Japan (Osaka, Kyoto, Tokyo) 13-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrival at KIX

Arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX), clear customs, and pick up your pre-booked travel passes (e.

g., JR Pass if applicable) or purchase Nankai Rapid Express tickets to Osaka.

Ensure you have your passport and any necessary visa documents ready. Currency exchange is available at the airport.

Hotel Check-in

Travel from KIX to your hotel in Osaka.

Check in and leave your luggage.

For easy access to attractions, consider staying in Namba, Umeda, or Shinsaibashi areas. Take the Nankai Rapid Express to Namba Station.

Dotonbori Exploration

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Dotonbori, known for its dazzling neon lights, entertainment, and street food.

Take photos with the Glico Running Man sign.

This area comes alive at night! Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends. It's easily accessible by subway to Namba Station.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Explore one of Japan's most spectacular aquariums, featuring diverse marine life from the Pacific Rim, including whale sharks and manta rays.

Book tickets in advance online to avoid queues. Take the subway to Osakako Station (Chuo Line).

Lunch near Tempozan

Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants in the Tempozan Harbor Village, next to the aquarium.

Many options from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants.

Cool Japan Park Osaka

Experience this new theater facility dedicated to Japanese pop culture and entertainment, featuring various performances and events.

Check their schedule for current shows and events as content varies. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14127623-d15855498-Reviews-Cool_Japan_Park_Osaka-Chuo_Osaka_Osaka_Prefecture_Kinki.html?m=66827

Shinsaibashi Shopping

Stroll down Shinsaibashi-suji, Osaka's premier shopping arcade, offering a wide range of fashion, souvenirs, and electronics.

A great place for souvenir shopping or finding unique Japanese fashion items.

Osaka Castle

Visit the iconic Osaka Castle, a symbol of Osaka's rich history.

Explore the castle grounds, enjoy the views, and optionally visit the museum inside (reconstructed).

The castle tower offers panoramic views of the city. The museum entry fee is JPY 600 per person.

Lunch near Osaka Castle

Dine at a restaurant in the vicinity of Osaka Castle Park or move towards Umeda for more options.

Look for local eateries offering Udon or Okonomiyaki.

Umeda Sky Building

Ascend to the Floating Garden Observatory of the Umeda Sky Building for breathtaking panoramic views of Osaka city.

Best visited on a clear day for optimal views. Consider pre-booking tickets if visiting during peak season.

Dinner & Umeda Nightlife

Enjoy dinner in the bustling Umeda district.

Explore the shopping malls and entertainment options around Osaka Station.

Umeda offers a vast selection of restaurants from casual to fine dining, as well as department stores and underground shopping complexes.

Check-out from Osaka

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and check out from your Osaka hotel.

Prepare for your journey to Kyoto.

Consider sending large luggage via Takuhaibin (luggage delivery service) to your Kyoto hotel for convenience, especially if taking local trains.

Travel to Kyoto

Take a rapid train from Osaka to Kyoto.

The journey is short and scenic.

The JR Special Rapid Service from Osaka Station to Kyoto Station is the fastest and most common way, taking about 30 minutes. Covered by JR Pass if you have one.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Arrive in Kyoto, check into your hotel, and have lunch near Kyoto Station or your accommodation.

Kyoto Station offers numerous dining options, from quick bites to sit-down meals.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates winding up Mount Inari.

Wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking involved. The shrine is open 24/7 and free to enter.

Dinner in Gion

Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner in the historic Gion district, Kyoto's famous geisha quarter.

Try Kyo-ryori (Kyoto cuisine) for an authentic experience. Look for restaurants around Shijo-dori and Hanami-koji street.

Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya Kyoto

Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony while wearing a beautiful kimono in a historic machiya house.

This is a registered Tangible Cultural Property. Booking highly recommended, especially for specific time slots. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d14008820-Reviews-Kimono_Tea_Ceremony_Maikoya_Kyoto-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html?m=66827

Lunch in Gion

Enjoy a traditional Kyoto lunch in the Gion district after your tea ceremony.

Look for small cafes or traditional restaurants offering set lunches.

Kyoto Samurai Experience

An immersive journey into the world of the samurai, located in a former samurai home.

Learn about their history and culture.

This experience is highly rated. Booking in advance is recommended. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d11727379-Reviews-Kyoto_Samurai_Experience-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html?m=66827

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its wooden stage offering panoramic views of Kyoto.

Walk along the charming Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka streets leading up to the temple for traditional shops and eateries. Entrance fee: JPY 400 per person.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the towering bamboo stalks of Arashiyama, a truly iconic and peaceful experience. Take your time to enjoy the natural beauty.

Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the serenity. Walking is the best way to explore the grove.

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto's most important Zen temples, known for its beautiful garden.

The Sogenchi Teien (pond garden) is a classic example of Japanese landscape design.

Lunch in Arashiyama

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at a local restaurant in the Arashiyama area.

Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya Kyoto

Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a historic machiya house, dressed in a kimono.

A registered Tangible Cultural Property, it offers an authentic cultural immersion.

This immersive journey into Japanese culture is highly rated. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for specific time slots.

Evening Stroll in Gion

Take a leisurely walk through Kyoto's famous geisha district, Gion.

Admire the traditional wooden machiya houses and soak in the historic atmosphere.

You might spot geiko (Kyoto geisha) or maiko (apprentice geiko) on their way to engagements, particularly around Hanamikoji Street. Remember to be respectful and do not photograph them without permission.

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates winding up the sacred mountain.

Wear comfortable shoes as you can hike for an hour or two up the mountain. It's free to enter.

Lunch near Fushimi Inari

Grab a quick and delicious lunch from one of the many street food vendors or local eateries around Fushimi Inari.

Kyoto Station Building Visit

Visit the modern Kyoto Station Building, a hub of activity with shopping, dining, and impressive architecture.

It's also your departure point for Tokyo.

Take some time to admire the building's striking design and maybe pick up some last-minute souvenirs.

Travel to Tokyo by Shinkansen

Board a Shinkansen (bullet train) for a comfortable and scenic journey from Kyoto to Tokyo.

This is a crucial part of your transition.

Japan Rail Pass is often economical for this route. Otherwise, book tickets in advance. Enjoy the views of the Japanese countryside.

Dinner in Shibuya

Enjoy dinner near your hotel in Shibuya, experiencing Tokyo's vibrant dining scene.

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko

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

Take photos and observe the organized chaos, then visit the iconic Hachiko statue.

For a great view of the crossing, head to the second floor of the Starbucks across from the Hachiko exit of Shibuya Station.

Explore Shibuya Shopping

Dive into the trendy fashion and unique stores of Shibuya.

Explore department stores like Shibuya 109 or smaller boutiques.

Shibuya is a fashion hub, especially for youth culture. You'll find everything from global brands to quirky local shops.

Casual Shibuya Lunch

Enjoy a casual lunch in Shibuya, choosing from a wide variety of restaurants and cafes.

teamLab Planets TOKYO

Immerse yourself in a museum where you walk through water and become one with flowers in this large-scale art collection by teamLab.

This is an interactive, sensory experience. You will be walking barefoot through some exhibits. Book tickets online well in advance as it's very popular.

Dinner & Shinjuku Exploration

Head to Shinjuku for dinner.

Afterwards, experience the vibrant nightlife of areas like Shinjuku Golden Gai or the view from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building offers free panoramic views of the city. Golden Gai is known for its tiny, unique bars.

Imperial Palace East Garden

Visit the East Garden of the Imperial Palace, the former site of Edo Castle.

Enjoy a peaceful walk through historical grounds and beautiful gardens.

The East Garden is free to enter and offers a glimpse into Japan's imperial history. The Inner Palace itself is not open to the public.

Ginza Shopping Stroll

Explore Ginza, Tokyo's premier upscale shopping district.

Admire the luxury boutiques and department stores.

Ginza is known for its high-end fashion, exquisite dining, and modern architecture. On weekends, Chuo Dori, the main street, is often closed to traffic, becoming a pedestrian paradise.

Lunch in Ginza

Dine at one of Ginza's many excellent restaurants, from casual to fine dining.

Tokyo Japan Fishing Guide

Enjoy a unique fishing experience in Tokyo Bay with an accessible pier.

The local guides will provide all equipment and expertise.

This is a great way to experience a different side of Tokyo and enjoy some relaxation on the water. All equipment is provided.

Shinjuku Entertainment & Dinner

Explore the entertainment options in Shinjuku, perhaps visiting a themed restaurant or enjoying dinner in a lively district.

Kabukicho, Tokyo's largest entertainment district, is in Shinjuku, known for its bright lights and diverse establishments.

Asakusa Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo's oldest temple, Senso-ji.

Walk through the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and Nakamise-dori, a bustling shopping street leading to the main hall.

Nakamise-dori is perfect for souvenir shopping and trying traditional Japanese snacks. The temple grounds are always open, but the main hall is closed at night.

Traditional Asakusa Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch in the Asakusa area, known for its local eateries and historical charm.

Sumida River Cruise

Take a relaxing cruise along the Sumida River, offering scenic views of Tokyo's skyline, including the Tokyo Skytree and other landmarks.

A pleasant way to see the city from a different perspective. Different types of boats are available.

Relaxation in Ueno Park

Spend a leisurely afternoon in Ueno Park, one of Japan's first public parks.

You can visit one of its many museums, the zoo, or simply relax by Shinobazu Pond.

Ueno Park is home to the Tokyo National Museum, National Museum of Western Art, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, and Ueno Zoo. Choose according to your interest for a relaxed pace.

Farewell Dinner in Tokyo

Enjoy a special farewell dinner in Tokyo, perhaps trying a cuisine you haven't yet experienced or revisiting a favorite.

Consider a restaurant with city views, or a themed dining experience for a memorable last evening.

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko

Experience the iconic Shibuya Crossing, one of the world's busiest intersections, and take a photo with the famous Hachiko statue.

Best viewed from the second floor of Shibuya Tsutaya or Magnet by Shibuya 109.

Shopping in Shibuya

Explore the trendy shops, department stores, and boutiques in Shibuya, offering everything from fashion to electronics.

Check out Shibuya 109 for fashion, or Loft and Tokyu Hands for unique Japanese goods.

Lunch in Shibuya

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of Shibuya's many restaurants, offering a wide range of Japanese and international cuisine.

Many ramen, sushi, and casual dining options around Shibuya station.

teamLab Planets TOKYO

Immerse yourself in a museum where you walk through water and a garden where you become one with the flowers, featuring large-scale artwork spaces.

Book tickets online in advance as this experience is very popular. You will be walking barefoot through some exhibits.

Dinner & Shibuya Nightlife

Dine at a restaurant in Shibuya and experience the vibrant night scene.

Consider a themed izakaya or a restaurant with city views.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Enjoy a leisurely morning stroll through one of Tokyo's most beautiful and largest parks, featuring traditional Japanese, French, and English gardens.

Closed on Mondays, except during special events. Entrance fee applies. Picnic lunches are permitted.

Lunch in Shinjuku

Have lunch near Shinjuku Gyoen or in the main Shinjuku area, with numerous options from casual eateries to department store restaurants.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Visit the observation decks for panoramic, free views of Tokyo's sprawling cityscape.

On a clear day, Mount Fuji can be seen.

Both the North and South Observation Decks offer great views. Check opening hours as they may vary.

Explore Shinjuku & Shopping

Wander through the bustling streets of Shinjuku, exploring its vibrant entertainment district, unique stores, and perhaps a large electronics retailer.

Don't miss the neon-lit streets around Shinjuku Station for an authentic Tokyo experience. Kabukicho (entertainment district) comes alive at night.

Farewell Dinner in Tokyo

Enjoy a special farewell dinner in Tokyo.

Consider a restaurant that offers a unique culinary experience, or revisit a favorite Japanese dish.

Breakfast & Last-Minute Souvenirs

Enjoy a final Japanese breakfast and pick up any last-minute souvenirs or gifts near your hotel or at a major station.

Check-out & Travel to Shin-Osaka

Check out from your hotel and head to Tokyo Station to board the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Shin-Osaka Station.

Lunch at Shin-Osaka Station

Grab a quick lunch or ekiben (bento box for train travel) at Shin-Osaka Station before continuing your journey to the airport.

Travel to Kansai International Airport (KIX)

From Shin-Osaka Station, take the JR Haruka Express directly to Kansai International Airport (KIX) for your departure.

Airport Check-in & Departure

Complete check-in procedures, pass through security, and await your departure flight from Kansai International Airport.