Two weeks is the sweet spot for a first trip to Japan. This route follows the Tokaido corridor, which is served by the Shinkansen bullet train, so travel days are short and comfortable.
Days 1–5: Tokyo
Tokyo deserves at least four nights. Mix the neon of Shinjuku and Shibuya with old Tokyo in Asakusa around Sensō-ji, the gardens of the Imperial Palace, and food halls in Ginza. Take a day trip to Nikko or Kamakura.
Days 6–7: Hakone and Mount Fuji
Spend a night in a ryokan with an onsen in Hakone, or around the Fuji Five Lakes for views of Mount Fuji. Clear mornings give the best chance of seeing the peak.
Days 8–11: Kyoto
In Kyoto, go early to Fushimi Inari and Arashiyama's bamboo grove, visit Kinkaku-ji, and wander Gion at dusk. Nara, with its deer and giant Buddha, is an easy half-day trip.
Days 12–14: Osaka
End in Osaka for street food in Dotonbori, Osaka Castle and a possible day trip to Himeji or Hiroshima and Miyajima. Kansai International Airport is close, so it is a convenient finish.
Is the Japan Rail Pass worth it?
After big price rises, the national JR Pass rarely pays off for a simple Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka trip. Add up single tickets first; regional passes can be better value. Load an IC card such as Suica for local trains and metro.
Where to stay
Business hotels are good value, and a night or two in a ryokan is a highlight. See our hotel tips for the best neighbourhoods in each city.
Prices, entry rules and opening hours change; always check official sources before you travel. This article contains affiliate links, see our disclosure.
