course experience.

day 4
Relax in Okinawa
morning
:

Start the day with a relaxing beach stroll on one of Okinawa’s stunning beaches, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet. Consider water activities like snorkeling to see colorful marine life.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a seaside restaurant featuring fresh seafood. Explore the Okinawa World cultural theme park to learn about local traditional crafts and performances.

evening
:

Dine at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying the sunset with delicious local dishes. Experience traditional Okinawan music at a local tavern.

day 5
Experience Historic Nara
morning
:

Visit Todai-ji, home to the Great Buddha, and marvel at this significant historical site. Stroll through Nara Park and interact with friendly deer.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local soba shop and taste the traditional flavors of Nara. Continue to Kasuga-taisha Shrine and take in the thousands of lanterns.

evening
:

Return to the park for a different perspective of the deer at dusk. End the day with a quiet dinner at a local izakaya.

day 6
Ride the Shinkansen
morning
:

Catch the Shinkansen (bullet train) to your next destination, experiencing Japan's famous efficient transport. Take in the scenic views along the journey.

afternoon
:

Arrive at your destination and have lunch at a local restaurant. Spend time exploring the city’s main attractions or shopping district.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant specializing in regional cuisine to get a taste of local flavors. Relax for the evening in your accommodation or in a local café.

day 7
Cultural Day in Takayama
morning
:

Visit the Takayama Morning Market to sample local produce and crafts. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as vendors showcase their wares.

afternoon
:

Explore the historical Sanmachi Suji district, famous for its well-preserved Edo-period buildings. Stop for lunch at a local ramen shop to refuel.

evening
:

Attend a traditional sake-tasting experience and learn about the brewing process. Enjoy dinner at a local inn, possibly featuring Hida beef.

day 8
Urban Adventure in Osaka
morning
:

Start your day by visiting Osaka Castle and exploring its grounds. Take in the history and beautiful architecture of one of Japan’s most famous castles.

afternoon
:

Head to Dotonbori for lunch, famous for its street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Immerse yourself in shopping and the bright neon lights of this vibrant area.

evening
:

Enjoy the bustling nightlife by trying local dishes at street-side stalls. Consider visiting an arcade or karaoke bar for a fun-filled evening.

day 9
Scenic Sapporo
morning
:

Explore the Sapporo Clock Tower and learn about its remarkable history. Stroll through Odori Park and enjoy the seasonal flower displays.

afternoon
:

Head to the Sapporo Beer Museum for a tasting and lunch at the attached restaurant. Visit the historic village of Hokkaido for a glimpse into the past.

evening
:

Dine at a famous ramen shop in Sapporo, known for its rich miso ramen. Cap the night off with local nightlife, sampling craft beers at a local brewery.

Discover Shintō

Read more in our Shintō 2024 Travel Guide.

Shintō Travel Guide