7-Day Japan Itinerary: Tokyo Kyoto & Osaka Highlights

Before You Go: Rail Pass & Connectivity

For a seamless week in Japan, begin by securing a Japan Rail (JR) Pass. Valid on most bullet trains and local JR lines, it offers excellent value for intercity travel. Activate your pass upon arrival at major stations in Tokyo or Osaka, then simply show it at ticket gates [2]. To stay connected, rent a pocket Wi-Fi or purchase a prepaid SIM card. These options ensure reliable internet in cities, rural areas, and on long-distance trains [1].

Day 1-2: Tokyo’s Shibuya, Shinjuku & Asakusa

Shibuya & Shinjuku

Begin at the famous Shibuya Crossing; snap photos near the Hachiko Statue.
Explore Shinjuku’s neon-lit streets and visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for free observation decks.
After dark, consider Golden Gai for tiny themed bars and local nightlife [3].

Asakusa & Senso-ji

On Day 2, head to Asakusa to experience Old Tokyo. Wander down Nakamise-dori’s stalls, then pay respects at Senso-ji Temple. Nearby Sumida Park provides riverside views of Tokyo Skytree. For dinner, sample tempura or monjayaki in the historic district [3].

Day 3: Mt Fuji & Hakone Day Trip

Take an early Romancecar train or bullet train-plus-local bus to Hakone, the gateway to Mt Fuji views and hot springs. Ride the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani volcanic valley, then cruise Lake Ashi by pirate ship replica. If skies are clear, catch Fuji’s iconic silhouette from Togendai Port. Return to Tokyo in the evening, refreshed from onsen time [2].

Day 4-5: Kyoto Temples & Gion District

Day 4: Eastern Kyoto

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple early to avoid crowds and enjoy city vistas.
Stroll the Philosopher’s Path, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
Conclude at Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) with its serene moss gardens [1].

Day 5: Arashiyama & Gion

Morning: Wander through the Bamboo Grove and visit Tenryu-ji Temple.
Optional: Take a boat ride on the Hozu River or meet macaque monkeys at Iwatayama Monkey Park.
Evening: Explore the historic streets of Gion, spotting geiko and maiko (geisha entertainers) if you’re lucky.

Day 6: Osaka Food Streets & Castle

Dōtonbori & Kuromon Market

Arrive in Osaka and dive straight into its culinary scene. Dōtonbori’s neon signs light up canal-front eateries serving takoyaki and okonomiyaki. For fresh sushi, seafood and street snacks, head to Kuromon Ichiba Market [3].

Osaka Castle & Umeda Sky

In the afternoon, explore Osaka Castle’s grounds and museum. Then travel to Umeda to ascend the Floating Garden Observatory at Umeda Sky Building for panoramic city views as the sun sets.

Day 7: Nara Park & Departure

On your final day, take a short train ride to Nara. In Nara Park, freely roaming deer welcome visitors—purchase crackers to feed them. Nearby, admire the giant Buddha statue inside Todai-ji Temple and stroll through Kasuga Taisha’s lantern-lined pathways. Return to your departure city, collecting last-minute souvenirs en route.

Where to Stay & Transport Tips

Tokyo: Stay in Shinjuku or Tokyo Station area for rapid JR and subway access.
Kyoto: Book near Kawaramachi or Kyoto Station for convenient temple tours.
Osaka: Namba or Umeda districts offer nightlife and easy airport transfers.
Purchase an IC card (Suica, Pasmo, ICOCA) to tap on subways, buses and convenience stores.

Cultural Etiquette & Seasonal Advice

When visiting shrines and temples, bow at torii gates, cleanse hands at chozuya and remove shoes where indicated. On trains, speak quietly and set phones to silent mode. Slurp noodles—it’s a compliment to the chef. For seasonal travel:

Spring: Aim for late March to early April to catch cherry blossoms.
Autumn: Mid-November often delivers peak foliage colors.
Winter: Hot springs in Hakone and snow-viewing in higher elevations.

Conclusion

This 7-day itinerary offers a balanced mix of Japan’s urban highlights, cultural heritage and natural beauty. By planning with a JR Pass, pacing your temple visits, savoring local flavors and respecting customs, you’ll return home with rich memories of Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and beyond.

References

[1] Japan National Tourism Organization – Connect & Communicate. https://www.japan.travel/en/
[2] Japan Guide – Mt. Fuji & Hakone Day Trip. https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e623a.html
[3] Lonely Planet – Japan Travel Guide. https://www.lonelyplanet.com/japan