7 day guided tour japan

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7 Day Japan Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 7 day Japan tour with TourRadar. Choose from 39 trips with 227 customer reviews, that range from 4 up to 7 days.

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39 japan 7 day tour packages with 227 reviews.

• Food & Culinary
• Christmas & New Year

Japan: Castles & Cuisine

All good. Very immersive and worthwhile experience.

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing

7-Day Japan Delight: Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto

Overall we were pleased with the trip. The hotel in Tokyo was quite far away from the city center but had wonderful insensitive available and a good breakfast. Our group was only 25 people so the bus was comfortable and we got around pretty quickly. Our Guide Sumi was excellent and helpful although there were a few problems understand. She made general recommendations for restaurant areas and it was fun to find and sample the food. The city tours were additional but by the end we felt comfortable taking trains and exploring on our own.

Essential Japan

The tour was very well organized. All the tour arrangements were as per the agreement made while booking the tour. The staff of the company was very courteous. We are satisfied with the services provided.

7 Days Tokyo and Kansai Classic Tour with Kids (private guide & driver）

• €85 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Independent Tokyo & Kyoto City Stays

Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima end Tokyo

3 different guides throughout who were all excellent. Really full of knowledge & also got to you know you so could tell some personal things you'd like about the areas

• Train & Rail

Highlights of Japan - 7 Days

We are part of the Tokyo/Osaka Tour from June 8-14,2023. Masa our tour guide was awesome. Very professional and knowledgeable .

7 Days Customized Tokyo and Kansai Classic Tour (private guide & driver）

Japan: Tokyo Nights & Kyoto Temples

Tour was great! I had fun. CEO Sho and Tetsu were amazing in guiding us all over the locations and teaching the culture and history of shrines and streets. Catching trains & subways like ninjas, experiencing the bathing ways of japanese or using onsen is one of my favorite. Plus I’m with amazing young groups. I wish I had more time to discover more of places. I’l definitely come back!

• Festival & Events

7 Days Customized Best Japan Tour, Private & Daily Departure

Unfortunately, we saw a little little in Tokyo, Osaka and Nara and Kyoto were very nice and detailed

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Delve Deep: Intro to Japan

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Japan E-Bike Tour

Immerse in Anime: 7-Day Tour of Tokyo's Anime Scene

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Coach / Bus

South Japan Express

David Solanes is simply the best guide I have ever had the pleasure of being part of the tour. He was funny knowledgeable and paid excellent personal attention to our traveling needs. This trip is our first tour with Euromundo and because of David, we will definitely travel with Euromundo and hopefully David again in the near future. David is simply superb and the tour was great because of him, we highly recommend this tour and Euromundo.

7 Days Onsen in Kyushu Culture Tour (private guide & driver）

What people love about 7 day japan tours.

Itinerary was good, tour guides communication need improvement on volume since it was a big group.

Regions in Japan

• Southern Japan (38)
• Central Japan (36)
• Honshu (34)

Other Regions in Japan

• Southern Japan 2 week Tours (130)
• Honshu 2 week Tours (129)
• Central Japan 2 week Tours (127)
• Southern Japan 10 day Tours (103)
• Central Japan 10 day Tours (100)
• Honshu 10 day Tours (98)
• Southern Japan 3 week Tours (41)
• Central Japan 3 week Tours (40)
• Southern Japan 7 day Tours (38)
• Honshu 3 week Tours (38)
• Central Japan 7 day Tours (36)
• Honshu 7 day Tours (34)
• Northern Japan 10 day Tours (8)
• Kansai 10 day Tours (8)
• Kansai 7 day Tours (6)
• Shikoku 10 day Tours (5)
• Japan Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 2 Week (14 Days) Japan Travel Itineraries & Cost 2024/2025
• 1 Week (7 Day) Japan Travel Itineraries 2024/2025
• Best 3 Week (21 Days) Japan Travel Itineraries 2024/2025
• Discover the Best Japan Vacation Packages 2024/2025
• What is the best time to visit Japan in 2024/2025?
• Weather in Japan in 2024/2025

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7 Day Japan Tours     View Tours

7 day japan tours.

With seven days to spend in Japan, Tokyo beckons with monumental must-see sights and its vibrant pulse of city life. A perfect mix ancient and advanced ideas of Japan, with gleaming skyscrapers including the futuristic Tokyo Skytree towering peaceful landscape gardens and city parks. This cutting-edge metropolis hides a traditional heart that can be explored in the Asakusa district at Sensoji Temple and at the old Imperial Palace gardens. Tokyo has so many wonderful sights that it can easily take up an entire 7- day tour, but we recommend a few day-trips into the surrounding countryside to get immersed into some of the rustic, tranquil landscapes and locations that give travelers a more rich Japan experience. Travel to Hakone, an enchanting landscape of mountains, lakes, and forests contained in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Not far from Hakone is iconic Mount Fuji, whose shapely cone should be admired by every traveler to Japan. Delve into Owakudani, a rocky landscape covered in sulfurous steam roiling out over the primordial caldera from hot springs and rivers. Venture into Nikko to discover opulent Toshogu, which enshrines famed shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. Make some time to marvel at the massive seated Buddha of Kotoku-in Shrine in the town of Kamakura. For a more traditional experience, take a week among the UNESCO heritage temples of Kyoto, where history and traditional culture is preserved in such must-sees as the Golden Pavilion’s shimmering phoenix, Kiyomizu Temple’s dramatic stage, and the breathtaking hall of a thousand scarlet torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine. Seven days includes plenty of time to experience some of the attractions of the surrounding area, such as Nara’s wild deer park, Osaka’s iconic castle, and Kobe’s wagyu beef. Seven days is also just the right time for a tour of covering the best of both modern and ancient Japan: both the Tokyo metropolis and the temples of Kyoto. Convenient additional stops include the natural wonders of Hakone and Mount Fuji and the wild deer surrounding Todaiji Temple at Nara.

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Japan Deluxe Tours

Visit the must see sites of japan with group sizes ranging from 12 to 35 people..

These tours are great for first time visitors to Japan looking for comfortable accommodation with all entrance fees and most meals included. Our Japan Deluxe Tours are accomodated with professional tour guides, fluent in both Japanese and English, to ensure an educational and valuable visit. Air-conditoned, private coaches are also included, so you can enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free time in Japan. Our tours range from 7 to 21 days, to various regions of Japan.

Deluxe-Plus Small Group Tours

Experience the culture of japan at a slower pace with groups of 10 to 18 people. (smaller group departure available).

These tours combine enrichment, enjoyment, and education with time to truly absorb and appreciate your surroundings. Our Deluxe-Plus small group tours are created to cater to those who are interested in having a deeper understanding of Japan's culture. You will have the opportunity to participate in culturally rich activities and visit destinations only locals may know. Experience luxurious hotels and travel at a leisurely pace when you book a Deluxe-Plus small group tour.

Budget Group Tours

Our budget tours are designed for our guests who are on a limited budget..

Explore the must-see sights and enjoy the hassle-free trip to Japan at an affordable price. Our most cost-effective way to see the highlights of Japan while staying in budget-friendly accommodations. If you would like to have a quick stop to sample the must-see sights of Japan, or plan to explore Japan on your own but would like to take a short trip to learn about Japan before your self-guided journeys. These are the tours for you.

Active Small Group Tours

Travel japan more flexibly in groups of 6 to 13 people using public transportation..

Explore Japan off the beaten path via Japanese public transportation, walking, hiking, cycling and more. Take more time to enjoy local experiences and picturesque landscape. Our Active Small Group Tours combine the best of cultural destinations with off-the-beaten-path via Japanese public transportation, Discover the country of Japan the way the locals do and see Japan from a different angle. A focus on getting away from the crowds and into the real Japan, see the diversity of Japan’s countryside unfold before your eyes.

Group Tour | Budget           Book Now & Save $50

Group Tour | Budget     Book Now & Save $50

7 Days 6 Nights | from US $2398.00

Tokyo / Hakone / Nagoya

Join our delightful autumn anime tour of japan, exploring anime and manga must-sees through tokyo, hakone, and nagoya..

Join our refreshing summer Anime Tour of Japan, exploring anime and manga must-sees through Tokyo, Hakone, and Nagoya.

7 Days 6 Nights | from US $2598.00

Join our Anime Tour of Japan, exploring anime and manga must-sees through Tokyo, Hakone, and Nagoya, during the enchanting cherry blossom season.

Group Tour | Deluxe           Book Now & Save $100

Group Tour | Deluxe     Book Now & Save $100

7 Days 6 Nights | from US $2898.00

Tokyo / Hakone / Hikone / Koka / Kyoto / Nara / Osaka

Perfect introduction for first time visitors with limited time..

7 Days 6 Nights | from US $2998.00

Nara / Kyoto / Koka / Hakone / Mt Fuji / Tokyo

Osaka / Nara / Kyoto / Koka / Hakone / Mt Fuji / Tokyo

Tokyo / Mt Fuji / Hakone / Koka / Kyoto / Nara / Osaka

Nara / Kyoto / Koka / Hikone / Hakone / Mt Fuji / Tokyo

Tokyo / Mt Fuji / Hakone / Hikone / Koka / Kyoto / Nara / Osaka

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Autumn Tours (Sep - Nov)

Winter Tours (Dec - Feb)

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Walking Tour

Cherry Blossom Tours

Autumn Leaves Tours

Festival Tours

Special Interest Tours

Seasonal Attractions

Cherry Blossoms

Takayama Spring Festival

Kyoto Aoi Festival

Shibazakura Festivals

Baby Blue Eyes Flowers

Lavenders in Hokkaido

Gion Summer Festival

Tohoku 3 Great Summer Festivals

Awa Odori Dance Festival

Autumn Leaves

Takayama Autumn Festival

Snow Monkeys

Sapporo Snow Festival

Ice Breaker Cruise

Wakasagi Smelt Fishing

Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival

Things Not to Miss

Shirakawago

Miho Museum

Naoshima Island

Himeji Castle

Shiretoko Nature Cruise

Sushi-Making Experience

Kyoto Cuisine with Maiko

Green Tea Ceremony with Maiko

Ise Grand Shrine

Most Beautiful Places in Japan

Otaru Snow Light Path

Tottori Sand Dunes

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Miyajima Island

Motonosumi-Inari Shrine

Adachi Museum of Art

Shimanami Kaido

Takeda Castle Ruin

Kurashiki Canal Area

Takachiho Gorge

7 Day Japan Itinerary: 2024 Guide For First-Timers

Looking for the perfect 7 Day Japan Itinerary 2024? This is the only guide you’ll need!

From the ancient temples and shrines of Kyoto to the modern cityscapes of Tokyo and Osaka, Japan is teeming with both old and new.

Whether you’re looking for a diverse range of amazing food, beautiful scenery, or unique cultural experiences, every region in this breathtaking country has something different to offer!

Japan is one of my absolute favorite countries to visit, and definitely the kind of place you could spend months exploring.

But don’t worry – if you only have a short time frame to visit, seeing Japan in a week is totally possible!

In this best 7 day Japan itinerary, you will find my recommendations for the top locations to visit, how to get around, where to stay, and much more.

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW – 7 DAY JAPAN ITINERARY

To get the most out of your 1 week in Japan, here is an overview of my recommended route to take:

• Day 1: Tokyo to Kyoto
• Day 2: Kyoto
• Day 3: Kyoto to Nara
• Day 4: Kyoto to Osaka
• Day 5: Osaka
• Day 6: Osaka to Hiroshima
• Day 7: Hiroshima to Fuji to Tokyo

HOW TO GET AROUND – 7 DAYS IN JAPAN

The easiest and most convenient way to discover Japan is with a 7 Day Japan Rail Pass that is valid for use on the vast majority of railways and local buses operated by JR (Japan Rail) throughout the country.

Choose between an Ordinary Pass, or the Green Class Pass if you’re looking to travel in more comfort with reclining seats, a footrest, extra leg space, and a travel magazine.

The Japan Rail Pass is definitely the best ticket to have when planning your Japan itinerary 7 days budget!

Travel Japan with the JR Pass!

Get a 7-day, 14-day, or 21-day JR Pass for your trip to Japan and enjoy unlimited travel on JR services!

The JR Pass is valid on the Shinkansen (bullet train), Limited Express, Local Trains, and JR Buses.

WHERE TO BUY YOUR JR PASS?

You can purchase a JR Pass online through an official Japan Rail Pass reseller such as Klook .

I recommend buying your pass prior to arriving – not only is it cheaper online than buying in Japan itself but it will allow you to jump right into your trip!

When you purchase your JR Pass , a voucher will be mailed to your home address within a couple of days (or delivered to your hotel in Japan, if you choose).

At the Travel Service Center, the process is very simple. You exchange this voucher and show your passport and visa.

( Note: When you land in Japan, you’ll automatically get a tourist visa in your passport at immigration. For the majority of nationalities, the visa is free if you’re in Japan for less than 90 days. )

Then, after specifying the date you’d like your pass to start and reserving your seat for the first leg of the trip, you’ll receive your pass and be ready to begin your 7 days in Japan!

Read More: JR Pass – A Complete Guide On How It Works

7 DAY JAPAN ITINERARY

Now that we’ve covered some logistics on how to get around Japan, let’s get to the fun stuff – a Japan day-to-day itinerary!

So, without further ado here is a complete 7 day itinerary for Japan!

DAY 1: TOKYO TO KYOTO

The first of your Japan itinerary for 7 days will be about getting from Tokyo to Kyoto, and that is pretty simple from Tokyo Station.

Note that, if you get to Tokyo late at night, I recommend staying near Tokyo Station so you’re ready to go early in the morning after.

HOW TO GET FROM TOKYO TO KYOTO

If you’re arriving at Narita Airport, I recommend getting the 1300¥ ($9 USD) bus direct from the airport to Tokyo Station.

It only takes around 70 minutes, and offers great views as you approach and become engulfed by Tokyo city!

Once you get to Tokyo Station, follow the signs to the Marunouchi North Gate exit, and there you’ll find the JR East Travel Service Center.

This is where you will trade your JR pass voucher for your actual JR Rail Pass.

From there, head to the JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line at Tokyo Station. Look for screens that show the name and departure time of your Shinkansen (this info is also on your reserved seat ticket), and you’ll be able to find the right platform and car number.

The trip to Kyoto takes about 3 hours on the bullet train, so if you leave in the early morning you can be there by around 11 am.

If the weather is clear, you might even sneak a view of Fuji on the way down, so keep a lookout on the right-hand side of the train!

In case you need to stay in Tokyo for the night, I recommend a hotel near Tokyo Station, and the one below is an excellent option.

The BEST Hotel in Tokyo

Need a place to stay? Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Marunouchi is conveniently located near Tokyo Station.

Whether you’re here to explore the sights or relax in comfort, Hotel Metropolitan offers the best of both worlds.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN KYOTO

The best tourist attractions you should check out when visiting Kyoto are the ones below.

Kyoto National Museum

For your first stop in Kyoto, I recommend briefly checking out the Kyoto National Museum.

With a wide range of exhibits showing off ancient Japanese culture and hosting many famous names in Japanese art, you’ll definitely be able to marvel at and learn something new about Kyoto’s rich history.

The entry price for adults is 700¥, and you can pay extra for exclusive seasonal exhibitions.

How to get there:

Kyoto City Bus 100 or 206 from Kyoto Station to Sanjusangendo-mae bus stop, or via a 10-minute walk from Shichijo Station on the Keihan line.

Kinkaku-ji Temple

Next on your 7 days itinerary in Japan, I highly suggest paying a visit to Kinkaku-ji Temple in Kyoto’s northwest, where you’ll find the famous Golden Pavilion, located on a small lake in the middle of a serene garden.

The building dates back to 1397, and was once the holiday retreat villa for a prominent Japanese Shogun!

You can expect to spend about an hour exploring the temple and its surrounding gardens. Opening hours are from 9 am – 5 pm and the ticket price is 500¥.

Kyoto City Bus 205 from Kyoto Station to Kinkakuji-michi bus stop, Kyoto City Bus 59 from Sanjo-Keihan to the Kinkakuji-mae stop, or taxi directly to Kinkaku-ji Temple.

Ditch Your Backpack, Get a Suitcase!

The Nomatic Check-In is the only luggage you’ll need with 90L capacity for those extended trips.

It’s sleek, it’s durable, and it will save your shoulders from pain by not having to carry any weight.

Ryoan-ji Temple

Finally, from Kinkaku-ji temple it is a 20-minute walk or 5-minute bus ride to Ryoan-ji Temple – the site of Japan’s most famous rock garden, attracting hundreds of visitors every day.

Meditating with the view of this immaculately well-kept Cultural World Heritage site is a perfect way to end the first day of your itinerary!

DAY 2: KYOTO

Day 2 is all about visiting other tourist spots in Kyoto, from the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest to the Tori gates of Fushimi Inari and more.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Begin the second day of your 7 day itinerary Japan at the world-famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.

A trip to Japan wouldn’t be complete without having visited Arashiyama!

Kyoto’s bamboo forest  is one of the most photographed attractions in the city and experiencing it through your own eyes is even better than any picture you would have seen of this place!

There is one main path leading through the Kyoto bamboo grove and when you enter the parallel tunnel of bamboo trees, you’ll feel like you’ve just entered another realm.

The nature that surrounds Arashiyama is absolutely breathtaking and chances are you’ll spot a few monkeys in the area too, so keep your eyes peeled.

A personal recommendation – make sure to come just after sunrise as photos will look even more stunning and you’ll avoid the group tours.

Talking about group tours, in case you don’t feel comfortable visiting by yourself, consider this Early Bird Tour that includes a visit to the Bamboo Forest.

The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest entrance fee is free of charge and the opening hours are Monday to Sunday from 5:30 am – 11:30 pm.

Find your way to Saga Arashiyama Station on the JR Sagano line using the JR Pass and it’s a short 10-minute walk from here.

BEST KYOTO BAMBOO FOREST TOUR

A must-do when visiting Kyoto is joining a Kyoto Early Bird Tour !

It includes a professional guide, a tour of the Bamboo Forest, and a visit to Kinkakuji Temple!

Fushimi Inari

Next up on this Japan itinerary is a journey through the world-famous Tori gates of Fushimi Inari.

This must-see shrine consists of a pathway lined with over 10,000 Tori gates that extend 4 km up to the very top of Mount Inari.

It takes about two hours to walk to the top and back down, however, you can turn back whenever you want!

Along the pathway, you will also see many stone foxes, symbolizing the messenger of Inari – the god of rice… and business!

The Fushimi Inari Shrine is free to enter and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

JR Nara Line from Kyoto railway station using the JR Pass , two stops to JR Inari station.

Maiko Theater

One of the most exclusive experiences in Kyoto is meeting a traditional Geisha performer.

Geisha are highly skilled entertainers who appear at high-end dinners, private parties, and special events to add a special touch to the proceedings and are rarely seen in public.

Many foreigners tend to run around the red light district areas to try to get a glimpse of a Geisha girl or pay large sums to have a private performance.

Luckily, for travelers on a budget, there are some cheap options to get a taste of what a Geisha show is like!

I personally recommend Maiko Theater. While training to become a Geisha between the ages of 15 and 20, these girls are known as ‘Maiko’, and this theatre gives you the rare opportunity to get to see one of them close up!

It is relatively inexpensive (5500¥ for their basic show, including a special dance and Q&A session), and you can take as many photos of (and with) her as you like!

Bus from Kyoto Station to Kawaramachi Gojo bus stop, then walk for 2 minutes, or 3 minutes walk east from Keihan Shimizu Gojo station (exit 4).

Kiyomizu-Dera

Next on this 7 days Japan itinerary, head to Kiyomizu-michi street and follow it uphill until you reach the popular Kiyomizu-dera (Water) Temple.

The walk leading up to the temple is almost as exciting as the temple visit, with many traditional buildings, shops, and restaurants.

The temple is built into the side of the mountain, and from the huge verandah, you can see spectacular views of the hillside and the entire city.

Below the Kiyomizu-Dera temple, you can find the reason why people make pilgrimages here from around Japan and the world – the Otowa Waterfall.

The waters are divided into three streams, and visitors use long poles with cups attached to drink from the streams.

Each stream has a different meaning and benefit – long life and health, success in school/career, and love. However, you can only drink from one… so choose carefully!

From Kiyomizu-dera, you can meander down the iconic Sannenzaka alleyway.

This historical, stone-paved street is lined with many traditional Japanese buildings, shops, cafes, and inns, and is also surrounded by several famous landmarks such as Yasaka Shrine, Maruyama Park, Yasaka Pagoda, and Kodaiji Zen Temple.

Once you reach the bottom of the hill, you’ve basically arrived at Gion, home to various red-light districts where you might be lucky enough to spot a Geisha! My favorite is Hanamikoji Street.

I recommend timing your arrival here for around 5:30 pm, as this is when the Geishas start leaving their homes to go to work (…and avoid the paparazzi of foreigners while doing so!)

Be careful though, you can be fined for taking photos of them, as it is considered highly disrespectful.

Put the cameras down for this one, and enjoy the chance to see one in the moment!

MORE THINGS TO DO IN KYOTO

If you want to see more attractions in Kyoto, be sure to check out my other travel guide which includes 25 AMAZING things to do in Kyoto!

Read More: Kyoto Travel Guide – 25 AMAZING Things To Do

Where to stay in kyoto.

Kyoto has hundreds of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay in Kyoto to suit the needs of luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend in Kyoto for your 7 day itinerary Japan.

LUXURY: HOTEL GRANVIA KYOTO

MID RANGE: TUNE STAY KYOTO

BUDGET: LEN KYOTO HOSTEL

TRADITIONAL RYOKAN

If you’re looking for an authentic experience to add to your Japan 7 day itinerary, I highly recommend staying at a traditional Ryokan (Japanese-style inn) during your stay.

My personal favorite is  Kyoto Ryokan Kinoe  which is conveniently located in central Kyoto just 5 minutes walk from Gion.

This cozy Ryokan offers spacious tatami mat rooms, 24-hour baths, and multi-course meals served for breakfast and dinner.

Staying here will make you feel like you’re a traveler back in Edo-era Japan!

For More Options In Kyoto, Search On Booking.com

Day 3: kyoto to nara.

A day trip to Nara is an absolute must on your 7-day Japan itinerary and it’s best visited during your stay in Kyoto.

Once an ancient capital of Japan, Nara is home to some of the country’s most important cultural places, including the world’s largest wooden structure and the well-known Nara Deer Park.

HOW TO GET FROM KYOTO TO NARA

Using your JR Pass , take the JR Nara line from Kyoto Station to JR Nara Station. Local lines run about three times an hour, and the journey takes about 70 minutes.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN NARA

Below are some of the best things to do in Nara when visiting from Kyoto.

Todai-ji Temple

Todai-ji is the architectural highlight of this one-day Nara trip. Housing the world’s largest Daibutsu (bronze Buddha statue), this Great Buddha Hall is the world’s largest wooden structure.

As you approach Todai-ji, you can see the famous Nara deer chilling freely around the temple grounds.

It’s 800¥ to enter, and you can pay extra to visit the attached museum too.

Bus from JR Nara station to Todai-ji Daibutsuden station, then a 5-10 minute walk to the main temple.

The BEST Affordable Camera For Travel

If you’re on the hunt for a professional camera for traveling, check out the Canon G7 X Mark II .

This tiny camera fits in your pocket, captures high-quality photos and videos, and has Wi-Fi so you can instantly transfer to your phone!

Nara Deer Park

From Todai-ji, it’s a short work to Nara Deer Park.

This place is full of the city’s iconic animal residents, and they aren’t afraid to say hello! You can even bow to them, and they will bow back!

You’ll see numerous street vendors selling senbei crackers that you can feed them.

But beware, as soon as a deer sees you holding one in your hand, it won’t stop following until it gets its cracker!

DAY 4: KYOTO TO OSAKA

Day 4 is all about Osaka, and you’ll easily get there from Kyoto. Let me elaborate below as well as some must-see attractions.

HOW TO GET FROM KYOTO TO OSAKA

The best way to get to Osaka station, once again using your JR Pass , is on the Special Rapid Service on the JR Kyoto Line.

The Special Rapid Train will get you to Osaka Station in 28 minutes. Trains depart from platforms 4 and 5 at Kyoto Station.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN OSAKA

Once in Osaka, you have to check out some of the best places in town, but first, head to America Town and Universal Studios after that.

Amerika-mura (America Town)

For your first stop on your Osaka itinerary , I seriously recommend spending time in Amerika-mura – an American-inspired district filled with vintage shops, record stores, and Western foods with a Japanese twist.

The now-thriving neighborhood was once filled with empty warehouses and parking lots, but all changed in 1969 when a hip cafe opened, attracting young people and artists from around the region.

Nowadays, it’s still a vibrant hub, and has some of the most eccentric and punk fashion anywhere in Japan!

Universal Studios

If you’re into theme parks, then put Universal Studios Japan (USJ) on your 7 days in Japan itinerary!

This huge park is Osaka’s equivalent of Tokyo Disneyland and offers a world of pop culture, family-friendly rides, and an ever-changing calendar of seasonal events.

A 1-day studio pass starts at￥8,600.

From Osaka Station, you can take a direct train and be there in just 12 minutes!

DAY 5: OSAKA

On your Japan itinerary, you’ll want to stay 2 days in Osaka, and after visiting Universal Studios on the first day, here are other attractions to see.

Osaka Castle

On the morning of day 5, I definitely recommend checking out Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most recognized monuments.

Built by General Hideyoshi Toyotomi in 1583 as a display of power after unifying Japan, the castle grounds cover around 15 acres!

The surrounding park itself is also a famous spot for the Hanami ( Cherry Blossom ) season.

It’s definitely a worthwhile visit on any Japan itinerary! You will get to learn about not only this amazing monument but the incredible history of the region too.

Osaka Castle is open from 9 am to 5 pm every day and admission is 600¥.

Dotonbori & Shinsaibashi

Located just a short 10-minute walk away from B&S Eco Cube , Dotonbori is affectionately known as the “Kitchen of Japan”, or the heart and soul of Osaka – famous for its dining, entertainment, and nightlife.

A trip to Osaka is never complete without visiting Dotonbori!

The food options at Dotonbori are endless. Be it street snacks, fast meals, or exquisite dining, there is always something to satisfy every palate.

Most of the restaurants are open till the wee hours, offering high-quality food that will never disappoint. Make sure to try Takoyaki (grilled octopus), the local specialty!

Shinsaibashi is the largest, oldest, and busiest shopping district in Osaka. Shinsaibashi-Suji is at the center of Shinsaibashi, a covered shopping arcade located north of Dotonbori and connected by the Ebisu bridge under the Glico running man billboard.

WHERE TO STAY IN OSAKA

Osaka has hundreds of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay in Osaka to suit the needs of luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend in Osaka for your Japan in 7 days itinerary.

LUXURY: OSAKA MARRIOTT MIYAKO HOTEL

MID RANGE: HOTEL ELCIENT OSAKA

BUDGET: IMANO OSAKA SHINSAIBASHI HOSTEL

For More Options In Osaka, Search On Booking.com

Day 6: osaka to hiroshima.

On the second last day of your Japan itinerary, the adventure continues from Osaka to Hiroshima.

Sadly, Hiroshima is best known as the location of the world’s first nuclear bombing.

Its most poignant sites are the Genbaku Atomic Dome, Hiroshima Peace Park, and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.

I believe visiting Hiroshima and learning about its history should be a core part of anyone’s 7 day trip to Japan.

HOW TO GET FROM OSAKA TO HIROSHIMA

To get to Hiroshima, you need to first go to Shin-Osaka Station where the bullet train platforms are located, which is a short 3-minute train ride from Osaka Station via the JR Tokaido-Sanyo line.

From Shin-Osaka , you can take a bullet train on the Sanyo Shinkansen Line from Hiroshima Station, which takes 1 hour and 32 minutes on the Sakura , or 2 hours and 13 minutes on the Hikari .

THINGS TO DO IN HIROSHIMA

Hiroshima has endless things to do, especially on the historical side, and here are some of the best ones you should see.

Atomic Bomb Dome

The Atomic Bomb Dome is an impressive and somber sight.

Known before the bombing as the Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, it was one of the only buildings to survive the explosion and was preserved as a symbol of the bombing of Hiroshima.

Walking around this building can be a little bit eerie, and really makes you reflect on the destruction that war causes and how lucky we are to live in a mostly war-free world!

Tram from Hiroshima Station to Atomic Bomb Dome station, a flat rate of 180¥.

Peace Park & Hiroshima Museum

If you cross the river from the Atomic Bomb Dome, you enter the beautiful Peace Park. The key site here is the Cenotaph, which frames the ‘eternal flame’ of Hiroshima.

It is said that this flame will be burning until all nuclear bombs are eradicated. Unfortunately, I think that this flame is going to be burning for a long time!

The Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Park, and Cenotaph are all free to visit and are simply must-see on your Japan tour itinerary 7 days.

For an entry price of 200¥, you can also visit the newly renovated Hiroshima Museum, which gives a very graphic and tragic historical account of the bombing and its lasting effects on Japan and the world.

Miyajima Island

To finish off your day in Hiroshima, I recommend a visit to Miyajima Island.

Miyajima’s top attraction is the bright red shrine gate of Itsukushima-jinja which stands out in the sea and appears to be floating at high tide.

This spot is ranked as one of the three best views in Japan.

Trains depart from Hiroshima Station every 15 minutes for the 26-minute ride to Miyajimaguchi (JR Sanyo line), from where it is a 2-minute walk to the ferry bound for Miyajima.

You can ride on the JR Ferry for free with your JR Pass , it will take you 10 minutes to reach Miyajima.

WHERE TO STAY IN HIROSHIMA

Hiroshima has hundreds of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay in Hiroshima to suit the needs of luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend in Hiroshima for your Japan in 7 days itinerary.

LUXURY: SHERATON GRAND HOTEL

MID RANGE: WE BASE HIROSHIMA

BUDGET: HOSTEL MALLIKA

For More Options In Hiroshima, Search On Booking.com

Day 7: hiroshima to fuji to tokyo.

The last leg of this 7 day Japan itinerary is a little long but definitely worth it for the chance to see Mt. Fuji at the end!

HOW TO GET FROM HIROSHIMA TO FUJI

I highly advise you to wake up quite early on this last day!

From Hiroshima Station, get on the Sakura Shinkansen to Shin-Kobe, and then transfer to the Hikari Shinkansen and ride it all the way to Shin-Yokohama. You will arrive at around 12:40 pm.

From Shin-Yokohama, there are still a few more trains to catch.

First, you take the JR Yokohama Line Rapid until Hachioji, which takes around 40 minutes. From there, take the JR Chuo Special Rapid Service for Takao, which takes around 7 minutes.

Then, a 43-minute ride on the JR Chuo line until Otsuki station, where you can ride the Fuji View Express.

Fortunately, up until here, you can use your JR Pass , but as Fuji View Express is a private rail company, you can only get separate tickets or use your Suica card.

If you have any luggage, I recommend storing it at a locker at Takao station, as this is where you will come back to in order to return to Tokyo.

Locker prices are generally around 500-700¥ for a whole day, depending on if you are storing a backpack or suitcase.

Ride on the Fuji View Express until Shimoyoshida station. If all goes well, you should get in there by around 3:30 pm.

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Chureito Pagoda

From Shimoyoshida, you have a 20-minute walk up to the Chureito Pagoda.

The Chureito Pagoda, also called the Chastain Tower and officially named the Fujiyoshida Cenotaph Monument, is a shrine located in the Fuji Five Lakes region at Mount Fuji’s northern base.

Chureito Pagoda has five stories; it is situated on a mountainside overlooking Fuji Yoshida City, with Mount Fuji itself visible in the distance.

This is one of the absolute best locations to get a shot of Fuji if she’s not being shy and hiding behind the clouds!

The locals say that the best time to visit for a full view is in the cold months of January and February, as that is when it is least cloudy.

The Chureito Pagoda is free to enter and it’s open 24 hours a day, so you can even stay to watch the sunset over this breathtaking mountain (depending on the time of year!)

I think it’s safe to say that Chureito Pagoda is an incredible sight to witness at the end of your 7 days in Japan.

HOW TO GET FROM MOUNT FUJI TO TOKYO

To get back to Tokyo, take the Fuji View Express back to Otsuki, then get on the local line bound for Takao.

From there, you can pick up your bags, and get on a rapid service bound for Shinjuku, which takes around 40-50 minutes.

Alternatively, you can get a bus from Kawaguchiko station (4 stops from Shimoyoshida station on the Fuji View line) directly to Shinjuku.

However, I recommend getting the most out of your last few hours with your JR Rail Pass , and taking the trains!

If you have more time available, why not plan a Japan itinerary 7 days with Disneyland.

BEST TOURS IN TOKYO

Where to stay in tokyo.

Tokyo has hundreds of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay in Tokyo to suit the needs of luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend in Tokyo for your Japan trip itinerary 7 days.

LUXURY: THE AOYAMA GRAND HOTEL

MID RANGE: AKASAKA EXCEL HOTEL

BUDGET: UNPLAN SHINJUKU

For More Options, See My Guide On The Best Places To Stay In Tokyo

Things to know before you go.

The currency in Japan is Yen (¥) and the exchange rate is approximately $1 USD = 149 ¥.

There are plenty of ATMs in Japan located in most convenient stores, in front of banks, inside hotels, etc. where you can easily withdraw cash to have with you during your 7 days in Japan.

That being said, you’ll want to get ready for the Japan itinerary 7 days budget and expenses, and getting a Wise card is an excellent option.

Need A Travel Money Card?

Wise offers multi-currency cards that can be used worldwide and you’ll save $ on transaction fees.

Get a Wise card today for FREE!

Most Japanese people can speak English, so if you are ever lost or need help with something you will be able to converse in English.

Also, all the signs at the airports, train stations, and shopping malls are written in both Japanese and English.

Before preparing. an itinerary Japan 7 days, I recommend purchasing an eSIM so you have access to the internet throughout your trip.

Forget plastic SIM Cards… Get an eSIM!

Say hello to eSIM – a virtual SIM card pre-loaded with mobile data so you can get online and stay connected around the world.

OneSimCard is the best eSIM for travel, with low-cost data packages available in 150+ countries.

Simply buy online, install it on your smartphone, and you’re good to go!

BEST TIME TO VISIT JAPAN

The best time to visit Japan depends on what you plan to do.

I personally prefer the spring and summer months in Japan (April – September) when temperatures are warm and the landscapes are vividly green.

However, visiting Japan in winter (December – March) is absolutely magical because the landscapes are completely covered in glistening white snow.

Visiting Japan in winter also means you have to opportunity to go skiing and snowboarding in Japan’s alpine regions like Hakuba .

VISA FOR JAPAN

Japan is visa-free for travelers from over 65 countries, and you can stay in Japan for up to 90 days on a tourist visa. Plenty of time for a sample itinerary for Japan visa 2024.

Click Here to see the full list of nationalities that are eligible for the free 90-day tourist visa. 

You don’t need to apply online for this as you will be granted a 90-day tourist visa at the airport when you arrive.

MAP OF JAPAN

Click here or on the image below for an interactive map of Japan.

WHAT TO PACK FOR JAPAN

When planning a 7 days itinerary Japan, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you.

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

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Portable PowerBank

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More Japan Travel Guides

Click the button below to view all articles related to Japan!

FINAL THOUGHTS – JAPAN ITINERARY 7 DAYS

After seven eventful days of exploring Japan, this Japan 2024 itinerary by far exceeded my expectations!

With many fun activities to do and attractions to see, Japan is definitely worth adding to your bucket list. I guarantee you won’t regret it!

If you have any questions at all about this Japan 7 day itinerary, please leave me a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

Click here to find out how you can support the site organically .

Many thanks!

PIN IT FOR LATER

13 thoughts on “7 Day Japan Itinerary: 2024 Guide For First-Timers”

Love this 7 day itinerary. Planning to visit Japan this August with my husband and two teens. I would love to follow your proposed itinerary but a bit confused where to stay. Is it advisable to stay only in Kyoto in this 7 day itinerary of yours or would you advise as to stay to other accommodation each day?

Thanks and Kind REgards, Joan

Hi Joan, thanks for the positive feedback, glad you found my japan itinerary useful. I have suggested accommodations to stay in each location on this itinerary not just kyoto. you’ll find hotel recommendations in osaka, hiroshima, and tokyo. hope this helps and enjoy your trip!

Hey Jonny! I have two more questions:

1) I’m thinking about cutting out the activities on Day 4 so I can check out Kobe too! If I did this, how would you re-arrange the itinerary so it’s the most convenient for travel? Would you just insert Kobe to Day 4 or insert it the day before Hiroshima since it’s closer via location?

2) Also, would you spend a night in Kobe or just a day trip and sleep back in Osaka since it’s not far?

Much appreciated!

I would suggest stopping into Kobe on the way down to Hiroshima for a day trip, or half-day trip, makes more sense in terms of the location between Osaka and Hiroshima. Otherwise, yes, on day 4 you could skip activities and head to Kobe for the day, perhaps even stay the night, and then head to Hiroshima afterward. I hope that helps in some way!

Thanks again Melon! If you’re ever in South Korea hit me up and I can show you around. Gyeongju is known as the “culture capital”, it’s a beautiful place 🙂

A pleasure! South Korea is high on my list, I may take you up on that offer haha! Much appreciated and let me know if there’s anything else I can assist with for your Japan trip!

Sick! I should be here until March 2023, but who knows maybe I’ll stay for a 4th year too haha. Actually, yes, I did have something else:

1) On Day 3, since I’ll go to Nara, would you recommend staying the night instead of heading back to Kyoto? OR does that make the trip to Osaka the next day more difficult from Nara perhaps? OR is there not much to do in Nara at night maybe? What are your thoughts?

Your itinerary looks amazing it’s a big help! I have a question. I’m living in South Korea. On Day 7, would it be best to go all the way back to Tokyo, or is it easier to fly back to South Korea from Fukuoka? On the map, it looks much closer, and there’s a railway all the way there too. What do you think is best??

Hey Marco, you’re most welcome, glad you found this 7 day Japan itinerary useful! It’s not necessary to go all the way back to Tokyo and you could instead depart from Fukuoka. Hope this helps and enjoy your trip!

Thanks again, it really is helpful to me. Your story sounds epic, you’ll inspire others to travel for sure! I decided to fly in and out of Osaka and cut out Tokyo altogether for simplicity. My friend recommended the Kansai Thru Pass instead of the JR Rail as a budget-friendly alternative since I’ll be in the Kansai region for the majority of the trip. I’ll use a few of your affiliate links too so you can get paid for your efforts 🙂 Respect!

Amazing mate, you’re welcome!! Many thanks for using the aff links, it all helps to keep me going!

Very helpful indeed! Help us a lot with a very detailed itinerary. Kudos!

Do you have the updated it Itinerary for 2023? We will be going this last week of April last week. Very concerned with the pricing & places to stay.

Hey Paul, thanks for reading, and glad you found this japan itinerary useful! This is the most up to date itinerary for this year. Japan is generally an expensive country year-round and April is the high season because of the cherry blossoms season. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can help you with. Enjoy 🙂

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4 Best Japan 7-Day Itinerary Suggestions For First Timers (2024 Guide)

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: January 23, 2024

Looking for the best Japan 7-day itinerary suggestions? You came to the right place.

Japan is one of the most exciting places to travel to.  

With the combination of history, culture, and awesome new technology, Japan is right up there on the list of every kind of traveler. 

Are you planning a trip to Japan and having trouble figuring out your Japan itinerary? We can’t blame you. 

With so much to see and do, it can be hard to decide how many different cities to try and visit, which cities to visit, which attractions to prioritize, and more. 

Here we share an overview of the best 7 days Japan itineraries.

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Japan Essentials

We almost always find the best flights to Tokyo and Osaka on Momondo .  It may be worthwhile to compare these with Skyscanner and a new but promising flight aggregator, WayAway .

Don’t lose time upon arrival at the airport and order your Japan travel SIM  or portable WiFi device in advance so that it’s ready and waiting for you at the airport when you arrive.

Having a Japan Rail Pass is often the cheapest way to travel around Japan.

Check out our ultimate Japan travel blog where you can find many more interesting Japan articles to prepare for your trip.

Need help with your Japan trip planning? Check out this post on how to plan your trip to Japan.

Insider tip:  Is this your first Japan trip and are you feeling a bit overwhelmed about planning this trip, what to see, and what to do in Japan? Check out our  Japan travel planner.  This document will help you plan your trip smoothly. 

Best 7-day Japan Itinerary Suggestions

As already mentioned, here we have some of the best Japan 7-day itineraries to help you out. 

Planning a trip to Japan can be quite a daunting task, especially for first-time visitors.  

Our 7-day Japan itineraries will help you narrow down the best way to see and enjoy Japan in just one week.   

Option 1: Spend 7 days in Tokyo

Our first itinerary option appears the simplest – a full 7 days in Tokyo – but it will be anything but bland. 

There are plenty of things to see in Tokyo. There’s plenty of food to try, and new experiences to unlock. This 7-day Tokyo Japan itinerary will surely cover so much.

This option also eliminates the need for long-distance travel between various cities. So, no multiple check-in and check-outs for different accommodations. 

But what to do during those 7 days? Here are our recommendations.  

Start out strong by visiting some of the most well-known districts in Japan with Shinjuku. 

This is a very popular metropolitan area and is ideal for your first day in Japan. 

Visit the impressive and futuristic Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and observe the city from one of its multiple observation decks.

You can also spend time in the massive Shinjuku Gyoen Park, Tokyo’s largest park and popular picnic spot.

This is also one of the best places to watch the cherry blossoms in Tokyo.

How to Get There

Shinjuku-gyoenmae subway station is about 5 minutes away from the Shinjuku entrance. 

Shinjuku Gyoen garden is also within walking distance of the large central Shinjuku station where both JR lines, as well as the metro (Tokyo Metro and Toei lines), stop.

Best Japan Travel Apps for a Stress-Free trip.

Kabukicho and Golden Gai

Kabukicho and Golden Gai are both strong contenders for the evening with Golden Gai being well-known as the home of unique, small, sometimes exclusive bars and eateries.

This is highly recommended as a place to visit to experience authentic Japanese hospitality.

Kabukicho is generally considered one of the top nightlife areas in Tokyo with a wide array of bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and everything in between. 

Don’t forget to pay a visit to Piss Alley. Strolling through these 2 narrow alleys next to Shinjuku station will give you the feeling you are in a Japanese mafia movie.

Shinjuku station is the closest station to Kabuchiko.  It is served by several JR lines and both Tokyo Metro and Toei lines.

Piss Alley is really close to the West Exit of Shinjuku train station.  The two alleys run parallel to the tracks.  You will see the entrance on your right if you face the Shinjuku Dai-Guard train bridge. 

Shibuya 

From here we recommend Shibuya, home to the world-famous scramble crossing.

It is also home to the statue of Hachiko, a dog loved by the entire nation and a representation of loyalty.

There are a number of buildings around the scramble crossing from which you can look down and people-watch.

The most popular of these is the Starbucks overlooking the crossing.

A more pricey but quieter option is the L’Occitane café opposite.

From here we can move on to Harajuku, Tokyo’s pop culture capital.

Takeshita Street is the famous ‘kawaii’ center of Tokyo with plenty of brightly-colored fashion shops, foods (rainbow fairy floss is the current favorite), and more.

If you prefer a more high-end, designer style, Omotesando is just outside of Takeshita St and is home to a number of designer brand flagship stores.

Harajuku is also ideally located to walk through Yoyogi Park and Meiji-jingu Shrine.

Meji-jingu Shrine is one of the largest shrines in Tokyo despite being one of the newer shrines.

It is surrounded by a large forest and Yoyogi Park, which is great for wandering through as it is regularly populated by dancers, musicians, and more.  

Shibuya station is right underneath this crossing.  Take the Hachiko exit.

A common recommendation of where to go in Tokyo from Japanese people is Asakusa.

This area is home to the very impressive Sensoji Temple, one of the oldest temples in Tokyo.

This is also the location of the Kaminarimon Gate, the extremely large lantern gate which appears in many iconic Tokyo photos.

The temple is surrounded by a number of shopping streets.

Many of these shops sell traditional street foods, while others sell various souvenirs.

Due to this being a touristy area, this isn’t the best place to buy souvenirs as the prices tend to be higher than you find in other areas.

Take the Ginza or Asakusa metro line to Asakusa station.  It’s a short 2-minute walk from the station to the entrance gate of the Nakamise shopping street.

After the hustle and bustle of the crowds around Asakusa, Ueno Park is an ideal way to relax and enjoy the greenery.

If you’re interested in zoos, Ueno Park also houses Ueno Zoo , home to some of the few pandas in Japan.

There are also a number of museums in Ueno Park, such as the Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, and more.

However, if you’re not interested in zoos or museums, don’t worry because Ueno Park still has plenty to offer.

Tokyo Skytree is a great way to end the day with panoramic views over the Tokyo night sky.

There are two main observation decks to choose from in Skytree.  

Note that the lines are often very long so we recommend you book skip-the-line tickets. These are currently cheaper when bought in advance than on-site.

Check prices and availability: Tokyo Skytree Tickets

Ueno station is a major hub of JR and is also served by the Ginza and Hibiya metro lines.

Tokyo Disneyland & Tokyo DisneySea

At this point, you might be ready for something a bit different.

Here is where we take what is technically a day trip from Tokyo.

Tokyo Disney consists of Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea but is actually located in the neighboring prefecture of Chiba.

Tokyo Disneyland is similar to many other Disneyland parks, with a few unique Japanese quirks, while Disney Sea is larger and more catered to an adult audience.

Whether you choose to visit just one or both parks, Disney makes for a big day out.  

Take the JR Keiyo or JR Musashino lines to Maihama Station. This is fully covered by the  Japan Rail Pass .  At Maihama station you can change to the Monorail that will take you to the entrance of Disneyland or DisneySea.

Check prices and availability: Disney Tickets

Note that the Monorail is not included in the price of your entrance ticket and is only free for overnight guests to the park. You can also walk from the JR station to the entrance of the parks.  For Disneyland, this would be the best option as the entrance is really close by and only a 5-minute hike.  DisneySea would approximately be a 15-minute hike.

Private transfers  are also available for those who are looking for a comfortable ride to and from Disneyland or DisneySea .

If anime or manga is part of your motivation to visit Japan, you will likely be interested in visiting Akihabara, an area often considered the heart of anime/manga culture in Japan.

This area is home to many shops, big and small, providing all types of anime and manga goods you can imagine.

Even for those not interested in anime or manga, just seeing the sheer variety can be interesting.

Akihabara is also known as Electric City due to the many electronics stores in the area.

While this reputation was gained in the 90s, there are still a good number of these electronics shops around.

This is ideal for anyone interested in the latest electronic gadgets, or for anyone interested in just browsing and seeing some unique niche electronic items.

It is easy to spend an entire day shopping around Akihabara, but if you’re looking to move, the Imperial Palace is a great next stop.

Take the JR train to Akihabara station.

This station is also served by the Hibiya metro line.

Imperial Palace

A short train ride and a 10-minute walk bring you to the Imperial Palace and its amazing gardens.

The East Gardens, Kokyo Gaien National Garden, and the Kitanomaru Gardens are open year-round and provide a welcome respite into nature in the busy city.

The inner grounds are only open to the public during cherry blossom season and select other dates.  

For an exploration of various parts of Japanese history, a visit to the Japanese Sword Museum is a great choice.

Sword-making, and as an extension knife-making, is a proud Japanese tradition and a good sword or knife is considered the work of a craftsman.

Learning about the skill and techniques needed to create these swords is an interesting experience. This is also close to the sumo area of Tokyo, Ryogoku.

Take the JR train to Tokyo station.

This station is also served by the Marunouchi metro line.

Sumo Wrestling, Ryogoku Kokugikan Stadium & Edo-Tokyo Museum

If you are in town during the sumo season – January, May, and September – you can easily book tickets to watch a sumo match at the traditional Ryogoku Kokugikan Stadium.

When and where to buy tickets

Tickets for grand tournaments  go on sale at least a month in advance and you can buy them online.  

Keep in mind that sumo tickets are not cheap and if you don’t want to end up in nosebleed seats you might need to dig deep in your pocket, but if you can swing it, you won’t want to miss watching sumo in the Ryogoku Kokugikan. 

If you will not be traveling to Japan while there is a professional tournament, some sumo stables (houses where wrestlers train and live together) allow visits to view  their morning practice sessions.

The sumo stadium is easy to reach, especially if you are using the JR line.  JR has a station right at the entrance of the stadium, the Ryoguku station.

You can also get there with the Oedo subway line.  The station is also named after the stadium, it is also really close by, but requires a slightly longer walk.

Edo-Tokyo Museum

Next to this stadium is the Edo-Tokyo Museum, another interesting and unique museum.

This museum focuses on the Edo Period of Japan (the 1600s to mid-1800s) but does feature some exhibits closer to the modern-day.

The exhibits are designed to be engaging and interesting in an entertaining way, rather than statically sitting behind glass.

These engaging exhibits, along with the helpful and informative guides make this museum a must-see if you are interested in Japanese history and a great visit even for beginners to Japanese history.  

The museum is right next to the stadium.

Take the JR or Oedo line to the Ryoguku station.

Studio Ghibli Museum

For lovers of Studio Ghibli films, the Studio Ghibli Museum in the Tokyo suburb of Mitaka is a must-visit.

This museum commemorates everything about the whimsical, charming films of Hayao Miyazaki with a range of interesting exhibits.

Original works that have never been published are displayed, along with early drafts of some of Miyazaki’s most famous works.

There is also an on-site café and shop.

However, the museum has a number of rules, one of which is no photos.

When googling this museum, you can only find official photos.

This isn’t for copyright reasons, but rather to maintain the wonder of seeing the art and exhibits for the first time for all visitors.

It is very popular so tickets are only sold in advance and they are sold months in advance, so you need to be very organized about buying tickets for this museum.

From Shinjuku station: Take the JR Chuo Line to the JR Mitaka station.

From the south exit of JR Mitaka Station, it’s a 15-minute walk to the Museum.

Gotokuji Temple

Another flight of whimsy is Gotokuji Temple or the lucky cat shrine.

This shrine is littered with hundreds, if not thousands of ‘maneki-neko’ or lucky cats. It is said to be the birthplace of the very popular figure of the lucky cat.

This shrine is often quiet, making it ideal for avoiding crowds, but it is also one of the more unique shrines in Tokyo.

The temple is located in the area of Setagaya.

From Shinjuku station, it is a 15-minute train ride and a 10-minute walk to the shrine.  

Tokyo Travel Tips

Tokyo is full of interesting and unique ways to learn about Japan and its culture, as well as fun experiences to have regardless of your interests.

Tokyo itineraries

For more details about some of these locations as well as some further suggestions, see our Tokyo itinerary posts:

• 4 days in Tokyo
• 5 days in Tokyo
• 7 days in Tokyo

Where to stay in Tokyo

Shinjuku is a great place to stay for first-timers.

• Luxury Hotel: Park Hyatt Tokyo
• Premium Comfortable Hotel: Hilton Tokyo
• Comfortable Hotel: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

Here is an overview of the best areas to stay in Tokyo.

If you prefer staying in an Airbnb or vacation rental, check out these posts:

• Best Airbnb in Tokyo
• Best Airbnb in Tokyo for families

If you are looking for something special, check out this list of cool hotels in Tokyo.

For those that prefer staying in a ryokan with a private onsen in Tokyo, check out this post.

Public Transport in Tokyo

Looking for the best way to travel around Tokyo? Check out this post in which we share the different possibilities.

Wondering what else Tokyo is famous for, click here. 

Option 2: Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Nagasaki

Day 1-2: osaka.

Osaka is generally considered the second most popular and famous city, ranking second to Tokyo.

Osaka is home to a wide range of attractions, both old and new, combining to form a unique atmosphere.

Two days is usually enough to see the top sights of Osaka without feeling too rushed.

Some of these sights include Osaka Castle, the pride and joy of Osaka. Osaka Castle was first built in 1583, but has since been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times.

It now houses a small museum that provides some relevant history as well as genuine artifacts.

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is surrounded by Osaka Castle Park, a beautiful sweeping park with many picnic spots, flower viewing areas, and more.

One of the best gardens in Osaka Castle Park is Nishinomaru Garden, which is adjacent to Osaka Castle.

This garden is beautiful year-round, but especially in Spring when the cherry blossoms are blooming.

The nearest subway station is Tanimachi Yonchome Station. 

You can get there with both the Tanimachi Subway Line and the Chuo Subway Line.

If you come by train you need to head to the Osakajokoen station which is conveniently located on the Osaka loop line served by JR.

Kuromon Ichiba Market and Namba

Kuromon Ichiba Market is a great place to stop for a walking lunch.

It is a historic marketplace that has been servicing Osaka restaurants and consumers for 150 years.

This is a great place to try various Osaka delicacies, such as Takoyaki or okonomiyaki.

From here, it is a short 10-minute walk to Namba where you can enjoy the lively and energetic atmosphere of Osaka.

Close to Dotonbori, one of Osaka’s most popular landmarks, and Shinsaibashi, one of the best shopping streets to explore, this area is ideal for spending an afternoon and evening.  

Best Osaka Food tours

The closest metro station is Nippombashi Station. From this station take Exit 2, and walk for about 2 minutes, veering to the left, and you’ll be at the market.

The fastest option from Osaka Castle would be to first take the Tanimachi line at Tanimachiyonchome station and change for the Sen-Nichimae line at Tanimachikyuchome station.

The closest JR station is JR Namba station, it’s the terminal of the Yamatoji line.  Leaving Osaka Castle you take the JR Loop Line in Osakajokoen station towards Tennoji station. 

You can change trains at Tennoji station or any of the subsequent stations. From Tennoji station onwards until Imamiya Station both trains stop at all stations.

Osaka Aquarium, Tempozan Ferris Wheel, Osaka Sky Building, and Shinsekai

Osaka aquarium.

For the second day, we recommend visiting the Osaka Aquarium.

The Osaka Aquarium is very popular among domestic tourists due to its variety of fish and marine wildlife.

With 15 different tanks representing different habitats around the Pacific Rim, it is a great way to both learn about the surrounding marine areas and enjoy the beautiful wildlife.

The Osaka Aquarium is located at Osakako Station on the Chuo subway line (take exit 1).

Tempozan Ferris Wheel

It is also close to Tempozan Ferris Wheel, once the largest Ferris wheel in the world and still in the top 25.

This Ferris wheel offers amazing views over Osaka and is a great way to finish off a visit to the aquarium.

Tempozan Ferris Wheel is located at Osakako Station on the Chuo subway line (take exit 1 or 2).

Umeda Sky Building

For more spectacular views, we recommend visiting the Umeda Sky Building, home to a Floating Garden Observatory and unique futuristic design.

The futuristic building is only a 10-minute walk from Osaka station. 

The observatory offers 360-degree views from the open-air deck and windows of the 39 th floor.

Osaka station, the main JR hub in central Osaka, is the closest JR station.  7 JR lines stop at this station including the Osaka loop line, the Hida line, and the Hamakaze line.  

The closest subway station is Umeda Station on the Midosuji line.

In contrast with the futuristic Sky Building, the retro district of Shinsekai is a must-visit.

Largely untouched since the mid-20 th Century, Shinsekai offers a step back in time to nostalgic, retro Japan.

It is also home to Tsutenkaku Tower, once the tallest tower in Asia, and modeled after the Eiffel Tower.

Tsutenkaku has 3 observation decks at different heights.

For more details about our recommendation in Osaka, check out our 2-day Osaka itinerary here.

If you have only one day in Osaka, click here.

Day 3: Make a Day Trip from Osaka

One of the best things about Osaka is how centrally located it is within the Kansai area.  

This makes it ideal to use as a base for day trips to nearby cities that don’t require a longer visit. Here we have some of the top day trips to take from Osaka.  

When talking about day trips from Osaka, Nara often tops the list.

This historic city was once the capital of Japan, before the Kyoto period. There are many famous temples and shrines of great historical significance in the area.

Nowadays, Nara is perhaps more well-known for the deer which roam freely through the city.

They largely converge on Nara Park, which is conveniently close to many of the most famous temples, such as Todaiji and Kofukuji.

The deer are wild, but are accustomed to people and will approach people to beg for food. Vendors throughout the park sell deer cookies that you can feed to the deer.

Nara Park and the surrounding temples are a unique and interesting experience and are located just 30-40 minutes outside of Osaka.

For more information on day trips in Nara, see our previous post here .  

If you have a Japan Rail pass, you can use the JR Yamatoji line. The trajectory is completely covered by the Japan Rail Pass, as well as the Kansai area pass, and takes about 50 minutes.

If you don’t have a JR Pass you might prefer the Kintetsu Nara Line.  The Rapid Express Kintetsu train reaches Nara in only 39 minutes and the Kintetsu station is more centrally located in Nara.

Kintetsu has a faster limited express train but it costs twice as much and it only saves you 5 minutes.

The Kintetsu trains leave from Osaka Namba station.

Tickets for the JR trains ( without having the JR pass) as well as the Kintetsu trains are 810 yen.

Kobe is perhaps most well-known globally for Kobe beef, a very high grade of Wagyu beef.

However, there is much more to see and do in this interesting port city in West Japan. 

Things to do in Kobe

Kobe is one of Japan’s largest port cities and has a long and international history.

It is home to one of Osaka’s largest Chinatowns, and exploring this area can be a great experience, especially if it is around Lunar New Year or another Chinese festival.

This is an ideal opportunity to take a break from Japanese food and experience some Chinese cuisine or the unique Chinese-Japanese fusion that is often served in these areas.

Ikuta Shrine

If you’re looking to experience some more Japanese culture, Ikuta Shrine is just a 10-minute walk from Sannomiya Station. This is one of the largest and most well-known shrines in Kobe.

It has ongoing popularity, partly due to its specialty in love and marriage wishes.

Mt. Rokko Or Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens

For some more nature, Mt. Rokko or Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens are great options.

Mt Rokko is located just outside the city and can be ascended either by a short cable car or a few hours of hiking. The top of the mountain offers beautiful views over Kobe and the port.

There is also a garden to stroll through at the top, as well as a café to enjoy.

The Nunobiki Herb Garden is located closer to Shin-Kobe station and offers a more European atmosphere.

This is also at the top of a mountain, with a ropeway providing access.

Throughout the area, there are various motifs of different European countries and styles.

For example, the “Welcome Garden” is designed around Wartburg Castle, a traditional German castle.

This is a unique way to explore some of Kobe’s international past. Visiting Kobe can be a relaxing experience after the crowds and fast-paced energy of Osaka.  

How to Get to Kobe

Kobe is located in the neighboring prefecture to Osaka and is easily accessible by train.

If you have a JR Rail Pass, you can take a Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka to Shin-Kobe in just 12 minutes.

If you are traveling without the JR Rail Pass, or just want to take a more local train, it is just 22 minutes from Osaka Station to Sannomiya Station (a central Kobe station) on the Special Rapid train. 

Kurashiki is an often under-appreciated small city located a short distance outside the city of Okayama.

Sometimes called the “Venice of Japan”, it is hard to see why so many people skip this treasure of a town. 

Things to do in Kurashiki

Despite being a fairly small city, there is still a plethora of things to enjoy in Kurashiki.

The nickname, “the Venice of Japan”, largely comes from the canal area of the town, which dates back to the Edo Period (1603-1867).

These canals are meticulously maintained, as are the beautiful willow trees which line the canals.

There are a number of traditional buildings in this area that have also been carefully preserved as an homage to traditional architecture and culture.

Many of the buildings were once rice storehouses, as Kurashiki was a key rice distribution center but now serve as museums, traditional displays, teahouses, and more.

Strolling through these traditional streets, and exploring the various museums is a great way to have a quiet yet informative morning.

One of these museums, the Ohara Museum, is quite extraordinary as it houses a large collection of artworks from famous Western artists, such as Picasso, Cezanne, Monet, and El Greco.

The Japan Rural Toy Museum is another unique museum, displaying Japanese toys and cultural artifacts dating from the 1600s through to the 1980s.  

How to get to Kurashiki

Kurashiki is a small city outside of Okayama so the best way to get there is via the Shinkansen to Okayama and then a local train to Kurashiki.

This trip will take about 1.5 hours.

It is also possible to travel on local trains only, however, this will take longer. 

If you are still looking for an alternative day trip out of Osaka, check out our previous list of Osaka day trips .  

Osaka Travel Tips

Itineraries

Here you can find our Osaka itineraries:

• 2 days in Osaka
• 1 day in Osaka
• Best things to do in Osaka at night

Where to Stay

• Where to stay in Osaka
• Best Ryokans in Osaka with Private Onsen
• Best Ryokans in Osaka
• Coolest hotels in Osaka
• Best Airbnb in Osaka
• Best Capsule Hotels in Osaka

Public Transport

Here you can find all info on getting to Osaka.

Here you can find more information on getting around in Osaka.

Day 4-5: Kyoto

Kyoto is known as the traditional and cultural center of Japan and with thousands of shrines and temples to choose from, organizing just a few days can be a daunting task.

We have a number of recommendations to make sure you see the top sights while also getting off the beaten path for some hidden gems.

Kyoto is very large and the sights are spread all throughout the city, meaning it is necessary to arrange your days by district or proximity.

For this reason, we start at Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, and then center the rest of the first day’s activities around Arashiyama.

Kinkakuji is one of the most famous spots in Kyoto, and with its distinctive gold-leaf coating, it’s easy to see why.

The beautiful gold of the temple, the surrounding scenery, the lake, and cultural significance all add to the atmosphere.

However, as this is so popular, it is often very crowded.

Therefore, it is best to get to Kinkakuji early and then move on.

From here, we go to Arashiyama.

In Arashiyama, there is the ever-popular bamboo forest (and a slightly less popular, but just as beautiful one).

Togetsukyo Bridge is another very distinctive sight and is especially popular in autumn when the changing foliage provides a beautiful backdrop.

When walking through the main bamboo forest, you can find Tenryuji temple, the main temple of Arashiyama.

This temple has an amazing walking garden which is ideal for taking a break from the crowds in the bamboo forest.

At the top of the mountain is Iwatayama Monkey Park, where you can observe and buy food for native monkeys.

Near here is Saga Toriimoto Street, a street of traditional houses and businesses.

From Saga Toriimoto, you can easily walk to Adashi no Nenbutsuji Temple and Otagi Nenbutusji Temple, two quiet and peaceful temples.

Adashi no Nenbutsuji has its own mini bamboo grove which is just as beautiful as the larger bamboo forest, and it’s better for photos as there are usually very few or no people around.  

Getting to Arashiyama from the Kinkakuji temple

To get to Arashiyama from the Kinkakuji temple you first  take bus 205  from Kinkakuji-Michi to Kitano-Hakubaicho.  (3 stops) Here you change for the Keifuku Randen Tram Line towards Arashiyama.  You will need to change trams in Katabiranotsuji.

The tram line  is the fastest option to get to Arashiyama but is not covered in the city subway and bus passes mentioned earlier in this article.

If you have a city subway and bus pass or city bus pass you could alternatively  take bus 205  to Nishinokyo-Enmachi (6 stops) where you change for bus 93 to Arashiyama. (18 stops).

Getting to Arashiyama from the Kyoto station

Holders of a  JR pass  are best off taking the JR Sagano Line (JR San-in line) to Saga-Arashiyama station.  The route is completely covered by the JR pass.

Alternative options are offered by the private rail companies  Keifuku railways and Hankyu railways.   These trains leave from other stations relatively close to Kyoto Station.  These are private companies so they don’t accept the JR Pass.

Keifuku trains leave from Omiya station, 30 minutes north of Tokyo station, or from Kitanohakubaicho Station which is still further north.  

The Hankyu trains for Arashiyama leave from Katsura station, west of Kyoto station.  If you’re staying in central Kyoto you can take a Hankyu train at any of the stations along the Hankyu Kyoto line and change trains at Katsura station.

Fushimini Inari Taisha Shrine

On the second day in Kyoto, you can start with an early morning in Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.

This is the headquarters of all the Inari shrines in Japan and is home to thousands of tori gates.

You can also skip ahead to Ginkakuji, the Silver Pavilion.

Fushimi Inari Shrine is located just outside JR Inari Station, the second stop on the JR Nara line starting from Kyoto Station (5 minutes, 140 yen one way from  Kyoto Station , not served by  rapid trains ). The shrine can also be reached after a short walk from Fushimi Inari Station along the Keihan Main Line.

Ginkakuji is often seen as the sister temple to Kinkakuji, but it is subtle and subdued whereas Kinkakuji is bright and flashy.

Ginkakuji is well-known for its sand gardens, moon-viewing area, and commitment to Buddhist design ideals.

From here we move to the Philosopher’s Path, a very popular walking path along the Biwa canals.

This area is especially popular in Spring when cherry blossoms bloom all along the path creating a pink canopy.

Take the Kyoto City Bus No.101, 102, 204 or 205 from Kyoto Station to the Kinkakuji Michi bus stop.

Take the Kyoto City Bus No.12, No.59 to the Kinkakuji Mae bus stop.

Nanzenji Temple

We then come to Nanzenji Temple, one of the most important Zen Buddhism temples in Japan.

Soon after Nanzenji Temple is Chionin Temple, well-known for its enormous sanmon gate at 24 meters tall and 50 meters wide.

This is next to the beautiful Maruyama Park and close to Yasaka Shrine.

Soon after this is the Higashiyama historic district, an area full of traditional architecture, teahouses, museums, and more.

It is also close to Kiyomizudera, another of the top temples of Kyoto.

The nearest subway station is Keage Station on the Tozai Line.

You could also take the bus from Kyoto station to Nanzenji-Eikando-michi bus stop. From here it is a 5-10 minute walk.

Kiyomizudera

Kiyomizudera is famous for its entirely wooden construction, and large viewing platform over the amazing scenery.

We finish the time in Kyoto by exploring the traditional geisha district of Gion.

Kyoto is an amazing city full of famous sites and hidden treasures. For more information on our recommendations, please see our Kyoto itinerary here.  

Take the Keihan Railway Line to Kiyomizu-Gojo Station. From there it is a 20-minute walk.

Take bus #100 or #206 from Kyoto station to Gojo-Zaka or Kiyomizu-Michi bus stop. Walk 10 minutes uphill to the temple.

Kyoto Travel Tips

Kyoto itineraries

• The best Kyoto 2-day itinerary
• What to do in Kyoto at night
• Things to do in Gion at night

Where to Stay in Kyoto

• Where to stay in Kyoto
• Best Kyoto Ryokans
• Best Ryokans in Kyoto with private onsen
• 15 of the coolest hotels in Kyoto
• How to find the best Airbnb in Kyoto

How to Get to Kyoto

Here is more information on How to get to Kyoto .

Here is more information on traveling around Kyoto.

Day 6: Hiroshima

Hiroshima is commonly known as the site of the first atomic bomb dropped on Japan at the end of World War II.

While this event was terrible, the city has used its tragic history to rebuild and create a city that is all about celebrating peace.

Many of the top places to visit in Hiroshima are related to the atomic bomb or WWII, but they are all unique and the various monuments provide an opportunity to reflect on our history.

The best way to start is with Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

This large park is home to a number of memorial spots and is close to others.

The park is also beautiful for just strolling through and enjoying the calm, relaxing gardens. In the center is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.

The museum is carefully arranged to truly communicate the devastation that occurred during the bombing of Hiroshima.

This is done through projections, timelines, exhibits, and genuine historical artifacts.

There are also personal accounts of normal citizens of the day and the rebuilding of the city afterward.

National Peace Memorial Hall

After walking through the park you will find the National Peace Memorial Hall, which houses the names and photographs of all the victims of the atomic bomb, along with accounts from survivors.

Memorial Cenotaph and Flame of Peace

This is right next to the Memorial Cenotaph, a unique monument carefully placed so you can see the Flame of Peace when looking from one end and the A-bomb dome when looking from the other.

The Cenotaph also has the names of all victims engraved on it.

Children’s Peace Monuments

When walking on from the Cenotaph and Flame of Peace, you will find the Children’s Peace Monument, built in memorial of the children who suffered during the bombing of Hiroshima.

It was also built using funds raised by students, both in Japan and internationally.

A-Bomb Dome

Across the river from the Memorial Peace Park is the A-bomb dome, a building that is often considered a miracle of the bombing.

Located right at the center of the blast, half of the building was destroyed but half remained fully intact.

Some see this as representative of Hiroshima, damaged but not destroyed by the bombing.

About 15 minutes from the A-bomb dome is Hiroshima Castle.

Hiroshima Castle

The current castle is a reconstruction as the original was destroyed in the bombing.

The castle houses a museum and balcony on the top level. A short walk from Hiroshima Castle is Shukkeien Garden, a beautiful walking garden.

This garden is like an oasis in the city, with its lovely landscapes, pond, and carefully created scenery.

Car fans may also want to fit in a visit to the Mazda museum to learn more about the history and future of the famous car manufacturer.

For more information about our recommendations in Hiroshima, see our previous post here.  

Day 7: Nagasaki

Nagasaki is similar to Hiroshima in that it is the location of the second atomic bomb in Japan, yet is very different in the rest of its history.

The city is also home to a Peace Park and Museum, yet they are quite different from Hiroshima’s.

Nagasaki Peace Park

The Peace Park in Nagasaki is arranged in two sections.

The Memorial Park features the Peace Fountain and Peace Statue.

It is also located next to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum.

This museum also exhibits artifacts from the day of the bombing, true accounts of survivors, timelines up to the day of the bombing, the day itself, the aftermath, and more.

However, if you feel you got enough from the Hiroshima locations, it is fine to skip the Nagasaki locations.

Nagasaki is one of the more international cities in Japan, as it was once one of the only ports that foreign ships could come to.

For this reason, there is a large and lively Chinatown in Nagasaki which is great to explore.

Kofuku-ji Temple

About 10 minutes from Chinatown is Kofuku-ji Temple, an Obaku Zen temple, also designed in a very architecturally Chinese way.

This makes it quite unique among the standard Japanese designs, and well worth a visit.

Dejima, the area traditionally used by Dutch and Portuguese traders, has also been well-preserved and functions as a sort of museum of the Dutch trade with Japan.

This is located about 15 minutes by walking or 5 minutes by bus from Kofuku-ji Temple.

Mount Inasa

Mount Inasa, a small mountain on the western side of the city, is ideal for panoramic views over the city. It is accessible by a scenic ropeway and is popular for night views over the city.

Mt Inasa is about 15 minutes by bus from Dejima. For more recommendations on what to do in Nagasaki, see our previous post here.   

Option 3: Tokyo, Yudanaka, Kanazawa, Hakone, Tokyo

Day 1 arrive in tokyo and travel to yudanaka-day 2: yudanaka  .

The first day of this itinerary is largely a traveling day as it encompasses both arriving in Tokyo and traveling on to Yudanaka.  

Things to do Yudanaka

Snow monkeys.

The name Yudanaka may not be well-known, but the images of snow monkeys relaxing in warm onsens are very famous and Yudanaka is the location to visit to see these for yourself.

The Jigokudani Monkey Park is home to a number of wild Japanese Macaques as well as some hot springs.

During the winter, the monkeys like to use the hot springs just as humans do, to relax and warm up.

The monkeys are accustomed to humans, meaning visitors can get reasonably close without scaring the monkeys away.  

This area is also home to a number of onsens and onsen towns, which are ideal for warming up yourself after a day out watching the monkeys.

One of the most popular is Shibu Onsen, a small hot spring town with a traditional atmosphere.

There are nine public hot springs located around the town and you can easily wander from one to another.

To see more about our stay in Yudanaka, check out our post here.   

How to get to Yudanaka

If you are traveling by train from Tokyo, it is best to travel directly from Tokyo to Nagano by the shinkansen, then change to a local train to get to Yudanaka.

This will take 2-3 hours, depending on which trains you take. It is important to note that the Nagano Dentetsu Line to Yudanaka is not covered by the JR Rail Pass.  

Day 3-4: Kanazawa

Kanazawa is often referred to as “Little Kyoto” due to the many shrines, temples, historic areas, teahouses, and more, and the similar traditional atmosphere to Kyoto.

However, it has a quieter, more relaxed feel as there are fewer people and fewer crowds.

Kanazawa is home to one of Japan’s top 3 gardens, Kenrokuen. Kenrokuen was designed to be beautiful regardless of the season, with a variety of features that can shine in different seasons.

This is located close to Kanazawa Castle, the historical home of the Maeda Clan, a significant part of Japanese history.

When exploring Kanazawa, you can’t miss the Higashi-chaya district, a historical teahouse district with many traditional teahouses still in business, about a 15-minute walk from Kanazawa Castle.

Some teahouses and traditional houses in the area now function as small museums or displays of traditional culture.

Exploring this area is a unique and interesting way to learn more about Japanese culture.

For more ideas of things to do and see in Kanazawa, see our Kanazawa itinerary here.  

Wondering where to stay in Kanazawa? Check out our overview of the best ryokans in Kanazawa.

Day 5-6: Hakone  

Hakone is a famous hot spring town, well-known for its gorgeous hot springs and amazing views of Mt. Fuji.

The Hakone-Yumoto area has a wide variety of onsens, but there are onsens located all throughout the Hakone area.

Lake Ashi is beautiful to visit to enjoy the natural scenery, views of Mt. Fuji, and its scenic ropeway.

The Hakone Open-Air Museum is also a unique location, with a variety of unique, modern art exhibits located throughout the natural landscape.

Hakone Shrine is ideal to visit to get the postcard-perfect floating tori gate photo. For more suggestions on what to do in Hakone, see our previous post here.   

How to get there   

Hakone is located in Kanagawa and so the best way to get there from Kanazawa is through Tokyo.

This requires taking a shinkansen from Kanazawa to Tokyo, then changing to Odawara Station. Finally, you will need to take a bus from Odawara Station.  

Hakone Travel Tips

Hakone Itinerary

• Best Hakone day trip

Where to Stay in Hakone

• Best Ryokan in Hakone with Private Onsen
• Best Airbnb in Hakone

How to Get to Hakone

Here is more info on how to get to Hakone.

Day 7: Back to Tokyo

After a long week exploring various parts of Japan, we now head back to Tokyo.

For the final day in Tokyo, there are multiple ways to organize the day.

One option is simply to choose any of the days from our 7-day Tokyo option and slot it into the final day here.

Alternatively, you can start the day in Shibuya to see the famous scramble crossing and Hachiko statue before moving on to Harajuku to explore the craziness of Takeshita St and have a relaxing morning tea or lunch at a stylish café on Omotesando.  

In the afternoon, you could either explore Ueno Park and its many museums, landscaped gardens, temples, and zoo.

If you want to stay with the city atmosphere, travel a few stops along the Yamanote line to Akihabara to wander through the anime and manga goods stores and the electronics shops.  

How to get to Tokyo:  

To return to Tokyo from Hakone, there are a few options.

You can return to Odawara and then take either a Shinkansen or a local express train back to Tokyo.

However, depending on where in Hakone you are staying, it may be best to take a train from the local station, such as Hakone-Yumoto Station.  

Option 4: Osaka, Kanazawa, Takayama, Shirakawa-go, Osaka

Day 1: osaka.

Our fourth option starts in Osaka.

The lively energy of this vibrant city is ideal for starting a trip on the right foot.

Whether it’s shopping in Shinsaibashi, exploring counter-culture shops in Americamura, visiting Osaka Castle, or even relaxing at the multilevel super-sent SpaWorld, Osaka is an ideal starting spot.

For more suggestions, see our 1-day Osaka itinerary here . 

Day 2-3: Kanazawa

Kanazawa is perfect for exploring traditional Japanese culture, architecture, and more.

From Kanazawa Castle to the Nagamachi Samurai District, home to many samurai families during the feudal era of Japan and currently home to a number of small museums, Kanazawa has something for everyone.

Omicho Market, one of the best fresh seafood markets due to its proximity to the Sea of Japan, is also a must-visit, especially to taste the amazing seafood dishes prepared fresh on-site.

For more places to go in Kanazawa, please see our Kanazawa itinerary.   

How to Get from Osaka to Kanazawa

The fastest and most direct route from Osaka to Kanazawa is via the Thunderbird Limited Express train from Shin-Osaka station. This takes about 2.5 hrs.  

Day 4-5 Takayama and Shirakawa-go  

Takayama is a great place to visit to experience traditional Japanese design and culture.

Hida Folk Village

Hida Folk Village is a collection of around 30 traditional houses from Edo Period Japan, relocated from the Hida region to Takayama in the 1970s.

The ‘village’ is really an open-air museum, with various houses containing information about different aspects of traditional Japanese culture, daily life, and other interesting features.

Visitors are also able to look inside the houses to get an even better idea of how life in those times worked.  

The Old Town

Takayama also has a well-preserved ‘Old Town’, where a number of houses, businesses, and entire streets have been preserved in their Edo Period style.

Sannomachi Street is perhaps the most well-known in this area due to its well-maintained traditional atmosphere.

There are many businesses in this area that have been operating for centuries.

A number of the houses operate as small museums or display houses showing traditional houses as they would have been during the Edo Period.

To see more about our visit to Takayama, see our previous post here .  

Shirakawa-go  

Shirakawa-go is a traditional village close to Takayama.

Throughout the village, you can see over 100 traditional “gassho-zukuri” houses.

The difference between these houses and the ones in the Takayama Hida Folk Village is that these houses are still in use.

The residents of Shirakawa-go live a fairly traditional existence, with some modern amenities, of course.

This makes it one of the most authentic ways to experience traditional Japan. There are also no other villages like it, making it truly unique.

Shirakwa-go is located an easy 50-minute bus ride from Takayama.  

Day 6-7: Kyoto  

Many first-time visitors to Japan have Kyoto as one of the must-sees, so we’ve added Kyoto to this itinerary.

Well-known for its famous temples, shrines, and castles, it is no wonder that Kyoto continues to be one of the top tourist destinations in Japan.

Whether you prefer the gentle calm of the smaller temples, such as Adashi no Nenbutsuji or Otagi Nenbutsuji, or the bigger, more distinctive features of some of the more famous sites like Kinkakuji or Fushimi Inari Shrine, there is something to entertain and excite everyone in Kyoto.

For more ideas on what to do in Kyoto, see our more extensive Kyoto itinerary here.  

We end this option in Osaka to best access the international airport in Kansai (KIX).  

How to get from Takayama to Kyoto  

From Takayama Station, you can take a Limited Express train to Nagoya Station.

At this point, you can change to Shinkansen directly to Kyoto. This journey takes about 3.5 hours.  

Japan Travel Tips

Here we answer the most common questions you may have.

Are 7 days Enough for Japan?  

7 days is a good amount of time for the first visit to Japan.

While you won’t be able to see and do everything, it is long enough to get a good variety of experiences without getting overwhelmed.

It will also help you to plan a follow-up visit if you want to see more of Japan. 

Is it Worth Going to Japan for a Week?  

It is absolutely worth going to Japan for a week.

While a week can seem short, if you maximize each day that you spend in Japan, you can have an amazing array of experiences – different food, shops, cultural sites, gardens, pop culture sites, and more.  

How Much Do You Need for 7 days in Japan?  

Japan isn’t a cheap country to visit with quite high costs of airfares, accommodation and more. However, there are definitely ways to cut costs and budget carefully.

It also depends on what is important to you on a holiday.

If you want to be able to go shopping without worrying about your budget, maybe you can avoid expensive restaurants.

On the other hand, if you are interested in experiencing the best of Japan’s cuisine, maybe you could avoid or minimize attractions with expensive admission prices.  

Are 7 days Too Long in Tokyo?  

Some first-time visitors may think 7 days is too long to spend in one city when the whole country is there, unexplored.

However, Tokyo is such a large metropolis that you could spend weeks, months, or even years in Tokyo and still not have seen it all.

There is always something new and interesting to discover in Tokyo, even for those who’ve been there multiple times.  

Conclusion  

Japan is a land of great contrast, from the serenity of shrines and temples to the crowds of the city centers.

This can make the process of planning a trip to Japan difficult; what to prioritize and what to avoid.

Our visitor’s guide makes this planning process easy with a variety of 7-day Japan itineraries to suit various travel styles and make your next Japan holiday a success.  

Here you can find our other Japan itineraries:

• 5 days in Japan
• 14 days in Japan
• 3 weeks in Japan

• Travel Planning Guide

The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan

Ready for a 7-day journey to Japan that combines relaxation, adventure, and cultural discovery? We've sifted through a wide range of multi-day guided tours, meticulously analyzing them based on service, price, guest ratings, and activities. These 7-day tours to Japan are the absolute best based on these criteria, so that your trip planning can be easy and fun. They offer the perfect balance between a leisurely holiday and thrilling escapades, allowing you to immerse yourself in the essence of each destination for a full week. From exploring iconic landmarks to savoring the local cuisine, every moment of these tours is designed to provide an enriching and unforgettable experience. Get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime and make the most of your week-long escape with one of these amazing tours below.

• 7-Day Japan Delight: Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto 7 Days, $1599.00
• Highlights of Japan - 7 Days 7 Days, $1460.02
• Independent Tokyo & Kyoto City Stays 7 Days, $3009.00

Which 7-day tour options are available in Japan?

Here are the important factors:

• 6 trip options analyzed
• $346 average price per day (USD)
• 4.67 of 5 average rating
• 19 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of tours lasting 7 days in Japan, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.67 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 19 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. With our thorough analysis of 6 tours lasting 7 days, we've found the best. So rest assured that Japan has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 6 Best 7-Day Tours in Japan

7-day japan delight: tokyo, mt. fuji, kyoto.

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for tours lasting 7 days.
• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

This 7-day journey is ideal for guests from 2 to 88 years old. And priced at only $228 per day, it's a great value, too. You'll love the emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, too. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Tokyo. It's offered by Intertrips , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

• Sightseeing
• In-depth Cultural

Highlights of Japan - 7 Days

Priced at just $209 per day, this terrific 7-day journey is ideal for guests from 2 and up. Explore 5 incredible locations on this trip, including Fuji, Hamamatsu, and Osaka. Your journey starts off in Tokyo and finishes in Osaka. Organized by the reputable Tomato Travel , this is one of the best tours on this list.

• Train & Rail

Independent Tokyo & Kyoto City Stays

Check out this incredible trip that has received a 5 out of 5 rating from previous guests. And since the priority is on local culture and family-friendly activities, this tour is a great choice. With a duration of 7 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 12 people, and is good for guests from 5 to 80 years old. Your journey will begin in Tokyo and end in Kyoto. This fantastic option, organized by Globus , presents an unbeatable value at just $430 per day.

Tokyo Anime Adventure - 7 days

Spanning over 7 days, this voyage has a maximum size of 18 individuals. Welcoming guests from 18 to 55 years old, it is organized by On The Go Tours , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. Tokyo will be both the start and end of your journey. Available at an unbeatable price of only $199 per day, this option also has a rating of 4 out of 5 stars from previous guests.

Best of Japan with Cherry Blossom & Mt. Fuji (2-6pax,Group Tour)

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional voyage that has garnered a 5 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 7 days, this jouney will have 6 participants, and it warmly welcomes travelers of all ages. Expertly organized by Odynovo , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $533 per day.

7 Days Customized Best Japan Tour, Private & Daily Departure

• On Sale: 20% Off See Prices

This memorable trip is offered by Agate Travel which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $480 per day. Along the way, this journey encompasses 5 destinations, including Mount Fuji, Kyoto, and Nara. Your journey will begin in Tokyo and end in Osaka. The maximum group size is 4 people, welcoming travelers of all ages. Act fast to take advantage of the current sale.

• Festival & Events

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan , The Best Historical Tours in Japan , The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan , The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan , The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Japan , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Japan , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan , The Best Adventure Tours to Japan , The Best Eco Tours in Japan , The Best Train & Rail Tours in Japan , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan , The Best Cultural Tours in Japan , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Japan , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Japan , The Best Luxury Tours to Japan , The Best Budget Tours to Japan , The Best Tours for Seniors to Japan , The Best Contiki Tours to Japan , or The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Fukuoka , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Osaka , The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo , The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo , The Best 2-Week Tours from Osaka , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Kyoto for more package tour options.

How much do 7-day tours to Japan cost?

Travelers to Japan will have a large number of terrific options for tours lasting 7 days at a variety of great prices. The price of tours lasting 7 days here can vary by type, destinations, length, and travel style. Based on thorough data from 6 tours lasting 7 days, their average daily price is a very reasonable $346 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Japan .

And for more information on Japan, see Japan Travel Costs and Japan Hotel Costs .

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7-Day Japan Adventure: Tokyo and Kyoto Tour

Begin in Tokyo, a dynamic metropolis where modernity meets tradition. Delve into the bustling streets, immerse in diverse neighborhoods, and explore historic landmarks. Then, venture to Kyoto, a city steeped in ancient traditions, boasting stunning temples, serene gardens, and a profound cultural heritage. Witness the beauty of traditional geisha districts and experience the Zen ambiance. This thoughtfully curated itinerary offers the perfect blend of Japan's contemporary vibrancy in Tokyo and the serene, cultural richness of Kyoto, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a concise yet immersive experience of Japan's two iconic cities. Book now for an unforgettable Japanese journey.

We can customize this trip by adding anything you're interested in and scheduling days to fit your pace. We would happily organize a unique theme or activities for birthdays, young children, anniversaries, etc.

• Best For: Slow Pacers and Couples
• Departure date: Up to you
• Sample Price: On request

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Tour Highlights

Here are the fantastic attractions, the most must-do activities selected by Asia Highlights (AH Hand-Picked), and exclusive cultural experiences offered by Asia Highlights (Only With AH) included in this tour:

Learn about Japanese emperors by visiting the Imperial Palace and the Meiji Shrine.

Journey through both contemporary and historic epochs of japan to gather captivating tales of your own., understand japan more deeply by visiting kyoto's world heritage sites ., take a walk through arashiyama's famous bamboo groves and visit a great zen temple, tenryuji temple , one of kyoto's unesco world heritage sites., suggested itinerary for inspiration.

The itinerary serves as a mere example of a personalized tour, designed exclusively for you. Your preferences will shape the authentic journey. We are fully prepared to craft an tailor-made tour that fulfills your desires.

Your private guide will be ready to meet and greet you at the arrival hall in Tokyo. A comfortable private car with an experienced driver will transfer you directly to your hotel. Your guide will help you to check-in.

Meiji Jingu Shrine: Nestled amidst a serene forest, Meiji Jingu Shrine offers a peaceful escape in the heart of Tokyo. The shrine grounds provide scenic walking paths, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Here, you can partake in various Shinto rituals—making offerings at the main hall, purchasing charms and amulets, or writing wishes on ema tablets. Don't be surprised to catch a traditional wedding procession on Sunday mornings, a captivating sight with the bride in a white kimono and hood, accompanied by the groom in a formal black robe, under the guidance of Shinto priests.

Shibuya: A bustling epicenter for Tokyo's youthful energy, Shibuya is a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the city. With iconic attractions like the scramble crossing, this area is the epitome of trendy youth culture, promising an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Anime Cafe: No visit to Tokyo is complete without experiencing an anime-themed cafe! Even if you're not an avid fan, these cafes offer a unique and captivating experience that's hard to find anywhere else in the world. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy this immersive and quirky atmosphere—be ready for fun and be sure to capture memorable moments through photos!

Harajuku: An eclectic fashion district surrounding Harajuku Station, this area is a hotbed of style nestled between Shibuya and Shinjuku. Takeshita Street, the area's focal point, hosts a blend of boutiques flaunting the latest trends and photo-worthy food. Wander through blocks showcasing diverse styles—from Harajuku goth to candy-colored decora kei and punk fashion. Indulge in a variety of snacks, including classic crepes, rainbow grilled cheese, giant cotton candy, and Korean hattogu. Stroll down Cat Street towards Shibuya, exploring hipster cafes, vintage fashion stores, and international brands.

Sensoji Asakusa: Explore Tokyo's oldest temple, Sensoji, home to a sacred statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Wander through grand gates, a towering five-story pagoda, and Nakamise Dori's vibrant stalls. Discover the spiritual essence and bustling marketplace at this iconic destination, offering a glimpse into Tokyo's cultural heritage.

Tokyo Skytree: Towering over Tokyo's skyline, the Tokyo Skytree stands at an astounding 634 meters, granting breathtaking panoramic views of the city. On clear days, the vista includes glimpses of the majestic Mount Fuji, offering an unforgettable sight for visitors.

Tsukiji Fish Market: While the inner wholesale market has moved to Toyosu, the outer market of Tsukiji remains a lively area filled with diverse food stalls and shops. Known for its high-quality seafood, the market is a haven for fresh produce, seafood, and authentic Japanese delicacies. Explore the stalls and relish the opportunity to savor a variety of seafood delights, from sushi and sashimi to grilled fish and seafood bowls.

Sushi-making Experience with Lunch: Dive into the art of sushi, from the ocean to your plate, with a sushi-making class and an enlightening visit to the fish market. Embark on a guided tour of one of the world's largest seafood markets, learning about the process of catching, distributing, and selling fish. Under the guidance of a sushi master, delve into the art of preparing nigiri sushi. Cap off your adventure by relishing your freshly made creations during a delightful sushi lunch.

Tokyo to Kyoto Express by Nozomi Train (Standard Class Ticket, Duration: 2 hours 21 minutes): Experience a swift journey from Tokyo to Kyoto aboard the Nozomi Train. This ticket provides a comfortable, direct trip without transfer or guided services. Please note that prices do not include additional transfer or guiding services.

Nishiki Market in Kyoto is a renowned traditional food market known for its vast array of fresh, seasonal foods, and its unique and authentic atmosphere. This centuries-old market is a favorite among both locals and tourists. Visitors can enjoy a delightful variety of traditional Japanese foods and snacks, such as sushi, pickles, mochi, and matcha. Many vendors offer free samples, allowing visitors to savor different flavors and find their preferred treats.

Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is among the seven Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. This expansive site includes two concentric rings of fortifications, the Ninomaru Palace, the ruins of the Honmaru Palace, and exquisitely designed gardens.

Kinkakuji, or the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen temple located in northern Kyoto, featuring its top two floors completely covered in gold leaf. Originally the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu's retirement villa, the temple transformed into a Zen temple of the Rinzai sect following his passing in 1408. The striking structure overlooks a large pond and stands as the sole surviving building from Yoshimitsu's former complex, having faced destruction multiple times in history, notably during the Onin War and in 1950.

Fushimi Inari Shrine, situated on the outskirts of Kyoto, is a sacred religious site recognizable from the movie "Memoirs of a Geisha". The path lined with red-painted toriis (memorial arches) provides a picturesque setting, ideal for capturing memorable photos.

The Gion District is renowned for its association with the traditional geisha culture. Stroll through these charming streets and witness the captivating presence of geiko, referring to themselves as "women of art," adding an alluring touch to Kyoto's unique ambiance.

Nonomiya Shrine: Tucked within the enchanting bamboo forest of Arashiyama in Kyoto, the Nonomiya Shrine holds historical significance as a former sanctuary for princesses. Long ago, it served as a preparatory residence where unmarried princesses underwent purification before they embarked on their service as high priestesses at the esteemed Ise Shrine.

Bamboo Grove: The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove stands as an iconic and unforgettable attraction in Kyoto. Located in the Sagano village on the city's west side, this short yet immersive pathway through the bamboo forest leaves a lasting impression. The play of dappled light filtering through the dense forest adds a touch of magic to the experience.

Our guide will help you transfer from your hotel to Kyoto Airport for departure with independentcar/van and guide.

Our Service Includes:

• Private transfers and English-speaking tour guide
• All guided sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
• Hand-picked star-rating accommodations
• Breakfasts at hotels and lunches for every guided day
• Governmental taxes

Tour code: ah-jp-cx-10

Inquire now! Your 1:1 travel consultant will reply within 1 working day.

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Adults number (age ≥ 18 years old)

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7 Days Essence of Spring Tour - Cherry Blossom Seasonal Tour

• From Tokyo To Kyoto(Osaka)
• Friday, February 23, 2024 Updated

2024 Spring Tours

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Saving up to 15% Off Cherry Blossom Tours

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Tour Descriptions

• Dates & Quote
• Accommodations

Tour Departure and Prices 1) Price per person.    2) Airfare is not included.  

Tour Includes

• - Travel Insurance
• - Optional Excursions

Travel Highlights

Important information, maximum group size.

The maximum number of participants will not exceed 26 people during your Japan tour. Your group may be joined with other tour groups during the tour. Please note that your bus and tour guide may be changed if other groups join the tour.

Single Supplement

Single travelers are required to pay a single supplement in order to guarantee single room accommodation.

We request one suitcase, one carry-on bag, and an overnight bag per person. The tote bag we provide can be used to hold any small merchandise/souvenirs purchased during your tour. When you check out, bring your luggage to the lobby and the bus driver will assist in loading it onto the bus. When you arrive at the next hotel, the bus driver will unload your luggage for you to bring to your room. Please note: The maximum weight of a checked in bag is typically 20 Kilograms or 44 Pounds. You will be traveling with your luggage except during the bullet train ride (if applicable).

Accommodation

All hotel rooms come with a full bathroom and room amenities free of charge unless stated otherwise.

Transportation

All motor coaches come equipped with air-conditioning, plenty of space, comfortable seats, and Wi-Fi.

International Flights

All of our tours begin in either Tokyo or Osaka/Kyoto. When beginning or ending a tour in Tokyo, please book flights to or from Narita International Airport or Haneda International Airport. For tours beginning or ending in Osaka/Kyoto, please book flights to or from Kansai International Airport or Itami Airport. We recommend you do not book your flights until the tour status changes from Book Now to Guaranteed Departure . You can also contact us if you would like for Japan Deluxe Tour's to arrange your flights.

Fitness & Shoes

Traveling and visiting sights in Japan includes a good amount of walking. To fully enjoy the tour, please be prepared to keep up with the pace of the group, climb stairs with no difficulty, and wear comfortable shoes for all day use.

Guests with tattoos may not be able to use the hot-springs or onsens while in Japan. We apologize if you are unable to enjoy this experience during your stay.

Cherry Blossom Viewing

We cannot guarantee cherry blossoms will be in full bloom for viewing during this tour. Please refer to our Cherry Blossom Forecast page for updates and information about Sakura Cherry Blossoms and when they are expected to bloom in select cities.

Meals & Dietary Requirements

Please notify us before your tour starts if you have any dietary restrictions or requirements we should be aware about. Japan Deluxe Tours can provide Vegetarian meals for guests, and we will do our best to cater to any serious allergies or dietary restrictions. We will not be able to substitute or change meals after your tour begins.

• B :Breakfast

Dining Experience

Kaiseki Ryori

Seasonal Japanese Dining

Cultural Experience

Green Tea Ceremony

Maiko Dining Experience

Japanese Style Hotel

Sake Tasting

Japanese Museum

Riding experience.

Bullet Train

Keep connected to the internet during your tour with a data SIM Card. This only provides wifi connection, not a phone number. ※Please check if your device is compatible with the SIM Card. ※If you live outside the U.S., you cannot select the SIM card.

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• All ground transportation
• All admission fees as listed
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7-Day Guided Tour in Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Nara and Osaka

• Five nights in a 4- or 5-star hotel, one bathing experience in a hot spring hotel.
• Professional Driver and Guide (or Driver-Guide) .
• In-hotel breakfast and five special meals listed in the itenerary.
• Admission tickets listed in the itinerary and service fees: Kinkakuji, Great Buddha of Kamakura.
• Tokyo Night Tour (If option selected).
• Entry/Admission - Kinkakuji Temple
• Flight tickets, taxes, visa fees and passport processing fees.
• Person fees such as laundry, haircut,telephone,fax,pay TV, drinks, tips and any additional expenses.
• Any personal expenses that are not listed in the Fees Included.
• Tokyo Night Tour (If option not selected).
• Entry/Admission - Osaka Castle Park
• Entry/Admission - Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street
• Narita International Airport (NRT)； Free airport pick-up time on the first day of your tour: 13:00, 16:00, 19:00 and 22:00. Please make sure to meet with our staff at the listed time slots with your claimed baggage. Please make sure to be at the meeting point on-time. Tokyo International Airport (HND)； Free airport pick-up time on the first day of your tour: 14:00, 17:00 and 20:00. Please make sure to meet with our staff at the listed time slots with your claimed baggage. Please make sure to be at the meeting point on-time. Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX)； For detailed information, please refer to the last day’s itinerary.
• Narita Airport, 1-1 Furugome, Narita 282-0004 Chiba Prefecture
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• 1. Customer under 18 years old MUST be accompanied by at least one adult. A guardian traveling with children must provide proof of custody or notarized parental authorization for travel.
• 2. Please be sure to provide accurate and complete information upon booking. This includes name, gender, valid documents (passport, visa etc.), valid contact information (preferably a mobile phone), accurate flight information, tour location, etc., This helps to avoid any errors upon the reservation because errors affect travel. Any losses due to inaccurate or invalid information will be at your own cost and the company will not be held responsible.
• 3. Hotel accommodation in Japan is arranged in a two-person room, and the room type cannot be specified. During the consecutive holiday period in Japan, the hotel is very nervous. If the room is full, some hotels have the right to upgrade the guest to a single room for one person for free, or adjust the order of hotel check-in, hotel area, hotel level, etc. In addition, each hotel has a different method of charging the deposit, which requires the cooperation of the group guests according to different regulations. Seagull guarantees the number of rooms for guests, but does not guarantee the specific room type and location.
• 4. Any guests that have already purchased their own tickets or have a city PASS will not be able to use it on the tour. Please understand that you must purchase the admission tickets through our company in order to participate. For the optional admission tickets, you will reserve it from the tour guide directly. The tour guide will make this arrangement for you. As a tour group, it is highly suggested to make a reservation together rather than individually in order to get into an attraction. We greatly appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Thank you again for choosing to tour with us! 
• 5. Operator have the right to make appropriate adjustments to the itinerary under the conditions of facilitating the operation for the tour group. This, however, will not reduce the items that should be included in the itinerary.
• 6. During the actual trip, the tour guide or driver has the right to appropriately adjust the tour sequence, stay time or assembly time of scenic spots according to the weather, traffic, and other conditions to ensure the smooth progress of the trip.
• 7. If the scenic spots are temporarily closed or closed on a particular holiday, etc., the tour guide will adjust the appearance according to the actual situation or replace the location with another scenic spot to ensure the richness of the itinerary.
• 8. Normal health conditions are required to participate and enjoy our full itineraries. Contact us for specific policies or information regarding passengers with disabilities who do need to provide advance notification to make a reservation. Operator do not guarantee a wheelchair lift-equipped bus and/or seating availability to disabled passengers without prior notification and approval.
• 9. Guests are required to bring their own relevant documents and materials required for entry or cross-border travel. Whether they can enter or leave the country is subject to the decision of the customs of each country. The inability to enter the country is a force majeure factor, and the paid tour fee will not be refunded.
• 10. According to the regulations of the Japan Tourism Bureau, during the group itinerary, tourists are not allowed to leave the group itinerary and move on their own, otherwise all the consequences will be at their own risk.
• 11. Gift items in the itinerary that cannot be given away due to force majeure factors such as traffic and weather conditions or personal reasons may be subject to change. Please understand that the fees will not be refunded.
• 12. Smoking is prohibited aboard the bus in accordance with law and prohibited in most hotel rooms. Customers are responsible for any penalty charged by the hotel in a non-smoking room.
• 13. Luggage is subject to inspection when crossing international borders. You will be asked to declare any items subject to duty upon crossing the border. Operator are not responsible for any luggage crossing international borders. Passengers must claim all luggage at the border crossing point before proceeding. No luggage is allowed across the border unless claimed by a passenger. Operator will not provide free transportation to
• 14. If there are free activities in the group itinerary, if guests have their own itinerary, please pay attention to financial and personal safety. Do not contact the local informal travel agency without permission for activities. If personal injury, legal liability or property damage, etc. arises from this, the guests shall bear the corresponding responsibility.
• 15. According to Japan's national conditions, Japanese people are very aware of energy saving and environmental protection. In view of this, the driver also has requirements for the time to start the air conditioner of the tour bus. Tourists may enter the tour bus after the tour and the temperature is not suitable. , please calm down and wait for the air conditioner to adjust the temperature, and understand the situation where it does not change.
• 16. The items purchased by the guests themselves during the overseas itinerary belong to the personal consumption behavior of tourists. According to the Japanese Commodity Management Regulations, once the goods are sold, they will not be returned or exchanged. Please consider carefully before purchasing. If there is any product dispute or loss arising therefrom, the VIP shall be responsible for it, and the travel agency shall not bear any responsibility.
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 55 travelers
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
• Kinkakuji Temple
• Yokohama Minato Mirai 21
• Yokohama Chinatown
• Tokyo Tower
• Senso-ji Temple

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7-Day Guided Tour in Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Nara and Osaka provided by Jupiter Legend Corporation

• Japan Daily Guided Tours

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan on one of our daily guided tours, meticulously crafted to showcase the best of this fascinating country. Led by expert local tour guides, our guided tours depart every morning from various locations across Japan, taking you to iconic destinations and attractions that offer an immersive and authentic experience without the hassle of planning the details, alongside a group of other eager travelers. Whether you’re based in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, or any other city in Japan, we have daily tours designed to suit your interests and preferences. From the vibrant streets of Tokyo to the serene gardens of Kyoto, our daily group tours cover all the key sites in Japan, including iconic landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural treasures. We offer a range of pre-designed guided tours on our website, and we can also create custom itineraries for private groups who want to maximize their free time in Japan. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, taking a tour is a fantastic opportunity to explore Japan and connect with like-minded travelers. Let us be your expert guide on this journey, and create unforgettable memories on one of our guided day trips in Japan.

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