Planning your first trip to Japan?
This 10-day itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of Japan, from bustling cities and ancient temples to stunning natural landscapes.
Starting and ending at Narita International Airport, this journey will take you through Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.
Let’s dive in!
- Day 1: Arrival at Narita and Tokyo Exploration
- Day 2: Discovering Tokyo’s Highlights
- Day 3: A Day Trip to Nikko or Kamakura
- Day 4: Journey to Mt. Fuji
- Day 5: Kyoto – The Heart of Japan
- Day 6: Kyoto’s Treasures
- Day 7: A Day Trip to Nara
- Day 8: Osaka – The Foodie’s Paradise
- Day 9: Day Trips or More Osaka Fun
- Day 10: Return to Narita
- Tips for Your 10-Day Japan Adventure
- Frequently Asked Questions
Day 1: Arrival at Narita and Tokyo Exploration
Welcome to Japan!
After landing at Narita International Airport, head to your hotel in Tokyo.
Spend the evening exploring a nearby area, like Shinjuku or Akihabara, to soak in your first taste of Japan’s vibrant energy.
- Recommended Activity: Stroll through Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku and grab some yakitori.
- Stay: Tokyo
Day 2: Discovering Tokyo’s Highlights
Tokyo is a city of contrasts.
Start your day at Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, then move on to modern districts like Shibuya and Shinjuku.
Don’t forget to visit the iconic Shibuya Crossing!
- Top Spots:
- Senso-ji Temple
- Tokyo Skytree
- Shibuya Crossing
- Stay: Tokyo
Day 3: A Day Trip to Nikko or Kamakura
Take a break from the big city with a day trip!
- Option 1: Nikko Explore Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Kegon Falls.
- Option 2: Kamakura Visit the Great Buddha of Kamakura and walk along Komachi Street for souvenirs and snacks.
- Stay: Tokyo
Day 4: Journey to Mt. Fuji
Leave Tokyo and head to the Mt. Fuji area. Stay near Lake Kawaguchi for breathtaking views of Japan’s most famous mountain.
Don’t miss the peaceful Oshino Hakkai springs!
- Activities:
- Take a boat ride on Lake Kawaguchi.
- Visit Oshino Hakkai.
- Stay: Mt. Fuji area or Tokyo
Day 5: Kyoto – The Heart of Japan
Take the shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto.
This ancient city is home to stunning temples and traditional streets.
Start with Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates.
- Top Spots:
- Stay: Kyoto
Day 6: Kyoto’s Treasures
Explore more of Kyoto’s incredible sights, including the golden Kinkaku-ji and the peaceful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Don’t forget to wander through the charming streets of Gion.
- Top Spots:
- Stay: Kyoto
Day 7: A Day Trip to Nara
Take a short train ride to Nara, Japan’s first capital.
Visit the iconic Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, and enjoy feeding the friendly deer at Nara Park.
- Stay: Kyoto
Day 8: Osaka – The Foodie’s Paradise
Next, head to Osaka! Known for its lively atmosphere and amazing street food, Osaka will win your heart.
Spend the evening exploring Dotonbori, with its neon lights and delicious takoyaki stands.
- Top Spots:
- Stay: Osaka
Day 9: Day Trips or More Osaka Fun
Enjoy another day in Osaka or take a trip to Himeji Castle, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Alternatively, spend the day at Universal Studios Japan.
- Stay: Osaka
Day 10: Return to Narita
It’s time to head back to Tokyo and then Narita for your flight home.
Use this day for any last-minute shopping or sightseeing before bidding farewell to Japan.
- Activity: Stroll around Ginza or grab a final bowl of ramen in Tokyo.
Tips for Your 10-Day Japan Adventure
- Transportation: Use a JR Pass to save on train travel between cities.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms or autumn (September-November) for fall foliage.
- Packing: Comfortable walking shoes are a must!
This 10-day itinerary offers a perfect mix of culture, history, and adventure. From the bright lights of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto and the delicious food of Osaka, your journey will be unforgettable.
Ready to explore Japan? Let’s make it happen!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it worth getting a JR Pass for a 10-day trip?
Yes, if you plan to travel between multiple cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, a JR Pass can save you money on shinkansen (bullet train) fares.
2. What’s the best time of year to visit Japan?
Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September-November) for fall foliage are the most popular times due to pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
3. Do I need to know Japanese to travel around Japan?
While knowing basic Japanese phrases can be helpful, many signs are in English, and major tourist areas have English-speaking staff. Learning a few phrases can enhance your experience.
Arigato (Thank you)
