10-Day Autumn Japan Adventure: Tokyo to Kyoto and Osaka Itinerary

Day 1: Tokyo Arrival & Exploration

Tokyo, Japan on October 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Enjoy fresh sushi and traditional Japanese breakfast dishes at Tsukiji Outer Market, renowned for its fresh seafood stalls and vibrant atmosphere.
JPY1500, 1h

9:30am

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo’s oldest temple located in Asakusa, featuring the iconic Kaminarimon Gate and vibrant Nakamise shopping street.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk through Ueno Park and visit Tokyo National Museum

Stroll in beautiful Ueno Park and visit Tokyo National Museum to immerse in Japanese history and art, open 9:30am to 5pm.
JPY620, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Innsyoutei in Ueno Park

Enjoy a seasonal Kaiseki (multi-course) lunch in a serene setting inside Ueno Park, perfect for sampling traditional Japanese cuisine.
JPY3500, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Akihabara District

Dive into Japan’s otaku culture by visiting electronics shops, anime stores, and themed cafés in Akihabara.
Free to browse, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Dine at the famous Gonpachi restaurant, inspiration for the Kill Bill movie, known for its izakaya atmosphere and delicious grilled dishes.
JPY4000, 1h30m

Day 2: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan on October 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel in Tokyo

Start early with a light Japanese breakfast at your accommodation preparing for a day trip.
Included in accommodation, 1h

8:30am

Train to Nikko

Take the Tobu Limited Express from Asakusa to Nikko, approximately 2 hours.
JPY2700, 2h

10:30am

Visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine

Explore the lavishly decorated Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its intricate carvings and peaceful surroundings.
JPY1300, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Savor local Nikko specialties at this casual and beloved noodle and yakitori spot.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji

Take a bus to enjoy scenic views of Kegon Falls and the tranquil Lake Chuzenji, ideal for autumn colours.
Bus fare JPY1000, 2h

4:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Travel back to central Tokyo for a relaxed evening.
Included above, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ichiran Ramen Shibuya

Enjoy customized tonkotsu ramen in a unique solo dining booth experience at Ichiran in Shibuya, open till late.
JPY1200, 1h

Day 3: Tokyo City Highlights

Tokyo, Japan on October 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bread, Espresso &

Start the morning with artisanal pastries and coffee at this popular Shibuya bakery, open from 8am.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park

Visit the peaceful Meiji Shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji, and enjoy a stroll around adjacent Yoyogi Park.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Explore Harajuku Takeshita Street

Experience quirky fashion, street food, and youth culture in this colorful shopping street near Meiji Shrine.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Afuri Harajuku

Try famous yuzu-flavored ramen in an elegant setting, perfect for a light lunch.
JPY1200, 1h

2:00pm

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck

Get panoramic views of Tokyo’s skyline for free from the 45th floor observatories, open till 11pm.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Shopping and coffee break in Shinjuku

Browse department stores like Isetan and enjoy coffee at a local café in the bustling Shinjuku area.
Varies, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Omoide Yokocho

Dine at this nostalgic alleyway lined with small yakitori and izakaya eateries offering authentic Japanese comfort food.
JPY3000, 1h30m

Day 4: Day trip to Kamakura

Kamakura, Japan on October 28, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a hearty breakfast at your Tokyo accommodation before traveling.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Train to Kamakura

Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo to Kamakura, around 1h travel time.
JPY920, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kotoku-in and Great Buddha

Encounter the iconic 13.35m tall bronze Great Buddha statue, a symbol of Kamakura’s rich history.
JPY200, 1h

11:00am

Explore Hasedera Temple

Visit the beautiful temple known for its gardens and panoramic views of Sagami Bay, especially lovely in autumn.
JPY400, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Kamakura Matsubaraan Soba

Enjoy traditional soba noodles served with fresh local ingredients at a well-known Kamakura establishment.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Walk through Komachi Street

Shop and sample street food along Komachi-dori, a bustling shopping street lined with quaint shops and cafes.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Return to Tokyo

Head back to Tokyo by train and relax before dinner.
Included above, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Sushi Zanmai Tsukiji

End the day with fresh sushi and sashimi at Sushi Zanmai in Tsukiji, open till late.
JPY4000, 1h30m

Day 5: Travel to Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on October 29, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast in Tokyo before catching the Shinkansen.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Shinkansen to Kyoto

Board the Nozomi Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Kyoto, a journey of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
JPY14000, 2h15m

11:00am

Check-in and rest

Arrive at your accommodation in Kyoto and take some time to rest and freshen up.
Varies, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Izuju Sushi

Savor traditional Kyoto-style pressed sushi near Gion district, open from 11am.
JPY2500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Famous for its wooden stage offering breathtaking views of Kyoto, especially stunning in vibrant autumn colors.
JPY400, 1h30m

4:00pm

Stroll through Gion District

Walk the historic streets of Gion, famous for its wooden machiya houses and chance of spotting geishas.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Nanba

Dine at this Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite Kaiseki cuisine in the heart of Gion.
JPY12000, 2h

Day 6: Kyoto Temples & Gardens

Kyoto, Japan on October 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Bibliotic Hello!

Enjoy a cozy breakfast in this stylish café with a book-filled interior, opening at 8am.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore iconic thousands of vermilion torii gates leading up the mountain, open 24 hours with no entry fee.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Vermillion - cafe

Light lunch and coffee in a cafe near Fushimi Inari, serving delightful sandwiches and desserts.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple

Walk through the enchanting bamboo forest and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Tenryu-ji temple with its stunning gardens.
Tenryu-ji Entrance JPY500, 2h

4:00pm

Explore Togetsukyo Bridge area

Relax and enjoy scenic views along the Katsura River, especially lovely during autumn.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Yudofu Sagano

Experience traditional yudofu (tofu hot pot) cuisine, a Kyoto specialty, in a peaceful setting.
JPY3500, 1h30m

Day 7: Cultural Kyoto & Tea Ceremony

Kyoto, Japan on October 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Begin your day with premium coffee and pastries in a minimalist setting.
JPY1000, 1h

9:00am

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Tour the elegant gardens and historic temple noted for its simple yet refined beauty, entrance fee 500 JPY.
JPY500, 1h30m

11:00am

Walk the Philosopher's Path

Scenic stone path lined with trees and small temples, ideal for contemplative strolls and seasonal foliage.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Okutan Kiyomizu

Enjoy traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine near Kiyomizu Temple, specializing in tofu dishes.
JPY2500, 1h

2:00pm

Participate in a Traditional Tea Ceremony

Experience an authentic Japanese tea ceremony at Camellia Garden in a tranquil setting, book in advance.
JPY3500, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Nijo Castle

Explore the historic castle with stunning gardens and nightingale floors, open 8:45am-5pm (last entry 4pm).
JPY1000, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine along the atmospheric Pontocho alley offering a wide variety of restaurants and traditional vibes.
Varies around JPY4000, 1h30m

Day 8: Explore Kyoto to Osaka

Kyoto to Osaka, Japan on November 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee Kyoto

Classic Kyoto-style café breakfast with freshly brewed coffee and toast.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Admire the famous golden covered temple and gardens, a must-see in autumn, open 9am-5pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Train to Osaka

Travel from Kyoto to Osaka by JR train in approximately 30 mins, very frequent service.
JPY560, 30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Dotonbori Street

Explore the vibrant Dotonbori area famous for street food like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and more.
Around JPY1000-1500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Osaka Castle

Tour Osaka Castle and its park, an iconic landmark surrounded by autumn leaves, open 9am-5pm.
JPY600, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Umeda Sky Building

Visit the Floating Garden Observatory for panoramic city views, open 10am-10:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Kushikatsu Daruma Shinsekai

Try Osaka’s famous deep-fried skewers (kushikatsu) in a lively district known for nightlife.
JPY3000, 1h30m

Day 9: Osaka City Exploration

Osaka, Japan on November 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at LiLo Coffee Roasters

Start the day with excellent coffee and light breakfast options in a trendy café.
JPY800, 1h

9:30am

Visit Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Experience one of Japan's oldest shrines with unique straight-roofed architecture, open all day, free entry.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Explore Tennoji Park & Zoo

Visit the park and zoo for a relaxing half-day activity close to central Osaka, opens 9:30am-5pm.
JPY500, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Tsurutontan Udon Noodle Brasserie

Enjoy deluxe udon noodle dishes in a modern setting in central Osaka, open 11am-11pm.
JPY1500, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Shop and explore Osaka’s premier shopping street full of boutiques and department stores.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M in Hozenji Yokocho

Savor premium Matsusaka beef grilled yakiniku-style in a charming historic alley.
JPY8000, 1h30m

Day 10: Departure from Osaka

Osaka, Japan on November 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a relaxing breakfast at your hotel before checkout.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Explore one of the world's largest aquariums with spectacular marine life, open 10am-8pm.
JPY2500, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Tempozan Marketplace

Enjoy casual dining options featuring local and international cuisine near the aquarium.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Head to Kansai International Airport

Take airport limousine bus or train to Kansai International Airport for your departure flight.
JPY1000-1500, 1h