One Week in Japan: The Best 7-Day Itinerary for First-Timers
A practical 7-day Japan itinerary covering Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and day trips. Everything you need to know to make the most of one week in Japan.
Seven days in Japan is not a lot of time. But it's enough to see some of the best the country has to offer — if you plan it right.
Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo
Check in, explore your neighborhood, and grab food from a convenience store.
Day 2: Tokyo — East Side
- Asakusa
- Ueno
- Akihabara
Day 3: Tokyo — West Side
- Meiji Shrine
- Harajuku
- Shibuya
- Shinjuku
Day 4: Tokyo → Kyoto
Take the shinkansen and visit Fushimi Inari.
Day 5: Kyoto
Explore Higashiyama, Kiyomizudera, and Gion.
Day 6: Arashiyama or Nara
Choose between bamboo grove or deer park.
Day 7: Osaka
Visit Dotonbori and enjoy street food.
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