Easy 10 day+ Japan Itinerary for FIRST TIMERS!


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Looking to plan an unforgettable vacation to Japan, BUT no idea where to start? We’ve got you! In this easy 10 day Japan itinerary for FIRST TIMERS! We will cover three of Japan’s most iconic cities and their sites: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the traditional temples of Kyoto and the vibrant energy of Osaka, this 10 day Japan itinerary offers a comprehensive glimpse into the diverse urban and rural landscapes and rich culture that define this unique country.

Whether you’re a first timer to Japan or a seasoned traveler, you’ll find our accommodation, day trip and activity suggestions extremely useful.

So, let’s get on with it, and embark on this epic adventure of Japan’s most beloved destinations together!

At a glance: 10 day Japan itinerary for FIRST TIMERS:

TOKYO (Stay a min 4 nights)

>>> Shinkansen Train

KYOTO (Stay a min 3 nights)

>>> Train

OSAKA (Stay a min 2 nights)

>>> Shinkansen Train

TOKYO (1 night)


Tokyo

Your easy 10 Day Japan itinerary (for first timers) starts with Tokyo! Every person who visits Japan, CAN NOT go without visiting the countries capital, Tokyo!

Tokyo is one of the most fascinating cities. Rich in culture and tradition yet feels lightyears ahead in time, welcome to Tokyo!

Tokyo & Japan Rail Cards

Suica or Pasmo Card

Tokyo Metro Pass

JR Pass

Getting a JR Pass rarely works out cheaper anymore. The prices went up later last year, and unless you are taking multiple Shinkansen’s (Bullet Trains) over a short period of time you will probably be better off buying individual tickets for your bullet trains and getting a region train pass.

In particular, in Tokyo, they are not worth activating as they only work on the JR lines, not the Metro or other lines.

Areas to Explore in Tokyo

Tokyo is a HUGE city, and travelling by train from one side to the other can take up to an hour. Because of this, it is a great idea to cluster your sightseeing to areas that surround each other and that are one to two train stations away from each other.

Shibuya:
  • The beating heart of Tokyo.
  • Experience the iconic Shibuya Crossing and watch it from above at the Shibuya Sky observation deck or for a closer view from the iconic Starbucks.
  • Huge shopping, fashion and cafe culture.
  • Shibuya at Night:
  • Drunkards Alley, Shibuya Tokocho
Shibuya Crossing, Blog: Easy 10 day Japan Itinerary for FIRST TIMERS!
Shinjuku:
  • Enjoy panoramic views from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observatories and the nighttime light show. (7.30pm to 9.45pm)
  • Known for being Tokyo’s most vibrant & happening entertainment districts.
  • Known for its Neon lit streets and billboards, in particular the Cat 3D Billboard
  • Shinjuku at Night:
  • Experience Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, Tokyo’s vibrant entertainment and red-light district.
  • Explore the Golden Gai area with its tiny bars and unique atmosphere.
  • Memory Lane (Omoide Yokocho)
Harajuku:
  • Walk along the famous Takeshita Street for trendy fashion boutiques.
  • Visit Meiji Shrine nestled in the serene surroundings of Yoyogi Park.
  • Experience cosplay culture.
  • Enjoy sweet treats at popular cafes and dessert shops.
  • Rooftop garden at Tokyo Plaza

Asakusa:
  • Rich in culture and history.
  • Visit Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most famous temple.
  • Shop at Nakamise-dori for traditional snacks and souvenirs.
  • Take a boat cruise along the Sumida River for views of Tokyo Skytree and Asakusa.
  • Explore the nearby Tokyo Skytree, offering stunning views of the city.
Akihabara:
  • Explore electronic shops like Yodobashi Camera and Sofmap for gadgets and anime merchandise.
  • Visit themed cafes such as maid cafes and Gundam Cafe.
  • Browse through manga and anime shops like Mandarake and Animate.
  • Experience arcades with a wide variety of games and activities.
  • Check out AKB48 Theater for live performances by the popular idol group.
Ginza:
  • Shop at luxury boutiques and department stores like Ginza Six and Matsuya Ginza.
  • Tokyo’s upscale shopping district with luxury boutiques, department stores, and fine dining.
Ueno:
  • Visit Ueno Park and enjoy cherry blossoms in spring and museums year-round.
  • Explore Ueno Zoo, one of Japan’s oldest and home to giant pandas.
  • Wander through Ameyoko Shopping Street for bargains and street food.
  • Visit Tokyo National Museum.
  • Visit Uneo park.

Where to stay in Tokyo

Where to stay in Tokyo for the first time
Best hotels to stay in Tokyo for Families

At a glance, checkout:

Shinjuku Accommodation Suggestions
Shibuya Accommodation Suggestions
Asakusa Accommodation Suggestions

Our TOP recommendations: What to see in Tokyo for first timers:

1. Senso-ji Temple: Located in the Asakusa district, Senso-ji is Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple. You will also find Nakamise Shopping Street close by which is a great place to shop for traditional snacks and souvenirs.

2. Tokyo Skytree (Also close to Senso-ji Temple): Standing as the tallest tower in Japan, Tokyo Skytree offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its observation decks. Visitors can ascend to heights of up to 450 meters and enjoy stunning vistas of Tokyo’s skyline and beyond.

3. Shibuya Crossing: A trip to Tokyo is not complete without a visit to the iconic Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world.

5. Sumo Experience: Learn the rules of sumo and how to practice it, watch demonstrations, and then have a go at wrestling yourself in Asakusa, Tokyo. Enjoy Chanko-nabe (chicken hot pot) prepared by former sumo wrestlers. Find out more about the Sumo Experience

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6. Experience an Onsen: Tokyo offers one of the NEWEST and biggest onsen experiences, and the infinity onsen has spectacular views overlooking Tokyo and Toyosu. Get Tickets to Toyosu Manyo Club

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7. Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea: Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, two of Japan’s most popular theme parks. Here you can experience thrilling rides, captivating shows, and beloved Disney characters in these enchanting wonderlands.

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Unique & Traditional Experiences in Tokyo

Discover more NEW and Traditional things to do in Tokyo.

From Navigating, to Translating or finding the best local eats, this guide will have you travelling Japan with EASE!


Full Day tours from Tokyo:

Lake Kawaguchi – Fuji Five Lakes Region: It offers some of the best views of Mount Fuji and is a popular destination for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and hot spring resorts. You can also visit nearby attractions like the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway or the Chureito Pagoda.

Hakone: Renowned for its onsens, stunning views of Mount Fuji, The Hakone Lake and Tori Gates ove rthe Lake, and the Hakone Open-Air Museum. You can also ride the ropeway up to up to Owakundani and see the Volcanic vents, see the views, and eat anything and everything black, including black eggs that are said to prolong your life by 7 years.

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Kamakura and Enoshima: Combining a visit to Kamakura with nearby Enoshima Island, known for its beachside railway, beaches, shrines, and caves.

TIP: The most cost-effective way to Visit Hakone, Fuji Lakes region or Kamakura is by getting one of the passes below. Each included unlimited transport, activities and discounts.

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Yokohama: Japan’s second-largest city, offering attractions such as the historic Sankeien Garden, Yokohama Chinatown, and the futuristic Minato Mirai district.

Snow Monkeys – Head to Nagano to visit the snow monkeys bathing in hot springs.

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Mt. Takao: A popular hiking destination offering various trails suitable for different fitness levels, as well as panoramic views of Tokyo and Mount Fuji on clear days.

Izu Peninsula: Known for its beautiful coastline, beaches, hot springs, and outdoor activities such as hiking and snorkeling.


Kyoto

Kyoto is the second stop on this 10 day Japan itinerary for FIRST TIMERS and I suggest you stay here for a minimum of 3 nights / days if not longer!

Getting to Kyoto or Osaka from Tokyo

The easiest and most convenient way to get to Kyoto or Osaka from Tokyo is by Shinkansen (Bullet Train): There are several trains departing every hour. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. You can purchase tickets at the ticket counters or ticket machines at the station, or you can reserve tickets online in advance.

Where to stay in Kyoto:

What to see in Kyoto:

  • Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): is a temple covered in gold leaf, set amidst serene gardens and a tranquil pond.
  • Fushimi Inari Taisha: MUST SEE: Wander through the endless pathway’s of thousands of vermillion torii gates that wind up the forested hillsides, leading to stunning viewpoints and shrines.
  • Experience Gion: This is Kyoto’s traditional entertainment district, known for its preserved machiya (wooden townhouses), tea houses, and the chance to spot geisha and maiko.
  • Kiyomizu-dera Temple A UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Nijo Castle: an ornate feudal-era fortress featuring stunning gardens and elaborate interiors
  • Kyoto Imperial Palace: This was once the residence of Japan’s Imperial family.

Day trips from Kyoto:

  • Nara: Nara, renowned for its ancient temples, friendly deer that have learnt to bow, and serene parks. Don’t miss the massive bronze Buddha at Todai-ji Temple and the tranquil beauty of Nara Park.
  • Ine Funaya & Amanohashidate: Amanohashidate is a natural stone bridge connecting the mainland and the island. It is known as one of Japan’s three major landscapes. You can walk on the bridge to enjoy the beautiful scenery, and also have the opportunity to taste local food. Next stop, head to Ine Funaya, one of Kyoto’s best-kept secrets. Egan is a small village famous for its traditional boat house architecture. You can choose to walk or cycle, or take a boat to feed the seagulls and enjoy the coastal scenery and unique architectural style.
  • Arashiyama: Escape to the tranquil beauty of Arashiyama, known for its scenic bamboo grove, historic temples, and picturesque Togetsukyo Bridge. Visit Tenryu-ji Temple, stroll through the bamboo forest, and take a scenic boat ride along the Hozu River.

Discover the TOP 12 things to do in Okinawa and follow our 7-day itinerary for an unforgettable trip!

Did you know Japan has some of the WORLD BEST Beaches and Reefs. Okinawa is a collection of 106 islands at the south of Japan and an incredible place to add to your itinerary.

Osaka

The third stop in this 10 day Japan itinerary for first timers is Osaka. I recommend you stay in Osaka for a minimum of 2 nights / days. (An extra add on could be Hiroshima)

Your complete Osaka Guide plus where to stay in Osaka

Where to stay in Osaka:

When it comes to choosing the best area to stay, in Osaka, one neighborhood stands out is Namba! Namba is a blend of modern convenience and traditional charm. Located in the heart of Osaka’s bustling downtown district, Namba offers an eclectic mix of attractions. From the vibrant shopping streets, and thrifting stores, to the electrifying nightlife, historic temples or mouthwatering street food. Visitors will love the labyrinth of alleys of Dotonbori, and the neon signs that illuminate the city.

Finally, it is also a great location for transportation. It is a central hub that connects to the rest of the city and beyond. Namba serves as the perfect base for exploring all that Osaka has to offer, making it an ideal choice for travelers.

My TOP pics which are all close walking distance to the famous Dotonbori

What to see in Osaka

  • Osaka Castle: Osaka Castle is one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks and a MUST SEE in Osaka.
  • Dotonbori: Experience the lively atmosphere of Dotonbori, Osaka’s bustling entertainment district, renowned for its vibrant neon signs, street food stalls, and the iconic Glico Running Man sign.
Dotonbori: Japan 10 Day itinerary for first timers
  • Shinsaibashi-suji: is one of Osaka’s premier shopping streets, featuring a mix of trendy boutiques, thrifting stores, department stores, and souvenir shops.
  • Kuromon Ichiba Market: Sample Osaka’s renowned street food at Kuromon Ichiba Market, where vendors offer an array of fresh seafood, sushi, takoyaki, and other local delicacies.
  • Universal Studios Japan: Experience exciting rides, immersive themed lands, and encounter your favorite movie characters.
  • Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: One of the largest aquariums in the world, showcasing a diverse array of marine life from around the globe.

Day trips from Osaka

  • Kobe: Famous for its succulent Kobe beef and breathtaking views from Mount Rokko. My personal favourite: Take a self-walking Sake Tour of local Sake breweries of Naha.
  • Hiroshima and Miyajima: While a bit further away, Hiroshima and the nearby island of Miyajima are accessible as day trips from Osaka via shinkansen (bullet train). You can explore the Peace Memorial Park and Museum in Hiroshima, then visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its floating torii gate on Miyajima Island.
Hiroshima Japan 10 Day itinerary for first timers
  • Mount Koya (Koyasan): MUST DO: Embark on a spiritual train journey UP Mount Koya by an epic TRAMWAY carriage. Mount Koya is a sacred mountain and center of Shingon Buddhism with over 100 temples. Visit Okunoin Cemetery, where thousands of tombstones and ancient cedar trees create a mystical atmosphere.
  • Osaka Bay Area: Explore the attractions of Osaka’s Bay Area, including Universal Studios Japan, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, and Tempozan Harbor Village. Ride the Tempozan Ferris Wheel for panoramic views of Osaka Bay and beyond.

If you have any questions, about our 10 day JAPAN itinerary for first timers drop them below in the comments:

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