Japan in 7 Days

Tokyo's neon buzz, Kyoto's ancient temples, and Osaka's legendary street food — the essential Japan trip.

7 days · 14 activities

Day 1

• 10:00 Explore Shibuya & Harajuku — Tokyo
  Cross the world's busiest intersection at Shibuya Crossing, then walk to Harajuku's Takeshita Street for quirky fashion and crêpes. The Starbucks overlooking the crossing has great views.
• 14:00 Meiji Shrine — Tokyo
  Tokyo's most important Shinto shrine set in a tranquil forest. Walk through the massive torii gate. Write a wish on an ema (wooden plaque). Free entry. Dress respectfully.

Day 2

• 08:30 Senso-ji Temple & Asakusa — Tokyo
  Tokyo's oldest temple. Enter through the iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and browse Nakamise-dori shopping street for traditional snacks and souvenirs. Draw an omikuji fortune for 100 yen.
• 13:00 TeamLab Borderless — Tokyo
  Immersive digital art museum in Azabudai Hills. Walk through rooms of flowing projections, interactive flowers, and light installations. Book timed tickets well in advance — they sell out fast.

Day 3

• 08:00 Tsukiji Outer Market — Tokyo
  While the inner fish market moved to Toyosu, the outer market remains a food paradise. Try fresh sushi, tamagoyaki (Japanese omelette), and gyoza. Many stalls close by early afternoon.
• 13:00 Akihabara & Shinjuku — Tokyo
  Akihabara is Tokyo's electronics and anime district — explore multi-floor arcades and manga shops. Then head to Shinjuku for the neon-lit Golden Gai (tiny bar alley) and Omoide Yokocho for yakitori.

Day 4

• 14:00 Fushimi Inari Shrine — Kyoto
  Famous for thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up Mount Inari. The full loop takes ~2 hours. For fewer crowds, go past the first viewpoint. Free entry. Great photos at the gate tunnels.

Day 5

• 08:00 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove — Kyoto
  Walk through towering bamboo stalks that create a magical canopy. Arrive before 09:00 for the best photos without crowds. Nearby: Tenryu-ji temple garden and the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge.
• 11:00 Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion — Kyoto
  The gold-leaf covered pavilion reflecting in the mirror pond is Kyoto's most iconic image. Part of the UNESCO Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. Your entry ticket is a lucky charm (ofuda).
• 17:30 Gion District Evening Walk — Kyoto
  Kyoto's famous geisha district. Walk along Hanami-koji street to spot maiko (apprentice geisha) heading to engagements around dusk. Beautiful traditional wooden machiya houses. Please don't chase or block geisha for photos.

Day 6

• 10:30 Osaka Castle — Osaka
  The castle tower houses a museum on Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Osaka's history. The top floor offers panoramic city views. The surrounding park is beautiful for a stroll, especially during cherry blossom season.
• 17:00 Dotonbori Street Food Tour — Osaka
  Osaka is Japan's street food capital. Must-try: takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancake), gyoza, and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). The Glico Running Man sign and neon lights are iconic.

Day 7

• 10:00 Namba & Shinsaibashi Shopping — Osaka
  Shinsaibashi-suji is Osaka's longest covered shopping arcade (~600m). Mix of international brands and local boutiques. Namba Parks has a rooftop garden. Don Quijote is great for quirky souvenirs.
• 14:00 Kuromon Market — Osaka
  Known as 'Osaka's Kitchen'. Over 150 stalls selling fresh seafood, fruit, and street food. Try giant grilled scallops, mochi, and fresh uni (sea urchin). Go hungry.