Japan Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Planning a trip to Japan for the first time can feel overwhelming.
So many cities, traditions, foods, sights and neighborhoods all packed into one destination. The contrasts alone are quite something: modern skylines & centuries-old temples, chaotic street crossings & calming gardens, and world-class cuisine or simple comfort food.
For many travelers, Japan sits at the very top of the bucket list.
The challenge is: how do you create a Japan travel itinerary that captures the essence of this country without rushing from place to place or falling into tourist traps in Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka?
The trick isn’t trying to see everything at once. It’s choosing the right mix of experiences that gives you an unforgettable sense of place, without burning you out.
This guide is designed as a balanced first-time Japan itinerary. It mixes Tokyo’s modern energy, Kyoto’s cultural depth, the calming beauty of Japan’s mountains, and Osaka’s fun-loving food scene. You’ll get a taste of Japan’s depth and breadth, plus a whiff of some potentially hidden gems of Japan travel, while still keeping the trip practical and manageable. Along the way, we’ll highlight why each stop matters, what to do and how to make the most of your time.
TL;DR – How to Simplify Your Japan Itinerary
Planning your first trip to Japan should balance cities, culture and nature. Start in Tokyo for 3–4 days, soak in an onsen near Fuji or Hakone for 1–2 nights, spend 3 days in Kyoto, add Nara or Hiroshima as a side trip, then finish with 1–2 days in Osaka. Keep routing tight, book one ryokan night, use IC cards for transit and focus on a few neighborhoods each day. This 10 day Japan trip for first-timers hits the highlights without burnout and leaves room for your interests.
Why Plan an Itinerary for Japan at All?
Japan isn’t the type of place where you can just “wing it.”
While some travel destinations do just fine for spontaneous wandering, a memorable Japan trip involves thoughtful planning. Trains run on a reliable timetable, popular attractions require timed entry tickets and accommodation for peak seasons (which is more and more seasons these days in this crazy Japan travel boom!) can book out months in advance.
For first-time visitors, having a framework prevents stress and maximizes your time. The goal is not to schedule every minute of every day, but instead to strike a balance: have a pace that grants freedom to explore Japan, anchored by an efficient route that minimizes backtracking.
This is why many seasoned travelers, travel professionals and even contrarian Japan travelers recommend following a loop that begins in Tokyo and winds its way through central Japan before ending in Osaka or Kyoto. It’s efficient, it’s scenic and it covers a wide variety of experiences.
1. Why Start in Tokyo? (3–4 Days)
Tokyo is a megacity, a collection of neighborhoods that each feel like their own world. For first-time travelers, starting in Tokyo makes sense for several reasons:
Most international flights land here
English signage is abundant
The city gives you a gentle introduction to navigating Japanese trains, etiquette, and food
What Are Some Highlights & Alternatives in Tokyo
Meiji Shrine: A peaceful Shinto shrine tucked inside a forested park near Harajuku. A great place to decompress after your flight
Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple: Tokyo’s most famous temple, where traditional shops line Nakamise-dori leading to the entrance gate
Tsukiji Outer Market: The iconic local fish market is gone; commercial fish operations (including the fish auctions) moved to Toyosu, leaving Tsukiji’s outer stalls to be a veritable tourist trap; instead, check out local “shotengai” (shopping streets) that are found all over Tokyo (e.g. Yanaka Ginza, Azabu Juban, Kichijoji Sun Road or Togoshi Ginza) and Japan in general
Odaiba: A futuristic entertainment hub with waterfront views, shopping complexes, and museums… that has kinda fizzled or at least fallen short of expectations (though teamLab Planets is nearby)
Shibuya Crossing: The world’s busiest pedestrian intersection, surrounded by giant screens and neon; best experienced briefly, and maybe seen from an overhead viewpoint… he sooner you get out of Shibuya and into actual neighborhoods that Tokyo locals frequent, the better your Japan journey will be!
How Should You Approach Tokyo?
Pick two neighborhoods per day to avoid burning out. Tokyo is spread out and public transport is efficient but can eat up time
Mix classic sights (temples, gardens, museums) with modern flavor (arcades, quirky cafes, skyscraper observatories)
Food is part of the sightseeing: ramen shops, sushi counters, izakayas, and department store basements (depachika) are experiences in themselves
Pro tip: Begin your trip here to ease into Japan. Tokyo’s public transport is tourist-friendly, and multilingual signage helps as you recover from jet lag.
2. What’s the Appeal of Hakone or Fuji Five Lakes? (2 Days)
Once you’ve had your fill of urban Tokyo, it’s time to head for the hills. Hakone and the Fuji Five Lakes region both offer a refreshing change of pace.
Why Visit Hakone or Fuji Five Lakes?
Mt. Fuji views: On clear days, seeing Fuji rise in the distance is unforgettable
Onsen (hot springs): Staying in a traditional ryokan with an outdoor bath is one of the quintessential Japanese experiences
Art and culture: Hakone in particular is known for its open-air museum and quirky ropeway rides over sulfur vents
How About a Sample Plan?
Spend one night in a ryokan with onsen access. Enjoy a kaiseki dinner (multi-course meal) and wear a yukata robe
Explore Lake Ashi by pirate ship cruise, or take the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic views
In the Fuji Five Lakes area, base yourself in Kawaguchiko for lakeside walks, small museums, and the iconic Chureito Pagoda photo spot
3. Why Base in Kyoto (3+ Days in Japan’s Heritage Capital)
Kyoto is where most people say they truly feel they’ve “arrived in Japan.” The city, once the imperial capital, is filled with thousands of temples, gardens, and traditional wooden townhouses.
Why Does Kyoto Belong in a First-Timer’s Itinerary?
Cultural depth: Nowhere else concentrates so much Japanese history in such an accessible area
Atmosphere: Narrow lanes, tea houses and geisha districts give Kyoto a sense of timelessness
Accessibility: Kyoto is a bullet train ride away from Tokyo, and a convenient base for side trips
What are some of Kyoto’s highlights?
Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its endless rows of red torii gates winding up the hillside
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): A temple covered in gold leaf, shimmering beside its pond
Gion district: Known for its geisha culture, traditional tea houses, and atmospheric streets
Philosopher’s Path: A tranquil walk along a cherry-tree-lined canal, especially beautiful in spring
Pro tip: Hire a local guide, even just for half a day. The depth of Kyoto isn’t always obvious from signage or guidebooks, and a guide can unlock context you’d otherwise miss.
4. What Are Some Good Side Trips? (Nara or Hiroshima/Miyajima)
Nara
Just a short train ride from Kyoto, Nara offers:
The giant Buddha at Todai-ji Temple
Friendly, free-roaming deer in Nara Park
A slower pace compared to Kyoto’s bustle
Great as a half-day add-on.
Hiroshima & Miyajima
For those willing to travel farther, Hiroshima provides historical depth. The Peace Memorial Park and Museum are sobering but essential for understanding Japan’s modern history.
Miyajima, just offshore, is home to the iconic “floating” torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine. Staying overnight here gives you a quieter, magical experience once day-trippers leave.
5. Should You visit Osaka for Food, Nightlife & Charm?
Osaka has a pretty different feel from Tokyo and Kyoto. Many say it’s friendlier, grittier and more playful. But others prefer Kyoto for history & tradition, or Tokyo for the megacity vibe. FInd out for yourself, maybe?
Why Visit Osaka?
It’s a cliche (thanks chatty LLMs) to say something like “Japan’s Kitchen”, since food all across Japan is great, but Osaka is the birthplace of many Japanese comfort foods
The city is compact and easy to explore in a short stay
It’s a natural endpoint to your journey, as Kansai International Airport offers direct flights to North America, Europe, Australia and the Middle East
What Are Some Highlights & Alternatives in Osaka?
Dotonbori: Neon lights reflected in the canal, lined with restaurants and street stalls; but this is the Times Square of Osaka, not very local anymore, so be sure to check out Umeda, Nakazakicho and Tenjinbashi among other local areas of Osaka.
Osaka Castle: A concrete replica - nice for the skyline and in autumn colors, but a day trip to Himeji Castle instead will be far more rewarding.
Food to try: Takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).
Why it’s the perfect finale: Osaka combines fun and relaxation. After cultural deep-dives in Kyoto and reflective moments in Hiroshima, you end your trip with laughter, bright lights, and incredible food.
Sample Itinerary at a Glance
| Day | Destination | Highlights | Overnight Stay |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1–3 | Tokyo | Shrines, neighborhoods, food, museums | Tokyo |
| 4–5 | Hakone or Fuji region | Onsen, mountain views | Ryokan near Mt Fuji |
| 6–8 | Kyoto | Temples, cultural tours | Kyoto |
| 9 | Nara or Hiroshima | History, heritage | Kyoto or Hiroshima |
| 10–11 | Osaka | Street food, markets, nightlife | Osaka |
Why Does This Japan Itinerary Work Well for First-Time Travelers?
Balanced pacing: Big cities, nature, traditional culture, food, and nightlife all in one loop
Efficient routing: Each place connects smoothly by train with minimal backtracking
Adaptable: Add/remove side trips as needed (e.g., skip Nara, extend Kyoto or Osaka stay)
Cultural immersion without overwhelm: Enough variety to keep things exciting, but not so rushed that you’re exhausted by the end
What Are Some Practical Tips for Your Japan Itinerary?
Transportation
Consider a JR Pass if you’re traveling between Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka. It can save money and simplifies booking
For city transport, get an IC card (Suica or Pasmo in Tokyo, ICOCA in Kansai). These work on subways, buses, and even in convenience stores
Accommodation
Mix hotel stays with at least one ryokan stay for variety
In Tokyo, consider staying near Shinjuku or Tokyo Station for easy transport
In Kyoto, choose a hotel or guesthouse near Gion or Kawaramachi for atmosphere
Food
Don’t plan every meal. Japan rewards spontaneity when it comes to food—some of the best meals come from small, family-run shops you stumble upon
Learn a few phrases like “osusume wa nan desu ka?” (what do you recommend?) to unlock insider dishes
What Are the Next Steps in Planning Your Japan Trip?
Customize your Japan trip: Contact our team to help tailor this itinerary around your passions—food, hiking, art, whatever moves you
This itinerary has been road-tested by a plethora of travelers and refined with experience. It doesn’t try to show you everything (that’s impossible of course), but it gives you a thoughtful balance.
If this is your first trip to Japan, an itinerary like this will help you navigate and give you confidence to explore Japan further next time (when you may very well want to add some underrated Japan travel destinations or to slow it down and enjoy more of the authentic Japan).
Want to find out more about how to plan (and take!) the most memorable trip to Japan? Schedule a free consultation with Japan Travel Pros, using the calendar below.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Japan Travel Planning
How many days do I need for a first trip to Japan?
Ten to twelve days works well. You can trim side trips for a faster loop or add days in Kyoto or Tokyo if you have two weeks.
Should I buy a JR Pass for this itinerary?
Almost never. If you’re a client working with Japan Travel Pros, we’ll let you know if a national or regional rail pass makes sense (they usually don’t). But see, we don’t sell rail passes, so we’re not trying to get you to spend money on something you don’t need.
Where should I stay in Tokyo?
Shinjuku or Tokyo Station for easy trains. If you want nightlife and dining, Shibuya or Ebisu can work well. Pick based on transport first.
Do I need cash?
Cards are accepted more widely now, but carry some yen for local restaurants, some shops and rural areas.
Is tipping expected in Japan?
No. Good service is standard. A simple thank you is enough.
What about luggage on trains?
Use luggage delivery between hotels or travel light. Reserve oversized luggage seats on the shinkansen if you carry big bags.
Can I use Suica or ICOCA everywhere?
Yes for almost all trains and subways, plus most convenience stores. In Kansai an ICOCA card works the same.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring and autumn for mild weather and seasonal beauty. Winter is quieter and cheaper. Summer is hot and humid, so plan for early starts.
Can I go to an onsen if I have tattoos?
Some onsen hot spring baths still restrict tattoos. Look for tattoo-friendly onsens or book a private bath at a ryokan.
Will I need reservations for popular sites?
Often yes. Book ahead for museums, teamLabs, and high-demand restaurants.
How much walking should I expect?
A lot. Trains are efficient but stations are big. Plan footwear and pace your days.
Is this itinerary kid-friendly?
Yes. Add animal experiences, teamLabs, aquariums and transport museums. Keep days shorter and build in park time.
Can I swap Hakone for Fuji Five Lakes?
Absolutely. Kawaguchiko is great for Fuji views and a slower pace. Hakone has more transport variety and museums.
Do I need a guide in Kyoto?
Not required, but a half day or even full day tour with a guide adds context and saves time.
How far in advance should I book hotels?
For peak seasons, 3–6 months. Ryokans with private onsen go fast.
Do you have more content that would help a first-time visitor to Japan?
We sure do! Check out our Japan travel content hub.
What if I want a shorter trip to Japan, say a week or less?
You’ll want to read our article that shows a great 5-6-or-7-day itinerary in Japan.
What if I hate crowds?
We’ve got you covered, in our article on Travelling Japan Without Big Crowds.
