How many days do you need in Tokyo and Kyoto?

This itinerary covers 7 days in Tokyo and Kyoto, 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 Tokyo and Kyoto?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to Tokyo and Kyoto. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Family Adventure in Tokyo and Kyoto: A 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Start your day with fresh sushi and seafood at Tsukiji Outer Market, a great place to enjoy authentic Japanese breakfast.

JPY 2,000, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Senso-ji Temple

Explore the iconic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, a historic site that offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture.

Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Asakusa Okonomiyaki

Savor savory pancakes at a well-known Okonomiyaki restaurant in the Asakusa area.

JPY 3,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Ueno Park

Discover the beautiful Ueno Park, filled with museums, a zoo, and cherry blossoms for a pleasant afternoon stroll.

Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Enjoy a traditional Japanese dining experience with a variety of izakaya-style dishes in this iconic restaurant.

JPY 5,000, 2 hours

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Day 2: Cultural Day in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Great Burger

Enjoy a delicious American-style breakfast like pancakes or burgers to fuel your busy day ahead.

JPY 2,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Meiji Shrine

Visit the serene Meiji Shrine, surrounded by beautiful gardens and a tranquil atmosphere.

Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll Through Harajuku

Experience the vibrant fashion and youth culture of Harajuku, exploring quirky shops and trendy cafes.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kawaii Monster Cafe

Indulge in a whimsical dining experience with colorful dishes at the Kawaii Monster Cafe, sure to delight both kids and adults.

JPY 3,500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Tokyo Tower

Take in panoramic views of the city from the observation deck of the iconic Tokyo Tower.

JPY 1,200, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Narisawa

Enjoy a unique and artistic dining experience at Narisawa, known for its sustainable dishes and seasonal ingredients.

JPY 15,000, 2 hours

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Day 3: Travel to Kyoto

Tokyo to Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a nutritious breakfast at your hotel before heading to Kyoto.

Included with hotel., 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Kyoto via Shinkansen

Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto, enjoying a smooth ride through picturesque landscapes.

JPY 14,000, 2 hours

11:30AM

Arrive and check-in to Hotel

Settle into your hotel and get refreshed for your Kyoto adventure ahead.

JPY 1,500, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Explore Nishiki Market, tasting a variety of local delights and street food as you wander through the vibrant aisles.

JPY 3,500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the stunning Golden Pavilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site set amidst beautiful gardens reflecting in the pond.

JPY 400, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene pathway that creates a magical atmosphere.

JPY 500, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Experience traditional Kyoto cuisine in a delightful setting with a view of the river.

JPY 5,500, 1.5 hours

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Day 4: Cultural Exploration in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before a day of exploring.

Included with hotel., 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha

Hike through the famous vermillion torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha, an essential experience in Kyoto.

Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Inari Sushi Souvenir

Taste the traditional Inari sushi filled with sweet rice, perfect for lunch right by the shrine.

JPY 2,500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Nijo Castle

Tour the historic Nijo Castle, a notable landmark showcasing the grandeur of the shogunate era.

JPY 1,000, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Gion District

Stroll through the Gion District, soaking in the traditional architecture and possibly spotting a Geisha.

Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at this charming restaurant known for its local Kyoto cuisine and friendly atmosphere.

JPY 4,000, 1.5 hours

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Day 5: Adventure Day in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Indulge in another delightful breakfast at your hotel to prepare for an exciting day.

Included with hotel., 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Kyoto Aquarium

Discover fascinating marine life and engage with interactive exhibits at the Kyoto Aquarium, great for family fun.

JPY 2,200, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Toei Kyoto Studio Park

Dive into the world of samurai and ninjas in this themed park featuring live shows and attractions.

JPY 3,200, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Toei Kyoto Studio Park Restaurant

Eat lunch at the on-site restaurant offering various Japanese dishes, perfect for a family meal.

JPY 2,500, 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore Philosopher's Path

Take a picturesque walk along the Philosopher's Path, renowned for its beautiful cherry trees and surrounding gardens.

Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Keisuke Matsushima

Wrap up your day with a fine dining experience featuring elegant French-Japanese fusion cuisine.

JPY 10,000, 2 hours

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Day 6: Kyoto Day Trip

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your hotel on your last full day in Kyoto.

Included with hotel., 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Arashiyama Monkey Park

Hike up to the Arashiyama Monkey Park for an unforgettable encounter with Japanese macaques in their natural habitat.

JPY 600, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Arashiyama Kitchen

Refresh with a light lunch at the cozy kitchen offering local dishes and seasonal ingredients.

JPY 1,800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore the renowned Tenryu-ji Temple and its beautiful gardens where you can appreciate the art of Zen.

JPY 1,000, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Hoshinoya Kyoto

Take a break at the luxury resort of Hoshinoya, enjoying the serene riverside views.

JPY 2,500, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Kikunoi

Experience a memorable kaiseki meal at Kikunoi, known for its exquisite presentation and seasonal ingredients.

JPY 15,000, 2 hours

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Day 7: Return to Tokyo

Kyoto to Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy one last breakfast at your hotel before heading back to Tokyo.

Included with hotel., 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Tokyo via Shinkansen

Board the Shinkansen back to Tokyo, with the chance to admire the last views of the countryside.

JPY 14,000, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Hotel New Otani

Enjoy a luxurious lunch at the Hotel New Otani, perfect for a satisfying end to your journey.

JPY 5,000, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Free Time for Last-Minute Shopping

Use your free time to shop for souvenirs in the iconic shopping areas of Ginza or Shibuya.

Free (shopping expenses vary), 3 hours

4:30PM

Departure from Tokyo

Head to the airport for your flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories.

JPY 3,000, 1.5 hours

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Step 1 Outline Preview:

Family Adventure in Tokyo and Kyoto: A 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Tokyo

8:00AM

10:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

Day 2: Cultural Day in Tokyo

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

Day 3: Travel to Kyoto

8:00AM

9:00AM

11:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:30PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Cultural Exploration in Kyoto

8:00AM

9:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:30PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Adventure Day in Kyoto

8:00AM

9:00AM

11:30AM

3:00PM

4:30PM

6:30PM

Day 6: Kyoto Day Trip

8:00AM

9:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:30PM

6:30PM

Day 7: Return to Tokyo

8:00AM

9:00AM

11:30AM

1:00PM

4:30PM

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