Ultimate 10-Day Japan Itinerary: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka for First Time Visitors

Japan is a dream destination for many travelers, renowned for its rich culture, delectable cuisine, stunning natural landscapes, modern attractions, and vibrant pop culture. While truly experiencing all that Japan has to offer would require weeks, not everyone has the luxury of extended vacation time. That’s why I’ve crafted this perfect 10-day itinerary, highlighting the must-see attractions and experiences to give you a taste of Japan’s unique charm and beauty. To maximize your time and convenience, I recommend flying into Tokyo and departing from Osaka, or vice versa.  I will also be including a price estimation on everything where possible – price listed is in AUD.
~1 AUD = 0.65 USD = 100 YEN

Tokyo (4 nights)

Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, is a mesmerising blend of tradition and innovation, making it one of the most advanced and fascinating cities in the world. This vibrant metropolis offers something for everyone, from the serene beauty of ancient temples to the cutting-edge technology and futuristic architecture that define its skyline. Tokyo is a hub of pop culture, with districts like Akihabara catering to anime and manga enthusiasts, while Harajuku is renowned for its unique and eclectic fashion scene. The city’s culinary landscape is equally impressive, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to delicious street food stalls. Whether you’re exploring historic neighbourhoods, indulging in shopping, or savouring delicious cuisine, Tokyo promises a rich and unforgettable experience for everyone. 

Tip: Choose to fly into Haneda Airport if possible as it is closer to the city center, saving you both time and money. 

Where to Stay in Tokyo

I recommend staying in an area along the Yamanote Line, as it provides easy access to many of Tokyo’s top attractions. For travelers seeking a vibrant nightlife experience, Shibuya and Shinjuku are ideal areas. Alternatively, Ikebukuro and Ueno are great options for families looking for a quieter neighborhood with easy access to family-friendly activities and attractions. 

• Budget: commun SHIBUYA
• Mid-range: APA Hotel Shibuya Dogenzakaue
• Luxury: Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel

Tokyo Airport → Tokyo Center

From Narita airport (~1.5-2 hours)

• Local train ($14): Take the train to your destination via the local train using your pre-loaded Suica/Pasmo card.
• Train via JR Narita Express ($31): Take the train directly from the airport to Tokyo Station. If you bought the JR Pass, this is included, otherwise you can also purchase a ticket at the airport.
• Narita Airport Limousine Bus ($36): Easiest way is to book bus tickets on Klook. This is the most convenient mode of transport as you don’t need to carry your luggage at the subway stations.
• Taxi ($300+): Generally available outside the airport.

From Haneda airport (~1-1.5 hours)

• Local train via Keikyu Line ($7): Take the train to your destination via the local train using your pre-loaded Suica/Pasmo card.
• Haneda Airport Limousine Bus ($16): Easiest way is to book bus tickets on Klook. This is the most convenient mode of transport as you don’t need to carry your luggage at the subway stations.
• Taxi ($90+): Generally available outside the airport.

Day 1: Asakusa, Ginza, TeamLabs Planets/Borderless

Sensoji Temple

Start your day in Asakusa, home to the historic Sensoji Temple. Walk through the vibrant Nakamise Shopping Street leading to the temple, where you can shop for traditional souvenirs and sample snacks like taiyaki, ice cream, and kibi dango. It gets crowded quickly, so arrive before 8 am to explore the temple grounds. Don’t miss the unagi rice balls at Asakusa Unana – they’re only 600 yen and the unagi proportion is generous!

Ginza

Head over to Ginza, known for luxury shopping and excellent dining options. While Tsukiji Fish Market is famous, I found it to be a bit of a tourist trap with long queues and overpriced food (except for the 100 YEN tamagoyaki). Ginza is also home to the 12-floor Uniqlo—definitely worth checking out, along with its sister store, GU, for cheaper finds.

Just a 2 minute walk from the Uniqlo store is Ginza Akebono, a confectionery store that sells the most delicious strawberry daifuku in five different flavours, including the iconic red bean flavour. For a unique experience, visit the Art Aquarium Museum ($25), where art installations and sculptures made of goldfish tanks are lit by coloured lights. Alternatively, TeamLab Planets or Teamlab Borderless offers a futuristic digital art experience.

TeamLab Planets or TeamLabs Borderless (or both!)

Immerse yourself in the futuristic world of digital art at either Planets or Borderless. These interactive art museums are a must-visit, offering a unique experience where art meets technology in a mesmerizing display of lights, colors, and sounds.

TeamLab Planets ($42) immerses your entire body in art, with visitors walking barefoot through spaces featuring water, soft surfaces, and knee-deep water areas. The exhibits create a deeper connection with the art, making you feel like part of the installations. The experience is more linear, guiding you through a set path.

TeamLab Borderless ($42) emphasizes a “borderless” experience where art transcends physical boundaries. Unlike Planets, there’s no set path; you’re free to explore interconnected spaces as you like. The exhibits continuously change and evolve, making each visit unique. I found the lack of a clear path at Borderless a bit confusing, as we ended up going in circles several times, but the ever-changing nature of the exhibits is impressive. Book the morning slot so there’s less people photobombing your pictures!

Day 2: Shinjuku, Harajuku, Shibuya

Udon Shin & Shinjuku

I’ve tried a lot of TikTok-famous restaurants in Japan, and most didn’t quite measure up to the hype. But Udon Shin was definitely worth it; even with the 3 hour wait! Their hand-pulled udon is bouncy, chewy, and paired with a perfectly balanced broth. We got there just after 11 am, which is why we ended up waiting 3 hours – don’t make our mistake!

Pro tip: show up around 9 am to grab a ticket and then they’ll text you when it’s your turn, but I would recommend returning at 10:40 am to line up.

While you wait, take a stroll around Shinjuku. Just a 10-minute walk from Udon Shin is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, which is a free observation deck that offers panoramic city views from 45 floors up. While it may not compare to Shibuya Sky, it’s hard to complain about the price – free! No need to book; just show up.

Harajuku

After lunch, head to Harajuku, the epicenter of Tokyo’s youth culture. Wander through Takeshita Street for trendy boutiques and quirky stores, beware, it is CROWDED. While the famous Harajuku crepes are popular, I recommend skipping them—they’re overpriced, small, and just mid. Instead, visit Cookie Time for the best cookies, milkshakes, and ice cream. If you’re still craving sweets, check out im donut? for fluffy doughnuts with delicious fillings – the pistachio ones are my favourite!

Shibuya

Next, explore Shibuya. If you’re visiting during cherry blossom season, Yoyogi Park is a must-see, with beautiful pink petals falling from the trees, otherwise it’s not worth a visit in my opinion. However, don’t miss Meiji Jingu, a serene shrine that offers a peaceful escape nestled within a lush forest. The tranquil atmosphere is perfect for relaxation.

Experience the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing—it might be smaller than you expect, but it’s iconic nonetheless. Shibuya Sky ($25) is a must as this observation deck gives you the best view of the city, on a clear day you can even see Mt. Fuji from it!

Tip: If you want to get the sunset slot, be prepared to purchase tickets as soon as they open up which is 4 weeks before the date at 12 am (JST). Another hack to see Shibuya Sky during sunset is booking an earlier slot and wait until sunset as there is no time limit for staying there.

For dinner, Shibuya offers many options, from fresh tuna bowls at Maguro to Shari Shibuya to affordable conveyor belt sushi at Kura Sushi Shibuya Ekimae.

Back for Shinjuku’s nightlife

Now return to Shinjuku to explore its glory at night, where all the neon lights come to life. Check out Shinjuku Golden Gai, Kabukicho District, and Omoide Yokocho for late night eats and drinks.

If you want to go clubbing in Japan, it must be in Tokyo. I have gone clubbing in Australia and Vietnam, but nothing compares to the clubs in Japan. The DJ’s and the crowd is really something else that I have never seen before. I highly recommend WARP Shinjuku, they have three different floors with various genres like K-pop, hardstyle, and techno. The techno floor felt like a rave as they have amazing lasers during the production. Tokyo clubs offer a vibe unlike anywhere else. For only 1,000 YEN (~$10) entry fee with a drink, that is unbeatable for an mini rave.

Day 3: DisneyLand or DisneySea

Dedicate your third day to the magic of Disney! Whether you choose Tokyo DisneyLand ($83) or Tokyo DisneySea ($83), you’re in for a day filled with fun, nostalgia, and incredible attractions. Disneyland is perfect for those who love classic Disney characters and fairy tales, while DisneySea offers a unique experience with its nautical theme and thrilling rides. Both are crowded so be prepared to go and line up at 6 am to be one of the first ones to enter the attractions. For lunch, make sure to try the popular Mickey-shaped waffles or head to one of the themed restaurants like Magellan’s in DisneySea for an immersive dining experience. End the day by catching the spectacular evening parade and fireworks display

Tip: People start lining up at 4-6am to enter the park so if you want to be one of the firsts to enter the park, then I suggest setting up a very early alarm!

Day 4: Day Trip To Mt. Fuji

If you’re in Japan, a visit to Mt. Fuji is a must. Start your journey early in the morning to make the most of your day. You can take a guided tour or travel independently by bus or train to the Fuji Five Lakes area or Hakone. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the iconic mountain, visit hot springs, or take a cruise on Lake Ashi. If the weather is clear, consider hiking one of the nearby trails for even better views.

If you want to get around Mt. Fuji, you will need to hire a car to get around as public transport is not that accessible there. I would highly recommend checking out a Mt. Fuji day tour that will suit your needs as they offer different tours to different locations where you can see Mt. Fuji.

Alternative Areas & Activities in Tokyo

Tokyo offers various activities that will suit all kinds of travelers, from adventurers seeking thrills to those who enjoy sightseeing and taking pictures. Your Tokyo itinerary may be different from what I suggest, I recommend checking Klook on activities and attractions that you may be interested in Tokyo. Many amazing activities in Tokyo include the Ghibli Museum ($265), Go-karting ($61), Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo ($48), Sanrio Puroland ($34) and many more! Note: You can purchase Ghibli Museum tickets on their direct website for $90 but its very competitive and you might not get it, hence why I recommend purchasing a tour with Klook and you’ll have a higher chance of scoring a ticket!

Other areas you might be interested in checking out include Akihabara (anime haven), the Imperial Palace Area (rich in history), and Roppongi (great nightlife with many hipster restaurants and bars). You can also choose to go on a day trip from Tokyo to Hakone, Kamakura, Nikko, Enoshima, Yokohama, and many more!

Tokyo → Kyoto

• Bullet train ($132): Takes 2 hours and 15 minutes. You can book tickets on the Smart EX app and not only reserve your seat, but also get a discount if you book 21 days before your trip. Alternatively, you can also book tickets on Klook. You get to also purchase a traditional bento box at the station and enjoy it during your ride! They have self heating bento boxes too – how cool is that?!
• Plane ($100-200): A 1 hour flight, however you must factor in getting 2 hours to the airport prior to departure.
• Highway bus ($50): Takes 7-8 hours. You can choose to take the overnight bus to save on accomodation. You can book tickets on Willer Travel.

Kyoto (2 nights)

Next, you’ll be heading to Kyoto, the capital city of the Kyoto Prefecture in the Kansai region, located in west-central Honshu Island, approximately 450 km from Tokyo. Kyoto is a city that captivates visitors with its rich natural beauty and cultural heritage. Known for its numerous Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, historical buildings, and traditional architecture, Kyoto offers a serene and enchanting experience. The city’s well-preserved streets and gardens provide a glimpse into Japan’s past, making it a paradise for history enthusiasts, culture buffs, and photographers alike. Kyoto’s tranquil atmosphere, combined with its vibrant seasonal landscapes: from cherry blossoms in spring to colorful autumn foliage makes it a must-visit destination for all types of tourists, whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment, cultural exploration, or simply breathtaking scenery.

Where to Stay in Kyoto

I highly recommend staying in a traditional bath house, known as a ryokan, while in Kyoto. This offers a uniquely Japanese experience, with comfortable facilities that often include a traditional Japanese breakfast and relaxing Japanese-style baths. Staying in a ryokan provides a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage and is a memorable part of any visit to Kyoto.

• Budget: Traditional Japanese Ryokan Hirashin Kyoto
• Mid-range: Matsubaya Ryokan
• Luxury: Kyokoyado Muromachi Yutone 京小宿 室町 ゆとね

Day 5: Arashiyama Area

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Begin your Kyoto adventure in the Arashiyama district, home to the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. While it can be crowded, the serene atmosphere and towering bamboo make it worth the visit. For a quieter experience, take a short 15 minute walk to the lesser-known Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple, where you can take the same photos of the bamboo forest.

Next, head to Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with tranquil gardens and historic teahouses. Take a moment to soak in the peaceful surroundings before satisfying your sweet tooth with a treat from Mamemono to Taiyaki Arashiyama Honten, known for its delicious taiyaki. For lunch, indulge in a bowl of udon at Ozuru, a local favorite that’s nearby.

Sagano Romantic Train & Hozugawa River Boat Ride

Afterward, board the Sagano Romantic Train ($9) at Saga Station. This scenic 25-minute ride offers spectacular views of the Hozu River as it winds through the mountains at a leisurely pace. On your return, you have the option to either take the train back or experience the Hozugawa River Boat Ride ($62), a more immersive two-hour journey down the river that brings you back to Arashiyama. Once you’re back, continue exploring the Arashiyama area. Visit local shops or take a relaxing stroll along the river until it’s time for dinner.

Kimono Forest

End your day with a traditional Japanese meal at Arashiya Itsukichaya. This charming restaurant is located on an island near the bamboo grove, offering beautiful river views—especially if you manage to reserve a table by the window. After dinner, take a short 8-minute walk to the Kimono Forest, a unique art installation featuring 600 backlit pillars adorned with vibrant kimono textiles. The illuminated pillars create a magical atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for evening photos. After a long day, head back to your ryokan for a well-deserved rest.

Day 6: Climb Fushimi & Explore Gion District

Fushimi Inari Shrine

No trip to Kyoto is complete without a visit to the Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks. To avoid the crowds, consider starting your hike early at around 6:00 AM. However, if you prefer a more relaxed start, don’t worry! Even during peak hours, you can still find quiet spots as you climb higher up the mountain. Along the way, you’ll pass by stalls offering refreshments and treats like soybean ice cream; a must-try and the only 10/10 food rating I gave throughout my whole Japan trip! Don’t forget to check your fortune (Omikuji), and if you receive a bad one, tie it to the designated racks to leave the bad luck behind. After your hike, reward yourself with a bowl of Michelin Guide ramen at Men-ya Inoichi. 

Gion District

If you still have room in your stomach, you can make a quick stop at Nishiki Market, though it’s often crowded and a bit touristy, it still offers a glimpse of local Kyoto life.

Next, head over to the Gion District, Kyoto’s famous geisha neighbourhood. Wander through the atmospheric streets lined with traditional machiya (wooden townhouses) and teahouses. This is the perfect place for a kimono rental experience – immerse yourself in the local culture as you stroll around in traditional attire.

Yasaka Shrine, Sannenzaka, Ninenaka, & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit the Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most famous shrines, and then walk over to Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, two charming, historic pedestrian streets. Be sure to stop at Sannenzaka for the iconic photo with the Yasaka Pagoda in the background, a must-have for your Kyoto photo album! Continue your journey to Kiyomizu-dera, a Buddhist temple known for its large wooden terrace and stunning views over the city. If you’re interested in doing a kimono rental, Kyoto is the place to do it!

Nakagyo Ward

For dinner, treat yourself to the famous “hamburger steak” at Hikiniku to Come, these juicy patties are made with freshly minced beef and grilled over charcoal. Remember to make a reservation in advance! Afterward, satisfy your sweet tooth at Maccha House, I really recommend their hojicha tirimisu even though they’re famous for their matcha desserts!

If you’re still up for something unique, visit Macho Bar, where buffed-up bartenders serve drinks with a side of bodybuilding poses and fun performances; definitely an unforgettable experience! Regardless of gender, they will princess carry you to your table. After a long day of exploring Kyoto, return to your ryokan and rest up for your next adventure in Osaka.

Kyoto → Osaka

• Local train ($5): Takes under 1 hour and there’s a train every 15 minutes or so. You can purchase a one way ticket at the station or use your pre-loaded Suica/Pasmo card.
• Bullet train ($15): Takes 15 minutes, however, in my opinion the local train is the better option as it’s 3x cheaper.

Osaka (3 nights)

Known as “the belly of Japan” or “Japan’s kitchen,” Osaka is a vibrant and charming city famous for its diverse street food and outgoing locals. Beyond its culinary delights, Osaka offers a wealth of fun activities and attractions, making it a fantastic destination for travelers. The city boasts a rich history and culture, with landmarks like Osaka Castle and traditional districts like Shinsekai. Osaka’s lively nightlife, particularly around areas like Dotonbori and Namba, is perfect for those looking to experience the city’s energetic atmosphere. Whether you’re indulging in delicious local dishes, exploring historical sites, or enjoying the nightlife, Osaka promises a memorable and exciting experience for all types of visitors.

• Budget: Hotel Hillarys
• Mid-range: Business Inn Sennichimae Hotel
• Luxury: Candeo Hotels Osaka The Tower

Day 7: Osaka Castle & Shinsekai

Osaka Castle

I highly recommend getting the 2-day Osaka e-Pass ($45), which grants you unlimited access to Osaka’s subway, tramway, and bus services, as well as entry to around 40 iconic tourist sites for under $50 AUD. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Begin your day at Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city’s rich history. Marvel at the beautiful architecture and take in the surrounding cherry blossoms if you’re visiting during the season. The Osaka e-Pass provides free entry to the castle’s museum, but if museums aren’t your thing, you can simply enjoy the exterior and snap some photos.

Don’t miss the Osaka Castle Gozabune Boat Ride, a 20-minute cruise around the inner moat, which is also covered by the e-pass. For a picture-perfect shot of Osaka Castle, find the “Japanese garden” spot online—it’s a great location for capturing the castle’s beauty.

Shinsaibashisuji

If you’re in the mood for shopping, head over to Shinsaibashisuji, a bustling shopping street known for its vintage designer finds at unbeatable prices. You’ll also find a variety of delicious restaurants nearby; just follow the locals to discover some of the best eats in the area. Whether you’re hunting for a fashion bargain or savoring local delicacies, Shinsaibashisuji has something for everyone.

Tsutenkaku Tower & Tower Slide

Next, make your way to Tsutenkaku Tower, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Osaka from the observation deck, located 91 meters above the ground. For a thrill, try the Tsutenkaku Tower Slide, a 60-meter-long slide that takes you from the third floor of the tower, around the exterior of the tower, and down to the basement floor. It’s a fun and unique experience, complete with a video recording of your slide journey that makes for a memorable keepsake. The drop is sudden and steep, adding an extra element of excitement! Tickets for both of these are included in the Osaka e-Pass!

Shinsekai

After your tower adventure, explore the Shinsekai district, known for its vibrant nightlife, modern architecture, and mouthwatering street food. The area comes alive with colorful lights in the evening, creating a lively atmosphere, especially with the lit up Tsutenkaku Tower in the background. Be sure to try kushikatsu, skewered and deep-fried delights that are a specialty here. Any restaurant that catches your eye will likely serve up a delicious meal. If you’re in the mood for drinks, Shinsekai is also home to numerous bars where you can wind down after a day of sightseeing.

Day 8: Kita Ward & Dotonbori

Day 9: Day Trip to Nara

Nara Park, Todaiji Temple & Kofukuji Temple

A 45-minute train ride from Osaka, Nara is famous for its friendly, bowing deer and beautiful temples. Upon arrival, take a short walk from Nara Station to Nara Park, where you can meet the famous deer. You can purchase deer crackers from vendors near the entrance for 200 yen, but a tip: don’t feed the deer right at the entrance as they can be aggressive. Instead, walk deeper into the park where the deer are more relaxed. The deer will bow to you, but be cautious, they can get a bit pushy if they see food. One even bit my cousin, leaving a bruise, so stay alert!

Adjacent to Nara Park is Todaiji Temple, a Buddhist temple with free admission that houses the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha. It’s a peaceful spot for a prayer or just to admire the grandeur of the statue. Next, head to Kofukuji Temple, which features several historic buildings, including a five-story pagoda and a three-story pagoda. While entry to the temple grounds is free, there is a fee to visit The Central Golden Hall, Eastern Golden Hall, and Kofukuji’s National Treasure Museum.

Nakatanidou (Mochi Pounding)

Don’t leave Nara without witnessing the famous mochi-pounding show at Nakatanidou. The video of this incredible mochi-making process, done by hand, has gone viral for a reason! The showtimes vary each day, but they usually occur every 30-45 minutes. The mochi is freshly made, super soft, and filled with sweet red bean paste, even if you’re not a fan of red bean, this treat is a must-try.

Tip: I recommend lining up at least 30 minutes early if you want a good view for your video. I was happy to witness it from afar and was very impress by the man’s energy as he slapped the mochi!

Afternoon: Return to Osaka or go to Kobe

You’ll likely have half a day left after exploring Nara, so why not return to Dotonbori to discover more of what this vibrant district has to offer? I practically lived there during my time in Osaka, so no judgment! For more food recommendations, try Yakiniku Rikimaru Dotonbori for all-you-can-eat Japanese BBQ, Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu for tender wagyu or Tendon Makino for tempura rice bowls.

Otherwise, you can head to Kobe, which is an hour train ride from Nara to enjoy Kobe beef for dinner!

Alternative Day: Universal Studios Japan (USJ)

For thrill-seekers, Universal Studios Japan ($85) is a must-visit, though it will take up an entire day. I personally would sacrifice a day in Nara in exchange for a day at USJ. I highly recommend getting the Express Pass to make the most out of your time here and who wants to wait over an hour for each ride?

Day 10: Fly Back Home, Bye Japan!

I am sure you will be able to find a flight from Osaka Airport (KIX or ITM) to your next destination. As your Japan adventure comes to an end, indulge in one last meal from a 7-Eleven convenience store, trust me, convenience stores outside of Japan will never compare, so savor it while you can! If you haven’t already, now is also the time to get any last minute gifts and souvenirs. Just remember to arrive at the airport at least three hours before your flight. I hope you had an incredible time in Japan!