Tokyo Best Itinerary Ideas – Big Time Holidays

Most people visiting Tokyo spend about 10 to 12 days total in Japan, which usually includes some time in Kyoto, Osaka, and Hakone as well. If you’re only headed to Tokyo, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in four to five days. Check out our favorite Tokyo itinerary ideas below.

## How Many Days Do You Need in Tokyo? A Comprehensive Guide

Planning a trip to Japan and wondering how much time to dedicate to its vibrant capital? You’re not alone! Many travelers grapple with this question, eager to experience the best of Tokyo while also exploring other fascinating destinations within Japan. This guide aims to help you determine the ideal duration for your Tokyo adventure, offering insights into popular trip lengths and potential extensions.

* Most travelers find that spending 4-5 days in Tokyo allows them to experience a good balance of the city’s highlights. This timeframe provides opportunities to explore key districts, delve into cultural experiences, and enjoy the diverse culinary scene.

* If you have 6 or more days for your Japan trip, many travelers choose to extend their journey beyond Tokyo and incorporate other incredible destinations. This allows for a more comprehensive exploration of Japan’s diverse landscape and culture.

* The most common extensions from Tokyo include visits to Kyoto, Osaka, and Hakone. These destinations offer distinct experiences, from the traditional temples and gardens of Kyoto to the vibrant street food scene of Osaka and the stunning natural beauty of Hakone.

## Recommended Itineraries for Tokyo: Tailoring Your Trip to Your Interests

To help you visualize your Tokyo adventure, here are some recommended itineraries that showcase different trip lengths and focus on various aspects of the city and surrounding regions.

### Recommended Itinerary for 5 Days: A Taste of Tokyo

This five-day itinerary provides a balanced introduction to Tokyo, blending traditional Japanese culture with the city’s modern urban lifestyle.

**(Image of Chidorigafuchi Park with caption: Check out Tokyo’s green spaces, like Chidorigafuchi Park)**

| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :——————————- | :——– |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Tokyo, Free Time | Tokyo |
| Day 2 | Sumo & Sake Tour in Tokyo | Tokyo |
| Day 3 | Day Trip to Nikko | Tokyo |
| Day 4 | Futuristic Odaiba Tour | Tokyo |
| Day 5 | Depart Tokyo | |

From experiencing the ancient traditions of sumo wrestling and sake tasting to immersing yourself in the ultra-contemporary art scene, this itinerary showcases the diverse facets of Tokyo. You’ll delve into the city’s rich history by visiting landmark shrines and learning about the Edo period at a cultural theme park. Don’t miss the chance to witness sumo wrestlers in training and experience the unique atmosphere of the Golden Gai district, known for its lively bars. Tokyo offers a sensory overload in the best way possible.

## Extended Itineraries: Expanding Your Japanese Adventure

For those with more time, consider extending your trip to include other incredible destinations in Japan. These extended itineraries offer a deeper dive into the country’s culture, history, and natural beauty.

### 9-Day Itinerary Including Kyoto, Osaka & Hakone: A Journey Through Tradition and Nature

**(Image of Tokyo with caption: Explore the modern and traditional sides of Tokyo)**

| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :————————————————————————- | :——– |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Tokyo, Explore | Tokyo |
| Day 2 | Modernity & Tradition Tour, Stroll Tokyo in a Kimono, Nighttime Foodie Tour | Tokyo |
| Day 3 | Day Trip to Nikko | Tokyo |
| Day 4 | Day Trip to Kamakura | Tokyo |
| Day 5 | Tokyo to Hakone, Explore | Hakone |
| Day 6 | Hakone to Kyoto, Traditional Afternoon Tea Ceremony | Kyoto |
| Day 7 | Arashiyama Bamboo Walking Tour, Kyoto Temple Afternoon Tour | Kyoto |
| Day 8 | Kyoto to Osaka, Visit the Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine | Osaka |
| Day 9 | Depart Osaka | |

This nine-day itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of Japan, combining urban adventures with natural beauty and cultural immersion. In Tokyo, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the city’s modern and traditional sides, even strolling through the streets in a kimono. A trip to Hakone allows you to cruise on Lake Ashi, revel in breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, and relax in soothing natural thermal springs. Continuing to Kyoto, you’ll discover stunning Buddhist temples, serene gardens, magnificent palaces, and historic shrines. Finally, your journey concludes in Osaka, where you can explore the city’s vibrant “foodie” districts and savor the local culinary delights.

### 9-Day Itinerary Including Kyoto & Osaka: Unveiling Japan’s Cultural Tapestry

**(Image of Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine with caption: Walk through the red gates at Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine)**

| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :—————————————- | :——– |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Tokyo, Free Afternoon | Tokyo |
| Day 2 | See Mount Fuji from Lake Ashi | Tokyo |
| Day 3 | Sumo Practice Viewing in Tokyo | Tokyo |
| Day 4 | Tokyo to Kyoto, Explore | Kyoto |
| Day 5 | Hiking at Fushimi Inari Shrine | Kyoto |
| Day 6 | Explore Arashiyama | Kyoto |
| Day 7 | Kyoto to Osaka, Sightseeing | Osaka |
| Day 8 | Suntory Yamazaki Whiskey Distillery Tour | Osaka |
| Day 9 | Depart Osaka | |

This nine-day adventure immerses you in the captivating culture of Japan, blending the historical and futuristic aspects of Tokyo with the traditional charm of Kyoto and the vibrant energy of Osaka. You’ll witness sumo wrestling practices, sample fine Japanese whiskey at the Suntory Yamazaki Distillery, and explore the serene shrines and temples of Kyoto, including the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates. This itinerary offers a deeper understanding of Japan’s cultural tapestry.

### 10-Day Itinerary Including Kyoto & Hakone: Following the Golden Route

**(Image of Hakone with caption: Stay two nights in Hakone and visit Mount Fuji on your way to Kyoto)**

This 10-day itinerary follows Japan’s famed Tokaido Highway, also known as the Golden Route, connecting the ultra-modern skyscrapers of Tokyo with the cultural heart of Kyoto. Along the way, you’ll discover the beauty of Hakone, where you can admire stunning views of Mount Fuji, unwind in rejuvenating hot springs, and explore fascinating museums. The use of a Japan Rail Pass allows for flexible day trips, enabling you to customize your adventure and explore the region at your own pace.

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