16-Day Japan Itinerary for First Timers: Tokyo to Osaka

Day 1: Tokyo Exploration

Tokyo, Japan on March 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Conbini

Start your day with a quick and delicious breakfast from a convenience store, enjoying onigiri and bento boxes.
JPY500, 30 mins

9:00AM

Hie Shrine

Visit this serene shrine nestled in the heart of Tokyo; it's a perfect spot for reflection.
JPY0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Meiji Jingu

Explore the beautiful garden and shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
JPY0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Yoyogi Park

Walk through one of Tokyo's largest parks, relax, or have a picnic among the cherry blossoms.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Gyukatsu Motomura (Harajuku Branch)

Savour their famous gyukatsu - breaded and fried beef cutlet served with rice and miso.
JPY1,500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city from this free observation deck.
JPY0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shinjuku Game World (Optional)

If time permits, try some classic Japanese arcade games in this vibrant entertainment area.
JPY200, 1 hour

4:00PM

Omoide Yokocho

Stroll through this narrow alley filled with traditional izakaya (pubs) and eat local snacks.
JPY1,000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Tokyo, Japan on March 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Experience some of the freshest sushi and seafood for breakfast at the market.
JPY2,000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Imperial Palace

Visit the stunning East Gardens of the royal palace while enjoying beautiful landscaping.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Akihabara

Dive into the heart of otaku culture with its countless shops for anime, manga, and electronics.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sometarō Okonomiyaki

Try your hand at cooking your own okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake, in this fun atmosphere.
JPY1,500, 1 hour

2:15PM

Sensō-ji and Asakusa Shrine

Visit Tokyo's oldest temple and the bustling Nakamise street leading to it for snacks and souvenirs.
JPY0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Uniqlo Ginza

Shop at the flagship store of this popular Japanese clothing brand for fashionable finds.
JPY0, 1 hour

6:00PM

TeamLab Planets

Pre-booked immersive digital art experience; plan to spend a few hours exploring.
JPY3,200, 2.5 hours

9:00PM

Tokyo Tower (Optional)

Visit this iconic landmark for a night view of Tokyo.
JPY1,200, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Shibuya Day

Tokyo, Japan on March 26, 2025

9:30AM

Breakfast at Mega Don Quijote

Start your day with an array of breakfast items from this popular discount store.
JPY800, 30 mins

10:30AM

Mandarake

Explore this famous manga and anime shop, a must-visit for any fan.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Maruyama-cho or Kamiyamacho

Wander through charming streets filled with unique cafés and independent boutiques.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Ramen Makotoya - Shibuya Center Gai

Grab a bowl of rich and flavourful ramen in a bustling atmosphere.
JPY1,200, 1 hour

2:30PM

Shibuya Crossing

Experience Tokyo’s famous intersection and people-watch during the daytime.
JPY0, 30 mins

3:00PM

Hachiko Memorial

Visit the statue of Hachiko, the loyal dog known for waiting for his owner.
JPY0, 30 mins

4:00PM

Shibuya Sky

Get the best views of Tokyo from this observation deck, perfect for sunset.
JPY2,000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sushi-dokoro Shigeru

Reserve ahead to experience a top-quality omakase from one of the best!
JPY8,000, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Karaoke or Bar

End your night with some fun at a karaoke box, a quintessential Japanese experience.
JPY3,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Tokyo to Hakone

Hakone, Japan on March 27, 2025

8:00AM

Drive to Enoshima

Start your journey with a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Enoshima.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Breakfast at Uomi-tei

Enjoy delicious fresh seafood and a tranquil morning atmosphere.
JPY1,500, 1 hour

11:30AM

Drive to Hakone

Continue your journey to Hakone, known for its hot springs and natural beauty.
JPY0, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Hakone Adventures

Hakone, Japan on March 28, 2025

9:00AM

Gotemba Premium Outlets

Shop at this large outlet mall featuring a variety of brands with great discounts.
JPY0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Crazy Crepes

Indulge in refreshing crepes from this popular local spot after shopping.
JPY1,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hakone Open Air Museum

Explore this unique outdoor museum showcasing art installations set against the stunning backdrop of mountains.
JPY1,600, 2 hours

3:30PM

Onsen Experience

Relax in the famous hot springs of Hakone. Check with the hotel for onsen options.
JPY3,000, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Togendai View Restaurant

Dine with a spectacular view of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi.
JPY2,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Mount Fuji Day

Mount Fuji, Japan on March 29, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Park

Start with fluffy pancakes accompanied by beautiful views of Mount Fuji.
JPY1,500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Oshino Hakkai

Discover this beautiful village with eight ponds fed by snowmelt from Mount Fuji.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Honcho Street

Enjoy local delicacies along this charming street filled with shops and eateries.
JPY1,500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine

Visit this scenic shrine with a fantastic view of Fuji; best experienced on a clear day.
JPY0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Lake Kawaguchiko

Spend some relaxing time by the lake, possibly with a boat ride if time permits.
JPY2,000, 1 hour

6:30PM

Find Dinner at Lawson Kawaguchiko Station

Grab quick bites or bento boxes for dinner at this convenient store before resting.
JPY1,000, 30 mins
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Nikko Journey

Nikko, Japan on March 30, 2025

8:00AM

Drive to Nikko

A scenic drive of approximately 2 hours to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
JPY0, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Nikko National Park

See some of Japan's most breathtaking natural scenery filled with waterfalls and lakes.
JPY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Yuba-ya Saito

Savour traditional yuba (tofu skin) dishes that Nikko is famous for.
JPY1,800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore this ornate shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, rich in history and architecture.
JPY1,300, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Kegon Falls

Admire one of Japan's most famous waterfalls located in Nikko National Park.
JPY0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Kanaya Hotel's Restaurant

Enjoy fine dining with an intriguing mix of Western and Japanese cuisine.
JPY3,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Return to Tokyo and Travel to Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on March 31, 2025

8:00AM

Return Car in Tokyo

Drive back and return the rental car.
JPY0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Shinkansen to Kyoto

Take the bullet train for a speedy and efficient transfer to Kyoto.
JPY14,500, 2 hours

12:00PM

Check-in Hotel in Kyoto

Sort out your accommodation upon arrival in Kyoto.
JPY0, 30 mins

1:00PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample delicious street food and local delicacies from this bustling market.
JPY2,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the stunning Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf; a breathtaking sight.
JPY400, 1 hour

4:30PM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Stroll through this magical bamboo forest; a photographer's paradise.
JPY0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy traditional soba noodles with views of the Katsura River.
JPY1,800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Cultural Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on April 1, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional Japanese-style breakfast at your accommodation.
JPY1,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Wander through the iconic torii gates that lead up the mountain; it is a unique cultural experience.
JPY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Omen

Savour flavorful udon noodles with fresh, seasonal ingredients in a tranquil setting.
JPY1,500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Absorb the tranquility at this Zen temple with beautiful gardens.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Philosopher's Path

Take a scenic walk along a cherry blossom-lined canal; perfect for photos.
JPY0, 1 hour

4:30PM

Nanzen-ji Temple

Explore the beautiful temple complex and gardens at a leisurely pace.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Yudofu Sagano

Enjoy a quiet meal of boiled tofu, a local delicacy of Kyoto.
JPY2,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Exploring Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on April 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for the day with another traditional breakfast meal.
JPY1,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit this iconic temple famous for its wooden stage and great views of the city, especially in spring.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Okonomiyaki Kagawa

Enjoy delicious okonomiyaki that Kyoto is famous for; cook it yourself at the table!
JPY1,200, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Gion District

Walk through this historic district, perfect for spotting geisha and traditional wooden houses.
JPY0, 1 hour

2:30PM

Nijo Castle

Explore this beautiful historic castle known for its gardens and 'nightingale' floors.
JPY1,000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Treat yourself to a kaiseki dinner, a multi-course Japanese meal that showcases seasonal ingredients.
JPY7,000, 2.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Day Trip to Nara

Nara, Japan on April 3, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy one last breakfast at your Kyoto hotel before heading out.
JPY1,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Nara

Take a quick train ride to Nara, Japan's first capital.
JPY1,440, 1 hour

10:30AM

Nara Park

Meet the friendly free-roaming deer while enjoying the tranquillity of the park.
JPY0, 1 hour

11:30AM

Todai-ji Temple

Visit this historic temple housing the Great Buddha statue, a must-see in Nara.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Maguro Koya

Delight in fresh tuna bowls and seafood dishes at this local eatery.
JPY1,600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Nara National Museum

Learn about Nara's historical significance and traditional culture.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Train back to Kyoto

Head back to Kyoto after a day of exploring.
JPY1,440, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Ponto-cho Alley

Stroll along this lantern-lit alley and dine at one of the many izakayas or restaurants.
JPY2,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Osaka Arrival

Osaka, Japan on April 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast in your hotel before leaving Kyoto.
JPY1,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Osaka

Take a short train ride from Kyoto to Osaka.
JPY500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Universal Studios Japan (Optional)

Spend a day exciting thrills and attractions at this famous amusement park.
JPY8,400, 8 hours

11:00AM

Osaka Castle

Alternatively, explore the stunning architecture of this historic castle and its gardens.
JPY600, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch in Dotonbori

Sample Osaka's famous street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki in this vibrant area.
JPY2,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shitenno-ji Temple

Visit the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan, a picturesque spot for admiration.
JPY300, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Matsusaka Beef Steak

Indulge in a sumptuous meal featuring Matsusaka beef, a culinary highlight of Japan.
JPY10,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Osaka City Exploration

Osaka, Japan on April 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel to start your exploring.
JPY1,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Explore one of the world's largest aquariums filled with exciting marine life.
JPY2,400, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Dig into fresh seafood and local specialities at this bustling market.
JPY2,500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Umeda Sky Building

Head to this stunning high-rise for breathtaking views of Osaka from the observatory.
JPY1,500, 1 hour

3:30PM

Shopping in Shinsaibashi

Spend the afternoon shopping in this trendy shopping district filled with boutiques and shops.
JPY0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Zuboraya

Try the famous blowfish (fugu) at this well-regarded restaurant, a daring culinary adventure.
JPY5,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Leisure Day in Osaka

Osaka, Japan on April 6, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel to start your day.
JPY1,000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Spa World

Relax and enjoy various onsen experiences in this unique hot spring spa.
JPY3,000, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Tenjinbashi-suji

Savour affordable and tasty dishes in this long shopping arcade.
JPY1,500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Osaka's Street Art

Discover local street art around the city; spots include Nakazakicho and Minoh.
JPY0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Enjoy Osaka’s famous kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) in this popular chain.
JPY1,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 15: A Day in Universal Studios Japan (Optional)

Osaka, Japan on April 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for an exciting day at Universal Studios.
JPY1,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Universal Studios Japan

Spend the day enjoying thrilling rides and entertainment at this major theme park.
JPY8,400, 8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at the Park

Choose from various dining options within the park for a convenient meal.
JPY3,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 16: Departure from Osaka

Osaka, Japan on April 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savour your last breakfast in Japan.
JPY1,000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Check-out and Departure

Check out from your accommodation and prepare for your departure.
JPY0, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability