Japan 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Japan

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo and Exploration of Shinjuku

  • Arrive at Narita or Haneda airport and take a train/bus to your hotel
  • Visit the famous Shibuya Crossing and take a stroll around the Shibuya area
  • Explore the trendy Harajuku district and see the fashionable youth culture
  • Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at a local restaurant

Things to Know:

  • Japan has a unique vending machine culture, with machines that dispense everything from drinks to umbrellas!
  • Tipping is not expected in Japan, but it’s becoming more common in tourist areas.

Transportation:

  • Take the Narita Express (N’EX) or Keisei Skyliner train from the airport to Tokyo Station
  • Use a prepaid IC card like Suica or Pasmo for convenient travel on public transportation

Day 2: Tokyo Landmarks and Pop Culture

  • Visit the famous Tsukiji Fish Market and try some fresh sushi for breakfast
  • Take a stroll through the beautiful Imperial Palace East Garden
  • Explore the colorful streets of Akihabara, Tokyo’s electronics and anime hub
  • Visit the Tokyo Tower or Mori Tower in Roppongi Hills for panoramic views of the city

Activities:

  • Try your hand at making traditional Japanese sweets at a local shop
  • Take a sumo tournament tour (if schedules permit)

Day 3: Nikko World Heritage Sites and Onsen Experience

  • Take a day trip to Nikko, located about two hours away from Tokyo by train
  • Visit the Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu
  • Soak in a relaxing onsen (hot spring) at a local ryokan

Things to Know:

  • Japan has a rich cultural heritage, with many historical sites and landmarks.
  • Onsen etiquette: wash your body thoroughly before entering the hot spring, and avoid tattoos.

Transportation:

  • Take the JR or Tobu Railway train from Tokyo Station to Nikko Station
  • Use a local bus or taxi to get around Nikko

Day 4: Travel to Kyoto and Exploration of Gion

  • Take the bullet train (Shinkansen) from Tokyo to Kyoto
  • Explore the traditional Gion district, famous for its geisha culture
  • Visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks

Activities:

  • Attend a traditional Japanese tea ceremony
  • Take a stroll along the Philosopher’s Path, a scenic walking path lined with cherry blossom trees

Day 5: Kyoto Landmarks and Fushimi Inari Shrine

  • Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates
  • Explore the Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), a Zen temple covered in gold leaf
  • Take a stroll through the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Things to Know:

  • Kyoto is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and shrines.

Transportation:

  • Take the JR train from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station
  • Use a local bus or taxi to get around Kyoto

Day 6: Nara and Osaka Exploration

  • Take a day trip to Nara, located about an hour away from Kyoto by train
  • Visit the Todai-ji Temple, home to the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world
  • Explore the Dotonbori area in Osaka, known for its colorful neon lights and street food

Activities:

  • Feed friendly deer at Nara Park
  • Take a stroll along the Osaka Riverwalk and enjoy the city views

Day 7: Departure from Osaka

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Take the train back to Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Itami Airport (ITM) for your departure flight

Visa Requirements:

  • Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Japan. Check with the Japanese government’s official website for requirements.
  • Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.

Other Things to Know:

  • Japan has a unique culture and customs, so be respectful of local traditions and norms.
  • Learn some basic Japanese phrases, such as “konnichiwa” (hello), “arigatou” (thank you), and “sumimasen” (excuse me).
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak seasons, such as cherry blossom season or Golden Week.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Japan!