The perfect 10-day Japan itinerary

If you’re considering taking a vacation in Japan, read on to be inspired — and informed — by a varied Japan itinerary that’ll have you exploring the country in exhilarating style. Arguably the best way to spend 10 days in Japan, it takes you from Toyoko to Kyoto, via Hakone and Takayama, delivering a whole lot of unforgettable cultural, culinary and nature experiences along the way.

How to plan your Japan itinerary for 10 days

Wondering whether 10 days in Japan is enough? You’ll be delighted by the range of destinations that can be visited in that time, as revealed right below when we present what might just be the best 10 days Japan itinerary.

But first a few tips to support your trip-planning process. 

Important things to know before your trip to Japan

Not sure how to how to plan a trip to Japan? Among the essential things to know before traveling to Japan, getting yourself a Japan Rail Pass sits at the top of the tree.

While we cover the pass in detail below, suffice to say for the time being that it will save you stacks of cash, and make getting around super-fast, super-convenient, and often super-scenic, too. 

Second in our pre-trip Japan travel guide tips, bear in mind that many international SIM cards don’t work in Japan. So, consider renting a Pocket WiFi device for your 10 days in Japan. 

These nifty gadgets can connect multiple devices to deliver reliable internet access wherever you travel. To save time, reserve online ahead of traveling and collect it from the airport.

Lastly, it’s also worth noting that many parts of Japan are still largely cash-based, especially when you head off the tourist track.

As a result, you’ll want exchange money before you go and keep an eye on how much cash you have to hand in case you don’t come across an ATM.

Not sure how long to spend in Japan? Take inspiration from our 14 days Japan itinerary, and 7 days Japan itinerary.

When is the best time to visit Japan?

On balance — unless you’re coming for winter sports — spring or autumn is the best time to visit Japan. 

And the reasons? First up, you’ll miss the thrust of the monsoon season, which usually starts in the Okinawa archipelago in May. It then moves north and tends to reach Kyoto and Tokyo in early June. 

If you’ve always longed to see the magic of Japan’s sakura season, visit in April or May — these are the peak months to witness the wonder of cherry blossom bursting into life around the country.

That said, the season starts a little earlier in Fukuoka and Hiroshima i.e. you could visit these areas from late March to see the spectacle.

When it comes to reasons to visit Japan in fall, this season sees swathes of burnished gold and copper shades sweep across the country, with September and October also still warm and dry.  

As a result, fall is a top time to visit Japan for urban exploration and outdoor adventuring alike.

How to get to Japan

Wondering how to get to Japan? If you’re traveling from the US, several airlines operate nonstop flights to Tokyo, Ōsaka and Nagoya. 

For example, you could take your pick from American Airlines, Continental, Japan Airlines or United.

As for the average flight times, expect a trip of around 15 hours from New York, 13 from Chicago, and 10 from LA.

Traveling from the UK? ANA, British Airways, Japan Airlines and Virgin all fly nonstop from London to Tokyo, with a typical flight time of 12 hours.

How to get around during your Japan trip

If you’re thinking of traveling independently, you’ll be happy to hear that getting around Japan is easy.

Here’s an overview of Japan’s very efficient transport system.

Shinkansen 

The Shinkansen bullet train is the most efficient way to travel between major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. 

With speeds up to 320 km/h (200 mph), it’s super-fast, and very comfortable, which means you can sit back to soak up sublime views between destinations on your Japan itinerary.

Local trains and subways

Heading to a big city? Extensive subway systems in cities like Tokyo and Osaka are an efficient, affordable way to get around.

At the same time, for areas and towns not served by major bullet train routes, an extensive, reliable local rail network covers all major cities, and many rural areas, too.

Domestic flights

Several low-cost airlines offer fast, affordable flight routes between many hubs. Good news if you’re hoping to cover bigger distances during your 10 days in Japan, and want to pack in as much as possible.

Do you need a Japan Rail Pass for 10 days in Japan?

As revealed in our guide to the choosing the right Japan rail pass, while there isn’t a specific 10 day pass (you choose from 7, 14 or 21 days), if you’re planning to take a couple of train journeys, the pass is still highly recommended. 

Do the math to figure out what your journeys will cost with and without one — you’ll be surprised.

How to travel with the Japan Rail Pass

It’s best to buy your JR Pass online ahead of your trip. For a start, you’ll pay less and have peace of mind. Buying in advance is also more convenient than getting it sorted after you arrive.

Once you’ve submitted your details online and paid, you’ll be sent an Exchange Order (JR voucher) by post. If you do this in good time, you could have it mailed to your home address, or you could arrange for it to be sent to your accommodation in Japan. 

Then, after arriving, take your JR Exchange Order to any JR Exchange office (they’re located in airport terminals, train stations and metro stations) to exchange it for the real deal.

Be sure to bring your passport and the physical Exchange Order — only the original document is accepted. 

Do you need a visa for Japan?

If you’re a US or UK citizen, you don’t need a visa to visit Japan for short-term stays of up to 90 days for the purpose of tourism, business, or family visits. 

All that’s required is a valid passport and proof of onward travel (i.e. your return ticket). After arriving, you’ll be issued with a temporary visitor status stamp in your passport.

Our 10 day Japan itinerary overview 

Before presenting day-by-day detail of a 10 day Japan itinerary that includes a spread many of the best things to do in Japan, here’s a preview of what to expect.

• Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo.
• Day 2: Tour Tokyo’s top attractions; experience a chanko sumo lunch.
• Day 3: Hakone Ropeway ride and lake trip en route to Hankone.
• Day 4: Transfer to Takayama and uncover culture.
• Day 5: Uncover UNESCO treasures and temples around Takayama.
• Day 6: Transfer to Kyoto and explore the Gion geisha district.
• Day 7: Explore Kyoto’s bamboo forest and cultural treasures.
• Day 8: Day trip from Kyoto — Hiroshima, Osaka, Nara or Himeji Castle.
• Day 9: Kyoto day of leisure and geisha dinner.
• Day 10: Depart Kyoto.

10 days in Japan itinerary

From Tokyo's dynamism, to Kyoto’s captivating cultural treasures, this 10-day Japan itinerary is loaded with unforgettable experiences, kicking off in the capital.

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo

Armed with our tips for traveling to Tokyo, after checking into your hotel, you’ll hopefully have time to get out there and start enjoying some of the best things to do in Tokyo.

So, shake off the jet lag and head to Shibuya. Home to the famous Shibuya Crossing, and the Shibuya Sky observation deck, it’s the perfect place to get a sense of the city’s scale and energy. 

The same applies to the towering Tokyo Sky Tree — one of the world’s tallest structures­.

Or, if you’re into Japan’s quirkier culture, head to Harajuku, where Takeshita Street plays host to all manner of fashion boutiques and cosplay costume stores.

Where to stay in Tokyo

When considering where to stay in Tokyo, we recommend checking out accommodation in Asakusa if you’re looking for traditional atmosphere, and want to be close to historic sites.

For a taste of youth culture, browse places in Harajuku, Aoyama and Shibuya.

Or, if you happen to be here during sakura season, consider places to stay in Ueno.

Day 2: Tour Tokyo’s top attractions; enjoy a chanko sumo lunch

Start the morning of day 2 of this Japan itinerary at the magnificent Meiji Jingu — a Shinto shrine located in Harajuku. 

Surrounded by a lush forest, the shrine offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. 

After entering the iconic towering torii gates, explore the peaceful grounds and take time to appreciate the artistry of its traditional architecture.

Next, head to the Imperial Palace in central Tokyo. While its inner grounds are closed to the public, the open East Gardens provide a picturesque glimpse into Japan’s imperial history. 

For lunch, travel to Ryogoku, Tokyo’s sumo district, and enjoy a chanko nabe meal. Packed with meat and veg, this hearty, protein-packed hotpot is a staple of sumo wrestlers’ diets.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the world of sumo with a visit to a sumo stable to watch a training session, or else explore the Sumo Museum, which showcases the history and culture of this ancient sport.

Day 3: Hakone Ropeway ride and lake trip en route to Hankone

Day 3 of this Japan itinerary will see you take an early train from Tokyo to the tranquil landscapes of Hakone.

Travel time: 90 minutes by train

Super-convenient and spectacularly scenic, there are many reasons to catch the Tokyo to Hakone train. Be sure to look out for majestic Mount Fuji along the way — if you get lucky with the weather, it’s an amazing sight.

After reaching Hakone-Yumoto station, make your way to the Hakone Tozan Railway, a cute mountain train that winds through thick forests to the Hakone Ropeway.

After riding the ropeway, enjoy a pirate-themed boat trip on Lake Ashi before bedding down in your Hakone ryokan, perhaps after chilling out in a hot onsen bath.

Where to stay in Hakone

Many places to stay in Hakone offer on-site hot spring baths and/or Mount Fuji views.

For example, with private natural hot spring baths and modern Japanese-style accommodation, Sengokuhara Shinanoki Ichinoyu is an excellent 4-star option.

Or, if you fancy the convenience of staying close to the station, try stylish Hakone Suimeiso — it’s also within easy reach of Sounji Temple.

Day 4: Transfer to Takayama and uncover culture 

Rise early to travel to Takayama — the journey involves a few transfers, and we suggest aiming to arrive around lunch time.

Travel time: 4.5-5.5 hours.

First, take the Hakone Tozan Railway to Odawara Station (15 minutes) before boarding the Shinkansen to Nagoya (1.5 hours). 

From Nagoya, transfer to the Limited Express Hida train to Takayama — a scenic 2.5-hour ride that runs through picturesque valleys.

On arrival, grab lunch (don’t miss the chance to try local Hida beef sushi or a hearty bowl of ramen) before visiting Takayama Jinya — a beautifully-preserved Edo-period government building that showcases traditional architecture and artifacts.

Next, stroll Kami Sannomachi Street, with its charming wooden merchant houses, sake breweries, and shops selling handmade crafts. 

Round off your day at the Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan, a museum dedicated to the town’s famous festival, which is held in spring and autumn.

Here you can admire the intricately crafted festival floats (yatai) around the year, and learn about their cultural significance. Some include incredible mechanical puppets (karakuri) that perform traditional movements during the festival.

Where to stay in Takayama

Places to stay in Takayama range from ultra-modern hotels with top facilities to more traditional guest houses and inns.

A fine example of the latter is Ryokan Warabino, with its open-air hot spring bath, on-site restaurant and mountain views.

Similarly, Yudanaka Seifuso is surrounded by scenic mountains, and boasts three hot spring baths and traditional style rooms with tatami-mat flooring. 

Day 5: Uncover UNESCO treasures and temples around Takayama

Start your day with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go village on Japan's Three Star Road.

Travel time: 50 minutes by bus to Shirakawa-go

Nestled in the remote Shogawa River Valley, Shirakawa-go is famous for its unique gassho-zukuri farmhouses — a traditional architectural style characterized by steeply pitched, thatched roofs that resemble hands pressed together in prayer ("gassho"). 

Such roofs are designed to withstand heavy snowfall in winter, and to provide attic space for silk farming.

The most famous settlement in Shirakawa-go is Ogimachi, where visitors can explore preserved houses, some of which are over 250 years old. 

Key attractions include the Wada House, and the Shiroyama Viewpoint, which offers breath-taking views of the entire settlement.

Come the afternoon, return to Takayama to explore historic temples in the Teramachi District.

Alternatively, head to Hida-Furukawa, a picturesque town that’s easily reached on a 15-minute train ride from Takayama. 

Here you can enjoy its koi-filled canals and beautifully preserved streets, with the Hida Crafts Museum showcasing local woodwork.

Day 6: Transfer to Kyoto; explore the Gion geisha district

Day 6 of this Japan itinerary will see you transfer from to Kyoto, with a view to arrive in the early afternoon.

One thing’s for sure, Japan’s cultural heart will win over your own heart as soon as you arrive.

Travel time: 2.5 hours by train to Nagoya, plus 40 minute-train to Kyoto

Having enjoyed a scenic train trip that traverses landscapes of beautiful valleys, rivers and mountains, check into your Kyoto accommodation and head to Ponto-cho, one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric areas. 

Located by the Kamo River, this narrow alley is lined with traditional wooden buildings that house restaurants, teahouses and bars. 

Next, explore nearby Hanami-koji Lane in the Gion district, which is famous for its traditional machiya townhouses and ochaya (teahouses).

Where to stay in Kyoto

Day 7: Explore Kyoto’s bamboo forest and cultural treasures

Day 7 will see you make use of Kyoto’s public transport to see its top sights, starting with an early morning visit to the Arashiyama bamboo forest, where towering stalks of bamboo create an utterly enchanting atmosphere. 

After wandering its winding paths, visit the nearby Tenryu-ji Temple — a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a stunning Zen garden.

Next, head to Ryoan-ji Temple. Home to one of Japan’s most famous rock gardens, its minimalist design embodies Zen principles of simplicity and balance.

Finish up a diverse day at the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a temple covered in shimmering gold leaf.

Surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, and reflected in a tranquil pond, it’s easy to see why this is one of Kyoto’s most photographed landmarks.

Day 8: Day trip from Kyoto — Hiroshima, Osaka, Nara or Himeji Castle

You face a big decision on day 8 of your 10 days in Japan. Namely, whether you want to devote your last full day in Japan to exploring Hiroshima, Osaka, Nara, or Himeji Castle.

Read on to help you make up your mind.

Hiroshima 

Travel time: 1 hour 40-minutes by Shinkansen 

Visiting Hiroshima is a powerfully reflective experience, with the Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome commemorating the events of 1945. 

After exploring the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the iconic Itsukushima Shrine with its floating torii gate. 

Osaka

Travel time: 30 minutes by JR Special Rapid Service, or 15 minutes by Shinkansen

Osaka — a city that boasts plenty of reasons to be on your radar — is ideal for travelers who want a lively day out. 

Start out at Osaka Castle, then explore the futuristic Umeda Sky Building for epic panoramic views. 

Next, head to the dazzling Dotonbori district to soak up vibrant neon lights, enjoy a canal-side stroll, and tuck into tasty street food.

Nara

Travel time: 45 minutes by train

Start your day by taking the train to Nara. From the station, it’s a 20-minute walk to the Todai-ji Temple.

Home to the Great Buddha, one of the largest bronze statues in the world, little wonder that this beauty is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Next, head to the nearby Nara Deer Park to see its famous free-roaming deer before visiting Kasuga Taisha Shrine. 

Dedicated to the deity of the Fujiwara clan, this Shinto shrine is famous for the thousands of bronze and stone lanterns that line its pathways.

Lastly leave time to explore Naramachi — a charming district of old merchant houses that now play host to charming cafés and boutiques

Himeji Castle

Travel time: 1 hour by Shinkansen

Himeji Castle – AKA the White Heron Castle — is Japan’s most pristine surviving feudal castle. 

As such, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers insights into the nation’s history and architectural excellence. 

After wandering the defensive mazes, climb the mighty six-storey main keep for panoramic views. 

Next, visit Kokoen Garden, a beautifully landscaped traditional garden of pretty ponds, waterfalls and tea houses. 

Finish up your day checking out Himeji's charming local shops and eateries, perhaps sampling regional specialties like anago (conger eel).

Day 9: Kyoto day of leisure and geisha dinner

Spend your last full day in Japan exploring Kyoto’s lesser-known treasures at a leisurely pace.

For example, you could start your morning with a stroll through the tranquil cherry-tree-lined Philosopher’s Path.

We also suggest visiting the quaint Nanzenji sub-temples before going to the Nishijin district to discover Kyoto’s traditional textile shops. 

Come the afternoon, unwind at the Kyoto Botanical Gardens before enjoying an exclusive geisha dinner in the Gion district in the evening.

During this experience, you’ll enjoy Kyoto’s finest cuisine accompanied by graceful performances from a geiko or maiko (apprentice geisha).

Day 10: Depart Kyoto

On day 10 of this diverse Japan itinerary, it’s time to prepare to fly home from Kyoto.

Still undecided about how long to spend in Japan? Take inspiration from our suggested 7 days Japan itinerary, and 14 days Japan-itinerary.

You could also contact our Japan travel experts to curate your dream trip, and take the hassle out of planning.