Visiting Japan - 10 Day Itinerary

Japan, a country where ancient traditions blend with futuristic innovation, is a wonderful destination for all types of travelers. Our most recent trip was in 2024 and here is an overview of our ideal 10-day journey through Japan, where we visited vibrant cities like Tokyo and Osaka, the serene temples in Kyoto and the serene Mount Fuji. Whilst we didn't visit Hiroshima, Takayama or Nara in our 2024 trip, we have visited these destinations previously and would strongly recommend adding these to your trip if you can fit them in.

Leaving Australia, we flew into Osaka as we found flights were cheaper to fly in and out of Osaka rather than Tokyo. As we arrived late at night, we pre-booked a private transfer with Airport Taxi Transfers to meet us at the airport and drop us off at our accommodation. Highly recommend this as an option - particularly if travelling with a group and to avoid language barriers with taxis or buying train tickets.

Hotel - Travelodge Honmachi Osaka. This hotel offers a fabulous breakfast.

Day 1 - Osaka

On our first morning we walked to the Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city’s history and culture.

Highly recommend pre-booking entrance tickets to the Osaka Castle to avoid waiting in any lines. We were able to walk straight in and past the line that was already forming early in the morning. Inside, you have the ability to purchase tickets to dress up as samurais, which is a fun experience!

At the top of the Castle, you will also have fantastic views of the city!

After some lunch we headed to Kyocera Dome where we had purchased baseball tickets. Baseball is an institution and taken seriously in Japan and highly recommend going to at least 1 game. You can't help but stand up and get into the cheering, chanting and banging of sticks (regardless of which team you are going for).

After the baseball game we went in search of dinner and headed to Dotonbori, which is a vibrant district known for its neon lights and street food in Osaka. This is where you can try Osaka’s famous takoyaki (octopus-filled dough balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancake). Here you will also be able to buy tickets to ride the Don Quixote outdoor ferris wheel. Make sure you take a photo with the neon lights at nighttime along the river. The area does get very busy and crowded - particularly at night - but the atmosphere is electric and infectious!

Day 2 - Kobe

Catch a train to Kobe, which takes about 30 mins. There are 3 different train companies that can take you to Kobe - just avoid taking the shinkansen as the station is outside of the Kobe city centre. There are 2 city loop buses that you can use when in Kobe - we ended up walking the day as we couldn't make the buses line up with where we were.

Kobe is a port city that offers a unique blend of cosmopolitan charm, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a food lover, a history buff, or someone who enjoys breathtaking views, Kobe has something to offer. Kobe is also famous for its Kobe beef - there is so many different venues offering this delicacy.

We started the day by visiting the Ikuta Shrine, one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan. Nestled in the heart of Kobe’s downtown, this peaceful sanctuary is dedicated to the goddess Wakahiru-me and is believed to bring good fortune in love and relationships.

We then enjoyed some of Japan's famous fluffy pancakes at A Happy Pancake restaurant. You will need to make a reservation at any of the Happy Pancake restaurants across Japan - but we found getting a reservation in Kobe easier.

In the afternoon we visited the Kobe harbour area, a scenic waterfront area with shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. The area is perfect for strolling, and the views of the Kobe Port and the towering Kobe Port Tower are simply stunning. We then caught the train back to Osaka - with another night exploring the Dontonbori area for local food options.

Day 3 - Early morning shinkansen train to Kyoto

Hotel - Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande - highly recommend this hotel as it was so central to public transport and restaurants and the staff were so helpful.

As our hotel was right beside the main Kyoto train station we were able to easily drop off our bags and return to the train station and catch a local bus to begin exploring Kyoto. Our hotel was also able to sell us the public transport travel passes.

We caught bus 206 with our first stop being Kiyomizu-dera Temple . Kiyomizu-dera is one of the most famous and celebrated temples in Kyoto.  The temple was founded in 778 AD and contains buildings from the 17th century, including a main hall designated as a National Treasure.  The temple’s wooden stage is undoubtedly what the temple is most famous for, offering an outstanding panoramic view of Kyoto.

Near the Kiyomizu-dera temple is the steep but famous Sannenzaka shopping street.  Composed almost entirely of traditional wooden buildings, on these streets it’s easy to feel as if you’ve slipped back in time as you watch women dressed in traditional kimonos.  Whether it’s incense, figurines, accessories, Kyoto sweets, tea, or souvenirs, you’re bound to find it here.

We kept walking for about 20 mins to reach the Gion district and the Yasaka Shrine or Jinja. As you approach, the first thing you’ll notice is its striking large vermilion torii gate that marks the entrance to the shrine. The bold color of the gate is an iconic symbol in Shinto architecture. You’ll find several ways to immerse yourself in the rituals of the shrine, such as purchasing omamori (good luck charms), ema (wooden prayer plaques), and omikuji (fortune slips).

Gion is also home to the famous geishas - you might see local geishas or maikos (apprentice geishas) passing through the shrine as part of their daily rituals. Just be mindful and respectful of Japanese traditions and not take photos of geishas.

After lunch. we caught another bus up to the Kinkaku-ji temple. The Kinkaku-ji or Golden Pavilion is nestled in the outskirts of Kyoto, so the bus ride will take approximately 30 mins. This Zen Buddhist temple, is famed for its stunning golden exterior and peaceful surroundings, making for a lovely walk through the gardens.

Day 4 - Kyoto

Recommend an early start to catch a short train trip to Inari to visit the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine - it is best to visit this Shrine early in the morning, before the crowds arrive and to appreciate the beauty and peacefulness of this Shrine. One of Japan’s most iconic and spiritually significant landmarks, Fushimi Inari Shrine is a must-visit destination. Known for its striking thousands of red torii gates that wind through the mountainside, Fushimi Inari is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice, agriculture, and prosperity.

You can easily spend half a day here. For those who are physically fit and up to it (there are a lot of stairs!), the walk up Mount Inari offers fantastic views. The entire trail to the top of the mountain is about a 2-3 hour walk. Along the trail, you’ll pass smaller shrines, stone fox statues, and a peaceful forest of cedar trees that create a calming and serene atmosphere.

Catch a train back to Kyoto - at the train station catch bus 101 to Nijo Castle, which is located in the heart of Kyoto. Nijo Castle is one of Japan's most significant and well-preserved historical landmarks. Built in 1603 as the residence of the first Tokugawa shogun, Ieyasu Tokugawa. As you step inside, you’ll be able to explore the various rooms, including the Shogun’s Audience Room, where the shogun held meetings with important officials. of the most fascinating aspects of the Castle is its “Nightingale Floors” (or Uguisu-bari), designed to chirp or creak when walked upon, mimicking the sound of a nightingale’s song. This clever design served as a security measure, alerting the shogun to any intruders. You can finish the day by walking around the Castle's gardens

Day 5 - Early morning shinkansen to Tokyo

Hotel - APA Hotel & Resort Ryogoku Eki Tower

From the shinkansen station, we needed to catch a subway to Ryogoku station. Right beside the hotel is the Sumo training facility, stadium and museum. Unfortunately, there were no competitions on whilst we were in Tokyo, but we could hear them training.

We caught a subway train to Shinjuku and walked to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, which has spectacular views of Tokyo and the entrance is free! There are two towers to choose from, but you can easily get away with only visiting one of the towers.

Nearby are the Shinjuku National Gardens - if you are here during cherry blossom season it will be in full bloom and colour! But you can enjoy the gardens anytime of the year.

Whilst in Shinjuku, try and find Godzilla's head. This attraction can be found at Kabukicho Street, located atop the 8th floor lobby of Hotel Gracery Shinjuku. Just look up and you will see it!

From here we caught a subway to Harajuku to visit the Meiju Jingu. Meiji Jingu is located in Yoyogi Park, and the vast grounds are lined with 100,000 trees, which were donated from all over Japan. These trees create a natural barrier that filters the noise and chaos of the city, creating a calm and reverent atmosphere. It’s one of the largest inner-city forests in Japan, and walking through its paths feels like entering a secluded sanctuary.

Afterwards, we made our way to Shibuya. Here we grabbed something to eat and then crossed the famous Shibuya crossing and visited the statue of the famous Hachiko. Make sure you take a few moments to line up for a photo. Located just outside Shibuya Station, the statue commemorates the story of Hachiko, an Akita dog whose unwavering loyalty to his owner, even after death, touched the hearts of millions and is a national icon, even today.

Then we finished the day with our pre-booked tickets to the Shibuya Sky. This attraction is very popular for sunset and nighttime visits so make sure you book your tickets as soon as you can. Highly recommend visiting at nighttime!

Tourist Map that I found very handy

Day 6 - Day trip to Disney

Getting to Tokyo Disney from Ryogoku did take a few train changes on different train lines. If you are visiting Disney for a few days then would recommend booking accommodation closer to avoid wasting time on public transport.

We chose to go to DisneySea as it is unique to Japan. Whilst we are mad Disney fans and have visited a number of Disney theme parks around the world, DisneySea just didn't live up to expectations and lacked that magical feeling.

Day 7 - Day trip to Kawaguchiko / Mt Fuji

We had pre-booked bus transport to Kawaguchiko from Tokyo. However, on the day we had planned to go there was torrential rain so we elected to go shopping instead. However, this is what we had hoped to do - with a map below.

1. Head to the cable car / ropeway to Tenjoyama Park. You can walk the 15mins from Kawaguchiko station or hop on the tourist bus from the station.

2. Hire a pedal boat and explore the lake

3. Take bus to end of red line stop 20 and visit the Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center. Eat lunch at the cafe in the center.

4. Catch a bus back to stop 13 and walk across the Kawaguchiko-ohashi bridge

5. Take a train from Kawaguchiko Station to Fujisan Station and walk to the famous Chureito Pagoda. You can follow the signs to the Arakura Sengen Shrine, which is the location of the Chureito Pagoda. The walk to the pagoda involves a bit of an uphill climb (around 400 steps), but it’s a scenic walk with fantastic views of Mt. Fuji on clear days.

Tourist map of Lake Kawaguchiko

Day 8 - Explore Tokyo

Get up early and make your way to Asakusa to have the obligatory photos in front of the Asakusa Gate, or Kaminarimon. This is one of Tokyo's most iconic landmarks, standing as the entrance to the Senso-ji Temple in the historic district of Asakusa. We arrived around 7.30am and already there was a line of tourists waiting to get photos taken.

From there it was a short walk to the Tokyo Samurai Ninja Musem. Highly recommend booking tickets to this museum! Not only is it very informative but entertaining. Once again, we could dress up as samurais and practice our ninja star throwing abilities.

From Asakusa we caught a subway to explore Ginza and the many shops.

That night we had tickets to another baseball game, this time at the Tokyo Dome.

Day 9 - Early morning shinkansen to Nagoya

Hotel - Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nagoya Sakuradoriguchi

After dropping off our bags at our hotel, we headed to the Nagoya Castle. From Nagoya Station, take the Higashiyama Line on the subway and get off at Sengen-cho Station (about 5 stops). The castle is a 10-minute walk from the station. Nagoya Castle is one of the most famous castles in Japan, known for its impressive architecture and beautiful gardens. The original structure dates back to the early 1600s, and it features the famous shachihoko (tiger-headed fish) adorning the roof. Don’t miss the Honmaru Palace, which was rebuilt to its former glory and offers a glimpse into feudal Japan’s interior design and lifestyle.

In the afternoon, the boys visited the Toyota Automobile Museum as they are mad car enthusiasts. It isn't close to the city centre and is accessible by taking a train: From Nagoya Station, on the Meitetsu Line (Nagoya Main Line) towards Toyohashi, and get off at Kariya Station (about 25 minutes). From Kariya, take the Toyota City Bus to the Toyota Automobile Museum. The total travel time is about 40-45 minutes from Nagoya Station.

Day 10 - Shinkansen to Osaka to depart home

Depending on your departure flight you may be lucky like us and have some time in the morning to explore Nagoya city sights some more and do some shopping before heading off to Osaka.

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Tips

1. Learn some basic Japanese words and phrases - not only does it show respect but can come in handy when visiting the less touristy destinations

2. Be conscious of Japan's culture - for e.g. remove shoes indoors and when in temples

3. Don't eat and drink whilst walking - makes for a good excuse to take a break and sit down

4. Don't expect to see many rubbish bins when out and about - always handy to carry a plastic bag in your backpack / handbag to keep your rubbish

5. Keep voices low - especially in public places and on trains

6. Tipping is not common or expected and even considered rude

7. Be punctual for bookings and expect the trains to run on time

8. Download travel apps - we used Navitime which was great for finding train routes and platforms

9. Don't point or touch people - it's considered rude. Instead say 'sumimasen' to get someone's attention

10. Use the vending machines - they are everywhere and sell cold drinks or hot food at very cheap prices

11. Visit the 7-11 stores - the food is very fresh, cheap and plenty of choices. Also use the ATMs in 7-11 stores for fee-free cash withdrawal

12. Hotels often provide complimentary essentials such as shampoos, razors and toothbrushes so often no need to bring these with you

13. The trains in Japan are run by different companies so having a day pass is good if it is for the one train line. Often, we thought we were on the right train station only to find out it was for a different line / company. Refer to tip number 8 above - this app makes train travel much easier.

    
    

When is the best time to visit?

1. Cherry blossom season (anytime from mid-March to early May) is beautiful, mild weather but very busy with tourists. You will need to pre-book accommodation and tours as early as possible.

2. June, July, August is rainy and very hot but you will often find cheaper flights and accommodation.

3. September, October, November provides less crowds and milder weather.

4. December, January and February - are great particularly for skiing but is also expensive time to visit.

Other options to add to your itinerary

1. Nara - add an extra day from Kyoto. The train from Kyoto to Nara will take about 30-40mins. At Nara, Visit Nara Park, which is famous for its free-roaming deer, considered sacred in Japanese culture. Visit Todai-ji, which is one of Japan’s most iconic temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It houses the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), one of the largest bronze statues of Buddha in the world. The temple itself is an architectural marvel.

   
   

2. Takayama - add an extra day or two from Nagoya. We loved Takayama when we visited Japan the first time. It is a charming city located in the mountainous region of Gifu Prefecture in central Japan. Known for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture, traditional culture, and beautiful surrounding nature. Visit Takayama’s well-preserved old town, where you can stroll through narrow streets lined with traditional merchant houses, shops, and teahouses. Many of these buildings still have their original wooden structures, making it feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Or visit the Hida Folk Village is an open-air museum showcasing traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, typical of the region. These thatched-roof houses, many of which were relocated from the surrounding mountains, offer a glimpse into rural life in Japan. Make sure you try Hida Beef, which is a must-try local specialty in Takayama. The beef is known for its marbled texture and rich flavour.

   
   

3. Hiroshima - add an extra day or two from Osaka to visit Hiroshima. The main attractions include a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the

   Atomic Bomb Dome (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.