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.

Ultimate 7-Day Japan Itinerary

Day 1: Tokyo Exploration

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tsukiji Fish Market

Start your day with fresh sushi and sashimi at the famous Tsukiji Fish Market, the largest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world.

£15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Explore the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, one of Tokyo's oldest and most significant Buddhist temples.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ramen Street in Tokyo Station

Indulge in a variety of delicious ramen noodles at Ramen Street, a popular food alley located within Tokyo Station.

£10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Shibuya Crossing

Experience the iconic Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world, surrounded by vibrant shopping and entertainment options.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Robot Restaurant

End your day with a quirky and entertaining dinner experience at the Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku, known for its futuristic shows and vibrant atmosphere.

£40, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 2: Tokyo Modern & Traditional

Tokyo, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Akihabara

Enjoy a unique breakfast experience in Akihabara, known as the electric town and a hub for anime, manga, and gaming culture.

£10, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Meiji Shrine

Immerse yourself in nature and tradition at Meiji Shrine, a peaceful Shinto shrine located in the heart of bustling Tokyo.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Harajuku Takeshita Street

Try trendy street food and unique snacks along Harajuku's famous Takeshita Street, a vibrant hub of youth culture and fashion.

£15, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Odaiba

Discover the futuristic island of Odaiba, home to digital art museums, shopping centres, and beautiful waterfront views.

Free, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at a Izakaya

Experience traditional Japanese dining at an Izakaya, a cosy pub-like eatery serving various small plates and drinks.

£30, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 3: Tokyo Cultural Immersion

Tokyo, Japan

10:00AM

Visit the Ghibli Museum

Explore the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli at the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, showcasing the animation and art of renowned filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki.

£25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Tea House in Ueno Park

Enjoy a traditional Japanese meal at a charming tea house in Ueno Park, a serene oasis in the heart of bustling Tokyo.

£20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Stroll through the peaceful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a beautifully landscaped park offering a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

£5, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Yakitori Restaurant

Indulge in delicious skewers of grilled chicken and other tasty bites at a traditional Yakitori restaurant in Tokyo.

£25, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 4: Kyoto Temples & Gardens

Kyoto, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Nishiki Market

Start your day with a culinary adventure at Nishiki Market, a bustling food market filled with fresh seafood, snacks, and local delicacies.

£15, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at the stunning Golden Pavilion, a Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, set amidst beautiful gardens and reflecting ponds.

£10, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Traditional Kyoto Ryokan

Experience a traditional Japanese meal at a Kyoto Ryokan, a traditional inn offering seasonal dishes in a serene tatami mat setting.

£40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene forest of bamboo that creates a magical atmosphere.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine at one of the traditional restaurants along Pontocho Alley, a narrow street lined with historic buildings and a great place for a memorable dinner experience.

£35, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Kyoto

Day 5: Kyoto Cultural Heritage

Kyoto, Japan

10:00AM

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, known for its thousands of vermillion torii gates leading to the sacred Mount Inari.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Enjoy a variety of street food and Kyoto specialities at Nishiki Market, a culinary paradise for food enthusiasts.

£20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Gion District

Stroll through the historic Gion District, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, geisha culture, and quaint tea houses.

Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Kaiseki Restaurant

Indulge in a multi-course kaiseki dinner, a traditional Japanese dining experience that highlights seasonal and regional ingredients.

£50, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Kyoto

Day 6: Osaka City Exploration

Osaka, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Start your day with a feast of fresh seafood and local delicacies at Kuromon Ichiba Market, a bustling food market in Osaka.

£20, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore the historic Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most famous landmarks, known for its impressive architecture and beautiful surrounding gardens.

£8, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Indulge in Osaka's famous street food and specialities at Dotonbori, a lively entertainment district with a vibrant food scene.

£15, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Shinsekai District

Discover the retro charm of Shinsekai District, known for its nostalgic vibes, unique street food, and the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower.

Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Takoyaki Stand

Try Osaka's famous takoyaki (octopus balls) at a local stand in Dotonbori, a must-try street food delicacy.

£10, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Osaka

Day 7: Osaka Modern & Traditional

Osaka, Japan

10:00AM

Visit Shitenno-ji Temple

Explore the ancient Shitenno-ji Temple, one of Japan's oldest Buddhist temples and a peaceful oasis in the bustling city of Osaka.

£5, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Kushikatsu Restaurant

Experience the local favourite kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) at a traditional restaurant in Shinsekai, a popular dish in Osaka.

£20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Denden Town

Discover the electronics and otaku paradise of Denden Town, a vibrant district in Nipponbashi known for its anime, games, and gadgets.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Kappo Cuisine Restaurant

Enjoy a refined dining experience with Kappo cuisine, a traditional Japanese dining style that focuses on seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation.

£60, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Osaka

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Ultimate 7-Day Japan Itinerary

Day 1: Tokyo Exploration

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Tokyo Modern & Traditional

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

4:00PM

8:00PM

Day 3: Tokyo Cultural Immersion

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Kyoto Temples & Gardens

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Kyoto Cultural Heritage

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Osaka City Exploration

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 7: Osaka Modern & Traditional

10:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

6:00PM

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