How many days do you need in Japan?

This itinerary covers 5 days in Japan, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Japan?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to Japan. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Adventure in Japan

Viewed by 91 travelers

Day 1: Urban Exploration

Tokyo, Japan on July 21, 2024

8:00AM

Senso-ji Temple

Visit the iconic Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest temple, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the temple grounds.

Free, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Ueno Park

Enjoy a picnic in Ueno Park while admiring the lush greenery and visiting the Ueno Zoo, home to giant pandas.

Free, 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tsukiji Fish Market

Indulge in fresh and affordable seafood at the bustling Tsukiji Fish Market, a heaven for food enthusiasts.

£10-£15, 1-2 hours

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Day 2: Historical Wonders

Kyoto, Japan on July 22, 2024

9:00AM

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Embark on a captivating walk through the thousands of iconic torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, creating a picturesque sight.

Free, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Relish a wide array of delectable street food and local delicacies at Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto's kitchen.

£5-£10, 1-2 hours

4:00PM

Kinkaku-ji Temple

Marvel at the breathtaking Golden Pavilion - Kinkaku-ji Temple, set amidst stunning gardens and a serene pond.

£5, 1-1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Experience a vibrant evening at Pontocho Alley, famed for its traditional tea houses, charming eateries, and cultural performances.

£10-£20, 2-3 hours

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Day 3: Modern Marvels

Osaka, Japan on July 23, 2024

10:00AM

Osaka Castle

Explore the historic Osaka Castle, surrounded by beautiful gardens and offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

£7, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Savour the vibrant energy of Dotonbori while sampling mouth-watering street food and regional specialities along the bustling canal.

£5-£10, 1-2 hours

4:00PM

Umeda Sky Building

Ascend the futuristic Umeda Sky Building for a bird's eye view of Osaka and the chance to walk across the awe-inspiring Floating Garden Observatory.

£8, 1-1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Delight in an array of fresh seafood, grilled skewers, and diverse food vendors at Kuromon Ichiba Market, a bustling food market loved by locals and visitors alike.

£10-£15, 1-2 hours

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Day 4: Nature and Serenity

Nara, Japan on July 24, 2024

9:00AM

Nara Park

Stroll through Nara Park and encounter the free-roaming friendly deer, visit the stunning Todai-ji Temple, and admire the grand bronze Buddha statue.

Free, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sanjo-ohashi

Enjoy a relaxing riverside lunch at Sanjo-ohashi, soaking in the scenic views of the river and historic bridges.

£8-£12, 1-2 hours

4:00PM

Isuien Garden

Unwind amidst the lush greenery and tranquil ponds of Isuien Garden, embodying the essence of a traditional Japanese garden.

£4, 1-1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Naramachi

Immerse in the charming ambience of Naramachi, known for its quaint streets lined with traditional machiya houses and local eateries offering authentic Japanese cuisine.

£10-£15, 2-3 hours

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Day 5: Reflective Journey

Hiroshima, Japan on July 25, 2024

9:00AM

Peace Memorial Park

Pay homage at the Peace Memorial Park, visit the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, and walk through the moving exhibits at the Peace Memorial Museum.

Free, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Okonomimura

Indulge in the savoury delights of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Okonomimura, home to several small okonomiyaki restaurants offering a unique culinary experience.

£8-£12, 1-2 hours

4:00PM

Shukkeien Garden

Find tranquillity in the idyllic landscapes of Shukkeien Garden, famed for its serene ponds, traditional teahouses, and lush foliage.

£5, 1-1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Nagarekawa District

Discover the vibrant food scene in Nagarekawa District, renowned for its local izakayas, lively bars, and diverse dining options, perfect for a night of culinary exploration on a budget.

£10-£20, 2-3 hours

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When are you going?

Add your start date and we'll check in at two weeks out, one week out, and the day before — bookings, packing, and a day-one brief. Reply to any of them if plans change.