Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 61 travelers

A Week in Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara

Tuesday, July 18, 2023 - Tokyo

Start your Japan adventure in Tokyo, the bustling capital city. Begin by exploring the historic Asakusa district, home to the iconic Senso-ji Temple. Immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture as you wander through the Nakamise Shopping Street, lined with souvenir shops and street food stalls.

  • Senso-ji Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Nakamise Shopping Street: Varies, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, July 19, 2023 - Tokyo

Visit the futuristic neighborhood of Odaiba, known for its shopping malls and entertainment attractions. Explore the teamLab Borderless digital art museum, where you can immerse yourself in stunning interactive displays. Enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo from the observation deck of the Tokyo Tower.

  • teamLab Borderless: ¥3,200 (approx. $30), 2-3 hours
  • Tokyo Tower: ¥1,200 (approx. $11), 1-2 hours
Thursday, July 20, 2023 - Kyoto

Take a high-speed train to Kyoto, a city known for its rich cultural heritage. Begin your day by visiting the famous Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), a stunning Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf. Explore the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and visit the historic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.

  • Kinkaku-ji Temple: ¥400 (approx. $4), 1-2 hours
  • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine: Free, 2-3 hours
Friday, July 21, 2023 - Kyoto

Discover the traditional district of Higashiyama, filled with narrow streets, wooden buildings, and historic temples. Explore the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, offering panoramic views of the city. Visit the Gion district, famous for its geisha culture, and keep an eye out for geishas in traditional attire.

  • Kiyomizu-dera Temple: ¥400 (approx. $4), 1-2 hours
  • Gion District: Free, 2-3 hours
Saturday, July 22, 2023 - Osaka

Head to Osaka, a vibrant city known for its delicious street food and lively atmosphere. Start your day at Osaka Castle, a magnificent feudal-era castle surrounded by beautiful gardens. Visit the lively Dotonbori district, famous for its neon lights, entertainment, and mouthwatering food.

  • Osaka Castle: ¥600 (approx. $6), 1-2 hours
  • Dotonbori District: Varies, 2-3 hours
Sunday, July 23, 2023 - Osaka

Explore the Universal Studios Japan theme park, offering thrilling rides, entertainment shows, and attractions based on popular movies. Enjoy the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, experience the adrenaline rush of roller coasters, and immerse yourself in the magic of movie sets.

  • Universal Studios Japan: ¥8,200 (approx. $75), 6-8 hours
Monday, July 24, 2023 - Nara

Take a day trip to Nara, a city famous for its ancient temples and free-roaming deer. Begin your visit at Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, one of the largest bronze statues in the world. Explore Nara Park and interact with the friendly deer, considered sacred in Japanese culture.

  • Todai-ji Temple: ¥600 (approx. $6), 1-2 hours
  • Nara Park: Free, 2-3 hours

Recommendations

If you have extra time in Tokyo, consider visiting the vibrant Shibuya district, famous for its iconic pedestrian crossing and trendy shopping. In Kyoto, explore the scenic district of Higashiyama, which offers picturesque streets and traditional tea houses. A day trip to Hiroshima, known for its historical significance and the Peace Memorial Park, is also highly recommended.

To make the most of your trip and save money, consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass, which provides unlimited travel on JR trains for a set period. This pass will be especially useful for traveling between cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara.

For hotel and flight prices, check out this link.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version