Japan

Absolutely, I'd be happy to help plan your 21-day adventure in Japan with car rentals in mind! Let's dive into your ideal itinerary:

Day 1-3: Tokyo

• Day 1: Explore the bustling streets of Shinjuku and Shibuya, visit Meiji Shrine, and enjoy shopping and dining.
• Day 2: Visit Asakusa for Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street, then head to Akihabara for electronics and anime.
• Day 3: Take a day trip to nearby Nikko to see Toshogu Shrine and the beautiful natural scenery.

Day 4-6: Hakone

• Day 4: Drive to Hakone and enjoy the hot springs, Hakone Open-Air Museum, and a cruise on Lake Ashi.
• Day 5: Explore Owakudani Valley, ride the Hakone Ropeway, and visit Hakone Shrine.
• Day 6: Drive to Mount Fuji for stunning views and maybe even a hike if weather permits.

Day 7-9: Kyoto

• Day 7: Drive to Kyoto and visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and Gion District.
• Day 8: Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, and the historic district of Higashiyama.
• Day 9: Visit Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and maybe take a day trip to Nara to see the deer park and Todai-ji Temple.

Day 10-12: Osaka

• Day 10: Drive to Osaka and visit Osaka Castle, Dotonbori for street food, and Umeda Sky Building for panoramic views.
• Day 11: Explore the vibrant districts of Shinsekai and Amerikamura, and maybe visit Universal Studios Japan.
• Day 12: Take a day trip to Himeji to see Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 13-15: Hiroshima and Miyajima

• Day 13: Drive to Hiroshima and visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
• Day 14: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the iconic floating torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine.
• Day 15: Explore the island further, hike Mount Misen, and enjoy the local cuisine.

Day 16-18: Kanazawa

• Day 16: Drive to Kanazawa and visit Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, and the historic Higashi Chaya District.
• Day 17: Explore the samurai district of Nagamachi, visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, and try local seafood at Omicho Market.
• Day 18: Drive to Shirakawa-go to see the traditional thatched-roof houses and then head to Takayama for its old town and morning market.

Day 19-21: Nagoya and Return to Tokyo

• Day 19: Drive to Nagoya and visit Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, and Osu Kannon Temple.
• Day 20: Explore the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, and maybe visit Inuyama Castle.
• Day 21: Return to Tokyo, drop off the car, and spend your last day shopping, dining, or visiting any spots you missed.

This itinerary offers a mix of city exploration, cultural experiences, natural beauty, and historical sites across Japan. With a car rental, you'll have the flexibility to explore at your own pace and reach off-the-beaten-path destinations. Enjoy your 21-day journey through the Land of the Rising Sun!