Japan offers a mesmerising blend of ancient heritage and cutting-edge modernity, making it a dream destination for lovers of culture and history. This 10-day itinerary is designed to lead you through Japan’s most iconic cities and hidden gems, with daily activities focused on immersive, authentic experiences that showcase the country’s creative spirit, craftsmanship, festivals, food, spirituality, and vibrant modern life.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine for a tranquil start in Tokyo’s sacred forest.
- Stroll Harajuku’s Takeshita Street for youth culture and fashion.
- Evening: Explore Shibuya Scramble and sample street foods.
Day 2: Old and New Tokyo
- Walk through historic Asakusa and Sensō-ji Temple.
- Traditional lunch at an old-school udon or soba shop.
- Afternoon in Ueno: Visit Tokyo National Museum to understand Japanese art and history.
- Optional: Tea ceremony in a local chashitsu.
Day 3: Contemporary Culture
- Morning in Akihabara (pop culture hub: anime, manga, electronics).
- Visit Mori Art Museum or teamLab Borderless for modern digital art.
- Explore Ginza for galleries and upscale shops.
Day 4: Hakone or Nikko Day Trip
- Option 1: Hakone – Open Air Museum, hot springs and mountain views of Mt. Fuji.
- Option 2: Nikko – UNESCO-listed Tosho-gu Shrine, forested paths, and waterfalls.
- Return to Tokyo in the evening.
Day 5: Journey to Kyoto
- Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto.
- Afternoon: Wander the historic Gion district; spot geiko and maiko (apprentice geisha).
- Dinner: Kaiseki meal (traditional multi-course cuisine).
Day 6: Temples & Traditions in Kyoto
- Early morning at Fushimi Inari Taisha (iconic red gates).
- Visit Kiyomizu-dera and the Higashiyama district.
- Participate in a traditional tea ceremony in a machiya (townhouse).
- Evening: Stroll Maruyama Park and view pagoda-lit streets.
Day 7: Arashiyama and Cultural Workshops
- Bamboo Grove walk in Arashiyama.
- Visit Tenryu-ji (Zen temple) and Iwatayama Monkey Park.
- Try a cultural experience: kimono wearing, washi (Japanese paper) making, or kintsugi (pottery repair).
- Riverside dinner with local tofu specialties.
Day 8: Day Trip to Nara or Uji
- Nara: See Todai-ji’s Great Buddha and friendly deer in Nara Park. Visit Kasuga Taisha, with its thousands of stone lanterns.
- Uji: Tour Byodo-in Temple and taste world-famous matcha green tea.
- Return to Kyoto for the evening.
Day 9: Hiroshima & Miyajima
- Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima.
- Visit Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
- Ferry to Miyajima Island to see the floating Torii of Itsukushima Shrine.
- Sample Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for lunch.
Day 10: Osaka or Kanazawa Finale
- Osaka: Explore Osaka Castle, eat at Kuromon Ichiba Market, lively Dotonbori for street food, and neon lights.
- Kanazawa: Marvel at Kenrokuen Garden and the Nagamachi samurai district, and try gold-leaf crafts.
- Depart from Osaka/Kansai or Tokyo, depending on your onward journey.
Tips for Culture Lovers
- Book local tours and workshops in advance.
- Stay in a ryokan (traditional inn) at least one night for an immersive experience.
- Try an onsen (hot spring bath) where possible.
- Respect customs: bowing, quiet public behavior, and removing shoes indoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
English is spoken in tourist spots, but learning key phrases will help your cultural experiences feel richer.
Check local event calendars; matsuri (festivals) take place year-round and are worth timing your trip for.
Absolutely! Major rail passes offer flexible city connections. Customize stops to match your interests.