While most travelers may want to spend as much time in Japan as possible, not everyone can necessarily fit in a longer trip. But even with as little as 3 days and 2 nights, with a little planning, you can enjoy some of the top spots! Below are some recommended itineraries to help you make the most of a short visit.

If it’s your first time in Tokyo, this three-day itinerary hits all the right notes—balancing classic sightseeing with vibrant local experiences. From iconic spots like Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree to foodie favorites like Tsukiji Outer Market and Ameyoko Shopping Street, you’ll get a taste of Tokyo’s traditional side and trendier neighborhoods like Harajuku and Shibuya. Perfect for soaking in the energy of the city while making the most of your time—even right up to your flight home.

・Arrival: Haneda Airport or Narita Airport
・Morning: Sightseeing in Ginza
・Lunch: At Tsukiji Outer Market
・Afternoon: Sightseeing in Asakusa
・Dinner: Try local bites along Asakusa Nakamise Shopping Street

Start your first day in Tokyo with a visit to Ginza, a sleek and stylish district known for its flagship department stores and upscale boutiques. After a bit of browsing, make your way to the nearby Tsukiji Outer Market—just a 15-minute walk—for a fresh seafood lunch. This lively market is packed with quick, flavorful bites like tamagoyaki (sweet omelet) and crispy tuna menchi katsu, perfect for sampling a variety of local flavors.

After lunch, hop on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line from Tsukiji Station to Ginza, then transfer to the Ginza Line and head to Asakusa (about 30 minutes). Here, step back in time at Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most iconic temple. For an extra dose of tradition, consider renting a kimono or hopping on a rickshaw ride around the historic streets.

・Morning: Snack and stroll around Ueno Ameyoko Shopping Street
・Lunch: Around Ameyoko Shopping Street
・Afternoon: Shopping around Omotesando and Harajuku
・Dinner: In Shibuya

Begin your second day in Ueno, a lively area where tradition meets local flavor. During cherry blossom season (March–April), Ueno Park becomes one of Tokyo’s most popular spots for hanami (flower viewing), with hundreds of sakura trees creating a picture-perfect canopy. Just across the street, Ameyoko Shopping Street offers more than just street snacks—you’ll find everything from bargain fashion to candy shops. It’s a great place to soak up the energy of everyday Tokyo life.

Stick around for lunch and choose from a wide range of eateries, including ramen joints, tonkatsu spots, and even Italian and French restaurants. In the afternoon, hop on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line to Omotesando, known for its modern architecture, luxury boutiques, and stylish cafes—perfect for a mid-day tea break.

A short walk away is Harajuku, where Takeshita-dori bursts with color and pop culture charm. End your day in Shibuya, just one stop on the JR Yamanote Line, where you can snap a photo at the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing and enjoy dinner and drinks in one of the city's most iconic neighborhoods.

・Morning: Tokyo Skytree Observation Deck
・Lunch: Lunch at Tokyo Solamachi
・Afternoon: Sightseeing in Odaiba
・Dinner: Shopping and dinner at the airport

Start your final day at Tokyo Skytree. Head up to the Tembo Deck, where you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views from 350 meters above ground—on a clear day, you might even spot Mt. Fuji in the distance. For lunch, head down to Tokyo Solamachi, the shopping and dining complex at the base of the tower. You’ll find plenty of options here, from sushi and yakiniku to ramen and sweet treats.

In the afternoon, make your way to Odaiba. Take the Toei Asakusa Line from Oshiage Station to Shimbashi, then transfer to the Yurikamome Line and ride to Odaiba-Kaihinkoen Station. At Odaiba Seaside Park, enjoy the ocean breeze and sweeping views of Tokyo Tower and Rainbow Bridge.

If you have time, you might want to stop by DiverCity Tokyo Plaza or Aqua City Odaiba for a bit more shopping—or ride the Yurikamome farther to check out fun attractions like teamLab Planets or Small Worlds.

This Kansai itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience both the vibrant charm of Osaka and the timeless beauty of Kyoto. You’ll kick things off with Osaka’s bold street food and neon-lit streets, then shift to Kyoto’s serene shrines and traditional townscapes. From iconic sights like the Glico Sign and Fushimi Inari Shrine to local flavors at Nishiki Market, this three-day journey packs in just the right mix of modern excitement and cultural depth.

・Arrival Destination: Kansai International Airport
・Morning: Tsutenkaku Observation Deck
・Lunch: Kushikatsu around Tsutenkaku
・Afternoon: Take photos at Dotombori Glico sign
・Dinner: Okonomiyaki in Dotombori
・Night Fun: Tombori River Cruise

Start your first day with a trip up Tsutenkaku, a beloved local landmark in Osaka’s retro Shinsekai district. From the observation deck, you’ll get sweeping views of the city, and down in the basement, Wakuwaku Land is a fun spot to browse quirky souvenirs from famous Osaka brands like Glico and Nissin.

For lunch, don’t miss the chance to try kushikatsu—deep-fried skewers that are a local favorite. The surrounding Shinsekai area is full of casual eateries known for this crispy, satisfying dish.

In the afternoon, head over to Dotombori, where neon lights and larger-than-life signs crowd the skyline. Be sure to snap a photo in front of the iconic Glico Sign, then stick around for dinner. This is a great place to try Osaka’s signature dishes like okonomiyaki or takoyaki. To wrap up the evening, hop on a Dotombori River Cruise, which floats under nine bridges along the lively riverfront—giving you a relaxed, illuminated view of the city’s buzzing nightlife.

・Morning: Amazing views at Abeno Harukas Observation Deck
・Lunch: Lunch at Abeno Harukas
・Afternoon: Head to Kyoto and visit Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera Temple
・Dinner: Dinner at Nishiki Market

Start Day Two at Abeno Harukas, the tallest skyscraper in Osaka, standing at 300 meters. On a clear day, the views from the Harukas 300 observation deck stretch all the way to Awaji Island and the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge.

For lunch, head to Abeno Harukas Dining, which spans three floors (12 to 14) and offers 44 eateries. The 12th floor is especially fun—it’s designed like a bustling alleyway, with plenty of spots serving up Osaka-style favorites.

In the afternoon, catch the limited express Haruka line from JR Tennoji Station and head to Kyoto (about 45 minutes). Make your way to Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its endless rows of vibrant red torii gates, and then over to Kiyomizu-dera, where the main hall juts out dramatically over the hillside with sweeping city views.

When evening rolls around, stop by Nishiki Market, a lively food street packed with stalls and shops offering everything from sushi and yakitori to matcha sweets—perfect for a relaxed dinner while soaking up the local vibe.

・Morning: Stroll along Hanamikoji and Gion
・Lunch: Obanzai lunch in Gion
・Afternoon: Sightseeing at Kinkakuji Temple
・Dinner: Shopping and dinner at the airport

Begin your final day with a stroll down Hanamikoji Street in Gion, one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric neighborhoods. Lined with traditional wooden buildings, historic teahouses, and the occasional sighting of a maiko (apprentice geisha), it’s the perfect place to soak in Kyoto’s timeless charm. For lunch, try obanzai—Kyoto’s take on home-style cooking—made with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

In the afternoon, make your way to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, where shimmering gold-leaf walls reflect beautifully off the surrounding pond. To get there, take a city bus from the Gion area to Kinkakuji-michi (about 40 minutes), then walk five minutes to the temple. If you have a bit more time, consider extending your walk to Ryoan-ji Temple, just 20 minutes away and famous for its tranquil Zen rock garden.

Have some downtime before heading to the airport? Kyoto is full of cozy cafés—whether it’s a retro kissaten with a nostalgic vibe or a renovated machiya townhouse tucked along a quiet street. It’s a lovely way to reflect and relax before wrapping up your trip.

If you’re planning a 5-day, 4-night trip to Japan, you can build off the previous 3-day model plans for Tokyo and Kansai by spending more time at each destination or squeezing in a few extra spots. Or, if you’re feeling ambitious, why not visit both regions in one trip? Read on for a sample plan that does just that.

・Arrival: Kansai International Airport
・Morning: Abeno Harukas Observation Deck
・Lunch: Around Dotombori
・Afternoon: Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kiyomizu Temple
・Dinner: Kyoto-style dinner in Gion

Your trip begins in Kansai with a quick morning visit to Abeno Harukas, the tallest skyscraper in Japan, followed by a stroll through the colorful streets of Dotombori in Osaka. After grabbing lunch—perhaps kushikatsu or takoyaki—head to Kyoto in the afternoon to explore iconic sites like Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates, and Kiyomizu-dera, with its sweeping views from the hillside. In the evening, enjoy a Kyoto-style dinner in Gion, a historic district known for its traditional charm and cobblestone streets.

・Morning: Travel from Kyoto to Tokyo
・Lunch: Ekiben lunch on the Shinkansen
・Afternoon: In Tokyo, enjoy sightseeing in Ginza and Tsukiji
・Dinner: Sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market
・Evening: Night view at Tokyo Tower

On the morning of Day 2, head to Tokyo. The JR Shinkansen Nozomi from Kyoto Station gets you there in about 2 hours and 10 minutes—perfect timing for lunch on the train.

Be sure to grab an ekiben (station bento) before boarding; JR Kyoto Isetan and shops inside the station offer a wide selection of beautifully packed meals from well-known Kyoto restaurants.

Once you arrive, spend the afternoon exploring Ginza for some shopping, and take a stroll through the lively Tsukiji Outer Market, where you can sample everything from street snacks to fresh seafood. For dinner, treat yourself to local sushi, then make your way to Tokyo Tower for the evening. From Tsukiji Shijo Station, hop on the Toei Oedo Line to Akabanebashi Station—it’s only about 10 minutes. The view from the observation deck is breathtaking at night, and the glowing tower is a picture-perfect way to wrap up your day.

・Morning: Sightseeing at Tokyo Skytree and Sensoji Temple
・Lunch: Quick bite along Nakamise Shopping Street in Asakusa
・Afternoon: Shopping in Shibuya, Harajuku, and Omotesando
・Dinner: Course dinner at Roppongi Hills
・Evening: Stroll along illuminated Keyakizaka Street (late Dec–mid Mar)

Start Day Three at Tokyo Skytree, which towers even higher than Tokyo Tower and offers spectacular daytime views from its observation deck. Afterward, explore the shops and restaurants at Tokyo Solamachi, the lively complex at the base of the tower. From there, take a scenic 20-minute walk across Azuma Bridge over the Sumida River to reach Asakusa and the historic Senso-ji Temple.

Along Nakamise Shopping Street, which stretches from Kaminarimon Gate to the temple, you’ll find plenty of places to grab a quick lunch or pick up unique souvenirs and snacks.

In the afternoon, hop on the subway from Asakusa and dive into the fashion-forward neighborhoods of Shibuya, Harajuku, and Omotesando for a fun shopping spree. While you could easily spend the rest of your evening exploring these areas, if you’re up for one more stop, head to Roppongi Hills.

From late December through mid-March, Keyakizaka Street is lit up with stunning winter illuminations—an unforgettable way to end your day.

On your fourth day, there are several options for how to spend your time. Below are just a few we recommend!

Option 1: Kick Back in the Hot Springs Town of Hakone

If you’re curious to try an onsen (hot spring), a day trip to Hakone is a perfect introduction. Just hop on the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku Station and arrive at Hakone-Yumoto in about 90 minutes.

This charming hot spring town welcomes you with a lively shopping street, where you can snack on freshly made Hakone manju (steamed buns filled with sweet bean paste) and browse shops selling traditional yosegi-zaiku woodcrafts—an art form unique to the region.

Next, ride the scenic Hakone Tozan Railway to Gora, a peaceful onsen district known for its ryokan and open-air baths. While you're there, explore the Hakone Open-Air Museum, a beautifully landscaped art space filled with sculptures and works by Picasso.

If you're up for more adventure, continue on the ropeway to Owakudani, a dramatic volcanic valley where sulfurous steam rises from the earth—a striking reminder of the natural forces that make Hakone's hot springs so special.

Option 2: For Disney Fans: Tokyo Disney ResortⓇ

Tokyo Disney ResortⓇ is a must-visit destination for many travelers, with direct buses available from Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Tokyo, and Akihabara Stations. Note that park tickets are not sold on-site, so you’ll need to buy them online, at designated hotels, or at select convenience stores.

Ticket sales begin at 2 PM two months before your intended date, and last until one hour before closing time on the day of. For more details, please see the official website.

Option 3: Spring and Autumn! Spring: Nemophila at Hitachi Seaside Park / Autumn: Fall Foliage in Nikko

In spring, we recommend visiting Hitachi Seaside Park, famous for its fields of nemophila, which usually begin blooming in early April and reach peak around the middle of the month.

From Shinagawa Station, take the JR Joban Line limited express to Katsuta Station (about 1 hour and 30 minutes), then transfer to the local bus and ride to Kaihin Koen Minamiguchi bus stop (about 20 minutes).

In fall, we recommend a trip to Nikko to catch the region’s stunning autumn colors. Must-see spots include the ornate Nikko Toshogu Shrine, the winding Irohazaka Slope lined with fiery red and gold leaves, the serene Lake Chuzenji, and the dramatic Kegon Falls.

Since these sights are spread out across the mountains, it’s best to rent a car for flexibility. Keep in mind that roads can get busy during peak foliage season, so plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the views without rushing.

・Morning: Hike Mt. Takao (cable car available for easier access)
・Lunch: Japanese-style lunch on Mt. Takao
・Afternoon: Travel to the airport
・Dinner: Shopping and dinner around the airport

On your final day, consider a trip out to Mt. Takao, a scenic escape just outside of Tokyo. The mountain has a range of hiking trails that don’t require any special gear, and the summit can be reached in about an hour on foot. If you're not up for the full hike, the Mt. Takao Cable Car gets you halfway up in just six minutes—perfect for a more relaxed approach. On clear days, you might even spot Mt. Fuji from the top.

To get there, take the Keio Line from Shinjuku Station to Takaosanguchi Station (about 1 hour). If you're visiting during fall foliage season, be sure to head out early—the area is especially popular when the autumn colors are at their peak.

・Morning: Explore the Great Buddha and Hase-dera Temple in Kamakura
・Lunch: Seaside lunch with local specialties like shirasu rice bowls
・Afternoon: Walk along Komachi Street and visit Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine before traveling to the airport (direct access to Narita Airport from Kamakura; easy access to Haneda via Yokohama)
・Dinner: Shopping and dinner around the airport

Alternatively, on your final day, consider a day trip to Kamakura, a coastal town about an hour from Tokyo that offers a relaxed, historic vibe in much the same way as Kyoto. It’s a great alternative if you’re not heading west, with plenty of shrines, temples, and traditional streets to explore, all without the longer travel time.

Start your visit at the Great Buddha of Kamakura (Daibutsu), an iconic 11-meter-tall bronze statue set against the backdrop of the mountains. Just a short walk away is Hase-dera Temple, where you’ll find peaceful gardens and ocean views. For lunch, stop by one of the many seaside cafes or try a local specialty like shirasu (whitebait) over rice.

In the afternoon, stroll along Komachi Street, a charming shopping street filled with traditional snacks, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. Then visit Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrine. With its compact layout, walkable sights, and a calm pace, Kamakura is a lovely way to experience old Japan without leaving the Tokyo area.

For those planning a longer stay, here’s a recommended plan that makes the most of a two-week stay.

・Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi (Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures)
・Hakone (Kanagawa Prefecture)
・Nikko (Tochigi Prefecture)
・Karuizawa (Nagano Prefecture)

If you're staying in Japan for around two weeks, consider using Tokyo as your base for shopping and local sightseeing, while taking short overnight trips to nearby regions like Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, Hakone, Nikko, and Karuizawa. Each destination offers a unique experience, from scenic nature and relaxing hot springs to rich history and seasonal beauty. To make the most of your time, take advantage of Japan’s convenient express buses, limited express trains, and the fast, comfortable Shinkansen bullet train.

・Kobe (Hyogo Prefecture)
・Arima Onsen (Hyogo Prefecture)
・Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo Prefecture)
・Amanohashidate (Kyoto Prefecture)
・Nara City (Nara Prefecture)

Just as with the Tokyo plan, using Osaka or Kyoto as your base gives you access to great short trips to places like Kobe, Arima Onsen, Kinosaki Onsen, Amanohashidate, and Nara. Each of these spots can be visited as a 2-day, 1-night getaway.

If you can spare 3 days and 2 nights, the Hokuriku region is well worth exploring. Highlights include Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa—one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens—Kaga Onsen, a classic hot spring retreat with ryokan charm, and Gokayama, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its thatched-roof farmhouses. While you can get around by train or bus, renting a car offers more flexibility, especially for reaching remote spots.

Food lovers will find plenty to enjoy, too. Be sure to try regional specialties like Echizen crab (Fukui, Nov–Mar), yellowtail shabu-shabu (Toyama, winter), and hegi soba noodles (Niigata), made with funori seaweed for a uniquely smooth texture.

・Hokkaido
・Okinawa
・Kyushu

Even if you're based in Tokyo or Kansai, long-stay travelers can easily plan a 3-night, 4-day side trip to Hokkaido, Okinawa, or Kyushu.

These regions are best reached by plane, and once you arrive, renting a car makes getting around much easier—especially in rural areas.

Hokkaido is especially vast, so it’s a good idea to focus on one area, such as Sapporo for city life and snow festivals, Hakodate for bay views and historic streets, or Otaru for a charming canal town experience.

We also surveyed past travelers who visited Japan for sightseeing. What stood out to them during their trip? Read their responses for inspiration when planning your own adventure!

“I remember feeling really nervous the first time I came to Japan alone, but it’s actually perfect for solo travelers! Even when I went to cafes or restaurants by myself, the staff were kind and didn’t treat me any differently. Sometimes there were language barriers, but with a translation app, it was totally manageable.”
(Male / 20s / college student)

Japan has plenty of restaurants that welcome solo diners. And with convenience stores everywhere, you can always pick up a meal to enjoy back at your hotel.

"Japan is home to many tourist destinations known for their charming and atmospheric streetscapes. You feel a sense of piece, even just looking at the buildings. I was impressed by how much attention people pay to the little things in daily life. It made me want to stay even longer.”
(Female / 20s / college student)

Relaxing at a cafe inside a renovated old house is a great way to spend time on your trip. You can also stay in a private home to get a glimpse of daily Japanese life, or join a Zen meditation session at a temple to connect with the culture.

“I’m from Taiwan and love Harajuku fashion, so I go there to shop for trendy clothes. In Japan, I can wear what I like and not feel like I stand out too much.”
(Female / 20s / college student, Taiwan)

Harajuku-kei fashion originated in the Harajuku area and includes many unique styles, including Gothic Lolita, street fashion, and more!

“Sushi, yakiniku, ramen... there’s so much delicious food in Japan! I honestly wanted to eat five meals a day. As my return date approached, I found myself counting down how many meals I had left. There are still so many dishes I have yet to try!”
(Female / 20s / office worker)

Beyond the well-known favorites, you’ll find local specialties wherever you go: monjayaki in Tokyo, kushikatsu and okonomiyaki in Osaka, and crab or seafood rice bowls in Hokkaido.

“When I went to Hokkaido, I was amazed at how fresh and clean the air was. The blue skies and crisp air were incredibly refreshing.”
(Female / 30s / homemaker, Taiwan)

Step outside the city and you'll find nature, tranquility, and clean, delicious air. Not only is the air clean, the water tastes better too!

“I thought a week would be enough. But it wasn’t even enough to see everything in Tokyo—let alone the rest of Japan!”
(Female / 20s / university student, UK)

While you can probably check off the major tourist spots in a short trip, if you want to see Tokyo and beyond, or get a real taste of everyday life, one week simply isn’t enough!

Everyone we surveyed said the same thing: they had so much fun on their trip, they didn’t want to go back home! To make the most of your limited time in Japan, consider using sightseeing passes and booking restaurants in advance to save time.

Information in article originally published in 2019 and updated March 2025. Please see official websites for the latest updates and information.