Ultimate Japan Itineraries: Discover the Best of Japan in 7 or 14 Days

Your curated guide to the most unforgettable Japan trip

Planning a trip to Japan and wondering where to begin? Whether you’ve got one week or two, this guide will help you make the most of your time. From iconic cities like Tokyo and Kyoto to hidden gems and scenic landscapes, we’ve crafted two essential Japan itineraries - one for 7 days and one for 14 - to help you unlock the true essence of this incredible country.

If you're still in the early stages of planning, start with our Complete Japan Travel Guide to get a big-picture overview.

**7-Day Japan Itinerary: From Tokyo to Hiroshima**

This itinerary is designed for adventurous travelers who want to see the highlights of Japan beyond the route from Tokyo to Kyoto in just one week. Expect a fast pace, lots of train travel, and don’t forget to consider Kiwitaxi for extra-comfort!

Day 1: Tokyo - Arrival & Shinjuku Exploration:

Known For: Skyscrapers, vibrant nightlife, and diverse dining options. Perfect For: First-time visitors to Japan and those who enjoy urban exploration. Activities: Arrive at Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) airport. Transfer to your hotel in Shinjuku. Explore Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, enjoy dinner with a view from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, and experience the nightlife in Shinjuku.

Day 2: Hakone - Mountain Scenery & Art:

Known For: Stunning views of Mt. Fuji, hot springs, and the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Perfect For: Nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and those seeking relaxation. Travel: Take a morning train to Hakone (approx. 1.5 hours). Activities: Cruise across Lake Ashi, ride the Hakone Ropeway (with views of volcanic hot springs), and visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Stay overnight in a ryokan with onsen.

Day 3: Kyoto - Ancient Temples & Geisha District:

Known For: Historic temples, traditional gardens, and the enchanting Gion district. See our full Kyoto travel guide Travel: Take a morning Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (approx. 2.5-3 hours). Perfect For: History buffs, culture seekers, and those interested in traditional Japanese arts. Activities: Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, explore Gion (hoping to glimpse a geisha), and have dinner in Pontocho alley.

Day 4: Nara - Deer & Giant Buddha:

Known For: Nara Park, where friendly wild deer roam freely, and the giant bronze Buddha statue at Todai-ji Temple. Perfect For: Animal lovers, families, and those interested in Buddhist art and architecture. Travel: Take a short train ride from Kyoto to Nara (approx. 45 minutes). Activities: Spend time in Nara Park, feed the deer, visit Todai-ji Temple, and explore Kasuga Taisha Shrine (known for its lanterns).

Day 5: Osaka - Street Food & Dotonbori:

Known For: Its vibrant street food scene, lively nightlife, and friendly locals. Travel: Take a short train ride from Nara to Osaka (approx. 30-45 minutes). Perfect For: Foodies, nightlife enthusiasts, and those seeking a fun and energetic city experience. Activities: Explore Dotonbori (famous for its bright lights and street food), visit Osaka Castle, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Namba.

Day 6: Hiroshima - Peace Memorial & Miyajima Island:

Known For: The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. Travel: Take a morning Shinkansen from Osaka to Hiroshima (approx. 1.5 hours). Perfect For: History buffs, those interested in learning about the impact of war, and those seeking spiritual and scenic experiences. Activities: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, take a ferry to Miyajima Island, and see the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.

Day 7: Departure from Osaka:

Activities: Kiwitaxi transfer to Kansai International Airport (KIX) for your departure.

Have two weeks? This itinerary expands your journey with more stops, cultural depth, and scenic detours.

Days 1–4: Explore Tokyo’s Diverse Neighborhoods Start in the capital with a mix of culture, shopping, and energy

Read our full Tokyo Travel Guide

Don’t miss: Asakusa, Shibuya Crossing, Harajuku, Akihabara, Ginza, Odaiba, and Tsukiji Outer Market

Day 5: Fuji Five Lakes & Mt. Fuji Views Scenic views from Lake Kawaguchiko, Mt. Fuji 5th Station, Oshino Hakkai

Days 6–8: Kyoto – The Cultural Heart Walk through Fushimi Inari’s red gates, admire Kinkaku-ji, stroll Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Read the Kyoto Guide

Visit Byodo-in, Tenryu-ji Temple, and take the scenic Sagano train

Days 9–10: Osaka – Energetic, Delicious & Fun Explore Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan, the Glico Sign in Dotonbori, and Umeda Sky Building

Days 11–12: Hiroshima & Miyajima Dive into history at the Atomic Bomb Dome, then hike Mt. Misen on Miyajima Island

Days 13–14: Fukuoka – Beach Days & Foodie Nights End your journey on the coast: beaches in Itoshima, Nakasu’s food stalls, Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

Want to connect with locals? These common expressions will help:

Konnichiwa – Hello

Arigatou gozaimasu – Thank you

Sumimasen – Excuse me

Toire wa doko desu ka? – Where is the bathroom?

Eigo wa hanasemasu ka? – Do you speak English?

Kore o kudasai – I’ll take this, please

Your Japan Journey Starts Here From neon cityscapes to temple tranquility, Japan is a destination of contrast and wonder. Whether you choose the 7-day route or take your time with the 14-day deep dive, we hope these itineraries help you plan with ease and excitement.

For door-to-door comfort, book your Kiwitaxi transfer in Japan - from airport pickups to intercity rides, we’ve got your journey covered.

Safe travels - or as they say in Japan, “Itte rasshai!”