Comprehensive 12-Day Japan Itinerary: Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka & Iconic Day Trips

Day 1: Arrival & Shibuya

Tokyo, Japan on May 17, 2025

9:00AM

Check-in at Kuramae/Asakusa (Rima)

Settle into your accommodation located in the traditional area of Kuramae or Asakusa, perfect for a blend of old Tokyo charm and modern convenience.
Included in accommodation, 1h

11:00AM

Explore Shibuya Crossing

Experience the famous and bustling Shibuya Crossing, known as the world's busiest pedestrian scramble, capturing the vibrant energy of Tokyo.
Free, 1h

12:00PM

Lunch at Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka (Conveyor Belt Sushi)

Enjoy a fun and affordable sushi lunch at this popular revolving sushi restaurant near Shibuya Crossing, open from 11AM to 11PM.
JPY 1500 approx, 1h

2:00PM

Shopping and Nightlife Exploration in Shibuya

Browse trendy shops, department stores, and explore nightlife spots including bars and small live music venues. Perfect for people-watching and experiencing modern Tokyo culture.
Variable, Evening

7:30PM

Dinner at Ichiran Shibuya (Ramen)

Taste delicious tonkotsu ramen at this famous ramen chain with a unique solo dining experience, open till late (usually until 3AM).
JPY 1000-1500, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Tokyo East & West

Tokyo, Japan on May 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kuramae Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of the cozy cafes in Kuramae, known for artisanal coffee and fresh pastries, opening around 7:30AM.
JPY 800-1200, 1h

9:00AM

Tokyo Skytree Visit

Visit the tallest tower in Japan and enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo from the observation decks; open from 8AM to 10PM.
JPY 2100, 1.5h

11:00AM

Disney Flagship Store, Shinjuku

Explore the massive Disney Store in Shinjuku for unique merchandise; store hours 10AM to 9PM.
Free entry, 1h

12:15PM

Visit Gotokuji Lucky Cat Temple

Discover the temple believed to have inspired the famous Maneki-neko (beckoning cat), a symbol of luck and prosperity; open 9AM-5PM.
Free, 45m

1:15PM

Lunch at Kuramae Saryo

Enjoy traditional Japanese dishes with a modern twist in Kuramae, serving set meals from noon onwards.
JPY 1500-2000, 1h

2:30PM

Sumo Match Viewing (if available)

Check availability and watch a sumo wrestling match, a quintessential Japanese sport and culture experience.
Variable; advance booking needed, 2h

4:30PM

Meiji Shrine Visit

Explore this iconic shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji, surrounded by a tranquil forest, open from sunrise to sunset (about 5PM in May).
Free, 1h

5:30PM

Harajuku & Takeshita Dori

Walk through Takeshita Street, famous for youth fashion, crepes and unique boutiques, open until early evening.
Free, 1h

6:30PM

Try Jiggly Pancakes / Crepes at Marion Crepes

Indulge in fluffy pancakes or sweet crepes in Harajuku, legendary for quick snacks open till 8PM.
JPY 500-700, 30m

7:15PM

Explore Omotesando Architecture Street

Stroll this upscale avenue featuring stunning modern architectural buildings and designer shops, open until 8PM.
Free, 45m

8:00PM

Visit Tokyo Tower

View the city illuminated from Tokyo Tower’s observation decks, open until 11PM.
JPY 1200, 1h

9:15PM

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Enjoy free night views of the city from the observatory deck, open until 11PM.
Free, 45m

10:15PM

Shinjuku Nightlife: Golden Gai, Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho

Experience eclectic nightlife in Shinjuku’s famous narrow alleys filled with bars and local eateries, ideal for a lively evening.
Variable, Rest of night
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Tokyo Experiences

Tokyo, Japan on May 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast near TeamLab Planets

Grab a quick breakfast at local cafés such as Onibus Coffee in Toyosu, opening around 7AM.
JPY 700-1000, 30m

9:30AM

TeamLab Planets

Immerse in this spectacular digital art museum featuring interactive light displays; pre-book tickets, open 9:30AM–7PM.
JPY 3200, 2h

11:45AM

Shibuya Sky Observation Deck

Panoramic views of Tokyo from this rooftop deck above Shibuya Scramble Square; open 9AM to 11PM.
JPY 2000, 1h

1:00PM

Lunch at Isetan Food Hall, Shinjuku

Explore gourmet Japanese and international options at this upscale department food hall open until 8PM.
JPY 1500-2500, 1h

2:30PM

Tokyo Skytree Repeat & Disney Store Visit (optional)

Return for additional shopping or revisit attractions based on interest.
Variable, 1h

4:00PM

Samurai Restaurant Dinner Experience

Dine in a themed restaurant offering authentic Japanese cuisine with samurai ambiance; reservations recommended.
JPY 3000-5000, 2h

7:00PM

Night Shibuya Go-Karting

Drive around Shibuya at night in costumes for a unique urban tour; book ahead, rides typically last 1h.
JPY 7000 approx, 1h

8:30PM

Sakurai Tea Ceremony Experience

Enjoy an authentic traditional tea ceremony in Asakusa, a calming cultural practice to end an exciting day; book in advance.
JPY 2000-3000, 1h

10:00PM

Leisurely walk in Asakusa, Ueno Park, Akihabara

Explore the illuminated streets and night atmosphere with various shops and late-night cafés.
Free, 30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Yokohama & Enoshima

Yokohama & Enoshima, Japan on May 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tokyo Station Gransta

Grab pastries or a quick Japanese breakfast from shops inside Tokyo Station before departure.
JPY 800-1200, 30m

9:00AM

Travel to Yokohama

Take the JR Tokaido Line from Tokyo to Yokohama, about 30 mins.
JPY 480, 30m

10:00AM

See the Giant Gundam at Gundam Factory Yokohama

Admire the life-sized moving Unicorn Gundam and learn about mobile suit history; open 10AM-8PM.
JPY 1900, 1.5h

12:00PM

Lunch at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse

Dine at this iconic cultural complex by the bay offering a variety of international and Japanese cuisine, open 11AM-9PM.
JPY 1500-2500, 1h

1:30PM

Travel to Enoshima Island

Travel by train to Enoshima for coastal exploration, approximately 1 hour journey.
JPY 800, 1h

3:00PM

Explore Enoshima Island & Coast

Visit Enoshima Shrine, enjoy ocean views, and walk the beautiful coastal paths; mostly open, free except some attractions.
Free to JPY 500 for certain spots, 3h

6:00PM

Dinner at Enoshima Local Seafood Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood dinner with coastal ambiance, many restaurants open until 8PM.
JPY 2000-3500, 1h

7:30PM

Return to Tokyo

Head back by train to Tokyo for overnight stay.
JPY 1500, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Mt. Fuji & Kawaguchiko

Kawaguchiko & Mt. Fuji, Japan on May 21, 2025

7:00AM

Early Breakfast in Tokyo

Grab a quick breakfast near your lodging, get ready for day trip.
JPY 700-1000, 30m

8:00AM

Travel to Kawaguchiko

Take highway bus or train to Kawaguchiko, approximately 2 hours.
JPY 2000-2500, 2h

10:00AM

Visit Mt. Fuji Viewpoints

Explore scenic spots around Kawaguchiko with stunning views of Mt. Fuji, ideal for photos and hiking.
Free, 2h

12:00PM

Fuji Shibazakura Festival

Experience the colorful flower festival with views of Mt. Fuji, usually open 8:00AM to 6:00PM in May.
JPY 600, 1.5h

1:30PM

Lunch at Local Kawaguchiko Restaurant

Try specialty Hoto noodles or other local dishes at restaurants near the festival.
JPY 1200-1800, 1h

3:00PM

Afternoon Shopping at Gotemba Premium Outlet

Travel to Gotemba (approx 50 minutes) for shopping at one of Japan’s largest outlet malls, open 10AM-8PM.
Free entry, 3h

6:30PM

Dinner at Gotemba Outlet Food Court

Enjoy casual dinner from multiple cuisines available in the outlet’s food court.
JPY 1000-1500, 1h

8:00PM

Return to Tokyo

Head back to Tokyo by highway bus or train to rest for next day.
JPY 2500, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Hakone Adventure

Hakone, Japan on May 22, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast in Tokyo

Have a filling breakfast before departure.
JPY 800-1200, 30m

9:00AM

Depart Tokyo for Hakone

Travel by train or highway bus to Hakone, about 3 hours depending on route.
JPY 2000-3000, 3h

12:00PM

Check-in and Drop Luggage at Hotel

Settle into your accommodation and prepare for afternoon activities.
Accommodation Included, 30m

1:00PM

Begin Hakone Loop

Ride the Hakone Tozan Cablecar enjoying mountain views, then a visit to Owakudani Volcanic Valley featuring hot springs and sulfur vents; cablecar and ropeway open 9AM-5PM.
JPY 1800 for loop pass, 3h

5:00PM

Explore Hakone City

Walk around Hakone-Yumoto area, visiting shops and local sites.
Free, 1h

7:00PM

Onsen Soak and Dinner at Hotel

Relax in your hotel’s onsen (hot spring bath) and enjoy a traditional Kaiseki or local style dinner included or arranged by your accommodation.
Included in hotel stay, Evening
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Hakone to Kyoto

Hakone / Kyoto, Japan on May 23, 2025

7:30AM

Morning Onsen at Hotel Okada

Enjoy an early morning soak in this popular onsen spot before departure.
JPY 1500 approx, 1h

10:00AM

Travel from Hakone to Kyoto

Take shinkansen from Odawara Station to Kyoto, journey roughly 2.5 hours.
JPY 13000 approx, 3h

1:30PM

Check-in Kyoto Hotel

Drop bags and freshen up for afternoon sightseeing.
Included, 30m

2:00PM

Visit Nishiki Market

Explore Kyoto’s traditional food market filled with fresh produce and street snacks; open roughly 9AM-6PM.
Free entry, 1h

3:15PM

Arashiyama Exploration

Visit the Bamboo Grove and nearby temples, a serene and beautiful part of Kyoto.
Free for bamboo path, 1.5h

5:00PM

Nijo Castle Visit

Tour this historic castle known for its ornate interiors and beautiful gardens; open 8:45AM-5PM.
JPY 1000, 1h

6:15PM

Gion District Walk

Stroll the famous Geisha district for possible sightings and atmospheric streets.
Free, 45m

7:00PM

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Enjoy a traditional Kyoto kaiseki meal in historic Gion; reservations recommended.
JPY 5000+, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Amanohashidate Day Trip

Amanohashidate, Japan on May 24, 2025

7:00AM

Early Breakfast in Kyoto

Fuel up with local Japanese breakfast before departure.
JPY 800-1200, 30m

8:00AM

Travel to Amanohashidate

Take train from Kyoto to Amanohashidate, approx 2 hours via limited express.
JPY 2500 approx, 2h

10:15AM

Explore Amanohashidate Sandbar

Enjoy walking or cycling along the pine-covered sandbar with spectacular views, open all day.
Free, 2h

12:30PM

Lunch at Local Eatery

Sample fresh seafood or local specialties near the scenic area.
JPY 1500-2000, 1h

2:00PM

Visit Amanohashidate Viewpoints

Take chairlift or cable car for panoramic views from mountains at both ends of the sandbar; open until 5PM.
JPY 1000 round trip, 1h

3:30PM

Return to Kyoto

Travel back by train for evening in Kyoto.
JPY 2500, 2h

6:00PM

Dinner in Kyoto

Choose from local izakayas or Kyoto style eateries near hotel.
JPY 2000-3500, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Kyoto to Osaka

Kyoto / Osaka, Japan on May 25, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast near accommodation

Light breakfast to prepare for a busy day of sightseeing.
JPY 700-1000, 30m

8:00AM

Fushimi Inari Shrine Visit

Walk through thousands of iconic red torii gates at this famous shrine, open 24 hours.
Free, 1h

9:30AM

Bamboo Garden / Adashino Nenbutsu-ji

Visit the tranquil bamboo grove and historic temple known for stone monuments, open 9AM-5PM.
JPY 500, 1h

10:45AM

Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)

Admire the famous golden temple reflected in the pond, open 9AM-5PM.
JPY 400, 1h

12:00PM

Philosopher’s Path Walk and Temples

Stroll this scenic path visiting Honen-in and Eikando temples, open morning till about 5PM.
Free entry, 1h

1:00PM

Lunch at Vermillion Cafe or Monk Pizza

Reserve a spot at Vermillion Cafe for light meals or Monk Pizza for delicious slices; both located near Philosopher’s Path.
JPY 1500-2500, 1h

2:15PM

Gyojabashi Bridge and Kamo River Walk

Relax by the river and enjoy the atmosphere before heading to Gion for afternoon.
Free, 45m

3:15PM

Geisha Performance at Gion Kagai Art Museum

Witness traditional dance and culture; check exact performance times and book in advance.
JPY 2000-3000, 1h

4:30PM

Travel from Kyoto to Osaka

Take train to Osaka, about 30-45 minutes.
JPY 560, 45m

5:30PM

Check-in Osaka Hotel

Freshen up and prepare for evening nightlife exploration.
Included, 30m

6:00PM

Explore Osaka Nightlife

Visit Dotonbori area with its bright lights, street food, and entertainment options.
Variable, Evening

8:00PM

Dinner at Ganko Food or Que Pasa (Mexican)

Choose traditional Osaka cuisine at Ganko or Mexican fare at Que Pasa; open till late.
JPY 2000-3500, 1.5h

9:45PM

Coffee at Wife & Husband Coffee

Relax with coffee or dessert at this popular Osaka café to end the night.
JPY 700-1000, 30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Osaka & Nara

Osaka & Nara, Japan on May 26, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast near Osaka hotel

Start early with a hearty breakfast to fuel the day.
JPY 700-1000, 30m

8:30AM

Travel to Nara Deer Park

Take train from Osaka to Nara, approx 45 minutes.
JPY 560, 45m

9:15AM

Explore Nara Deer Park and Todai-ji Temple

Feed friendly deer in the park and visit Todai-ji, housing the massive Daibutsu Buddha; park open all day, temple 8AM-5PM.
JPY 600 temple entry, 3h

12:30PM

Lunch at Nara Local Restaurant

Try Nara specialties such as kakinoha sushi or local wagyu.
JPY 1500-2500, 1h

2:00PM

Return to Osaka

Travel back for afternoon leisure and shopping.
JPY 560, 45m

3:00PM

Osaka Shopping and Sightseeing

Visit Shinsaibashi shopping arcade or Umeda Sky Building for views.
Variable, Afternoon to evening

7:00PM

Dinner at local Izakaya

Enjoy authentic Japanese pub food and drinks to unwind.
JPY 2000-3500, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Universal Studios Japan

Osaka, Japan on May 27, 2025

5:30AM

Early Breakfast

Grab a quick breakfast for energy; some convenience stores open 24 hours.
JPY 500-700, 30m

6:00AM

Arrive Early at Universal Studios Japan

Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy all major rides and attractions; park opens at 8AM.
JPY 8200, All day

12:00PM

Lunch Inside Universal Studios Japan

Choose from multiple themed restaurants to rest and refuel.
JPY 1500-2500, 1h

7:00PM

Return to Hotel

After an exciting day, relax at your hotel or explore nearby nightlife if energy permits.
Included, Evening
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Osaka to Tokyo

Osaka / Tokyo, Japan on May 28, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Osaka Hotel

Enjoy last local breakfast before departure.
Included or JPY 700-1000, 30m

8:00AM

Travel from Osaka to Tokyo

Board Shinkansen for speedy return to Tokyo, about 3 hours journey.
JPY 14200, 3h

11:30AM

Check-in / Store Luggage in Tokyo

Drop bags at accommodation or storage facility for easy shopping.
Variable, 30m

12:00PM

Last Minute Shopping in Tokyo

Visit areas such as Ginza, Akihabara, or Shinjuku for souvenirs and gifts, open all day.
Variable, Afternoon

6:00PM

Final Dinner at Sushi Zanmai (Tsukiji Area)

Enjoy fresh sushi and celebrate your Japan adventure with a final meal; open until midnight.
JPY 3000-5000, 1h

7:30PM

Evening Walk along Sumida River

Take a peaceful stroll and reflect on your trip before packing for departure.
Free, 1h
View Hotel Availability