Japan had been on my bucket list for years - and this 10-day adventure absolutely delivered. From neon-lit Tokyo nights to serene Kyoto temples, vibrant Osaka streets, and the moving history of Hiroshima, this itinerary gives you the perfect mix of modern energy, deep tradition, incredible food, and unforgettable experiences.

If you’re planning your first trip to Japan, here’s exactly how we spent 10 magical days - plus insider tips to make your journey smooth, memorable, and uniquely yours.

TOKYO

Arrival – Neon Nights in Shinjuku

We landed in Tokyo late in the evening and checked into the Hyatt Regency Tokyo. Despite the jet lag, we headed straight out - Tokyo at night is something else.

We wandered through Kabukicho, hypnotised by the flashing lights and giant screens, and tracked down the famous 3D cat billboard. Dinner was at Omoide Yokocho, a tiny lantern-lit alley of smoky yakitori spots, followed by drinks in Golden Gai, famous for its teeny, character-filled bars. It was chaotic, vibrant, slightly overwhelming - and the perfect introduction to Japan.

Day 1 – Temples & Sky-High Views

We started our morning at Sensō-ji - Tokyo’s oldest temple. The contrast between the traditional red architecture and the modern skyline behind it is incredible.

From there, we wandered down Nakamise Street, sampling matcha treats, browsing souvenirs and soaking up the atmosphere.

Next stop: Tokyo Skytree. Tickets were around £16 and gave access to both observation decks. On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji - unfortunately, the weather wasn’t on our side that day.

That evening, we headed back to Shinjuku for dinner at a small, authentic yakitori restaurant - smoky, cosy and exactly what we were craving.

Day 2 – Sushi for Breakfast & Tokyo Tower Views

We had sushi for breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market because when in Japan! Fresh oysters, matcha desserts and foodie souvenirs made it such a fun start to the day.

After that, we wandered into Ginza, Tokyo’s high-end shopping district. The Uniqlo flagship store was dangerous - everything was 40–70% cheaper than back home… and yes, damage was done.

One thing I was so excited to do was the famous street go-kart experience. However… we forgot our international driving permits. Lesson learned -don’t be like us!

Instead, we ended the day at Zōjō-ji with Tokyo Tower glowing behind it - which honestly turned out to be the most beautiful alternative.

Day 3 – Shibuya Energy & Meiji Calm

We started with immersive digital art at teamLab Borderless (next time I’d love to try teamLab Planets too).

Then it was time for the iconic Shibuya Crossing and the Hachikō Statue. Honestly? Slightly underwhelming - but still worth seeing once.

Shopping highlights included Shibuya 109, Parco and Mega Don Quijote (I absolutely went wild in the skincare section).

Later, we escaped the buzz at Meiji Shrine - a peaceful oasis that feels worlds away from the city outside.

That evening we queued for 30 minutes for teppanyaki in Shibuya - and it was SO worth it. We ended up in a nearby bar chatting to locals who treated us like friends. One of those spontaneous travel nights you never forget.

Day 4 – Snowy Shinkansen to Kyoto

We woke up to snow, which made Tokyo feel even more magical.

Before leaving, I have to say - the Tokyo metro system is nowhere near as intimidating as it looks. I’d heard so many horror stories about how confusing it is, but it was honestly one of the easiest transport systems I’ve ever used.

Everything is clearly signposted in English, each line is colour-coded, and Google Maps was spot on for platforms and timings. We used a Suica card and just tapped in and out everywhere, which made getting around completely stress-free. Despite how busy it looks, trains run like clockwork and everything feels incredibly organised.

After a few days, we felt like total pros.

We took it slow that morning before heading to Tokyo Station to catch the Shinkansen. Top tip: book seats on the right-hand side for Mount Fuji views. Sadly, with snowfall, we knew it wasn’t happening for us.

By 3pm, we were on our way to Kyoto.

KYOTO

We stayed at Androoms Kyoto Shichijo - a super modern, minimalist hotel in a great location near the station. It felt calm and cosy after Tokyo’s intensity.

Kyoto instantly feels different. Slower. Softer. More traditional.

Day 5 – Torii Gates & Sunset Views in Gion

We started at Fushimi Inari Taisha, walking through the iconic red torii gates. You don’t need to hike the entire route - even the lower sections are magical.

After refuelling at a cute nearby coffee spot, we explored Nishiki Market - mochi, matcha treats, yakitori… we tried everything.

We then wandered through Gion’s historic streets, including Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka - it genuinely feels like stepping back in time.

Sunset at Kiyomizu-dera was breathtaking. The wooden terrace overlooking the city is something special.

Day 6 – Arashiyama & River Views

We headed to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove early to beat the crowds. Walking through the towering bamboo is surreal - the way the sunlight filters through the stalks makes it somewhat calming. Tip: start at the Tenryu-ji side entrance for a quieter, less touristy route.

Afterwards, we wandered along the Katsura River, taking in the calm water and surrounding hills. A boat ride would have been perfect, but the chilly weather kept us on solid ground - still, the peaceful riverside stroll was a highlight of the day.

Day 7– Matcha in Uji & Onward to Osaka

We took a short trip to Uji, famous as the home of matcha. Byodoin Omotesando Street was lined with stalls selling everything matcha - including matcha ramen and pasta (yes, really). Not everyone adds Uji to their Japan itinerary, but as a matcha addict, it was a must for me - I even treated myself to a brand-new matcha kit to bring home!

That evening, we headed to Osaka - Tip: Take the metro to Osaka it is a quarter of the price of the bullet train and takes the same amount of time

OSAKA

Osaka has such an energetic, playful vibe - it feels different from both Tokyo and Kyoto. We stayed at Umedaholic Hotel. It was not the fanciest, but its location was superb - less than a 10-minute walk to Osaka station.

Day 8 – Universal Studios Japan

We spent a full day at Universal Studios Japan - and yes, it absolutely lives up to the hype. From Super Nintendo World to the Wizarding World, it was such a fun, high-energy day.

We actually did not purchase a fast-track ticket, but they offer a “singles” queue on rides that go way faster. You may be at a chance of riding alone, but for the sake of an hour at times, it is definitely worth it.

Nintendo World at Universal Studios, Osaka

Day 9 – Day Trip to Hiroshima & Miyajima

We took the Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka to Hiroshima (around 1.5 hours).

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome from the 1945 nuclear disaster were emotional but incredibly important to visit.

In the afternoon, we took a boat from the Peace Memorial Park and visited Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island and saw the famous floating torii gate - truly unforgettable -the perfect way to end this day before taking the Shinkansen back to Osaka.

Day 10 – Osaka Highlights & Home

Before heading home, we explored Osaka Castle, stopped by Namba Yasaka Shrine (home to the giant lion head stage) and had lunch in Shinsekai.

That evening, we travelled back to Tokyo for our flight home - already talking about when we could return.

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Why Japan Should Be on Your Bucket List

Japan completely exceeded my expectations.

From the organised chaos of Tokyo to the quiet beauty of Kyoto and the powerful history of Hiroshima, every stop felt different - yet perfectly connected. It’s rare to visit a country that feels so modern and so deeply traditional at the same time.

More than anything, what stayed with me was the feeling. The kindness of strangers. The calm efficiency. The tiny details in everything - from convenience store snacks to temple gardens.

Japan isn’t just somewhere you visit. It’s somewhere you experience.

6 Essential Tips Before Visiting Japan

1. Get a Suica card – You can download it for free on iPhone. It makes transport effortless.

2. Download the SmartEX app – Book Shinkansen at the best rates.

3. Always carry cash – Japan is not fully cashless. 7/11 has the best ATMs.

4. There are hardly any rubbish bins – Bring a small plastic bag in your handbag.

5. Follow local etiquette – No walking while eating and no loud conversations on trains.

6. Take advantage of luggage transfer services between cities - yes, it’s a real thing! Your hotel can arrange for your bags to be sent ahead.

Planning your own 10-day Japan itinerary? I help create fully personalised Japan trips - from hotels and rail passes to restaurant reservations and theme park tickets. let’s start planning click HERE for a FREE quote today.

Your Friendly 10-Day Japan Itinerary: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & Beyond