How many days do you need in Japan?

This itinerary covers 8 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 8 days trip to Japan. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

9-Day Family Friendly Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Japan with Universal Studios Experience

Day 1: Explore Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Kick off your adventure with fresh sushi and street food at the Tsukiji Outer Market, a fantastic introduction to the diverse culinary world of Japan.

JPY1000, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Ueno Park

Stroll through Ueno Park, where you can enjoy lush greenery and maybe even spot some wildlife.

JPY0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Ameyoko Market

Savor delightful street food options such as yakitori and sweet snacks at Ameyoko Market.

JPY800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Akihabara

Dive deep into Akihabara's vibrant streets filled with anime shops, electronics stores, and unique maid cafes.

JPY0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Enjoy an Evening in Shinjuku

Wander the exciting streets of Shinjuku, taking in the neon lights and vibrant atmosphere, ideal for equal parts adventure and leisure.

JPY0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Omoide Yokocho

Conclude your first day with delicious grilled skewers and other Japanese delicacies in this historic alley.

JPY1200, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at FamilyMart

Grab a quick and inexpensive breakfast from a local convenience store—perfect before a day of exploration.

JPY600, 30 mins

9:00AM

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Experience the spiritual awakening at Senso-ji Temple, showcasing stunning architecture and following it up with shopping at Nakamise Street for local snacks and souvenirs.

JPY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Ramen Shop

Try a hearty bowl of ramen at a cozy nearby restaurant popular among tourists and locals alike.

JPY900, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Tokyo Skytree

Ascend the Tokyo Skytree for breathtaking views of the metropolis, where even the shyest of travelers can let their eyes roam freely.

JPY2100 per adult, kids discounts available, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Sumida Aquarium

Take an educational detour into the marine world at the fascinating Sumida Aquarium, sure to delight every family member.

JPY2000 per adult, kids discounts available, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sushiro

Enjoy a fun family-friendly conveyor belt sushi experience at Sushiro where kids and adults alike can pick what they like.

JPY3000, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Tokyo

Day 3: Universal Studios Adventure

Osaka, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel or Local Café

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation or at a local café to fuel up for the day ahead.

JPY800, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Universal Studios Osaka

Catch the train early morning to Universal City Station and maximize your time at the park.

JPY4000 with Japan Rail Pass, 2 hours

10:30AM

Enter Universal Studios Osaka

Spend the entire day enjoying thrilling rides, immersive shows, and a myriad of attractions at Universal Studios, an unforgettable experience for the family.

JPY8200 per adult, kids discounts available, 5 hours

4:00PM

Late Lunch inside the Park

Grab lunch within the park to fuel up for more adventures, whether you go for themed dining or classic fast food.

JPY2500, 1 hour

5:00PM

Continue Exploring Universal Studios

Continue enjoying rides and attractions, ensuring the family has a day full of laughter and joy.

JPY0, 4 hours

9:00PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Cap off your day with a delightful meal at a nearby izakaya, where you can feast on Japanese dishes.

JPY1500, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Osaka

Day 4: Day in Osaka

Osaka, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day right with breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby bakery to energize for exploration.

JPY600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Osaka Castle

Tour the historical Osaka Castle, learning about its significance while enjoying scenic views from the top.

JPY600, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Dive into street food heaven at Dotonbori, famous for local delicacies such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki.

JPY1200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Continue Exploring Osaka

Enjoy wandering the lively streets, visiting shopping areas, and taking part in local activities.

JPY0, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Enjoy Japanese cuisine at a cozy izakaya popular among locals.

JPY1500, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Osaka

Day 5: Day Trip to Nara

Nara, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast Near Hotel

Grab breakfast at a nearby café or convenience store, perfect for your adventure.

JPY600, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Nara

Take a direct train to Nara, home to friendly deer and historic temples.

JPY700, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Nara Park

Interact with friendly deer at Nara Park; a delightful experience for both kids and adults.

JPY0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Local Café

Enjoy lunch at a café nearby offering local specialties.

JPY1000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Experience the stunning Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue, which leaves everyone in awe.

JPY600, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Osaka

Head back to Osaka for dinner and rest after a great day in Nara.

JPY700, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Local Diner

Finish your day with a hearty meal at a local diner in Osaka, rounding off your adventures.

JPY1500, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Nara

Day 6: Journey to Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation before heading out.

JPY600, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Hiroshima

Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima, known for its peace memorial and history.

JPY9000 with Japan Rail Pass, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Explore the park that commemorates the victims of the atomic bombing, fostering understanding and compassion.

JPY0, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Indulge in Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at a nearby eatery; a must-try when in the region.

JPY1500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Hiroshima Castle

Discover the history at Hiroshima Castle, a symbol of resilience and culture in the city.

JPY600, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Cap off your day with delightful cuisine at a local izakaya that will leave lasting memories.

JPY1800, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Hiroshima

Day 7: Relaxing in Hakone

Hakone, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation before heading to Hakone for some relaxation.

JPY600, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Hakone

Take the train to Hakone, a famous hot spring resort area perfect for unwinding.

JPY4000 with Japan Rail Pass, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Hakone Open Air Museum

Marvel at stunning sculptures against the beautiful backdrop of nature in the open-air museum.

JPY1600 per adult, kids discounts available, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Cafe

Savor lunch at a café near the museum offering fresh local dishes within a relaxing environment.

JPY1200, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Owakudani Valley

Ride the Hakone Ropeway for breathtaking views and taste the famous black eggs cooked in volcanic spring water.

JPY1300, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner in Hakone

Round off your adventure in Hakone with a warm meal at a local teahouse featuring traditional Japanese fare.

JPY2000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Return to Tokyo

Travel back to Tokyo after a refreshing day in Hakone, filled with scenic views and relaxation.

JPY4000, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Hakone

Day 8: Final Day in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast one more time at your accommodation to fuel up for your last day.

JPY600, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Meiji Shrine

Visit the tranquil Meiji Shrine and experience the peaceful forest atmosphere, concluding your Japanese cultural journey.

JPY0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Harajuku

Walk the colorful streets of Harajuku, indulging in unique fashion and local treats.

JPY0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Local Café

Enjoy a casual lunch at a local café for one last taste of Japanese cuisine.

JPY1200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Shibuya

Visit the iconic Shibuya Crossing and browse the shops in the area, soaking in the bustling environment.

JPY0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Tokyo Tower

End your journey with breathtaking views from Tokyo Tower and dinner at a nearby restaurant, giving you a grand finale to your adventure.

JPY3000, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Tokyo

Step 1 Outline Preview:

9-Day Family Friendly Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Japan with Universal Studios Experience

Day 1: Explore Tokyo

8:00AM

10:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:30PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

8:00AM

9:00AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Universal Studios Adventure

7:00AM

8:30AM

10:30AM

4:00PM

5:00PM

9:00PM

Day 4: Day in Osaka

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

Day 5: Day Trip to Nara

8:00AM

9:00AM

10:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

5:30PM

Day 6: Journey to Hiroshima

7:00AM

9:00AM

11:30AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

5:30PM

Day 7: Relaxing in Hakone

8:00AM

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 8: Final Day in Tokyo

8:00AM

9:00AM

10:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:30PM

More About Japan

Plan Your Japan Trip