10 day itinerary
Japan
Personalized with:Include must see placesOsaka, Nara, Kyoto, ShirakawagoInclude must eat places
Itinerary
Japan is a treasure trove of culture, history, and delicious food. With 10 days to explore, you can really dive into the heart of the Kansai region and beyond. Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary that includes must-see places and must-eat spots. Let’s get started!
Day 1: Arrival in Osaka
- Morning: Arrive at Kansai International Airport. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
- Afternoon: Head to . This vibrant district is famous for its neon lights and street food. Don’t miss trying Takoyaki (octopus balls) and Okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).
- Evening: Stroll along the Canal and snap a photo with the iconic Glico Man sign. For dinner, try Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Explore Osaka
- Morning: Visit . Explore the beautiful grounds and the museum inside.
- Lunch: Grab a bite at . Sample fresh sushi, grilled seafood, and local delicacies.
- Afternoon: Head to , one of Japan's oldest temples. Then, visit the for panoramic views of the city.
- Evening: Dinner at Mizuno for some of the best Okonomiyaki in town.
Day 3: Day Trip to Nara
- Morning: Take a train to Nara (about 45 minutes). Start at , where you can feed the friendly deer.
- Lunch: Enjoy a traditional meal at , known for its Kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves).
- Afternoon: Visit , home to the Great Buddha. Don’t forget to check out with its beautiful lanterns.
- Evening: Return to Osaka and have dinner at Yakiniku M, where you can grill your own meat.
Day 4: Kyoto - Temples and Culture
- Morning: Travel to Kyoto (about 30 minutes). Start at Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). The gardens are stunning!
- Lunch: Try Yudofu (tofu hot pot) at a nearby restaurant.
- Afternoon: Visit for its famous rock garden, then head to Arashiyama to see the Bamboo Grove and the .
- Evening: Dinner at . Sample various street foods like Tsukemono (pickled vegetables) and Yudofu.
Day 5: Kyoto - More Temples and Geisha Culture
- Morning: Visit early to beat the crowds. The thousands of red torii gates are breathtaking!
- Lunch: Enjoy Kaiseki (traditional multi-course meal) at .
- Afternoon: Explore the . You might spot a Geisha! Visit and stroll through the charming streets.
- Evening: Dinner at for some delicious Sukiyaki.
Day 6:
- Morning: Take a bus to (about 2.5 hours). The scenic views are worth it!
- Lunch: Try Hida Beef at a local restaurant.
- Afternoon: Explore the traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Don’t miss the for stunning views.
- Evening: Stay overnight in a traditional ryokan (inn) and enjoy a kaiseki dinner.
Day 7: to Takayama
- Morning: After breakfast at the ryokan, take a bus to Takayama (about 1 hour).
- Lunch: Visit the and then enjoy Hida Beef Sushi at a local eatery.
- Afternoon: Explore the district with its well-preserved Edo-period buildings. Visit the .
- Evening: Dinner at Kikuyasou for more Hida beef dishes.
Day 8: Takayama to Kanazawa
- Morning: Travel to Kanazawa (about 2.5 hours). Start at , one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens.
- Lunch: Try Jibuni (a local duck dish) at Fuwari.
- Afternoon: Visit and the .
- Evening: Dinner at . Sample fresh seafood and local specialties.
Day 9: Kanazawa to Osaka
- Morning: Head back to Osaka (about 3 hours). Check into your hotel.
- Lunch: Enjoy Ramen at Ichiran or Ippudo.
- Afternoon: Visit , one of Japan's oldest shrines.
- Evening: Explore for shopping and have dinner at again, trying anything you missed earlier!
Day 10: Departure
- Morning: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Consider visiting if time allows.
- Lunch: Enjoy a final meal of Bento at the airport.
- Afternoon: Head to Kansai International Airport for your departure.
And there you have it! A delightful 10-day itinerary filled with must-see sights and must-eat foods. Japan is a place that will capture your heart, and I hope you have an amazing adventure! Safe travels! 🌸✈️🍣