One Week in Japan Itinerary: The Best of Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka

First Timers Guide to Japan

Japan had long been at the top of our travel list, a destination that felt both personally meaningful and endlessly fascinating. For Ryan, who is half-Japanese, this trip was a chance to reconnect with his heritage and experience the culture beyond stories from family. For both of us, it was about diving into the heart of Japan, from savoring fresh seafood and world-class sushi to wandering centuries-old temples and neon-lit streets. Over the course of one unforgettable week, we explored Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, discovering how seamlessly Japan blends ancient tradition with modern life. We ate omakase at sunrise, raced through Shibuya in street karts, found peace in Kyoto’s shrines, and indulged in Osaka’s famous food scene. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, Japan offers something magical for every traveler, it’s a place where every meal, every moment, and every neighborhood tells a story worth experiencing.

Things to Know Before You Go

Best Time to Visit

Japan is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are spring (March–May) and fall (October–November). Spring brings mild weather and the iconic cherry blossoms, while fall offers crisp air and bright foliage across Kyoto and the Japanese Alps. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter offers fewer crowds and access to incredible skiing in Hokkaido or the Japanese Alps. Our trip was mid-April in the heart of Spring and cherry blossom season, but I can’t wait to come back during the fall and winter seasons.

Language

Japanese is the official language, but in major cities, you’ll find English signage and menus in most tourist areas. While many locals don’t speak fluent English, people are friendly and willing to help. A quick “arigatō” (thank you) or “sumimasen” (excuse me) goes a long way. Google Translate was our trusty friend, especially for restaurant menus.

Currency

The local currency is the Japanese Yen (¥). Credit cards are increasingly accepted, especially in cities, but cash is still king in many smaller shops, markets, and temples. ATMs at 7-Eleven and Japan Post are reliable for foreign cards.

Transportation

Getting around Japan is incredibly easy thanks to its efficient public transportation system. The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) can be a great value if you plan to visit multiple cities. It offers unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen (bullet train). Within cities, use Suica or Pasmo cards for subways and buses. Trains run on time to the minute, which is quite impressive for how many people use public transportation. Taxis are clean and reliable but more expensive; many now accept card payments or QR codes.

Connectivity

Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels and train stations, but less so on the go. Fortunately for us, Analise has T-Mobile with an international plan and Ryan has a Google-Fi, so one of us can usually get service in most places.  Power outlets are Type A (two prong) 100V which is the same as in the U.S.

Etiquette & Culture

Japan’s culture values respect and mindfulness, so small gestures matter. Always remove your shoes when entering homes and some traditional inns (ryokan) or temples. Avoid talking loudly on public transportation and keep an eye out for “priority seating” signs. Tipping isn’t customary, gratitude is shown through politeness rather than cash. Trash bins are surprisingly rare, carry a small bag for your own trash until you find one.

Food & Dining

If you love seafood, Japan is heaven on earth. From sushi and sashimi to ramen and tempura, every meal feels like a work of art. Many restaurants specialize in just one dish, which usually means it’s exceptional. Try to make reservations in advance for popular spots. Don’t miss the chance to experience a traditional omakase meal or a casual izakaya night out. Make sure to stop into a 7-Eleven, there’s so many good snack and small bites. Friendly reminder: walking and eating is generally discouraged, however it is acceptable to eat on the go in designated areas, like outside convenience stores or near a vending machine.

What to Pack

• Dress modestly — Avoid revealing outfits. Modest styles are more common, especially outside of major tourist areas.
• Keep it neat — Japanese style generally favors neat, well-put-together looks, even for casual wear.
• Wear comfortable shoes — You will often need to remove your shoes indoors, so choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off. Keep in mind, you’ll also walk a lot, so they need to be comfortable, and sneakers are very common.
• Layer up — It’s always a good idea to have layers, as weather can change throughout the day.
• Be mindful of context — When visiting temples and shrines, ensure your clothing covers your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect. 

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Tokyo — Sushi, Shibuya, and the Best of City Life

Our week in Japan began in Tokyo, a city that perfectly blends chaos and calm. A city buzzing with energy yet somehow ordered to perfection. We stayed at Mitsui Garden Hotel Jingugaien Tokyo, a quiet, design-forward spot near Shinjuku that offered easy access to all the neighborhoods we wanted to explore.

Day 1 – Harajuku & Sushi Welcome Dinner

After arriving mid-afternoon, we dropped our bags and headed straight to Harajuku, one of Tokyo’s most colorful neighborhoods. We’d seen so many photos of Takeshita Street’s quirky shops and vibrant street fashion, but being there in person felt electric — the music, the smell of crepes, the sheer energy of it all.

For dinner, we hadn’t made any plans, but walked past a sign for Sushi Mimoto, and something drew us in. On a whim, we decided to see if they had space, and to our surprise, they did. We ended up sitting at the counter alongside a few local couples and enjoyed one of the most memorable omakase experiences of our trip. The sushi was exceptional, each piece carefully crafted and impossibly fresh, but what stood out most was the kindness of the people around us. Our dining neighbors shared their sake with us and made sure we had enough to eat, a simple gesture that felt like the perfect introduction to Japanese hospitality and culture.

Day 2 – Shibuya Adventures & Street Food Finds

Our first full day started unconventionally, with ramen for breakfast. We’d read that breakfast ramen was a local secret, and it was the perfect comfort food after a long travel day. A walk through Don Quijote, Tokyo’s famous everything store, gave us sensory overload in the best way. Imagine floor after floor filled with aisles of candy, beauty products, and quirky souvenirs.

From there, we explored Shibuya, home to the world-famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing. It’s mesmerizing watching hundreds of people cross from every direction, in complete and orderly fashion. We’d booked a Street Kart Experience, something that sounded touristy but turned out to be ridiculously fun. Driving through Shibuya’s busy streets in go-karts, with locals smiling and waving as we passed, made us feel like celebrities. We both said, we would absolutely do this again!

Lunch was at Omoide Yokocho, a narrow alleyway packed with tiny izakayas and food stalls. It felt like stepping back in time, a bit smoky, crowded, and full of character. We tried yakitori and local beer before meeting up with friends who also happened to be in Tokyo at the same time. That night, we all had dinner at Gyukatsu Ichinisan, where the crispy, melt-in-your-mouth beef cutlet became an instant favorite. Afterward, we played the claw machines (a minor obsession of ours) and made an enthusiastic but unsuccessful attempt at pachinko. Still unsure how anyone actually wins!

Day 3 – Toyosu Market, TeamLab Planets & Hidden Finds

As seafood lovers, visiting Toyosu Market was a must. We arrived before sunrise, early enough to catch part of the tuna auction before heading to Sushi Dai for breakfast. We’d heard it was worth the wait, and it truly was — a front-row seat to watch the chef prepare delicate pieces of toro, uni, and tamago that melted in our mouths. We can now say we’ve eaten sushi for breakfast. It was one of the most memorable meals of the trip.

After breakfast, we visited TeamLab Planets, the immersive digital art experience we’d seen all over social media. Walking barefoot through mirrored rooms and water-filled installations felt surreal, like stepping inside a dream.

Later that afternoon, we wandered Ginza, Tokyo’s luxury shopping district, admiring the sleek architecture and popping into Nissan Crossing, where Ryan got to test a racing simulator. Feeling a bit hungry, we stopped in at Grill Bon, which was the perfect break before more exploring. You absolutely must try their katsu sandwich, it was divine — one of those places that will live rent free in the back of your mind.

After grabbing a quick bite, we headed to Kappabashi Street, also known as Kitchen Town. As home cooks, we were in heaven, rows of knives, ceramics, and cooking tools. We ended up buying our first Japanese knife here, testing out different blade styles before finding “the one.” That night’s tempura dinner was simple and comforting and the perfect close to a packed day.

Day 4 – Morning at the Shrines & Bullet Train to Kyoto

Before leaving Tokyo, we made two final stops: Meiji Jingu, a peaceful forested shrine in the middle of the city. Next up, the Imperial Palace, surrounded by gardens and wide-open paths that felt worlds away from the Tokyo bustle. We picked up bento boxes for the Shinkansen ride to Kyoto — a highlight in itself — and snagged seats on the right side of the train hoping for a glimpse of Mt. Fuji. Unsuccessful, but we still enjoyed the scenery along the way.

Next time: We hope to visit Tsukiji Outer Market, the Yayoi Kusama Museum, and Tokyo Disney.

Kyoto — The Perfect Blend of Temples, Tea and Tradition

After a few whirlwind days in Tokyo, we boarded the Shinkansen, Japan’s famously smooth bullet train. We watched the busy city skyline give way to green hills and quiet towns. Kyoto felt different the moment we arrived. The pace slowed, the air felt softer, and the city’s blend of history and nature drew us in immediately.

Day 1 – Old Town Charm & Matcha Treats

We checked into a traditional ryokan (Motonago), a first for both of us, where tatami mats, sliding shoji doors, and the sound of trickling water made it feel like time moved differently. The building itself was small and beautifully preserved — and a bit of a challenge for Ryan, who had to duck through nearly every doorway with a laugh (being six feet tall isn’t exactly ryokan-friendly).

Our stay came with access to a single private onsen, which we had to reserve in advance. It was a bit of a surprise to us at first, one group at a time could use the bath to shower and unwind, making it feel intimate and peaceful. The quiet rhythm of the place encouraged us to slow down and really appreciate every ritual, from slipping into slippers to sipping welcoming tea they had prepared for us.

After settling in, we wandered through Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district. Wooden teahouses lined the narrow streets, and we couldn’t help but peek into every lantern-lit doorway. We stopped at Maccha House for an iced matcha latte and the softest matcha tiramisu — rich, earthy, and perfectly sweet. Next, we headed toward Yasaka Shrine to watch the sun fade behind the temple gates.

After a few failed attempts at getting reservations or walking into restaurants, we ended up grabbing some snacks from a local convenience store. It was simple yet filling. We capped the night off at Bee’s Knees, a hidden speakeasy. The cocktails were intricate and beautifully presented, each one like a small work of art and the cozy atmosphere made it the perfect way to ease into Kyoto’s slower pace.

Day 2 – Torii Gates, Bamboo Forests & Gion Nights

We started the next morning early at Fushimi Inari Taisha, hoping to beat the crowds, and we did. The famous orange torii gates wound endlessly up the mountain, glowing softly in the morning light. What surprised us most was how quiet and peaceful it was at that hour. The only sounds were our footsteps and the occasional rustle of wind through the trees. It felt almost meditative, a side of Kyoto that’s easy to miss later in the day when the trails fill with visitors.

From there, we made our way to Arashiyama on Kyoto’s western edge. The bamboo forest was just as serene — tall, swaying stalks filtering the sunlight into soft green light. It was one of those places that didn’t feel real until you were standing in it. We couldn’t get into our first-choice café (Arashiyama Itsukichaya), but ended up at MUKU Arashiyama for breakfast instead. A happy accident that turned into one of the most unique and delicious meals of the trip. They specializes in serving several small dishes with each having a theme of rice and dashi stock.

We spent the afternoon exploring downtown Kyoto and the Gion district, wandering between artisan shops and quiet side streets before getting ready for dinner. That night, we had a reservation at Gion Ichiho, where we were treated to a thoughtful, beautifully paced omakase meal that highlighted Kyoto’s seasonal ingredients. Afterwards, we stopped for drinks at Kingdom, a stylish cocktail bar with a more modern vibe, the perfect contrast to Bee’s Knees the night before.

Day 3 – Temples, Markets & a Souvenir That Lasts

Our final morning began with a peaceful walk up to Kiyomizu-dera, one of Kyoto’s most iconic temples. The narrow, sloping streets leading to the temple were already waking up — shopkeepers setting out displays, the smell of sweet and savory snacks drifting through the air. From the temple’s massive wooden terrace, we looked out across Kyoto, rooftops and autumn trees stretching to the mountains beyond. A short hike higher brought us to the smaller Koyasu-no-to Pagoda, where the view back toward Kiyomizu-dera was even more striking, picture a sea of orange gates and green forest glowing in the early morning light.

Afterward, we grabbed coffee at % ARABICA Kyoto Higashiyama, one of our favorite coffee spots. Its clean, minimalist design and wide windows looking out onto the street made it the perfect place to pause and people-watch for a bit before heading back for our traditional Japanese breakfast at the ryokan — grilled salmon, miso soup, rice, and a few delicate side dishes that perfectly captured Kyoto’s calm, balanced energy.

We continued on to Kōdaiji Temple, known for its serene gardens and smaller bamboo grove. It felt noticeably quieter than Kyoto’s more famous temples, giving us the chance to slow down and take in the details — the polished wood walkways, the soft rustle of leaves, the meticulous rock gardens.

By midday, we made our way to Nishiki Market for lunch, ready to snack our way through the city’s culinary heart. The sound of sizzling skewers, the chatter of locals, and the scent of grilled seafood. We tried a little of everything, from seafood, to mochi, and finished with rice crackers covered in nori.

Before leaving Kyoto, we made one last stop at My Only Fragrance, a small boutique where you can create your own custom scent. We spent nearly an hour experimenting with different notes until we each found something that felt uniquely ours. It turned out to be one of our favorite souvenirs of the trip. A personal, lasting reminder of our time in Japan.

Onward to Osaka

By mid-afternoon, we boarded the train to Osaka, watching the temples and hills of Kyoto fade into the distance. It was hard to leave, but we both agreed that Kyoto had given us something rare, a glimpse into the heart of Japan’s traditions, wrapped in quiet beauty and unforgettable experiences.

Next time: We’d love to see Nijō Castle, To-ji Temple, Tenjuan Temple, have dinner at Monk restaurant, and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony.

Osaka – Street Food, Neon Nights & Unexpected Adventures

If Tokyo is polished and Kyoto is serene, Osaka is pure energy, it’s loud, colorful, and endlessly entertaining. It’s a city that doesn’t take itself too seriously, where neon lights flicker above canals and laughter spills from tiny izakayas on every corner. We arrived by train from Kyoto in the afternoon, checked into Mercure Tokyu Stay Osaka Namba, and set out to explore what quickly became one of our favorite neighborhoods: Dotonbori.

Day 1 – Dotonbori Nights & Wagyu Feasts

Our first night in Osaka was a blur of lights, smells, and sizzling sounds. We wandered through Dotonbori Street, taking in the famous Glico sign and the maze of takoyaki stands, ramen shops, and street food stalls. A short walk away, Kuromon Ichiba Market was winding down for the day but still offered glimpses of the city’s famous seafood displays rows of king crab legs, sea urchins, and fresh scallops.

For dinner, we splurged on melt-in-your-mouth wagyu at Wagyu IDATEN, where every bite reminded us why Osaka is called “Japan’s kitchen.” We ended the night at Bible Club Osaka, a moody speakeasy hidden behind a heavy door in Namba. The vintage glassware, jazz music, and precise cocktail-making felt like a step back in time, the perfect calm after the chaos of Dotonbori.

Day 2 – From Castles to the City’s Gritty Side

The next day began with a stop at Don Quijote, where we stocked up on Japanese snacks and souvenirs before heading to Osaka Castle. The contrast between the peaceful park surrounding the castle and the city skyline in the distance was striking. A short train ride later and we arrived at the Umeda Sky Building, where we took in panoramic views of the city stretching endlessly below us.

In the afternoon, we ventured into Shinsekai, an area with a nostalgic, retro feel that feels frozen in time. We tried the Tower Slider at Tsutenkaku Tower before joining what we thought was a food tour but turned out to be more of a deep dive into Osaka’s underbelly. The Deep Backstreet Osaka Tour led us through alleys filled with stories of the city’s gambling culture, red-light district, and traces of yakuza history. The guide was fascinating, but Ryan was less than thrilled to realize this wasn’t the food adventure he’d expected. Still, it gave us a side of Osaka we’d never have seen otherwise.

Day 3 – A Day Trip to Nara’s Gentle Giants

We spent our third day in Nara, meeting up with friends we’d first connected with in Tokyo. The deer at Nara Park were as charming (and mischievous) as everyone says, bowing for crackers and occasionally tugging at our clothes for attention. We visited Tōdai-ji Temple, home to one of Japan’s largest bronze Buddhas, and stopped by Nakatanidou to try and see the famous hand-pounded mochi in action. We didn’t make it to Harushika Sake Brewery, but it’s firmly on our list for next time.

After returning to Osaka in the late afternoon, we enjoyed dinner at Kawafuku Honten, a casual yet iconic spot known for its hearty local specialties. Following dinner, we treated ourselves to ice cream at a nearby local bakery. A sweet, simple way to close out the day and savor a bit more of Osaka’s neighborhood charm.

Back in Namba that night, we wandered through the area once more and found ourselves into a Maid Café for drinks, a uniquely Osaka experience that was quirky, memorable, and perfectly in line with the city’s playful energy.

Day 4 – Farewell to Osaka

On our final morning, we made one last stop at Namba Yasaka Jinja, known for its massive lion-head stage that’s said to swallow evil spirits and bring good luck. Breakfast at Cafe Mog Namba was a must for Ryan, who had been on mission to find fluffy Japanese pancakes. These weren’t quite the cloud-like stacks we’d hoped for, still delicious but we’ll keep searching.

Osaka was everything we’d imagined and more — vibrant, unpredictable, and full of character. We didn’t get to see everything (sorry, Universal Studios and TeamLab Botanical Garden), but that just means we’ll be back.

Final Thoughts on Our One Week in Japan

Our week in Japan felt like both an adventure and a homecoming. From the neon streets of Tokyo to the peaceful temples of Kyoto and the energetic food scene of Osaka. Each city offered something entirely unique and yet all reflected the same hospitality and warmth that make traveling in Japan so unforgettable.

For Ryan, whose Japanese heritage added another layer of meaning to this trip, it was especially meaningful to experience the country firsthand — from sharing sake with locals during an impromptu omakase dinner in Tokyo to staying in a traditional ryokan in Kyoto. And for both of us, Japan deepened our love for fresh seafood (especially sushi) and our appreciation for how beautifully this country blends innovation and tradition.

Looking back, a one-week Japan itinerary was the perfect introduction, it was just enough to experience the highlights while leaving plenty to explore next time. We’re already dreaming about returning to see the TeamLab Botanical Gardens in Osaka, take part in a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto, and wander the stalls of Tsukiji Outer Market.

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, we can’t recommend it enough. Come hungry, stay curious, and give yourself time to slow down and enjoy the little things, like the morning stillness at Fushimi Inari, the busy streets of Dotonbori at night, and the way every meal feels like a work of art.

Japan captured our hearts in a way few places have, and we already know this won’t be our last visit.

Try Local Foods

Main Dishes

• Ramen — A hearty noodle soup with many regional variations.
• Sushi and Sashimi — Fresh, raw fish, either with rice (sushi) or on its own (sashimi).
• Tempura — Lightly battered and deep-fried seafood and vegetables.
• Yakitori — Grilled skewers, most commonly chicken.
• Okonomiyaki — A savory pancake with various ingredients, with regional styles like Hiroshima-style.
• Takoyaki — Ball-shaped snacks filled with diced octopus.
• Donburi — A “rice bowl” dish topped with different ingredients. Popular versions include Katsudon (fried pork cutlet) and Gyudon (beef).
• Japanese Curry — A mild and often sweet curry served over rice.
• Udon and Soba — Thick wheat noodles (udon) and thin buckwheat noodles (soba), served in hot or cold broth.
• Tonkatsu — A breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet.
• Shabu-shabu and Sukiyaki — Hot pot dishes where sliced meat and vegetables are cooked in broth. 
• Gyoza — Pan-fried dumplings filled with meat and vegetables.
• Miso Soup — A traditional soup with a savory broth, often containing tofu and seaweed.
• Mochi — A chewy rice cake, often filled with sweet bean paste or other fillings.
• Matcha — Powdered green tea, enjoyed in various drinks and desserts. 

Popular on-the-go Foods

• Onigiri — A versatile rice ball with various fillings like salmon, tuna, or umeboshi (pickled plum).
• Bento boxes — Pre-packaged meals with rice, protein, and sides, available at convenience stores, train stations, and department store food courts.
• Karaage — Japanese-style fried chicken. A popular and portable snack.
• Skewers and sticks — Items like grilled squid, yakitori, and other meats on a stick are widely available.
• Handheld noodles — Yaki soba (fried noodles) are a filling and portable option.
• Egg sandwiches — A popular and affordable sandwich, often found at convenience stores.
• Other convenience store items — Many stores sell a wide variety of items like steamed buns, sandwiches, fried foods, and even frozen fruit cups or smoothies.