10 Day Japan Itinerary For First Timers

Most first timers in Japan choose to explore the famous “Golden Route” on their journey. They commonly follow a 10 to 15 day Japan itinerary covering Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.

Building an itinerary is hands down one of the most exciting parts of going on a trip. But when it comes to the Land of The Rising Sun, the endless attractions, experiences and places to see there, can quickly make you feel overwhelmed, especially if you are a first time visitor.

There are a multitude of ways to create a Japan itinerary where you can enjoy the most important highlights of the country, if not all. However, for a first timer, the easiest, and least intimidating route to follow involves the three major cities – Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. Compare options for multi city travel itineraries to find out the best routes and things to do, and then book cheap flights to Tokyo or Kyoto.

To experience the best of Japan, you typically need a minimum of 7 to 10 days throughout which you can cover some of the most prominent attractions across these three cities with ease. Some of the most recommended best places to visit in Japan for first timers such as Tokyo Skytree, Shibuya Crossing, and Akihabara are here.

If you are planning to book Japan tour packages this year, here is a foolproof 10-day Japan itinerary that you can use to plan your trip.

10-Day Japan Itinerary For First Timers
Wrapping Up: The Ultimate Japan Itinerary For First Timers
Frequently Asked Questions – The Perfect 10 Day Japan Itinerary For First Timers
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10-Day Japan Itinerary For First Timers

Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka are three of Japan’s major cities, each with its own bustle, charm and stunning attractions. Located just a few hours away from each other and with exceptional connectivity, these three cities can be visited in any order, depending on where you choose to stay or fly in to. Because they are the easiest to navigate and cover, this route is often called the “Golden Triangle” or the “Classic Loop” as well.

This Japan itinerary starts and ends with Tokyo, as it is the most popularly visited city. You can also avail of excellent rates on cheap flights to Tokyo if you book early enough. Use popular apps for tracking flight prices and getting discounts to get even better deals.

Pro tip: You can get the cheapest deals when booking flights including return tickets going to and from the same destination.

Day 1: Tokyo – Shinjuku, Shibuya

The famous Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo, Japan
Image courtesy: dotmiller1986/Shutterstock

Upon arrival at the bustling capital city of Tokyo, head straight to your accommodation. For the utmost accessibility, it is recommended to book your stay at one of the best hotels in Tokyo, either in the Shinjuku or Shibuya regions. Both places offer exciting nightlife along with a mix of temples, parks, and cultural richness.

Once you have freshened up and settled in, dive into your activities for the day. Here’s what you can do:

Explore Shinjuku and head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for free panoramic views of the city
Visit the Meiji Jingu Shrine for a tranquil cultural exploration. Walk through the famous Shinjuku Gyoen National Gardens on the way and try to sit a while and meditate.
Explore Takeshita street known for lots of crepe shops, cafes and more
Visit the world-famous Shibuya crossing, soak up the views from Shibuya Sky as well
Explore the streets and shop at the malls and stores in Shibuya
Have dinner at one of the many homely restaurants selling authentic Japanese food at Omoide Yokocho

Day 2: Tokyo – Asakusa

Nakamise Dori - shopping street in Osaka — Nakamise Dori – shopping street in Osaka
Image courtesy: JWCohen/Shutterstock

The second day of your Japan itinerary covers the hip and happening Asakusa area in Tokyo.

Visit the Senso-Ji temple – one of the oldest buddhist temples in Tokyo
Head to Tokyo Skytree for more panoramic views of the city. You can also consider booking your slot for the golden hours in the evening for more dramatic views
For lunch, explore the lively Happy Street for tasteful little restaurants
Later, explore Nakamise Dori – a busy street filled with endearing souvenir shops and stalls selling snacks
Spend the rest of the evening at Japan’s electric town – Akihabara and splurge on anime goods, maid cafes and arcade games
After having dinner, head back to Shinjuku and explore the nightlife there; you will find many mini bars, karaoke bars and even baseball facilities if you’d like to try.

Day 3: Mount Fuji

View of Mount Fuji, Japan
Image courtesy: Puripat Lertpunyaroj/Shutterstock

On day 3 of your Japan itinerary, you are set to take a scenic escape to the stunning Mt. Fuji. As one of the most iconic experiences in the country, a 10 day trip to Japan would be incomplete without visiting this symmetrical wonder.

Start your day early; take the train or the bus to travel to the Mt. Fuji area World Heritage Site. It will take you a little less than two hours to get there from Shinjuku.
Enjoy the views, click pictures, and soak up the serenity while you’re there.
Visit Lake Kawaguchi
Stop by Chureito Pagoda
Head back to Shinjuku and end the day with dinner

Also Read: Top Things to Do in Japan For First Time Visitors

Day 4: Kyoto

Higashiyama District in Kyoto, Japan
Image courtesy: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

The fourth day of your Japan travel itinerary involves your first core city transfer: get ready to travel to Kyoto.

Start early and catch the bullet train, known as Shinkansen to Kyoto city. Make sure to book your travel in advance, and to arrive at least an hour before time, so that you can navigate the station easily.
You will arrive in a little over two hours; once you do, head to your accommodation at one of the best hotels in Kyoto to freshen up.
Afterwards, set out to explore the famous Gion district – the city’s historic geisha district best known for its preserved machiya merchant houses, wooden teahouses or Ochaya, and kimono clad maiko.
Take a peaceful walk along the Hanamikoji Street
End your day with a nice dinner

Day 5: Kyoto – Fushimi Inari + Arashiyama

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto, Japan
Image courtesy: RuslanKphoto/Shutterstock

The fifth day of your Japan itinerary includes visiting the most famous landmark in Kyoto – the Fushimi Inari Taisha.

Start your day early, and take the Japan Rail Nara line to visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine. Take your time to explore the premises, the many secluded sub-shrines, the fox statues and the 10,000+ vermilion tori gates. If it’s possible, consider hiking up the 4 Km trail to the summit of Mount Inari, for breathtaking city views.
In the afternoon, visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Later, explore the Tenryu-ji Temple as well – it houses one of the finest examples of traditional garden design.
End your day with dinner and a walk through the local neighborhoods if you have the energy.

Day 6: Kyoto – Higashiyama Ward And Nishiki Market

Fushimi Momoyama Castle in Kyoto, Japan
Image courtesy: cowardlion/Shutterstock

On day 6, you will be visiting some of the most picturesque and culture-rich places in the city.

Start by exploring the rest of the famous Higashiyama Ward – take your time to see and admire more traditional wooden buildings, quaint and pretty tea houses, and ancient temples.
Continue on the same route to visit the Kodaiji Temple – known for its extensive gardens, stunning architecture, and the famous Fushimi Castle.
Next, head to the Yasaka shrine and Maruyama Park – here you can admire the lovely temple with the lanterns hanging from its roof line, relax, and take a short ice cream break at Maruyama park.
If you are visiting during the spring season, take a detour and head to the Philosopher’s Path – here you will find a quiet pathway along a canal lined with the most gorgeous cherry blossom trees in full bloom. You can also try some of the cafes and restaurants nearby, and visit some of the temples on the way if you have time, such as the Okunoin Temple, and Nanzen-ji.
From there, take another detour to the Nishiki market – a colossal indoor market with hundreds of food stalls. Try some of the snacks or even have your meal here.
Last but not least, head to the Pontocho street – a cozy little alley situated alongside a river filled with tasteful restaurants. End your day by having a nice dinner by the riverside.

Day 7: Nara And Osaka

Deer sightings at Nara Park in Japan
Image courtesy: badbatsumaru/Shutterstock

Day 7 of your Japan itinerary involves your next inter-city travel. Hence, start your day early so that you can enjoy and move at a relaxing pace.

First, take an early morning trip to Nara – it will take you only 30 minutes to get there from Kyoto.
Then visit the famous Nara park where you can interact with over 1000 wild deer, roaming about in the natural habitat. You can also buy special crackers to feed them.
Next, visit the Todai-ji Temple which houses the world’s largest wooden building, and an enormous 15-meter tall bronze Buddha statue.
After that, pack up, and board the train to Osaka – you can use the JR Kyoto Line (JR Tokaido Line) to reach Osaka in 30 minutes.
Once you reach Osaka, freshen up, take some rest at one of the best hotels in Osaka and set out to explore the famous Dotonbori district – here you will find dazzling neon lit streets, restaurants, food stalls, entertainment centers, and more including the iconic Glico Running Man sign.
Take your time to explore, click pictures, and try some authentic Japanese street food. After all, Osaka is known for being Japan’s kitchen. A 10-day trip to Japan would be incomplete without a gastronomic tour of Osaka.

Also Read: Japan Visa For Indians: Requirements And How to Apply

Day 8: Osaka – Full Day Experience

View of Osaka Castle, Kansai, Osaka
Image courtesy: iamlukyeee/Shutterstock

On day 8, you will be visiting some of the best places in Osaka.

Start your day by visiting the famous Osaka Castle – it is one of Japan’s most important landmarks and features an 8-story traditional building which includes an informative history museum, a stunning observation deck, and a vast garden.
Next, visit the Namba Yasaka Shrine – known for being shaped like a lion’s head.
Afterwards, visit the Shinsekai Tower – this is an area very similar to Dotonbori. In the Shinsekai market you will find many food stalls, souvenir shops, and more. Atop the tower you can also catch panoramic views of Osaka city. Explore the food stalls and have your lunch here.
Once the sun goes down, visit the Teamlab Botanical Garden for a spectacular light show. The place brims with many light exhibits, interactive displays, and projections including large orbs of light that you can even push around. You will need to book in advance for this.
Later, head back to Dotonbori once again and have dinner to end your day.

Day 9: Universal Studios And Tokyo

Universal Studios, Osaka, Japan
Image courtesy: SummerKhaw/Shutterstock

On day 9 of your Japan itinerary is when you have your return to Tokyo scheduled.

Start your day by visiting the must-see Universal Studios. In this world-famous theme park, let go and have the time of your life.
Next, head to Shinsaibashi – Osaka’s premier shopping district. The place is home to an array of trendy fashion brands, high-end brands, local boutiques as well as dining options. Shop and eat here before you head back to your hotel.
Later, take the Shinkansen back to Tokyo. Once you arrive, choose to stay in the Shibuya area.

Day 10: Last Minute Attractions And Departure

TeamLab Borderless Digital Museum, Tokyo
Image courtesy: Picturesque Japan/Shutterstock

On the last leg of your 10 day Japan tour, try to do the things that you may have missed on the first two days.

Start your day early, and head to Teamlab Borderless – an interactive digital art museum with many stunning exhibits to explore.
If you have time, consider visiting Teamlab Planets as well for more modern digital art work.
Pay a quick visit to Ghibli museum and learn all about Japan’s beloved anime world.
Have lunch, do some last minute shopping around the city and get ready to head back home
Check out from your hotel, and board your flight.

Also Read: How Japan’s Human Refrigerator Could Transform Summer Tourism

Wrapping Up: The Ultimate Japan Itinerary For First Timers

While Japan brims with exciting cultural experiences, stunning natural vistas, futuristic marvels as well as historic gems that can hardly be covered in a short time, 10 days in Japan can indeed help you explore the most prominent attractions. Use this curated 10-day Japan itinerary for first timers to navigate your way through the Land of The Rising Sun a little more easily. Don’t forget to stay open and welcome a few off-itinerary experiences as well.

Before you book your flight tickets online, make sure to secure your Japan visa with a reliable provider of online visa services for 180+ countries for a hassle-free journey.

Frequently Asked Questions – The Perfect 10 Day Japan Itinerary For First Timers

Is 10 days in Japan enough for the first time?

Yes, 10 days is generally considered enough time for first timers to visit and explore some of the core attractions of Japan. Most travellers choose to cover the Golden Triangle or the Classic Loop when visiting for the first time. It includes Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.

What is a good itinerary for 10 days in Japan?

A rough 10-day Japan itinerary to follow can be:

Days 1 and 2: Tokyo, day 3: Mt. Fuji, days 4, 5 and 6: Kyoto, day 7: Nara and Osaka, day 8: Osaka, day 9: Osaka and Tokyo, day 10: Tokyo + departure.

How much will it cost for a 10 day trip to Japan from India?

A 10-day trip to Japan from India can cost you anywhere from Rs. 2,50,000 to Rs. 3,50,000, depending on the kind of accommodation and activities you choose.

Is Kyoto or Tokyo better?

Kyoto and Tokyo are two of Japan’s most important cities, each with its own charm and tourist attractions. While Kyoto is the perfect destination to experience Japan’s traditional side, Tokyo showcases the modern and bustling side. Neither can be considered better than the other, as both experiences are important to know more about Japan.

Which part of Japan to visit for first timers?

For first timers in Japan, the Golden Route or the Golden Triangle, which includes Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, is recommended to be the best part to visit. These places offer an ideal introduction to the country, with a good mix of modern, traditional as well as culinary experiences.

Is Japan visa free for Indians?

No, Japan is not visa-free for Indians. A valid Japan visa is required for Indian nationals to travel to Japan.

What is the Golden Week in Japan?

The Golden Week is one of Japan’s major week-long holiday periods. It runs from late April to early May and involves four core national holidays clustering together. It is one of the busiest times in Japan and hence attracts a high-demand for flights, hotels, and trains.

Which city is the prettiest in Japan?

Kyoto is often considered to be the prettiest city in Japan. It preserves Japan’s traditional side with several historic temples, wooden tea houses and old-world neighborhoods remaining intact even now.

What is a must-eat local food in Japan?

A few must-eat local foods in Japan are sushi and sashimi, okonomiyaki, shabu shabu, takoyaki, yakitori and tempura.

How much bank balance is required for Japan tourist visa from India?

There there is no specific bank balance requirement for a Japan tourist visa from India. However, it is advisable to maintain Rs. 3 lakhs to Rs. 5 lakhs in preparation for the trip. This is so that you can meet your daily expenses, flights and hotels for a short solo trip of 7 to 10 days.

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