Culturally Immersive 7-Day Travel Itinerary to Japan

You're a travel expert specializing in culturally immersive experiences. Create a 7-day travel itinerary for my trip to Japan. The itinerary should focus on local traditions, cultural landmarks, and authentic experiences (food, festivals, etc.). For each day, include specific activities, locations, and cultural tips tailored to my preferences for history, food, and outdoor activities.

Here's a suggested 7-day itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo and Exploration of Shinjuku

- Arrive at Tokyo Narita or Haneda airport

- Check-in to a hotel in the Shinjuku district

- Visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a free observation deck with great city views

- Explore the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden for a blend of Japanese, French, and English landscaping

- Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at a local izakaya

Day 2: Tokyo's Cultural Landmarks

- Visit the Meiji Shrine, a serene Shinto shrine located in a forested area

- Take a stroll down Takeshita Street in Harajuku, known for its unique and eclectic fashion

- Explore the Asakusa district, including Senso-ji Temple, one of the oldest temples in Japan

- Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in the afternoon

- Savor a delicious sushi dinner at the Tsukiji Fish Market

Day 3: Travel to Kyoto and Fushimi Inari Shrine

- Take a bullet train to Kyoto

- Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates

- Hike the famous orange torii gate trail

- Check-in to a hotel in the Gion district, known for its geisha culture

- Enjoy a traditional Kyoto-style dinner and watch a geisha performance

Day 4: Kyoto's Cultural Heritage

- Visit the Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), a stunning example of Japanese architecture

- Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and enjoy a scenic walk

- Visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous temples in Japan

- Attend a traditional Japanese martial arts performance, such as kendo or karate

- Sample local street food at the Gion district

Day 5: Nara and Its Ancient Temples

- Take a day trip to Nara, a city located about an hour from Kyoto by train

- Visit the Todai-ji Temple, home to the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world

- Explore the Nara Park, a large park that is home to over 1,000 wild deer

- Visit the Kasuga-taisha Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous shrines in Japan

- Return to Kyoto in the evening and enjoy a traditional Kyoto-style dinner

Day 6: Hiroshima and Miyajima Island

- Take a bullet train to Hiroshima

- Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a somber reminder of the city's history

- Take a ferry to Miyajima Island and watch the sunset over the famous Itsukushima Shrine, which appears to be floating during high tide

- Try some local specialties, such as okonomiyaki and oysters

- Return to Hiroshima in the evening and enjoy a traditional dinner

Day 7: Return to Tokyo and Last-Minute Shopping

- Take a bullet train back to Tokyo

- Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs in the Shibuya or Harajuku districts

- Visit the teamLab Borderless digital art museum in Odaiba

- Enjoy a farewell dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Tokyo

- Depart from Tokyo Narita or Haneda airport for your return journey

Cultural tips:

- Learn basic Japanese phrases, such as "konnichiwa" (hello), "arigatou" (thank you), and "sumimasen" (excuse me)

- Remove your shoes before entering temples or traditional homes

- Respect for tradition and elders is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture

- Try to avoid tipping, as it is not customary in Japan

- Be mindful of dress codes and modesty when visiting temples or shrines.