Looking for a budget-friendly Tokyo Osaka itinerary good for 10 days? Well, you’re in the right place! This blog allows you to travel more but spends less because I will be sharing my itinerary tips and train discount pass which saves you a lot of money and maximize your stay here in Japan.
This 10-day itinerary exploring Tokyo, Niigata, Shizuoka, Nagano, Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto will leave you awe-struck. Over the entire trip, you will be amazed by the beauty of Japanese culture, eat authentic ramen, travel like a local, and discover the history and traditions that have shaped this captivating country.
Whether you’re a history guy, a foodie, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique adventure, this itinerary promises to be an exciting journey through the best of Japan.
Rainbow bridge in Odaiba is one of the tourist destinations when you visit Tokyo. For a unique experience, I deliberately captured a picture of it without lights, so you can personally witness its exquisite beauty and romantic ambiance upon arrival.
So pack your bags, prepare your camera, put on your comfortable walking shoes, and let’s start on a 10-day journey!
For your accommodation, I highly suggest Asakusa Ryokan Toukaisou located at Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo. Price starts at ¥ 4300/person per night. It is the cheapest Ryokan (Japanese Style hotel) you will find in Tokyo.
Why stay in Ryokan?
Staying in a Ryokan can be a unique and enriching experience, especially if you’re visiting Japan or a place where Ryokans are prevalent. Here are some reasons why people choose to stay in a Ryokan:
Cultural immersion: Ryokans offer a deep immersion into traditional Japanese culture. From the architecture and decor to the traditional tatami-matted rooms, sliding doors, and Japanese-style futon beds, staying in a Ryokan allows you to experience the authentic way of Japanese living.
Hotels nearby tourist spots
Senso-ji
- Considered as oldest Temple in Tokyo
- Famous Kaminarimon also found here
- 10 min walk
Tokyo Skytree
- Tallest building in Japan
- 20 min (via Train)
Akihabara
- Gadget and Anime District of Japan
- 10 min (via Train)
Ginza
- Luxury shop district. Stores like LV, Prada, Gucci etc.
- 30 min (via train)
- Zoo, National Museum of Nature and Science
- 10 min (via Train)
Shibuya and Harajuku
- Hachiko Statue, Shibuya Scramble, Shibuya Sky (perfect for romantic date)
- 40 min (via Train)
Tokyo Tower
- Tokyo’s famous landmark
- 40 min (via Train)
Tokyo Disney Resort
- Disneyland and Disneysea (only in Japan)
- 50 min (via train)
Tokyo Osaka Itinerary
You may follow everything I write in my Tokyo Osaka itinerary but you may also add or delete tourist spot depending on your preference.
Download excel format here or click button below to download PDF File
Day 1 : Arrive in Japan
Check-In time: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Upon arriving at the hotel before the designated check-in time, you can conveniently store your luggage in the lobby from 8:00 AM onwards. Take this opportunity to explore nearby tourist attractions and restaurants while waiting for your check-in time.
One must-visit site in Tokyo is Senso-ji, the oldest Buddhist temple in the city, attracting thousands of tourists every year. The temple’s entrance, known as Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), is a famous landmark. As you make your way to the temple, you’ll come across various souvenir shops and food stalls. Remember that the place is sacred, so maintaining silence and reverence is essential.
Day one is getting familiar with the place and walking around nearby FREE tourist spots like Ueno Park and Sumida River.
Day 2: Explore Tokyo’s suburbs- Niigata Prefecture
You will buy a JR Tokyo WidePass for a three day trip to explore the suburbs of tokyo.
For a price of ¥15, 000, you can now enjoy unlimited train rides including shinkansen (bullet train) for three consecutive days. For complete guide of day 2, day 3 and day 4, please refer to my previous blog .
Places to explore:
- Yuzawa kogen Mountain
- Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel
- Ponshukan (wine)
Day 3: Explore Tokyo’s suburbs- Shizuoka Prefecture
Places to explore:
- Perry monument
- Kadowakicape lighthouse
- Jogazaki Coast
Day 4: Explore Tokyo’s suburbs- Nagano Prefecture
Places to explore:
- Komoro Castle Ruins
- Shiraito Falls
- Odaiba: Gundam Unicorn, Statue of Liberty, rainbow bridge
Day 5: Go to Osaka
Day 6 and Day 7: Explore Osaka
You need to buy an Osaka Amazing pass for two days. For a price of ¥ 3600 you can now enjoy unlimited rides and free entrance to popular destinations.
Places to explore:
- Osaka castle
- Sta. Maria Cruise
- Tempozan Ferris wheel
- Cosmo Tower
- Shinsekai
- Tsutenkaku Tower
- Glico Store – Inside Tsutenkaku tower
- Tennoji zoo
- Umeda Sky Building
- Hep five Ferris wheel
- Dotonbori
Day 8: Nara Walk day
Places to explore:
1. Central Golden Hall
2. kofukuji Temple main hall
3. Eastern golden Hall
4. National Treasure Museum
5. Nandaimon Gate
6. Daibustuden hall
7. Nigatsudo Scenic Hall way
8. Nigatsudo Hall
9. Nara Park
Day 9: Kyoto
Places to explore:
- Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya Starbucks
- Kiyomizudera Temple
- Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
- Fushimi Inari Shrine
Day 10: Leave Japan (Osaka Airport)
Conclusion
I have drafted everything I know that will help you during your vacation here in Japan and all you need to do is to download my tokyo osaka itinerary that I prepared.
As I always mention, it is important to plan ahead for your trip so that you can maximize your time, effort, and money. Rest well for the entire night to gain energy during the day. Take vitamins to boost your energy and wear your most comfortable shoes.
Maybe you’re wondering why I didn’t include the top tourist destination in Japan like Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo Disney Sea and Universal Studio Japan. Worry no more because I also have a separate 10-days Tokyo Osaka itinerary which includes these theme parks.
Yes, I have tons of beautiful tourist spots that I forgot to include in my Tokyo Osaka Itinerary. Please help me remember by commenting down below.
