Japan 1 Week Itinerary: Explore the Scenic and Cultural Charms of Chugoku & Shikoku

Start your journey at one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. Famous for its "floating" torii gate that seems to hover over the water at high tide, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit for travelers interested in Japanese culture, sacred sites, and Instagram-worthy views.

Recommended Highlights:
・Capture both high- and low-tide views of the torii gate.
・Explore the atmospheric grounds and surrounding bay.
・Hike Mount Misen for sweeping coastal scenery.

Information:
・Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM (varies seasonally)
・Cost: ¥300 for adults
・Access: Miyajima Island, Hiroshima. 30 minutes from Hiroshima City via train + ferry from Miyajimaguchi
・Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for scenic beauty; early mornings for fewer crowds

Special Events:
The Kangen-sai Festival (July) features a stunning Gagaku boat procession, immersing visitors in classical Japanese music and Shinto ritual.

Accommodation near Itsukushima Shrine recommended by Japanese people >>

Accommodation near Miyajima recommended by Japanese people >>

Website： https://www.itsukushimajinja.jp/en/

Ranked among the Three Great Gardens of Japan, Korakuen Garden in Okayama offers a serene and scenic retreat. With its perfectly manicured landscapes, seasonal flowers, and peaceful ambiance, this is a top spot for lovers of traditional Japanese gardens.

Recommended Highlights:
・Relax among koi ponds and immaculate walking paths.
・Visit nearby Okayama Castle for a historic pairing.
・Enjoy matcha in one of the garden's scenic tea houses.

Information:
・Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Mar–Sep), 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Oct–Feb)
・Cost: ¥410 for adults
・Access: 1-5 Korakuen, Kita Ward, Okayama. 10 minutes by tram or 25-minute walk from JR Okayama Station
・Best Time to Visit: Spring for cherry blossoms, autumn for vibrant foliage

Special Events:
The Genso Teien Illumination (summer/fall) transforms the garden with enchanting nighttime lights—ideal for couples and photographers.

Accommodation near Okayama Korakuen recommended by Japanese people >>

Website： https://okayama-korakuen.jp/section/english/

Craving a totally different landscape? Head to the Tottori Sand Dunes, Japan’s largest sand dune formation and a standout destination for adventure seekers and off-the-beaten-path explorers. The desert-like scenery, set against the backdrop of the Sea of Japan, offers thrilling outdoor experiences.

Recommended Highlights:
・Climb the dunes for panoramic ocean views.
・Try sand sports like boarding and paragliding.
・Explore the Sand Museum’s ever-changing exhibits.

Information:
・Dunes: Open 24/7, free admission
・Sand Museum: ¥800, open 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (closed Jan–Feb)
・Access: Fukube-cho Yuyama, Tottori City. 20 minutes from JR Tottori Station by bus or taxi
・Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall for cooler hiking conditions; mornings for optimal photo lighting

Special Events:
Tottori Sand Dunes Illusion (winter) features stunning light displays that turn the dunes into a magical spectacle.

Website： https://www.sakyu-vc.com/en/

For art lovers traveling in Japan, the Otsuka Museum of Art in Naruto, Tokushima, is a must-see. This massive museum features over 1,000 life-sized ceramic reproductions of Western art masterpieces, making it one of the largest art museums in Japan and a perfect stop on your cultural itinerary.

Recommended Highlights:
・View life-sized masterpieces recreated in ceramic.
・Experience the Sistine Chapel without leaving Japan.
・Engage with interactive, educational exhibits for all ages.

Information:
・Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Mondays)
・Cost: ¥3,300 for adults
・Access: Naruto Park, Tokushima. Reachable by bus from JR Naruto Station
・Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for a relaxed, in-depth experience

Special Events:
The museum aligns seasonal shows with global art festivals and major holidays—check the schedule for exclusive events.

Website： https://o-museum.or.jp/en/

If you want to experience one of Japan’s most historic and atmospheric hot springs, head to Dogo Onsen Honkan in Matsuyama. This architectural gem has been in operation for over 1,000 years and served as inspiration for Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away.

Recommended Highlights:
・Bathe in one of Japan’s oldest hot springs.
・Tour the elegant Yushinden Room.
・Browse local crafts and treats in the surrounding onsen town.

Information:
・Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
・Cost: ¥460 and up depending on package
・Access: 5-6 Dogo Yunomachi, Matsuyama, Ehime. Short walk from Dogo Onsen Station (Iyotetsu Tram)
・Best Time to Visit: Evening hours for atmospheric lighting and fewer crowds

Special Events:
The Dogo Onsen Festival (late March) features parades, music, and food stalls celebrating local onsen culture.

Accommodations near Dogo Onsen Main Building recommended by Japanese people >>

Website： https://dogo.jp/en/

Located deep in the Iya Valley, the Iya Kazura Bridge is one of Japan’s most thrilling and historical footbridges. Suspended over a gorge and built using hardy mountain vines, this rustic bridge gives visitors a literal step back in time.

Recommended Highlights:
・Walk the vine bridge suspended over the Iya River.
・Take in dramatic canyon scenery from above.
・Combine with nearby nature or onsen visits.

Information:
・Opening Hours: Sunrise to sunset
・Cost: ¥550 for adults
・Access: Iya Valley, Miyoshi City, Tokushima. 90 minutes by bus or taxi from JR Oboke Station
・Best Time to Visit: Autumn for fall colors, spring/summer for lush greenery

Special Events:
Seasonal folklore festivals and performances are sometimes held nearby—perfect for cultural adventurers.

Website： https://miyoshi-tourism.jp/en/spot/46/

Stretching 70km from Onomichi (Hiroshima) to Imabari (Ehime), the Shimanami Kaido is Japan’s premier island-hopping cycling route. Riders enjoy breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea, with bridges connecting six scenic islands. Whether tackling the full route or enjoying a short section, cyclists can explore temples, coastlines, and citrus-scented towns along the way.

Recommended Highlights:
・Ride across ocean-spanning bridges and green islands.
・Stop at Kosanji Temple and local cafés en route.
・Choose from full or partial routes with rental drop-offs.

Information:
・Open Year-Round
・Bicycle Rental: From ¥1,100/day with return stations available
・Access: Starts in Onomichi (JR Onomichi Station) and ends in Imabari (JR Imabari Station)
・Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for ideal cycling conditions

Special Events:
The Shimanami Kaido International Cycling Event (October) brings riders from around the world to celebrate this spectacular route.

Accommodations near the Shimanami Kaido Cycling Road recommended by Japanese people >>

Website： https://www.mlit.go.jp/road/bicycleuse/good-cycle-japan/national_cycle_route/shimanami.html

This Japan 1 week itinerary offers a perfect balance of peaceful retreats, cultural depth, and unforgettable scenery. Whether it’s cycling across the Seto Inland Sea on the Shimanami Kaido, soaking in the historic waters of Dogo Onsen, or walking across the vine bridge in Iya Valley, the Chugoku and Shikoku regions promise a side of Japan that’s far from ordinary—and ideal for repeat visitors.