What to see in Japan in a week: the best places and tours

Japan, the land of the rising sun, ancient culture and advanced technology, attracts travelers from all over the world. If you only have a week to explore this amazing country, it is important to carefully plan your route to see the most interesting things. This article will help you navigate and create an unforgettable trip. Find out about the best routes, tours, attractions and interesting places to visit in seven days.

Japan's Top Attractions

Before planning your 7-day Japan itinerary, it is important to decide on the main points of attraction. Of course, the must-see list includes:

Tokyo is the capital of Japan, combining ultra-modern skyscrapers and traditional temples. Here you can visit the Imperial Palace, the Shibuya area with its famous crossing, and taste authentic Japanese cuisine. Don't forget to look for flights to Tokyo in advance to make your trip more affordable.
Kyoto, the former capital of Japan, is famous for its temples, gardens and geishas. Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Shrine with thousands of red torii gates and the Arashiyama bamboo grove are the city's calling cards.

Osaka is the culinary capital of Japan, known for its street food and lively atmosphere. Here you can visit a samurai castle, the Kaiyukan aquarium and the Dotonbori district with its colorful signs.
Hiroshima is a city with a tragic history, but today it is a symbol of peace and hope. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum are a must-see.
Mount Fuji is a symbol of Japan, a sacred mountain that can be seen from afar or even climbed depending on the season. It is open to tourists from July 1 to August 31, with the peak season in August.

What to see in Japan in 7 days?

There are many options for a seven-day Japan itinerary, depending on your interests. Here are some popular options:

Classic route: Tokyo (3 days) – Kyoto (3 days) – Osaka (1 day). This route will allow you to get to know the most iconic places in Japan.
Cultural route: Kyoto (4 days) – Nara (1 day) – Osaka (2 days). This route is suitable for those interested in the history and culture of Japan.
Nature Route: Hakone (2 days) - Mt. Fuji (1 day) - Kanazawa (2 days) - Takayama (2 days) This route is ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Many companies offer guided tours of Japan that include visits to major attractions, accommodation, and transportation. This is a great option for those who don't want to organize their trip on their own.

How to organize a trip to Japan on your own?

But if you still don’t want to ask for help, then this part is for you. Organizing an independent trip to Japan is a completely doable task. Here are some tips:

Book your hotel early – well in advance, especially if you're planning a trip during peak season (spring for cherry blossoms, fall for red maple). Use a flight search service and book a hotel to get the best prices and selection. Check out the best hotels in Japan with great locations and good reviews.
Buy a Japan Rail Pass. If you plan to travel by train a lot, this can be a great deal.
Explore the transportation system. Japan's public transportation system is one of the most efficient in the world.
Download useful apps: for example, apps for translation, navigation and transport booking.
Plan your program in advance to make the most of your time.

Where to go in Japan if you have a layover?

If you have a few hours between flights in Japan, you can visit some interesting places near the airport. For example, from Narita Airport you can easily get to Narita city, where the famous Narita-san temple is located. From Haneda Airport you can quickly get to Tokyo and visit, for example, the Odaiba area or some of the attractions mentioned above. The main thing is to keep an eye on the time.

What else do you need to know about Japan?

The official language is, of course, Japanese. English is often spoken in tourist areas, but knowing basic Japanese phrases is a big plus.
Currency: Japanese yen (JPY). At the time of writing, the exchange rate is 100 yen = 2.12 BYN.
Visa: Most countries do not require a visa to Japan for tourist trips up to 90 days. Belarusians will have to apply for a permit - this can be done at the Japanese embassy in Minsk. Visas are usually issued for 15 or 30 days, but it all depends on your plans. More information on visa issuance here .
Culture: Japanese people are very polite and respectful. Respect local customs and traditions.
Food: Japanese cuisine is not only sushi and rolls. Be sure to try ramen, tempura, udon and other local dishes.

If you want something a little more out of the ordinary, consider a Japan tour package that offers unique itineraries and programs tailored to your interests. They often include visits to lesser-known, but no less interesting, places in Japan.

Japan is a country that leaves no one indifferent. Even in a week you can see a lot and get unforgettable impressions. Carefully plan your route, book flights and hotels - and your trip to Japan will become one of the most vivid memories in your life. Do not be afraid to experiment and discover new interesting places in Japan!