7 Days in Japan is a popular travel itinerary that allows visitors to explore Japan’s most iconic cities and attractions within a week.
While the country offers countless sights, this itinerary is designed to cover the essentials, offering a balanced mix of urban exploration, cultural experiences, and natural beauty.
On Day 1-2, travelers typically start in Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital. Here, you can explore neighborhoods like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa, famous for shopping, dining, and historical sites such as Senso-ji Temple.
The city’s cutting-edge technology, vibrant nightlife, and unique districts like Akihabara make Tokyo an exciting destination.
Day 3-4 could be spent in Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, known for its well-preserved temples, shrines, and gardens. Must-see spots include Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkaku-ji, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
On Day 5, head to Osaka, a city famous for its street food, shopping, and entertainment districts like Dotonbori. Osaka Castle is also a highlight.
For Day 6, visit Hiroshima to see the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, which commemorate the tragic atomic bombing.
On Day 7, take a trip to Mount Fuji for a day of sightseeing or hiking, enjoying Japan’s most iconic natural landmark.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Tokyo
Upon arriving in Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, you’ll be greeted by its modern skyline, neon lights, and fast-paced energy.
Start your adventure by getting settled into your accommodation and adjusting to the local time zone. Here’s how you can spend your first day exploring the city:
Morning: Arrival and Getting Settled
- Narita or Haneda Airport: After your arrival at either Narita International Airport or Haneda Airport, take the Narita Express (N’EX) or the Tokyo Monorail to your hotel or central Tokyo. The ride is straightforward and offers scenic views of the city.
- Check-in: If your hotel room isn’t ready yet, leave your luggage at the hotel’s luggage storage, and head out to start your day.
Afternoon: Shibuya and Harajuku
- Shibuya Crossing: Head to Shibuya, home to one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. It’s a great spot to begin your Tokyo adventure. Take a photo at the famous Hachiko Statue and explore the surrounding shopping streets and malls.
- Harajuku: A short subway ride will take you to Harajuku, where you can explore Takeshita Street, known for its quirky fashion, trendy boutiques, and delicious street food. Don’t forget to try the famous crepes and rainbow cotton candy!
Evening: Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree
- Asakusa: Visit Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most significant temple. Walk through Nakamise Street, lined with traditional shops offering snacks and souvenirs. It’s an excellent spot to absorb Tokyo’s rich history.
- Tokyo Skytree: End your day with a visit to the Tokyo Skytree, one of the tallest structures in the world. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city at sunset or night, and explore the shopping and dining options in the complex.
Night: Dinner and Exploring Odaiba
After the Skytree, head to the futuristic Odaiba district. Here, you can enjoy waterfront dining with views of the Rainbow Bridge and the Tokyo skyline. Odaiba is also home to several shopping malls and entertainment complexes, perfect for winding down your first day in Tokyo.
Day 2: Full Day in Tokyo – Culture & Cuisine
After a restful night, you’ll be ready to dive deeper into the heart of Tokyo, exploring its culture, history, and exceptional food.
Here’s how to spend your second day in this dynamic city:
Morning: Traditional Culture and Temples
- Meiji Shrine: Begin your day with a peaceful visit to the Meiji Shrine, located in the lush Yoyogi Park. This Shinto shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, is a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Stroll through the forested grounds and take part in traditional practices like making wishes at the sacred offering box.
- Takeshita Street: If you didn’t have the chance the previous day, head to Harajuku to explore Takeshita Street, famous for its colorful fashion, trendy shops, and quirky cafes. Be sure to try the crepes or Harajuku-style desserts while you’re here.
Afternoon: Museums and Art
- Ueno Park: Visit Ueno Park, home to several of Tokyo’s most renowned museums, such as the Tokyo National Museum and the Ueno Zoo. Stroll around the park’s ponds and enjoy the tranquility.
- Asakusa’s Edo-Tokyo Museum: Alternatively, head back to Asakusa to visit the Edo-Tokyo Museum, where you can learn about Tokyo’s transformation from a small fishing village to one of the world’s leading megacities.
Lunch: Savoring Tokyo’s Best Cuisine
- Sushi: Tokyo is the best place in the world for sushi. Enjoy a sushi lunch at a sushi train restaurant or opt for a more upscale experience at places like Sukiyabashi Jiro (if you want a Michelin-starred experience).
- Ramen: Alternatively, try a steaming bowl of ramen at one of the city’s famous ramen shops, such as Ichiryu in Shibuya or Ippudo in Roppongi.
Evening: Shinjuku – Bright Lights and Nightlife
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: If you have time before heading out for the evening, take a relaxing stroll in Shinjuku Gyoen, a spacious park perfect for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing.
- Omoide Yokocho: For dinner, head to Omoide Yokocho, an alleyway in Shinjuku filled with small, traditional eateries serving yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), tempura, and other local delights. It’s a great spot to experience Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife and food culture.
- Robot Restaurant: For an unforgettable evening experience, consider visiting the Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku, where you’ll enjoy a futuristic robot show while having dinner.
Night: Tokyo’s Skyline
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: For incredible nighttime views, visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku. The observation decks offer panoramic views of Tokyo’s sprawling cityscape, and the best part is that it’s free!
Day 3: Day Trip to Nikko or Mount Fuji
On your third day in Japan, venture out of Tokyo to explore some of the country’s stunning natural landscapes and historic landmarks.
You have two excellent options for a day trip: Nikko or Mount Fuji. Both offer unique experiences and a chance to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
Option 1: Day Trip to Nikko – History and Nature Combined
Nikko, located about 2 hours north of Tokyo by train, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural surroundings. It’s a perfect destination if you want to experience Japan’s history and scenic beauty.
- Morning: Toshogu Shrine: Upon arrival, head to Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. The shrine is famous for its intricate carvings, vibrant colors, and the iconic three wise monkeys. Don’t miss the Sacred Bridge (Shinkyo), which is a symbol of Nikko.
- Afternoon: Nikko National Park: After exploring the shrine, head to Nikko National Park for a nature-filled experience. You can visit Kegon Falls, a spectacular waterfall, or take a walk around Lake Chuzenji for peaceful views and the chance to see seasonal flowers or vibrant autumn leaves.
- Evening: Return to Tokyo: After a day of culture and nature, take the train back to Tokyo, where you can enjoy dinner in one of the city’s famous izakayas (Japanese pubs).
Option 2: Day Trip to Mount Fuji – Iconic Views and Outdoor Adventure
If you’re more into outdoor adventure, a day trip to Mount Fuji is an unforgettable experience. Located about 2.5 hours from Tokyo by train or bus, Mount Fuji is Japan’s most famous peak and offers various outdoor activities, particularly in the surrounding Fuji Five Lakes area.
- Morning: Fuji Five Lakes: Start your day by taking a bus to the Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko) region, which offers spectacular views of Mount Fuji, especially from Lake Kawaguchi. This area is perfect for a peaceful lakeside walk or a boat ride, where you can capture postcard-worthy views of the mountain.
- Afternoon: Hiking or Hot Springs: For those who love hiking, consider taking a trail around Mount Fuji’s fifth station (accessible by bus). Alternatively, if you prefer relaxation, enjoy the onsen (hot springs) in the area, such as Fujiyama Onsen, where you can soak and enjoy the mountain view.
- Evening: Return to Tokyo: After a day of outdoor activities and nature, return to Tokyo in the evening. Take a moment to unwind at a cozy restaurant or izakaya in the city.
Tip for Both Trips:
- Start early, as both destinations can take a few hours to reach, and you’ll want to make the most of your day.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket, as the weather can be cooler in these mountainous areas, especially in the morning and evening.
Day 4: Travel to Kyoto – Temples and Tradition
On your fourth day in Japan, head to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, known for its stunning temples, serene gardens, traditional tea houses, and beautiful wooden houses.
Kyoto offers an authentic look into Japan’s cultural and historical heritage, and you’ll experience the peaceful ambiance of this magnificent city.
Morning: Travel to Kyoto
Start the day early by taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Kyoto. The ride takes around 2.5 hours, and it’s a comfortable and scenic journey. Once you arrive in Kyoto, you’ll be greeted by a city steeped in history and tradition.
Late Morning: Visit Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion)
Begin your exploration with a visit to one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion.
This Zen Buddhist temple is covered in gold leaf, and its stunning reflection in the surrounding pond creates a magical sight. Take time to explore the beautiful surrounding gardens as well.
Afternoon: Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine
Next, make your way to Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most famous spiritual sites. Famous for its thousands of red torii gates, this shrine is dedicated to the god of rice and agriculture, Inari. You can walk through the iconic gates and hike up the mountain for panoramic views of Kyoto.
Late Afternoon: Visit Kiyomizu-dera and Higashiyama District
After visiting Fushimi Inari, head to Kiyomizu-dera, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s most important temples.
The temple offers breathtaking views of the city and is especially stunning during cherry blossom season.
Afterward, wander through the traditional streets of the Higashiyama District, which is full of old-style wooden buildings, shops selling traditional crafts, and tea houses.
Evening: Stroll through Gion District
In the evening, take a walk through the historic Gion District, famous for its traditional teahouses and geisha culture.
Here, you may spot a geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha) on their way to an appointment. The area is beautifully lit in the evening, with lanterns lining the streets, giving it a magical, nostalgic atmosphere.
You can also stop for dinner in one of Gion’s cozy restaurants to enjoy traditional Kyoto cuisine, such as kaiseki (multi-course meal) or yudofu (tofu hot pot).
Night: Relax in Kyoto
Kyoto is known for its tranquil beauty, so after a full day of temple hopping and exploring, unwind by enjoying a quiet moment in one of the city’s many serene gardens or by taking a peaceful boat ride along the Kamo River.
Day 5: Kyoto Highlights and Gion District
On Day 5, dive deeper into Kyoto’s rich culture, with a focus on its stunning temples, serene gardens, and the iconic Gion District. This is the day to immerse yourself fully in the traditions and historical beauty of the ancient city.
Morning: Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Start your day early by heading to Arashiyama, a scenic area on the outskirts of Kyoto, known for its bamboo forest. Walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks create a mesmerizing and tranquil atmosphere.
The path through the bamboo forest is peaceful and gives you a unique chance to take in the natural beauty of Kyoto. Afterward, visit Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage temple nearby, and enjoy its serene gardens.
Late Morning: Explore the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)
If you didn’t have a chance to visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) on Day 4, take the time this morning. Located in the northern part of Kyoto, the dazzling temple’s golden exterior beautifully reflects off the surrounding pond, creating one of the most iconic and photographed views in Japan.
Afternoon: Visit Nijo Castle
In the afternoon, head to Nijo Castle, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its ornate interiors and the beautiful Ninomaru Palace, the castle was once the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns.
Don’t miss the nightingale floors, which chirp when walked upon—designed to warn of intruders. The castle also has a lovely garden and is a fantastic spot to learn about Japan’s feudal history.
Late Afternoon: Gion District Exploration
In the late afternoon, take a stroll through the historic Gion District, Kyoto’s famous geisha neighborhood. This area, with its narrow lanes, traditional wooden machiya houses, and tea houses, is the perfect place to soak in the atmosphere of old Kyoto.
Wander along the charming streets like Hanami-koji Street, where you may spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas) on their way to appointments.
Evening: Traditional Tea Ceremony or Geisha Experience
As the evening sets in, consider experiencing a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. There are several teahouses in Gion where you can participate in this serene and meaningful ritual, learning about the importance of tea in Japanese culture.
Alternatively, you can enjoy a Geisha performance in one of Gion’s traditional tea houses, where you’ll be treated to an intimate performance of traditional Japanese arts, such as Kyo-mai (Kyoto-style dance) and Shamisen music.
Night: Enjoy Kyoto Cuisine in Gion
For dinner, indulge in Kyoto-style kaiseki (a multi-course Japanese meal), served in many Gion restaurants. You can enjoy delicate dishes using seasonal ingredients, emphasizing freshness and aesthetic presentation. If you’re craving something simpler, opt for yudofu (tofu hot pot), another Kyoto specialty.
Day 6: Day Trip to Nara or Osaka
On Day 6, take a break from the serene beauty of Kyoto and explore two of Japan’s other incredible cities: Nara and Osaka. Both are within a short distance from Kyoto and offer unique experiences.
Option 1: Day Trip to Nara – The City of Deer
Start your day early with a trip to Nara, a city known for its friendly deer, stunning temples, and historical landmarks. It takes about 45 minutes by train from Kyoto.
Morning: Visit Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park
Once you arrive in Nara, head straight to Todai-ji, the iconic Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden). Here, you’ll find the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue, a stunning sight that will leave you in awe. After visiting the temple, wander through Nara Park, where you can interact with the famous wild deer that roam freely.
Late Morning: Explore Kasuga Taisha Shrine
From Nara Park, take a short walk to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This Shinto shrine is known for its thousands of stone lanterns that line the paths leading to the main hall. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy the natural surroundings and admire the traditional architecture.
Afternoon: Visit the Nara National Museum or Kofuku-ji Temple
After lunch, visit the Nara National Museum for an introduction to the city’s history, or explore Kofuku-ji, another UNESCO-listed temple with a five-story pagoda, one of Japan’s tallest wooden structures.
Option 2: Day Trip to Osaka – Japan’s Vibrant Metropolis
Alternatively, take a day trip to Osaka, Japan’s second-largest city, known for its lively atmosphere, food scene, and modern attractions. It’s just a 30-minute train ride from Kyoto.
Morning: Visit Osaka Castle
Begin your Osaka adventure by visiting Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. The grand castle, surrounded by a beautiful park, offers a fascinating museum inside that showcases Osaka’s rich history. The panoramic views from the top are not to be missed.
Late Morning: Dotonbori District and Shopping
Next, head to Dotonbori, Osaka’s most famous entertainment district. The bustling area is famous for its neon signs, including the iconic Glico Running Man sign, and a variety of restaurants and shops. It’s also the perfect place to sample Osaka’s street food, such as takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancakes).
Afternoon: Umeda Sky Building or Osaka Aquarium
If you’re interested in views, visit the Umeda Sky Building’s floating garden observatory, which provides a stunning 360-degree view of the city. Alternatively, head to the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the largest aquariums in the world, home to a variety of marine life from the Pacific Ocean.
Evening: Enjoy Osaka’s Food Scene
Osaka is known as Japan’s “kitchen,” so make sure to indulge in a dinner of kushi katsu (deep-fried skewers), sushi, or ramen. Head to Shin-Osaka or Namba for a variety of local dining options. If you’re in the mood for something more adventurous, try fugu (pufferfish), a delicacy that’s served only by licensed chefs due to its potential toxicity.
Return to Kyoto
After a full day of exploring Nara or Osaka, head back to Kyoto in the evening, ready to relax after your exciting day trip.
Day 7: Final Shopping and Departure
On your final day in Japan, it’s time to make the most of your last hours, whether you want to pick up any souvenirs, explore a little more, or relax before your flight.
Morning: Final Shopping in Tokyo or Kyoto
Depending on where your flight departs from, you’ll have the opportunity for some last-minute shopping in either Tokyo or Kyoto.
In Tokyo:
Head to the famous shopping districts like Shibuya, Harajuku, or Ginza. In Shibuya, explore trendy boutiques and fashion-forward stores.
Harajuku is perfect for quirky fashion finds, and Ginza offers high-end designer brands and specialty goods. If you’re looking for unique Japanese gifts or souvenirs, Akihabara is your go-to for electronics, anime, and gadgets.
For more traditional items, make your way to Asakusa and shop around Nakamise Street, where you can find crafts, traditional tea sets, kimonos, and much more.
In Kyoto:
For a more serene shopping experience, visit Nishiki Market in Kyoto. Known as the “Kitchen of Kyoto,” this market is perfect for buying culinary items such as traditional spices, sweets, and snacks.
For more souvenir options, you can visit Gion for handcrafted goods or Kyoto Station Mall for larger shopping areas.
Afternoon: Visit a Relaxing Spot
Before you depart, take a moment to visit a serene spot and enjoy some peaceful reflection. If you’re in Tokyo, consider visiting Meiji Shrine in Shibuya for a calming retreat amidst nature.
If you’re still in Kyoto, spend a bit more time at the beautiful Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) or Arashiyama Bamboo Grove to end your trip with breathtaking views.
Late Afternoon: Head to the Airport
Depending on your flight’s departure time, make your way to Narita Airport (Tokyo) or Kansai Airport (Osaka) from Kyoto. The Shinkansen will get you there quickly and comfortably.
Reflection on Your Trip
As you head to the airport, take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had over the past week, from exploring the modern city of Tokyo to the traditional beauty of Kyoto and Nara.
Whether it was sampling Japanese cuisine, visiting ancient temples, or discovering vibrant shopping districts, your seven days in Japan have undoubtedly created memories that will last a lifetime.
Conclusion
A 7-day trip to Japan offers an unforgettable journey through a blend of ancient traditions, modern innovation, and natural beauty.
From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the peaceful temples of Kyoto and the historic treasures of Nara, each destination provides a unique experience that captures the essence of Japan.
Whether you’re exploring Tokyo’s vibrant districts, hiking near Mount Fuji, or immersing yourself in Kyoto’s cultural heritage, every moment is an opportunity to discover something new.
This itinerary is designed to give you a well-rounded view of Japan, allowing you to experience the country’s most iconic sites while also offering time to relax and enjoy its serene beauty.
By the end of the week, you’ll have created memories that will inspire your future travels and a deeper appreciation for this fascinating country.
