8 Day Japan Itinerary: The Best of Tokyo and Kyoto

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If you’re planning a trip to Japan and want to see the highlights in just over a week, this 8 day Japan itinerary is a great starting point. I’ve traveled all over the country, and these eight days will give you a mix of big-city energy, cultural experiences, temples and shrines, shopping, arcades, and even a few day trips. There’s a lot to fit in, so I’ve broken it down day by day, but you can adjust based on what interests you most and your pace.

Keep reading for a full 8-day Japan itinerary, including Tokyo and Kyoto, with tips on transportation, where to eat, and how to get the most out of your time in each city.

Published: February 22, 2026

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The Ultimate 8 Day Japan Itinerary

Over the next eight days, you’ll explore Tokyo and Kyoto, hitting the city’s top neighborhoods, temples, shopping spots, and cultural experiences. Each day has suggestions for what to see, eat, and do, so you can pick what interests you most while making the most of your time.

Here is the ultimate 8 day Japan itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo

Once you land in Tokyo, it’s time to start your 8 days in Japan. The most essential first stop is find a konbini, aka a 7-11, Family Mart, Lawson’s, or any nearby convenience store. They’re perfect for grabbing snacks, drinks, or even a quick breakfast to start your trip. If it’s your first time in Japan, you will be amazed at the options they have.

If you have some energy after your flight, head to Shibuya Crossing. It’s one of the busiest intersections in the world, and it’s fun to watch the crowds. Take some time to wander the neighborhood, check out the shops, and maybe snap a photo at the famous Hachiko statue. You can easily get here on public transportation.

For your first dinner in Japan, go for ramen or sushi. There are great options everywhere, from small local spots to casual chain restaurants. You can pick somewhere near Shibuya for convenience, and it’s a nice way to ease into Tokyo on your first of 8 incredible days in the city.

Day 2: Explore Some Iconic Neighborhoods

On your second day in Tokyo, spend time exploring some of the city’s most well-known neighborhoods. Akihabara is the place for electronics, anime, and gaming. The multi-story shops are packed with gadgets, collectibles, and arcades. Even if you’re not shopping, walking through the streets is an experience, with signs and displays that are unlike anywhere else.

Book a tour in Akihabara: Tokyo: Akihabara Anime, Manga, Games Walk (Arcades,Gachapon)

Harajuku is great for quirky fashion and fun street food. Take a walk down Takeshita Street to see the small shops and pick up a crepe or another treat. You can also explore Omotesando for a quieter street lined with designer shops and modern architecture.

Shinjuku is a busy area with a lot to see, and it’s worth visiting if you didn’t go on day 1. The streets around the station are full of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. For a city view, go up to the observation decks at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

Golden Gai is nearby and has narrow alleys filled with tiny bars that is one of the most iconic parts of Tokyo. Wander around until you find one with seats that catches your eye. It’s a great stop for a drink before or after dinner.

Make sure to stop by a Don Quijote store in any of these neighborhoods. They are huge, with multiple floors, and you can find snacks, souvenirs, cosmetics, and more. It’s a fun way to explore a little more of the city.

You will also find tons of options for lunch and dinner in every neighborhood, so you can stop at anytime during the day when you are hungry or need a break from walking. Remember that food is one of the best parts of any 8 day Japan itinerary!

Day 3: Museums, Temples, and Local Culture

Day 3 is all about exploring Tokyo’s cultural side. If you love museums, there are plenty to choose from depending on your interests. You could visit the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno for Japanese art and history, the Edo-Tokyo Museum for a deep dive into Tokyo’s past, or the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi for modern and contemporary art.

Book your Tokyo National Museum ticket: Tokyo National Museum Private Tour.

If you want something interactive and unique, teamLab Planets is a must. When I went, I didn’t think I’d enjoy the digital art, but it was incredible. Make sure to book timed tickets in advance because it can get crowded.

For more traditional experiences, head to Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Wander the temple grounds, check out the shopping street Nakamise-dori, and grab some small snacks or souvenirs along the way. You can also stroll around the Imperial Palace and its gardens, which are beautiful and a nice contrast to the busy city.

Book your Senso-ji Temple tour: Tokyo: Asakusa and Tokyo’s Oldest Temple Senso-ji Tour.

Stop for lunch at Tsukiji Outer Market and try fresh sushi, grilled seafood, or some of the street food vendors. It’s a great spot to walk around, sample food, and rest a bit before heading to the afternoon.

If you’re a sports fan, consider catching a baseball game. You can go to Tokyo Dome or Meiji Stadium. I went to Meiji Stadium, and it was such a fun experience. Even if you’re not a huge fan of baseball, the stadium energy and fans make it worth it.

Day 4: Dive into Interests or Take a Day Trip

Day 4 of your 8 day Japan itinerary is flexible, and it’s a chance to do more of what interests you. If you’re into anime, video games, or pop culture and haven’t gone yet, spend the day in Akihabara browsing manga, collectibles, arcades, and electronics stores.

Book a tour in Akihabara: Tokyo: Akihabara Anime, Manga, Games Walk (Arcades,Gachapon)

If theme parks are your thing, dedicate a full day to Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea. Both parks are large, with multiple themed lands, rides, shows, and parades, so it’s hard to see everything in just a few hours. Disneyland has the classic Disney experience with Sleeping Beauty Castle, parades, and family-friendly rides, while DisneySea is unique to Japan, with water-themed attractions, more thrilling rides, and incredible attention to detail in the scenery.

Book your Tokyo Disneyland ticket: Tokyo Disneyland 1-Day Passport

For something outside Tokyo, consider a day trip to Hakone, which is about 1.5–2 hours from central Tokyo by train. Hakone is famous for its hot springs, so you can soak in an onsen with views of the mountains and relax after several days of walking in Tokyo. If the weather is clear, you can catch stunning views of Mount Fuji from spots like the Hakone Ropeway or the shores of Lake Ashi. Hakone also has the Open-Air Museum, which combines modern sculptures with natural scenery. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are short hiking trails in the area that offer great viewpoints, or you could explore nearby towns for small cafes and local shops.

Book your Mount Fuji Private Tour: From Tokyo: Mount Fuji Private Tour with English Guide.

If you want a mix of museums and landmarks you didn’t hit on Day 3, revisit spots like teamLab Planets, the Edo-Tokyo Museum, or the Imperial Palace. Tokyo is huge, so make sure to factor in travel time between neighborhoods. Grab a meal when you’re hungry, stop at a Konbini, or take a break in a cozy cafe. You’ll be walking a lot, and there’s plenty of food and drink around every corner.

Day 5: Bullet Train to Kyoto

It’s time to start the second half of your 8 day Japan itinerary, and riding the bullet train (Shinkansen) to Kyoto is one of the highlights of any Japan trip. The trains are incredibly fast, smooth, and comfortable, and it’s fun to watch the countryside fly by. I’d recommend booking your tickets in advance, especially if you want a reserved seat on the faster trains like the Nozomi or Hikari. Make sure to grab a snack or bento box at the station… it’s part of the experience!

Once you arrive in Kyoto, start by exploring the city on foot around the Kawaramachi area. There are plenty of shops, arcades, and small streets to wander, so you can get a feel for the city before diving into temples and shrines on later days.

For dinner, I recommend an izakaya-style meal, where you can try multiple small dishes with drinks. There are lots of options in downtown Kyoto, from traditional Japanese pubs to modern spots serving creative twists on local cuisine. After dinner, check out Kyoto’s nightlife. I loved the karaoke spots and clubs near the city center. They’re a lot of fun if you want to experience a more local side of the city after dark.

Day 6: Dive Into Kyoto’s Temples

Today is all about exploring Kyoto’s famous temples. Start with Fushimi Inari Taisha, my personal favorite. Walking through the thousands of bright red torii gates is an unforgettable experience, and you can spend as little or as much time as you like wandering the trails. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, because even a short visit involves a fair amount of walking.

Book your Fushimi Inari Taisha tour: Kyoto: 3-Hour Fushimi Inari Shrine Hidden Hiking Tour.

Next, head to Kiyomizu-dera. The temple is set on a hillside, giving you beautiful views over Kyoto, and there are plenty of small streets nearby filled with restaurants and street food where you can grab lunch or a snack. Try some local specialties like matcha sweets or yakitori as you explore the area.

Book your Kiyomizu-dera tour: Kyoto: Guided Tour in UNESCO Site, Kiyomizu-dera.

Finish the day at Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. The shimmering gold exterior reflecting on the pond is incredible, especially in the late afternoon light. If doing all three temples in one day feels like too much, you can save either Kinkaku-ji or Kiyomizu-dera for Day 7, or if you arrive in Kyoto early on Day 5, you could start the temple tour then.

Book your Kinkaku-ji tour: Kyoto: Kinkakuji, Golden Pavilion Guided Tour.

Kyoto’s temples are stunning, but the surrounding neighborhoods are just as charming. Take your time both in and out of the temples, explore nearby streets, and enjoy one of the best days of the whole trip.

Day 7: Explore More of Kyoto and Local Experiences

Start your morning with a visit to a museum or two. Some great options include the Kyoto International Manga Museum if you love anime and manga, or the Kyoto National Museum for a look at traditional Japanese art and artifacts. Both are close to central Kyoto and easy to reach.

After your morning museums, take a short walk through the Gion district to see historic streets, traditional teahouses, and maybe spot a geisha. This is a nice, scenic stop before lunch.

For lunch, head to Nishiki Market, one of my favorite spots in Kyoto. You’ll find endless street food options lik takoyaki, grilled seafood, sweet treats.

In the afternoon, explore Kyoto’s shopping and entertainment. Check out Round One arcade for games or wander the shops around Kawaramachi and Shijo Street, where you’ll find everything from souvenirs to local crafts.

For cultural experiences, you could attend a traditional tea ceremony, or instead visit smaller nearby temples and shrines like Honen-in or Yasaka Shrine for a more relaxed cultural stop. You could also check out local galleries if museums in the morning weren’t enough.

Book your tradional tea ceremony ticket: Kyoto: Traditional Tea Ceremony since 16th century

Kyoto has a mix of food, shopping, and cultural experiences, so pick what interests you most and enjoy a flexible day exploring the city at your own pace.

Day 8: Final Day – Kyoto or Day Trip Adventures

For the last day of your 8 day Japan itinerary, you have a few options depending on your schedule and interests. If your flight is later in the day and you want to stay close, spend the day exploring Kyoto’s neighborhoods you haven’t seen yet or revisiting a favorite temple or shrine. You could do a short morning hike in the hills around Kyoto, such as Mount Daimonji or the Philosopher’s Path, both of which offer beautiful city views and a peaceful escape.

If you want a day trip, Nara is a perfect choice. It’s only about 45 minutes from Kyoto by train. You can visit Todai-ji Temple to see the giant Buddha, wander through Nara Park to see the friendly deer, and explore Kasuga Taisha Shrine. This works well if you’re heading to Osaka for your flight, as it’s on the way.

Book your Nara tour: From Kyoto: Nara Guided Tour – Todaiji Temple & Deer Park.

Other day trip options include Uji, famous for matcha tea and its temples, or even a short hike in the rural outskirts of Kyoto for nature lovers.

If your flight is from Tokyo, consider taking the shinkansen (bullet train) back, which is about 2.5–3 hours from Kyoto, giving you time for a last lunch or quick sightseeing in Tokyo if your schedule allows.

Choose whichever option fits your schedule and interests. You can make the last day as chill or adventurous as you like.

Tours to Book in Japan

Booking tours in Tokyo and Kyoto is a great way to see the highlights without worrying about navigating the city on your own. From guided temple walks to food tours, anime experiences, and day trips outside the city, there are tons of options to suit your interests. Whether you want to explore temples, try local cuisine, or see Mount Fuji up close, adding a few tours to your itinerary can help you make the most of your 8 days in Japan.

Places to Stay in Tokyo

Tokyo has accommodations for every style of traveler, and staying near a train or subway station will make sightseeing much easier.

Budget: Sakura Hotel Jimbocho – This hostel is one of my favorites and has simple, clean rooms and a friendly atmosphere. It’s close to Jimbocho Station, so you can quickly reach Akihabara, Ueno, and central Tokyo for shopping, temples, or nightlife, or stay in the neighborhood for some great food.

Mid-range: ICI HOTEL Asakusabashi – Rooms are modern and comfortable, and the hotel is a short walk from Asakusabashi Station. You’ll be near restaurants, convenience stores, and easy subway connections to Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree, and more.

Luxury: Palace Hotel Tokyo – This five-star hotel has spacious rooms with large windows overlooking the Imperial Palace or Hibiya Park. The on-site restaurants serve Japanese and international cuisine, and the location makes it easy to explore Ginza, Marunouchi, and the city’s main attractions.

Places to Stay in Kyoto

Kyoto is best explored by staying central, near train stations or the main shopping and dining streets, so you can hit the temples and nightlife without long commutes.

Budget: Piece Hostel Kyoto – A clean, modern hostel with both dorms and private rooms. It’s a short walk from Kyoto Station and convenient for exploring downtown Kyoto or hopping on trains to nearby temples and neighborhoods.

Mid-range: ibis styles Kyoto station – This hotel offers comfortable, well-lit rooms and easy access to Kyoto Station, making it simple to visit temples, markets, or take day trips to Nijo Castle or nearby towns.

Luxury: Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto – Located near Nijo Castle, this hotel has elegant rooms with a traditional Japanese feel. You can walk to Kyoto’s main streets, restaurants, and cultural sites, and the quiet setting makes it a nice retreat after a full day of sightseeing.

Tips for Traveling in Japan

Traveling in Japan can feel overwhelming at first because the cities are big and busy, but with a few tips, it’s easy to get around and enjoy your trip.

• Public Transportation: Tokyo and Kyoto both have extensive subway and train networks. In Tokyo, the JR Yamanote Line loops around major neighborhoods, while in Kyoto, buses are useful for reaching temples outside the city center. Consider getting a prepaid IC card (like Suica or Pasmo) for convenience.
• Walking: Many neighborhoods are best explored on foot. In Kyoto, areas like Gion, Kawaramachi, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove are most enjoyable when you stroll between temples, shrines, and shops.
• Timing & Crowds: Popular spots like Fushimi Inari or Shibuya Crossing can get very crowded. Arriving early or later in the afternoon can make the experience more pleasant.
• Language & Apps: English signage is common, but Google Maps or the Hyperdia app can help with train routes and schedules. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases is also helpful.
• Luggage: If you are doing day trips, use coin lockers at stations or luggage forwarding services to travel lighter between Tokyo and Kyoto.
• Cultural Etiquette: Take note of local customs, like removing shoes at temples, waiting in line for trains, and being quiet in public spaces.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available, but consider renting a pocket Wi-Fi or a local SIM card to stay connected while navigating the cities.
• Cash vs. Card: Many places accept credit cards, but smaller restaurants, street food vendors, and some temples may only take cash. ATMs at convenience stores (7-11, Lawson) usually work with international cards.
• Weather & Clothing: Bring comfortable walking shoes since you’ll be on your feet a lot. Layered clothing works best, as temperatures can vary between morning, day, and evening.
• Timing Tours: For museums, TeamLabs, or Disney tickets, book in advance whenever possible to avoid sold-out times.

Conclusion: 8 Days in Japan Itinerary

Spending eight days in Japan gives you a great mix of city life, culture, and history. From the buzzing streets of Tokyo to the temples and streets of Kyoto, there’s so much to see and do. Even though it’s a packed itinerary, you can adjust it to fit your pace and interests. I loved every part of this trip, and following these days will help you make the most of your time in Japan.

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