How many days do you need in Japan?

This itinerary covers 7 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 7 days trip to Japan. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Discovering Japan: A 7-Day Itinerary

Viewed by 180 travelers

Day 1: City Exploration

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Visit Tsukiji Fish Market

Start your day with a visit to the lively Tsukiji Fish Market, where you can witness the vibrant auction and enjoy some of the freshest sushi for breakfast.

¥1000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Asakusa Senso-ji Temple

Head to Asakusa and explore the historic Senso-ji Temple, an iconic symbol of Tokyo's rich cultural heritage and spirituality.

Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shibuya Crossing

Experience the famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world, and soak in the electric atmosphere of this bustling district.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Gonpachi

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at Gonpachi, a restaurant famed for its stylish ambiance and delicious traditional Japanese cuisine.

¥4000, 2 hours

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Day 2: Scenic Retreat

Hakone, Japan

9:00AM

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Spend the morning at the Hakone Open-Air Museum, surrounded by stunning natural beauty and featuring an impressive collection of sculptures and art installations.

¥1600, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lake Ashi Boat Cruise

Embark on a peaceful boat cruise across Lake Ashi, admiring the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and the serene landscapes of Hakone.

¥1000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Kaiseki Dinner at Ryokan

Experience a traditional Japanese kaiseki dinner at a charming ryokan, complete with meticulously prepared seasonal dishes and warm hospitality.

¥8000, 2 hours

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Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Begin your day at the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its mesmerising thousand vermillion torii gates and picturesque walking trails.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Explore the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where you can stroll through a mesmerising pathway of soaring bamboo stalks and experience the tranquility of the natural surroundings.

Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kinkaku-ji Temple

Visit the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, and admire its awe-inspiring architecture set amidst meticulously manicured gardens.

¥400, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Gion District

Enjoy a delightful dinner at the atmospheric Gion district, renowned for its historic tea houses and the chance to spot geisha in their elegant traditional attire.

¥3500, 2 hours

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Day 4: Urban Excursion

Osaka, Japan

9:00AM

Osaka Castle

Begin your day with a visit to the majestic Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city's rich history and an architectural marvel surrounded by beautiful gardens and moats.

¥600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Dotonbori District

Experience the vibrant energy of the Dotonbori district, known for its neon-lit streets, bustling restaurants, and the iconic Glico Running Man sign.

Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shitenno-ji Temple

Explore the ancient Shitenno-ji Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, and immerse yourself in the serenity of this historic religious site.

¥300, 1 hour

7:00PM

Street Food at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Indulge in a delightful array of local street food at the bustling Kuromon Ichiba Market, where you can savour fresh seafood, takoyaki, and other Osaka delicacies.

¥2500, 2 hours

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Day 5: Historical Wonders

Nara, Japan

9:00AM

Todai-ji Temple and Great Buddha

Visit the majestic Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue and surrounded by serene parkland inhabited by friendly wild deer, offering a glimpse into Japan's ancient cultural heritage.

¥1000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Explore the ethereal atmosphere of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its hundreds of lanterns illuminating the sacred pathways and ancient beauty.

¥500, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Authentic Kaiseki Dinner at Nara Machiya

Savour an authentic kaiseki dinner at a traditional Nara machiya, where you can relish the exquisite flavours of seasonal ingredients presented in an artful culinary display.

¥7000, 2 hours

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Day 6: Peace and Remembrance

Hiroshima, Japan

9:00AM

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Spend the day at the poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, paying homage to the victims of the atomic bombing and reflecting on the resilient spirit of the city.

Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Hiroshima Castle

Visit the historic Hiroshima Castle, known for its striking architecture and captivating exhibitions that offer insights into the city's feudal past.

¥370, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Okonomiyaki Dinner at Okonomimura

Delight in the savoury flavours of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Okonomimura, a bustling multi-storey building dedicated to this beloved local dish.

¥1500, 2 hours

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Day 7: Island Serenity

Miyajima, Japan

9:00AM

Itsukushima Shrine

Explore the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, known for its picturesque floating torii gate and the tranquil beauty of its seaside location, creating a postcard-perfect backdrop.

¥300, 2 hours

12:00PM

Mount Misen Hike

Embark on a scenic hike up Mount Misen, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and immerse yourself in the lush nature of Miyajima Island.

Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Seafood Feast at Miyajima

Indulge in a delightful seafood feast at one of the charming local eateries on Miyajima Island, savouring the freshest catches and seasonal specialties.

¥4500, 2 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.