Best of Japan's Iconic Golden Route: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka
Japan is a country where ancient shrines meet high-tech streets — and for first-timers, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are the perfect trio to experience it all.
From neon nights and bamboo forests to sushi breakfasts and late-night ramen runs, this 2-week itinerary is packed with the best of Japan’s culture, food, and city life. With smart travel tips, must-see spots, and easy day trips, we’ll help you explore the Golden Route with confidence.
Ready to dive in? Let’s go!
2-Week Japan Itinerary Overview
Day | City | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
Day 1-5 | Shibuya, Shinjuku, Mt. Fuji Day Trip, Hakone Day Trip, Tokyo Disney Resort | |
Day 6-10 | Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama, Nishiki Market, Nara Park Day Trip | |
Day 11-14 | Dotonbori, Universal Studios Japan |
Days 1–6: Tokyo
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo – Shibuya & Shinjuku
Credit: @dnevozhai via Unsplash
After arriving at either Haneda or Narita Airport, head into the heart of Tokyo and get your first taste of the city's energy.
Start your adventure in Shibuya, home to the world-famous Shibuya Crossing. Grab a coffee at the second-floor Starbucks Tsutaya for a great photo angle, and don’t forget to snap a picture with the Hachiko Statue nearby — a heartwarming symbol of loyalty.
Klook Tip: For the best photo angle, grab a drink at Shibuya Sky or the Starbucks Tsutaya overlooking the crossing. Just nearby, visit the Hachiko Statue, a heartwarming symbol of loyalty.
By evening, head to Shinjuku where neon lights, lively izakayas, and endless ramen joints await. Explore Omoide Yokocho for retro alleyway dining, or venture into Kabukicho if you're feeling adventurous. If you’re jet-lagged but eager, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building offers free night views from its observation deck.
💡 Klook Tip: Get the Tokyo Subway Pass (24/48/72-hr) to save on transport — it’s valid on all Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines. You can grab it on Klook and activate it at the airport or stations!
Day 2: Asakusa, Ueno & Akihabara
Visit Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest, and browse Nakamise Shopping Street for snacks and souvenirs. Next, head to Ueno Park for a museum stroll or sakura viewing (if it’s spring!).
Wrap up in Akihabara, Tokyo’s tech and anime hub. Explore arcades, browse manga megastores, or visit a maid café for a uniquely Japanese experience.
📸 Don’t Miss: The rooftop view from Magnet by Shibuya109 and the colorful shopfronts of Akihabara’s main street.
Day 3: Harajuku, Meiji Shrine & Roppongi
Kick things off in Harajuku’s Takeshita Street, where you’ll find quirky fashion, rainbow-colored treats, and hidden thrift stores. Try a crepe from Marion Crepes or a bubble tea from The Alley.
Just a short walk away is Meiji Shrine, nestled inside a serene forest — perfect for a peaceful reset.
Source: klook
Later, stroll through Omotesando, Tokyo’s "Champs-Élysées," lined with modern architecture and high-end stores. Evening calls for big views — head to Shibuya Sky or the Roppongi Hills observation deck for sweeping sunset shots.
⭐ Klook Tip: Save More with the Klook Pass Greater Tokyo
With so much to see and do in Tokyo, the Klook Pass Greater Tokyo is a no-brainer for first-time visitors.
This all-in-one pass gives you access to up to seven of the city’s top attractions, including Tokyo Skytree, teamLab Planets, Sanrio Puroland, and more. It’s an easy way to pack your days with iconic experiences — while saving money and skipping queues along the way.
🏔️ Day 4: Mt. Fuji Day Trip
Credit: @aqaliliazizan
No trip to Japan is complete without seeing Mount Fuji — the country’s most beloved natural landmark.
Standing at 3,776 meters, it's not just Japan’s tallest mountain, but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of spiritual and cultural significance. It's been featured in centuries of art, from woodblock prints to anime scenes.
For first-timers, the most scenic and accessible base is Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchiko) in the Fuji Five Lakes region. The lake provides postcard-worthy reflections of the mountain, especially during clear mornings.
For an even more dramatic view, climb to the Chureito Pagoda, a five-story pagoda perched on a hillside, offering a spectacular frame of Mount Fuji, particularly during cherry blossom or autumn foliage seasons.
While it's possible to take public transport, booking a guided tour on Klook is highly recommended — it often includes direct bus rides, a stop at the pagoda, and sometimes even a seasonal fruit-picking or traditional lunch experience. You’ll save time, skip navigation stress, and make the most of your day in the Fuji area.
🎢 Optional Add-On: Fuji-Q Highland for Thrill-Seekers
If you're a fan of theme parks and adrenaline-pumping rides, consider adding a stop at Fuji-Q Highland — just 10 minutes from Kawaguchiko Station. This amusement park is famous for having some of the tallest, fastest, and steepest roller coasters in the world.
Top attractions include:
- Eejanaika – a 4D coaster that spins while you ride (world record holder for most inversions)
- Fujiyama – once the world’s tallest coaster, still offers incredible Mt. Fuji views
- Takabisha – features a 121° drop, one of the steepest in the world
Nguồn ảnh: Japan Guide
The park is set against the backdrop of Mt. Fuji, so even while screaming on a roller coaster, you’re getting epic views. It’s a totally different — but equally memorable — way to experience the Fuji region.
♨️ Day 5: Hakone Day Trip
Credit: Odakyu Electric Railway Co.,Ltd
After a day with Fuji, shift gears with a relaxing trip to Hakone, a peaceful resort town in the mountains, known for its natural hot springs (onsen), scenic lake cruises, and cultural attractions.
Hakone is a great mix of nature, relaxation, and quirky sights — perfect for unwinding and soaking in Japan’s slower side!
Credit: Odakyu Hakone
Start with a ride on the Hakone Ropeway, which gives you panoramic views of the Ōwakudani Valley, an active volcanic zone where you can spot sulphur vents and even eat the famous black eggs (Kuro-tamago) — eggs boiled in the hot spring waters, said to add 7 years to your life!
⭐ Klook Tip: Explore Hakone with ease via the Digital Hakone Freepass
This all-in-one pass gives you unlimited access to local trains, buses, ropeways, cable cars, and even the iconic pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi — all in one ticket!
You can use the pass to hop between top sights like the Hakone Open-Air Museum, Ōwakudani volcanic valley, and Hakone Shrine, while enjoying stress-free transport between them. Plus, booking it digitally on Klook means no queuing at ticket counters — just activate it from your phone and go.
Hakone-jinja Shrine features a Torii gate in the waters of Lake Ashi
Then, hop aboard a pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi, a volcanic crater lake with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Keep your camera ready when you pass the stunning Hakone Shrine torii gate, which seems to float serenely on the lake’s edge — it’s a popular photo spot.
Wrap up the day at the Hakone Open-Air Museum, a unique blend of nature and modern art, featuring over 100 sculptures in beautifully landscaped gardens, including works by Henry Moore and Picasso. Kids will love the whimsical installations like the colourful glass tower climb.
🎡 Day 6: Odaiba or Tokyo Disneyland
It’s your last full day in Tokyo, and you’ve got two awesome ways to spend it — depending on whether you’re a theme park lover or more into cool city attractions with waterfront views. Either way, it’s all about relaxing and having fun before you hop on the shinkansen to Kyoto.
Option 1: Odaiba – Chill by the Bay with Robots & Art
Odaiba is a futuristic entertainment island in Tokyo Bay — and it’s perfect if you want to keep things easy and flexible.
Delight in the sight of the Floating Flower Garden in this one-of-a-kind art gallery at teamLab Planets.
Start with a visit to teamLab Planets, an immersive digital art museum where you’ll walk barefoot through light tunnels, mirrored water rooms, and floating flower fields. It’s one of Tokyo’s most Instagrammable spots — and honestly, even better in real life.
![[usxanz] teamlabs planets vs borderless](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/fl_lossy.progressive,q_85/c_fill,w_550,h_356/v1732799082/f5lb7plailqqe4dokxlo.jpg)
After that, you can shop and snack your way through places like DiverCity (home of the giant Gundam statue) or Aqua City Odaiba, which has a rooftop deck with epic views of the Rainbow Bridge.
Option 2: Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea – Full-On Fantasy Mode
If you love theme parks, then this is your day to go all in. Tokyo Disneyland is great for families and Disney classics — think parades, popcorn buckets, and castle selfies. But if you’re after something unique, go for Tokyo DisneySea, which is only in Japan and has a more adventurous, grown-up vibe.
Photo Credit: Sarah Castañeda on Unsplash
There are themed ports, Venetian gondola rides, epic stage shows, and rides like Journey to the Center of the Earth or Tower of Terror. The park design alone is stunning — and you’ll find way fewer crowds if you visit on a weekday.
Tokyo Essentials: Transport & Activity Passes
Pass | What It Covers | Best For |
|---|---|---|
Unlimited rides on Tokyo Metro + Toei Subway lines | Exploring central Tokyo (Shinjuku, Asakusa, Harajuku, etc.) | |
Prepaid IC card usable on trains, buses, vending machines, convenience stores | Tap-and-go convenience across all cities (works in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka) | |
Unlimited travel on JR East lines, incl. shinkansen & limited express trains within validity area | Great for 3-day side trips from Tokyo | |
Save up to 48% with bundled entry to top attractions (e.g. teamLab Borderless, Tokyo Skytree) + transport passes | Sightseeing + attraction access in one pass | |
Choose from train (Narita Express), shared bus, or private car | Stress-free ride from Narita to Tokyo city | |
Options include monorail, shuttle bus, or private car | Easy access from Haneda to central Tokyo |
🚨 Which one should you get?
- 🏙 Staying mostly in Tokyo? → Get the Tokyo Subway Pass for unlimited rides.
- 🧳 Arriving via Narita or Haneda? → Pre-book an airport transfer to avoid post-flight stress.
- 🌄 Planning day trips from Tokyo (like Mt. Fuji)? → Consider adding the Tokyo Wide Pass or a Mt. Fuji tour.
- 🎢 Sightseeing a lot? → Bundle attraction tickets with the Klook Pass Greater Tokyo for extra savings.
Where to Stay in Tokyo
Best Areas for First-Timers | Top Hotel Picks |
|---|---|
Shinjuku – Great for nightlife, food, and transport links | ⭐ Shinjuku Granbell Hotel – Trendy rooftop bar, great Shinjuku location |
Asakusa – Close to temples and traditional vibes | ⭐ Asakusa Tobu Hotel – Just steps from Senso-ji Temple & Tokyo Metro |
Shibuya – Central, energetic, and youthful | ⭐ Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu – Direct access to Shibuya Station and views over the crossing |
🏯 Days 7–10: Kyoto & Nara
Day 7: Tokyo to Kyoto – Gion District
After six exciting days in Tokyo, it’s time to switch gears. Hop aboard the Shinkansen (bullet train) and zoom down to Kyoto in under 3 hours — it’s fast, comfy, and kind of iconic.
![[usxanz] tokyo to kyoto bullet train](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/fl_lossy.progressive,q_85/c_fill,w_550,h_356/v1730180273/zkdbfktdonwb6dtct8gr.jpg)
Once you arrive, you’ll feel the vibe change instantly. Kyoto is slower, more graceful, and wrapped in tradition.
After checking in, head out to explore Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district. The narrow lanes of Hanamikoji Street are lined with old wooden machiya townhouses, and the lantern-lit alleys look like they’re straight out of a movie.
You might spot a maiko (geisha-in-training) slipping quietly between teahouses — they move fast, so keep your camera ready but be respectful. For a more immersive experience, rent a kimono and walk through Gion in full traditional style.
Day 8: Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera & Higashiyama Wandering
Photo Credit: Hide_Studio on Adobe Stock
Start your day early at Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto’s most iconic sites. The path through thousands of vermilion torii gates is magical — and the earlier you go, the more peaceful it is. You don’t have to hike all the way to the top, but the higher you go, the fewer the crowds.
Next, head to Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with an incredible wooden stage that juts out over the hillside. From here, you’ll get stunning views of Kyoto, especially during cherry blossom or autumn seasons. The temple has been around since the 8th century — and no nails were used in its construction!
In the afternoon, explore the surrounding Higashiyama District, one of the most beautifully preserved areas in Kyoto. Walk down Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, where you’ll find traditional teahouses, local snack stalls, handmade crafts, and even the occasional lucky cat shop!
Day 9: Bamboo Forest Magic & Golden Reflections
Photo Credit: @simning on Instagram
Start your morning in Arashiyama, a peaceful district on the western edge of Kyoto. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is seriously dreamy — the tall, green stalks sway gently above you, and the path feels like something out of a Studio Ghibli film. Tip: get there early for that crowd-free experience!
Recharge your spirit while strolling around Tenryu-ji Temple! Image credits @hiewyick on Unsplash
Right next door is Tenryū-ji, a Zen temple with tranquil gardens and a beautiful pond. It's one of Kyoto’s five great Zen temples and a UNESCO site too. Afterward, stroll down to the Katsura River, where you can ride a traditional boat or cross the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge.
Get a good look at traditional Japanese architecture at this Osaka day tour. Credits: Klook
In the afternoon, visit Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion. It’s one of Kyoto’s most iconic temples — completely covered in gold leaf and reflecting off a perfectly still pond. It’s a jaw-dropper in any season, especially during autumn when the surrounding trees light up in red and orange.
Day 10: Nara Day Trip
Just a 45-minute train ride from Kyoto, Nara is an easy and super rewarding day trip. It was Japan’s first permanent capital and is packed with history, plus some very friendly locals — we’re talking about the deer!
Start your visit at Nara Park, where hundreds of deer roam freely. They’re considered sacred messengers of the gods, and you can buy special deer crackers (shika senbei) to feed them — but be warned, they know the game and will bow for food!
Todaiji Temple Nara
Then head to Tōdai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) — one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world at over 15 meters tall. The main hall is also the largest wooden building on Earth. It’s impressive even if you’re not into temples.
Afterward, take a slow walk to Kasuga Taisha, a peaceful shrine famous for its stone lantern-lined paths, or check out the charming old streets of Naramachi for traditional sweets and souvenirs.
Kyoto Essentials: Transport & Activity Passes
Pass | What It Covers | Best For |
|---|---|---|
Unlimited use of buses + subway in Kyoto | Temple hopping, especially to areas not covered by train | |
Unlimited rides on special rapid, rapid, and local JR West trains, including the HARUKA airport express | Day trips beyond Kyoto (Osaka, Nara, Kobe, Himeji) | |
Choose from over 70 attractions & transport options (e.g. Umeda Sky Building, Keihan Railway) | Great value for both sightseeing and getting around |
Many passes — including the Have Fun in Kansai Pass — cover attractions and transport across both Kyoto and Osaka, making them ideal for travelers who plan to base in one city and day trip to the other.
So even if you're staying in Kyoto, you can still use these passes to visit popular Osaka spots like HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel or Osaka Aquarium, and vice versa.
Where to Stay in Kyoto
Best Areas for First-Timers | Top Hotel Picks |
|---|---|
Gion/Higashiyama – Traditional, walkable, close to shrines and temples | ⭐ Hotel Granvia Kyoto – Inside Kyoto Station, ideal for travellers on the go |
Kyoto Station Area – Best for transport and easy day trips | ⭐ Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion – Elegant, peaceful, and right near historic Gion |
Downtown (Kawaramachi) – Shopping, food, and nightlife | ⭐ Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo – Convenient downtown base near Nishiki Market |
🌆 Days 11–14: Osaka
Day 11: Kyoto to Osaka
Say goodbye to Kyoto’s quiet temples and hop on a quick train to Osaka — it only takes about 30 minutes with your JR Pass or local train.
You’ll notice the vibe shift immediately: Osaka is louder, friendlier, and famous for one very important thing — eating until you drop (kuidaore, as the locals say!).
Start with a visit to Osaka Castle, a towering icon surrounded by stone walls, moats, and gardens. Inside, there’s a museum on the life of samurai leader Toyotomi Hideyoshi, but even just seeing the castle from the park is worth the trip — especially during cherry blossom season.
In the evening, dive into Dotonbori, Osaka’s most electric district. Neon signs light up the canal, and the giant Glico Running Man billboard is a must-snap. More importantly, this is where the street food magic happens.
Try local legends like takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). If you’ve still got space, try a dessert pancake or some fluffy Japanese cheesecake.
⭐ Klook Tip: Get the Osaka Amazing Pass for unlimited subway rides + free entry to top attractions like Osaka Castle and the Umeda Sky Building.
Day 12: Kuromon Market & Umeda Sky Building Sunset
Start your day at Kuromon Ichiba Market, aka “Osaka’s Kitchen.” It’s packed with seafood stalls, wagyu beef skewers, juicy melon slices, grilled scallops, and a dozen different types of tamagoyaki (sweet omelette).
In the afternoon, explore Namba or head north to Umeda for shopping at massive department stores like Hankyu or Yodobashi Camera (great for quirky souvenirs and electronics).
Then, head up to the Umeda Sky Building — a futuristic tower with a Floating Garden Observatory at the top. It’s one of the best spots to catch the sunset over Osaka’s cityscape and rivers.
Dinner tip: The building also has a retro-style basement called Takimi Koji, designed to look like an early 20th-century Osaka street, packed with ramen shops and izakayas.
Day 13: Universal Studios Japan
If you’re a theme park fan, Universal Studios Japan is a must. Home to Super Nintendo World (yes, Mario Kart IRL!), The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and adrenaline-pumping rides like Hollywood Dream, it’s a full-day experience.
Credit: Universal Studios Japan
The theming is insane, the food is fun (butterbeer, anyone?), and every area feels like a movie set.
⭐ Klook Tip: Book your USJ Studio Pass and Express Passes up to 3 months in advance — these often sell out, especially for Super Nintendo World.
Day 14: Sayonara Japan!
It’s your final day in Japan — but it’s not over just yet! Depending on your flight time, squeeze in a relaxed morning in Osaka.
Grab a coffee and one last round of takoyaki from Kuromon Ichiba Market, or do some last-minute souvenir shopping in Namba or Shin-Osaka Station. This is your chance to pick up those matcha KitKats, Ghibli keychains, or quirky 100-yen store finds you didn’t get earlier.
If you’re flying out of Kansai International Airport (KIX), you’ve got a few easy options for getting there:
- 🚆 Nankai Airport Express: Fast and budget-friendly from Namba Station (around 45 mins).
- 🚖 Private transfer: Ideal if you're carrying big luggage or traveling as a group.
Make sure to arrive at least 2–3 hours before your flight, especially if you're checking in luggage and planning to browse duty-free. Grab one last bento box or matcha latte before heading to your gate — you’ve officially completed the ultimate 2-week Japan adventure!
Osaka Essentials: Transport & Activity Passes
Pass | What It Covers | Best For |
|---|---|---|
Unlimited Osaka Metro, Bus & certain private railway lines + free entry to 40+ attractions (e.g. Osaka Castle, Umeda Sky Building) | 1–2 days of intense Osaka sightseeing | |
Kansai Railway Pass (2/3 days) | Unlimited travel on non-JR trains/buses across Kansai (Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, Himeji, Wakayama) + discounts at 350 shops & attractions | Flexible regional travel, including lesser-known routes |
Choose from over 70 attractions & transport options (e.g. Umeda Sky Building, Keihan Railway) | Great value for both sightseeing and getting around |
Where to Stay in Osaka
Best Areas for First-Timers | Top Hotel Picks |
|---|---|
Namba/Dotonbori – Food, shopping, nightlife all at your doorstep | ⭐ Cross Hotel Osaka – Stylish hotel just off Dotonbori |
Umeda – Great transport hub with upscale shops and city views | ⭐ Hotel Hankyu Respire Osaka – Central Umeda location with spacious rooms |
Shin-Osaka – Convenient for Shinkansen travellers and quick stops | ⭐ Courtyard by Marriott Shin-Osaka – Perfect for bullet train users |
Tips for Planning Your First Trip to Japan
1) Intercity Travel: JR Pass or Individual Tickets?
Route | Individual Ticket Cost (One-Way) | Round Trip Total | JR Pass Included? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
~USD $90 (¥14,000) | N/A | ✅ Yes | Shinkansen takes ~2hr 30min | |
~USD $12 (¥2,000) | N/A | ✅ Yes | Just 30 mins on JR Special Rapid Service | |
Total (Individual Tickets) | N/A | ~USD $102 one-way / ~USD $204 round trip | ❌ Not included unless you get the pass | Pay-as-you-go works if you're only making one-way or limited trips |
N/A | ~USD $250 | ✅ Unlimited travel on JR trains | Best value if you're doing Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka + return or adding day trips (like Nara or Himeji) |
So, what should you get?
✅ Get the JR Pass if you’re doing Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka within 7 days and planning at least 1–2 day trips (e.g. Nara, Himeji, or Hiroshima).
❌ Skip the JR Pass if you’re only doing one-way travel and not leaving the cities much — individual tickets may work out cheaper.
2) Stay Connected with a High-speed eSIM
Skip the SIM card hassle and stay online from the moment you land with a high-speed Japan eSIM from Klook. Starting from just USD$1.50, it’s a convenient way to stay connected without swapping physical SIMs or hunting for a shop at the airport.
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What is Klook?
Klook is Asia’s leading platform for experiences and travel services. We curate quality experiences ranging from attractions and tours to local transport and experiential stays, in over 2,700 destinations globally.
Browse our growing collection of travel activities and services in 15 languages, and complete bookings seamlessly with 40 currencies and over 40 payment methods.
Founded in 2014, we are here to inspire and enable more moments of joy for travelers anytime, anywhere. Whether it's something new in your neighborhood or an adventure abroad, with Klook you're always connected to a world of things to do and places to see.
