Japan Trip.

4 adults · Thu Dec 3 – Fri Dec 18, 2026

✈️ flight · 🚅 Shinkansen · 🚆 regular train · 🚇 subway · 🚶 walk · 🏠🏨 stay · 📍 be here by

15days · 13 nights in Japan
4stays, all booked
5train legs still to buy
≈ $876trains for all 4

📅 Trip calendar

Tap a day to open its plan. 🛏 = where you sleep that night.

Tokyo 1KyotoOsakaTokyo 2Flying
SunMonTueWedThuFriSat
29
30
1
2
3Thu · Dec
✈️ Fly out BWI 6:15 AM ETBe at BWI by 3:45 AM Booked
4Fri · DecTokyo
🛬 Land Narita 4:30 PM
🚆 Trains to Nogata~$76 for 4 Train to buy
Arrive, rest near Nogata
🛏 Nakano Airbnb
5Sat · DecTokyo
Nakano Broadway · Shinjuku
🛏 Nakano Airbnb
6Sun · DecTokyo
Shibuya · teamLab Borderless
🛏 Nakano Airbnb
7Mon · DecTokyo
Tsukiji · teamLab Planets
🛏 Nakano Airbnb
8Tue · DecKyoto
🏠 Airbnb checkout 10:00 AM
🚅 Tokyo → Kyoto ~1:00 PM~$354 for 4 Train to buy
Kyoto Station · Gion at night
🛏 APA Kyoto Eki-Higashi
9Wed · DecKyoto
Fushimi Inari · Kiyomizu · Gion
🛏 APA Kyoto Eki-Higashi
10Thu · DecKyoto
Arashiyama · Kinkaku-ji
🛏 APA Kyoto Eki-Higashi
11Fri · DecKyoto
Nishiki Market · free afternoon
🛏 APA Kyoto Eki-Higashi
12Sat · DecOsaka
🚆 Kyoto → Osaka ~11:20 AM~$15 for 4 Train to buy
Shinsaibashi · Dotonbori
🛏 LEGALIE Shinsaibashi
13Sun · DecOsaka
Osaka Castle · Kuromon
🛏 LEGALIE Shinsaibashi
14Mon · DecOsaka
Universal Studios Japan
🛏 LEGALIE Shinsaibashi
15Tue · DecTokyo
🚅 Osaka → Tokyo ~12:30 PM~$368 for 4 Train to buy
Senso-ji after dusk
🛏 Sakura Cross Ueno
16Wed · DecTokyo
Senso-ji · Ueno Park · Ameyoko
🛏 Sakura Cross Ueno
17Thu · DecTokyo
🚆 Skyliner ~2:20 PM~$63 for 4
✈️ Fly home NRT 6:15 PM Booked
Short last morning
18Fri · Dec
🛬 Arrive BWI 12:48 AM ET
19

🛒 Still to buy

Bullet-train tickets for Dec 8 and Dec 15 (smartEX is slightly cheaper and refunds for ¥320 per person before departure), plus the local trains on Dec 4, 12, 15 and 17.

Thu, Dec 3

✈️ Fly outBooked

  • ✈️ Depart BWI 6:15 AM ET to Narita (NRT)
  • 2 stops, multiple airlines, about 20h 15m
Thu, Dec 17

✈️ Fly homeFlight booked

  • Check out by 11:00 AM
  • 🚶 Walk to Iriya Station (4 min)
  • 🚇 Hibiya line 1 stop to Ueno (~2 min)
  • 🚶 Walk to Keisei Ueno (~5 min)
  • 🚆 Keisei Skyliner → Narita, about 41 min · about $63 for 4 (Access Express about $31, 60–70 min)
  • ✈️ Depart Narita 6:15 PM JST · 2 stops, about 20h 33m
Fri, Dec 18

🛬 Arrive BWI 12:48 AM ET

⏱️ Travel legs and suggested times
DateWhenLegTime
Dec 33:45 AM ET📍 Be at BWI to check in (about 2.5 hours before an international flight)
Dec 36:15 AM ET✈️ Flight BWI to Narita, 2 stops (lands 4:30 PM JST Dec 4)20h 15m
Dec 1711:00 AM🏨 Check out (ask the front desk to hold bags; last morning in Ueno)
Dec 17~1:50 PM🚶🚇🚶 Leave the hotel: walk to Iriya, Hibiya line to Ueno, walk to Keisei Ueno~15 min
Dec 17~2:20 PM🚆 Keisei Skyliner, Keisei Ueno to Narita Airport (arrive ~3:00 PM)41 min
Dec 173:15 PM📍 Be at airline check-in at Narita, 3 hours before the flight
Dec 176:15 PM✈️ Flight Narita to BWI, 2 stops (lands 12:48 AM ET Dec 18)20h 33m

Clock times are suggestions in Japan time (JST) unless marked ET. Match them to the actual train you book.

Fri, Dec 4

🛬 Arrive TokyoTrain not booked

  • 🛬 Land Narita 4:30 PM JST
  • 🚆 Keisei Skyliner Narita → Nippori (36 min; e.g. 5:43 → 6:19 PM, backups 5:22 / 6:03)
  • 🚆 JR Yamanote Nippori → Takadanobaba (~17 min)
  • 🚆 Seibu-Shinjuku line Takadanobaba → Nogata (~10 min, Local trains only — rapid and express trains skip Nogata) · about $76 for 4 (¥3,000 each) for this day
  • 🚶 Walk from Nogata Station to the Airbnb (~700 m, 8–10 min)
  • Allow about 1 hour at the airport for immigration and bags
Fri, Dec 4 – Tue, Dec 8 · 4 nights

🏠 Tokyo: Nakano AirbnbBooked

  • Wakamiya, Nakano-ku · 🚶 ~8–10 min to Nogata Station (Seibu-Shinjuku line, local trains only)
  • Seibu-Shinjuku line to Seibu-Shinjuku in ~15 min · Nakano Broadway: Kanto Bus 中01 from Nogata Station to Nakano Station, or ~25–30 min on foot
⏱️ Travel legs and suggested times
DateWhenLegTime
Dec 44:30 PM🛬 Land at Narita, then immigration and bags~1 hr
Dec 45:43 PM🚆 Keisei Skyliner, Narita Airport to Nippori (arrive 6:19 PM; earlier 5:22 or later 6:03 as backups)36 min
Dec 4~6:20 PM🚶 Transfer inside Nippori Station to the JR platforms~5 min
Dec 4~6:25 PM🚆 JR Yamanote line (toward Ikebukuro), Nippori to Takadanobaba (arrive ~6:42 PM)~17 min
Dec 4~6:48 PM🚆 Seibu-Shinjuku line, Takadanobaba to Nogata (arrive ~7:00 PM). Local trains only — rapid and express trains skip Nogata.~10 min
Dec 4~7:00 PM🚶 Walk, Nogata Station to the Airbnb (see Airbnb app for directions)~8–10 min
Dec 810:00 AM🏠 Check out of the Airbnb (10:00 AM checkout) and walk to Nogata Station (~8–10 min)
Dec 8~10:15 AM🚆 Seibu-Shinjuku line local to Takadanobaba (~10 min), then JR Yamanote toward Ikebukuro/Ueno to Tokyo Station (~28 min), arriving ~11:00 AM. That leaves ~1.5 hr at Tokyo Station: coin lockers, early lunch, ekiben shopping at Gransta, or switch to an earlier Nozomi. One transfer, inside Takadanobaba Station. Alternative: Kanto Bus 中01 to Nakano, then JR Chuo Rapid to Tokyo.~45 min
Dec 812:30 PM📍 Be at the Shinkansen gates at Tokyo Station, 30 min early (grab ekiben lunch)
Dec 8~1:00 PM🚅 Nozomi Shinkansen, Tokyo to Kyoto (arrive ~3:15 PM)~2h 15m
Dec 84:00 PM🏨 Check in at APA Hotel Kyoto Eki-Higashi, a short walk from the station

Clock times are suggestions in Japan time (JST) unless marked ET. Match them to the actual train you book.

🗺️ Day by day · Nakano days

Suggested days you can swap. Visit times are approximate. Must-see Optional

Where you’re stayingMust-see, numbered in visit orderOptionalStation / transfer

Day 1 · Fri Dec 4 evening · arrival ~7:10 PM

🗺️ Narita Airport → Nippori Station → Takadanobaba Station → Nogata Station → Airbnb. After you arrive: rest and eat near Nogata Station; save Nakano Broadway for Day 2. Open route in Google Maps

    Evening

    • Optional Rest and eat near Nogata Station, a few minutes from the Airbnb · Nakano Broadway is ~25 min away and Mandarake closes 20:00, so save the full visit for Day 2
      If you head to Nakano after dark anyway: Walk the lit, covered Sun Mall arcade from Nakano Station’s north exit to Broadway (~5 min). Most Broadway shops close ~8 PM, so tonight is a quick look; the full browse is Day 2. Upper-floor theme bars stay open until ~midnight (cover charge, often cash only). For dinner, the alleys off the arcade, Fureai Road and Showa Shindo, are packed with tiny izakaya, ramen counters and standing bars until ~11 PM–midnight. Many counters seat only a few, so for 4 an easy pick is Torikizoku (flat-price yakitori) on Sun Mall. Bring cash. The north exit is under construction (new atre Nakano opens Dec 9), but the walk to Broadway is unaffected.
      Nakano after dark (Day 1) (1 of 3)
      Nakano after dark (Day 1)
      Nakano after dark (Day 1) (2 of 3)
      Nakano after dark (Day 1)
      Nakano after dark (Day 1) (3 of 3)
      Nakano after dark (Day 1)

    Day 2 · Sat Dec 5 · Vintage and Shinjuku

    🗺️ Airbnb (Nogata) → Nakano Broadway → Shinjuku → Omoide Yokocho → back to the Airbnb Optional morning: Koenji or Shimokitazawa vintage shops (Koenji is the closer of the two). Open route in Google Maps

      Morning

      • Optional Koenji or Shimokitazawa vintage shops · ~1.5–2 hr · many open around 11:00–12:00 · from the Airbnb, Koenji is an ~18–20 min walk south; Shimokitazawa is ~40 min by train via Shinjuku
        Koenji
        Koenji
        Koenji
        Koenji
        Koenji
        Koenji
        Shimokitazawa
        Shimokitazawa
        Shimokitazawa
        Shimokitazawa
        Shimokitazawa
        Shimokitazawa
      • Optional Kichijoji and Inokashira Park — a relaxed alternative to Koenji/Shimokitazawa: shopping streets, Harmonica Yokocho alleys, and a pond-side park · ~2–3 hr · from Nogata, Kanto Bus or taxi to the JR Chuo line, then ~10 min west; or ask a route planner
        Kichijoji and Inokashira Park (1 of 3)
        Kichijoji and Inokashira Park
        Kichijoji and Inokashira Park (2 of 3)
        Kichijoji and Inokashira Park
        Kichijoji and Inokashira Park (3 of 3)
        Kichijoji and Inokashira Park

      Midday

      • Must-see Nakano Broadway (vintage toys, manga, Mandarake) · ~2 hr · go after 12:00, when Mandarake opens (12:00–20:00; building guide 10:00–20:00) · Kanto Bus 中01 from Nogata Station to Nakano Station, or ~25–30 min on foot (5 min from Nakano Station via Sun Mall)
        Nakano Broadway
        Nakano Broadway
        Nakano Broadway
        Nakano Broadway
        Nakano Broadway
        Nakano Broadway

      Afternoon / evening

      • Must-see Shinjuku · ~2–3 hr · JR Chuo from Nakano Station in ~5 min; Seibu-Shinjuku line back to Nogata in ~15 min (local) · evening food in Omoide Yokocho or nearby alleys; Shinjuku Gyoen is optional if you start earlier (confirm park hours)
        Shinjuku · Omoide Yokocho
        Shinjuku · Omoide Yokocho
        Shinjuku · Omoide Yokocho
        Shinjuku · Omoide Yokocho
        Shinjuku · Omoide Yokocho
        Shinjuku · Omoide Yokocho

      Day 3 · Sun Dec 6 · Shibuya and teamLab Borderless

      🗺️ Airbnb (Nogata) → Shibuya Crossing → teamLab Borderless (Azabudai Hills) → back to the Airbnb Alternative: do teamLab Planets on Monday with Tsukiji instead of Borderless today. Open route in Google Maps

        Skip Tsukiji today — it’s Sunday, and many outer-market shops are closed.

        Morning / afternoon

        • Must-see Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko, and Center-gai · ~2–3 hr · about 30–35 min from the Airbnb via Seibu-Shinjuku and JR · lunch in Shibuya or a depachika
          Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko, and Center-gai
          Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko, and Center-gai
          Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko, and Center-gai
          Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko, and Center-gai
          Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko, and Center-gai
          Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko, and Center-gai

        Afternoon / evening

        • Must-see teamLab Borderless (Azabudai Hills, near Roppongi) · ~2–3 hr · buy timed tickets ahead · usual hours 8:30–21:00, last entry 1 hour before close · weekend slots sell out · ~20 min from Shibuya, ~45–50 min from the Airbnb
          teamLab Borderless
          teamLab Borderless
          teamLab Borderless
          teamLab Borderless
          teamLab Borderless
          teamLab Borderless
        • Optional Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka illumination — blue-and-white street lights framing Tokyo Tower, a 10–15 min walk from Borderless · usually early Nov – Dec 25, about 17:00–23:00 (2026 dates not yet officially confirmed) · free
          Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka illumination (1 of 3)
          Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka illumination
          Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka illumination (2 of 3)
          Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka illumination
          Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka illumination (3 of 3)
          Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka illumination
        • Optional Ebisu Garden Place, Baccarat “Eternal Lights” chandelier — huge crystal chandelier and Christmas market · Nov 14, 2026 – Jan 11, 2027, chandelier ~11:00–23:00 · free · Ebisu is 2 stops from Shibuya on JR Yamanote
          Ebisu Garden Place, Baccarat Eternal Lights (1 of 3)
          Ebisu Garden Place, Baccarat Eternal Lights
          Ebisu Garden Place, Baccarat Eternal Lights (2 of 3)
          Ebisu Garden Place, Baccarat Eternal Lights
          Ebisu Garden Place, Baccarat Eternal Lights (3 of 3)
          Ebisu Garden Place, Baccarat Eternal Lights
        • Optional If you’d rather do teamLab Planets (Toyosu, barefoot, some knee-deep water, no door tickets), save it for Monday with Tsukiji instead of doing both

        Day 4 · Mon Dec 7 · Tsukiji, Planets, Akihabara

        🗺️ Airbnb (Nogata) → Tsukiji outer market → teamLab Planets → Akihabara → back to the Airbnb teamLab Planets is if you didn’t do Borderless on Sunday. Open route in Google Maps

          Morning

          • Must-see Tsukiji outer market (eat breakfast or an early lunch here) · ~1.5–2 hr · visitor hours 9:00–14:00 · Monday is a market day · ~45–55 min transit from the Airbnb
            Tsukiji outer market
            Tsukiji outer market
            Tsukiji outer market
            Tsukiji outer market
            Tsukiji outer market
            Tsukiji outer market

          Afternoon

          • Must-see teamLab Planets, Toyosu (if you didn’t do Borderless yesterday) · ~1.5–2 hr · buy timed tickets ahead — none are sold at the door · usual hours 8:00–22:00, last entry 1 hour before close · short hop from Tsukiji · wear pants you can roll up
            teamLab Planets
            teamLab Planets
            teamLab Planets
            teamLab Planets
            teamLab Planets
            teamLab Planets

          Late afternoon / evening

          • Optional Akihabara (electronics, anime, retro games) — optional today since it’s 5–8 min from the Ueno hotel on Days 12–14 · ~2 hr · shops typically ~10:00/11:00–20:00/21:00 · back to the Airbnb in ~40 min (JR Yamanote to Takadanobaba, then Seibu-Shinjuku line to Nogata) · or save a shorter visit for the Ueno stay if the day runs long
            Akihabara
            Akihabara
            Akihabara
            Akihabara
            Akihabara
            Akihabara
          • Optional Marunouchi illumination — champagne-gold lights along Naka-dori next to Tokyo Station · Nov 12, 2026 – Feb 14, 2027 (hours TBA, typically ~17:00–23:00) · free · a calm alternative to Akihabara if you’re tired
            Marunouchi illumination (1 of 3)
            Marunouchi illumination
            Marunouchi illumination (2 of 3)
            Marunouchi illumination
            Marunouchi illumination (3 of 3)
            Marunouchi illumination

          Tue Dec 8 is the Airbnb’s 10:00 AM checkout and a Nozomi around 1:00 PM — no extra sightseeing squeezed in.

          🛍️ Shopping and food · Tokyo 1 (Nakano base)

          Tax-free shopping (once, for the whole trip): from Nov 1, 2026 you pay the tax-inclusive price at participating shops (bring your passport; usually ¥5,000+ tax-excluded per store per day), then get the refund after a customs check at Narita before airline check-in, at a kiosk or on Visit Japan Web. Keep the goods with you. Details: Japan Customs.

          • Transit needed Nakano Broadway — vintage toys, manga, figures. Building guide 10:00–20:00; Mandarake 12:00–20:00 and open daily. Some smaller shops close Wednesdays (you’ll be in Ueno on Wed Dec 16). About 5 min from Nakano Station through Sun Mall; from the Airbnb, Kanto Bus 中01 (Nogata Station → Nakano Station) or ~25–30 min on foot. Eat in the basement or along Sun Mall.
          • Transit needed Shinjuku — department stores, electronics, night-food alleys (Omoide Yokocho). Shop hours vary, often ~10:00–20:00/21:00. Seibu-Shinjuku line from Nogata, about 15 min.
          • Transit needed Shibuya — fashion, Center-gai, department-store food floors. Typical shops ~10:00/11:00–20:00/21:00. About 30–35 min from the Airbnb via Shinjuku.
          • Transit needed Akihabara — electronics, anime goods, retro games. Typical shops ~10:00/11:00–20:00/21:00 (some later). About 35–40 min from the Airbnb via Takadanobaba. Easy to pair with Day 4.
          Tue, Dec 15

          🚅 Osaka → TokyoNot booked

          • 🚇 Midosuji line Shinsaibashi → Shin-Osaka (about 15 min). Bullet trains leave from Shin-Osaka, not Osaka Station
          • 🚅 Nozomi Shinkansen Shin-Osaka → Tokyo Station, about 2h 25m · about $368 for 4 ($92 each)
          • 🚆 JR Yamanote or Keihin-Tohoku line Tokyo → Ueno (about 8 min)
          • 🚇 Hibiya line Ueno → Iriya (1 stop, ~2 min)
          • 🚶 4-minute walk to hotel
          Tue, Dec 15 – Thu, Dec 17 · 2 nights

          🏨 Tokyo: Sakura Cross Hotel Ueno IriyaBooked

          • Maisonette Twin Room with 2 Sofa Beds (two levels, sleeps 6)
          • Check-in 4:00 PM Dec 15 · Check-out 11:00 AM Dec 17
          • Non-refundable
          • Address: 3-18-18 Negishi, Taito-ku · 🚶 Iriya Station (Hibiya line) 4-minute walk
          ⏱️ Travel legs and suggested times
          DateWhenLegTime
          Dec 1511:00 AM🏨 Check out of LEGALIE
          Dec 15~11:15 AM🚇 Midosuji line, Shinsaibashi to Shin-Osaka (arrive ~11:30 AM)~15 min
          Dec 1512:00 PM📍 Be at the Shinkansen gates at Shin-Osaka, 30 min early
          Dec 15~12:30 PM🚅 Nozomi Shinkansen, Shin-Osaka to Tokyo (arrive ~2:55 PM)~2h 25m
          Dec 15~3:05 PM🚆 JR Yamanote or Keihin-Tohoku, Tokyo to Ueno~8 min
          Dec 15~3:20 PM🚇🚶 Hibiya line, Ueno to Iriya (1 stop), plus walk to hotel~2 min + 4 min walk
          Dec 154:00 PM🏨 Check in at Sakura Cross Hotel Ueno Iriya
          Dec 1711:00 AM🏨 Check out (ask the front desk to hold bags; last morning in Ueno)
          Dec 17~1:50 PM🚶🚇🚶 Leave the hotel: walk to Iriya, Hibiya line to Ueno, walk to Keisei Ueno~15 min
          Dec 17~2:20 PM🚆 Keisei Skyliner, Keisei Ueno to Narita Airport (arrive ~3:00 PM)41 min
          Dec 173:15 PM📍 Be at airline check-in at Narita, 3 hours before the flight
          Dec 176:15 PM✈️ Flight Narita to BWI, 2 stops (lands 12:48 AM ET Dec 18)20h 33m

          Clock times are suggestions in Japan time (JST) unless marked ET. Match them to the actual train you book.

          🗺️ Day by day · Ueno days

          Suggested days you can swap. Visit times are approximate. Must-see Optional

          Where you’re stayingMust-see, numbered in visit orderOptionalStation / transfer

          Do not plan Tsukiji for Wed Dec 16 — Tsukiji Uogashi is closed that Wednesday, and many outer-market shops follow the wholesale calendar. Do Tsukiji on Mon Dec 7 (Tokyo 1) instead.

          Day 12 · Tue Dec 15 evening · arrival ~3:30 PM, check-in 4:00 PM

          🗺️ Hotel LEGALIE Osaka Shinsaibashi East → Shin-Osaka Station → Tokyo Station → Ueno Station → Iriya Station → Sakura Cross Hotel Ueno Iriya Travel day, ending at the new hotel. Evening: Senso-ji grounds and Kaminari-mon after dusk (must-see); optional Akihabara if you skipped it in Tokyo 1. Open route in Google Maps

            Evening

            • Must-see Senso-ji grounds and Kaminari-mon after dusk · ~1 hr · the grounds stay open; the main hall closes at 17:00 in winter, so you may only catch the last minutes of the hall or just the gates and lanterns · about 15–20 min walk or short transit from Iriya
              Senso-ji and Kaminari-mon
              Senso-ji and Kaminari-mon
              Senso-ji and Kaminari-mon
              Senso-ji and Kaminari-mon
              Senso-ji and Kaminari-mon
              Senso-ji and Kaminari-mon
            • Optional Tokyo Skytree — night views from the Tembo Deck (350 m) · ~1–1.5 hr · ~10:00–22:00, last entry 21:00 · about ¥1,800–2,000 online in advance · 15–20 min from Asakusa on foot or one Tobu stop
              Tokyo Skytree (1 of 3)
              Tokyo Skytree
              Tokyo Skytree (2 of 3)
              Tokyo Skytree
              Tokyo Skytree (3 of 3)
              Tokyo Skytree
            • Optional Akihabara in the evening if you skipped it in Tokyo 1 · shops into the 20:00s · JR from Ueno in about 5–8 min
              Akihabara
              Akihabara
              Akihabara
              Akihabara
              Akihabara
              Akihabara

            Dinner in Asakusa or along Ameyoko (many market stalls wind down by ~20:00).

            Day 13 · Wed Dec 16 · Asakusa and Ueno

            🗺️ Sakura Cross Hotel Ueno Iriya → Senso-ji → Ueno Park → Ameyoko → back to the hotel Optional: more Akihabara, or teamLab if you didn’t go in Tokyo 1 (Planets in Toyosu is closer from Ueno). Open route in Google Maps

              Morning

              • Must-see Senso-ji (go early) · ~1–1.5 hr · main hall 6:30–17:00 from October to March; grounds open later than the hall · Nakamise souvenir street on the approach

              Midday

              • Must-see Ueno Park stroll · ~1–1.5 hr · about a 10–15 min walk from the hotel · optional museum inside the park (confirm hours the day before)
                Ueno Park
                Ueno Park
                Ueno Park
                Ueno Park
                Ueno Park
                Ueno Park

              Afternoon

              • Must-see Ameyoko market (snacks, clothes, cosmetics) · ~1–1.5 hr · shops typically ~10:00–20:00 · some close on selected Wednesdays, so a few stalls may be shut today
                Ameyoko
                Ameyoko
                Ameyoko
                Ameyoko
                Ameyoko
                Ameyoko
              • Optional Kappabashi kitchen street — knives, ceramics, and the plastic food samples · ~1 hr · many shops ~9:00–17:00, some closed Sundays · between Ueno and Asakusa, ~15 min walk from the hotel
                Kappabashi kitchen street (1 of 3)
                Kappabashi kitchen street
                Kappabashi kitchen street (2 of 3)
                Kappabashi kitchen street
                Kappabashi kitchen street (3 of 3)
                Kappabashi kitchen street
              • Optional More Akihabara, or teamLab if you didn’t go in Tokyo 1 (Planets in Toyosu is the closer of the two from Ueno) · buy timed tickets ahead

              Day 14 · Thu Dec 17 morning · checkout 11:00 AM, leave the hotel ~1:50 PM

              🗺️ Sakura Cross Hotel Ueno Iriya → Iriya Station → Ueno Station → Keisei Ueno Station → Narita Airport Includes the Skyliner to Narita. Optional morning, if you’re back to leave around 1:50 PM: a short stroll in Ueno Park or Ameyoko, or Senso-ji’s Hagoita Market. Open route in Google Maps

                Morning

                • Optional Last stroll in Ueno Park or Ameyoko, bags held at the hotel · keep it short
                • Optional Yanaka and Yanaka Ginza — old-Tokyo shopping street, temples, and cats · ~1.5 hr · ~15–20 min walk from the hotel (or 1 stop to Nippori) · keep it to the morning so you’re back by ~1:50 PM
                  Yanaka and Yanaka Ginza (1 of 3)
                  Yanaka and Yanaka Ginza
                  Yanaka and Yanaka Ginza (2 of 3)
                  Yanaka and Yanaka Ginza
                  Yanaka and Yanaka Ginza (3 of 3)
                  Yanaka and Yanaka Ginza
                • Optional Senso-ji’s year-end Hagoita (battledore) Market runs Dec 17–19 — a nice last morning if you go early and are back in time to leave around 1:50 PM
                  Hagoita (battledore) Market
                  Hagoita (battledore) Market
                  Hagoita (battledore) Market
                  Hagoita (battledore) Market
                  Hagoita (battledore) Market
                  Hagoita (battledore) Market

                Tsukiji on this Thursday would be a market day (9:00–14:00), but with a 1:50 PM hotel departure for Narita it’s tight — only try it if you missed Dec 7.

                🛍️ Shopping and food · Tokyo 2 (Ueno base)

                See Tokyo 1 for the once-only tax-free / passport note (refund at Narita before check-in).

                • Walk from hotel Ameyoko — snacks, clothes, cosmetics, street food between Ueno and Okachimachi. Typical shops ~10:00–20:00; some close on selected Wednesdays (this hits Dec 16). About 10–15 min walk from Sakura Cross via Ueno Station.
                • Walk from hotel Asakusa / Nakamise — souvenirs, snacks, and traditional toys on the approach to Senso-ji. Hours vary; many stalls run morning to early evening. About 15–20 min walk or a short subway hop from Iriya. Eat in Asakusa in the evening (tempura and similar, hours vary).
                • Transit needed Akihabara (if you want more after Tokyo 1) — same shops as on the Tokyo 1 tab. JR from Ueno in about 5–8 min.
                Tue, Dec 8

                🚅 Tokyo → KyotoNot booked

                • 🚆 Seibu-Shinjuku line Nogata → Takadanobaba, then JR Yamanote → Tokyo Station (~45 min door to door, one in-station transfer)
                • 🚅 Nozomi Shinkansen, Tokyo Station → Kyoto, about 2h 15m
                • Reserved seats about $354 for 4 ($88 each). Unreserved about $337
                Tue, Dec 8 – Sat, Dec 12 · 4 nights

                🏨 Kyoto: APA Hotel Kyoto Eki-HigashiBooked

                • King × King connecting room with breakfast
                • Refundable until Dec 7
                • Confirmation number: check the booking email
                ⏱️ Travel legs and suggested times
                DateWhenLegTime
                Dec 810:00 AM🏠 Check out of the Airbnb (10:00 AM checkout) and walk to Nogata Station (~8–10 min)
                Dec 8~10:15 AM🚆 Seibu-Shinjuku line local to Takadanobaba (~10 min), then JR Yamanote toward Ikebukuro/Ueno to Tokyo Station (~28 min), arriving ~11:00 AM. That leaves ~1.5 hr at Tokyo Station: coin lockers, early lunch, ekiben shopping at Gransta, or switch to an earlier Nozomi. One transfer, inside Takadanobaba Station. Alternative: Kanto Bus 中01 to Nakano, then JR Chuo Rapid to Tokyo.~45 min
                Dec 812:30 PM📍 Be at the Shinkansen gates at Tokyo Station, 30 min early (grab ekiben lunch)
                Dec 8~1:00 PM🚅 Nozomi Shinkansen, Tokyo to Kyoto (arrive ~3:15 PM)~2h 15m
                Dec 84:00 PM🏨 Check in at APA Hotel Kyoto Eki-Higashi, a short walk from the station
                Dec 1211:00 AM🏨 Check out of APA Kyoto and walk to Kyoto Station
                Dec 12~11:20 AM🚆 JR Special Rapid, Kyoto to Osaka Station (arrive ~11:50 AM)28 min
                Dec 12~12:00 PM🚇 Midosuji line, Umeda to Shinsaibashi~7 min
                Dec 124:00 PM🏨 Check in at LEGALIE (ask to leave bags early, then explore Den Den Town and Amerikamura)

                Clock times are suggestions in Japan time (JST) unless marked ET. Match them to the actual train you book.

                🗺️ Day by day

                Suggested days you can swap. Visit times are approximate. Must-see Optional

                Where you’re stayingMust-see, numbered in visit orderOptionalStation / transfer

                Save Nishiki Market for Friday — many shops close on Wednesdays (Dec 9).

                Day 5 · Tue Dec 8 evening · arrival ~3:15 PM, check-in 4:00 PM

                🗺️ Airbnb (Nogata) → Takadanobaba → Tokyo Station → Kyoto Station → APA Hotel Kyoto Eki-Higashi Travel day, ending at the new hotel. Optional evening: Kyoto Station shopping (Porta, The Cube, Isetan) and/or a first look at Gion after dark. Open route in Google Maps

                  Evening

                  • Optional Kyoto Station shopping (Porta, The Cube, Isetan) — it’s a short walk from the hotel · and/or a first look at Gion after dark · ~1–1.5 hr · dinner at the station or in Gion / Pontocho
                    Kyoto Station shopping (1 of 3)
                    Kyoto Station shopping
                    Kyoto Station shopping (2 of 3)
                    Kyoto Station shopping
                    Kyoto Station shopping (3 of 3)
                    Kyoto Station shopping
                    Gion (1 of 3)
                    Gion
                    Gion (2 of 3)
                    Gion
                    Gion (3 of 3)
                    Gion

                  Day 6 · Wed Dec 9 · East Kyoto (Fushimi, Kiyomizu, Gion)

                  🗺️ APA Hotel Kyoto Eki-Higashi → Fushimi Inari → Kiyomizu-dera → Gion → back to the hotel Walk down Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka after Kiyomizu-dera, on the way toward Gion. Open route in Google Maps

                    Morning

                    • Must-see Fushimi Inari — go early · ~45–60 min for the main gates, or ~2–2.5 hr if you walk the mountain · grounds are commonly visited at any hour (the official access page doesn’t list a closing time); no admission fee · JR Nara Line about 5 min from Kyoto Station
                      Fushimi Inari (1 of 3)
                      Fushimi Inari
                      Fushimi Inari (2 of 3)
                      Fushimi Inari
                      Fushimi Inari (3 of 3)
                      Fushimi Inari
                    • Optional Fushimi sake district — old breweries and the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum (9:30–16:30, last entry 16:00) · ~1–1.5 hr · Keihan line from Fushimi-Inari to Chushojima (~5 min) + 5 min walk · tastings included
                      Fushimi sake district (1 of 3)
                      Fushimi sake district
                      Fushimi sake district (2 of 3)
                      Fushimi sake district
                      Fushimi sake district (3 of 3)
                      Fushimi sake district
                    • Optional Sanjusangen-do — 1,001 standing Kannon statues in one long hall · ~45 min · winter hours 9:00–16:00 (last entry 15:30), ¥600 · on the way from Fushimi to Kiyomizu, ~15 min walk from the hotel
                      Sanjusangen-do (1 of 3)
                      Sanjusangen-do
                      Sanjusangen-do (2 of 3)
                      Sanjusangen-do
                      Sanjusangen-do (3 of 3)
                      Sanjusangen-do

                    Afternoon

                    • Must-see Kiyomizu-dera, then walk down Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka · ~1.5–2 hr including the slopes · opens 6:00; closing time changes by season (typically 18:00 outside summer — confirm on the official page; no December night opening, the autumn evenings ended Nov 30) · bus from Kyoto Station ~15–20 min plus a 10 min uphill walk
                      Kiyomizu-dera, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka (1 of 3)
                      Kiyomizu-dera, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka
                      Kiyomizu-dera, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka (2 of 3)
                      Kiyomizu-dera, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka
                      Kiyomizu-dera, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka (3 of 3)
                      Kiyomizu-dera, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka

                    Evening

                    • Must-see Gion stroll · ~1–1.5 hr · better after dark; be considerate if you see geiko or maiko
                      Gion (1 of 3)
                      Gion
                      Gion (2 of 3)
                      Gion
                      Gion (3 of 3)
                      Gion
                    • Optional Pontocho dinner — narrow lantern-lit alley of restaurants along the Kamo River, a 5 min walk from Gion · many places need reservations; budget varies widely
                      Pontocho (1 of 3)
                      Pontocho
                      Pontocho (2 of 3)
                      Pontocho
                      Pontocho (3 of 3)
                      Pontocho

                    Day 7 · Thu Dec 10 · Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji

                    🗺️ APA Hotel Kyoto Eki-Higashi → Arashiyama bamboo grove → Kinkaku-ji → back to the hotel Optional: Tenryu-ji garden, next to the grove, before you go on to Kinkaku-ji. Open route in Google Maps

                      Morning

                      • Must-see Arashiyama bamboo grove — go early · grove itself ~30–45 min, the area ~2–3 hr · free, no gate hours · JR Sagano Line ~15 min to Saga-Arashiyama plus a walk
                        Arashiyama bamboo grove (1 of 3)
                        Arashiyama bamboo grove
                        Arashiyama bamboo grove (2 of 3)
                        Arashiyama bamboo grove
                        Arashiyama bamboo grove (3 of 3)
                        Arashiyama bamboo grove
                      • Optional Tenryu-ji garden, next to the grove · ~45–60 min · 8:30–17:00, last entry 16:50
                        Tenryu-ji garden (1 of 3)
                        Tenryu-ji garden
                        Tenryu-ji garden (2 of 3)
                        Tenryu-ji garden
                        Tenryu-ji garden (3 of 3)
                        Tenryu-ji garden

                      Afternoon

                      • Must-see Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) · ~45–60 min · official hours 9:00–17:00 daily, adults ¥500 · about 30–40 min by bus from the Arashiyama area
                        Kinkaku-ji (1 of 3)
                        Kinkaku-ji
                        Kinkaku-ji (2 of 3)
                        Kinkaku-ji
                        Kinkaku-ji (3 of 3)
                        Kinkaku-ji
                      • Optional Arashiyama Hanatouro — lantern-lit paths through the bamboo grove and around Togetsukyo · usually held for ~10 days in mid-December, ~17:00–20:30 · 2026 dates not announced yet — if they include Dec 10, end the day back in Arashiyama after dark
                        Arashiyama Hanatouro (1 of 3)
                        Arashiyama Hanatouro
                        Arashiyama Hanatouro (2 of 3)
                        Arashiyama Hanatouro
                        Arashiyama Hanatouro (3 of 3)
                        Arashiyama Hanatouro

                      Day 8 · Fri Dec 11 · Nishiki and a looser day

                      🗺️ APA Hotel Kyoto Eki-Higashi → Nishiki Market → back to the hotel Optional afternoon: Nijo Castle or Ginkaku-ji / the Philosopher’s Path, or more Gion and station shopping. Open route in Google Maps

                        Morning

                        • Must-see Nishiki Market · ~1–1.5 hr · most shops around 9:00/10:00–17:00/18:00, hours vary by stall · Friday is a good day · ~15–20 min transit from the hotel
                          Nishiki Market (1 of 3)
                          Nishiki Market
                          Nishiki Market (2 of 3)
                          Nishiki Market
                          Nishiki Market (3 of 3)
                          Nishiki Market

                        Afternoon / evening

                        • Optional Nijo Castle or Ginkaku-ji / the Philosopher’s Path — confirm hours the day before · or more Gion and station shopping before tomorrow’s 11:20 train
                          Nijo Castle (1 of 3)
                          Nijo Castle
                          Nijo Castle (2 of 3)
                          Nijo Castle
                          Nijo Castle (3 of 3)
                          Nijo Castle
                          Ginkaku-ji and the Philosopher's Path (1 of 3)
                          Ginkaku-ji and the Philosopher's Path
                          Ginkaku-ji and the Philosopher's Path (2 of 3)
                          Ginkaku-ji and the Philosopher's Path
                          Ginkaku-ji and the Philosopher's Path (3 of 3)
                          Ginkaku-ji and the Philosopher's Path

                        Sat Dec 12 is checkout at 11:00 AM and the train to Osaka around 11:20 AM.

                        🛍️ Shopping and food · Kyoto

                        See Tokyo 1 for the once-only tax-free / passport note (refund at Narita before check-in).

                        • Walk from hotel Porta, The Cube, and JR Kyoto Isetan — souvenirs, food halls, department-store shopping in and under Kyoto Station. Porta shops roughly 10:00/11:00–20:00/20:30 (souvenir floors open earlier/later); Isetan 10:00–20:00. The Cube is now part of Porta. Short walk from APA Kyoto Eki-Higashi.
                        • Walk from hotel Kyoto Avanti — department-store / mall just south of the station (Hachijo). Shopping area 10:00–21:00; Don Quijote on 2F 9:00–24:00 (irregular holidays). Short walk from the hotel.
                        • Transit needed Nishiki Market — Kyoto food, pickles, tea, kitchenware; eat as you walk. Many shops close Wednesdays (hits Dec 9). About 15–20 min by subway or bus from the hotel.
                        • Transit needed Gion-area shops — crafts, souvenirs, and snacks along Hanamikoji and near Yasaka. Hours vary; many open late morning to evening. About 15–20 min by bus or subway from the hotel.
                        Sat, Dec 12

                        🚆 Kyoto → OsakaNot booked

                        • 🚆 JR Special Rapid, Kyoto → Osaka Station (28 min) · about $15 for 4
                        • 🚇 Midosuji subway Umeda → Shinsaibashi (~7 min, about $1.50 each)
                        • 🚶 Walk to hotel
                        Sat, Dec 12 – Tue, Dec 15 · 3 nights

                        🏨 Osaka: Hotel LEGALIE Osaka Shinsaibashi EastBooked

                        • Superior Twin Type A ("Deluxe Twin Room" on the booking)
                        • Non-refundable
                        ⏱️ Travel legs and suggested times
                        DateWhenLegTime
                        Dec 1211:00 AM🏨 Check out of APA Kyoto and walk to Kyoto Station
                        Dec 12~11:20 AM🚆 JR Special Rapid, Kyoto to Osaka Station (arrive ~11:50 AM)28 min
                        Dec 12~12:00 PM🚇 Midosuji line, Umeda to Shinsaibashi~7 min
                        Dec 124:00 PM🏨 Check in at LEGALIE (ask to leave bags early, then explore Den Den Town and Amerikamura)
                        Dec 1511:00 AM🏨 Check out of LEGALIE
                        Dec 15~11:15 AM🚇 Midosuji line, Shinsaibashi to Shin-Osaka (arrive ~11:30 AM)~15 min
                        Dec 1512:00 PM📍 Be at the Shinkansen gates at Shin-Osaka, 30 min early
                        Dec 15~12:30 PM🚅 Nozomi Shinkansen, Shin-Osaka to Tokyo (arrive ~2:55 PM)~2h 25m
                        Dec 15~3:05 PM🚆 JR Yamanote or Keihin-Tohoku, Tokyo to Ueno~8 min
                        Dec 15~3:20 PM🚇🚶 Hibiya line, Ueno to Iriya (1 stop), plus walk to hotel~2 min + 4 min walk
                        Dec 154:00 PM🏨 Check in at Sakura Cross Hotel Ueno Iriya

                        Clock times are suggestions in Japan time (JST) unless marked ET. Match them to the actual train you book.

                        🗺️ Day by day

                        Suggested days you can swap. Visit times are approximate. Must-see Optional

                        Where you’re stayingMust-see, numbered in visit orderOptionalStation / transfer

                        Universal Studios Japan is a full day. The plan below puts it on Monday Dec 14, which should be a bit less crowded than Sunday; you can swap the two full days if you prefer.

                        Day 9 · Sat Dec 12 afternoon / evening · arrival ~12:10 PM

                        🗺️ APA Hotel Kyoto Eki-Higashi → Kyoto Station → Osaka Station → Shinsaibashi Station → Hotel LEGALIE Osaka Shinsaibashi East Travel day, ending at the new hotel. After you arrive: Shinsaibashi-suji (must-see), optional Amerika-mura and/or Den Den Town, then Dotonbori in the evening. Open route in Google Maps

                          Afternoon

                          • Must-see Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street · ~1–2 hr · walk from LEGALIE (you’re on it) · leave bags at the hotel; official check-in is 4:00 PM
                            Shinsaibashi-suji (1 of 3)
                            Shinsaibashi-suji
                            Shinsaibashi-suji (2 of 3)
                            Shinsaibashi-suji
                            Shinsaibashi-suji (3 of 3)
                            Shinsaibashi-suji
                          • Optional Amerika-mura streetwear and vintage · ~1 hr · ~5–10 min walk · shops often ~11:00/12:00–20:00
                            Amerika-mura (1 of 3)
                            Amerika-mura
                            Amerika-mura (2 of 3)
                            Amerika-mura
                            Amerika-mura (3 of 3)
                            Amerika-mura
                          • Optional Den Den Town (Nipponbashi) for toys, anime, and retro games · ~1–2 hr · ~10–15 min walk · many shops ~11:00–20:00
                            Den Den Town (1 of 3)
                            Den Den Town
                            Den Den Town (2 of 3)
                            Den Den Town
                            Den Den Town (3 of 3)
                            Den Den Town

                          Evening

                          • Must-see Dotonbori lights and street food · ~1.5–2 hr · ~5–10 min walk from the hotel
                            Dotonbori (1 of 3)
                            Dotonbori
                            Dotonbori (2 of 3)
                            Dotonbori
                            Dotonbori (3 of 3)
                            Dotonbori
                          • Optional Hozenji Yokocho — quiet stone-paved alley with a moss-covered Fudo statue, right behind Dotonbori · ~20–30 min · free
                            Hozenji Yokocho (1 of 3)
                            Hozenji Yokocho
                            Hozenji Yokocho (2 of 3)
                            Hozenji Yokocho
                            Hozenji Yokocho (3 of 3)
                            Hozenji Yokocho
                          • Optional Midosuji illumination — 4 km of lit ginkgo trees along Midosuji, steps from the hotel · Nov 3 – Dec 31, 2026, ~17:00–late · free
                            Midosuji illumination (1 of 3)
                            Midosuji illumination
                            Midosuji illumination (2 of 3)
                            Midosuji illumination
                            Midosuji illumination (3 of 3)
                            Midosuji illumination

                          Day 10 · Sun Dec 13 · Osaka Castle, Kuromon, and the neighborhood

                          🗺️ Hotel LEGALIE Osaka Shinsaibashi East → Osaka Castle → Kuromon Market → back to the hotel Optional: Namba Parks, or more Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori. Open route in Google Maps

                            Morning

                            • Must-see Osaka Castle keep and park · ~1.5 hr · 9:00–18:00, last entry 17:30 · open Dec 13 (closed only Dec 28–Jan 1) · about 20–25 min by subway from Shinsaibashi
                              Osaka Castle (1 of 3)
                              Osaka Castle
                              Osaka Castle (2 of 3)
                              Osaka Castle
                              Osaka Castle (3 of 3)
                              Osaka Castle

                            Midday

                            • Must-see Kuromon Market (eat here) · ~1–1.5 hr · many shops ~8:00/9:00–17:00/18:00; some close on Sundays, but the market as a whole stays lively · ~15 min walk or a short subway hop from the hotel
                              Kuromon Market (1 of 3)
                              Kuromon Market
                              Kuromon Market (2 of 3)
                              Kuromon Market
                              Kuromon Market (3 of 3)
                              Kuromon Market
                            • Optional Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku — retro 1950s streets and kushikatsu (fried skewers; don’t double-dip the sauce) · ~1.5 hr · Sakaisuji line to Ebisucho, 1–2 stops from Nipponbashi
                              Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku (1 of 3)
                              Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku
                              Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku (2 of 3)
                              Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku
                              Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku (3 of 3)
                              Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku

                            Afternoon / evening

                            • Optional Namba Parks (shops 11:00–21:00, restaurants 11:00–22:00) or more Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori · walk ~10–15 min to Namba Parks, or one subway stop
                              Namba Parks (1 of 3)
                              Namba Parks
                              Namba Parks (2 of 3)
                              Namba Parks
                              Namba Parks (3 of 3)
                              Namba Parks
                            • Optional Umeda Sky Building at sunset — open-air rooftop deck 173 m up · ~1 hr · roughly 9:30–22:30, ¥2,000 adults (confirm on the official site) · Midosuji line to Umeda, ~10 min from Shinsaibashi
                              Umeda Sky Building (1 of 3)
                              Umeda Sky Building
                              Umeda Sky Building (2 of 3)
                              Umeda Sky Building
                              Umeda Sky Building (3 of 3)
                              Umeda Sky Building
                            • Optional Nara half-day — bowing deer in Nara Park and the giant Buddha at Todai-ji · ~4–5 hr round trip · Kintetsu line from Osaka-Namba to Kintetsu-Nara, ~40 min · would replace the optional afternoon
                              Nara half-day (1 of 3)
                              Nara half-day
                              Nara half-day (2 of 3)
                              Nara half-day
                              Nara half-day (3 of 3)
                              Nara half-day

                            Day 11 · Mon Dec 14 · Universal Studios Japan

                            🗺️ Hotel LEGALIE Osaka Shinsaibashi East → Universal Studios Japan → back to the hotel Open route in Google Maps

                              All day

                              • Must-see Universal Studios Japan · full day, about 8–10 hr · buy a Studio Pass ahead · WaterWorld is closed Nov 28–Dec 27, 2026 · consider an Express Pass (sold separately, date-specific) · Super Nintendo World may need an Area Timed Entry ticket (buy ahead, or a free timed/standby ticket in the official USJ app after you enter — the app is required for those tickets) · December is busy even on a weekday · hours change by day, so check the official schedule before you go (a November 2026 look at that calendar listed Dec 14 9:00–21:00, and Dec 13 9:00–22:00 if you swap days) · about 30–40 min transit from Shinsaibashi
                                Universal Studios Japan (1 of 3)
                                Universal Studios Japan
                                Universal Studios Japan (2 of 3)
                                Universal Studios Japan
                                Universal Studios Japan (3 of 3)
                                Universal Studios Japan

                              Tue Dec 15 is checkout at 11:00 AM and a Nozomi around 12:30 PM — morning is for bags and the train, not sightseeing.

                              🛍️ Shopping and food · Osaka

                              See Tokyo 1 for the once-only tax-free / passport note (refund at Narita before check-in).

                              • Walk from hotel Shinsaibashi-suji — fashion, souvenirs, a long covered arcade. Typical shops ~10:00–20:00; the street is open daily. Walk from LEGALIE. Easy lunch stop.
                              • Walk from hotel Dotonbori — food souvenirs, character shops, and the best street-food evening. About 5–10 min walk.
                              • Walk from hotel Amerika-mura — streetwear and vintage. Shops often ~11:00/12:00–20:00. About 5–10 min walk.
                              • Walk from hotel Den Den Town (Nipponbashi) — electronics, anime, retro games (Osaka’s Akihabara). Many shops ~11:00–20:00. About 10–15 min walk.
                              • Walk from hotel Namba Parks — mall and rooftop garden. Shops 11:00–21:00, restaurants 11:00–22:00. About 10–15 min walk, or one subway stop.

                              ⏱️ Travel times for every leg

                              DateWhenLegTime
                              Dec 33:45 AM ET📍 Be at BWI to check in (about 2.5 hours before an international flight)
                              Dec 36:15 AM ET✈️ Flight BWI to Narita, 2 stops (lands 4:30 PM JST Dec 4)20h 15m
                              Dec 44:30 PM🛬 Land at Narita, then immigration and bags~1 hr
                              Dec 45:43 PM🚆 Keisei Skyliner, Narita Airport to Nippori (arrive 6:19 PM; earlier 5:22 or later 6:03 as backups)36 min
                              Dec 4~6:20 PM🚶 Transfer inside Nippori Station to the JR platforms~5 min
                              Dec 4~6:25 PM🚆 JR Yamanote line (toward Ikebukuro), Nippori to Takadanobaba (arrive ~6:42 PM)~17 min
                              Dec 4~6:48 PM🚆 Seibu-Shinjuku line, Takadanobaba to Nogata (arrive ~7:00 PM). Local trains only — rapid and express trains skip Nogata.~10 min
                              Dec 4~7:00 PM🚶 Walk, Nogata Station to the Airbnb (see Airbnb app for directions)~8–10 min
                              Dec 810:00 AM🏠 Check out of the Airbnb (10:00 AM checkout) and walk to Nogata Station (~8–10 min)
                              Dec 8~10:15 AM🚆 Seibu-Shinjuku line local to Takadanobaba (~10 min), then JR Yamanote toward Ikebukuro/Ueno to Tokyo Station (~28 min), arriving ~11:00 AM. That leaves ~1.5 hr at Tokyo Station: coin lockers, early lunch, ekiben shopping at Gransta, or switch to an earlier Nozomi. One transfer, inside Takadanobaba Station. Alternative: Kanto Bus 中01 to Nakano, then JR Chuo Rapid to Tokyo.~45 min
                              Dec 812:30 PM📍 Be at the Shinkansen gates at Tokyo Station, 30 min early (grab ekiben lunch)
                              Dec 8~1:00 PM🚅 Nozomi Shinkansen, Tokyo to Kyoto (arrive ~3:15 PM)~2h 15m
                              Dec 84:00 PM🏨 Check in at APA Hotel Kyoto Eki-Higashi, a short walk from the station
                              Dec 1211:00 AM🏨 Check out of APA Kyoto and walk to Kyoto Station
                              Dec 12~11:20 AM🚆 JR Special Rapid, Kyoto to Osaka Station (arrive ~11:50 AM)28 min
                              Dec 12~12:00 PM🚇 Midosuji line, Umeda to Shinsaibashi~7 min
                              Dec 124:00 PM🏨 Check in at LEGALIE (ask to leave bags early, then explore Den Den Town and Amerikamura)
                              Dec 1511:00 AM🏨 Check out of LEGALIE
                              Dec 15~11:15 AM🚇 Midosuji line, Shinsaibashi to Shin-Osaka (arrive ~11:30 AM)~15 min
                              Dec 1512:00 PM📍 Be at the Shinkansen gates at Shin-Osaka, 30 min early
                              Dec 15~12:30 PM🚅 Nozomi Shinkansen, Shin-Osaka to Tokyo (arrive ~2:55 PM)~2h 25m
                              Dec 15~3:05 PM🚆 JR Yamanote or Keihin-Tohoku, Tokyo to Ueno~8 min
                              Dec 15~3:20 PM🚇🚶 Hibiya line, Ueno to Iriya (1 stop), plus walk to hotel~2 min + 4 min walk
                              Dec 154:00 PM🏨 Check in at Sakura Cross Hotel Ueno Iriya
                              Dec 1711:00 AM🏨 Check out (ask the front desk to hold bags; last morning in Ueno)
                              Dec 17~1:50 PM🚶🚇🚶 Leave the hotel: walk to Iriya, Hibiya line to Ueno, walk to Keisei Ueno~15 min
                              Dec 17~2:20 PM🚆 Keisei Skyliner, Keisei Ueno to Narita Airport (arrive ~3:00 PM)41 min
                              Dec 173:15 PM📍 Be at airline check-in at Narita, 3 hours before the flight
                              Dec 176:15 PM✈️ Flight Narita to BWI, 2 stops (lands 12:48 AM ET Dec 18)20h 33m

                              Clock times are suggestions in Japan time (JST) unless marked ET, worked back from the flights, 4 PM check-ins and 11 AM hotel check-outs (10 AM at the Nakano Airbnb). Match them to the actual train you book.

                              Flight times are from the booking and include layovers; the segment and layover breakdown isn't on file. Rail times are typical; ~ means approximate.

                              🚆 Train costs (all 4 travelers)

                              DateLegTimeDistanceApprox. cost
                              Dec 4🚆 Narita → Nippori → Takadanobaba → Nogata36 min + ~31 min~74 km (46 mi)$76
                              Dec 8🚅 Tokyo → Kyoto (Nozomi, reserved)~2h 15m514 km (319 mi)$354
                              Dec 12🚆 Kyoto → Osaka (JR Special Rapid)28 min43 km (27 mi)$15
                              Dec 15🚅 Shin-Osaka → Tokyo (Nozomi, reserved)~2h 25m553 km (343 mi)$368
                              Dec 17🚆 Ueno → Narita (Skyliner)41 min64 km (40 mi)$63
                              Total~6h 56m~1,248 km (776 mi)≈ $876 / ¥138,410

                              Distances are official rail route lengths (JR operating km for the Shinkansen and Kyoto line; Keisei Sky Access for the Skyliner); the Dec 4 JR and Seibu parts are approximate. Fares from a Nov 9, 2026 check at about ¥158 per $1. Short subway hops add a few dollars. A JR Pass (about $1,266 for 4) isn't worth it. Bullet-train tickets on smartEX cost ¥320 per person to refund before departure.

                              📝 Kyoto booking note

                              APA Hotel Kyoto Eki-Higashi: King × King connecting room with breakfast, refundable until Dec 7. Find the confirmation number in the booking email before check-in.

                              🧾 Hotel confirmations

                              StayDetails
                              Osaka · Dec 12–15
                              Hotel LEGALIE Osaka Shinsaibashi East                              		Superior Twin Type A ("Deluxe Twin Room" on the booking) · non-refundable
                              Tokyo · Dec 15–17
                              Sakura Cross Hotel Ueno Iriya                              		Maisonette Twin with 2 Sofa Beds (sleeps 6) · non-refundable
                              Check-in 4:00 PM Dec 15 · check-out 11:00 AM Dec 17
                              3-18-18 Negishi, Taito-ku · 4 min walk to Iriya Station
                              Kyoto · Dec 8–12
                              APA Hotel Kyoto Eki-Higashi                              		Booked separately · confirmation number not found yet

                              🚅 Train booking tips

                              • smartEX membership is free. Needs a 3D Secure credit card and a member 18 or older. Up to 6 people per booking, so all 4 fit on one.
                              • Tickets: board with a QR ticket, a paper pickup at the station, or an IC card.
                              • Changes and refunds: free changes until 4 minutes before departure; a refund costs ¥320 per person.
                              • Hayatoku 21 discount: Nozomi Tokyo ↔ Shin-Osaka for ¥12,980 per adult (fare sheet from Mar 13, 2026). Book by 23:30 JST, 21 days ahead: Nov 17 for Dec 8 and Nov 24 for Dec 15. Kyoto is a slightly shorter trip, so check its fare in smartEX.
                              • Booking hours: 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM JST.
                              • Maintenance: smartEX blocks login from midnight to 5:30 AM JST on many November dates, including Nov 15. Maintenance notice
                              • Alternatives: JR-West Online Train Reservation, a Midori no Madoguchi ticket office once in Japan, or Klook (with a markup). Hyperdia has shut down.
                              📷 Photo credits

                              Photos are from Wikimedia Commons. The HTML file embeds a downsized (~800px wide) copy of each photo so it still works offline.

                              • Nakano Broadway — Kentin, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Nakano broadway entrance.JPG
                              • Nakano Broadway — Dick Thomas Johnson, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Nakano Broadway (53147264156).jpg
                              • Nakano Broadway — Asanagi, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Mandarake Nakano main store 2024-04-11.jpg
                              • Shinjuku · Omoide Yokocho — Dick Thomas Johnson, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Omoide Yokocho (53146846682).jpg
                              • Shinjuku · Omoide Yokocho — Dick Thomas Johnson, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Omoide Yokocho (53150330935).jpg
                              • Shinjuku · Omoide Yokocho — Dick Thomas Johnson, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Omoide Yokocho (53147422411).jpg
                              • Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko, and Center-gai — Benh Lieu Song, CC BY-SA 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Tokyo Shibuya Scramble Crossing 2018-10-09.jpg
                              • Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko, and Center-gai — Joli Rumi, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: The Hachiko statue at Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan.jpg
                              • Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko, and Center-gai — Christophe95, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Shibuya Center-Gai at night.jpg
                              • teamLab Borderless — Syced, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Azabudai Hills, opening day 67.jpg
                              • teamLab Borderless — Syced, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Azabudai Hills 3.jpg
                              • teamLab Borderless — Danny With Love, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: TeamLab Borderless Azabudai Hills.jpg
                              • Tsukiji outer market — Aimaimyi, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Tsukiji Outer Market -08.jpg
                              • Tsukiji outer market — Aimaimyi, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Tsukiji Outer Market -02.jpg
                              • Tsukiji outer market — Aw1805, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Tsukiji Outer Market 2.jpg
                              • teamLab Planets — Syced, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Teamlab toyosu.jpg
                              • teamLab Planets — Sasa0403, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Photos at teamlab planets tokyo.jpg
                              • teamLab Planets — Maarten Heerlien, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Japan 2024-04-28 (53893216070).jpg
                              • Akihabara — Jakub Hałun, CC BY 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Akihabara Electric Town, Tokyo, 20240823 1617 5580.jpg
                              • Akihabara — Jmho, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Akiba denkigai.jpg
                              • Akihabara — Zairon, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Akihabara Electric Town bei Nacht 08.jpg
                              • Koenji — Suikotei, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Koenji pal 2019.jpg
                              • Koenji — Yoshibay, Public domain. Wikimedia Commons: 20140416 kouenji-pal-shouten-gai.jpg
                              • Koenji — Kentin, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Koenji look entrance suginami tokyo 2009.JPG
                              • Shimokitazawa — Aw1805, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Shimokitazawa Street 2015.jpg
                              • Shimokitazawa — Stephen Kelly, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Dense Street in Shimokitazawa (11919213554).jpg
                              • Shimokitazawa — Syced, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Walk in Shimokitazawa 5.jpg
                              • Senso-ji and Kaminari-mon — Kakidai, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Sensoji at night 8.jpg
                              • Senso-ji and Kaminari-mon — Akonnchiroll, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Sensoji 2023.jpg
                              • Senso-ji and Kaminari-mon — Kakidai, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Sensoji at night.JPG
                              • Ueno Park — Ximonic (Simo Räsänen), CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Walkway by Shinobazu Pond in Ueno Park, Ueno-kōen, Taitō, Tokyo, Japan, 2024 May - 2.jpg
                              • Ueno Park — Thomas Woodtli, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Tokyo National Museum at Ueno Park (8208602431).jpg
                              • Ueno Park — Guilhem Vellut, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Shinobazu Pond @ Ueno Park (11096168286).jpg
                              • Ameyoko — AugustGresh, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Ameya-Yokochō Entrance.jpg
                              • Ameyoko — Syced, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Ameyoko June 2022.jpg
                              • Ameyoko — Wpcpey, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Ueno Ameya-Yokocho shops under track 2015.jpg
                              • Hagoita (battledore) Market — 江戸村のとくぞう, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Hagoita-1.jpg
                              • Hagoita (battledore) Market — Shoestring, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Hagoita fair, Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan.JPG
                              • Hagoita (battledore) Market — Nesnad, CC BY 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Hagoita-onsale-zoomin-asakusa-dec2014.jpg
                              • Nakano after dark (Day 1) — Charlie fong, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Nakano San Mall Shopping Street.jpg
                              • Nakano after dark (Day 1) — Asanagi, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Kaisen Misakiko Nakano Sun Mall kita branch 2017-12-06.jpg
                              • Nakano after dark (Day 1) — Unknown chemist8103, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: 中野駅北口.JPG
                              • Kyoto Station shopping — Martin Falbisoner, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Kyoto Station November 2016 -02.jpg
                              • Kyoto Station shopping — Martin Falbisoner, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Kyoto Station November 2016 -03.jpg
                              • Kyoto Station shopping — NevinThompson, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Kyoto Station building (Hiroshi Hara, 1997) from Karasuma Street, April 2015.jpg
                              • Gion — Kanchi1979, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: JP-Kyoto-Gion-Area-Street-Night-View.jpg
                              • Gion — lumoplank, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Streets of Gion, Kyoto - Gion7708.jpg
                              • Gion — dconvertini, CC BY-SA 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Gion, Kyoto, Japan30.jpg
                              • Fushimi Inari — DuckMaestro, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: 2026-06-29 kyoto-fushimi-inari torii-romon night.jpg
                              • Fushimi Inari — Hyppolyte de Saint-Rambert, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Fushimi Inari Taisha tunnel.jpg
                              • Fushimi Inari — Balon Greyjoy, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: 20181110 Fushimi Inari shrine 11.jpg
                              • Kiyomizu-dera, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka — Martin Falbisoner, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto, November 2016 -01.jpg
                              • Kiyomizu-dera, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka — Vinodmp, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Kiyomizu dera in Kyoto.JPG
                              • Kiyomizu-dera, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka — Aporon999, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Sannenzaka-kyoto.JPG
                              • Arashiyama bamboo grove — Naokijp, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: 2021 Sagano Bamboo forest in Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan.jpg
                              • Arashiyama bamboo grove — Mitchwandrew, CC BY 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.jpg
                              • Arashiyama bamboo grove — Benh LIEU SONG from Torcy, France, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Benh 2018-10-17.jpg
                              • Tenryu-ji garden — Celuici, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Tenryu-ji garden, May 2017 1.jpg
                              • Tenryu-ji garden — Chainwit., CC BY 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Sand garden at Tenryū-ji (2020) - img 02.jpg
                              • Tenryu-ji garden — Marco Almbauer, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Tenryū-ji Garten.jpg
                              • Kinkaku-ji — Martin Falbisoner, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Kinkaku-ji in November 2016 -01.jpg
                              • Kinkaku-ji — Jakub Hałun, CC BY 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto, 20240820 1523 5130.jpg
                              • Kinkaku-ji — Basile Morin, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Water reflection of Kinkaku-ji Temple a sunny day, Kyoto, Japan.jpg
                              • Nishiki Market — Joli Rumi, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: A view of Nishiki Market, Kyoto, Japan.jpg
                              • Nishiki Market — Sergiy Galyonkin from Raleigh, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Nishiki Market, Kyoto - Flickr - Sergiy Galyonkin.jpg
                              • Nishiki Market — collinox, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Tsukemono shop by collinox in Nishiki Ichiba, Kyoto.jpg
                              • Nijo Castle — Corpse Reviver, CC BY 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Nijo Castle J09 61.jpg
                              • Nijo Castle — Zairon, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Kyoto Nijo-jo Ninomaru-goten-Palast 01.jpg
                              • Nijo Castle — Zairon, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Kyoto Nijo-jo Blick auf den Honmaru-goten-Palast 9.jpg
                              • Ginkaku-ji and the Philosopher's Path — Marie-Sophie Mejan, CC BY 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Ginkaku-ji (Silver pavilion).jpg
                              • Ginkaku-ji and the Philosopher's Path — DimiTalen, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: View of Ginshadan, Kogetsudai and the Silver Pavilion, Ginkaku-ji, Kyoto, 2016.jpg
                              • Ginkaku-ji and the Philosopher's Path — Sun jess, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: The Philosopher's Walk in Kyoto.jpg
                              • Shinsaibashi-suji — Francisco Restivo from Porto, Portugal, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Shinsaibashi-suji (4793145349).jpg
                              • Shinsaibashi-suji — そらみみ, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street 20190201.jpg
                              • Shinsaibashi-suji — Don Ramey Logan, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Shinsaibashi Suji Shopping Street Osaka Japan by Don Ramey Logan.jpg
                              • Amerika-mura — W236 at Japanese Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: American-Village -01-.jpg
                              • Amerika-mura — No machine-readable author provided. Davey 88 assumed (based on copyright claims)., CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Americamura.JPG
                              • Amerika-mura — Wpcpey, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Amerikamura 2014.jpg
                              • Den Den Town — Stéfan Le Dû, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Den den town electric street osaka japan.jpg
                              • Den Den Town — Oilstreet, CC BY 2.5. Wikimedia Commons: Nipponbashi Osaka Japan01-r.jpg
                              • Den Den Town — Fabio Achilli from Milano, Italy, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Den Den Town, Osaka (44195719941).jpg
                              • Dotonbori — Martin Falbisoner, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Dotonbori, Osaka, at night, November 2016.jpg
                              • Dotonbori — Schellack, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Glico Man sign, Dotonbori.JPG
                              • Dotonbori — Joli Rumi, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Entrance to Dotonbori, Osaka, Japan.jpg
                              • Osaka Castle — Don Ramey Logan, CC BY 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Osaka Castle 2 Osaka Japan by Don Ramey Logan.jpg
                              • Osaka Castle — Spudgun67, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Gokuraku-bashi Bridge - 1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan.jpg
                              • Osaka Castle — Takipoint123, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Osaka Castle August 2024.jpg
                              • Kuromon Market — Bgabel, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: JP-osaka-arkade.jpg
                              • Kuromon Market — Mc681, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Kuromon-ichiba in 201408.JPG
                              • Kuromon Market — DVMG, CC BY 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Kuromon Market - panoramio (5).jpg
                              • Namba Parks — 663highland, CC BY 2.5. Wikimedia Commons: 150328 Namba Parks Osaka Japan02s5.jpg
                              • Namba Parks — Wpcpey, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: NAMBA PARKS Overview 201306.jpg
                              • Namba Parks — 663highland, CC BY 2.5. Wikimedia Commons: Namba parks04s3872.jpg
                              • Universal Studios Japan — Tokumeigakarinoaoshima, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: UNIVERSAL STUDIOS JAPAN GATE.jpg
                              • Universal Studios Japan — Csiiiyu, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Universal Studios Japan entrance.jpg
                              • Universal Studios Japan — Christophe95, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Helix of Hollywood Dream – The Ride.jpg
                              • Kichijoji and Inokashira Park — ARandomName123, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Inokashira park pond 2024.jpg
                              • Kichijoji and Inokashira Park — Syced, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Harmonica Yokocho 2.jpg
                              • Kichijoji and Inokashira Park — Stephen Kelly from San Francisco, CA, USA, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Harmonica Yokocho in Kichijoji (53417122805).jpg
                              • Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka illumination — Kakidai, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka Illumination 2024 (1).jpg
                              • Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka illumination — Kakidai, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka Illumination 2024 (5).jpg
                              • Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka illumination — Syced, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Keyakizaka illuminations 2023 year end.jpg
                              • Ebisu Garden Place, Baccarat Eternal Lights — Syced, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Ebisu Garden Place, Lustre Baccarat Eternal Light.jpg
                              • Ebisu Garden Place, Baccarat Eternal Lights — Wadakuramon, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Baccarat Chandelier 2026–1-6.jpg
                              • Ebisu Garden Place, Baccarat Eternal Lights — Kakidai, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Baccarat Chandelier in Tokyo.JPG
                              • Marunouchi illumination — Shoestring, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Marunouchi Illumination, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan.JPG
                              • Marunouchi illumination — Dick Thomas Johnson from Tokyo, Japan, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Marunouchi Illumination 2022 (52646781419).jpg
                              • Marunouchi illumination — Dick Thomas Johnson from Tokyo, Japan, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Marunouchi Illumination 2022 (52646958335).jpg
                              • Tokyo Skytree — Suicasmo, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Views from Tokyo Skytree at night 20200815.jpg
                              • Tokyo Skytree — 4300streetcar, CC BY 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Tokyo Skytree at night from Asakusa June 2025.jpg
                              • Tokyo Skytree — Kaydee H, CC BY-SA 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Tokyo Skytree Night View.jpg
                              • Kappabashi kitchen street — Basile Morin, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Kappabashi-dori streetcorner (Kitchen town - southern end) a sunny morning in Tokyo Japan.jpg
                              • Kappabashi kitchen street — Basile Morin, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Cream and red coffee cup-shaped balconies, Niimi Tableware, Kappabashi Dougu Street, Tokyo, Japan.jpg
                              • Kappabashi kitchen street — Guilhem Vellut from Annecy, France, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Kappabashi Hondori @ Asakusa (13824478025).jpg
                              • Yanaka and Yanaka Ginza — Christophe95, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Yanaka Ginza 2.jpg
                              • Yanaka and Yanaka Ginza — 1904.CC, CC BY 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Yanaka Ginza entrance.jpg
                              • Yanaka and Yanaka Ginza — Stephen Kelly from San Francisco, CA, USA, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Yanaka Ginza, Yanaka (53417016334).jpg
                              • Fushimi sake district — 663highland, CC BY 2.5. Wikimedia Commons: Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum02s4592.jpg
                              • Fushimi sake district — 663highland, CC BY 2.5. Wikimedia Commons: Gekkeikan Sake Brewing02st3200.jpg
                              • Fushimi sake district — Sake-simon~commonswiki, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Gekkeikan Uchigura.JPG
                              • Sanjusangen-do — 663highland, CC BY 2.5. Wikimedia Commons: Sanjusangendo temple01s1408.jpg
                              • Sanjusangen-do — Zairon, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Kyoto Sanjusangen-do Haupthalle 06.jpg
                              • Sanjusangen-do — Eric Salard, CC BY-SA 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: KYOTO TEMPLE SANJUSANGEN-DO TEMPLE OF 1000 BOUDDHA (16224344660).jpg
                              • Pontocho — Sergiy Galyonkin from Raleigh, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Pontocho Alley, Kyoto - Flickr - Sergiy Galyonkin.jpg
                              • Pontocho — Wolfiewolf from Pontocho street in Nakagyo, Kyoto, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Pontocho by Wolfiewolf in Nabeyacho, Kyoto.jpg
                              • Pontocho — kissh from Pontocho street in Nakagyo, Kyoto, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Pontocho by kissh in Kyoto.jpg
                              • Arashiyama Hanatouro — そらみみ, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Lights of Arashiyama-Hanatoro 20131217.jpg
                              • Arashiyama Hanatouro — 松岡明芳, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Arashiyama Hanatōro 嵐山花灯路 渡月橋付近DSCF5514.JPG
                              • Arashiyama Hanatouro — 松岡明芳, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Arashiyama Hanatōro 嵐山花灯路 DSCF5423.JPG
                              • Hozenji Yokocho — Ethan Doyle White, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Moss Covered Statue at Hozenji, Osaka.jpg
                              • Hozenji Yokocho — Mr.ちゅらさん, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Hozenji Yokocho 2023-11.jpg
                              • Hozenji Yokocho — KENPEI, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: Hozenji-yokocho1.jpg
                              • Midosuji illumination — Tokumeigakarinoaoshima, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Midosuji illumination 2022.jpg
                              • Midosuji illumination — Tokumeigakarinoaoshima, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Midosuji illumination 2022 (1).jpg
                              • Midosuji illumination — Tokumeigakarinoaoshima, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: MIDOSUJI ILLUMINATION 2019.jpg
                              • Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku — Sakai Yayoi, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Tower.jpg
                              • Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku — Dick Thomas Johnson from Tokyo, Japan, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku at night 2019-04-12.jpg
                              • Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku — king nikochan from Shinsekai, Naniwa, Osaka, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia Commons: Blowfish and Tsutenkaku by king nikochan in Shinsekai, Osaka.jpg
                              • Umeda Sky Building — Martin Falbisoner, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Umeda Sky Building, Osaka, November 2016 -02.jpg
                              • Umeda Sky Building — DXR, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: View of Kita-Ku, Osaka, from Umeda Sky Building 20190415 1.jpg
                              • Umeda Sky Building — Sakai Yayoi, CC0. Wikimedia Commons: Umeda Sky Building 2026.jpg
                              • Nara half-day — Martin Falbisoner, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Sika deer in Nara Park, November 2016.jpg
                              • Nara half-day — Marek Ślusarczyk (Tupungato), CC BY 3.0. Wikimedia Commons: 003 Nara deer in Japan - deer of Nara Park under autumn leaves.jpg
                              • Nara half-day — Gilles Desjardins, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia Commons: Daibutsu Grand bouddha - Tōdai-ji - Nara.jpg