Explore Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo on a budget with this 7-day laid-back itinerary.

Kyoto

Osaka

Mountainside Shinto shrine dating from 711 A.D. featuring a path with hundreds of traditional gates.

Long-running museum with Japanese sculptures, paintings, calligraphy & metalwork, plus a cafe.

400-year-old iconic market studded with stalls offering all manner of Japanese edibles.

A popular sightseeing path runs uphill through this forest of towering bamboo stalks.

This venerable Zen temple at the foot of mountains features teahouses & serene, expansive gardens.

Spring blossoms, fall colors & mountains can be viewed from this famed wood bridge.

Revered castle dating to 1597 & since rebuilt, featuring gardens & a museum with varied exhibits.

One of the world's biggest aquariums, with exhibits ranging from Arctic to tropical marine life.

Large, public city park with lakes, fountains & forested areas with mature trees.

Completed in 645, this temple, Tokyo's oldest, was built to honor Kannon, the goddess of mercy.

Bustling shopping street connecting the main gate of Sensoji Temple & the main hall.

Popular city park featuring ample walking paths, a lake with boat rentals, a zoo & several museums.

Sprawling wholesale fish market with an array of seafood & viewing areas for a popular tuna auction.

Hundreds of stores, including many luxury brands, in a multi-use building with a rooftop garden.