By Ranugi Thihansa

From ancient temples and geisha-lined streets to neon lights and anime culture, Japan is a land where time beautifully blends tradition with modernity. This 10-day journey takes you across serene shrines, iconic cities, and unforgettable cultural experiences offering a little something for every traveler.

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo – Dive into the Heart of Japan

Your journey in Japan begins in Tokyo, a big city where old temples and modern skyscrapers exist together. After landing at either Haneda or Narita Airport, check into your hotel and take the rest of the day to unwind. In the evening, head to Shibuya, home of the world-famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing and the Hachiko statue. If you’re in the mood for shopping, explore Shibuya Hikarie, a stylish mall filled with fashion, cosmetics, and dining options. Watch the city come alive under neon lights and enjoy your first meal. Perhaps some sushi or ramen from a local izakaya.

Highlights: Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko statue, Japanese street food
Advice: Use this day to recover from jet lag. Stay hydrated and avoid packed schedules.

Day 2: Anime Adventures and Historic Tokyo

Start your day in Akihabara, Tokyo’s anime and electronics hub. Explore massive stores like Animate, Mandarake and Radio Kaikan, or relax at a themed café. In the afternoon, visit Asakusa to experience Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji and walk through Nakamise Street, lined with traditional snacks and souvenirs.

Highlights: Akihabara anime stores, Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise shopping street
Advice: Carry cash because some small shops and street vendors may not accept cards.

Day 3: Day Trip to Nikko – Sacred Shrines and Scenic Beauty

Take a morning train to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the mountains north of Tokyo. Explore the ornate Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu and enjoy the natural beauty of Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji. Return to Tokyo in the evening.

Highlights: Toshogu Shrine, Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji
Advice: Dress in layers it can be cooler in the mountains than in Tokyo.

Day 4: Journey to Hakone – Fuji Views and Onsen Relaxation

Board a train for Hakone, a scenic area famous for hot springs and views of Mount Fuji. Cruise on Lake Ashi, ride the Hakone Ropeway and visit the Owakudani volcanic valley. Spend the night in a traditional ryokan and experience a relaxing onsen bath and kaiseki dinner.

Highlights: Lake Ashi, Hakone Ropeway, traditional ryokan stay
Advice: Onsen baths may not allow tattoos so check in advance or use private baths.

Day 5: Kyoto Arrival – A Step Back in Time

Travel west via the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital. After checking in, take a quiet walk in Gion, Kyoto’s geisha district. Enjoy dinner in a traditional setting and watch for glimpses of geisha on cobbled lanes lit with paper lanterns.

Highlights: Shinkansen ride, Gion District, traditional Kyoto dining
Advice: Reserve your bullet train seat ahead of time, especially during peak seasons.

Day 6: Temples, Tea and Tranquility in Kyoto

Spend your day visiting Kyoto’s iconic sites: the shimmering Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), the peaceful Ryoan-ji Zen garden and the striking red gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha. In the afternoon, sip matcha at a teahouse and take in the atmosphere of old Kyoto.

Highlights: Kinkaku-ji, Fushimi Inari Shrine, traditional tea ceremony
Advice: Start early to avoid crowds at popular temples.

Day 7: Day Trip to Nara

Take a short train ride to Nara, Japan’s first capital. Walk through Nara Park, where sacred deer freely roam and visit the massive Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha. Return to Kyoto for a quiet evening or a local izakaya dinner.

Highlights: Todai-ji Temple, Nara deer, historic temples
Advice: Be gentle with the deer—though friendly, they can be pushy for snacks!

Day 8: Osaka Arrival – Food, Fun, and Nightlife

Head to Osaka, a lively city known for its street food and friendly locals. Start at Osaka Castle, then spend your evening in the buzzing streets of Dotonbori, tasting takoyaki and okonomiyaki. The vibrant nightlife here offers something for everyone.

Highlights: Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, street food adventure
Advice: Try a river cruise at night to see Dotonbori’s neon reflections.

Day 9: Anime in Osaka – Nipponbashi and Beyond

Explore Nipponbashi Denden Town, Osaka’s answer to Akihabara. Discover anime figures, cosplay stores, themed cafés, and manga shops. If you’re more into pop culture, visit Universal Studios Japan with its Super Nintendo World and anime-themed attractions.

Highlights: Denden Town, anime shopping, Universal Studios Japan (optional)
Advice: Allocate a full day for Universal Studios if you plan to go, it gets crowded!

Day 10: Sayonara Japan – Departure or Tokyo Return

Wrap up your trip with a relaxing breakfast. Depending on your flight, you may squeeze in last-minute shopping or a visit to a local shrine. If you’re flying out from Tokyo, return via bullet train. Otherwise, head to Kansai International Airport from Osaka.

Highlights: Last-minute souvenirs, relaxing send-off
Advice: Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours early for international flights.

 Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Buy a JR Pass to save money on long-distance train travel between cities.
• Book Ghibli Museum tickets in advance online—they often sell out quickly.
• Use IC cards (like Suica or Pasmo) for quick and easy payments on local transport and even at convenience stores.
• Stay near major train stations (such as Shinjuku in Tokyo or Kyoto Station) to save travel time and access major attractions easily.