1-Week Itineraries in Japan: 5 Ways to Enjoy the Best

Japan, a captivating land, unfolds its distinct seasons and landscapes, showcasing a myriad of charms - from the delicate beauty of cherry blossoms to the vibrant hues of fall foliage, from ancient Shinto shrines to the enduring spirit of samurai culture. Wondering how to embrace all these facets in just 7 days? Explore the curated 1-week itineraries below for your Japan tour inspiration.

Itinerary #1: Essential Japan Around Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka

Embark on an ideal 7-day classic Japan tour, exploring the Golden Triangle of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka for the highlights of this enchanting land. Follow this sample 1-week itinerary to capture the essence and style of Japan.

Dotonbori, Osaka

Land in Tokyo as your first sight of the Kanto region since the city can represent Japan the most. From the Shinto shrine of Meiji hidden in the deep forest to the bright Kaminarimon leading to Senso-ji, from the magnificent neo-night view of Tokyo Tower and Sky Tree to the bustling streets of Akihabara can bring you to another fancy world.

After a glimpse of Mt. Fuji through the window, seize the convenience of the westbound Shinkansen for your next taste of Japanese-style elegance in the millennia-old city of Kyoto. Take a kimonoed stroll along the flagstone path leading to the crimson gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha, capture the lakeside beauty of Kinkaku-ji with its golden reflections, and visit the evergreen bamboo forest beneath the Arashiyama.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Conclude your journey in Osaka, the central city of the Kansai region, where you can satiate your appetite with a variety of street foods along the lively Dotonbori. Enjoy handy takoyaki, savor ramen from a street-side store, or indulge in a restaurant offering Kobe beef and authentic sake.

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Itinerary #2: Sample the Various Seasons with Mt. Fuji

Enhance your 7-day itinerary by including Mt. Fuji if the serene natural beauty is always your preference. Whether it's spring cherry blossoms, summer camping, or the autumn foliage, this sleepy volcano can always refresh your imagination.

Mt. Fuji with Autumn Leaves

After crossing Ginkgo Street splendidly in autumn sunlight awaits the remote Meiji Shrine preparing for your wish, while the nearby garden of Shinjuku Gyoen offers a large green land to immerse the spring flowers or autumn leaves with an outdoor picnic.

Keep your patience and excitement for the upcoming journey around Mt. Fuji. Experience a boat ride on the mirror-like Lake Kawaguchi, discover the best spots in Arakurayama Sengen Park to capture the entire mountain adorned with cherry blossoms or vibrant autumn leaves, or take your gear and catch the opportunity of the summer hike to witness the breathtaking sunrise from the summit.

View of Mt. Fuji From Arakurayama Sengen Park

Indulge in a moonlit healing hot spring (onsen) before bidding farewell to the idyllic Hakone. Savor the black eggs boiled in the natural springs of Owakudani, an active volcano valley that unveils the powerful forces beneath this appealing land.

Let the city of Kyoto be your final stop, ending your week-long itinerary with its tranquil beauty. Capture the serenity of Kiyomizu-dera as dusk paints the sky and leaves a gentle gold, explore the hidden garden of sukura and maple trees inside the haunting Nijo Castle, and immerse yourself in the ever-vibrant Arashiyama, from the lush hillside bamboo forest to the multi-colored peak, tinted pink or red depending on the season of your visit.

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Itinerary #3: Hiking in Japan: Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Trail

While a week in Japan might not suffice to absorb every detail of this enchanting country, it is ample time to complete the Nakahechi, the main route of the Kumano Kodo, the UNESCO pilgrim routes alongside the Camino de Santiago.

Takijiri-oji, the Starting Point of Nakahechi

Although this enchanting route is suitable for visits throughout the year, autumn, with its vibrant colors of fall foliage adorning the scenic forest, is particularly welcoming.

It will be a 4-5 day hiking tour, so let Osaka be your base for some preparation before the next day's journey to Takijiri-oji in Wakayama Prefecture, the gate that will lead you to the Kumano Nachi Taisha. Capture the melodic warbling of birds in the morning mist, witness the sun casting its shadow on the mossy rocks, and follow the meandering trail filled with its golden leaves into the dense forest until your first stop at Tsugizakura-oji for a delicious meal and a sweet dream.

Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Trail

The next day's destination awaits at Kumano Hongu Taisha, offering hot springs as your well-deserved reward. Continue your last 2-day journey south to the final stop, Kumano Nachi Taisha, where the striking red shrine against the silver waterfall never fails to amaze you.

Before your departure back home, return to Osaka and allow the vibrant city to inspire your final day of exploration. From a leisurely boat ride around Osaka Park to strolling through the lively night streets of Dotonbori, immerse yourself in the city's dynamic energy.

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Itinerary #4: Tranquil Towns Beneath the Japanese Alps

Besides the iconic Mt. Fuji, the Japanese Alps in the south unveil another side of Japan. Enhance your 1-week itinerary by adding the Hida region to discover these hidden treasures beneath the pristine white snow.

Triangle Style Houses in Shirakawago

Enveloped in the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo upon your arrival, with the neon lights illuminating the sleepless town of Kabukicho and the bustling Scramble Crossing in front of Shibuya 109, packed with the crowd even at midnight.

Let the scenic route of the Shinkansen train take you beyond the metropolitan skyline to the tranquil towns nestled beneath the Japanese Alps. The little Kyoto of Kanazawa will surprise you with its well-preserved wooden buildings, historic temples, and exquisite gardens like Kenroku-en, adorned with maple trees and century-old sakura trees. Shirakawago, an idyllic village to capture the lovely farmhouse in a triangular shape, and Takayama, your gateway to explore the Japan Alps through the Kamikochi Hike.

Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto

Follow the westbound Shinkansen to the city of the millennia, Kyoto, where the serene Kinkaku-ji and placid Arashiyama bamboo forest will entice you to meditate. For the final free day in Osaka, a visit to the neighboring Nara city with its adorable deer, followed by a foodie night tour back to Dotonbori, is always the perfect combination.

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Itinerary #5: Encounter Culture & History of Japan

Crimson torii gates leading to Shinto shrines, samurai swords and ninjas throwing stars behind the exhibition window, ruins left by war, and delicate preparations for flower arranging or tea ceremonies. Soak yourself in the rich culture and history of Japan with this curated 7-day itinerary.

Kimono Experience

Embark on your temple collection journey at Senso-ji, passing under the giant lantern of Kaminarimon or exploring the serene Meiji Shrine nestled in the forest. As the dazzling neon lights of Kabukicho showcase the beginning of Tokyo's nightlife, treat yourself to an authentic Kabuki show at the appealing theatre in the ancient style.

Delight in the beauty of Fushimi Inari Shrine with its fox statues, while savoring some wagashi and a cup of matcha under the falling leaves. Continue your journey with a visit to the Samurai and Ninja Museum to experience the old times of the Edo period. Don't forget to extend your stay at Gino a little longer, as the tea ceremony and flower arrangement experiences here are sure to satisfy your curiosity about Japanese culture.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

After exploring the Peace Memorial Park that memorializes the story of war, marvel at the resilience of Hiroshima as the vibrant city emerges from its traumas. Ensure you visit Itsukushima Island before sunset to capture the enchanting sight of the floating shrine glowing in the golden dusk.

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Start Your Dreamy Japan Tour With Odynovo

Hope these 1-week itineraries inspire your next Japan tour. If you're considering a 10-day, 2-week, or longer itinerary with various themes to taste the best of each season, feel free to contact us to customize your trip based on your specific duration requirements!