10-Day Japan Itinerary
The extended Golden Route — Tokyo, Nikko, Hakone, Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, and Osaka
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Tokyo
Stay: Shinjuku
Arrive at Narita / Haneda Airport
Take the Narita Express (N'EX) or Limousine Bus to Shinjuku. 60-90 min from Narita, 30 min from Haneda. Activate your JR Pass at the airport if you purchased one.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Free views from the 45th-floor observation deck (open until 10:30pm most nights). Shinjuku at dusk, with Mt. Fuji visible on clear days.
Welcome Dinner: Omoide Yokocho
Narrow alley packed with tiny yakitori stalls. Cold Sapporo beer and smoky chicken skewers — the quintessential Tokyo first-night experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 10 days enough for Japan?
Ten days is the ideal first trip length for Japan. It covers the full Golden Route (Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka) comfortably with time for Nikko, Nara, and Hiroshima. You will have time to slow down and truly experience each city.
What JR Pass should I get for a 10-day trip?
A 14-day JR Pass (¥70,000) gives the most flexibility. If sticking to the Golden Route, a 7-day pass covers the most expensive Shinkansen legs. Calculate your expected Shinkansen costs before purchasing.
How much does 10 days in Japan cost?
Budget: ¥150,000-200,000 (¥15,000-20,000 per day). Mid-range: ¥300,000-500,000. Luxury: ¥800,000+. These estimates exclude international flights. The JR Pass, accommodation, and meals are the three largest expenses.
What is the best 10-day Japan route for first-timers?
Tokyo (3 nights) to Nikko day trip to Hakone (1 night) to Kyoto (3 nights, with Nara day trip) to Hiroshima and Miyajima (1 night) to Osaka (1 night) is the classic sequence. It flows logically west along the Shinkansen line.
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