How many days do you need in japan?

This itinerary covers 6 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 6 days trip to japan. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Discovering Japan: A 6-Day Adventure

Day 1: Tokyo Exploration

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Tsukiji Fish Market

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Tsukiji Fish Market, known for its bustling atmosphere and fresh seafood. Enjoy a sushi breakfast at one of the local stalls.

Varies, 2 hours

11:00AM

Senso-ji Temple

Take a short walk to Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most significant temple. Explore the vibrant Nakamise Shopping Street leading up to the temple.

Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Asakusa

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at one of the charming restaurants in Asakusa, offering a variety of local dishes.

Varies, 1 hour

3:00PM

Meiji Shrine

Visit the tranquil Meiji Shrine, nestled in the heart of bustling Tokyo. Take a serene stroll through the forested grounds and learn about Shinto traditions.

Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Shibuya

Experience the vibrant energy of Shibuya and enjoy dinner at one of the many izakayas or trendy eateries in the area.

Varies, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 2: Tokyo Modern & Traditional

Tokyo, Japan

9:00AM

TeamLab Borderless

Immerse yourself in the digital art world at TeamLab Borderless, an otherworldly interactive art museum showcasing stunning light displays and projections.

Approx. $30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Akihabara

Indulge in a unique themed café experience or enjoy a bento box lunch at one of the local eateries in the electronic and anime district of Akihabara.

Varies, 1 hour

2:00PM

Imperial Palace Gardens

Discover the serene beauty of the Imperial Palace East Gardens, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.

Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Sumo Wrestling Match (seasonal)

If in season, witness the ancient sport of sumo wrestling at a local stadium, an exhilarating and cultural experience.

Approx. $50, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner in Roppongi

Enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the upscale restaurants in Roppongi, known for its international dining scene and vibrant nightlife.

Varies, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 3: Hakone Adventure

Hakone, Japan

9:00AM

Hakone Ropeway

Embark on a breathtaking journey on the Hakone Ropeway, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Ashi.

Approx. $15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch with Views

Enjoy a delightful lunch with scenic views of Mount Fuji at one of the restaurants near Lake Ashi.

Varies, 1 hour

2:00PM

Pirate Ship Cruise

Experience a unique cruise on a pirate ship across Lake Ashi, with Mount Fuji providing a stunning backdrop.

Approx. $10, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Onsen Relaxation

Unwind in a traditional onsen (hot spring) and soak in the healing waters, surrounded by the natural beauty of Hakone.

Approx. $20, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ryokan

Experience a kaiseki dinner at a traditional ryokan, savoring a multi-course meal featuring seasonal and local ingredients.

Included in ryokan stay, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Hakone

Day 4: Kyoto Serenity & Culture

Kyoto, Japan

9:00AM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Begin your day with a visit to the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene forest of towering bamboo stalks.

Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Sagano Scenic Railway

Embark on a charming train journey on the Sagano Scenic Railway, offering picturesque views of the Hozugawa River and rural landscapes.

Approx. $10, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch in Gion

Delight in a traditional Kyoto-style lunch in the historic Gion district, known for its preserved machiya houses and geisha culture.

Varies, 1 hour

3:30PM

Kinkaku-ji Temple

Marvel at the stunning golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji Temple, set amidst tranquil gardens and reflecting in the surrounding pond.

Approx. $5, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner in Pontocho

Experience the atmospheric narrow streets of Pontocho and enjoy a memorable dinner at a traditional Kyoto restaurant, offering local delicacies.

Varies, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Kyoto

Day 5: Kyoto Temples & Gardens

Kyoto, Japan

10:00AM

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates winding through the forested hillside.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch in Higashiyama

Indulge in a delightful lunch at one of the charming eateries in the historic Higashiyama district, offering traditional Kyoto cuisine.

Varies, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched on a hillside and offering breathtaking views of Kyoto city from its wooden veranda.

Approx. $5, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Gion District Exploration

Stroll through the atmospheric streets of Gion, known for its historic charm, teahouses, and the possibility of spotting geisha and maiko.

Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Nishiki Market

Savor a variety of delectable street foods and local specialties at Nishiki Market, a bustling culinary hub in the heart of Kyoto.

Varies, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Kyoto

Day 6: Osaka Highlights

Osaka, Japan

9:00AM

Osaka Castle

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Osaka Castle, an impressive symbol of the city's rich history and heritage.

Approx. $8, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Satisfy your taste buds with a vibrant lunch at Dotonbori, known for its energetic atmosphere and diverse selection of street food and local delicacies.

Varies, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Embark on a shopping adventure at the lively Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade, offering a wide range of shops, boutiques, and entertainment options.

Varies, 2 hours

5:00PM

Kuromon Ichiba Market

Explore the bustling Kuromon Ichiba Market, a paradise for food lovers with its fresh produce, seafood, and street food stalls.

Varies, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Umeda Sky Building

Experience a memorable dinner at one of the restaurants in the Umeda Sky Building, offering panoramic views of the city skyline.

Varies, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Osaka

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Discovering Japan: A 6-Day Adventure

Day 1: Tokyo Exploration

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Tokyo Modern & Traditional

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 3: Hakone Adventure

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:30PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Kyoto Serenity & Culture

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:30PM

3:30PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Kyoto Temples & Gardens

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

8:00PM

Day 6: Osaka Highlights

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

More About japan

Plan Your japan Trip