Are you ready to experience the magic of autumn in Japan? I love combining cities and nature on a vacation trip. Japan has some of the most unique cities in the world.
Combine this unique urban culture with vibrant maple trees ablaze in crimson and gold, serene temples nestled amongst breathtaking foliage, and crisp air that invigorates your senses and you've got a recipe for a perfect autumn adventure in Asia. ðð
Let’s embark on a 10-day journey to uncover the best of Japan during the fall foliage season. This itinerary is derived from my personal experience visiting Japan in November.
Day 1: Touch Down in Tokyo & Shibuya Adventures
Welcome to Tokyo, a fabulous blend of tradition and modernity! After settling into your hotel in the Shibuya district, prepare to be amazed by Shibuya Crossing, often called the world's busiest intersection.
Picture a massive scramble crossing where pedestrians surge from all directions – it's an experience you won't soon forget!
Pro-Tip: For a bird’s-eye view of the organized chaos below, head to the second floor of the Shibuya Starbucks – a prime spot for witnessing this iconic spectacle.
Shop the various malls in the neighborhood or play some games in the local arcade while you adjust to the time zone after your long flight.
Day 2: Exploring Tokyo's Quirky Side: Harajuku & Akihabara
Get ready to immerse yourself in Tokyo’s subcultures!
Start your day in Harajuku, a district renowned for its unique street style and "Cosplay" culture. Stroll down Takeshita Street, a pedestrian paradise packed with colorful boutiques, quirky cafes, and over-the-top fashion.
Next, venture into Akihabara, the electronics and anime hub of Tokyo. Explore towering department stores brimming with the latest gadgets and countless smaller shops dedicated to all things anime and manga.
You might even stumble upon a maid cafe, where waitresses dressed in elaborate maid costumes serve up a dose of kawaii cuteness.
✨ Deep dive on Tokyo neighborhoods to visit on your trip.
Day 3: Tokyo's Tranquil Escape: Ueno Park & SensÅ-ji Temple
Seek a moment of peace amidst Tokyo's urban jungle.
Head to Ueno Park, a spacious oasis in the heart of the city. Find a peaceful spot to enjoy a bento box lunch and simply relax by the pond and admire the vibrant foliage.
Next, immerse yourself in history and spirituality at SensÅ-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple, in Asakusa. Wander through the temple grounds, waft incense smoke for good luck, and explore the charming shops lining the approach to the temple.
Did You Know? The vibrant red Kaminarimon Gate at the entrance to SensÅ-ji is a popular photo spot!
Day 4: Bullet Train to Kyoto & Temple Hopping
It's time to experience the speed and efficiency of Japan's iconic Shinkansen bullet train! Settle in for a scenic ride to Kyoto, the former imperial capital steeped in history and tradition.
Once you've arrived in Kyoto and checked into your hotel, embark on a temple-hopping adventure! Start with Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), marveling at the exquisite Zen garden and the panoramic views of the surrounding foliage.
Next, visit HÅnen-in, a smaller temple just a short walk from Ginkaku-ji. Here, you'll find a serene atmosphere where raked gravel and moss gardens complement the vibrant autumn leaves.
✨ Explore Japan by train
Day 5: A Kaleidoscope of Colors at Eikan-dÅ & Nanzen-ji
Prepare to be wowed by some of Kyoto's most spectacular autumn foliage!
Begin your day at Eikan-dÅ Zenrin-ji, a temple renowned for its stunning autumn colors. Wander through the grounds, crossing picturesque bridges and admiring the fiery red maple trees reflected in the temple's ponds.
Continue your journey to Nanzen-ji, another temple famous for its autumn beauty. Explore the temple complex and discover a unique sight – an ancient aqueduct that runs through the grounds, adding a touch of history to the picturesque scenery.
Pro-Tip: These temples can get crowded, especially during peak foliage season. Arrive early in the morning for a more serene experience.
Day 6: Golden Splendor & a Mindful Stroll
Experience Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a Zen Buddhist temple whose top two floors are completely covered in shimmering gold leaf. The golden reflection in the surrounding pond, especially when framed by autumn foliage, is a sight to behold.
Next, embark on a leisurely stroll along the Philosopher’s Path, a charming canal-side path lined with cherry trees and maple trees.
The path is named after the influential Japanese philosopher, Nishida Kitaro, who is said to have meditated daily along this route.
Take your time, savor the tranquility, and let your mind wander as you soak in the beauty of the autumn scenery.
✨ Plan a mindful trip to Kyoto
Day 7: Exploring Osaka's Culinary Delights
Take the train from Kyoto to Osaka. Osaka is a city that truly comes alive at night!
Begin your exploration in Dotonbori, a vibrant entertainment district famous for its dazzling neon lights, larger-than-life billboards, and endless street food options.
Get ready to sample some of Osaka’s famous takoyaki (octopus dumplings) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), watching as the skilled vendors prepare these treats right before your eyes.
For an after-dinner drink, venture into an izakaya, a Japanese-style pub where you can enjoy a local beer or sake along with tasty small plates.
Foodie Alert: Always choose the street food stall with the longest line – you'll definitely be rewarded with a yummy experience!
✨ Discover things to do and day trips around Osaka
Day 8: A Day Trip to Nara: Temples, Deer, and Zen Gardens
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Nara, a city renowned for its ancient temples, tame deer, and peaceful gardens.
Wander through Nara Park, where hundreds of freely roaming deer await your arrival against a backdrop of Autumn foliage. Purchase special "deer crackers" from local vendors and enjoy a unique interaction with these gentle creatures.
Pro-Tip: Be mindful of your belongings – the deer have a knack for sniffing out snacks!
Day 9: A Journey to Hiroshima: Reflecting on History
Embark on a poignant day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima, a city forever marked by the atomic bombing but also a symbol of peace and resilience.
Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a sobering yet essential experience that tells the story of the bombing and its aftermath.
Contemplate the iconic A-Bomb Dome, a skeletal reminder of the devastation caused by the atomic bomb.
Stroll through the serene Peace Memorial Park, a place dedicated to remembrance and a testament to the enduring human spirit.
Take your time to absorb the weight of history in these spaces and allow yourself to reflect on the importance of peace.
Day 10: Sayonara, Japan!
After a final breakfast, it's time to bid farewell to Japan. As you head to the airport in Osaka, take a moment to cherish the memories you've made and the incredible Autumn beauty you've witnessed.
Whether you're intrigued by the bustling streets of Tokyo, enchanted by the serene temples of Kyoto, or moved by the resilience of Hiroshima, an autumn trip to Japan is an experience that will stay with you long after you return home.
And there you have it! This 10-day Japan autumn itinerary is just a starting point – feel free to extend or abridge the trip to accommodate the time you have available and create your own unforgettable Japanese adventure!
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