Ten to 12 days is the most popular trip length for Japan travelers interested in visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hakone, especially when also including Osaka and Hiroshima. If you’re not interested in those locations, eight to 10 days is enough for your Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hakone trip. With less time, it’s still possible to see the highlights in as few as six or seven days. For the best itineraries, including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hakone, keep reading below.
## Discover the Wonders of Tokyo, Kyoto & Hakone: A Comprehensive Guide to Planning Your Japanese Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan’s captivating landscapes and vibrant cities, exploring the iconic destinations of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hakone. Planning the perfect itinerary can be an exciting yet challenging task. How many days should you dedicate to each location to truly immerse yourself in the Japanese culture and beauty? This guide provides detailed recommendations for various trip lengths, helping you create an itinerary that suits your pace and interests.
**Determining the Ideal Trip Length**
When planning your trip to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hakone, consider the amount of time you have available. Most travelers find that **8-10 days** is the sweet spot for experiencing the highlights of these three destinations without feeling overly rushed. This timeframe allows for a balanced exploration of each city’s unique offerings, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto and the natural beauty of Hakone.
If you are short on time, it’s possible to visit Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hakone in **6 or 7 days**. However, be prepared for a fast-paced itinerary with less time for in-depth exploration and relaxation. You’ll likely need to prioritize your must-see attractions and allocate your time carefully.
For those fortunate enough to have **11 or more days**, the possibilities are endless. With extra time, you can delve deeper into the cultural nuances of each city, explore hidden gems, or venture to additional destinations in Japan. Many travelers with extended itineraries choose to add stops in Osaka, known for its vibrant street food scene, or Hiroshima, a city with a poignant history and a symbol of peace.
**Recommended Itineraries for Tokyo, Kyoto & Hakone**
To help you visualize your trip, here are several recommended itineraries, each designed for a different trip length:
### Recommended Itinerary for 8 Days
This itinerary provides a balanced introduction to the highlights of Tokyo, Hakone, and Kyoto.
**Day 1:** Arrive in Tokyo and enjoy some free time to settle in and explore your neighborhood. Tokyo awaits!
**Day 2:** Dive into the vibrant districts of Asakusa, with its iconic Senso-ji Temple, and Akihabara, the electric town known for its anime and electronics. Experience the unique energy of Tokyo.
**Day 3:** Explore the western side of Tokyo and take an Odaiba Tour, experiencing the modern architecture and entertainment options this area provides.
**Day 4:** Travel from Tokyo to Hakone, a mountain resort town renowned for its natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the quintessential Japanese experience with an onsen (hot spring), a stay in a traditional ryokan inn, and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji.
**Day 5:** Journey from Hakone to Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan. Upon arrival, visit Nishiki Market, a bustling marketplace filled with local delicacies, and explore Nijo Castle, the former residence of the Tokugawa shogunate. Kyoto beckons with its rich history.
**Day 6:** Take a day trip to Nara, famous for its friendly wild deer roaming freely in Nara Park. Interact with these gentle creatures and visit Todai-ji Temple, home to a giant bronze Buddha statue. A delightful excursion from Kyoto.
**Day 7:** Explore the enchanting Arashiyama District in Kyoto, known for its bamboo groves, serene temples, and scenic beauty. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this captivating area.
**Day 8:** Depart from Osaka, reflecting on the incredible memories created during your Japanese adventure.
This eight-day adventure allows you to explore the best of Japan’s renowned landmarks. Begin by meandering through Tokyo’s dynamic blend of parks, museums, temples, and dazzling neon-lit shopping areas. Then, retreat to Hakone, where you’ll be enveloped in the comfort of a traditional ryokan inn, indulge in a multi-course kaiseki dinner, and rejuvenate in a soothing hot spring. Continue your journey to Kyoto to discover markets, temples, and castles, and then embark on a day trip to Nara to witness the captivating deer park before your return to Kyoto for a final day of sightseeing.
### Recommended Itinerary for 9 Days
This itinerary offers a more in-depth exploration of Tokyo and allows for a day trip to Hiroshima from Kyoto.
**Day 1:** Arrive in Tokyo and enjoy some free time to explore. The adventure begins in Tokyo!
**Day 2:** Immerse yourself in a full-day Tokyo highlights tour, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Tokyo Skytree, Meiji Shrine, and the Imperial Palace East Garden. Discover the essence of Tokyo.
**Day 3:** Delve into Tokyo’s art and culture scene with a full-day tour by private car. Visit museums, art galleries, and historical sites, gaining a deeper understanding of the city’s artistic heritage.
**Day 4:** Travel from Tokyo to Hakone and embark on a Mount Fuji National Park excursion. Explore the stunning landscapes surrounding Japan’s iconic peak, enjoying panoramic views and hiking opportunities.
**Day 5:** Journey from Hakone to Kyoto and participate in a traditional geisha tea ceremony and show. Experience the elegance and artistry of these cultural icons.
**Day 6:** Embark on a full-day Kyoto highlights tour, visiting renowned temples such as Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of Kyoto.
**Day 7:** Take a full-day excursion from Kyoto to Nara and Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates. Explore the cultural and natural wonders of these destinations.
**Day 8:** Embark on a full-day excursion from Kyoto to Hiroshima, a city with a poignant history and a symbol of peace. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum to learn about the city’s past and its message of hope.
**Day 9:** Travel from Kyoto to Osaka for your departure, carrying with you memories of an incredible journey through Japan.
This nine-day itinerary commences in Tokyo, where you will partake in two full-day tours to uncover the city’s most notable landmarks and cultural attractions. Next, you’ll journey to Hakone and Mount Fuji National Park for an invigorating outdoor adventure before concluding your trip in Kyoto. Here, you’ll participate in a geisha tea ceremony, observe the deer in Nara, and take a day trip to Hiroshima to culminate your adventure.
### Recommended Itinerary for 10 Days
This itinerary focuses on the classic “Golden Route” from Tokyo to Kyoto, with a stop in Hakone.
**Day 1:** Arrive in Tokyo and begin exploring the city at your leisure. Tokyo welcomes you!
**Day 2:** Continue your exploration of Tokyo, delving deeper into its diverse neighborhoods and attractions. Discover hidden gems and local favorites.
**Day 3:** Dedicate another day to exploring Tokyo, perhaps visiting museums, gardens, or entertainment districts that pique your interest. Customize your experience to suit your preferences.
**Day 4:** Travel from Tokyo to Hakone, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
**Day 5:** Spend a full day in Hakone, exploring its stunning scenery, enjoying hot springs, and visiting art museums. Relax and rejuvenate in this mountain resort town.
**Day 6:** Journey from Hakone to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan.
**Day 7:** Explore Kyoto, visiting famous temples, gardens, and historical sites. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage.
**Day 8:** Dedicate another day to exploring Kyoto, perhaps visiting areas you missed on the previous day or revisiting your favorite spots.
**Day 9:** Travel from Kyoto back to Tokyo and enjoy some free time in the capital. Reflect on your journey and prepare for your departure.
**Day 10:** Depart from Tokyo, taking with you cherished memories of your Japanese adventure.
This 10-day itinerary follows the path of Japan’s ancient Tokaido Highway (the Golden Route) from the skyscrapers of ultra-modern Tokyo to the cultural heart of Kyoto. In between the two cities, you’ll stop in the beautiful town of Hakone to soak up Mount Fuji views, hot springs, and excellent museums. Traveling by bullet train, your flexible Japan Rail Pass offers plenty of day trips for a truly customizable adventure.
**Extended Itineraries**
For those with more time, consider these extended itineraries that include additional destinations:
### 9-Day Itinerary Including Osaka
This itinerary adds Osaka to the classic Tokyo-Hakone-Kyoto route.
**Day 1:** Arrive in Tokyo and begin your exploration of the city.
**Day 2:** Experience the modernity and tradition of Tokyo with a guided tour, stroll through the city in a kimono, and enjoy a nighttime foodie tour.
**Day 3:** Take a day trip to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning shrines and temples.
**Day 4:** Enjoy a day trip to Kamakura, a coastal town famous for its Great Buddha statue and numerous temples.
**Day 5:** Travel from Tokyo to Hakone and explore the natural beauty of the region.
**Day 6:** Arrive in Kyoto and participate in a traditional afternoon tea ceremony.
**Day 7:** Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and enjoy a Kyoto temple afternoon tour.
**Day 8:** Explore Osaka and visit the Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines.
**Day 9:** Depart from Osaka, concluding your journey through Japan’s cultural and natural wonders.
Explore Japan’s natural beauty and intricate rituals on this fascinating nine-day itinerary. In Tokyo, you’ll travel back in time by wandering the streets in a kimono. Head to Hakone to cruise on Lake Ashi, enjoy spectacular views of Mount Fuji, and finish the day in soothing natural thermal springs. Continue to Kyoto for Buddhist temples, gardens, palaces, and shrines, then end in Osaka to revel in the city’s dynamic “foodie” districts.
### 13-Day Itinerary Including Osaka & Hiroshima
This comprehensive itinerary includes Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka, offering a deeper exploration of Japan’s diverse regions.
**Day 1:** Arrive in Tokyo and begin your Japanese adventure.
**Day 2:** Embark on a Tokyo city tour, experiencing the contrast between the traditional and modern aspects of the metropolis.
**Day 3:** Take a day trip to Nikko, immersing yourself in its stunning natural beauty and historical significance.
**Day 4:** Enjoy a day trip to Kamakura, exploring its ancient temples and the iconic Great Buddha statue.
**Day 5:** Travel from Tokyo to Hakone and explore the picturesque landscapes of the region.
**Day 6:** Journey from Hakone to Kyoto and enjoy a hike at Fushimi Inari Shrine, admiring the thousands of vibrant red torii gates.
**Day 7:** Take a day trip to Nara and Uji, exploring Nara’s deer park and Uji’s famous tea plantations.
**Day 8:** Explore the Arashiyama district of Kyoto and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
**Day 9:** Travel from Kyoto to Hiroshima and begin exploring this historically significant city.
**Day 10:** Visit the Hiroshima Gardens, a serene oasis in the heart of the city.
**Day 11:** Take a day trip to Miyajima Island, home to the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.
**Day 12:** Travel from Hiroshima to Osaka and begin exploring the city’s vibrant culinary scene and cultural attractions.
**Day 13:** Depart from Osaka, reflecting on the incredible experiences and memories created during your 13-day journey.
See some of Japan’s most famous sites while exploring the country by bullet train on this 13-day tour. After learning about Tokyo’s history and culture, visit Nikko for a rejuvenating hike, Kamakura to explore its shrines and temples, and Hakone, where you can relax in its thermal waters. Then it’s on to Kyoto to admire the beautiful shrines of Fushimi Inari and Hiroshima to reflect on the tragic events there before ending your adventure in Osaka to look around its famous castle.
**Traveling Between Tokyo, Kyoto & Hakone**
The journey between these destinations is remarkably convenient thanks to Japan’s efficient transportation system. Kyoto is located 283 miles (445 km) from Tokyo, but the high-speed Shinkansen (bullet train) can whisk you from Tokyo to Kyoto in just over two hours. This makes it easy to combine these destinations in a single trip. While flying is an option, the overall travel time, including ground transportation to and from airports, is typically around three hours. The Shinkansen offers a faster and more scenic travel experience.
Choosing the right itinerary and transportation options will ensure a memorable and fulfilling adventure through Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hakone. Prepare to be amazed by the beauty, culture, and hospitality of Japan!
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