11-Day Japan Adventure: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka Highlights
Experience Japan in 11 days! Explore Tokyo’s vibrant streets, Kyoto’s historic temples, and Osaka’s lively food scene. Plan your unforgettable trip now!
ASIAEXPENSIVERELAX
About
During an exciting 11-day trip to Japan, travelers can experience the vibrant culture and stunning sights across major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Starting in Tokyo, visitors can explore bustling streets filled with shops, delicious street food, and iconic landmarks like the Tokyo Tower. As the journey moves to Kyoto, the rich history comes alive with beautiful temples, traditional tea houses, and serene gardens. The Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari Shrine are must-see sites that showcase Japan's architectural beauty. Then, in Osaka, the neon lights and energy of Dotonbori add a modern twist, offering tasty local dishes like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. This trip promises a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, making it an unforgettable adventure filled with unique experiences.
Trip Summary
PICKY
DAY 1 - Flight & Arrival
Arrive in Tokyo Int. Airport, transfer to budget guesthouse. Explore the city center and local market
DAY 2 - Tokyo Highlights
Explore Akasusa, and visit Senso-Ji temple
DAY 3 - Tokyo Highlights 2
Visit Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya Crossing. Evening at Odaiba
DAY 4 - Kyoto Bound
Take the Shinkansen to Kyoto, stroll through Gion, and visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple
DAY 5 - Temples & Gardens
Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the Golden Pavilion
DAY 6 - Nara Day Trip
Visit Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park, and the famous deer
DAY 7 - Osaka Experience
Travel to Osaka, explore Dotonbori, and try takoyaki and okonomiyaki
DAY 8 - Mount Koya & Nature
Head to Mount Koya, stay overnight in a Buddhist temple for a unique spiritual experience
DAY 9 - Kyoto Again
Return to Kyoto and back to Tokyo
DAY 10 - Tokyo and Back
Enjoy Tokyo for the last time, and go back
DAY 11 - Flight
Based on your schedule, Enjoy (...) your flight back home
$900
$1270
More Fancy
Budget Buddies
Price Summary
Per person, based on a 2 persons' trip - flights excluded
Accomodation
Around $35-50 per night
Food
Depending on your stomach
Transfers
Mainly trains
Experiences
Parks, Tours, and other attractions
$280-400
$160-240
$300-350
$160-280
How are prices calculated?
GALLERY
When To Go
January to March
This period marks the heart of winter in Japan, particularly in Tokyo and Kyoto, characterized by cold, dry conditions and clear skies. Daytime temperatures in Tokyo range from 5°C to 12°C, while Kyoto experiences slightly cooler averages of 4°C to 10°C. Snow is rare in Tokyo but more frequent in Kyoto, especially in the northern outskirts. Rainfall is minimal, making this season ideal for exploring urban attractions, temples, and gardens without the crowds. Clear views of Mount Fuji are a bonus for travelers visiting nearby areas. However, evenings can be brisk, and layering is essential for comfort.
April to May
Spring ushers in one of Japan’s most celebrated seasons, marked by the blooming of cherry blossoms. Temperatures in Tokyo and Kyoto gradually rise to a comfortable range of 12°C to 23°C, with minimal rainfall and moderate humidity. April is cooler, offering crisp mornings, while May sees the onset of warmer afternoons. The clear, temperate weather makes this period perfect for hanami (flower viewing) in parks and along riverbanks. Kyoto’s gardens and temples are particularly stunning, as the blossoms create picture-perfect backdrops. Tourist activity peaks, so advance bookings are recommended for popular sites and accommodations.
June to Mid-July
The rainy season, or tsuyu, begins in early June and lasts until mid-July, bringing humid and wet conditions to both Tokyo and Kyoto. Daily highs hover between 24°C and 30°C, with frequent but gentle rain showers. While the lush greenery and hydrangea blooms offer scenic beauty, outdoor activities can be interrupted by the damp weather. It’s a quieter time for sightseeing, and indoor attractions such as museums, aquariums, and Kyoto’s historic teahouses become more appealing. Travelers should prepare for high humidity and consider waterproof gear for convenience.
Mid-July to August
This is summer at its peak, with hot, humid weather dominating both Tokyo and Kyoto. Daytime temperatures can soar to 35°C, with nights remaining warm at around 25°C. While the heat can be intense, summer festivals like Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri and Tokyo’s Sumida River Fireworks attract crowds with their vibrant atmosphere. Beaches near Tokyo, such as Kamakura, and mountain getaways around Kyoto, like Kurama, offer relief from the urban heat. Sunscreen and hydration are essential for outdoor adventures
September to October
The transition from summer to autumn begins in September, with lingering humidity and occasional typhoons. By late September, cooler, drier air arrives, signaling the start of autumn. Temperatures in Tokyo and Kyoto range from 18°C to 28°C, making this a comfortable time for outdoor activities. October is particularly stunning as autumn foliage begins to paint temple gardens and mountain trails in shades of red, orange, and gold. Kyoto’s Arashiyama and Tokyo’s parks, such as Shinjuku Gyoen, become top spots for leaf viewing. Rainfall decreases significantly by October, providing more predictable weather for exploration.
November to December
Late autumn transitions into winter, with crisp, clear days and a noticeable drop in temperatures. By December, daytime highs range from 8°C to 15°C in Tokyo and slightly cooler in Kyoto. November is still prime time for autumn foliage, particularly in Kyoto, where iconic sites like Kiyomizu-dera and Tofuku-ji shine under fiery canopies. December introduces holiday lights and festive markets in Tokyo, blending traditional charm with modern celebrations. The low humidity and sunny skies create an inviting atmosphere for city strolls and cultural immersion.
Summary Recommendations
Best Overall Period: April to May
The mild, sunny weather combined with the beauty of cherry blossoms makes this the quintessential time to visit Japan. Outdoor attractions are at their peak, offering memorable experiences amid blooming landscapes and cultural festivities.
Alternative: Late October to November
Autumn’s cooler temperatures and vivid foliage provide an enchanting backdrop for exploring historic sites and scenic trails. The balance of pleasant weather and vibrant colors makes this a top choice for travelers seeking seasonal beauty.
Avoid if Possible: June to Mid-July
The rainy season’s humidity and frequent downpours can disrupt outdoor plans, although fewer crowds and lush greenery offer some redeeming qualities. It’s best suited for those focusing on indoor attractions or off-peak experiences.
Our Proposal
DAY 1
On Arriving at Narita or Haneda Airport, take the Airport Limousine Bus or the JR Narita Express (N’EX) to reach the city center. Depending on your budget, you can opt for a simple capsule hotel in Shibuya or an affordable guesthouse in Asakusa for a more authentic experience.
FLIGHT & ARRIVAL
DAY 2
After a relaxing sleep, head out to Asakusa. The Senso-ji Temple is Tokyo's oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, located in the heart of this historical district. Afterward, explore Nakamise Street, a bustling shopping street with traditional snacks and souvenirs. For dinner, try tempura or sushi at a local restaurant.
CITYLIFE
DAY 3
Start your day with a visit to the peaceful Meiji Shrine, located in the heart of Tokyo's forested area. Afterward, head to Harajuku, the vibrant district known for its street fashion and quirky shops. Walk towards Shibuya, crossing the famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. For lunch, sample tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet) at a local eatery. In the afternoon, head to Odaiba, a futuristic district offering shopping malls, museums, and beautiful waterfront views. Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants along Tokyo Bay.
TOKYO HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 4
Catch the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto early in the morning. The journey takes about 2.5 hours. Upon arrival, check in at your guesthouse or ryokan. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the historic Gion district, famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture. Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. Dinner in Kyoto is an experience in itself—try a traditional kaiseki (multi-course meal) for an authentic taste of Kyoto’s culinary heritage.
KYOTO BOUND
Check out some Public Transport Ticket
Go and look for the bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto
DAY 5
Start your day early by visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates leading up the mountain. In the afternoon, head to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene forest with towering bamboo stalks. Explore the nearby Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Afterward, visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, surrounded by beautiful gardens. Kyoto is known for its stunning temple complexes, and these are some of the most iconic examples
TEMPLES & GARDENS
DAY 6
ake a day trip to Nara, located just 45 minutes from Kyoto by train. Visit the Todai-ji Temple, home to one of Japan’s largest bronze statues of Buddha. Wander through Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely and are considered sacred. Explore the Kofuku-ji Temple and the Nara National Museum, which showcases art from Japan's ancient capital. After a busy day, return to Kyoto for a peaceful evening.
NARA DAY TRIP
DAY 7
Travel to Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city, known for its vibrant street food scene and modern culture. Visit the famous Dotonbori area, a lively entertainment district where you can sample takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). Explore Osaka Castle and its surrounding parkland. In the evening, enjoy Osaka’s nightlife in the Umeda district or visit a local izakaya (Japanese pub) for an authentic experience.
OSAKA EXPERIENCE
DAY 8
Take a train and cable car to Mount Koya, one of Japan’s holiest sites, home to over 100 temples. Experience a unique overnight stay at a temple (shukubo), where you can join the monks in their morning prayers and enjoy a vegetarian Buddhist meal (shojin ryori). The peaceful surroundings and the serene atmosphere of Mount Koya make for a perfect escape from the bustling cities.
MOUNT KOYA
Check out some places to stay
We recommend a temple on Mount Koya, or a guesthouse in the nearby cities if you need to save budget
DAY 9
In the morning, go slowly back to Kyoto (train) and take time to explore the sourrandings, before leaving for Tokyo to catch your flight back home. i would suggest to move to Tokyo in the late afternoon, or whenever you think it suits more your flight plans
BACK TO KYOTO & HOME
DAY 10
Reach Tokyo and enjoy your last day before flying back home
TOKYO & BACK
DAY 11
Based on your schedule, enjoy (...) your flight back