Japan blends futuristic cityscapes with centuries-old traditions, creating an unforgettable travel experience. If you have 10 days, this Japan itinerary takes you from the buzzing energy of Tokyo to the peaceful temples of Kyoto. Along the way, you'll experience iconic shrines, Mount Fuji views, Osaka street food, and cultural gems in Nara.

Welcome to Tokyo, Japan's hyper-modern capital that also honors its ancient roots. Once you land at Haneda or Narita Airport, make your way to the city center and check into a hotel in lively Shinjuku or trendy Shibuya. Tokyo can feel overwhelming at first, so ease into it.

Morning to Afternoon:

• Arrive at Haneda or Narita Airport
• Take the airport limousine bus or train to central Tokyo
• Check in to a hotel in Shinjuku or Shibuya

Evening:
Head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. Don’t forget to say hi to the Hachiko Statue nearby, then grab dinner at a cozy izakaya to sample some Japanese small plates and drinks.

Get ready for a day that shows Tokyo’s incredible contrasts. Start with the spiritual atmosphere of Senso-ji Temple, then transition into the electric buzz of Akihabara. It's where ancient and ultra-modern exist side by side.

Morning: 

• Visit Asakusa and the historic Senso-ji Temple
• Stroll Nakamise Shopping Street for snacks and souvenirs

Afternoon:
Explore the neon wonderland of Akihabara, Tokyo’s tech hub and anime heaven. You can shop for gadgets, manga, and even visit a themed cafe. If art is your thing, head to teamLab Planets for an immersive digital art experience.

Evening:
Wrap up the day with a trip up Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower for stunning night views of the vast cityscape.

This day offers a mix of peaceful retreats and vibrant youth culture. Start at Meiji Shrine for a touch of tradition, then dive into the eccentric streets of Harajuku.

Morning:

• Visit Meiji Shrine and walk through Yoyogi Park
• Stroll around Harajuku and Takeshita Street for quirky fashion

Afternoon:

Escape the crowds with a visit to Shinjuku Gyoen, a serene garden perfect for a slow walk or picnic. Afterwards, head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a free panoramic view of the city.

Evening:

• Experience old-school Tokyo nightlife in Omoide Yokocho, where tiny bars serve up delicious yakitori and beer in an alley packed with character.

Time for a change of scenery. Hakone offers hot springs, art museums, and lake cruises — plus, you might catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji.

Morning:

• Take a train to Hakone (via Odakyu or Shinkansen)
• Use the Hakone Free Pass to get around
• Visit Hakone Open-Air Museum

Afternoon:

Cruise on Lake Ashi and ride the Hakone Ropeway for breathtaking views. If the weather’s clear, Fuji will greet you in the distance.

Evening:

Check into a traditional ryokan and unwind in a natural hot spring (onsen). Enjoy a multi-course kaiseki meal served with seasonal ingredients.

Wave goodbye to the peaceful mountains and head to Osaka, Japan’s kitchen. Known for its friendly people and food obsession, Osaka is a whole vibe.

Morning:

• Take the Shinkansen from Hakone/Odawara to Osaka (approx. 2.5 hours)
• Check in to a hotel in Namba or Umeda

Afternoon:

• Visit the iconic Osaka Castle surrounded by a tranquil park. A perfect blend of history and beauty.

Evening:

• Head to Dotonbori — the neon-lit heart of Osaka. Feast on takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and explore the animated chaos of its streets.

This day is all about fun. Whether you love theme parks or prefer city views, Osaka delivers.

Morning:

• Visit Universal Studios Japan or Umeda Sky Building

Afternoon:

• Shop at Shinsaibashi or explore the youth-driven Amerikamura district.

Evening:

• Try local eats like kushikatsu in Shinsekai — Osaka’s nostalgic, retro neighborhood.

Nara, just under an hour away, is where deer roam freely and ancient temples whisper stories of old Japan.

Morning:

• Take a train to Nara (under 1 hour from Osaka)
• Visit Nara Park, feed the deer
• Explore Todai-ji Temple (Great Buddha Hall)

Afternoon:
Wander around Kasuga Taisha Shrine and relax in Isuien Garden.

Evening:
Return to Osaka or continue to Kyoto for the next leg of the journey.

Now in Kyoto, start with one of the most photographed spots in Japan — Fushimi Inari. Then explore Gion, where you might spot a geisha if you're lucky.

Morning:

• Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha (thousands of red torii gates)

Afternoon:
Dive into the charm of Gion, known for geisha culture, wooden teahouses, and cobblestone streets.

Evening:
Enjoy a traditional Kyoto dinner — tofu dishes, matcha desserts, or kaiseki if you missed it in Hakone.

Today is dedicated to Kyoto’s serene side. From lush bamboo forests to golden temples, it’s peaceful and beautiful.

Morning:

• Travel to Arashiyama to see the Bamboo Grove
• Visit Tenryu-ji Temple and Togetsukyo Bridge

Afternoon:
Head north to see Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), an absolute showstopper of a temple.

Evening:
Do some last-minute shopping in Kyoto Station — it’s more than just trains!

It’s the final day. If you’re flying out of Tokyo, hop on the Shinkansen back. Or fly from Kansai International Airport near Osaka.

Morning:

• Take the Shinkansen back to Tokyo (2.5 hours) if your flight is from there
• Or fly out from Kansai International Airport (KIX) near Osaka

• Japan Rail Pass: Great value if using many Shinkansen trips; reserve in advance
• IC Cards: Suica or Pasmo for easy travel in cities
• Cash is King: Carry cash for small shops; ATMs are easy to find
• Respect Etiquette: Be quiet on public transport, no shoes in homes/temples
• Connectivity: Rent a pocket Wi-Fi or SIM card at the airport

This 10-day Japan itinerary covers just enough of the country’s most iconic sights and experiences without feeling rushed. From the anime arcades and bullet trains to sacred temples and peaceful gardens, you'll get a little bit of everything. Whether it's your first time or a return visit, Japan has a way of making you fall in love with every step.