9 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan is such a vibrant country with a rich culture, delicious food, and stunning sights. Here’s a fun and exciting 9-day itinerary that includes Universal Studios Osaka and starts from Narita Airport. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita Airport. After clearing customs, take the Narita Express (N'EX) to Tokyo. It’s a comfortable ride and gives you a glimpse of the countryside.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel in Tokyo. After settling in, head to Asakusa to visit the iconic Senso-ji Temple. Don’t forget to stroll through Nakamise Street for some delicious snacks and souvenirs!
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in Asakusa. Try some tempura or soba noodles. If you’re up for it, take a walk along the Sumida River for a lovely view of the Tokyo Skytree lit up at night.

## Day 2: Tokyo Exploration

• Morning: Start your day in [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"). Visit 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 take a photo with the Hachiko statue. Grab a coffee at a nearby café.
• Afternoon: Head to Harajuku to explore Takeshita Street. It’s a great place for quirky shops and unique fashion. Don’t miss trying a crepe from one of the many stands!
• Evening: Make your way to [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 a free observation deck view. For dinner, explore the vibrant Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) for some yakitori and local izakaya vibes.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Nikko

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the stunning Toshogu Shrine, the beautiful Kegon Falls, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of Lake Chuzenji. It’s a bit of travel, but the natural beauty is worth it!
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and relax. Maybe grab a late-night ramen at a local spot.

## Day 4: Travel to Osaka

• Morning: Check out of your hotel and take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Osaka. It’s a quick ride, and you’ll love the experience!
• Afternoon: Arrive in Osaka and check into your hotel. Head to Dotonbori for lunch. Try the famous takoyaki and okonomiyaki!
• Evening: Explore Dotonbori further. The neon lights and lively atmosphere are a must-see. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the Glico Man sign!

## Day 5: Universal Studios Osaka

• All ## Day: Spend the day at Universal Studios Japan! Arrive early to make the most of your time. Don’t miss the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the thrilling rides, and the amazing shows. Grab lunch inside the park to maximize your fun!
• Evening: After a fun-filled day, head back to Dotonbori for dinner. Try some kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) to end the day on a delicious note.

## Day 6: Kyoto Day Trip

• All ## Day: Take a short train ride to Kyoto. Start with the stunning Fushimi Inari Taisha with its thousands of red torii gates. Then, visit Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and stroll through its beautiful gardens.
• Afternoon: Head to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and take a walk through the serene paths. If time allows, visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park for some fun with the monkeys!
• Evening: Return to Osaka and enjoy a relaxing dinner. Maybe try some sushi or a local izakaya.

## Day 7: Nara Day Trip

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Nara, Japan’s first capital. Visit Todai-ji Temple to see the Great Buddha and enjoy the friendly deer in Nara Park. Don’t forget to try some kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves) for lunch!
• Evening: Return to Osaka. If you’re up for it, explore the nightlife in the Namba area.

## Day 8: Osaka to Hiroshima

• Morning: Check out of your hotel and take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima.
• Afternoon: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum to learn about the city’s history. Then, take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the famous floating Torii Gate at Itsukushima Shrine.
• Evening: Enjoy some Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner before heading back to your hotel.

## Day 9: Return to Tokyo

• Morning: Check out of your hotel and take the Shinkansen back to Tokyo.
• Afternoon: Spend your last day 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"). You can also visit Akihabara if you’re into anime and electronics!
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant. Maybe try a kaiseki meal for a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine.
• Night: Head back to your hotel to pack and prepare for your departure.

Departure ## Day

• Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Make sure to leave for Narita Airport with plenty of time to spare!

And there you have it! A fun-filled 9-day adventure in Japan, packed with culture, food, and unforgettable experiences. Enjoy your trip! 🌸✈️