The Ultimate Japan Itinerary: 10 Days of Culture, Adventure & Hidden Gems

Japan is a country where ancient temples stand beside neon-lit skyscrapers, where tranquil gardens contrast with bustling city streets, and where every meal feels like a culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this detailed 10-day Japan itinerary covers the must-see highlights, off-the-beaten-path gems, and insider tips from my own experience living in Tokyo.

Day 1-3: Tokyo – The Dynamic Capital

Day 1: Arrival & Shinjuku Exploration

Airport Transfer: From Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND), take the Narita Express (N’EX) or Keikyu Line to central Tokyo (~1 hour).
Check-in: Stay in Shinjuku (best for nightlife) or Shibuya (trendy & central).
Evening:
Omoide Yokocho (“Piss Alley”) – Cozy alley with yakitori stalls.
Golden Gai – Tiny bars with unique themes (some are foreigner-friendly).
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building – Free observation deck with skyline views.

Day 2: Shibuya & Harajuku

Shibuya Crossing – Experience the world’s busiest intersection.
Meiji Shrine – A peaceful forest shrine in the middle of the city.
Takeshita Street (Harajuku) – Crazy fashion, giant cotton candy, and crepes.
Shibuya Sky (Book tickets in advance) – Best sunset views over Tokyo.
Dinner in Ebisu – Try Afuri Ramen (yuzu-flavored broth).

Day 3: Asakusa & Akihabara

Senso-ji Temple – Tokyo’s most famous Buddhist temple.
Nakamise Street – Buy traditional snacks like ningyo-yaki (red bean cakes).
Sumida River Cruise (Optional) – Scenic ride to Odaiba.
Akihabara – Anime, gaming, and electronics heaven.
Super Potato – Retro gaming store.
Maid Café (If you’re curious, but research first!).
Evening: Izakaya hopping in Shinbashi (salaryman district).

Day 4-5: Hakone & Mt. Fuji – Hot Springs & Nature

Day 4: Hakone Day Trip (1.5 hrs from Tokyo)

Get the Hakone Free Pass (Covers trains, buses, cable cars, and boat rides).
Hakone Loop:

Hakone Open-Air Museum (Art + mountain views).
Owakudani Valley – Sulfur springs & black eggs (said to add 7 years to your life!).
Lake Ashi Pirate Ship Cruise – Views of Mt. Fuji (weather permitting).
Hakone Shrine – Famous torii gate on the lake.

Stay overnight in a ryokan (Try Yama no Chaya for a luxury onsen experience).

Day 5: Fuji Five Lakes (If Clear Weather)

Chureito Pagoda – Postcard-perfect view of Mt. Fuji.
Oshino Hakkai – Traditional village with crystal-clear ponds.
Return to Tokyo or take a Shinkansen to Kyoto (~2.5 hours).

Day 6-8: Kyoto – Temples, Tea & Tradition

Day 6: Arashiyama & Central Kyoto

Bamboo Forest (Go by 7 AM to avoid crowds).
Tenryu-ji Temple – UNESCO World Heritage Site with a stunning garden.
Monkey Park Iwatayama – Hike to see wild monkeys.
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) – A glittering Zen temple.
Nishiki Market – Try Kyoto specialties like matcha desserts and sushi.

Day 7: Fushimi Inari & Gion

Fushimi Inari Taisha – Hike through thousands of torii gates (go early or late for fewer people).
Gion (Geisha District) – Wander Hanamikoji Street at dusk.
Tea Ceremony Experience (Book in advance at Camellia Flower Tea House).
Pontocho Alley – Atmospheric dining street along the river.

Day 8: Day Trip to Nara

Todai-ji Temple – Houses the world’s largest bronze Buddha.
Nara Park – Feed the famous (and sometimes aggressive) deer.
Kasuga Taisha – A shrine with 3,000 lanterns.
Return to Kyoto for the night.

Day 9-10: Osaka – Foodie Paradise

Day 9: Osaka Highlights

Osaka Castle (Exterior is prettier than the interior).
Kuromon Ichiba Market – Try fugu (pufferfish), crab, and fresh sushi.
Dotonbori at Night – Neon lights, giant crab signs, and street food.
Must-eat: Takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancake), kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).
Umeda Sky Building – Floating Garden Observatory for city views.

Day 10: Universal Studios Japan or Last-Minute Shopping

Super Nintendo World (USJ) – A must for Mario fans (buy Express Pass to skip lines).
Den Den Town – Osaka’s version of Akihabara (anime & electronics).
Depart from Kansai Airport (KIX).

Bonus: Living in Japan – Insider Tips

Transportation

IC Cards (Suica/Pasmo) – Work on trains, buses, and even vending machines.
JR Pass – Worth it if taking multiple Shinkansen trips (buy before arriving in Japan).
Google Maps – Works perfectly for train schedules.

Money & Costs

Cash is still widely used – Withdraw from 7-Eleven ATMs (best for foreigners).
Budget Breakdown (Per Day):
Budget: ¥8,000-12,000 ($60-90) – Hostels, convenience store meals.
Mid-range: ¥15,000-25,000 ($110-180) – Hotels, restaurant meals.
Luxury: ¥30,000+ ($220+) – Ryokans, fine dining.

Cultural Etiquette

No tipping – It’s not a thing in Japan.
Shoes off indoors – Always check before entering homes, temples, and some restaurants.
Quiet trains – No phone calls, loud talking, or eating on local trains.

Best Time to Visit

🌸 Cherry Blossoms (Late March – Early April) – Stunning but crowded.
🍁 Autumn (November) – Kyoto’s foliage is magical.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb) – Great for skiing in Hokkaido or seeing snow monkeys.

Final Thoughts

This 10-day Japan itinerary balances iconic sights, cultural experiences, and local food adventures. Whether you’re marveling at Tokyo’s skyline, soaking in a Hakone hot spring, or wandering Kyoto’s ancient streets, Japan will leave you enchanted.

Have you been to Japan? What was your favorite experience? Share in the comments!

Safe travels! 🇯🇵✈️