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.
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. Even if you can’t explore everything, there’s always a reason to visit Japan again.
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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.
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. Since our hotel was only two train stations stop from Namba, 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 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.
Thanks for reading! 🙂
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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.
60 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 :))
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!
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!! 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!! 🙂
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!
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! :))
Albína Mrázová
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.
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!
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.
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!
Anna
“Wow, this place looks really beautiful! Wish to see someday too!
x0x0,
Anna
❥ 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
WanderlustBeautyDreams
What an awesome trip you had. You got visit so many awesome places. This is so on my bucketlist!
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!
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!
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.
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!
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.
Michael
WOW! It looks like you have jam-packed your IT really well. A week to visit all those places must be tiring!
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!
Stephanie Parrell
Breathtaking photos. I would love to go to Japan someday, such a unique culture!
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!
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
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. 🙂
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.
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!