Japan 8-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX) from Kuala Lumpur.

Proceed through immigration and customs.

Follow signs for trains to the city. Consider purchasing an ICOCA card for convenient public transport.

Travel to Osaka Airbnb & Check-in

Take the Nankai Rapid Express or JR Haruka train to central Osaka, then local transport to your Airbnb.

Drop off luggage if early check-in isn't available.

Lunch in Namba

Enjoy your first authentic Japanese lunch in the bustling Namba district.

Try local Osaka specialties like Okonomiyaki or Kushikatsu.

Explore Dotonbori

Wander through the iconic Dotonbori canal area, famous for its vibrant neon lights, oversized signboards, and street food. Don't miss the Glico Running Man sign.

Great for people-watching and soaking in Osaka's lively atmosphere.

Osaka Sake Tasting & Takoyaki Cooking Experience

Enjoy cooking Osaka's best street food, Takoyaki, with a local guide's secret recipe.

The experience also includes sake tasting.

Product Code: 427198P1. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Osaka/Osaka-Takoyaki-Experience-with-Sake-in-Namba/d333-427198P1?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Osaka Early Morning Tour

Start your day discovering Osaka’s top highlights like Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori with a friendly English-speaking guide, before the crowds arrive.

Product Code: 427786P5. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Osaka/Osaka-Top-Highlights-with-English-Speaking-Guide/d333-427786P5?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Lunch in Shinsekai

Grab a casual lunch in the retro-themed Shinsekai district, perhaps some more Kushikatsu.

Tsutenkaku Tower

Visit the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower in Shinsekai for panoramic views of Osaka and a taste of old Osaka charm.

Relax or Shopping

Enjoy some free time for relaxation or souvenir shopping in areas like Namba or Umeda.

Osaka Night Walk: Discover Umeda Food and Pub

Join a pub adventure to discover unique izakayas through retro arcades and underground alleys in Umeda, trying iconic Osaka foods and enjoying local izakaya culture.

Product Code: 21490P160. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Osaka/Discover-Osaka-Food-and-Pub-Walk-Tour/d333-21490P160?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Check Out from Osaka Airbnb & Travel to Kyoto

Check out from your Osaka accommodation by 11:00 AM.

Make your way to Shin-Osaka Station to catch a train to Kyoto.

Check In to Kyoto Accommodation

Arrive at Kyoto Station, then take local transport to your Airbnb.

Check in and drop off your luggage.

Lunch in Higashiyama

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch in the charming Higashiyama district, close to your accommodation.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Higashiyama Walk

Visit the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its wooden stage offering panoramic views.

Afterwards, stroll through the traditional streets of Higashiyama, browsing shops and enjoying the historical ambiance.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking up the slopes and cobblestone streets.

Dinner in Gion

Experience traditional Japanese dining in Gion, Kyoto's famous geisha district.

Explore the charming streets after dinner.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Visit the spectacular Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates winding up Mount Inari.

Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful ascent.

Lunch near Kyoto Station

Have lunch near Kyoto Station or explore the food options within the station building.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore the serene and picturesque Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

Afterwards, visit the stunning Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful Zen gardens.

Dinner in Central Kyoto

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in central Kyoto, perhaps trying some Kyo-ryori (Kyoto cuisine).

Check Out from Kyoto Airbnb & Travel to Kyoto Station

Check out from your Kyoto accommodation by 10:00 AM.

Make your way to Kyoto Station for your Shinkansen to Tokyo.

Shinkansen to Tokyo

Board the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Kyoto Station to Tokyo Station.

Enjoy the scenic journey.

User has a Shinkansen ticket. Booked tickets in advance are recommended for specific times and seats.

Lunch on Shinkansen or at Tokyo Station

Grab a bento box (ekiben) at Kyoto Station to enjoy on the Shinkansen, or find lunch options upon arrival at Tokyo Station.

Travel to Tokyo Airbnb & Check-in

From Tokyo Station, take local transport (Yamanote Line or subway) to your accommodation area in Takanawa.

Check in and settle down.

Explore Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko

Immerse yourself in the bustling energy of Shibuya, famous for its iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing and the statue of Hachiko.

Visit Shibuya Sky for an amazing panoramic view of the crossing and city (optional, booking recommended).

Dinner in Shibuya

Enjoy dinner at one of Shibuya's countless restaurants, offering everything from casual eateries to trendy dining spots.

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko

Experience the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing, one of the world's busiest intersections.

See the famous Hachiko dog statue nearby, a symbol of loyalty.

Best viewed from the Starbucks window in Tsutaya building or from the Magnet by Shibuya 109 rooftop.

Meiji Jingu Shrine & Yoyogi Park

Visit the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.

Stroll through the surrounding Yoyogi Park, a large urban park.

Walk through the giant torii gate and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Entrance to the shrine grounds is free.

Lunch in Harajuku

Grab lunch in the vibrant Harajuku area, known for its trendy cafes and diverse food options.

Try some street food or a casual restaurant.

Many options available, from crepe stands to themed cafes. Budget-friendly.

Harajuku Takeshita Street

Explore Takeshita Street, the heart of Harajuku's youth culture, fashion boutiques, and quirky shops.

Perfect for unique souvenirs and people-watching.

Can get very crowded, especially on weekends.

Dinner in Shinjuku

Dine in Shinjuku, a district known for its skyscrapers, entertainment, and a wide array of dining options from casual izakayas to upscale restaurants.

Explore the area around Shinjuku Station for countless choices.

Shinjuku Golden Gai

Experience the unique atmosphere of Golden Gai, a tiny area packed with narrow alleys and over 200 small, atmospheric bars.

A great spot for a drink.

Some bars cater to regulars; look for those with 'Welcome' signs or English menus. Cover charges may apply.

Tsukiji Outer Market

Explore Tsukiji Outer Market, a bustling area with vendors selling fresh seafood, produce, and kitchenware.

Enjoy a fresh sushi breakfast or other street food.

The inner wholesale market moved to Toyosu, but the outer market remains a fantastic culinary destination. Go early for the freshest experience.

Imperial Palace East Garden

Visit the Imperial Palace East Garden, the former site of Edo Castle's innermost circles.

It offers beautiful Japanese gardens and historical ruins.

The gardens are open to the public and free to enter. The Imperial Palace itself is not open to the public except for certain dates.

Oishii Food Tours

Embark on an award-winning Tokyo food tour.

Discover hidden culinary gems and taste local delicacies beyond the guidebooks with an expert guide.

The #1 Tokyo Night Food Tour on Tripadvisor. This is a great way to experience authentic Japanese cuisine.

Ginza Shopping & Stroll

Explore Ginza, Tokyo's premier luxury shopping and entertainment district.

Admire the upscale department stores, boutiques, and impressive architecture.

On weekends, Chuo Dori (main street) is often closed to traffic, creating a pedestrian paradise.

Dinner in Ginza

Enjoy a sophisticated dinner in Ginza, offering a wide range of culinary experiences from traditional Japanese to international fine dining.

Expect higher prices in this upscale district.

Tokyo Skytree Observation Deck

Ascend the Tokyo Skytree for breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo's sprawling cityscape at night. Experience the city lights from above.

Book tickets in advance to save time. Evening views are spectacular.

Checkout from Airbnb

Check out from your Airbnb accommodation in Takanawa, ensuring all belongings are packed.

Confirm checkout procedures with your host in advance.

Travel to Narita Airport

Travel from Takanawa to Narita International Airport (NRT).

Options include Narita Express (N'EX) from major stations or airport limousine bus.

Allow ample time for travel, especially during peak hours. Narita Express is typically 60-90 minutes from Tokyo Station, plus travel to the station.

Airport Check-in & Security

Complete check-in for your flight and proceed through security at Narita Airport.

Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before an international flight. Confirm your terminal.