10 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

A 10-day adventure in Japan with friends sounds like an amazing experience! Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances culture, food, and fun, ensuring you all have a blast together. Here we go!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Check into your hotel or Airbnb in Shinjuku or Shibuya for easy access to attractions.
• Afternoon: Head to **[Shibuya Crossing](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=[Shibuya](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Shibuya&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")%20Crossing&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")**—the iconic scramble crossing. Snap some photos and grab lunch at a nearby café.
• Evening: Explore Harajuku. Stroll down Takeshita Street for quirky shops and delicious crepes. Dinner at an izakaya (Japanese pub) in Shinjuku for a fun group dining experience!

## Day 2: Tokyo Sightseeing

• Morning: Visit Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Don’t forget to try some traditional snacks from the stalls leading up to the temple!
• Afternoon: Head to Akihabara for some otaku culture. Check out the anime shops and maybe even a themed café.
• Evening: Dinner in Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) in Shinjuku, where you can enjoy yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and other local delights.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Nikko

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Nikko (about 2 hours from Tokyo). Visit the stunning Toshogu Shrine, enjoy the beautiful nature, and don’t miss the scenic Kegon Falls. Pack a picnic or grab lunch at a local eatery.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and relax at your accommodation or explore a local bar.

## Day 4: Travel to Kyoto

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (about 2-3 hours). Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Visit Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and stroll through its beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Dinner in the Gion district. If you’re lucky, you might spot a geisha! Try kaiseki (traditional multi-course meal) for a special treat.

## Day 5: Kyoto Temples and Culture

• Morning: Explore Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. It’s a great hike!
• Afternoon: Visit Arashiyama. Walk through the Bamboo Grove and visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park for some fun with the monkeys!
• Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at a local ramen shop.

## Day 6: Nara Day Trip

• All ## Day: Take a short train ride to Nara (about 1 hour). Visit Todai-ji Temple to see the Great Buddha and enjoy the friendly deer in Nara Park. Grab lunch at a local café.
• Evening: Return to Kyoto and relax. Maybe check out a local onsen (hot spring) for a soothing soak!

## Day 7: Osaka Adventure

• Morning: Travel to Osaka (about 30 minutes from Kyoto). Start with a visit to Osaka Castle.
• Afternoon: Head to Dotonbori for lunch and explore the vibrant street food scene. Try takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).
• Evening: Enjoy the nightlife in Dotonbori. Consider karaoke or a themed bar for a fun night out!

## Day 8: Hiroshima and Miyajima

• All ## Day: Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima (about 1.5 hours). Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Then, take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the famous floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine.
• Evening: Return to Hiroshima for dinner. Try the local specialty, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki!

## Day 9: Back to Tokyo

• Morning: Head back to Tokyo via Shinkansen. Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Explore Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh seafood and street food. Sample sushi and other local delicacies.
• Evening: Visit Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree for stunning views of the city at night. Dinner in the area.

## Day 10: Last Day in Tokyo

• Morning: Visit Meiji Shrine and take a peaceful stroll through the surrounding forest.
• Afternoon: Last-minute shopping in Shibuya or Ginza. Pick up souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant. Consider a themed restaurant for a memorable last night!

Bonus Tips:

• Make sure to get a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited travel on JR trains, which will save you money on your Shinkansen trips.
• Download a translation app to help with any language barriers.
• Always have cash on hand, as some places may not accept credit cards.

I hope this itinerary helps you and your friends have an unforgettable trip to Japan! Enjoy every moment! 🌸✈️🍣