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Tokyo, Japan
Start with a gentle arrival evening, then explore Shibuya, Harajuku, Asakusa and Akihabara over the following days. Take day trips to the temples of Nikko and the iconic views of Mt. Fuji from Kawaguchiko. Don't miss ramen in Shinjuku and sushi at Tsukiji outer market.
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Matsumoto, Japan
Home to one of Japan's finest original castles, the striking black Matsumoto-jo. Stroll the charming Nakamachi and Nawate streets lined with kura storehouses and craft shops. On the second day, take a day trip to the breathtaking alpine valley of Kamikochi.
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Kanazawa, Japan
Known as 'Little Kyoto', Kanazawa boasts Kenroku-en, one of Japan's top three gardens. Wander the beautifully preserved Higashi Chaya geisha district for matcha sweets and gold-leaf crafts. Fresh seafood from Omicho Market is a must-try lunch stop.
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Takayama, Japan
Stop en route at the UNESCO-listed gassho-zukuri farmhouses of Shirakawa-go before arriving in Takayama. Explore the beautifully preserved Edo-period merchant town of Sanmachi Suji and taste prized Hida beef at a local restaurant. Morning rickshaws and sake breweries add to the atmosphere.
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Kyoto, Japan
Japan's cultural heart offers six full days to soak in temples, geisha districts and bamboo forests. Highlights include Fushimi Inari's thousand torii gates, Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji and the cobbled lanes of Higashiyama. Day-trip to Nara to hand-feed the famous free-roaming sacred deer.
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Hiroshima, Japan
A deeply moving city, Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Museum and the haunting Atomic Bomb Dome are unmissable. The Peace Memorial Park along the river is serene and reflective. End the day with Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a local speciality layered with noodles.
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Miyajima, Japan
This sacred island is famous for the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, especially stunning at high tide. Hike up Mount Misen for panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, and explore the peaceful Daisho-in temple complex. Spend the night in a traditional ryokan with a full kaiseki dinner.
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Osaka, Japan
Japan's culinary capital is a feast of takoyaki, kushikatsu and street food in the neon-lit Dotonbori and Namba areas. Visit the lively Kuromon Ichiba market in the morning and explore the retro charm of Shinsekai. Osaka Castle and the Umeda Sky Building round out the city's highlights.
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Tokyo, Japan
A final day in Tokyo for last-minute shopping in Shibuya or Harajuku and a farewell dinner at a favourite spot. Pick up souvenirs in the underground malls of Shinjuku Station or browse character goods in Akihabara. A perfect city to end a grand Japanese adventure before flying home.