10-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka

1. Day 1: Tokyo
   Sensoji Temple (1 hr and 15 mins from Tokyo Station)

   Visit Tokyo's oldest and most significant temple that has winding streets with traditional shops and small eateries. Don't miss the Kaminarimon Gate and the famous Nakamise Shopping street where you can buy local snacks such as Ningyo-yaki, Kibi-dango, and Melon Pan

2. Day 2: Tokyo
   Meiji Jingu Shrine (1 hour from Sensoji Temple)

   One of Tokyo's most important shrines, located in a picturesque forest and featuring a serene atmosphere. A peaceful slice of traditional 19th-century Japan within the busy city

3. Day 3: Kyoto
   Fushimi Inari Shrine (2 hours from Tokyo Station via the bullet train)

   A great place to take beautiful pictures as its famous for vermilion torii gates that wind through the forest of Mount Inari. Prepare for a hike up to the summit that can take two to three hours or as long as you like

4. Day 4: Kyoto
   Kinkaku-ji Temple (1 hour from Fushimi Inari via train and bus)

   This temple features a stunning golden pavilion reflected in the pond and surrounded by rock gardens.

5. Day 5: Osaka
   Osaka Castle (2 hours from Kinkaku-ji via the JR Kyoto Line and Osaka Loop Line)

   One of Japan's most famous landmarks, is a mesmerizing symbol of Japanese history, located in the middle of a picturesque park. If you are interested in history, you can visit the museum and enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the 8th floor observatory

Time and Costs Estimates

• Sensoji Temple (1.5 hours, free)
• Meiji Jingu Shrine (1 hour, free)
• Fushimi Inari Shrine (2-3 hours, free)
• Kinkaku-ji Temple (1.5 hours, ¥400 / $3.50)
• Osaka Castle (1.5 hours, ¥600 / $5.50)
Total Estimated Costs: ¥1000 / $9.50

Useful tips

If you have more time, you can visit other destinations, including Shinjuku Gyoen National Park, Gion District, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. On the other hand, if you have less time, cut off Osaka and take a bullet train to Kyoto. Remember to plan your travel and accommodations ahead of time to save money with discounts and package deals. Opt for a hostel or capsule hotel to save money on accommodations