10 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan is a fantastic destination with a rich blend of history, culture, and modernity. Here’s a fun and engaging 10-day itinerary that balances shopping, dining, historical exploration, and museum visits. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Head to [Shibuya](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=[Shibuya](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Shibuya&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround"). Explore the famous [Shibuya](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=[Shibuya](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Shibuya&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround") Crossing and visit the Hachiko Statue.
• Lunch: Grab a quick bite at Uobei [Shibuya](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=[Shibuya](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Shibuya&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround") Dogenzaka, a fun conveyor belt sushi restaurant.
• Evening: Stroll through Harajuku. Don’t miss Takeshita Street for quirky shops and unique fashion.
• Dinner: Enjoy a meal at Ichiran Ramen for a delicious solo dining experience.

## Day 2: Tokyo - Culture and Shopping

• Morning: Visit the Meiji Shrine, a serene spot surrounded by forest.
• Lunch: Try a traditional kaiseki meal at Kikunoi Akasaka.
• Afternoon: Head to Omotesando for upscale shopping and architecture. Check out Omotesando Hills.
• Evening: Explore [Shinjuku](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=[Shinjuku](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Shinjuku&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround"). Visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for panoramic views.
• Dinner: Dine at Omoide Yokocho, a narrow alley filled with izakayas (Japanese pubs).

## Day 3: Tokyo - Museums and More

• Morning: Visit the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park to dive into Japan’s history.
• Lunch: Enjoy a bento box at Ueno Park.
• Afternoon: Explore Akihabara, the mecca for electronics and otaku culture. Don’t forget to check out the themed cafes!
• Evening: Head to Ginza for high-end shopping and window shopping.
• Dinner: Treat yourself to sushi at Sushi Zanmai.

## Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko

• Morning: Take an early train to Nikko (about 2 hours). Visit the stunning Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Lunch: Try local specialties like yuba (tofu skin) at a nearby restaurant.
• Afternoon: Explore Nikko National Park and see the beautiful Kegon Falls.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and relax at your hotel.
• Dinner: Enjoy a casual meal at Naritaya Ramen.

## Day 5: Kyoto - Temples and Tea

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Lunch: Try yudofu (tofu hot pot) at Nanzenji Junsei.
• Afternoon: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and stroll through its beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Explore the Gion District. Keep an eye out for geishas!
• Dinner: Dine at Gion Karyo for a traditional kaiseki experience.

## Day 6: Kyoto - History and Shopping

• Morning: Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of red torii gates.
• Lunch: Enjoy a meal at Inari Sushi near the shrine.
• Afternoon: Head to Nishiki Market for shopping and sampling local delicacies.
• Evening: Visit Arashiyama and walk through the Bamboo Grove.
• Dinner: Try Yudofu at Shoraian in Arashiyama.

## Day 7: Osaka - Food and Fun

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Osaka. Start your day at Osaka Castle.
• Lunch: Head to Dotonbori for street food. Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki!
• Afternoon: Explore the shops in Shinsaibashi.
• Evening: Visit the Umeda Sky Building for stunning views of the city.
• Dinner: Enjoy a meal at Kushikatsu Daruma for some delicious skewers.

## Day 8: Hiroshima - History and Peace

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima (about 1.5 hours). Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
• Lunch: Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Okonomi-mura.
• Afternoon: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the iconic Itsukushima Shrine.
• Evening: Return to Hiroshima and relax at your hotel.
• Dinner: Enjoy local oysters at Kakiya.

## Day 9: Nara and Back to Tokyo

• Morning: Take a train to Nara (about 1 hour). Visit Todai-ji Temple and see the Great Buddha.
• Lunch: Try Nara’s famous kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves).
• Afternoon: Stroll through Nara Park and feed the friendly deer.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo via Shinkansen.
• Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Nobu Tokyo.

## Day 10: Departure

• Morning: Last-minute shopping in [Shinjuku](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=[Shinjuku](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Shinjuku&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround") or [Shibuya](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=[Shibuya](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Shibuya&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround"). Don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs!
• Lunch: Grab a quick meal at a local café or convenience store.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

And there you have it! A delightful 10-day itinerary that captures the essence of Japan, blending shopping, dining, and rich historical experiences. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! Safe travels! 🌸✈️