10-Day Budget-Friendly Journey Through Japan: Explore, Experience, Enjoy

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on November 1, 2025

12:00PM

Check-in at Hostel

Settle in at your budget-friendly accommodation, a popular choice among travelers, located in the heart of Shinjuku.
JPY2500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Ichiran Ramen

Enjoy a bowl of delicious Tonkotsu ramen at this famous spot where you can eat in peace at individual booths.
JPY1200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Shibuya Crossing

Witness the organized chaos of one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Meiji Shrine

A beautiful Shinto shrine nestled in a forested area, perfect for a serene stroll.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Gyukatsu Tokyo

Try gyukatsu, a unique breaded and fried beef cutlet dish; highly praised for its tender meat.
JPY2000, 1 hour

8:00PM

Explore Akihabara

Delve into the world of anime, manga, and electronics at this vibrant district known for its otaku culture.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 2: Tokyo Adventures

Tokyo, Japan on November 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Start your day with fresh seafood or tamagoyaki (savory egg custard) at this bustling market.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo's oldest temple, a must-see for its stunning architecture and shopping street.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Tokyo Skytree Observatory

Get panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest structures in the world.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Uobei Sushi

Experience conveyor belt sushi at this fun and inexpensive restaurant, known for speed and quality.
JPY1000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Ueno Park

Visit museums, stroll through the park, and enjoy the seasonal sights, especially beautiful during fall.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at CoCo Curry

Savor a plate of Japanese curry rice that you can customize to your tastes at this popular chain.
JPY800, 1 hour

8:00PM

Shinjuku Nightlife Experience

Explore the neon-lit streets of Shinjuku, try out an izakaya, or do some late-night shopping.
Free, 2-3 hours
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Day 3: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan on November 3, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Grab a light breakfast at your accommodation before heading out.
Free with stay, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Travel to Nikko

Take a train from Asakusa Station to Nikko, known for its natural beauty and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
JPY4000 (round-trip), 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore this ornate shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, featuring intricate carvings and beautiful grounds.
JPY1300, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Known for its delicious yakitori and ramen at this charming and rustic Japanese eatery.
JPY1500, 1 hour

1:00PM

See Kegon Falls

Marvel at one of Japan's most beautiful waterfalls; the autumn colors are especially breathtaking.
JPY550, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return to Tokyo

Travel back to Tokyo, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Included in transport cost, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ramen Santoka

Dig into rich, flavorful ramen in a cozy environment, recommended by locals.
JPY1200, 1 hour
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Day 4: Kyoto Bound

Kyoto, Japan on November 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Enjoy a simple breakfast at your accommodation before heading out.
Free with stay, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Travel to Kyoto

Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Kyoto, a fast and convenient method.
JPY14000 (one-way), 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Discover a variety of local foods and delicacies in this vibrant market famous for street food.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Witness the stunning golden temple surrounded by beautiful gardens, reflecting on the pond.
JPY400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Take a stroll through this mesmerizing bamboo forest, perfect for breathtaking photos.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Marugame Seimen

Enjoy a bowl of udon noodles at this casual restaurant where you can watch the chefs at work.
JPY900, 1 hour
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Day 5: Cultural Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on November 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Fuel up with breakfast in your hostel before a day full of exploration.
Free with stay, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha

Explore thousands of vermillion torii gates winding up the sacred Mount Inari, a stunning sight to see.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

See Kiyomizu-dera Temple

A historic temple offering beautiful views of Kyoto along with stunning cherry blossoms in spring.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Okonomiyaki Katsu

Enjoy savory Japanese pancakes (okonomiyaki) made to order with a variety of fillings.
JPY1200, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Gion District

Stroll through the historic geisha district, taking in the traditional wooden machiya houses.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sushiro

Enjoy conveyor belt sushi at this popular and budget-friendly chain, perfect for satisfying cravings.
JPY1000, 1 hour
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Day 6: Osaka Exploration

Osaka, Japan on November 6, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Start your day with a light breakfast at your accommodation.
Free with stay, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Travel to Osaka

Take a short train ride from Kyoto to Osaka, just 15 minutes away.
JPY450, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Osaka Castle

An iconic landmark with a beautiful park surrounding it, offering a glimpse into Japan's history.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori Street

Savor local flavors like takoyaki and okonomiyaki at Osaka's famous street food district.
JPY1500, 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Universal Studios Japan

Spend the afternoon enjoying thrilling rides and attractions at this famous amusement park, a treat for all ages.
JPY8600, 4 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M

Indulge in premium Wagyu beef at this upscale but affordable restaurant specializing in yakiniku.
JPY3000, 2 hours
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Day 7: Hiroshima Journey

Hiroshima, Japan on November 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Enjoy a simple breakfast in your hostel before traveling.
Free with stay, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Travel to Hiroshima

Take the Shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima, a fast rail journey lasting approximately 1.5 hours.
JPY10000 (one-way), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

A poignant memorial dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb, a must-visit for its historical significance.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Okonomimura

Taste Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at this unique food hall featuring several vendors.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

See the Atomic Bomb Dome

An iconic symbol of Hiroshima’s tragic past, worth a visit to learn about its history.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Hiroshima Castle

Explore the reconstructed castle filled with history and beautiful grounds.
JPY610, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Nankoku

Savor fresh seafood dishes in a local atmosphere, a perfect way to end the day.
JPY2000, 1 hour
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Day 8: Day Trip to Miyajima

Miyajima, Japan on November 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Have a light breakfast at your accommodation before heading out.
Free with stay, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Travel to Miyajima

Take a ferry from Hiroshima to Miyajima Island, famous for its floating torii gate.
JPY400 (round-trip), 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Itsukushima Shrine

This shrine is UNESCO-listed, featuring a stunning ceremonial floating torii gate.
JPY300, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Akiyoshi

Try grilled oysters, a local specialty found right on the island.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hike Mount Misen

Enjoy beautiful trails and views of the Seto Inland Sea on this scenic hike.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Hiroshima

Travel back to Hiroshima via ferry, reflecting on the stunning sights.
Included in transport cost, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Okonomi-dokoro

End the day with one last taste of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at this cozy establishment.
JPY1200, 1 hour
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Day 9: Cultural Nara

Nara, Japan on November 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast in your Hiroshima accommodation before traveling.
Free with stay, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Travel to Nara

Catch a direct train from Hiroshima to Nara, a journey of about 1.5 hours.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Nara Park

Meet the famous free-roaming deer, enjoy tranquility, and stroll around the picturesque park.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Saro Cafe

A lovely spot offering traditional Japanese lunches in a peaceful garden setting.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Todai-ji Temple

Home to a giant Buddha statue and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this temple is definitely worth a visit.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Kasuga-taisha Shrine

Admire the beautiful lanterns and serene forest surroundings of this iconic shrine.
JPY500, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Shizuka

Dine on delicious local cuisine at this quaint, cozy restaurant in Nara.
JPY1800, 1 hour
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Day 10: Return to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on November 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your accommodation before departure.
Free with stay, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Travel back to Tokyo

Take the Shinkansen from Nara to Tokyo for a speedy return to the city.
JPY14000 (one-way), 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tempura Kondo

Treat yourself to a delicious tempura meal at this Michelin-starred restaurant before your departure.
JPY3000, 2 hours

2:00PM

Last-minute Shopping in Shinjuku

Head back to Shinjuku for any last-minute purchases; a great way to remember your trip.
Varies, 2 hours

5:00PM

Departure

Head to Narita or Haneda Airport for your flight back home.
Free with train fare, 1 hour
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