Ultimate 9-Day Japan Itinerary: Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Universal Studios, Hiroshima, Himeji, Mt. Fuji & Tokyo

Day 1: Historic Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with specialty coffee and light breakfast at Inoda Coffee, a beloved Kyoto institution open from 7:30am.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore thousands of iconic red torii gates at this famous Shinto shrine, a must-visit for its cultural and scenic appeal. Opens 24 hours, but best visited early.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Taste various local specialties and street food at this lively market, open from 9am to 6pm, perfect for a casual and authentic lunch experience.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its wooden stage offering panoramic views over Kyoto. Open 6:00 am - 6:00 pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

3:30pm

Stroll through Gion District

Walk through Kyoto’s historic geisha district, spotting traditional teahouses and possibly geishas in the evening.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine in this atmospheric alley full of traditional Japanese restaurants offering kaiseki or yakitori. Reservations recommended.
JPY4000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Nara Half-Day Trip & Kyoto Temples

Kyoto and Nara, Japan on May 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Saganoyu Café

Enjoy a cozy Kyoto café breakfast before heading to Nara, opens from 8:00 am but arriving early is fine to get a table.
JPY1200, 1h0m

8:30am

Train to Nara

Take the JR Nara Line rapid service to Nara; travel time approx 45 minutes. Journey offers scenic views.
JPY710, 45m

9:30am

Visit Todai-ji Temple

See the Great Buddha housed here, one of Japan’s largest bronze Buddha statues. Open 7:30 am - 5:30 pm.
JPY600, 1h0m

10:45am

Nara Park and Deer Feeding

Walk through scenic Nara Park and feed friendly wild deer that roam freely, creating a unique experience.
JPY300 (for deer crackers), 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Maguro Koya Nara

Savor fresh and affordable tuna dishes in Nara’s favorite tuna specialty restaurant, open 11:00 am - 3:00 pm.
JPY1800, 1h0m

1:15pm

Train back to Kyoto

Return to Kyoto for afternoon sightseeing.
JPY710, 45m

2:15pm

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Admire this stunning Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf with reflective pond views. Open 9:00 am - 5:00 pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore Ryoan-ji Garden

Experience one of Japan’s most famous rock gardens nearby, known for its simplicity and Zen aesthetics. Open 8:00 am - 5:00 pm.
JPY500, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Sushi

Enjoy fresh and affordable sushi in the heart of Gion, open until 10 pm.
JPY3500, 1h30m
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Day 3: Kyoto Cultural Day

Kyoto, Japan on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Start with excellent coffee and light pastries from this popular specialty coffee shop, opens 8:00 am.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Nijo Castle

Explore this historic castle offering beautiful gardens and traditional interiors. Open 8:45 am - 5:00 pm.
JPY1000, 2h0m

11:45am

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

A highly recommended spot for udon noodles near Kodai-ji Temple, open 11:30 am - 9:00 pm.
JPY1800, 1h0m

1:00pm

Visit Philosopher’s Path

Walk the famous cherry-tree-lined canal path passing several temples; a tranquil and scenic experience.
Free, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Nanzen-ji Temple

Visit this large Zen temple complex with beautiful gardens and impressive gates. Open 8:40 am -5:00 pm.
JPY500, 1h0m

4:00pm

Tea Ceremony Experience at Camellia Garden

Participate in a traditional tea ceremony to immerse in Japanese culture. Sessions run through the day; book in advance.
JPY3000, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Issian Pontocho

Try Kyoto-style yakitori in this top-rated Pontocho alley restaurant. Reservations recommended.
JPY4500, 2h0m
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Day 4: Universal Studios Japan

Osaka, Japan on May 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Get a quick breakfast before heading early to Universal Studios for full day fun.
JPY1000, 0h30m

8:30am

Travel to Universal Studios Japan

Take JR train from Kyoto to Universal City Station, approx 1 hour.
JPY560, 1h0m

9:30am

Universal Studios Japan

Spend the entire day enjoying rides and attractions including Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Park hours typically 8:30 am to 9:00 pm.
JPY8800, 10h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Mel's Drive-In

Enjoy casual American diner style dining within the park before heading back.
JPY2500, 1h0m

9:00pm

Return to Osaka or Kyoto hotel

Take the train back; relax after a fun day.
JPY560, 1h0m
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Day 5: Hiroshima Day Trip

Hiroshima, Japan on May 20, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast near hotel

Have a hearty breakfast early to prepare for the day trip.
JPY1000, 0h30m

7:30am

Shinkansen to Hiroshima

Take the bullet train from Shin-Osaka or Kyoto to Hiroshima; about 1.5-2 hours travel.
JPY10,000, 2h0m

9:30am

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum

Visit the poignant park and museum dedicated to the atomic bomb victims, open 8:30 am - 6:00 pm.
JPY200, 2h0m

11:30am

Atomic Bomb Dome

See the iconic preserved ruin symbolizing peace, located within the park.
Free, 0h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Okonomimura

Eat Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at this famous food building with multiple vendors, open 11:00 am - 10:00 pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Miyajima Island Excursion

Take ferry (approx 10 min) to Miyajima to see Itsukushima Shrine and floating torii gate, open 6:30 am - 6 pm.
JPY200 (ferry) + JPY300 (shrine), 3h0m

5:30pm

Return to Hiroshima Station

Travel back to Hiroshima Station by ferry and train for return trip.
Included above, 1h0m

6:30pm

Shinkansen back to Kyoto/Osaka

Return by bullet train, relax after a full day of exploration.
JPY10,000, 2h0m

8:30pm

Dinner near hotel

Casual dinner at local izakaya for some light eats after travel.
JPY2500, 1h0m
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Day 6: Himeji Castle & Surroundings

Himeji, Japan on May 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast before travel.
JPY1000, 0h30m

8:00am

Train to Himeji

Take JR shinkansen or conventional train from Osaka or Kyoto to Himeji, around 1 hour.
JPY3000, 1h0m

9:30am

Himeji Castle

Visit one of Japan’s most spectacular castles, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Open 9:00 am - 5:00 pm.
JPY1000, 2h0m

11:30am

Kokoen Garden

Stroll this beautiful traditional garden located next to the castle, open 9:00 am - 5:00 pm.
JPY300, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Engyo Sushi

Enjoy fresh sushi at a popular nearby restaurant open 11:00 am - 2:00 pm.
JPY2500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Himeji City Museum of Art

Discover regional and Japanese art exhibits. Open 10:00 am - 5:00 pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

3:30pm

Return to Osaka

Travel back to Osaka for evening relaxation.
JPY3000, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Dotonbori Street

Experience Osaka’s vibrant nightlife and food scene with takoyaki and okonomiyaki stalls, open late.
JPY3000, 2h0m
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Day 7: Osaka City Highlights

Osaka, Japan on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at LiLo Coffee Roasters

Enjoy specialty coffee and fresh pastries at trendy café open from 8:00 am.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Osaka Castle

Visit iconic Osaka Castle with museum and panoramic observation deck. Opens 9:00 am - 5:00 pm.
JPY600, 2h0m

11:45am

Lunch at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Indulge in fresh seafood, grilled meats and local snacks at this lively market open 9:00 am - 6:00 pm.
JPY2000, 1h0m

1:00pm

Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Explore shopping, cafés and boutiques along this famous covered shopping street.
Free, 2h0m

3:30pm

Visit Umeda Sky Building

Enjoy city skyline views from this unique skyscraper’s floating garden observatory, open until 10:30 pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Spa World Osaka

Experience themed baths and relaxation at this large spa complex open 10:00 am - midnight.
JPY1200, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma

Try Osaka’s signature deep-fried skewered dishes in a local favorite open until late.
JPY3500, 1h30m
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Day 8: Osaka Cultural & Food Day

Osaka, Japan on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Brooklyn Roasting Company

Enjoy high-quality coffee and healthy options in this popular downtown café.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Visit one of Japan’s oldest shrines showcasing unique architecture. Open from sunrise to sunset.
Free, 1h0m

11:00am

Osaka Museum of History

Explore the rich history of Osaka through engaging exhibits. Opens 9:30 am - 5:00 pm, closed Mondays.
JPY600, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Tsurutontan Dotonbori

Savor Udon noodles with creative toppings in a modern setting, open for lunch from 11:00 am.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Namba Yasaka Shrine

Visit this unique shrine with giant lion head stage, a fascinating cultural sight.
Free, 0h45m

3:00pm

Relax at Nakanoshima Park

Enjoy riverside gardens and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for a restful stroll.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Shopping in Nipponbashi Den Den Town

Explore Japan’s electronics and anime district with unique shops and cafes.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M

Enjoy premium Matsusaka beef yakiniku (grilled meat) with various cuts, open till 10 pm.
JPY6000, 1h30m
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Day 9: Mt. Fuji & Tokyo Arrival

Mt. Fuji and Tokyo, Japan on May 24, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast near Osaka hotel

Grab a quick and energizing breakfast prior to travel.
JPY1000, 0h30m

6:30am

Travel to Mt. Fuji area

Take shinkansen and local trains via Mishima to Fuji Five Lakes or Hakone region, approx 3-4 hours total.
JPY8000, 4h0m

10:30am

Mt. Fuji 5th Station Visit

Visit the 5th Station for spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and surrounding landscapes, accessible seasonally. Check local bus operation times (usually 7:30 am–5:00 pm).
JPY2000 (bus), 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at local mountain restaurant

Try Hoto noodles, a local specialty, at a restaurant near the 5th station or Fuji area.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:45pm

Travel to Tokyo

Continue onward by train/bus to Tokyo (2-3 hours depending on route).
JPY2500, 3h0m

4:45pm

Check into Tokyo hotel

Settle into your accommodation and freshen up after a long travel day.
Varies, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Enjoy vibrant ambiance and traditional Japanese cuisine, famous as the inspiration for the Kill Bill fight scene, open until 11 pm.
JPY4500, 2h0m
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