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Visiting Japan is a big dream of a lot of people, and it’s easy to see why. From the vibrant streets of Osaka to the iconic skyline of Tokyo, Japan offers a perfect mix of tradition and innovation that captivates every traveller. This 12-day Japan itinerary is tailored for first-time visitors, starting in the lively city of Osaka and concluding in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo.
Here is a quick summary of your 12-Day Japan itinerary
Day 1: See all the highlights of Osaka
Day 2: Day trip from Osaka to Nara
Day 3: Another day in Osaka or visit Universal Studios
Day 4: Travel to Kyoto and get a first impression of the city
Day 5: Explore all the highlights of Kyoto
Day 6: Seeing Monkeys and exploring the babmboo forest in Kyoto
Day 7: Travel to Tokyo and discover Shinjuku
Day 8: Discover Shibuya and the best views of Tokyo
Day 9: Cat temple and Teamlabs museum in Tokyo
Day 10: A magical day at the Harry Potter Studios in Tokyo
Day 11: Spend the day at DisneySea near Tokyo
Day 12: Final Day in Tokyo
Day 1: See all the highlights of Osaka
Start your day with a visit to Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. This iconic structure, originally built in the late 16th century, is a symbol of Osaka’s rich history and cultural heritage. Make your time exploring the grounds, and if you have the time, be sure to visit the Osaka Castle Museum inside. The museum provides fascinating exhibits that detail the castle’s history.
After soaking in the history, it’s time to dive into Osaka’s famous culinary scene at Dotonbori. This lively district is the epitome of Osaka’s vibrant street food culture. As you stroll along the canal, you’ll be greeted by the iconic neon signs. You can find a lot of shops here as well, and it is just a fun and busy area to spend some time at in general.
A short walk away from Dotonbori you can find the Shinsaibashi department store, in which you can also find a Pokémon Cafe! This is a fun and unique experience for all Pokémon fans. Enjoy some Pokémon shaped food and drinks and watch a live performance of Pikachu (or one of his friends). A reservation needs to be made beforehand. You can book up to a month in advance, but often you have more luck making a reservation the day before you want to go.
In the evening, head to the Harukas 300 observation deck for some incredible views of Osaka! You can get the tickets at the building, but can also purchase them online before. Just to be sure! If you come here just before sunset, you get to see Osaka by day and night, and it’s great!
Day 2: Day trip from Osaka to Nara
You have probably heard of Nara before, as this city is famous worldwide for its bowing deer. And while the deer in Nara are certainly the highlight of the city, there is also a lot more to see in Nara. This makes it the perfect day trip destination from Osaka, as it is also only 45 minutes away by train.
Once you arrive in Nara, make your way towards the Nara Deer Park. You can purchase deer crackers anywhere throughout the park and feed and interact with the friendly roaming deer. Within the Nara park, you can also find Kofuku-ji temple, and Isuien Garden.
Another highlight of Nara is the impressive Todaji Temple. In this wooden temple, you can find the Great Buddha Hall, where you can see the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha, which is really impressive!
And there are also a lot of other temples in Nara, as well a famous shop to watch a live demonstration of traditional mochi pounding and taste those freshly made mochi.
Day 3: Another day in Osaka or visit Universal Studios
If you decide to spend the day at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, you’re in for an action-packed adventure. The theme park is home to exciting attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, and various thrilling rides based on popular movies. It’s a full-day experience filled with fun, especially if you’re a fan of themed entertainment.
If you opt for a more laid-back day exploring Osaka, start with a visit to Namba Yasaka Shrine. This unique shrine is famous for its massive lion-head-shaped stage, which is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. It’s a striking and photogenic spot that offers a fascinating contrast to the surrounding urban environment.
Next, indulge in some fun by hunting down Gachapon (capsule toy) machines. These machines, found in arcades, shopping centers, and train stations throughout Osaka, offer a wide variety of collectible toys and trinkets, making it an enjoyable and nostalgic activity.
Afterward, treat yourself to a slice of Osaka’s famous Jiggly Cheesecake at a local shop like Rikuro’s. Known for its light, fluffy texture and slight wobble, this cheesecake is a must-try while you’re in the city.
To round out your day, you could explore the nearby Amerikamura (America Village), a vibrant district known for its quirky shops, street art, and trendy fashion boutiques. It’s a great place to soak up Osaka’s youthful energy and discover unique souvenirs. Alternatively, visit Kuromon Ichiba Market for a food lover’s experience, where you can sample fresh seafood, street food, and local delicacies while mingling with locals.
Day 4: Travel to Kyoto and get a first impression of the city
Today it is time to travel from Osaka to Kyoto. There is no need to book any train tickets in advance if you are just travelling with the standard train. The trains run very frequently, and you can just use your Suica card to check in and out of public transportation. And it only takes around 50 minutes to travel between the two cities.
Once you are there, get a first impression of the city and just walk around a bit. The city is beautiful and there are so many temples and shrines everywhere throughout the city. If you want to get some Pokémon shopping done, you can also check out the Pokémon centre in Kyoto. That one can be a lot less busy than the one in Osaka (at least it was when I visited).
Day 5: Explore all the highlights of Kyoto
Start your day with an early visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, and one of the best things to do in Kyoto. Famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that wind up the sacred Mount Inari, this shrine offers a truly mesmerizing experience. Take your time exploring the trails, and if you’re up for it, hike to the top for panoramic views of Kyoto. The early morning is the best time to visit, as it’s less crowded and the light is perfect for photos.
Next, head to the Gion district, Kyoto’s historic geisha quarter. Stroll through the atmospheric streets lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, and soak in the old-world charm. While in Gion, stop by one of the shops that offer personalised chopsticks. These make for a unique and meaningful souvenir.
From Gion, make your way to the Nintendo Store Kyoto to explore a wide range of exclusive merchandise featuring beloved characters and games. Whether you’re a fan or shopping for a gift, it’s a must-visit for gamers and pop culture enthusiasts alike.
Afterward, if you are a fan of Matcha, indulge in some matcha souvenir shopping at one of Kyoto’s many specialty shops. You can find everything from matcha-flavored sweets to high-quality powdered tea, perfect for bringing a taste of Kyoto back home.
Finally, end your day with a visit to Yasaka Shrine, located at the eastern end of Gion. This Shinto shrine is especially beautiful in the evening when the lanterns are lit, creating a magical atmosphere. The shrine is a significant cultural site and offers a peaceful retreat as you reflect on your day exploring Kyoto’s rich heritage and modern delights.
Day 6: Seeing Monkeys and exploring the babmboo forest in Kyoto
Start your day in Arashiyama, one of Kyoto’s most scenic and charming districts. Begin with a visit to the Iwatayama Monkey Park, also known as the Monkey Forest. Located on a hill, this park is home to wild Japanese macaques. As you hike up, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Kyoto and the chance to observe these monkeys in their natural habitat. It’s a fun and unique experience that combines wildlife with a bit of adventure.
Afterward, take a stroll through the surrounding Arashiyama neighborhood, known for its traditional atmosphere and picturesque streets. You can explore small shops, grab a snack, or simply enjoy the historic charm of the area. Next, make your way to the famous Bamboo Forest (Bamboo Grove).
Wrap up your day with a visit to Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s bustling food and shopping street. Here, you can sample regional delicacies, pick up unique souvenirs, and immerse yourself in local culture. Whether you’re trying freshly made sweets or browsing handcrafted goods, Nishiki Market is a perfect way to experience the flavors and traditions of Kyoto before heading back. However, there is so much more to see and to in this city, that you can easily spend 5 days in Kyoto if you have the time.
Day 7: Travel to Tokyo and discover Shinjuku
Get some breakfast in Kyoto and then spend the early afternoon travelling to Tokyo with the Shinkansen, Japan’s famous bullet train. It only takes about 2 hours to travel between the two cities with the Shinkansen, which travels at a speed-up to 320km/h. Make sure to purchase your tickets beforehand.
Wondering where to stay in Tokyo? I would recommend staying in the Shinjuku area, as it’s well-connected to the rest of the city and there is a lot to do in the area. I stayed at APA Hotel Higashi Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower.
Once you arrived in Shinjuku, start with a visit to Shinjuku Gyeon National garden. It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a peaceful stroll after your journey. Once you’ve soaked in the tranquility of the garden, dive into the energy of Kabukicho, Tokyo’s famous entertainment and red-light district. Known for its neon lights and buzzing atmosphere, Kabukicho offers an array of unique experiences, from themed cafés to vibrant nightlife.
Exploring the narrow streets and discovering hidden gems is all part of the adventure in this lively part of Shinjuku.
Day 8: Discover Shibuya and the best views of Tokyo
Start your day by exploring the vibrant district of Shibuya, one of Tokyo’s most iconic neighbourhoods. Begin with a visit to the famous Hachiko Statue, a beloved meeting spot that honors the loyal dog known for waiting at Shibuya Station every day for his owner. From there, take a stroll to Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing. Watching the organized chaos of people from all directions is an essential Tokyo experience, especially from one of the nearby cafés with a view.
Next, head to the Pokémon Center Shibuya inside the Shibuya Parco building, where you’ll find a striking Mewtwo statue encased in a futuristic display. It’s a must-visit for Pokémon fans and a great spot to pick up some unique merchandise.
Finally, as the day winds down, make your way to Shibuya Sky, the rooftop observation deck at the Shibuya Scramble Square building. Be sure to book your tickets in advance for sunset—watching the city light up as the sun sets is an incredible way to wrap up your day in Shibuya, and should be included in any 12-day Japan itinerary.
Day 9: Cat temple and Teamlabs museum in Tokyo
Start your day with a visit to Gotokuji Temple, often referred to as the birthplace of the famous “lucky cat” or Maneki-neko. This charming temple is tucked away in a quiet neighbourhood and is known for its thousands of cat statues that make for a unique and serene experience. It’s a peaceful spot that offers a different side of Tokyo, away from the usual hustle and bustle.
Next, make your way to Ginza, Tokyo’s upscale shopping district. Ginza is a blend of luxury and style, offering everything from high-end boutiques to flagship stores like the massive Uniqlo. Spend some time exploring the elegant streets, popping into designer shops, or enjoying a coffee at one of the many chic cafés. In the evening, dive into the futuristic world of teamLab Planets.
This immersive digital art museum combines light, sound, and water in a way that’s truly unforgettable: one of the best things to do in Tokyo.
Day 10: A magical day at the Harry Potter Studios in Tokyo
Start your day with a visit to the Harry Potter Studio Tour in Tokyo, which just opened in 2023. It is one of the must-do activities in Tokyo, and should be included in any Japan itinerary. This immersive experience allows you to step into the magical world of Harry Potter, with intricately recreated sets and props from the films.
Explore iconic locations such as the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and Hogsmeade Village, and get a behind-the-scenes look at how the movies were made. The tour also features interactive experiences like wand demonstrations and special effects showcases. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to secure your spot.
Book your Harry Potter Studio Tour!
Afterward, head to Akihabara, Tokyo’s electric town known for its electronics and anime culture. Explore a range of electronics stores and anime shops, perfect for finding the latest gadgets and collectible figures. You can also find maid cafés and retro arcades here.
Day 11: Spend the day at DisneySea near Tokyo
While you can find both a DisneySea and a DisneyLand in Japan, DisneySea is unique and can only be found near Tokyo. This theme park is build around 8 themed ports that all have unique attractions and a unique vibe. And while some of the attraction can also be found in other Disney theme parks around the world (e.g. Toy Story Mania), others are unique to DisneySea.
Make sure to arrive before the park opens, as the queues can get pretty long, and avoid coming here on the weekends or public holidays if you can. Spending the day at DisneySea is a very fun experience if you are a Disney fan.
The park is catered a little less towards kids than the normal DisneyLand Park, and you can even purchase unique Disney merchandise here that can only be found at DisneySea in Japan.
Purchase your ticket for Disneysea!
Day 12: Final Day in Tokyo
For your final day in Tokyo, start with a visit to Meiji Jingu, a peaceful Shinto shrine tucked away in a forested area right in the city’s heart. The walk through the towering torii gates and along the gravel paths offers a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle.
Next, head over to Asakusa to explore the famous Senso-ji Temple. The area around the temple, especially Nakamise-dori, is perfect for grabbing traditional snacks and picking up some unique souvenirs. To wrap up your Tokyo adventure, make a stop at Don Quijote for some last-minute shopping before heading back home. Here you can purchase anything from Kit Kats to Matcha to Pokémon or Japanese skin care.
Do you want to recreate this itinerary? Here is a summary of all the accommodation I stayed at during this trip:
Osaka: APA Hotel Higashi Umeda Minami Morimachi Ekimae –
Kyoto: Hotel Vista Premio Kyoto Nagomi tei
Tokyo: APA Hotel Higashi Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower
In wrapping up your 12-day Japan itinerary, you’ve explored Tokyo’s vibrant energy, Kyoto’s historic charm, and Osaka’s dynamic culture. From serene temples to bustling streets, this 12-day adventure showcases the best of what Japan has to offer.
Have a good day
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