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Tokyo, Japan
Explore Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Akihabara during your first four days. Don't miss Senso-ji in Asakusa and the teamLab digital art museums. Try ramen in Shinjuku and takoyaki in any street market.
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Mount Fuji / Fuji Five Lakes, Japan
Base yourself at Kawaguchiko for iconic Fuji views and easy access to the Chureito Pagoda. October offers stunning autumn colours framing the mountain. A single overnight stay lets you catch the mountain at sunrise before moving on.
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Uji, Japan
Uji is Japan's matcha capital — try authentic matcha soft serve and soba along the main street. Visit Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featured on the 10-yen coin. It's a perfect half-day stop en route between Fuji and Kyoto.
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Kyoto, Japan
Walk the Fushimi Inari torii gates at dawn and explore Gion's geisha district in the evening. Round1 Kyoto in the Aeon Mall is a must for arcade gaming, bowling, and karaoke — great for a fun evening. October is shoulder season so crowds are manageable at Arashiyama bamboo grove.
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Nara, Japan
Nara Park is home to over 1,000 free-roaming sika deer that will bow for shika senbei crackers sold by vendors. Don't miss Todai-ji Temple housing Japan's largest bronze Buddha. Nara is an easy day trip from Kyoto — arrive early to avoid tour groups.
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Awaji Island, Japan
Nijigen no Mori on Awaji Island features the famous Naruto-themed escape experience with giant character installations. The island is also known for Awaji beef burgers and fresh seafood at roadside stops. Cross via the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge — the world's longest suspension bridge — for a scenic arrival.
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Osaka, Japan
Universal Studios Japan is located in Osaka's Sakurajima area — highlights include the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World. After the park, head to Dotonbori for yakitori and okonomiyaki. Osaka is the perfect base for both USJ and transit onward to Shimanami Kaido.
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Shimanami Kaido, Japan
The Shimanami Kaido is a 70km cycling route connecting Onomichi (Hiroshima prefecture) to Imabari (Ehime) across six islands via spectacular sea bridges. Rent a bicycle at either end and enjoy citrus groves, coastal views, and traditional island villages. Even a partial ride from Onomichi to Innoshima is breathtaking and doable in a day.
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Hiroshima, Japan
Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park and Museum are deeply moving and essential stops for any visitor. Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki — layered with noodles unlike the Osaka version. Use Hiroshima as your southernmost anchor before beginning the journey back northeast to Fussa.
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Fussa, Japan
Fussa sits along the Tama River west of Tokyo, known for its retro American vibe thanks to the nearby Yokota Air Base. The main Beige Street strip has vintage shops, craft beer bars, and a laid-back atmosphere unlike central Tokyo. A relaxed and unique final night before departing from Tokyo on the 13th.