One week is short, but if you plan well, you can see the absolute best of Japan. This itinerary covers Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka — the classic Golden Triangle — with zero fluff.

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo

Get settled. Explore your neighborhood. Eat at an izakaya. Sleep early.

Day 2: Classic Tokyo

• Morning: Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa)
• Afternoon: Ueno Park & Ameyoko
• Evening: Shibuya Crossing & dinner in Ebisu

Day 3: Modern Tokyo

• Morning: teamLab Planets (book ahead!)
• Afternoon: Harajuku & Meiji Shrine
• Evening: Golden Gai or Omoide Yokocho

Day 4: Tokyo to Kyoto

Take the morning Shinkansen. Check in. Walk Gion at dusk.

Day 5: Kyoto Temples

• Early: Fushimi Inari Shrine (before 7 a.m.)
• Late morning: Kiyomizu-dera
• Afternoon: Kinkaku-ji

Day 6: Arashiyama & Osaka

• Morning: Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji
• Afternoon: Train to Osaka (15 min)
• Evening: Dotonbori food crawl

Day 7: Osaka & Fly Home

• Morning: Osaka Castle
• Afternoon: Last-minute shopping
• Head to Kansai Airport

Key Tips

• Activate a 7-day JR Pass on Day 1 or 2.
• Pack light — you will be on trains daily.
• Book Kyoto hotels months in advance.