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Japan<\/a> captured my heart from the moment I first visited. The delicious food, the rich culture, the breathtaking landscapes, the vibrant history, and the very friendly and polite people – it all blew my mind.<\/p>\n But Japan often feels impenetrable, especially to first-time visitors. While I think Japan deserves a minimum of 10 days, I get that some people might only have a week due to work or other commitments, so I wanted to write this seven-day itinerary for Japan for first-time visitors.<\/p>\n With only a week, there’s not much you can see unless you really rush. And I don’t think you should do that. Japan is too special.<\/p>\n So this itinerary only focuses on Tokyo and Kyoto (the two most popular destinations) as well as some day trips from each. If you wanted to rush things a little, you could add in Osaka (more on that at the end).<\/p>\n (Note: If you purchased a Japan Rail Pass<\/a>, activate it on arrival. That way, you can take advantage of the free JR trains throughout the city.)<\/p>\n Tsukiji and Toyosu Fish Markets<\/strong> You can still head to the old market in Tsukiji to eat, shop, and wander as well. I like it a lot because there are more food options! Food and drink tours of the Tsukiji Outer Market<\/a> are available for around 15,000 JPY.<\/p>\n Toyosu Fish Market is open Monday-Saturday 5am-5pm, though most shops don\u2019t open until 7am. Admission is free, but you have to pick up a visitor\u2019s pass when you enter. Tsukiji Fish Market\u2019s hours vary by shop (usually 5am-2pm).<\/p>\n teamLab Planets<\/strong> Take a walking tour<\/strong> The Imperial Palace<\/strong> Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden<\/strong> Depending on how you feel relative to your jetlag, you could fit in a few more activities before you end your day. Check out this post for suggestions<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n In the evening, explore Shibuya and see the crossing<\/strong>. Make sure to visit the dog statue between Shibuya Station and the intersection (at the Hachiko Exit) \u2014 it\u2019s a tribute to Hachiko, the loyal dog who would greet his owner at Shibuya Station on return from his daily commute. This continued until the owner passed away at work in 1925. Hachiko then visited the station daily and waited for his owner until he also passed away nearly a decade later, in 1935. Here you’ll also see the famous Shibuya crossing (head to the Starbucks for a great view overhead view of it). There are a lot of good restaurants in this area too.<\/p>\n Afterward, head to Ueno Park<\/strong>. Spanning over 133 acres, Ueno Park was established in 1873 on land formerly owned by a 17th-century Buddhist temple. It gets super busy in cherry blossom season, as there are over a thousand trees here. Throughout, you’ll find various stalls and vendors selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. On weekends, there are usually cultural events or festivals showcasing traditional arts, music, and dance. Four of Tokyo’s main museums are here:<\/p>\n Afterward, walk down to Akihabara<\/strong> to explore the video game parlors, arcades, and anime shops. This very buzzy area is ground zero for all things electronic, and it’s fun to play many of the games. This is where you’ll find the famous maid caf\u00e9s, where servers dress up as maids and serve you food and drinks. These range from big touristy ones to holes-in-the-wall (the girls on the street are promoting the latter, which are a lot more culturally fun). They aren’t cheap, though, as you have to buy drink packages and pay a fee, but they\u2019re kitschy and fun.<\/p>\n In the evening, visit Shinjuku and then drink in Golden Gai<\/strong>. In Shinjuku, you’ll find a plethora of cool bars, bright lights, and tiny hole-in-the-wall eateries. Be sure to wander down Memory Lane (aka Piss Alley) for tiny izakaya joints and bars. Afterward, head over to Golden Gai, a warren of narrow alleyways with a bit of a red-light-district feel, flanked by diminutive backstreet bars. It’s quite touristy but also a lot of fun. I’ve had some wild nights here!<\/p>\n With Arigato Tours<\/a>, you\u2019ll learn about the neighborhood while stopping to sample Japanese classics like sushi, yakitori, and ramen. The 23,900 JPY cost includes a drink and dishes at four stops. Kamakura<\/strong> Tokyo Disneyland<\/strong> Ticket prices vary depending on the day and time, but full-day admission begins at 7,900 JPY for adults and 4,400-6,200 JPY for children. It’s best to book in advance<\/a>.<\/p>\n Mount Fuji<\/strong> If you don’t want to hike, there are buses that can take you partway up, where you’ll be offered sweeping vistas of the surrounding area. Guided day tours from the city<\/a> cost around 12,000 JPY. The tours also take you around the Hakone area, which is famous for its lakes and hot springs. <\/p>\n Wander the Bamboo Forest<\/strong> While there, I would also recommend visiting the Okochi Sanso Garden, which (along with the home) belonged to the famous Japanese actor Denjir? ?k?chi (1898\u20131962). It’s not free (it\u2019s 1,000 JPY), but it’s really nice and has some wonderful views.<\/p>\n Visit the Golden Pavilion<\/strong> Admire Ryoan-ji Temple<\/strong> There are other temples in the area to check out as well:<\/p>\n Go on a sake brewery tour<\/strong> See the Fushimi Inari Shrine<\/strong> Walk around Higashiyama<\/strong> Visit Kiyomizu-dera<\/strong> Explore Shorin-ji Temple<\/strong> Wander the Nishiki Market<\/strong> To dive deeper into Japanese food culture, you can take a food tour of the market<\/a>. It’s the best way to learn about all the food you’ll see, as well as the market\u2019s history.<\/p>\n Explore Gion<\/strong> To really learn more about this amazing party of town and its past, take a walking tour of Gion<\/a>. You\u2019ll learn a ton and get a lot of context. They cost around 1,800 JPY.<\/p>\n At night, go to the Pontocho Row<\/strong>, a narrow street lined with restaurants, hole-in-the-wall bars, and jazz clubs. It’s one of the more lively areas in Kyoto. Nara was the capital of Japan in the eighth century, so there are lots of buildings and temples here that are upwards of a thousand years old (which is rare in Japan, due to the prevalence of fires and earthquakes, as well as World War II). Some things to do:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ryogoku Kokugikan, Japan\u2019s most famous sumo wrestling arena, hosts tournaments three times each year, in January, May, and September. Tickets sell out quickly, so book online in advance. Prices vary but start around 3,200 JPY for arena seats. You can also check out their morning practice and get a behind the scenes look at how they operate<\/a>. So, if you want to add another city to this itinerary you can follow this breakdown:<\/p>\n Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara are all covered above. As for Osaka, some of my favorite things to see and do:<\/p>\n Take a food tour<\/strong> Osaka Castle<\/strong> Dotonbori<\/strong> Shitennoji Temple<\/strong> <\/p>\n Just make sure you get a Japan Rail Pass<\/a> before you go. While it\u2019s not as cheap as it used to be, it will likely save you time and money!<\/p>\n Book Your Flight<\/strong> Book Your Accommodation<\/strong> Don\u2019t Forget Travel Insurance<\/strong> Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With?<\/strong> Be sure to check out the Japan Rail Pass<\/a> if you\u2019ll be traveling around the country. It comes in 7-, 14-, and 21-day passes and can save you a ton of money!<\/p>\n
\n <\/p>\nJapan Itinerary Day 1: Tokyo<\/h3>\n
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\nWith all the gorgeous shrines, palaces, and temples; unique cocktail bars; and abundant shopping, you could easily spend an entire week in Tokyo<\/a>. But, with only a couple of days, you’ll want to hit the highlights:<\/p>\n
\nCure your jet lag with some food! In 2018, Tokyo\u2019s main fish market moved to Toyosu. It is now twice the size of Tsukiji (the old one), making it the largest such market in the world. Here you can eat fresh sushi for breakfast, just a few feet from where it was hauled in from the sea, while marveling at the chaotic atmosphere.<\/p>\n
\nThis digital art installation is a multi-sensory and immersive experience in which you become part of the artwork, walking barefoot through the four exhibition spaces and gardens as you interact with the installations\u2019 elements in unique ways. It’s really fun! TeamLab generally sells out in advance, so I recommend getting your tickets online ahead of time<\/a>.<\/p>\n
\nWalking tours are a great way to get the lay of the land while connecting with a local guide. I always go on one or two when I arrive somewhere. Tokyo Localized<\/a> offers many free tours, including a classic overview and ones of both the famed Harajuku and Shinjuku neighborhoods. Its Imperial Palace tour would be the most convenient one after teamLab.<\/p>\n
\nFormerly Edo Castle, the Imperial Palace was built in the 15th century, and some of the walls and moats from that time are still in use to this day. When the emperor moved from Kyoto<\/a> to Tokyo in 1869, he took Edo for his new palace and renamed it. While you can\u2019t go inside, it is surrounded by beautiful grounds, a moat, and a park worth wandering through. You can also see the changing-of-the-guard ceremony (though it\u2019s relatively low-key and unassuming). Admission to the grounds is free.<\/p>\n
\nThis park is over 144 acres and is home to some 20,000 trees. Most of the original park was destroyed in World War II but was rebuilt and reopened in 1949. During spring, it is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms. My favorite area is the landscape garden, which has several ponds with bridges and islands. It\u2019s a peaceful oasis away from the urban hustle and bustle.<\/p>\nJapan Itinerary Day 2: Tokyo<\/h3>\n
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\nStart your second day by checking out Asakusa<\/strong>. You can explore the area on a guided walking tour<\/a> or on your own. Go early to avoid the crowds and see the two main temples:<\/p>\n\n
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\n <\/p>\nJapan Itinerary Day 3: Tokyo<\/h3>\n
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\nThere’s a lot to see and do in Tokyo. Like any major city of millions, you could spend months here and never see it all. Heck, even as a tourist, I think you need at least a week but, again, you don’t have that amount of time so what should you do? You have two options: you can visit more things in the city, which I cover here<\/a> and here<\/a> or you could take a day trip somewhere. If you want to take a day trip, here are three suggestions:<\/p>\n
\nHere you can see a 13-meter (43-foot) bronze statue of Buddha that was built in 1252. It was initially constructed within Kotoku-in Temple, but that has since been washed away by several storms, so it now sits in the open air. Admission to enter the temple grounds is 300 JPY, while it\u2019s 20 JPY to go inside the statue. The journey there \u2014 around an hour \u2014 is free with a Japan Rail Pass<\/a>.<\/p>\n
\nI\u2019m a sucker for Disney. You\u2019ll find many of the same classic rides from Disney World here, like Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, The Haunted Mansion, and everyone\u2019s favorite teacup ride, The Mad Tea Party. But there are several unique attractions as well, like Pooh\u2019s Hunny Hunt and Journey to the Center of the Earth.<\/p>\n
\nMount Fuji is located an hour outside of Tokyo. An active stratovolcano (which last erupted in 1708) and covered in snow for almost half of the year, it stands an impressive 3,776 meters (12,389 feet) and provides one of the most iconic views in the country. One of the Three Holy Mountains of Japan, Mount Fuji is both a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a UNESCO Cultural Site. In the summer, the mountain is open to hikers, who take 5-12 hours to reach the summit (traditionally, they depart at night to arrive at the top for the sunrise).<\/p>\n
\n <\/p>\n <\/div>\nJapan Itinerary Day 4: Kyoto<\/h3>\n
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\nHome to 1.5 million people and nestled in the mountains, Kyoto is one of the most beautiful cities in Japan. It\u2019s filled with traditional-style buildings, bamboo forests, countless Zen gardens, and ancient Buddhist and Shinto temples<\/a>. It’s best to divide the city into half, as attractions are sort of clumped together and getting across town takes a long time. Today, you should do the western half:<\/p>\n
\nFor a relaxing break, head to Arashiyama and let the dense and towering stands of bamboo envelop you. Located near the famous Tenryu-ji temple, it\u2019s one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. It\u2019s not that big, but there are some hidden areas to explore. Just make sure to arrive early if you want to enjoy it without the crowds (it fills up fast after sunrise).<\/p>\n
\nOriginally built in the late 14th century as a retirement villa for the shogun (military governor), this iconic structure was later converted into a Zen Buddhist temple. The present-day edifice dates only to the 1950s, however, when a monk attempting to kill himself burned the historic original to the ground. The rebuilt temple is covered in brilliant gold leaf, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. Each of the three stories exhibits a different architectural style. Completing the scene are the serene reflecting pool and traditional Japanese gardens that contain lush foliage, manicured trees, and scenic walking paths.<\/p>\n
\nThis is my favorite temple in Kyoto. Originally established in 1450 as a residence for a high-ranking samurai, it was soon converted into a Zen temple and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a mausoleum that houses the remains of seven emperors. Its traditional rock and sand garden is considered one of the best in the country. There\u2019s also a teahouse where you can experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu<\/em>) as you overlook the Kyoyochi reflecting pool.<\/p>\n\n
\nKyoto has a sake (rice wine) brewing tradition going back 400 years and is known for some of the best in the world, due to using the area\u2019s pure natural spring water in the brewing process. Arigato Tours<\/a> offers an excellent three-hour tour of Fushimi (the brewing district) for 23,320 JPY, including stops at several breweries, a guided tour of the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, and tastings.
\n <\/p>\nJapan Itinerary Day 5: Kyoto<\/h3>\n
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\nToday, you’ll do the eastern part of town:<\/p>\n
\nThis mountainside Shinto shrine, dating back to 711, is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and prosperity. It\u2019s known for its thousands of vibrant orange torii<\/em> gates that form a network of trails leading up Mount Inari. You can hike the trails on your own while enjoying panoramic views of Kyoto below or join a guided hiking tour<\/a>, on which you\u2019ll get off the paved paths and into hidden bamboo groves. Get here as early as possible to avoid the crowds.<\/p>\n
\nSpend an afternoon walking along the narrow streets of one of the oldest and best preserved districts on your own or on a walking tour<\/a>. The traditional machiya<\/em> buildings (traditional wooden townhouses) are filled with small shops selling local specialties and handicrafts, as well as restaurants and teahouses. It\u2019s a popular area in which to participate in a tea ceremony<\/a>. Another nice place to stroll in this neighborhood is the Philosopher\u2019s Path, which follows a cherry-tree-lined canal that\u2019s beautiful and meditative even when the blossoms aren\u2019t in season.<\/p>\n
\nOne of a number of UNESCO sites in ancient Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera (meaning \u201cpure water temple\u201d) is located in the foothills of Mount Otowa in the eastern part of the city. It’s one of the most famous temples in all of Japan. It was established in 778, but most of the existing buildings date to the 17th century. There’s not a single nail used in the construction, which becomes all the more impressive once you see how large the temple is, which is best known for its wooden terrace that juts out over the hillside. The temple’s name comes from the nearby waterfall whose waters (from which you can still drink today) are said to have wish-granting and healing powers.<\/p>\n
\nThis small temple dates back to the 16th century. What makes it worth visiting is its meditation classes. You’ll get to tour the temple and then be instructed in zazen<\/em>, the Japanese style of meditation. It’s a very unique experience and something that I think will add a lot of depth and nuance to your visit (especially if you’ve seen a lot of temples). Just make sure to dress comfortably.<\/p>\n
\nNishiki Ichiba is now one of the biggest indoor markets in town. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” and spanning over five blocks, it is full of vendors selling traditional dishes from the region, classic Kyoto souvenirs, and really just about anything else. There are over a hundred stalls here, many of which have been in the same family for generations. Opening hours depend on the shop but are typically from 9am to 6pm.<\/p>\n
\nGion, the historic geisha district, is renowned as being one of the most iconic and atmospheric areas of town. It\u2019s known for its traditional wooden machiya<\/em> houses, narrow alleyways, cobblestone streets, and preservation of geisha (known locally as geiko) culture. Lining the main street are ochayas<\/em> (teahouses where geishas entertain), small shops, and many restaurants, ranging from upscale kaiseki<\/em> restaurants serving traditional Kyoto cuisine to casual eateries.<\/p>\n
\n <\/p>\nJapan Itinerary Day 6: Nara<\/h3>\n
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\nMany travelers visit Nara on a day trip from Kyoto. While that\u2019s perfectly fine, I recommend spending a night. After the tourists head back to the big city in the late afternoon, you\u2019ll see this small, charming destination empty out and feel like you have it a bit to yourself, along with the locals.<\/p>\n\n
Japan Itinerary Day 7: Tokyo<\/h3>\n
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\nIt’s time to wrap things up and head back to Tokyo for your flight home (or onward). If you have more time to spend, this post here will list tons of things to see and do on your last<\/a>. However, one thing I would really recommend trying to do is watch a Sumo match<\/strong>.<\/p>\n
\n <\/p>\nAn Alternative Itinerary<\/h3>\n
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The above itinerary, while fast, isn’t rushed. It does fit a lot in but at a pace that is slower than a lot of visitors prefer. While I always suggest traveling slowly and focusing on quality over quantity, some people prefer to cram more into their trip.<\/p>\n\n
\nKnown as \u201cthe Kitchen of Japan,” Osaka boasts a diverse culinary scene. Mouthwatering sushi and sashimi, Kobe beef and Japanese BBQ, and flavorful ramen can all be found here in abundance. Plus, there are local specialties like okonomiyaki<\/em> (a savory pancake with egg and vegetables) and kushikatsu<\/em> (kebab skewers). You can take a food tour<\/a> for around 13,000 JPY, a ramen and gyoza cooking class<\/a> for 9,500 JPY, or just wander and eat.<\/p>\n
\nOne of the most famous landmarks in the country, the castle was originally built in the late 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and played a pivotal role in the unification of Japan during the Sengoku period (1467-1615). Over the centuries, it has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times due to wars, fires, and natural disasters. The current version dates to 1931. The castle is situated amid sprawling grounds and surrounded by a moat. It\u2019s also home to a small but insightful museum and an observation deck that offers some picturesque urban views.<\/p>\n
\nThis is arguably Osaka’s most iconic district, known for its vibrant nightlife (bars, clubs, theaters, and music venues), colorful signage, and delicious food. It\u2019s best seen at night due to the plethora of huge neon lights and signs lining both the canal and streets, which have become symbols of Osaka\u2019s nightlife. A guided walking tour<\/a> that includes Dotonbori as well as adjacent neighborhoods costs 6,500 JPY.<\/p>\n
\nThis temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, founded in 593. The architecture is a blend of traditional Japanese and East Asian styles, featuring impressive pagodas, gates, and shrines set amid serene gardens. Stroll through the tranquil grounds, admire the beautiful architecture, and learn about the temple\u2019s historical and cultural significance at the museum. The temple is 300 JPY to enter, the garden is 300 JPY, and the museum is 500 JPY.
\n <\/p>\n <\/div>\n\nBook Your Trip to Japan: Logistical Tips and Tricks<\/h4>\n
\nFind a cheap flight by using Skyscanner<\/a>. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned!<\/p>\n
\nYou can book your hostel with Hostelworld<\/a> as they have the most comprehensive inventory so they are best for booking a hostel. If you want to stay in a hotel or guesthouse in Japan, use Booking.com<\/a> as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.<\/p>\n
\nTravel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It\u2019s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I\u2019ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:<\/p>\n\n
\nCheck out my resource page<\/a> for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel \u2014 and I think they will help you too!<\/p>\n