Epic 1-Week Japan Itinerary as Featured on Emmy-Winning Show

After two and a half long years, Japan’s borders have finally reopened! You may have already packed your suitcase and be ready to set off to the land of the rising sun. But even after all the time planning, Japan can still appear overwhelming, with so many incredible places to visit and amazing sights to see.

We planned the 1-week Japan itinerary for the 4x Emmy Award-winning TV show, Global Passport. It was the perfect overview you need to dip your shoes in this beautiful country. Adding a few tweaks to the Japan itinerary, we’ve prepared this 1-week Japan trip itinerary that covers some of the main tourist attractions.

From traditional temples and shrines to new and modern city centres, here’s how you enjoy some of the must-see attractions of Japan in 7 days!

Day 1 – Tokyo: Tsukiji Market, Sumo Lunch, Asakusa, Skytree

Tsukiji Outer Market

There’s no better way to start your Tokyo adventure than diving head-first into the sensory overload that is Tsukiji Outer Market. While the original wholesale fish auctions have moved to Toyosu, Tsukiji’s outer market remains a bustling hub of fresh seafood, street eats, and culinary treasures—an absolute playground for food lovers.

The moment you step into the market, you’re met with a mix of sizzling grills, clattering pans, and the irresistible smell of soy sauce, dashi, and fresh seafood in the air. It’s fast-paced but friendly, and despite the crowd, there’s a certain harmony in the chaos. Locals shout out daily specials, tourists snap pics of giant crabs, and steam rises from bowls of miso soup at curbside counters.

Here, it’s all about snacking your way through breakfast. Try buttery grilled scallops torched fresh in front of you, uni (sea urchin) on rice, or silky smooth tamagoyaki skewered like cake on a stick. There are also juicy tuna rice bowls, handmade onigiri, and freshly shucked oysters the size of your hand. Got a sweet tooth? Grab a matcha mochi or roasted tea soft-serve before you go.

It’s not just food, though. You’ll find Japanese kitchen knives, tea shops with delicate ceramics, pickled vegetables in colourful tubs, and dried seafood stalls that feel like stepping into a time machine. Even if you’re not buying, everything here is an experience—watching how vendors slice fish with surgical precision, seeing wasabi roots being grated fresh, or simply chatting to the locals who’ve worked these stalls for decades.

Come hungry, bring cash, and take your time soaking it all in. Tsukiji isn’t just breakfast—it’s a whole mood.

Sumo Lunch Experience in Ryogoku

Next, head over to Ryogoku, the historic district known as the heartland of sumo wrestling in Japan. This area is home to the Ryogoku Kokugikan (Sumo Hall), where Japan’s official sumo tournaments take place, along with numerous sumo stables where wrestlers live and train. Just being in the neighbourhood feels like stepping into a different side of Japanese culture—one that’s deeply rooted in tradition, discipline, and ceremony.

Here, you’ll experience a sumo demonstration and lunch hosted by former sumo wrestlers. The demo is fascinating—watch them show off signature moves and rituals, and don’t be shy about asking questions! They often share personal stories from their training days, which adds such a warm, human element to the experience.

After the performance, sit down to a hearty meal of chanko nabe, the protein-rich hotpot that fuels sumo wrestlers. It’s made with a flavourful broth, seasonal veggies, tofu, and various meats—all simmered together into the perfect comfort food. It’s delicious, filling, and surprisingly healthy. The meal is typically served with rice and side dishes, making it a satisfying introduction to sumo life.

This is a one-of-a-kind cultural experience that goes beyond just watching a match—it gives you a real feel for the lifestyle and spirit behind Japan’s national sport.

Asakusa: Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street & Yukata Experience

Next up is Asakusa, the kind of place where time seems to slow down. It’s Tokyo’s historic heart—full of traditional buildings, tiny alleyways, and old-school vibes—and it’s home to one of the most iconic temples in the country: Senso-ji.

As you walk toward the temple, you’ll pass through Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), with its massive red lantern hanging dramatically in the centre. It’s the symbol of Asakusa and one of the most photographed spots in the city. From there, you enter Nakamise Shopping Street, a colourful, energetic lane lined with local stalls selling everything from folding fans and wooden chopsticks to yukata, matcha treats, and handmade manju (sweet bean buns). Every few steps you’ll smell something new—freshly grilled senbei, sweet dango, or roasted green tea—and trust us, you’ll want to try a little bit of everything.

When you reach Senso-ji Temple itself, take a moment to soak in the atmosphere. Locals come here to pray, burn incense for good fortune, and draw omikuji (paper fortunes) that can be oddly accurate. The main hall is grand and full of quiet reverence, while the surrounding grounds are buzzing with life. You’ll see monks in traditional robes, tourists posing in kimono, and rickshaws pulling couples through the streets like it’s 1865.

If you want to go full traditional, this is the place to rent a yukata or kimono and spend some time walking the neighbourhood in style. It adds a magical layer to the whole experience—like being part of a live-action ukiyo-e painting. Plus, the photos you’ll get? Next level.

Tokyo Skytree

Cap off your first day with a trip to the spectacular Tokyo Skytree, just a short hop from Asakusa and the perfect spot to wind down with a view. At 634 metres, it’s the tallest tower in Japan and the second tallest structure in the world—and it’s impossible to miss on the skyline.

The Skytree isn’t just about height—it’s about perspective. Ride the high-speed lift up to the Tembo Deck at 350 metres for a panoramic view that stretches across the entire city. If you time it right for sunset, you’ll watch the buildings glow gold, the sky turn soft pink, and the lights of Tokyo slowly flicker on beneath you. It’s a total “wow” moment.

Feeling bold? Go even higher to the Tembo Galleria at 450 metres, where a spiralling glass walkway makes you feel like you’re literally walking in the sky. It’s a little surreal, a little nerve-wracking, and completely unforgettable.

Once you’re back down to earth, don’t miss Tokyo Solamachi, the massive shopping and dining complex at the base of the tower. It’s full of cool boutiques, local fashion, snack shops, and character-themed stores (Ghibli, Pokémon, you name it). If you’re hungry, it’s also a great place to grab dinner or dessert—there’s everything from sushi and tempura to parfaits and crepes.

Day 2 – Tokyo: Harajuku, Shibuya, Shinjuku

Harajuku

Start your second day in the electric neighbourhood of Harajuku, Tokyo’s ultimate hub of youth culture, fashion experimentation, and kawaii chaos. It’s loud, it’s colourful, it’s a bit weird—and it’s absolutely brilliant.

Begin your exploration on Takeshita Street, a narrow, candy-coloured lane packed with quirky shops, crepe stands, vintage boutiques, and some of the most extra fashion you’ll ever see. Think rainbow tutus, gothic lolita, platform shoes the size of your head—it’s the frontline of Tokyo street fashion, and you never know what you’ll find. Grab a bubble tea or one of those legendary, overstuffed Harajuku crepes (whipped cream + strawberries + cheesecake, anyone?) and just enjoy the chaos.

If you’re into thrifting or indie fashion, duck into Cat Street, a nearby backstreet lined with cooler-than-cool second-hand shops, laid-back cafés, and small local brands. It’s more chill than Takeshita but equally stylish—and way less crowded.

Need a breather from the buzz? Just a few minutes away is Meiji Jingu Shrine, a complete vibe shift into tranquillity. You’ll walk through towering torii gates and down peaceful forested paths that feel a million miles from city life. The shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, and it’s one of Tokyo’s most sacred spots. If you’re lucky, you might witness a traditional wedding procession or spot a local writing prayers on wooden ema plaques.

Shibuya

Next up: Shibuya, just one station away, and home to that one crossing you’ve seen a million times on Instagram—Shibuya Scramble. But Shibuya’s not just about the famous pedestrian crossing (though it is weirdly fun to walk across it five times in a row like everyone else)—it’s a full-on energy blast of modern Tokyo.

First things first, head up to Shibuya Sky, the observation deck at the top of the Shibuya Scramble Square building. The view from up here is wild—open-air, 360 degrees, with skyscrapers, trains, neon, and the pulse of Tokyo right beneath your feet. Come during the day for clarity or time it for golden hour and watch the city turn to glitter.

Back on ground level, check out the Hachiko Statue—a tribute to the famously loyal dog who waited at the station every day for his owner, even after he passed away. It’s a popular meeting spot and a bit of a tearjerker if you know the story.

Then dive into the Shibuya Center-Gai, a labyrinth of neon-lit streets full of ramen joints, karaoke bars, sneaker shops, arcades, and fashion stores. It’s chaotic in the best way. If you’re into shopping, this is the place: Shibuya 109 is iconic for edgy youth fashion, and Tokyu Hands is a multi-floor haven of gadgets, lifestyle stuff, and things you didn’t know you needed.

Feeling hungry? Grab a quick bite—Shibuya is ramen central, and you can’t go wrong with a bowl from Ichiran or Afuri. Or pop into a standing sushi bar for something fast, fresh, and wildly satisfying.

Shinjuku

End your day in Shinjuku, a district that truly comes alive after dark. It’s part futuristic cityscape, part gritty nightlife hub, and somehow also home to peaceful gardens and luxury hotels. It’s a lot—and it’s glorious.

Start with a visit to Omoide Yokocho (“Memory Lane”), a narrow alleyway crammed with tiny izakaya (Japanese pubs), smoky grills, and paper lanterns overhead. It’s like stepping into post-war Tokyo, full of locals chatting over skewers of yakitori and cold beer. It’s intimate, loud, and very, very Tokyo.

If you want something wild, make your way to Kabukicho, Tokyo’s infamous red-light and entertainment district. It’s neon-on-steroids, with massive LED signs, robot cafés, arcades, and host clubs. You don’t have to go deep in—just walking through it is a trip in itself. For something quirky-but-fun, stop into Don Quijote for late-night shopping—it’s open 24/7 and stacked floor-to-ceiling with absolutely everything from snacks and souvenirs to cosplay wigs and gold-plated toilets. Yes, seriously.

Feeling a bit fancy? Head up to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a free observation deck with a killer night view. Or splurge on a drink at one of the rooftop bars in the area—Park Hyatt’s New York Bar (from Lost in Translation) is iconic, if a bit pricey, but there are loads of more chill options around.

Day 3 – Tokyo: Ginza, Ueno, Akihabara

Ginza

Start the day in Ginza, Tokyo’s sleek and stylish district where high fashion meets fine dining, and every corner feels like a scene from a cinematic city dream. With its wide boulevards, gleaming designer storefronts, and artfully curated department stores, Ginza is Tokyo in luxury mode.

Even if you’re not on a shopping spree, it’s worth wandering through flagship stores like UNIQLO’s massive multi-floor mothership, Itoya for dreamy stationery, or GINZA SIX, a high-end shopping complex that doubles as an architectural marvel. There are also hidden art galleries, concept cafés, and bookstores tucked into ultra-modern buildings—it’s polished, but never soulless.

Need a bit of peace? Pop into Hibiya Park or the nearby Ginza Sony Park, a chill urban oasis with rotating art installations, pop-ups, and sometimes even live music. Or stroll to Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, a lesser-known but beautiful spot blending Indian and Buddhist architecture.

Now, for food: this is where you treat yourself. Ginza is home to some of Tokyo’s best omakase sushi spots—tiny, intimate counters where expert chefs serve a curated menu, piece by piece. If you’re ready to splurge and have a real “wow” moment, book a lunch omakase experience. It’s less pricey than dinner and still unbelievably high quality. Think buttery toro, fresh uni, and perfectly seasoned rice. Pure sushi heaven.

Not feeling sushi? You can also opt for a teppanyaki lunch, where a chef grills wagyu beef, scallops, and garlic fried rice right in front of you. Super theatrical, super tasty.

Ueno

After the sleekness of Ginza, switch gears and head to Ueno, a historic and laid-back neighbourhood full of green spaces, museums, and old-school charm. The star of the show is Ueno Park, a massive open area that’s perfect for a slow stroll. If it’s cherry blossom season? You’re in for a real treat—it’s one of Tokyo’s top hanami (flower viewing) spots.

The park is packed with culture: you’ve got the Tokyo National Museum for ancient Japanese art, the National Museum of Western Art, and the Ueno Zoo, home to adorable giant pandas. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just want to see animals being cute, there’s something here for you.

Right outside the park is Ameya-Yokocho (Ameyoko), a bustling market street under the train tracks filled with food stalls, discount shops, quirky snacks, and knock-off brands. It’s loud, messy, chaotic—and so much fun. You can grab skewers, gyoza, fresh fruit on sticks, or shop for random souvenirs like socks with sushi prints on them.

Want something hands-on? This is also a great spot to squeeze in a ramen making experience if that’s more your style. Join a local cooking studio and learn how to mix the broth, work the noodles, and build the perfect bowl from scratch. It’s casual, interactive, and you get to eat your creation—what more could you want?

Akihabara

Finish the day in Akihabara, Tokyo’s electric town and a total wonderland for fans of anime, gaming, tech, and all things nerdy. The moment you step out of the station, you’re hit with neon lights, anime billboards, and an energy that’s unlike anywhere else.

Start by exploring the multistorey electronics shops like Yodobashi Camera, where you can find everything from the latest gadgets to niche camera gear. Then dive into the world of manga and anime at shops like Animate, Mandarake, or Super Potato, which is a retro gamer’s dream—think old-school Nintendo cartridges, vintage consoles, and rare collectibles stacked to the ceiling.

If you’re curious, stop into a maid cafe—yes, it’s weird and slightly awkward, but it’s a very “only in Japan” experience. The staff dress in frilly outfits, play games with you, and draw smiley faces on your omurice with ketchup. It’s goofy, but it’s meant to be.

Got energy left? Hit up one of the mega arcades like GiGO or Taito Station—there are claw machines, rhythm games, VR pods, and floors of flashing madness. Even if you’re not a gamer, you’ll want to try your hand at winning a plushie or get a strip of purikura (photo booth) stickers as a souvenir.

On this third day of your tour, you can also join a ramen making experience that shows you the ropes of Japan’s most beloved comfort food.

In this guided, hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to build a bowl of ramen from the ground up. The experience usually starts with a quick intro to ramen history and its key components—broth, tare (flavouring sauce), noodles, toppings—and then it’s go-time. You’ll mix ingredients, ladle steaming broth, boil and shake your noodles in a bamboo strainer like a seasoned ramen chef, and carefully assemble everything just the way you want it.

You’ll also get to style your bowl with classic toppings like marinated egg, chashu pork, bamboo shoots, and seaweed. It’s fun, satisfying, and surprisingly meditative—plus, the reward is instant: a bowl of ramen made entirely by you. It’s one of those rare tourist activities that actually gives you a skill to take home (or at the very least, a newfound respect for the art of the perfect slurp).

Day 4 – Kyoto: Travel, Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji Temple

Travel to Kyoto

Start your day early and hop aboard the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Kyoto. The ride itself is an experience—smooth, fast, and super scenic. You’ll glide past countryside towns, rice fields, and if the weather’s clear, you might even spot Mount Fuji making a cameo in the distance. Grab a bento box at the station before you board (Ekiben = elite train snack), sit back, and enjoy the ride—it’s about 2.5 hours of comfy train travel that makes you feel like you’re living in a Ghibli film.

Once you arrive in Kyoto, you’ll immediately notice the shift in vibe. The pace is calmer, the buildings are lower, and the energy is more tranquil. This is a city where centuries-old shrines and wooden townhouses sit side by side with quiet cafés and narrow backstreets. Drop your bags at your accommodation (or use station lockers if you’re diving straight in), and then make your way toward Arashiyama—your first Kyoto destination.

Arashiyama

Arashiyama is one of Kyoto’s most magical neighbourhoods, tucked away in the city’s western edge and brimming with natural beauty and traditional culture. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down and just be—walk, breathe, listen, and take in the little details.

Start your visit with a stroll through the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering stalks of bamboo sway gently above you and filter the sunlight in dreamy, soft green waves. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Japan for a reason—there’s nothing quite like it. The path isn’t too long, but take it slowly; the sounds, the colours, and the sheer vertical stretch of the stalks make it feel otherworldly.

From there, you can visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a Zen garden that changes with the seasons. The temple buildings open up to wide views of meticulously raked gravel, koi-filled ponds, and mountains in the distance. It’s peaceful and still, and you’ll feel it in your bones.

Just a short walk away is the Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama’s famous river crossing with postcard-perfect views of the Hozugawa River and the surrounding hills. If you’re visiting in autumn, the whole landscape explodes in colour. If you’re there in spring, the cherry blossoms make it feel like a living painting. You can rent a bike to explore further, take a riverboat ride, or simply find a snack stand, grab a matcha soft serve, and watch the world drift by.

There are also loads of little cafes and shops in the area—some selling handmade crafts or Kyoto sweets like yatsuhashi, others offering tea with a riverside view. Arashiyama is quiet magic, the kind that stays with you long after you leave.

Kinkaku-ji

In the afternoon, head over to one of Kyoto’s most iconic and mesmerising sights: Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion. This Zen Buddhist temple is straight-up stunning—completely covered in shimmering gold leaf and set beside a still pond that reflects its brilliance like a mirror.

No matter the season—framed by cherry blossoms in spring, glowing in summer sun, surrounded by red maple leaves in autumn, or dusted with snow in winter—Kinkaku-ji looks like something out of a fantasy novel. The contrast between the gold structure and the surrounding pine trees, water, and mountains is genuinely breathtaking.

The temple itself isn’t open for walk-throughs, but the garden path around the grounds gives you multiple angles to take in the view (and snap your dreamiest Kyoto photo yet). There are small teahouses on site where you can enjoy a cup of matcha and a wagashi sweet while reflecting on how casually you’ve just seen one of Japan’s most jaw-dropping landmarks.

As you wander the grounds, don’t rush. The air here feels slower, the landscape deliberate. Kinkaku-ji isn’t just beautiful—it’s serene, the kind of place that invites you to pause and just be.

Day 5 – Kyoto: Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, Yasaka Shrine, Gion, Nishiki Market

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Start the day early at the world-famous Fushimi Inari Taisha, home of those stunning vermilion torii gates that seem to stretch on forever. This Shinto shrine, dedicated to Inari—the god of rice, prosperity, and business—is one of Kyoto’s most photographed spots, and for good reason. The endless tunnels of torii climbing the mountainside are not only beautiful, but deeply atmospheric. It honestly feels like stepping into another realm.

The lower shrine area is lively and buzzing with visitors, fox statues (Inari’s sacred messengers), and prayer rituals. But if you’re up for a bit of a walk, continue along the hiking trail up Mount Inari. The further you go, the quieter it gets—torii gates still frame your path, but the crowd thins and nature takes over. Even doing a portion of the trail gives you a little escape from the bustle and lets you take in Kyoto from a more spiritual, peaceful perspective.

Grab a quick snack from the food stalls near the entrance on your way out—grilled mochi skewers or inari sushi (rice wrapped in sweet tofu skin) hit the spot after that hike.

Kiyomizu-dera

Next, head toward Kiyomizu-dera, one of Kyoto’s most iconic temples, perched on a hillside overlooking the city. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an architectural wonder, with its massive wooden stage jutting out over a forested valley. From here, the view is unreal—especially in cherry blossom or autumn leaf seasons when the whole landscape bursts into colour.

The temple grounds are full of little surprises. Visit the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors drink from three different streams believed to bring health, success, and love. Or walk through the Jishu Shrine, dedicated to love and matchmaking. You’ll find a pair of “love stones” that you’re supposed to walk between with your eyes closed—if you make it, good fortune in love is said to follow (no pressure though).

On your way up or down, take time to explore the quaint slope called Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. These historic stone-paved streets are lined with traditional tea shops, pottery stores, and sweet shops. Stop for a matcha parfait or some yatsuhashi (Kyoto’s famous cinnamon mochi). It’s one of the most photogenic corners of the city—just try not to trip, there’s a superstition that if you fall on these steps you’ll be cursed with bad luck in love for years (😅).

Yasaka Shrine

At the bottom of the historic streets, you’ll find yourself arriving at Yasaka Shrine, one of the most important Shinto shrines in Kyoto. Known for its bright orange gates and lantern-lit stage, Yasaka is the beating heart of the city’s spiritual side. During festivals like Gion Matsuri, this place is packed—but even on a regular day, it’s buzzing with energy and tradition.

Wander through the grounds, admire the architecture, and don’t forget to stop by the shrine’s omikuji stand to draw a fortune. If you get a bad one, no worries—you can tie it to a rack nearby to leave the bad luck behind.

What’s cool about Yasaka is that it acts as a gateway between the past and present. Step out from the shrine, and you’re suddenly in…

Gion

Gion is Kyoto’s most iconic and mysterious neighbourhood, known for its old wooden machiya houses, narrow stone alleyways, and occasional glimpse of a geisha (or more accurately, a geiko or maiko) gracefully hurrying to her evening appointment. The streets here feel like time has frozen—especially Hanamikoji Street, which glows with soft lantern light as the sun sets.

You can stroll through this area slowly, taking in the traditional architecture, peek into high-end teahouses, or sip tea at a modern café in a centuries-old building. If you’re feeling adventurous, book a tea ceremony or dinner experience with a maiko performance—it’s one of the rare ways to truly understand Kyoto’s layered cultural traditions.

Even just walking through Gion in the early evening is enough to make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook. Everything here feels a bit quieter, a bit more refined, and full of stories behind every door.

Nishiki Market

Wrap up your day at Nishiki Market, the go-to spot for local food lovers and culinary curiosity. This covered, narrow street stretches for five blocks and is packed with over 100 shops and stalls selling everything from sizzling street food to delicate Japanese pickles, fresh tofu, wasabi roots, grilled skewers, traditional sweets, and the occasional mystery snack that you just have to try.

It’s not just a place to eat—it’s a place to discover. Sample crunchy baby octopus on a stick, fluffy tamagoyaki (Japanese omelette), or the best sesame mochi you’ll ever taste. Chat with shop owners, try pickled yuzu daikon, or sip a warm cup of amazake (a sweet, fermented rice drink).

If you’re into cooking, some shops sell handcrafted knives, ceramics, and spices you can take home. It’s also a great spot to pick up edible souvenirs—like matcha kits, locally brewed soy sauce, or artisanal miso.

Whether you’re full from earlier meals or just looking to graze on small bites, Nishiki is the perfect place to let your tastebuds run wild and soak in Kyoto’s more casual, everyday flavour.

Day 6 – Kyoto to Nara to Osaka: Nijo Castle, Nara Deer & Temples, Osaka’s Namba Nights

Nijo Castle

Kick off your day with one final Kyoto gem—Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa shoguns. This isn’t just any castle—it’s a place soaked in political drama, power plays, and centuries of history. The moment you step through the giant gates, you’ll feel it.

The main attraction is the Ninomaru Palace, with its beautiful sliding doors painted with tigers and pine trees, and the famous “nightingale floors” that squeak on purpose to alert guards of intruders (yes, security systems were this poetic in the Edo period). Walk through the halls imagining what it must’ve felt like to negotiate with the shogun—or just appreciate the art and craftsmanship in every room.

Outside, the Japanese gardens are stunning in any season, with stone paths, koi ponds, and sculpted pines creating a perfectly balanced Zen atmosphere. It’s a great way to soak in Kyoto’s elegance one last time before shifting gears for the rest of the day.

Nara Sightseeing

After exploring Nijo Castle, grab your things and head to Kyoto Station to catch a quick train to Nara, which is just under an hour away. It’s a smooth ride, and before you know it, you’ll be stepping into Japan’s first permanent capital—home to ancient temples, massive Buddhas, and some of the most photogenic (and cheeky) wildlife around.

Once in Nara, make a beeline for Nara Park, where over a thousand free-roaming deer wander around like they own the place. And honestly? They kind of do. These deer are considered messengers of the gods and are treated like royalty—so don’t be surprised when they come up to you expecting snacks. Grab some shika senbei (deer crackers) from a local vendor, give a polite bow, and prepare to be mobbed. It’s chaotic, cute, and totally iconic.

After you’ve made some new furry friends, head to Todai-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most significant religious sites and home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu)—a colossal 15-metre-tall bronze statue sitting inside one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. It’s jaw-dropping in scale, but also strangely calming. The sheer weight of history here is unreal, and the craftsmanship that went into building and maintaining this site over centuries is something else.

If time allows, you can also stop by Kasuga Taisha, a mystical Shinto shrine famous for its hundreds of bronze lanterns, or stroll through the nearby woods and gardens. Everything in Nara feels like it’s been dipped in serenity, with mossy stone paths and ancient trees adding to the magic.

Osaka: Namba & Shinsaibashi

After your fill of peace and deer mischief, hop back on the train for a short ride to Osaka—Japan’s kitchen, nightlife capital, and general good-time city. You’ll immediately feel the shift in pace: the crowds are louder, the buildings are brighter, and the energy is infectious.

Once you arrive, head to your hotel to check in and drop your bags, then get ready to dive straight into the heart of Osaka’s madness: Namba and Shinsaibashi.

Start your Osaka adventure in Namba, the city’s most electric district. It’s full of street food, shopping, game arcades, neon signs, and that big ol’ Glico running man sign you’ve definitely seen online. Wander through Dotonbori, Osaka’s famous canal-side street, where the smell of takoyaki (octopus balls), grilled crab legs, and buttery okonomiyaki fills the air. The streets here never really sleep, and even just walking around is an experience. People-watch, snack, take photos, repeat.

Then, cruise through Shinsaibashi-suji, a covered shopping arcade stretching over 600 metres and packed with fashion, cosmetics, streetwear, and snack shops. If Tokyo was sleek and trend-forward, Osaka’s style is a little bolder, a little louder, and full of character—and the same goes for the people.

Cap off the night however you’re feeling—karaoke, bar-hopping, or a chill izakaya tucked into a side alley with some sashimi, fried skewers, and highballs. Osaka’s nightlife is effortlessly fun and unapologetically local. It’s not about being fancy—it’s about good vibes, good food, and going with the flow.

Day 7 – Osaka: Osaka Castle, Umeda & Final City Explorations

Osaka Castle

Start your final day in Japan with a visit to the legendary Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city and one of the most famous castles in the country. Originally built in the late 1500s by Toyotomi Hideyoshi (a major figure in Japan’s samurai history), the castle has seen battles, fires, restorations—and now stands tall as a blend of history and modern museum.

Walking through Osaka Castle Park, you’ll pass wide moats, towering stone walls, and cherry blossom trees if the season’s right. It’s one of the few places where you can feel the old and new Osaka meeting right in the middle. The main tower is an eye-catching, gold-accented beauty, and inside, it’s a multi-floor museum that walks you through the castle’s wild past with armour displays, ancient scrolls, and interactive exhibits.

Head to the observation deck at the top for panoramic views of the city—it’s not the tallest view in Osaka, but it’s got that unbeatable historical height-of-power feel to it. Afterward, take some time to stroll the castle grounds or chill by the pond with a matcha latte from a nearby café. It’s a peaceful way to ease into your last day.

Umeda

From feudal fortresses to futuristic cityscapes, hop on the train and head over to Umeda, Osaka’s modern business and entertainment hub. It’s a massive tangle of stations, shopping malls, restaurants, and sleek skyscrapers—but once you get your bearings, it’s an amazing place to explore.

Your first stop? The Umeda Sky Building, one of the city’s most iconic modern landmarks. It’s got two towers joined at the top by a futuristic floating garden observatory. Ride up the glass elevator (it’s a whole experience in itself) and then take in the 360° views of Osaka’s skyline, with the Yodo River winding through the concrete jungle below. Come up here during the day for clarity or time it later in the afternoon to catch the sunset—either way, it’s pure cinematic vibes.

Back on ground level, dive into the retail madness of Grand Front Osaka, Hankyu Umeda, or HEP Five (you’ll know it by the giant red Ferris wheel attached to the building). Whether you’re picking up last-minute souvenirs, trying Japanese cosmetics, or just hunting for snacks to take home, Umeda’s shopping scene has everything—plus air con and great food courts.

Need a break? Umeda is full of stylish cafés and dessert spots. Pop into a pancake cafe, try a seasonal parfait, or chill out at a sleek Japanese kissaten (retro-style coffee shop) and just watch the city go by.

Depending on your flight plans and energy levels, you’ve got options for how to spend your final night. You could keep it local—find a cosy izakaya near your hotel and order a table full of Osaka-style snacks: kushikatsu, yakisoba, tamago tofu, and whatever sake catches your eye. Or, head back to Dotonbori one last time for a final blast of lights, laughter, and late-night eats under the neon Glico sign.

Take one last stroll along the canal, snap a few more photos, and let the city’s energy carry you into the night. Whether you’re leaving tomorrow morning or squeezing in a final konbini haul before heading to the airport, there’s something special about this last evening—the kind of quiet satisfaction that only comes from knowing you really made the most of it.

An Unforgettable 1-Week Japan Itinerary

So there we have it, a jam-packed week of exciting and interesting places to visit and things to do! From traditional, cultural events in places like Kyoto and Nara to some of the world’s leading technological districts such as Akihabara, this 1-week Japan itinerary will cover it all. You’ll explore historic temples, savour delicious cuisine, experience the bustling nightlife, and enjoy the serene beauty of Japan’s natural landscapes.

Of course, you can customise this itinerary as much as you want to match your preferences! You can even take advantage of Flip Travel Planner, where we provide our expertise and knowledge about Japan, to help you make the most out of your trip. We will recommend everything personalised and customised to you and your trip. 

To get the most out of your 1-week Japan adventure, you can also join one of our guided tours. Try the Tokyo Food & Drinks Bar Tour to explore the city’s nightlife and enjoy local drinks. Or, join the Kyoto Must-Sees and Local Gems Tour to learn about traditional Japanese culture. These tours offer unique and memorable experiences!

Whether you’re strolling through the bamboo groves of Arashiyama, shopping in the trendy streets of Harajuku, or soaking in the rejuvenating waters of Solaniwa Onsen, each day in this sample itinerary is designed to give you a taste of Japan’s rich culture and modern marvels. Get ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of Japan, as every corner of this itinerary promises a new adventure and a deeper appreciation for this beautiful country.