12-Day Budget-Friendly Japan Itinerary: Okinawa, Osaka, Kyoto & Tokyo

Day 1: Exploring Okinawa

Okinawa, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Hanahana

Start your day with a healthy Okinawan breakfast of brown rice, local pickles, and miso soup.
Located in Naha, easily reachable from most hotels.
JPY900, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shuri Castle

Explore the historic Shuri Castle, the former royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Take a direct public bus or taxi, about 20 minutes from central Naha.
JPY820, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Makishi Public Market

Enjoy a lively atmosphere and have lunch at Makishi Public Market, sampling fresh seafood and local delicacies.
Return to Naha center by bus or a short walk.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Kokusai Street

Wander down Kokusai Street, a vibrant thoroughfare filled with shops, cafés, and the essence of Okinawan culture.
A short walking distance from the market.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Naminoue Beach

Unwind at Naminoue Beach, conveniently located near Naha, where you can soak up the sunshine and sea.
A quick bus ride or 15-minute taxi drive from Kokusai Street.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Goya Champuru House

Savor a traditional Okinawan meal at Goya Champuru House, renowned for its stir-fry dishes featuring the famous goya.
Return to Naha and locate the restaurant near the city center.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Okinawa Adventures

Okinawa, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at A&W

Enjoy a unique breakfast at the iconic American-style fast food chain famous in Okinawa.
Located conveniently in Naha.
JPY800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Discover one of the largest aquariums in the world, filled with incredible marine life native to the region.
Take a bus or drive to the aquarium, about 90 minutes from Naha.
JPY1850, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ocean Expo Park

Enjoy lunch at one of the onsite cafes within Ocean Expo Park, known for its scenic ocean views.
Onsite at the aquarium.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Cape Manzamo

Take a trip to Cape Manzamo, known for its stunning cliff views and elephant-shaped rock formations.
A 30-minute bus ride from the aquarium.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Beach Time at Moon Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon at Moon Beach, perfect for swimming and enjoying the sunset.
Approximately 30 minutes by bus from Cape Manzamo.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Blue Seal Ice Cream

Ending the day on a sweet note, try the iconic ice cream brand famous throughout Okinawa.
Return to Naha, with multiple locations available.
JPY500, 1 hour
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Day 3: Travel to Osaka

Okinawa to Osaka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast at your hotel before checking out and heading to the airport.
Pack up and check out.
Free with hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Fly to Osaka

Catch your budget flight to Osaka through a low-cost carrier like Peach Aviation.
Naha Airport to Kansai International Airport.
JPY7500, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Transfer to Hotel in Osaka

Arrive in Osaka and take a comfortable train or bus to your 3-star hotel.
Kansai Airport to Osaka city center.
JPY1500, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Dotonbori

Grab lunch at Dotonbori, famous for its street food, including takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
Walking distance from your hotel.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore the iconic Osaka Castle and its surrounding park, loaded with history and beautiful views.
Use the subway for a short ride.
JPY600, 2 hours

4:30PM

Shop at Shinsaibashi

Experience shopping like a local, from luxury brands to quirky shops in Shinsaibashi.
A simple subway ride from Osaka Castle.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Delight your taste buds with Osaka's famous kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) at a local favorite restaurant.
Easily accessible by foot from Shinsaibashi.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Evening River Cruise

End the day with a relaxing river cruise along the Dotonbori River, taking in the vibrant city lights.
Walk back to Dotonbori to board the cruise.
JPY1800, 1 hour
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Day 4: Osaka Sightseeing

Osaka, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for another day of exploration.
At your hotel.
Free with hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Universal Studios Japan

Spend the day at Universal Studios Japan, experiencing thrilling rides and attractions.
Catch a direct train from Osaka city center.
JPY8200, 6 hours

4:30PM

Late Lunch at Universal Studios

Fuel up with a meal at one of the many dining options inside the park.
Onsite at the park.
JPY2000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Return to Hotel

Make your way back to your hotel to freshen up after an exciting day.
Direct train back to Osaka city center.
JPY600, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Chibo Okonomiyaki

Experience making your own okonomiyaki at Chibo while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Short walk from your hotel.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Osaka to Kyoto

Osaka to Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading out.
At your hotel.
Free with hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Leave for Kyoto

Take a short train ride to the historic city of Kyoto.
Board the train from Osaka Station directly to Kyoto Station.
JPY400, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Start your Kyoto visit with the stunning Golden Pavilion, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Take a bus from Kyoto Station to Kinkaku-ji.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kinkaku-ji Café

Lunch at the café near the Golden Pavilion, enjoying views of the temple.
Onsite at Kinkaku-ji.
JPY1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Visit the captivating Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene walking path through towering bamboo.
Take a train from Kinkaku-ji to Arashiyama Station.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore the beautiful Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adjacent to the bamboo grove.
Short walk from the bamboo grove.
JPY500, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner in Gion

End your day with dinner in the historic Gion district, known for its traditional architecture and geisha culture.
Head back to central Kyoto by train.
JPY2000, 2 hours

7:30PM

Explore Gion Nightlife

Stroll the charming streets of Gion, capturing the historical essence of Kyoto.
On foot in Gion.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 6: Kyoto Culture

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a convenient breakfast at your hotel to prepare for a cultural day.
At your hotel.
Free with hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its thousands of vermillion torii gates.
Take the train from Kyoto Station to Inari Station.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Yudofu Sagano

Savor a traditional Kyoto-style meal featuring yudofu (tofu hot pot) nearby Fushimi Inari.
Short walk from the shrine.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Nijo Castle

Wander through the historical grounds of Nijo Castle, known for its stunning gardens and nightingale floors.
Return to Kyoto Station and take a bus.
JPY1000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Philosopher's Path

Walk along the scenic Philosopher's Path lined with cherry trees and shop from local vendors.
Take a bus to the start of the path.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Omen

Feast on delicious udon noodles at Omen, a well-loved restaurant in Kyoto.
Nearby the Philosopher's Path.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Traditional Tea Ceremony

Experience a traditional tea ceremony, immersing yourself in the Japanese cultural experience.
Multiple local shops offer this experience.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Kyoto to Tokyo

Kyoto to Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before preparing to travel.
At your hotel.
Free with hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Tokyo via Shinkansen

Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Tokyo for an efficient trip.
Board the train from Kyoto Station.
JPY14000 (consider JR Pass), 2 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at Hotel in Tokyo

Arrive in Tokyo and check into your affordable accommodation.
Transfer from Tokyo Station to your hotel.
Free (already accounted for), 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Tsukiji Outer Market

Enjoy a variety of fresh seafood and street food at Tsukiji, a must-visit culinary destination.
Head to Tsukiji via subway.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple

Explore the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa and its vibrant shopping streets.
Take the subway to Asakusa Station.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Akihabara District

Wander through Akihabara, the electronics and otaku culture center of Tokyo.
A short train ride from Asakusa.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ichiran Ramen

Satisfy your cravings with a unique ramen dining experience at Ichiran Ramen.
In Akihabara district.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Shibuya Crossing Experience

Cap off the day by experiencing the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, a must-see in Tokyo.
Short train ride from Akihabara.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 8: Tokyo Exploration

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for another exciting day with breakfast at your hotel.
At your hotel.
Free with hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Ueno Park

Visit Ueno Park, home to museums, a zoo, and beautiful cherry blossoms.
Take a short train ride to Ueno Station.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ameyoko Market

Enjoy a variety of Japanese street foods at Ameyoko Market near Ueno Park.
Walk from Ueno Park to Ameyoko.
JPY1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Tokyo Skytree

Take in panoramic views of the city from the observation deck of Tokyo Skytree.
Subway ride to Tokyo Skytree Station.
JPY2100, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Odaiba Island

Spend the afternoon at Odaiba, enjoying shopping, entertainment, and great views of Tokyo Bay.
Train from Tokyo Skytree to Odaiba.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at DiverCity Plaza

Have dinner at DiverCity Plaza featuring a variety of food options.
In Odaiba, a short walk from the shopping complex.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Gundam Statue Experience

Witness the impressive Gundam statue at DiverCity Plaza, a wonderful photo opportunity.
Near your dinner spot.
Free, 30 minutes
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Day 9: Tokyo Highlights

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel to kick off another day of exploration.
At your hotel.
Free with hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Meiji Shrine

Discover the serene Meiji Shrine, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
Take the subway to Harajuku Station.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Harajuku

Stroll through Harajuku, known for its fashion scene and quirky shops.
Walk from Meiji Shrine.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Omotesando

Enjoy lunch in Omotesando with a variety of trendy cafes and restaurants.
Walk to Omotesando.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Tsukiji Outer Market

Return for a culinary experience at Tsukiji Outer Market, sampling various seafood cuisines.
Subway to Tsukiji.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Marunouchi and Tokyo Tower

Head to Marunouchi for stunning cityscapes and visit Tokyo Tower for incredible views.
Take a subway to Tokyo Tower.
JPY1800, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sushizanmai

Savor a delightful sushi dinner at Sushizanmai, a highly-rated sushi chain.
Near Tsukiji Outer Market.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Tokyo Discovery

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a fulfilling breakfast at your hotel.
At your hotel.
Free with hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Imperial Palace

Explore the beautiful gardens and outer grounds of the Imperial Palace.
Take a subway to Tokyo Station.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Shopping at Ginza

Experience upscale shopping in Ginza, filled with various boutiques.
Walk from the Imperial Palace to Ginza.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ginza

Choose from one of the many fantastic dining options available in Ginza.
On foot.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Roppongi Hills

Visit Roppongi Hills, featuring art museums, shops, and an observation deck with panoramic views.
Take the subway to Roppongi.
JPY1800, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Gonpachi

Enjoy a flavorful dinner at Gonpachi, known as the inspiration for the restaurant scene in Kill Bill.
A short walk from Roppongi Hills.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Final Day in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have breakfast at your hotel for a final full day in Tokyo.
At your hotel.
Free with hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Shinjuku Gyoen Park

Relax in the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen Park, a beautiful oasis in the city.
Take the train to Shinjuku Station.
JPY500, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Shinjuku

Enjoy lunch at one of Shinjuku's many iconic restaurants.
On foot.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Experience panoramic views of Tokyo for free at the observation deck of the building.
A short walk from your lunch spot.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Last-Minute Shopping in Shinjuku

Use this time to shop for last-minute souvenirs and gifts.
In the Shinjuku area.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Kichiri

Conclude your trip with a memorable dinner at Kichiri, enjoying a selection of Japanese dishes.
Within walking distance.
JPY3000, 2 hours
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Day 12: Departure from Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have your final breakfast at the hotel before checking out.
At your hotel.
Free with hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Check-out and Head to Airport

Check out from your hotel and head to Narita or Haneda Airport for your departure.
Plan your transportation in advance.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours
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