One Week in Japan: Osaka, Kyoto, Himeji, Kobe & Nagoya.
It has been almost three years since we first visited Japan. We visited Japan for the first time in April 2016 and we fell in love with the country. We only stayed in Tokyo for 6 days and did not explore other cities and prefectures. For our second trip, we spent one week in Japan and we decided to explore the Kansai Region this time.
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Is One Week in Japan enough?
Realistically speaking, one week in Japan is not enough to explore everything but it is enough time to see many famous attractions and their hidden gems. We also took a lot of day trips to other cities. Many travelers spend a month or even more in Japan. There are just endless things to do in Japan. If you have a month in Japan, you might also want to spend one to two weeks in Kyushu.
If you don’t want to DIY your trip to Japan, you can also join a tour group. There are several Discover Japan tours available
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Day 1 – Arrive in Osaka
We arrived at Kansai International Airport at around 8 P.M. The first thing we did after immigration is to claim the 4G Wifi and Kansai Wide Area Pass. If you are traveling to outside Kansai, I suggest booking the 7 Days JR Pass to maximize your one week in Japan.
Having a wifi connection is really important since it’s very convenient especially when it comes to navigation. The Kansai Wide Area Pass allows us to have unlimited rides on JR lines and unreserved seats at shinkansen as well as the Haruka Express train. If you are only traveling in Osaka and not visit other cities covered by the pass, I suggest you buy the IC card instead. Do note that the Kansai Wide Area Pass is only for JR lines and it does not include the subway lines in Osaka. You need to buy the IC card for the subway lines. The price of the pass is really worth it especially if you have one week in Japan.
Money-Saving Tips: I activate my Rakuten cashback when booking hotels so that I can save more money when I travel.
Infinity Hotel Dome-Mae Osaka
We stayed at Infinity Hotel Dome-Mae Osaka. It is very unique since they do not have staff at the hotel. They have a self-check-in and self check-out system. It is very easy and not complicated, they will just email you the code in order for you to access the key to your room. It is also a Japanese style apartment which is really great. The place feels like a home away from home. Since our hotel was only two train stations stop from Dotonbori, we decided to have our dinner there.
There are so many options to choose from. We decided to eat at Ichiran, one of our favorite ramen places in Japan. Ichiran was also our first meal in Tokyo when we first visited Japan.
I also ordered some sides such as extra pork, boiled egg, and matcha pudding. Once I am done eating my ramen, I just need to put the green tray at the sensor on the table if I want the servers to serve me my pudding. After dinner, we just walk around Dotonbori before heading back to our hotel.
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Day 2 – Arashiyama, Kyoto Station & Harukas 360
Arashiyama
On our first morning, we took the shinkansen from Shin-Osaka station to Kyoto. We arrived at Arashiyama just before 8 A.M and went to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. We wanted to visit earlier in order to avoid the crowds.
We also explored the Tenryu-Ji temple which is a UNESCO World Heritage. It is also located just beside the bamboo forest so you can visit this temple once you are done exploring the bamboo forest.
There are a lot of shops and restaurants on the street leading to the Togetsukyo Bridge. You can buy some souvenirs or eat some Japanese snacks. If you are looking for a unique souvenir to bring home for yourselves or as presents to your family and friends, I recommend checking out the Orgel Music Box Museum.
Don’t forget to stop by Kimono Forest on your way back to the train station. Kimono Forest is just a few blocks away from the touristy Bamboo Forest yet most tourists just pass by it. It is such an underrated place in Kyoto. The kimonos are inside a cylindrical pillar and they light also light up during night time which makes it even more beautiful.
Lunch: Kyoto Station
Once we were done exploring Arashiyama, we head back to Kyoto station for lunch. Kyoto station is big and there are a lot of shops and restaurants. We had Omurice, an omelet with fried rice at Molette Omelet Restaurant. This restaurant is very famous for its Omurice.
I ordered the hamburger set. It is an Omurice paired with the hamburger. It is also served with some salad and soup. Once we finished lunch, we walked around Kyoto station for a while before heading back to Osaka.
Harukas 300
Since we purchased the VIP special entry pass for Universal Studios Japan, we need to claim it at Harukas 300. It is the tallest building not only in Osaka but in Japan. Once you reached the top, you can see a beautiful view of Osaka.
Once we were done with Harukas 300, we went back to Dotonbori. We tried out Luke Lobsters and there was a small line but it moved quickly.
Aside from street food and restaurants, there are also shops in Dotonbori. There’s a big Don Quijote shop with a yellow Ferris wheel.
The Glico Man is the most photographed in Dotonbori. Some tourists also follow the signature pose of Glico Man for their photos.
Day 3 – Universal Studios Japan
We spent a whole day at the most popular theme park in Japan, Universal Studios Japan. Since it is very touristy, you have to plan your trip so you can make the most of your day at Universal Studios Japan. If you have one week in Japan, you will surely have time to spend one day at a theme park.
I have visited Universal Studios Singapore but that park did not have a Wizarding World of Harry Potter. My favorite attraction in Universal Studios Japan is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It feels like you have been transported to Hogwarts. I am actually not a fan of Harry Potter but I still enjoy all the attractions. Everyone will enjoy this attraction even to those who are not a fan of Harry Potter.
Day 4: Day Trip to Kyoto: Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu Temple, and Gion
Fushimi Inari Shrine
We went back to Kyoto on the fourth day in Japan. Kyoto is the cultural capital of Japan and there are so many temples and shrines to explore. Even if you spend a lifetime in Kyoto, you will still not have time to explore everything.
The first place we visited is the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, where you’ll see thousands of vermilion torii gates. You can see a lot of fox statues in this shrine since they are considered as the messenger of Inari, the god of rice.
Kiyomizu-Dera
We took a cab to our next stop which is Kiyomizu-Dera. You need to climb the slope to reach the Kiyomizu Temple. There are shops selling Kyoto souvenirs and while shopping your way to the temple, you are actually doing a thousand-year-old tradition.
Sannenzka and Ninenzaka Slopes
The temple was under construction in preparation for the 2020 Olympics when we visited. Once we were done exploring the temple, we went to Sannenzaka and Ninnenzaka slopes. Sannenzaka slope is one of the most photographed places in Kyoto, especially during the spring season. It is one of the top places to see cherry blossoms in Kyoto.
If you are a big fan of Studio Ghibli, check out the Studio Ghibli shop in Ninnenzaka. There’s also a traditional Starbucks shop with tatami mats. It is a unique experience when in Kyoto.
Kaiseki Lunch at Gion
We wanted to experience a Kaiseki meal which is an authentic Kyoto cuisine. The best place to try the Kaiseki meal in Kyoto is in Gion. We went to Gion Hanasaki and even if we did not have a reservation, we were still able to get a seat in five minutes since we went at 2 P.M. It is such a unique dining experience when in Kyoto. The lunch menu set is much affordable than dinner. We ordered the eight-course Kaiseki meal and it is definitely one of the most memorable meals we had.
Gion
We just walked around Gion after lunch and ate Matcha Desserts which is also a must when in Kyoto. We took the shinkansen back to Osaka after exploring Gion.
Day 5: Day Trip to Himeji and Kobe
We went on a day trip to Himeji and Kobe on our fourth day in Japan. What I like about spending a week in Japan is that you can take a lot of day trips. You have time to explore more cities in Japan. You will surely make the most of your trip if you have one week in Japan.
Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Japan. It is best known for its white appearance. What I liked most about this castle is compared to other castles in Japan, Himeji Castle was never destroyed by war, earthquake, fire, and others. It has just been renovated over the years. Himeji Castle is the most beautiful castle I’ve seen in Japan. It is also really beautiful during the spring season.
Lunch at Kobe Steakland
The main reason why we went to Kobe is to experience eating Kobe beef. What better place to try Kobe beef for the first time than Kobe. Kobe Steakland is where you can find affordable Kobe beef but still good quality. The Kobe beef here is not exactly the best, but it was still a delicious and a great experience. The chef will cook the beef in front of you so this is definitely a unique experience. If you are on a budget, I recommend going for lunch since the lunch set is more affordable than the dinner set.
Nunobiki Herb Garden
Kobe is part of the Kansai Region and it is a must-visit if you have more time in Japan. You can experience eating the famous Kobe beef. I love how you don’t see a lot of tourists when visiting Kobe. Most tourists who visit the Kansai Region only visit famous places such as Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara. They often overlooked Kobe. If you are visiting Kobe, I recommend checking out Nunobiki Herb Garden. It is such a unique place, you can experience riding a cable car to the entrance of the garden and you can see a beautiful view of Kobe.
Day 6: Nagoya Day Trip
Since we had one week in Japan, we can have more than one day-trips and this time, we went to Nagoya. This is the highlight of our trip for me. It is such a quiet and peaceful city, we barely saw anyone else while walking around. We only saw tourists at popular attractions like Nagoya Castle.
Yamazaki River
The first place we visited is the Yamazaki River, we went there at around 8:30 A.M. If you want to enjoy the cherry blossoms in Japan, I highly recommend Yamazaki River. We were the only tourists there, we only saw some locals going for their morning run. Yamazaki River is also one of the top cherry blossom spots in Japan
Nagoya Castle
Nagoya Castle is a must-visit when in Nagoya. You can easily recognize Nagoya Castle when you see the two goldfish at the roof. You would feel like you were transported back in time since you will see a lot of samurais and ninjas walking around the castle. It is also one of the largest castles in Japan.
You can also enjoy the cherry blossom trees at the park around the castle. Nagoya Castle is also one of the best cherry blossoms viewing spots in Japan. There are not many crowds here as well compared to Tokyo and Kyoto.
We went to Nagoya station for lunch. We ate Hitsumabushi, which is an eel dish. Nagoya is famous for having delicious eel dishes. I recommend trying out Hitsumabushi when you are in Nagoya
Nabana no Sato
We took the bus from Meitetsu Bus Center, just beside Nagoya station to Nabana no Sato, a flower theme park in Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture. Nabana no Sato is also the place where you can find the biggest winter illumination in Japan. This is my favorite place that we visited on our trip.
Although it is a winter illumination, you do not have to visit only during the wintertime. This illumination is open from late October to early May. It is really great because if you want to see winter illuminations in Japan but cannot visit during winter, you will still be able to experience it.
Nabana no Sato is also a flower theme park so you can also see many beautiful flowers such as Begonia, Tulips, and others. The Begonia Garden is such a beautiful and relaxing place.
Day 7: Last Day
Our flight is still at 9 P.M so we can still explore Osaka before heading to the airport. Our original plan was to visit Osaka castle in the morning but since we arrived in Osaka from Nagoya at midnight the night before, we were very exhausted. Even if my travel style is ‘always on the go’, it is actually nice to just relax and chill sometimes, you’re on a vacation after all. We went out after checking out at the hotel. It was already 11 A.M and we head to Dotonbori for lunch
Creo-ru for Lunch
Everyone who visits Osaka must try Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki. Osaka is known as the nation’s kitchen so you’ll surely enjoy the food here.
I highly recommend Creo-Ru, they have the best Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki in Osaka. Once we finished lunch, we went for last-minute shopping. We also stopped by one of the cutest and unique shops in Japan, Alice on Wednesday.
After shopping around Dotonbori, we headed to the airport. We dropped off the wifi that we have rented and checked in for our flight back to Manila.
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Fae Celine
Ever since starting her travel blog on April 2019, Fae has loved taking photographs of new places and sharing them online. Now, in her 20s, take a peek in her life as she pulls you into a world of travel, food and lifestyle.
148 Comments
Stephanie
I don’t think a week would be enough in any country to see it all, but it looks like you packed a lot into that time! I would love to visit Japan one day when my boys are a bit older to make the long journey over there.
Fae Celine
I can’t wait for you and your boys to visit Japan. I’m sure you’ll all enjoy the country :))
Nene
I would love to go visit Japan especially to easy all the delicious food. Thanks for sharing
Lina Ray
Just wondering how you brought every aspect, from scenic view to sophisticated urban areas so beautifully in a single post! The places are really great and worth paying visits to. Ty.
Fae Celine
Thank you! :)) Every place in Japan is really worth a visit
Heather
Japan looks like an amazing place to visit. The gardens and parks look so beautiful!
Fae Celine
Japan has so many beautiful places to explore, I love coming back to Japan because there is always something new to explore
Kate Loves Travel
I’d love to visit Japan – it looks such a beautiful country! And the places you visited all sound amazing… I’ll get there one day!
Fae Celine
I can’t wait for you to visit Japan! :))
Angela Tolsma
I love the tiny door on Alice on Wednesday, also what a unique name for a store. My husband and I are planning to go to Japan in 2021. I can’t wait!
Kelly
Kyoto would definitely be my favorite. I would love to see the temples! I would have to spend at least a couple days eating. I LOVE Japanese food lol.
Trijit
The post is really helpful for the first timer’s. The way you have described makes me more curious to travel in Japan.
Fae Celine
me too! Japanese food is just so delicious! The food in Kyoto especially kaiseki meals are amazing
Fae Celine
me too!! it’s one of the unique shops I’ve visited :))
Margaret Smith
What an amazing place spend time. Every spot you stopped for a photo looks so beautiful and that Matcha Desserts look yummy.
Fae Celine
Japan has so many wonderful photo spots :))
Joanne
You managed to fit a lot into one week! Japan seems to be a lovely place to visit and I hope to make a trip there sometime!
Fae Celine
I wanted to maximize my one week in Japan and make the most of my trip :))
Olya AMANOVA
An abundance of visual material makes this read an experience of an exceptional kind. You make me enjoy every post. And I never regret the time spent on your website.
Fae Celine
thank you!! š
Eileen M Loya
I would love to explore Japan too! I want to see their nature parks, museums, and temples. And of course, have my fill of delicious, authentic ramen!
Fae Celine
They have the most beautiful temples and shrines and the most delicious ramen I ever had!
Tiffany @ Mommy And Me Travels
Your trip was so colorful. I love the pictures. The food that you ate looks super yummy. I can’t wait till we make it to Japan.
Fae Celine
I love Japanese food!! I can’t wait for you to visit Japan! :))
AlbĆna MrĆ”zovĆ”
You managed to do a lot in one week! I’m happy that you are sharing your plan, it is very inspiring, I would never think about doing it in such a short time.
Fae Celine
I love maximizing my time but also not feel rushed to see each attraction, so there are also some popular attractions we missed. One week in Japan is still not enough but it’s better than nothing
Medha Verma
One week to cover all these cities sounds like less time but you have made the most of the time you had! I visited Japan a couple of years ago and loved it, it was so unique in many ways. I managed to visit pretty much all the places you’ve mentioned here, however, I did not make it to Universal Studios. I would’ve loved to see that Hogwarts Castle!
Fae Celine
I agree, One week in Japan feels like a short time to visit a lot of places but with planning and research, we were able to explore more cities.
Razena
A friend of mine studied at a Japanese university and I have always wanted to visit. Your photos of the winter illumination at Nabana no Sato have sealed the deal and I will have to plan a trip in the near future.
Fae Celine
the winter illumination in Nabana no Sato is definitely the main reason why we included Nagoya in our One week in Japan trip. It was definitely the highlight of my trip for me, the next one was when we visited Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Niry
I’d love to visit Japan soon! And also I’d love to stay there more than a week! I think it really deserves. Waiting for that day to come!
Fae Celine
I can’t wait for you to visit Japan! One week in Japan is definitely enough, I would want to stay for more than a week on our next Japan trip
Anna
“Wow, this place looks really beautiful! Wish to see someday too!
x0x0,
Anna
ā„ https://www.annalovelife.com/baler-aurora/“
Michelle Christie
Your photos are so vibrant and beautiful! I have never visited Japan before, but would love to! I enjoy learning more about the culture and the food.
Katrina
Visiting Japan would be a dream come true. I love reading your one Week in Japan Itinerary
Fae Celine
thank you for reading! š
Surekha-dreamingloud
You had really made the most out of the six days stay Japan.. That was so nice..! The places that you went to are so fantastic..! Thanks for the pics.. ?
Fae Celine
Japanese food is one of my favorite cuisines and the culture in Japan is so amazing
WanderlustBeautyDreams
What an awesome trip you had. You got visit so many awesome places. This is so on my bucketlist!
Fae Celine
Japan has always been on top of my bucket list and having the opportunity to visit Japan has been a dream come true for me. I’m glad I was able to spend one week in Japan
Summer
All of the food you ate looks delicious. Love all the flowering trees in your pictures too. These sound like my kind of places!
Fae Celine
I love eating food whenever I am in Japan especially the street foods
Pia - Dream and Wanderland
Japan is on my wishlist for a very long time now. The chance to go there becomes higher within the next two years. Hope this will work out for me somehow! Would love to see at least a bit of this amazing country!
Fae Celine
Japan is one of the best countries I have ever visited. I am so blessed to have the opportunity to travel to Japan. I can’t wait for you to experience Japan
Samantha Donnelly
We have been talking about taking our Daughter to Japan at some stage, ever since she was little she has had a love of Japan.
Fae Celine
I’m sure she would enjoy Japan! There are just so many beautiful places to explore and delicious Japanese food to try!
Crickette, The Things I Have to Say
I love ramen–and I feel that I’m missing half my life, since I haven’t tasted Ichiran yet. I love your photos!!! I’m sure you enjoyed your trip!
Fae Celine
I was never the biggest fan of ramen, whenever I eat at ramen restaurants here in the Philippines, I can’t finish them but when I first tried Ichiran, I became a big fan of ramen.
Subhashish Roy
I have been a little clueless about places to visit when we decide to travel to Japan. This post of yours is like a guide to me and would be of great help when I plan.
Fae Celine
I’m glad this one week in japan itinerary can be helpful for you š
Michael
WOW! It looks like you have jam-packed your IT really well. A week to visit all those places must be tiring!
Fae Celine
since we mostly take day trips during our one week in Japan, we are tired when we return to our hotel, but our experience and adventures made us forget about it, it’s worth it
Mijia Eggers
The Sannenzaka Slope is a busy shopping street?! I also spent two weeks in Japan and also visited the Nagoya Temple as well. That is very impressive!
Fae Celine
the Sannenzaka slope is lined with so many traditional shops and restaurants š
Stephanie Parrell
Breathtaking photos. I would love to go to Japan someday, such a unique culture!
Fae Celine
Japan has one of the most amazing culture! I love the culture of Japan
Marysa
So many great things to see there! The scenery is just beautiful and there are lots of interesting things to check out. Looks like you had an amazing time!
Fae Celine
the scenery in Japan is one of the best! I keep coming back to Japan just to explore more beautiful sceneries
Tianas lens
My cousin is planning a trip to Japan next year and I will definitely show this to her. This is a very detailed but yet simple article
Fae Celine
Thank you! š
Sarah Emery
I love Japan. It’s such a fascinating country. It looks like you covered a lot of areas! And that the trip was an absolute success. Happy and safe travels!
Krysten Quiles
Stunning. I have several friends that have been to Japan and just love it there. Looks so beautiful. Thanks so much for sharing this with us!
Clarice
Totally agree with you. One week in Japan is not enough. There are a lot of things to see and do and this is the main reason why we’re planning to move there in the next few years.
Anyway, thank you for sharing your trip. We haven’t fully explored the Kansai area but will definitely consider it during our next visit.
Clarice
Totally agree with you. One week in Japan is not enough. There are a lot of things to see and do and this is the main reason why we’re planning to move there in the next few years.
Anyway, thank you for sharing your trip. We haven’t fully explored the Kansai area but will definitely consider it during our next visit. š
Joanna
You have managed to include so many things in only one week spent in Japan. I like that you tasted a lot of the local food as well. I would love to visit Japan one day.
Rifat
There’s soo much to see in Japan, I’d probably need 2 weeks and I am very impressed by the food options. Every dish looks mouth watering!
Sondra Barker
Japan is one of my absolute favorite places I have been to. The culture, history, and unique differences between every city is like nothing that I have ever seen before. reciprocated by Natasha Romero-Salas
Kuntala Bhattacharya
Amazing photos, excellent capture. Japan is one of the excellent places to visit in the world and you made it. I loved each one of the pictures. How splendid the place it.
Dominique Brooks
Your week was action-packed. You picked very entertaining sites and tasty restaurants to cover during this week. These photos are quite amazing! Glad you had a great time!
Maysz
Wow, your photos make me jealous Lol! Japan is my dreamland can’t wait to go there soon Love your photos!
Kiwi
You made this a dream come true for me. I have always wanted to go to Japan and you confirmed how fun and magical Japan can be!
David Elliott
I think one week is never really enough to explore anywhere and not get a true sense of what it is. But it looks like you did a lot. And took some amazing photos along the way.
Olya AMANOVA
I want very much to visit this colorful in impressions and cultural peculiarities place. I feel after reading this blog – that I need to go after your steps, see what you’ve seen and the sooner the better.
Sundeep
Looking at your beautiful travel photos it is very difficult for me to concentrate on work. Japan is in our bucket list. After reading your blog we decided to visit asap.
Laura
wow, it looks like beautiful trip. I have yet to visit Japan and I do want to visit some of the places from this list x
Laura
https://pinkfrenzymissl.blogspot.com/
mudpiefridays
So many things to love about Japan! It’s really beautiful out there. Truly a bucket list material.
Sarah
I have never traveled to Japan but I would love to. Your photos are gorgeous! It looks like such a fabulous trip. Thank you for sharing!
Melanie Frost
Your photos are amazing! Every single one is more beautiful than the next. It really makes me want to go there so badly.
Steph S
So many beautiful colours and flavours! I would love to visit Japan!
Bree
That sounds like an awesome week! I would love to travel there and do those things!
Lasonia
Japan is such a beautiful country. I hope to be able to visit one day. I loved taking a mini tour through your photos.
Valerie Durias
This is beautiful! I feel like one week won’t be enough to fully take in this beauty!
Miljana
Japan is gorgeous! I’ve never had a chance to visit it, although I’ve been to one Japanese field once. I love your photos!
Aireona
I’ve been to Japan several times now and Kyoto is still my favorite city. Even despite the crowds- I just love the vibe there so much. All the other locations you visited are amazing too!
Angela Coleman Sherman
I”d love to visit here!
Hollysbirdnest
What a beautiful post!! Your pictures are amazing and thi make me want to visit Japan even more…Hopefully one day!
Katie Frazier
Everything looked amazing! The food looked so unique, and the sights looks so beautiful! Japan wasnāt on my travel list before, but it definitely is now! Pinning for later ?
joy
a self service hotel? how fascinating. no security? housekeeping? is that typical in japan?
Joy at The Joyous Living
Mila R
I have visited Osaka but not those other places. Thank You for sharing!
Sarah
I really hope to visit Japan one day. This guide does a great job of showing places to visit during a short stay there. All the areas are so beautiful and it makes me want to visit even more. The food looks delicious.
Liz | The Spectacular Adventurer
This was such an informative guide!!! We love visiting Japan, but haven’t been to most places in this guide! Really makes me want to go back soon and visit all the amazing sites we missed!
Liz @ https://thespectacularadventurer.com/
Image Earth Travel
Food looks amazing! Great photos…
Soumya Gayatri
This looks like such a great itinerary for a week in Japan. We are planning a trip to Japan next year during cherry blossoms and your post is quite helpful. Himeji Castle looks gorgeous. I am looking forward to getting some great photographs when I go there. I had never heard of Nabana no Sato. That looks so interesting. We will be traveling in early May. So, hope to catch that too.
Leah
Youāve given lovely suggestions for a week in Japan! Osaka has been on my bucket list, but Iām realizing that thereās so much more to see. The castles look really fascinating. Kyoto looks like a great place for even more than an a day!
Lisa
OMG Japan is my dream destination, so this is the perfect post for me! Youāve covered an impressive number of cities on your travels and I want to visit each and every one. Iām most drawn to Kyoto because of its geisha culture. Nagoya also looks equally beautiful, and itās making me even more determined to visit one day soon.
Paul Healy
I absolutely love Japan and you’re right, you could definitely spend more time there than just a week. There are lots of places on your itinerary that I haven’t seen, so I’m inspired to go back. I’d love to go to Osaka and Nagoya – the castle there looks mesmerizing. Thanks or all the tips, I’ve pinned this for planning purposes.
Yukti Agrawal
Wow you have spent One Week in Japan so beautifull by covering its beautiful places like Osaka, Kyoto, Himeji, Kobe & Nagoya. My sons would definitely go for Universal studios in Japan. Himeji castles is truly the most beautiful one and even I can say it looks like very fairy tale type of castle. Thanks for sharing wonderful itinerary.
daniel
Great post!! Japan has to be one of the most places on earth. I haven’t been to Japan yet but it has always been my dream destination. And you have included all the places I know and have eyed on for when I go to Japan. Cherry blossom has to be one best thing in Japan, I would love to set up for a picnic while I sit under cherry blossom trees.
Bhushavali N
As someone who strongly advocates & practices dometic tourism, I have to agree that in one week you can’t see any country well. You can see probably, one place, well. That’s it. Lifetime is never enough to explore even 1 country thoroughly! All we aspire to do it just see the major spots in each country!
Good to know that you managed to explore another region in this visit. I’ve heard much about JR Pass, but this is the first time I’m coming to know of Kansai Wide Area Pass.
The concept of having a sensor on the table is hifi! Wow! Good to know you explored the Bamboo forest and Tenryu-Ji temple early morning before crowds.
Paula
I would say that one week is definitely not enough, but it’s better than nothing and you can always return. There is so much to see in Japan. We did some of these places couple years ago but we also missed many places like Arashiyama. I never heard of the Kimono forest but it looks very cool. We loved Himeji Castle.
Elizabeth
Looks like you fit a lot into one week in Japan! I’m a big fan of Harry Potter and never knew there was a Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Japan. I have always wanted to visit Japan during spring and Himeji Castle confirms that….it’s so magical!
Genevieve
Your trip looks amazing, aided by your terrific photos. We first visited Japan in 2003 and then returned in 2008 and have then been back twice more on cruises that circumnavigated Japan. I’m yet to get to Kyoto and Kobe but cannot wait to return to see more of the beauty and unique style that Japan offers.
Aditi Sharma
Such an informative post that will definitely help me plan a one week vacation in Japan. Your photographs are absolutely incredible and it is so impressive that you were able to cover so much in just a week. Nabana no Sato looks magical. I know I am going to be referring to your post for travel tips when we plan our trip.
Teresa
I love your photos of your Japan vacation. I also dream of going to Japan to visit it with my family. Hope we can go there in the future.
Sadly, there was a super typhoon that devastated Japan yesterday.
Maria
Japan is always one of the dream destinations that I have on my bucket list. I aspire to go there someday. One of the places that you visited, Nabana no Sato, always amazes me in different ways. You’re lucky to have visited the place!!
Anna Intrepid Scout
Wonderful post! Your itinerary is jam packed and this is how I like it. I fill my days to the brim when I travel.
Stunning pictures as well!
Brianna
We spent two weeks in Japan, and even *that* wasn’t enough! We visited Tokyo and Kyoto and did many of the same things you did (Kiyumizu was hidden in scaffolding for us, too :\). We’re going back next year, and this time, we’re going to spend a month in our favorite country!
Karen
We have Japan in our sights for either spring or autumn so this is helpful thank you. Kx
Jay Artale
That bamboo forest looks really impressive! I’m sure they’ll be a huge increase of traveller to Japan now that they’ve hosted the rugby.
Larch Gauld
This is a great start for my putting together my itinerary for Japan next year! So many things to do and see!
Angella
I absolutely love this post. My husband has been to Japan but I never had the chance. We had initially planned to go after our South Korea trip last month but last minute cancelled & went to Kauai instead (which worked out d/t the typhoon)! I will be pinning this for later…hopefully a trip in 2020!
If you are interested in wellness & travel, come swing by my site as well! Would love to share tips!
Under Flowery Sky
Beautiful pictures, I would love to visit Japan,
specially Kyoto..
Stacie
Oh wow, that is the experience of a lifetime. I have been wanting to visit Japan for decades, but I haven’t been able to make it happen yet. One day, though!
joy
the kimono forest looks really cool! thanks for all these great photos!!
Joy at The Joyous Living
Kristin
Oh how wonderful!! I have always wanted to visit those Cheery trees, so gorgeous!!
Kelly Martin
Your photos look amazing! Iād love to spend a week in Japan! So beautiful.
Ntensibe Edgar Michael
Nnniiiiccceeeeeee….I would love to have my lunch at Tokyo Station, to be very honest! That looks really delish.
emily zielinski
Wow, Osaka looks brilliant! its on my list of places to visit. thanks for the information, i cant wait to go one day.
Blairvillanueva
Last July we visited Japan and stayed mainly in Tokyo. It was an awesome experience and I can’t wait to go back next year and stay in Osaka and Kyoto.
Angela Milnes
I have always wanted to visit Japan. Osaka is such a pretty place!
Emman Damian
One week is not enough to be honest! Maybe if you’re in one city like Tokyo, yes! That would be enough! Multiple cities? Nope!
Fatima Torres
Oh wow, you were able to see much during your week in Japan. This must’ve been quite the experience.
Dana Brillante-Peller
These places bring back memories of my trip. It was quite the experience as well.
Brian
One week definitely sounds like it wouldn’t be enough time, but I agree that it seems like you could see and do a lot. Japan is high on our list of places we hope to visit sometime in the next few years, thanks for sharing this!
Ruth
Japan is definitely a country that I would love to visit one day. Itās so beautiful. You are so lucky to get to go there so much :3 I love studio Ghibli so the shop you went too looks like a dream come true for me!!
Anna Jo
Japan is just so lovely; every spot seems so picturesque. I enjoyed reading all about your adventures, and it’s amazing how you got to see so much within one week. Thanks for sharing with us!
Anna Jo | http://helloannajo.blogspot.com
Cyndi Buchanan
I would love to visit Japan one day soon! So glad you got to make it back. I loved looking through your wonderful pictures!
angela
I would love to visit Japan in November 2020. This has inspired me even more. Lovely photos. Kyoto looks amazing.
Sue Davies
Lovely photos. It definitely made me want to spend more than 1 week in Japan. Maybe just 1 week in Tokyo alone.
Anna
For me, it’s always a difficult situation when I want to travel to a big, far away country with only 1 week. Travel takes up some time, and then I have to run around to see the important things. I think you guys made the best out of your time and the tips are great!
Sinjana
It’s like a dreamland! The cherry blossoms, the castles, the lights, the views – everything you wrote about are so intriguing. It makes me long for a trip to Japan
Trishan Mehta
Japan is on my must-visit list because of its beauty and Buddhist culture. Thanks for this detailed post.
Farrah
I’ve never been to Japan, but it’s definitely on my travel bucket list!! I want to eat everything and to check out the bamboo forest + Studio Ghibli museum (+ the amusement park when it opens)! Your photos are beautiful!
Angella
This is such a comprehensive guide! My husband & I hope to visit Japan in 2020, maybe spring/fall after revisiting South Korea. We always seem to choose a time when disaster (hurricane last Oct/Nov) or tensions with local Koreans (do you know much about this?).
Jan
This post brought back memories of my Japan visit in 2016! We loved every bit of it including the ease of riding on Shinkansens to cover all parts of Japan. Yes, it requires more than a visit to see everything in the country. I love that Arashiama bamboo forest picture! š
Wendy Lee
I will be going to Japan in April and really appreciate all the great tips. It’s a beautiful and fascinating country and I can’t wait to return.
Slavka
Amazing experience! That is a perfect itinerary that I have in mind for my trip to Japan. Will follow your footsteps š
Corinne
I like how you did Japan; it’s smart. Separate Tokyo from Kyoto and Osaka. There’s so much to do in all three places. With this plan, you really hit all the important sites! I love your photos. I would add going to the Kishiki Market in Kyoto and also eating lunch at the Mall near the Aquarium in Osaka. Both places are super interesting and fun. Great article!
Erin Foster
Looks like an amazing trip. I’ve always wanted to go to Japan! Looks like you could extend your trip with the same itinerary and just stay longer in each place!
Fae Celine
Yes! Japan is amazing. One Week in Japan is not enough
Jody
This looks like quit a trip. I have always wanted to see the beauty of Japan. I hope one day to be able to travel and visit all the places you mentioned!
Lisa
I visited Japan way back in 1989, and this brought back wonderful memories. Your photos are stunning. Thank you for sharing your travel experiences.
Sandra Joseph
I wrote a blog about my crushed dreams of going to the Olympics. That would have been my big moment to see Japan. It may not be happening this year, but I will make it there eventually.Beautiful pictures.
Courtney
In loveeee! Japan is just so special! Did you visit the ramen street at Kyoto?? Wish i had more time to visit himeji castle, its soooo beautiful!??
Adriane
This itinerary is awesome! So many great ideas.
Nicky
I intended on heading to Japan later this year, but with the current travel restrictions Iām holding fire booking tickets. So pleased I came across this itinerary though, you packed so much into a week. Thanks for the tip re renting Wifi too!
Georgina
Japan has so much to offer and I’m sure one week was not enough but you did very well by visiting the most popular attractions such as Kyoto, Kobe, Osaka, Himeji and Nagoya.
Darina Confidus
Wow! Amazing place! Your photos are impressive. Looking at them I seemed to be there. Thanks for the opportunity to see this!