The Ultimate 7-Day Japan Travel Itinerary Guide For Tourists

Planning a one-week trip to Japan but no idea where to start? Here’s a comprehensive Japan travel itinerary guide specially made for first-time tourists like you!

Japan remains to be one of the most well-loved and visited places in the world. It has a modern landscape and a well-preserved heritage at the same time, a fusion that everyone loves.

Got limited time to travel? Don’t worry! You can still have the best of Japan in just 7 days, plus you can make this trip a truly convenient one with QR codes.

You can create these codes from a free QR code generator to guarantee functional and high-quality ones. Check out the itinerary below.

Welcome to the land of the rising

Japan is a famous Asian country known for its rich cultural heritage, unique fashion taste, and advanced technology—so advanced that many would say Japan is living in the future.

In fact, it is home to many technological products like mobile phones, automobiles, and QR codes. You might be curious what is a QR code but we’ll get to that later.

Japan’s diversity has captured the hearts of many, especially tourists. Japan is flocked by visitors yearly, especially during spring when cherry blossoms bloom.

If this excites you to visit Japan, too, here’s a Japan travel recommendation crafted for travelers like you below.

Day 1: Tokyo

Most international flights are situated in Tokyo—Japan’s capital. So most likely, this will be your start-off point, and many Airbnb accommodations are just within the area.

If so, then it is a must to start your Japan travel itinerary trip in this dynamic metropolis where modernity meets heritage.

Tsukiji Fish Market

Start your day with a sushi breakfast which costs around ¥2,000 ($13.55) at the Tsukiji Fish Market. The inner market is home to wholesale fresh fish and other kinds of seafood.

The outer market has rows of restaurants where you can dine. You can enjoy these restaurants and avail souvenirs, like Japanese tea sets and matcha-flavored snacks, with an estimated cost of around ¥13,500 ($91.45).

The market opens as early as 5 am and gets really crowded by 9 am, so this is your sign of waking up early, list this in your itinerary in Japan and never mind that jetlag!

Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji temple is just a quick walk from Asakusa train station. Prominent for its red paint, it also includes a five-story pagoda and the Kaminarimon, or “Thunder Gate.” Consider this as your next stop after Tsukiji.

And since this is a historical site, get ready to witness huge statues of different gods, including Kannon—a deity who grants deliverance from suffering to anyone who calls upon his name.

The temple opens at 6 am and closes doors by 5 pm. The best thing about this is that the open ground is open 24/7 and for free.

The Tokyo Tower

In just less than a 30-minute car ride from Senso-ji, you’ll get to Tokyo Tower—the Japanese counterpart of the Eiffel Tower. 

If you want to stay in the main observation deck, which is 492 feet up, prepare ¥1,200 ($8.13) as a fee.

But if you want to go to the top, it’ll cost you ¥2,800 ($18.97); however, it will be worth the price since you’ll get to have a wide view of the city and even Mt. Fuji.

Day 2: Tokyo

On your second day, you can continue seizing more of Tokyo. As big as it is, you won’t be able to experience it in just a day, so spend your second day seeing more of what Tokyo has to offer.

Visit Japan Ueno Park

You can start the day by taking a walk to Japan’s home of cherry blossom trees as well as the Tokyo National Museum.

The museum fee is ¥1,000 ($6.77); pay and have a close-up look at the world’s largest collection of art and artifacts from Asia.

Note that different museums within the park vicinity vary in entrance fee, ranging from ¥300 to ¥700 ($2.03 – $4.74). But you can also visit the Ueno Zoo, which is Japan’s oldest zoo with four hundred animal species.

Meiji Shrine and Takeshita Street

In the afternoon, continue discovering tranquility and the bustling city by visiting the Meiji Shrine. You can do a few activities there, including writing wishes on wooden plaques called ema.

After an 11-minute car drive, you’ll get to Takeshita Street—a shopping street in Japan where you can get fashionable items from the lines of unique boutiques.

And then, just a kilometer away, you’ll be in the famous Shibuya Crossing of Tokyo—an iconic symbol of Tokyo where many movies and celebrity photos were taken.

Just adjacent to the crossing is the Hachiko Statue, whose story many have wept over. You’ll never get bored in Tokyo.

Roppongi and Shinjuku’s Golden Gai

To end the day 2 of your trip to Japan, explore the nightlife in Roppongi, known for its vibrant nightlife, upscale dining, and contemporary art scene.

The district’s nightlife features trendy bars, nightclubs, and lounges, making it a popular destination for those looking to experience Tokyo’s cosmopolitan and sophisticated side.

Then head over to Golden Gai, a small, atmospheric nightlife area known for its historic narrow alleyways and tiny bars.

Despite its modest size, Golden Gai boasts over 200 unique bars, each with its own distinct theme, decor, and atmosphere.

Day 3: Hakone

Hakone is a picturesque town known for its natural hot springs, stunning views of Mount Fuji, and diverse attractions.

You can find the Hakone Open Air Museum, ride a boat cruise on Lake Ashi, and Hakone Shrine. It combines nature, art, and relaxation perfectly, making it a popular destination for those needing an urban escape.

A day trip to the Hakone Open Air Museum, Hakone Shrine, and a dip in a hot spring would cost ¥1,500 ($10.16) – ¥3,000 ($20.33).

Day 4: Kyoto

Dedicate your fourth day exploring the city of Kyoto, which is just a train away from Tokyo. It is home to world heritage sites, making it a perfect place to visit for heritage lovers.

Fushimi Inari Shrine 

One of the most photo-perfect spots in Japan, Fushimi Inari Shrine is known for its lined-up red torii gates that lead up to Mount Inari.

Originally, the shrine was dedicated to their Shinto god of rice and prosperity, but today it also makes a good posing spot! Check out this spot in the morning to get a full view of the entire scenery.

Kinkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji

These are both Zen temples known for their breathtaking exterior and wonderful landscape. Their panoramic view provides a picturesque effect that’s perfect for all seasons.

A walk in the area is indeed a glimpse of rich Japanese traditions and history. So if you deeply love nature and history, this is a must-part of your Japan travel itinerary.

Gion District

The Gion District is popular for its traditional wooden machiya houses, narrow streets, and preservation of traditional Japanese culture.

There you can interact with geisha and maiko in their exquisite traditional attire, providing you with a glimpse of rich Japanese culture and its authenticity.

It’s preferable to visit the Gion District at night to witness performances while having a hearty meal or a hot sip of tea.

Day 5: Kyoto

Fifth in your Japan travel itinerary, enjoy the natural wonders of Kyoto.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Monkey Park Iwatayam

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is a mesmerizing natural attraction characterized by towering bamboo groves that create a serene and otherworldly atmosphere.

Not far from it is the Monkey Park Iwatayama, a hilltop sanctuary where visitors can interact with Japanese macaques.

Day 6: Nara

A day trip to Nara should be on your list. This city offers various wonders, starting from a stroll to Nara Deer Park. Get to witness free-roaming deer up close, which you can interact with and even feed.

Then there’s the Nara National Museum, with a vast collection of Buddhist art and artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, and ceremonial objects.

Don’t forget to explore Namarachi also, a district inspired by the Edo-period architectural design. Lastly, try out local delicacies. 

There’s kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves), kuzu mochi (a type of sticky rice cake), and narazuke (pickled vegetables) that you shouldn’t miss.

Day 7: Osaka

Osaka is popular for its wide variety of food culinary offerings. It is also known as the “Kitchen of Japan,” but modern entertainment is also available in the area.

Trip to Japan Universal Studios 

Begin your day with a tour of the popular Universal Studios of Japan. You may enjoy the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Minion Park.

This is indeed a place of fun and enjoyment, especially with the thrilling rides and spectacular parades.

Osaka Castle

In the afternoon you can stroll around Osaka Castle. The castle’s main tower showcases a museum displaying artifacts related to the castle’s history and the samurai era.

Plus, you get to check out the Nishinomaru Garden around it. During springtime, cherry blossoms are everywhere, providing an enchanting feel. 

Dotonbori

A gastronomic adventure awaits at Dotonbori! Popular for its vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and shops, Dotonbori has always been the go-to place for influencers and tourists.

You can explore various dining establishments offering Osaka’s signature street food, such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki.

Dotonbori comes alive in the evening, creating a dynamic and energetic atmosphere that captures the essence of Osaka’s urban culture—a perfect way to end your visit to Japan.

Japan travel itinerary planning guide

Here are the things you should consider when planning your own itinerary:

Destination

Where are you headed to? What type of country? Would it require you to take more than 1 flight to get there? These are the things you should ask yourself when planning your itinerary.

Then do a background research of the place. Take note of the tourists destinations that you want to go to. Have a list of everything, you can reduce them as you go further with your plan.

Duration of trip

Considers your trip duration, this will determine how many places you can visit. If you travel time is limited then it’s time to cross out some of the spots you’ve listed on the previous step.

Budget

Apart from time, it’s also important to consider your budget. If you don’t have much, then you might to stay in an accommodation with a cheaper cost. From there you can map out the nearest spots that you can visit.

Fun fact: QR technology was born in Japan

QR codes were first created by a Japanese company named Denso Wave, a subsidiary of Toyota. Technically, these codes were invented for the automotive companies.

Today, the Japan-born technology is already making a name across other industries as well. You can easily create them using a free QR code generator online.

When traveling in Japan, you’ll encounter lots of QR codes around. Check out some of the Japanese QR code uses that will make Japanese visits more convenient!

Visit Japan Web’s QR Codes

When visiting Japan, you must have your own QR code that you can acquire from Visit Japan Web’s website.

This initiative of Japan government makes it easier for them to track down anyone for quarantine, immigration, and customs declarations.

Upon arriving in Japan, just show this QR code to any point of checking. Officers have to scan this before you can freely begin your stay.

Product information

Food products in Japan, whether in convenience or grocery stores, have QR code on stickers and labels packaging.  It helps shoppers check the product information, especially nutritional information.

This is easy to create using a free QR code generator and there are lots of solutions that you can also use, like PDF QR code and the URL to QR code solution.

Payment through JPQR

As part of Japan’s cashless vision plan, merchants are now required to accept cashless payment. To help merchants manage this, the Japan Association created the JPQR standard.

Merchants should print their QR code with the proper size so it’ll be easier for customers to scan. Not too big, not too small.

But how small can a QR code be? Well, it really depends on the scanning distance. But for payment purposes, a 2 x 2 inches is enough.

This allows merchants to accept payments from different financing methods like Union Pay in just a single QR code.

QR codes as artistic design

Some transportation modes in Japan, like trains, use QR code art as a design on their train floor. 

According to the photo posted by Redditor @Japesthethank, the subway car’s floor that he rode in one of his Japan travel has a QR code design. Although nonfunctional, it proves that QR codes can also be used for artistic purposes.

QR stickers to track down the elderly

Waterproof QR code stickers are distributed to households with elderly relatives in Iruma, Japan—the codes can be stuck on a fingernail or be attached to a name tag or key holder.

This program was created to reduce and/or easily resolve issues involving missing persons in the elderly age bracket. 

A QR code itself also has a monitoring capability through its QR code tracking feature. You’ll know where is someone scanning your code from.

How to create a QR code using the Free QR Code Generator

Curious about codes now? Well, here’s more: You can create your own QR code, too. Just follow the steps below:

1. Go to the Free-QR-Code-Generator website

2. Choose any QR code solution

3. Add the required data to proceed

4. Generate your QR code

5. Customize your QR code design

6. Do a QR code test to see if your code is working

7. Deploy your QR code online or print it.

A must-visit trip to the land of the rising

This Japan travel itinerary guide is perfect for short-trip budget travelers out there. In 7 days, you will get to fully immense yourself in the culture and beauty of Japan.

Remember always to know the place first, keep respect, and follow their customs. Consider also the QR code approaches and innovation this country requires to make your stay in Japan a remarkable one.

Finally, to create your own QR code copy that you can use for future events and travels, visit the Free QR Code Generator website today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good budget for Japan?

A budget traveler can set the budget range to $100 – $200 daily in Japan. But this is just a very basic estimate, and expenses really depend on your itinerary, accommodation, and food preferences.

You also have to consider airfare, so it’s always good to have some extra cash.

How many days is enough to travel in Japan?

Ideally, a 3-week stay in Japan will let you explore and experience much of Japan’s culture and life already.

But you can do a lot in a 1-2 weeks Japan travel itinerary trip, also. You just have to consider your time management skills, itinerary, and budget.