Ultimate 10-Day Japan Itinerary: Explore Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto on a Budget

Japan is a dream destination for many travelers, offering a mix of modern cities, historic temples, and delicious cuisine. This 10-day itinerary will help you explore Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto efficiently while keeping costs under control.

Day 1-4: Tokyo – The Capital of Contrasts

Day 1: Arrival & Shinjuku

Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport, purchase a Suica/Pasmo card for public transport.
Explore Shinjuku: visit Shinjuku Gyoen Park, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (free view), and enjoy nightlife in Kabukicho.
Dinner at an affordable izakaya (Japanese pub).

Day 2: Shibuya & Harajuku

Visit Shibuya Crossing and take a photo with Hachiko Statue.
Explore Takeshita Street for trendy shopping and street food.
Enjoy sunset at Shibuya Sky (best panoramic view of Tokyo).

Day 3: Asakusa & Akihabara

Visit Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise shopping street in Asakusa.
Take a Sumida River cruise to Odaiba, enjoy the teamLab Borderless museum.
Explore Akihabara, a paradise for anime, gaming, and electronics lovers.

Day 4: Day Trip to Mount Fuji or Nikko

Option 1: Fuji Five Lakes – Take a bus to Kawaguchiko, see Chureito Pagoda and Lake Kawaguchi.
Option 2: Nikko – Visit Toshogu Shrine, Kegon Falls, and Lake Chuzenji.

Day 5-7: Kyoto – The Cultural Heart of Japan

Day 5: Arrival & Gion

Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Kyoto (book a JR Pass in advance).
Stroll through the Gion district, spot geishas, and explore Pontocho Alley.
Visit Yasaka Shrine at night for a peaceful experience.

Day 6: Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari

Walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and visit Togetsukyo Bridge.
Take a boat ride on the Hozugawa River.
In the afternoon, hike through the Fushimi Inari Shrine’s torii gates.

Day 7: Kiyomizu-dera & Philosopher’s Path

Start the day at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, offering breathtaking city views.
Walk the Higashiyama District, stopping at Sanneizaka and Ninenzaka streets.
Follow the Philosopher’s Path to Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion).

Day 8-10: Osaka – The Food Capital

Day 8: Osaka Castle & Namba

Visit Osaka Castle, then explore the nearby Osaka Museum of History.
Spend the evening in Dotonbori, trying famous street foods like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.

Day 9: Universal Studios Japan (USJ) or Nara Day Trip

Option 1: USJ – Spend the day at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World.
Option 2: Nara – Visit Todai-ji Temple, feed the friendly deer, and explore Kasuga Taisha Shrine.

Day 10: Shopping & Departure

Last-minute shopping at Shinsaibashi, Kuromon Market, or Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street.
Take the Haruka Express to Kansai Airport for departure.

Budget Travel Tips

Get a Japan Rail Pass if traveling between cities by Shinkansen.
Stay in capsule hotels or budget-friendly guesthouses.
Buy food from konbini (convenience stores) for affordable meals.
Use IC cards (Suica, Pasmo, ICOCA) for easy public transport access.
Visit free attractions like parks, shrines, and viewpoints.

This 10-day itinerary covers the best of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, balancing famous sights, local experiences, and budget-friendly travel tips. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Japan!