Ultimate 15-Day Journey Through Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, Japan

Day 1: Tokyo Arrival

Tokyo, Japan on June 21, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Explore the famous Tsukiji Outer Market known for its fresh seafood and street food stalls, offering a delicious start with sushi or grilled fish.
JPY2000, 1h30m

11:00am

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Discover Tokyo’s oldest temple in Asakusa, admire the vibrant Nakamise shopping street, and soak in traditional culture.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Asakusa Imahan

Enjoy sukiyaki or shabu-shabu at this well-known restaurant specializing in premium Wagyu beef close to Senso-ji.
JPY4000, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Ueno Park and Museums

Visit Ueno Park to see its museums (Tokyo National Museum and National Museum of Western Art) and enjoy the park’s nature and ponds.
JPY620 for museums or free for park, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner in Akihabara

Experience the vibrant Akihabara district with dinner at a themed cafe or a local izakaya serving delicious Japanese pub food.
JPY3000, 2h

Day 2: Tokyo Modern

Tokyo, Japan on June 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bills Omotesando

Start your day with fluffy ricotta hotcakes or fresh fruit plate at the popular Australian breakfast restaurant in a stylish area.
JPY1500, 1h

10:00am

Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park

Visit the serene Meiji Shrine set within Yoyogi Park, a peaceful green getaway in busy Tokyo and significant cultural site.
Free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Walk and Shop in Harajuku

Explore the trendy Takeshita Street with quirky fashion boutiques, crepe stands, and youth culture hotspots.
Free, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Afuri Ramen

Savor the signature yuzu-flavored ramen, a refreshing twist that’s very popular in Tokyo.
JPY1200, 45m

3:00pm

Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue

Experience the iconic scramble crossing and visit the nearby Hachiko statue, a symbol of loyalty and one of Tokyo’s famous landmarks.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Shop and Explore Shibuya

Visit shopping centers like Shibuya 109 and browse countless stores, cafes, and entertainment venues.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka

Fun conveyor belt sushi experience offering quick, affordable, and fresh sushi.
JPY2000, 1h

Day 3: Tokyo to Kyoto

Tokyo, Japan to Kyoto, Japan on June 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local cafe

Enjoy a light breakfast before taking the Shinkansen to Kyoto.
JPY1000, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Kyoto on Shinkansen

Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station, approx. 2h15m ride offering scenic views.
JPY14000, 2h15m

11:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the iconic thousands of red torii gates winding up the mountain at one of Kyoto’s most famous shrines.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Vermillion - espresso bar & info

Nearby vibrant cafe offering excellent coffee, light meals, and a great vantage of Fushimi Inari surroundings.
JPY1500, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Tofukuji Temple

Visit this Zen temple known for its beautiful gardens and peaceful ambiance.
JPY400, 1h30m

4:30pm

Check-in and rest at Kyoto hotel

Refresh at your hotel after arrival and afternoon touring.
Variable, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Sushi

Enjoy fresh sushi in Kyoto’s historic Gion district, famed for authentic Japanese dining experiences.
JPY3000, 1h30m

Day 4: Kyoto Temples

Kyoto, Japan on June 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Relax at a classic Kyoto coffee shop known for good drip coffee and breakfast sets.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the stunning Golden Pavilion, a top Kyoto attraction with its gold-leaf covered exterior reflecting on the pond.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Ryoan-ji Temple

See the famous rock garden and experience the Zen atmosphere at this tranquil temple nearby Kinkaku-ji.
JPY500, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Try Kyoto style udon noodles with fresh seasonal vegetables in a traditional setting near Kodai-ji Temple.
JPY1800, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Higashiyama District

Stroll through traditional streets lined with shops, teahouses, and historic sites including Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
JPY400 for Kiyomizu-dera, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Taste Kyoto cuisine at one of the many restaurants in this atmospheric alley along the Kamogawa River, known for nightlife and food.
JPY3500, 2h

Day 5: Kyoto Culture

Kyoto, Japan on June 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kyotographie Cafe

Start your day with artisan coffee and pastries in a modern setting celebrating Kyoto’s art scene.
JPY1200, 1h

9:00am

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the iconic bamboo forest and enjoy the scenic beauty of Arashiyama, including nearby temples and the Togetsukyo Bridge.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Have soba noodles with a beautiful view of the river, serving traditional and fresh ingredients.
JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Saga Toriimoto Preserved Street

Explore this quiet historic street with traditional merchant houses and artisan shops.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site with its renowned landscaped garden and peaceful setting.
JPY500, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Kyoto Center

Travel back to central Kyoto by train or bus for evening plans.
JPY500, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Nishiki Market Food Stalls

Sample a variety of Kyoto delicacies including yuba, pickled vegetables, and fresh seafood at the bustling Nishiki Market.
JPY2500, 2h

Day 6: Kyoto to Osaka

Kyoto to Osaka, Japan on June 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local cafe

Enjoy a light breakfast before traveling to Osaka.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Travel to Osaka by train

Take the JR Special Rapid Service or Shinkansen from Kyoto Station to Osaka Station, approx. 30 minutes.
JPY600, 30m

10:30am

Check-in and store luggage at Osaka hotel

Settle in your hotel in central Osaka.
Variable, 1h

11:30am

Visit Osaka Castle

Tour Osaka’s iconic castle with its museum inside featuring history exhibits and panoramic city views from the top floor.
JPY600, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Tenkaippin Ramen

Try Osaka’s famous rich and thick ramen soup in this popular local chain.
JPY1000, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

Walk through Osaka’s premier shopping district filled with boutiques, department stores, and cafes.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dotonbori Riverside Walk

Enjoy neon-lit streets, iconic Glico Man sign, and take photos in this lively entertainment area.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Kani Doraku Dotonbori

Savor fresh crab dishes at this famous restaurant known for its giant moving crab sign.
JPY4000, 1h30m

Day 7: Osaka Food Day

Osaka, Japan on June 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at LiLo Coffee Roasters

Enjoy specialty coffee and light pastries to start your day right.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kuromon Ichiba Market

Walk through this lively market known for fresh seafood, fruits, and street food in central Osaka.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Mizuno Okonomiyaki

Try the famous Osaka-style savory pancake (okonomiyaki), cooked fresh in front of you.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Explore one of the world’s largest aquariums featuring Pacific Rim sea life including whale sharks, tuna, and penguins.
JPY2400, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Tempozan Harbor Village

Enjoy shopping, a giant ferris wheel ride, and waterfront views nearby the aquarium.
JPY800 for ferris wheel, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Dotonbori Street Food Stalls

Sample takoyaki, kushikatsu, and more at street food stalls lining the bustling Dotonbori area.
JPY2500, 2h

Day 8: Day Trip to Nara

Osaka to Nara, Japan on June 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Simple breakfast to prepare for the day trip to Nara.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Nara

Take the JR Yamatoji Line or Kintetsu Railway to Nara, approximately 45 minutes journey.
JPY800, 45m

10:00am

Visit Todai-ji Temple

See the massive Great Buddha and explore this UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple.
JPY600, 1h30m

11:45am

Nara Park

Walk through the famous park where deer roam freely; feed and interact with them.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Nakatanidou

Taste fresh mochi prepared in front of you at this famed local sweet shop famed for yomogi mochi.
JPY800, 45m

2:00pm

Visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Explore the striking pathways and stone lanterns of this important Shinto shrine near Nara Park.
JPY500, 1h

3:30pm

Walk through Naramachi

Stroll this preserved old merchant district with traditional houses, shops, and cafes.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Osaka

Travel back to Osaka to unwind after your day trip.
JPY800, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Tsurutontan Udon Noodle Brasserie

End the day with high-end udon noodles served in a stylish ambiance in Osaka.
JPY3000, 1h30m

Day 9: Osaka to Tokyo

Osaka to Tokyo, Japan on June 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a nourishing breakfast before departure.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Travel back to Tokyo by Shinkansen

Take the fastest JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka to Tokyo Station, approximately 2h30m ride.
JPY14000, 2h30m

12:00pm

Check in and relax at Tokyo hotel

Settle into your next accommodation in central Tokyo.
Variable, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at Gonpachi Nishiazabu

Dine at 'Kill Bill' movie-inspired restaurant offering classic Japanese dishes.
JPY3000, 1h30m

3:30pm

Visit Roppongi Hills and Mori Art Museum

Explore modern art exhibits and enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo from the observation deck.
JPY2000, 2h

6:00pm

Walk through Tokyo Midtown

Shopping and cafes in a stylish urban complex nearby Roppongi.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Nabezo Shinjuku 3 Chome

Enjoy premium shabu-shabu or sukiyaki in a comfortable Shinjuku setting.
JPY4000, 2h

Day 10: Tokyo Old & New

Tokyo, Japan on June 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sarabeth’s Lumine Shinjuku

Taste American-style breakfast with Japanese precision and fresh ingredients.
JPY1500, 1h

9:30am

Visit Imperial Palace East Gardens

Walk the beautiful gardens of the Imperial Palace with historical ruins and seasonal flowers.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Marunouchi Building

Choose from diverse dining options in a sophisticated area near Tokyo Station.
JPY2000, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Ginza Shopping District

Discover upscale shopping, galleries, and cafes in one of Tokyo’s most prestigious neighborhoods.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Visit teamLab Planets TOKYO

Experience an interactive digital art museum offering a unique immersive environment.
JPY3200, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Sushi Zanmai

Feast on fresh and affordable sushi with a lively atmosphere in Tsukiji.
JPY3000, 1h30m

Day 11: Day Trip Hakone

Tokyo to Hakone, Japan on July 1, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Have an early breakfast to prepare for a full-day trip.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Hakone by Romancecar train

Take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto, approximately 1h30m ride.
JPY2300, 1h30m

10:00am

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Explore diverse contemporary sculptures in a beautiful outdoor setting surrounded by mountains.
JPY1600, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Café de L'Ambre

Enjoy light meals and coffee at an atmospheric cafe famous for its blends.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Lake Ashi Boat Cruise and Mt. Fuji Views

Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Ashi with views of Mt. Fuji on a clear day.
JPY1000, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Hakone Shrine

Enjoy a peaceful visit to the shrine hidden in the forest near the lake shore.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Travel back to Tokyo using the Romancecar train.
JPY2300, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Torigin Shinjuku

Enjoy yakitori and traditional grilled chicken dishes in a cozy Shinjuku favorite spot.
JPY3000, 1h30m

Day 12: Tokyo Culture

Tokyo, Japan on July 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Kitsune

Begin your day with French-Japanese fusion in a stylish cafe serving great coffee and pastries.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Edo-Tokyo Museum

Learn about Tokyo’s history and culture through interactive exhibits and life-sized models.
JPY600, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Monzen Nakacho Izakaya

Enjoy authentic izakaya fare in a lively local neighborhood popular with Tokyoites.
JPY2000, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Ryogoku, sumo district

Explore sumo culture with a visit to Sumida Hokusai Museum and possibly watch sumo practice if available.
Free or minor fees for museums, 2h

4:00pm

Stroll Sumida River and Tokyo Skytree

Walk along the river and visit the observation deck of the Tokyo Skytree for city views.
JPY2100 for Skytree, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Tempura Tsunahachi

Savor expertly fried tempura in a historic and respected Tokyo restaurant near Shinjuku.
JPY3500, 1h30m

Day 13: Free Day Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on July 3, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at local bakery

Try a variety of Japanese and western-style breads and pastries at a neighborhood bakery.
JPY800, 1h

10:30am

Choose your own adventure day

Options include shopping in Shimokitazawa, exploring Odaiba futuristic district, a day at DisneySea or Disneyland, or visiting Koenji for vintage shopping and cafes.
Varies, Flexible

1:00pm

Lunch at chosen area restaurant

Sample local specialties depending on the day’s choice—for example, seafood in Odaiba or cafe meals in Shimokitazawa.
JPY1500, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at your leisure

Select from nearby popular restaurants or try a Michelin-starred spot for a special meal.
JPY3000-10000, 2h

Day 14: Tokyo Last Day

Tokyo, Japan on July 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Market Cafe

Enjoy an early sushi breakfast or traditional Japanese breakfast near Tsukiji fish market.
JPY2500, 1h

9:30am

Visit Oedo-Onsen Monogatari

Relax at this Edo-period themed onsen (hot springs) amusement facility in Odaiba for a cultural bathhouse experience.
JPY2700, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza

Wide selection of eateries including ramen, sushi, and western food with views of the giant Gundam statue.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Explore TeamLab Borderless (if reopened as separate from Planets)

Visit the innovative digital art museum with immersive installations (check current status as reopening differs).
JPY3200, 2h

4:00pm

Shopping in Ikebukuro

Final souvenir shopping in popular district with department stores, anime shops, and cafes.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Dine in the iconic restaurant known as the inspiration of Kill Bill scenes offering traditional Japanese dishes.
JPY4500, 2h

Day 15: Departure Day

Tokyo, Japan on July 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Japan with a relaxed meal at your accommodation.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Check-out and transfer to airport

Depart hotel and make your way to Tokyo Haneda or Narita Airport via airport limousine bus or train.
JPY3000-4000, 1h30m