Where to Go in Japan in 5 Days: A Guide to the Best Destinations

Do you wish to visit Japan, but only have five days? It might seem like a short time to see all the amazing things in Japan. But don’t worry! With a good plan and choosing what’s most important to you, you can still enjoy the best parts of this wonderful country. In this article, we will guide you through the best destinations to visit in Japan if you only have 5 days. Our topic is “Where to Go in Japan in 5 Days,” so let’s dive right in!

Day 1: Tokyo

Tokyo is a bustling metropolis that has something to offer for every type of traveler. Here are some of the must-see attractions for day 1 of your trip:

Visit the Senso-ji Temple

Tokyo has a very old and well-known temple. It’s in a place called Asakusa. You can get there easily by taking the subway. The temple has a big gate at the entrance. People call it the Thunder Gate or Kaminarimon. When you pass through this gate, you’ll see a street. This street is full of shops. These shops sell traditional things and souvenirs.

Explore the Meiji Shrine

There’s a special place in Tokyo called the Meiji Shrine. It’s made to remember Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. You can find it in a part of Tokyo called Shibuya. Even though Shibuya is usually busy, the shrine is a quiet and calm place. It’s like a little piece of nature in the city because it’s surrounded by a park with lots of trees.

Sometimes, you can see traditional Japanese weddings happening there. It’s a beautiful place to visit and learn about Japan’s history.

Visit the Tsukiji Fish Market

There’s a huge fish market that’s the biggest one in the whole world! If you love food, you should definitely visit. There are lots of stands selling all kinds of fresh seafood. One of the coolest things to see is the tuna auctions. They happen early in the morning. But remember, if you want to watch, you need to get there super early. That’s because they only let a certain number of people in. It’s a really exciting place to explore and learn about different types of seafood.

Go shopping in Shibuya

There’s a place in Tokyo that’s always buzzing with people. It’s known for its cool fashion stores and big department stores. This place is one of the busiest shopping areas in Tokyo. One thing you can’t miss is the Shibuya Crossing. It’s a famous spot where hundreds of people cross the street all at the same time. It’s a sight to see!

So, if you’re ever in Tokyo, make sure to check out this shopping area and the Shibuya Crossing. It’s a great way to experience the city’s energy.

Try the local food

Tokyo is known for having lots of yummy food. There are so many dishes you should try. Some of the best ones are sushi, ramen, yakitori (that’s grilled chicken on a stick), and okonomiyaki (these are like tasty pancakes).

These are just a few things you can do in Tokyo. They’re a great way to start your trip. And remember, you’ll be walking a lot, so make sure to wear shoes that are comfy!

Day 2: Kyoto

Kyoto is a city that’s full of history and culture. It’s really beautiful. There are lots of special places in Kyoto that are protected by UNESCO. You can spend a whole day just looking at the old temples, shrines, and gardens. These are places you should definitely visit on the second day of your trip. It’s a great way to learn about Japan’s past and enjoy some pretty sights.

Visit the Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion)

Kyoto has a place that’s really famous. Anyone who visits the city should go see it. It’s a temple that’s covered in shiny gold leaf. It’s next to a pretty pond and garden. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures when you visit! It’s a beautiful place to remember your trip.

Explore the Fushimi Inari Shrine

Sure, here’s a simpler version:

There’s another well-known place in Kyoto. It’s famous for having thousands of torii gates. These gates make a path that goes up a mountain behind a shrine. If you decide to hike to the top, it will take about two hours. But when you get there, you’ll see some really amazing views. It’s a great adventure!

Stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

This is a calm and pretty place in Kyoto. It’s known for its tall bamboo trees. You can walk through this bamboo forest and see how beautiful nature can be. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple

There’s a big temple sitting on a hill. From there, you can see all of Kyoto. It’s really pretty in spring and fall. That’s when the cherry blossoms bloom and the leaves change color. It’s like a painting!

Try some traditional Kyoto cuisine

Kyoto has its own unique culinary traditions, and there are many delicious dishes to try. Some must-try foods include kaiseki (a multi-course meal), yudofu (tofu hot pot), and matcha (green tea) desserts.

Day 3: Nara

Nara is known for its beautiful parks, ancient temples, and friendly deer that roam freely throughout the city. Here are some must-see attractions for day 3 of your trip:

Visit the Todai-ji Temple

This temple is home to the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha, and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple complex is also surrounded by a beautiful park and many smaller shrines.

Feed the deer in Nara Park

Nara Park is home to over 1,000 friendly deer that roam freely throughout the area. You can purchase deer crackers to feed them, but be careful, as they can be quite aggressive!

Explore the Kasuga Taisha Shrine

This shrine is known for its hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns, which are lit twice a year during the Lantern Festival. The shrine is also surrounded by a beautiful forested area.

Visit the Nara National Museum

This museum is dedicated to the art and culture of Nara, and it has an impressive collection of Buddhist art and artifacts.

Walk through Higashimuki Shopping Street

This street is located near the entrance to Nara Park and is a great place to shop for souvenirs and try some local food.

Try some local cuisine: Nara is known for its unique cuisine, and there are many delicious dishes to try. Some must-try foods include kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves), yamato-mochi (a type of rice cake), and sake.

Day 4: Hiroshima and Miyajima Island

Hiroshima is a city that has a tragic history but has since rebuilt and become a symbol of peace. Miyajima Island, located nearby, is known for its iconic floating torii gate and beautiful scenery. Here are some must-see attractions for day 3 of your trip:

Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

This park is dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb that was dropped on the city in 1945. It’s a somber but moving experience, and there are many monuments and exhibits to see, including the Atomic Bomb Dome.

Explore Miyajima Island

This island is famous for its iconic torii gate, which appears to float on the water during high tide. You can take a ferry from Hiroshima to the island and spend the day exploring its temples, shrines, and hiking trails.

Visit the Itsukushima Shrine

This is the most famous shrine on Miyajima Island and is known for its stunning architecture and its iconic torii gate. The shrine is also surrounded by beautiful gardens and a pond.

Hike Mount Misen

This mountain is the highest peak on Miyajima Island and offers breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding sea. There are several hiking trails to choose from, and it takes about two to three hours to reach the summit.

Try some local specialties

Hiroshima is known for its unique cuisine, and there are many delicious dishes to try. Some must-try foods include okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), oysters, and Momiji manju (a sweet pastry).

Day 5: Osaka

Osaka is known for its vibrant street food scene, bustling shopping districts, and historic landmarks. Here are some must-see attractions for day 5 of your trip:

Visit Osaka Castle

This iconic castle is one of the most famous landmarks in Osaka and is surrounded by a beautiful park. You can explore the castle and learn about its history, as well as enjoy the views from the top of the castle tower.

Walk through Dotonbori

This lively district is known for its neon lights, street food, and shopping. You can find everything from takoyaki (octopus balls) to giant crab legs in this area.

Explore the Shinsekai district

This retro district is known for its old-fashioned charm and delicious kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). You can take a walk through the area and see the famous Tsutenkaku Tower.

Visit the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

This aquarium is one of the largest in the world and is home to over 30,000 marine animals. You can see everything from giant manta rays to adorable penguins in this attraction.

Take a stroll through Shitennoji Temple

This is one of the oldest temples in Japan and is known for its beautiful pagoda and peaceful atmosphere.

Try some local cuisine

Osaka is known for its delicious street food, and there are many unique dishes to try. Some must-try foods include okonomiyaki (a savory pancake), takoyaki (octopus balls), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).

Author’s thoughts

Japan is a wonderful place with lots to see and do. Imagine you only have five days to visit. It might seem hard to decide where to go, but don’t worry! You can visit some of the most famous places and experience the rich culture and history of Japan.

Start with Tokyo, a busy city full of life. Then, visit Kyoto, a peaceful city with beautiful temples. Don’t forget Nara, a city that’s loved for its friendly deer. Lastly, check out Osaka, a city known for its tasty food and fun atmosphere.

Remember, this is just a starting point. There are many more amazing places to explore in Japan. Whether it’s your first trip or you’ve been before, Japan will always leave you with special memories. It’s a unique country that mixes old traditions with new ideas. It has beautiful nature and yummy food. No wonder people from all over the world love visiting Japan.