Welcome, world travelers and fellow dreamers! Picture yourself beneath the fiery leaves of a Japanese maple, caught in the swirl of Tokyo’s lively districts, or perhaps in quiet reflection by a Kyoto temple. You’ve set your sights on Japan, a nation that has mastered the art of weaving together the old and the new, the tranquil and the bustling, in an unforgettable symphony of experiences. Join Viewcation for the Absolute Best Japan Itinerary (10 Days).
You’re not here for an ordinary journey; you’re here for a ride of a lifetime. You want the best 10-day Japan vacation itinerary that unlocks the mystique, vibrance, and allure of this unique island nation. An itinerary that doesn’t just scratch the surface but allows you to step into the heart of Japan, connecting with its rhythms and layers that make it such a cherished destination for travelers across the globe.
Join us as we traverse the neon and noise, the temples and tea houses, the high-speed trains and hillside shrines. From the pulsating veins of Tokyo’s cityscape to the hushed whispers of Kyoto’s age-old structures, from Hokkaido’s wild frontiers to Hiroshima’s poignant history, Japan serves a smorgasbord of experiences that refuse to fit into neat categories.
This video is your golden ticket, your magic carpet ride, your compass guiding you through the vivid landscapes of Japan, across 10 unforgettable days. A journey that, while only a snapshot, promises to be as diverse and fascinating as the nation itself. Join Viewcation for the Absolute Best Japan Itinerary (10 Days).
Viewcation Presents: The Absolute Best Japan Itinerary (10 Days)
Preparing for Your Ten-Day Adventure in Japan
When you’re preparing for a ten-day trip to Japan, careful planning will ensure your experience is smooth and enjoyable. Start with your packing. Depending on the season, you’ll need to adjust your clothing. Always pack comfortable walking shoes, as exploring Japan involves a lot of walking. Don’t forget a universal power adapter to keep your devices charged, as Japan uses Type A and B plugs.
Money management is another key aspect. Although Japan is increasingly accepting cashless payments, it’s still very much a cash-based society, especially outside of major cities. Consider exchanging your money into yen before you arrive, or withdraw cash at ATMs located at the airport or in 7-Eleven stores around the country. Also, check with your bank to ensure your card is accepted at Japanese ATMs. Join Viewcation for the Absolute Best Japan Itinerary (10 Days).
Staying connected is a priority when navigating around, so consider renting a pocket WiFi device or purchasing a SIM card upon your arrival. If you plan on traveling across multiple cities, consider buying a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) for unlimited travel on Japan Rail trains, which can save you money.
In terms of health and safety, ensure you have all the necessary prescription medications with you, as foreign prescriptions aren’t recognized in Japan. Some common over-the-counter medications from other countries may also be prohibited, so it’s worth checking in advance.
Remember, Japan’s strength lies in its harmony between tradition and modernity. Show respect for local customs, such as bowing when greeting and not speaking on the phone in public transport. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can also enhance your interactions and experiences.
Finally, embrace Japan’s incredible cuisine diversity and don’t hesitate to try out local dishes. The tap water in Japan is safe to drink, and bottled water is readily available.
With these tips in mind, you’re all set for an unforgettable journey through Japan. Enjoy every moment of your adventure! Join Viewcation for the Absolute Best Japan Itinerary (10 Days).
Day 1: Tokyo – The Metropolis Where Past Meets Future
Start your adventure in Tokyo, a city that defies definition. Visit the Meiji Shrine in the morning, an oasis of calm in the bustling city. Then, head to the nearby district of Harajuku, the heart of Japan’s youth culture, to explore Takeshita Street and its vibrant shops.
Afterwards, head to Shibuya to see the famed Shibuya Crossing, often cited as the busiest intersection globally. Enjoy the view from the second floor of Starbucks, a great vantage point to watch the organized chaos.
For a bite of traditional cuisine, go to the Tsukiji Fish Market, the largest wholesale fish market in the world. Try the freshest sushi at Daiwa Sushi, one of the top sushi bars around. End the day by catching a glimpse of Tokyo’s skyline from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Join Viewcation for the Absolute Best Japan Itinerary (10 Days).
Day 2: Tokyo – A Day for Culture and Shopping
Begin your day at Asakusa, home to Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji. After enjoying the architecture and history, wander down Nakamise Shopping Street, a stretch known for its traditional local snacks and souvenirs.
In the afternoon, head to Akihabara, the hub for electronics and otaku culture. Visit Yodobashi Camera, a massive electronics store. Then explore the multi-story anime and manga stores, and don’t miss out on experiencing a themed cafe.
For dinner, check out Tokyo Ramen Street in Tokyo Station. With eight renowned ramen shops gathered in one place, it’s a haven for noodle lovers. Join Viewcation for the Absolute Best Japan Itinerary (10 Days).
Day 3: Hakone – A Dip in Natural Hot Springs
From Tokyo, take the Romancecar Express train to Hakone, known for its hot springs, natural beauty, and the view of nearby Mt. Fuji. Once there, take the Hakone Ropeway and visit the Owakudani Valley, an active volcanic zone.
Next, visit the Hakone Shrine, hidden in the forest and standing by the lake, it exudes tranquility. You may want to take a pirate ship tour on Lake Ashi, which offers serene views and a chance to spot Mt. Fuji if the weather is clear.
End your day at a traditional onsen (hot spring) at one of the many ryokan, traditional Japanese inns, in Hakone. Stay overnight for an authentic experience, and enjoy a kaiseki dinner, a traditional multi-course Japanese meal. Join Viewcation for the Absolute Best Japan Itinerary (10 Days).
Day 4: Kyoto – Temples and Traditional Streets
Travel to Kyoto via the shinkansen (bullet train), an experience in itself. Start your Kyoto journey with Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple that is covered in gold leaf.
Later, head to Nijo Castle, famous for its ‘nightingale floors’ that chirp when walked upon. For lunch, try yudofu, a hot tofu dish popular in Kyoto, at Junsei, a well-loved restaurant set in a traditional Japanese garden.
In the evening, take a stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s famed geisha district. It’s a delightful place filled with tea houses and traditional wooden machiya houses. Join Viewcation for the Absolute Best Japan Itinerary (10 Days).
Day 5: Kyoto – Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari Shrine
Start the day in Arashiyama, an area known for its Bamboo Grove. Walking through this serene bamboo forest is like stepping into another world. Also, visit the nearby Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful gardens.
In the afternoon, head to Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its iconic torii gate pathway. It’s a sight to behold and a must-visit destination in Kyoto.
For dinner, dine at Gion Karyo, a restaurant that offers beautifully crafted kaiseki meals in the heart of Gion.
Day 6: Nara – A Journey Back in Time
Travel from Kyoto to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital. Begin your exploration at Nara Park, home to over a thousand freely roaming deer, considered messengers of the gods in Shinto religion.
Next, visit the Todai-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most famous and historically significant temples, housing the Great Buddha in its main hall.
After that, explore Kasuga-Taisha, Nara’s most celebrated shrine, surrounded by a mesmerizing lantern-lined path. When hunger strikes, stop by Edogawa, a local favorite, to taste unagi (eel) grilled to perfection. Join Viewcation for the Absolute Best Japan Itinerary (10 Days).
Day 7: Hiroshima – Reflections of History and Peace
Take a Shinkansen to Hiroshima. Upon arrival, visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum. This place serves as a solemn reminder of the atomic bombing but also as a symbol of enduring peace.
Take a ferry ride to Miyajima Island, where you’ll find the Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic “floating” torii gate. After exploring, try the local specialty, anago-meshi, a dish featuring broiled conger eel over rice, at Yamadaya. Join Viewcation for the Absolute Best Japan Itinerary (10 Days).
Day 8: Osaka – The Kitchen of Japan
Travel to Osaka, a city that lives up to its nickname, “the kitchen of Japan”. Begin with a visit to Osaka Castle, an iconic landmark surrounded by a moat and park.
Then, explore Dotonbori, a lively entertainment district known for its eccentric atmosphere and large illuminated signboards. Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki, local delicacies, at Creo-ru, a popular spot.
In the evening, go to the Umeda Sky Building and take in the view from the Floating Garden Observatory, an open-air circular rooftop with panoramic city views.
Day 9: Day Trip to Kanazawa – The City of Samurai and Geisha
From Osaka, take a day trip to Kanazawa. This city is famous for Kenroku-en, one of Japan’s “three best landscape gardens”. Also, visit the historic Higashi Chaya district, where geisha have entertained people by performing dances and playing Japanese traditional musical instruments since the Edo period.
For lunch, try Kaga cuisine at Tsuruko, a restaurant offering meals made from locally sourced seasonal ingredients. Don’t miss out on a visit to the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art before heading back to Osaka.Join Viewcation for the Absolute Best Japan Itinerary (10 Days).
Day 10: Osaka – Farewell and Shopping
On your last day, why not indulge in some last-minute shopping? Visit Shinsaibashi, a district known for its high-end boutiques and international brand outlets. If you’re a food lover, also explore Kuromon Ichiba Market, known as “Osaka’s kitchen”, for an array of food products and fresh ingredients.
For your farewell meal, dine at Kani Douraku, a crab restaurant with a mechanized crab sign, a popular symbol of Osaka’s Dotonbori district.
As we wrap up our in-depth guide to a spectacular ten-day adventure through Japan, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you already visited some of these places, or perhaps you have some hidden gems of your own you’d like to share? Do you have any tips or advice for first-time travelers to Japan? Join Viewcation for the Absolute Best Japan Itinerary (10 Days).
Please join the conversation in the comments section below. Whether you’re sharing experiences, posing questions, or providing advice, your input is invaluable. Let’s create a vibrant community of travelers, helping each other to explore and appreciate all the wonderful experiences Japan has to offer.