7 Days Japan Itinerary
This 7-day itinerary takes you on a whirlwind tour of Japan's highlights, covering Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Experience vibrant city life, serene temples, and delicious food, all while staying within a moderate budget.
Duration
7 days
Budget
$700-1400
Best Time
Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms or Autumn (September-November) for colorful foliage
Activities
40
Daily Avg
$150/day
Cities
Tokyo (2d), Kyoto (2d), Osaka (3d)
Pace
Fast
Japan offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern technology. From serene temples and gardens to bustling cityscapes and delicious cuisine, there's something for everyone. Its efficient public transportation system makes it easy to explore multiple cities.
Your itinerary covers 11 of 15 must-have experiences
Castle
Day 5: Osaka Castle
Temple
Day 2: Senso-ji Temple
Shrine
Day 4: Fushimi Inari Shrine
Onsen
e.g., Hakone Onsen, Kusatsu Onsen
Food Market
Day 3: Nishiki Market
Garden
Day 1: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (optional)
Ramen Shop
Day 7: Last-minute Souvenir Shopping
Train Ride
Day 1: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Mountain
e.g., Mount Fuji, Mount Takao
Tea Ceremony
e.g., Camellia Tea Ceremony (Kyoto), En Tea Ceremony (Tokyo)
Street Food
Day 5: Sample street food in Dotonbori
Bamboo Forest
Day 4: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Deer Interaction
Day 6: Nara Park
Anime/Manga Culture
Day 2: Akihabara Electric Town
Unique District
Day 3: Gion District
Japanese cuisine is renowned for its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation. From delicate sushi to hearty ramen, the culinary landscape offers a diverse range of flavors and experiences. Expect a focus on umami and a visual presentation that's as important as the taste.
Must-Try Dishes
Vinegared rice paired with various toppings, most commonly seafood. Experience the freshness of the fish and the perfect balance of flavors. Nigiri (fish on rice) and Maki (rolled sushi) are popular choices.
๐ Tsukiji Outer Market (Tokyo), local sushi restaurants (everywhere)
Noodle soup with a rich broth, toppings like pork belly (chashu), seaweed, and a soft-boiled egg. Each region has its own unique style of ramen, from tonkotsu (pork bone broth) to miso ramen.
๐ Ramen shops (everywhere), especially in Tokyo, Fukuoka, and Sapporo
Lightly battered and deep-fried seafood and vegetables. Enjoy the crispy texture and delicate flavors, usually dipped in a tentsuyu sauce.
๐ Specialized tempura restaurants, department store restaurants
Savory pancake containing flour, egg, shredded cabbage, and various ingredients like meat, seafood, and vegetables. Two main styles: Osaka-style (ingredients mixed together) and Hiroshima-style (layered).
๐ Okonomiyaki restaurants, especially in Osaka and Hiroshima
Food Neighborhoods
Known for fresh seafood and street food.
Known for its vibrant street food scene and iconic food signs.
Known for its retro atmosphere and Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).
Known for traditional restaurants and teahouses along the Kamogawa River.
Vegetarian options can be limited, but look for dishes like vegetable tempura, tofu dishes, and vegetarian ramen (ask specifically). Communicating dietary restrictions clearly is essential, use a translation app if needed. Halal food can be challenging to find outside major cities; search for halal-certified restaurants beforehand. Common allergens include soy sauce, shellfish, and sesame.
It's customary to say "itadakimasu" before eating and "gochisousama deshita" after. Slurping noodles is considered polite. Don't stick your chopsticks upright in your rice bowl. Using chopsticks to pass food directly to someone else is a funeral custom and should be avoided.
Cherry Blossom Season
HanamiPeak cherry blossom viewing season with picnics under blooming trees.
Note: Book 3+ months ahead - hotels sell out quickly
Golden Week
Japan's longest holiday period with multiple national holidays. Domestic travel surge.
Note: Book 3+ months ahead or avoid entirely
Gion Matsuri
One of Japan's most famous festivals with elaborate floats and traditional performances.
Note: Book 2 months ahead for mid-July
Autumn Leaves Season
KoyoPeak autumn foliage viewing with stunning red and gold colors across Japan.
Note: Book 2 months ahead for Kyoto
๐ฃ๏ธInteresting Detours & Side Trips
- ๐ถArrive at Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) Airport$25-35
2:00 PM - Arrive at Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) Airport
Take the Narita Express or Limousine Bus to Shinjuku Station. Purchase a Suica or Pasmo card for easy travel on local trains and buses.
- ๐ถTake the Narita Express or Limousine Bus from NRT/HND to Shinjuku Station. From Shinjuku Station, walk or take a short taxi ride to your hotel.$30-50
4:00 PM - Check into Hotel/Hostel in Shinjuku
Find accommodation near Shinjuku Station for easy access to transportation. Consider booking in advance for better rates.
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- ๐ถWalk from your hotel to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.FREE
5:00 PM - Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Enjoy free panoramic views of Tokyo from the observation decks. Arrive before sunset for the best experience.
Book on Klook - ๐ถWalk from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building to Shinjuku Golden Gai.$15-25
7:00 PM - Dinner in Shinjuku Golden Gai
Explore the narrow alleyways of Golden Gai and sample local food and drinks at one of the tiny bars. Be aware that some bars have cover charges.
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- ๐ถWalk or take a short taxi ride from Shinjuku Golden Gai to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.$5
9:00 PM - Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (optional)
If open late, enjoy a stroll through this beautiful garden, a tranquil oasis in the city. Check closing times in advance.
Book on Klook
Shinjuku
Shinjuku is a vibrant hub with excellent transport links, diverse dining options, and iconic attractions.
๐ Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms or Autumn (September-November) for colorful foliage. The weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
The weather during spring and autumn is generally mild and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Temperatures are comfortable, and rainfall is relatively low.
Spring and Autumn are considered shoulder seasons in Japan, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to peak seasons.
Golden Week (late April to early May) and Obon Festival (mid-August) are major holidays that can affect travel due to increased crowds and higher prices.
Getting Around
World-class public transport with punctual trains and buses
Suica / Pasmo / ICOCA
Get a Japan Rail Pass for multi-city travel. Trains stop around midnight.
Travel
$150-300 (local transport)Accommodation
$200-400 (hostels/budget hotels)Food
$200-400Activities
$150-300Eat at convenience stores (konbini) like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Lawson. They offer a vast selection of fresh, affordable, and surprisingly delicious meals, snacks, and drinks (onigiri, bento boxes, sandwiches).
Take advantage of lunch sets (teishoku) or 'setto' menus at restaurants. These are typically much cheaper than dinner options for the same quality of food.
Indulge in a traditional ryokan stay with a kaiseki dinner. It's a full cultural experience including elaborate multi-course meals, private onsen (hot spring) baths, and impeccable service.
Experience high-quality Wagyu beef or an authentic sushi omakase (chef's choice) dinner. While pricey, the quality and culinary artistry are unparalleled.
Visit supermarkets in the evening (typically after 7 PM) for discounted fresh food items, including bento boxes, sushi, and baked goods, as they clear out inventory for the next day.
Explore 'depachika' โ the food halls located in the basement of department stores. They offer an incredible array of gourmet foods, and sometimes offer samples or discounted items, especially towards closing time.
- Purchase a Japan Rail Pass if you plan on doing a lot of long-distance train travel. Calculate whether it's cost-effective for your itinerary.
- Get a Suica or Pasmo card for easy travel on local trains and buses in Tokyo and other major cities.
- Learn basic Japanese phrases, such as 'hello,' 'thank you,' and 'excuse me.'
- Carry cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
- Take off your shoes when entering homes, temples, and some traditional restaurants.
- Be mindful of noise levels in public places, especially on trains.
- Tipping is not customary in Japan.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- 1Comfortable walking shoes
- 2Lightweight clothing (layers are recommended)
- 3Rain jacket or umbrella
- 4Portable charger for your phone
- 5Universal adapter
- 6Small backpack for day trips
- 7Pocket Wi-Fi router or SIM card
- 8Japanese phrasebook
- 9First-aid kit with basic medications
- 10Reusable water bottle
Flights and Accommodation
Book at least 3-6 months in advance, especially for peak seasons (cherry blossom, fall foliage) or popular destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, to secure preferred options and better prices.
Japan Rail Pass (if applicable)
If planning extensive travel across multiple regions, calculate if a JR Pass is cost-effective. Purchase before arriving in Japan, as buying inside Japan is significantly more expensive.
Ghibli Museum Tickets
Tickets are notoriously hard to get and sell out instantly. Purchase online via official channels (e.g., Lawson Ticket in Japan, or authorized international resellers) exactly one month in advance, usually on the 10th of the preceding month.
Popular Restaurant Reservations
For high-end or highly sought-after restaurants (especially Michelin-starred), book 1-3 months in advance. Many require hotel concierge assistance for foreign visitors.
Pocket WiFi or SIM Card
Pre-order online for convenient pickup at major airports upon arrival. This ensures immediate connectivity as soon as you land.
Ryokan Stay (Traditional Inn)
Especially popular ryokans or those with private onsen rooms can book out 3-6 months in advance, particularly during peak seasons.
TeamLab Borderless / Planets Tickets
These popular digital art museums often sell out, especially on weekends and holidays. Book online a few weeks to a month in advance.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details โ such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options โ closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
๐ Airalo app or website
๐ Mobal website (ships internationally) or Narita/Haneda Airport
๐ Japan Wireless website (delivery to hotel or airport)
๐ Holafly website
Free WiFi is increasingly available in hotels, cafes (Starbucks, Tully's), and some public areas, especially in major cities. However, connection speeds and reliability can vary. Pocket WiFi or SIM card is highly recommended for consistent connectivity.
Useful Apps
Purchase your SIM card or pocket WiFi in advance for convenience. Consider an eSIM if your phone is compatible. Download offline maps and translation packs before your trip. Check the coverage area of your chosen provider, especially if you plan to travel to rural areas. Ensure your phone is unlocked before purchasing a SIM card.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two flat parallel pins
Two flat parallel pins + round ground
100V
50/60Hz
Tipping Etiquette
Not expected โ tipping can be considered rude
Not expected
Not expected; leave a tip in an envelope if desired
Japan has a no-tipping culture. Excellent service is the standard.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Japan is generally a very safe country for tourists. Exercise normal precautions against petty theft, especially in crowded areas.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
110
119
119
English support available at #7119 (medical) and #9110 (police non-emergency)
Payments
Cash is still widely used, especially at small shops and rural areas
Accepted at major stores and hotels; less common at small restaurants
IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) widely accepted at convenience stores and transit
Carry cash โ many places are cash-only. 7-Eleven ATMs accept foreign cards.
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Trip Summary
How was this itinerary?
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are the best times to visit Japan due to the pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Spring offers cherry blossoms, while autumn boasts colorful foliage. However, these periods can be more crowded.
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