10-Day Japan Itinerary for First-Timers: Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka → Mt. Fuji → Nagoya

Japan itinerary first timer? Ohhh buddy, you’re in for a ride.

This 10 day Japan itinerary Tokyo Kyoto Osaka isn’t just a checklist—it’s a vibe. A literal montage of neon streets, bamboo forests, vending machine chaos, and sushi that ruins you for all future sushi. This exact Japan 10 day trip plan was my spring escape and I swear, every day felt like living inside a Ghibli movie… or an anime directed by Tarantino.

Whether you’re a Japan itinerary first timer or just really into mixing temples with arcades, here’s your day by day Japan itinerary that hits Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Mt. Fuji, Arashiyama, and Nagoya. You’ll get the food, the views, and some spicy little mistakes I made so you don’t have to.

1. Tokyo: Japan’s Electric Heartbeat

Japan itinerary first timer? Start with Tokyo—and no, you’re not ready.

I landed, dead tired, but the second I walked into Shibuya Crossing, it was like, “Okay Japan, I get it now.” Hundreds of people crossing from every direction like it’s choreographed chaos. Then there’s Akihabara, where I got sidetracked by vintage Pokémon games and forgot what daylight felt like.

Local tip: grab a Suica card ASAP or you’ll end up like me, stuck in Shinjuku station with the wrong ticket and 0 clue which exit to take. It’s a literal maze. Oh, and do not skip sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market—I wept. Silently. In public.

2. Kyoto: Where Time Slows Down

You hop on the Shinkansen from Tokyo and boom—you’re in Kyoto, where the air just… chills out. Like, spiritually.

I stayed in a ryokan—tatami mats, paper doors, the whole deal. Beautiful, yes. But my back? Not a fan. Anyway, wandering through Fushimi Inari Shrine was like stepping into another dimension. Red torii gates stretching forever. At Gion, I caught a glimpse of a real geisha and almost forgot how to breathe.

Local slang moment: people in Kyoto say “okini” (thank you) instead of “arigato.” I learned that from a grandma who saved me from ordering raw chicken. Bless her.

3. Arashiyama: Monkeys and Bamboo Groves

Technically still Kyoto, but Arashiyama deserves its own spotlight. It’s like stepping into a fairytale—Studio Ghibli level stuff.

I hit the Bamboo Grove early, before the crowds. The way the wind moves through those stalks? Legit felt like the forest was breathing. Then I climbed to Iwatayama Monkey Park, panting and sweaty, and got greeted by a monkey who looked like he wanted to rob me.

Get a matcha ice cream afterward. Even if you think matcha tastes like grass, this one might convert you.

4. Osaka: Japan’s Capital of Street Food

Next up: Osaka. This city yells. In a good way.

First stop was Dotonbori, where the signs are flashing, giant crabs move, and people are yelling about food. Ate takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancake thing) right on the street—burnt my mouth but worth it.

Funny thing—I thought kushikatsu was dessert. Spoiler: it’s deep-fried skewered meat. Still good, just not cake. Local slang? “Maido!” It means “thanks for coming” and I heard it every 5 minutes in the market.

5. Mount Fuji: The Iconic Peak

Okay, let’s talk Mount Fuji. No, I didn’t climb it. I’m not that ambitious. But viewing it? Whole spiritual experience.

Kawaguchiko is the place for those dreamy, Instagram-level shots. I waited hours for clouds to clear and—bam—there she was, in full glory. Then hit up Chureito Pagoda for that classic red-pagoda-plus-Fuji combo. Felt like a postcard.

Bonus: went to Hakone and took a boat shaped like a pirate ship. No context needed. Japan’s wild like that.

6. Nagoya: A Little-Known Treasure

So underrated. Everyone skips Nagoya, but I’m telling you—it’s chill, weirdly futuristic, and full of gems.

Went to Nagoya Castle, which was rebuilt but still packs serious samurai vibes. Then the Toyota Museum had me geeking out over how looms turned into luxury cars. And Osu Shopping Street? It’s like Harajuku’s eccentric cousin. Bought a vintage Godzilla figurine. No regrets.

Best meal of the trip? Hitsu-mabushi (grilled eel rice). Sounds scary. Tastes divine. Do not sleep on Nagoya.

Conclusion: How Should This Be Planned?

Travel Tips for the Japan Itinerary First Timer

• JR Pass: Buy it before you land. Covers your bullet trains and saves you major yen.
• Cash Rules: Japan’s card game is weird. Bring cash. Use 7-Eleven ATMs—they work with foreign cards.
• Get Lost on Purpose: Honestly, my best memories came from taking the wrong street. Or getting off one station too early.

Oh, and for the love of ramen, don’t plan every second. Leave space to wander, nap, or impulsively chase a shrine you saw on someone’s Instagram story.

Final Words on the Best Japan Itinerary 10 Days

If you’re still wondering if this is the best Japan itinerary 10 days, lemme tell you—I came back with 3kg of snacks, 1 broken suitcase, and a heart full of moments I didn’t even plan for. That’s what makes this a solid Japan 10 day travel plan 2025.

And yeah, I totally cried a little at the airport. Not just from the jet lag.

So—Japan itinerary first timer—ready to hop on this wild, emotional, scenic AF train ride?

Drop your wildest Japan moment in the comments. Or just say hi. I’m probably planning my next trip already. 🇯🇵