### Travel Plan for Japan

#### **Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo**

- **Morning**: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Transfer to your hotel.
- **Afternoon**: Explore the Asakusa district and visit Senso-ji Temple.
- **Evening**: Walk around the Tokyo Skytree area and have dinner at a local izakaya.

#### **Day 2: Tokyo Sightseeing**

- **Morning**: Visit the Tsukiji Outer Market for breakfast.
- **Mid-morning**: Head to the Meiji Shrine and stroll through Yoyogi Park.
- **Afternoon**: Shop in the trendy Harajuku district and visit Takeshita Street.
- **Evening**: Explore Shibuya, see the famous Shibuya Crossing, and have dinner there.

#### **Day 3: Day Trip to Nikko**

- **Morning**: Take a train to Nikko (about 2 hours).
- **Late Morning/Afternoon**: Visit the Toshogu Shrine, Lake Chuzenji, and Kegon Falls.
- **Evening**: Return to Tokyo and relax.

#### **Day 4: Travel to Kyoto**

- **Morning**: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours).
- **Afternoon**: Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine.
- **Evening**: Stroll around the Gion district and have dinner.

#### **Day 5: Kyoto Exploration**

- **Morning**: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion).
- **Mid-morning**: Explore Ryoan-ji Temple.
- **Afternoon**: Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
- **Evening**: Return to central Kyoto for dinner.

#### **Day 6: Day Trip to Nara**

- **Morning**: Take a train to Nara (about 1 hour).
- **Late Morning/Afternoon**: Visit Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
- **Evening**: Return to Kyoto and relax.

#### **Day 7: Travel to Osaka**

- **Morning**: Take a train to Osaka (about 15 minutes).
- **Late Morning/Afternoon**: Explore Osaka Castle and the surrounding park.
- **Evening**: Visit Dotonbori for street food and nightlife.

#### **Day 8: Osaka and Kobe**

- **Morning**: Visit the Umeda Sky Building.
- **Afternoon**: Take a side trip to Kobe (about 30 minutes) and visit the Kobe
Harborland.
- **Evening**: Enjoy Kobe beef for dinner and return to Osaka.
#### **Day 9: Hiroshima Day Trip**
- **Morning**: Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima (about 1.5 hours).
- **Late Morning/Afternoon**: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
- **Evening**: Return to Osaka.

#### **Day 10: Departure**

- **Morning**: Relax or do some last-minute shopping.
- **Afternoon**: Transfer to Kansai International Airport or another departure airport.

### Things to Be Cautious About When Traveling to Japan

1. **Language Barrier**: While many Japanese people understand basic English,

especially in major cities, learning a few basic Japanese phrases can be helpful.

2. **Cultural Etiquette**:
- **Tipping**: Tipping is not customary and can be considered rude.
- **Shoes**: Always remove shoes when entering someone’s home and certain
traditional accommodations.
- **Public Behavior**: Be mindful of keeping noise levels down, especially on public
transport.

3. **Transportation**:
- **Trains**: Japan's train system is extensive but can be complex. Consider getting a
Japan Rail Pass if traveling extensively by train.
- **Navigation**: Use apps like Google Maps or Hyperdia for navigating public
transport.

4. **Cash and Payments**:

- **Cash**: Japan is still very much a cash-based society. Carry sufficient cash as not
all places accept credit cards.
- **ATMs**: Not all ATMs accept foreign cards. 7-Eleven and Post Office ATMs are
reliable options.

5. **Health and Safety**:

- **Healthcare**: Japan has excellent healthcare facilities. It's advisable to have
travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
- **Natural Disasters**: Japan is prone to earthquakes and typhoons. Familiarize
yourself with safety procedures and local emergency alerts.

6. **Food and Drink**:

- **Dietary Restrictions**: Japanese cuisine can be difficult for vegetarians and vegans.
Research restaurants in advance.
- **Water**: Tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is also readily available.
7. **Respect for Tradition**:
- **Temples and Shrines**: Dress modestly and follow the rules, such as purifying
hands before entering and not taking photos in restricted areas.
- **Onsen (Hot Springs)**: Follow proper bathing etiquette, such as washing
thoroughly before entering the communal bath.

By being aware of these considerations and respecting local customs, your trip to Japan
will be a memorable and enjoyable experience.