With a solid 7 days in Japan itinerary, you can cover some unforgettable sights Japan has to offer – from ancient cities turned busy metropolis, modern history that is important to witness and quirky activities that embody the unique Japanese culture.
While 7 days in Japan will never be enough to see it all (you’ll barely scratch the surface) of what this country has to offer, you can experience plenty with this 7 days in Japan itinerary.
For this 7 day travel itinerary of Japan, I will cover a number of cities, and give a few extra tips on what extras to add to your Japan 7 day itinerary if you have a little more time in each city.
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Rundown of this 7 day Japan itinerary
These 7 days in Japan will focus on cities on Honshu, Japan’s main island.
Day 1-3 exploring Tokyo – learn about the ancient art of Samurai, eat delicious ramen, zoom around the streets of Tokyo in a go-kart, and plenty more.
Day 4-5 exploring Kyoto – eat flaming ramen (yes, real fire), visit a number of ancient temples and shrines, along with some beautiful views
Day 6-7 Osaka or Hiroshima – I had great difficulty in choosing which third city to cover with this Japan 7 day itinerary, so I decided to include both, and let you decide which one suits you more. Osaka with it’s delicious food and unique sky garden, or Hiroshima with one of the most difficult places to visit (but there are very important lessons to be learned) along with beautiful gardens.
As you can probably tell, there is a lot of ground to cover with this fast-paced, 7 day travel itinerary of Japan – so we better get into it!
Day 1 to 3 – Tokyo
Tokyo, formally known as Edo, has been the capital of Japan since 1868 when it moved from Kyoto.
Considered the most populated city in the entire world, Tokyo is home to many cultural shocks of Japan – the busy crowds lining every street, for example.
From free night city-scape sights, to Effiel Tower look-alike – let’s explore Tokyo together – the first stop with 7 days in Japan itinerary.
If you have extra time, check out 7 days in Tokyo itinerary – a much deeper look into what there is to do in Japan’s capital city.
How to get from Narita airport to Tokyo
Narita Airport is where international flights will land. Haneda Airport is closer to downtown Tokyo, but almost exclusively handles domestic flights.
Japan’s public transport is on point, meaning getting from Narita Airport into Tokyo is simple and there a number of routes to choose from. These are the common routes from Narita Airport to Tokyo Station.
- Shuttle bus to Tokyo Station – This shuttle leaves roughly 3 times every hour and costs 1000 Yen ($9 USD) for a one way trip in regular hours (up to 2000 Yen ($18 USD) is late at night/early morning. This option takes around 1.5 hours.
- JR Narita Express is a quicker trip, taking only 60 minutes, but costs 3000 Yen, there are departures every 30 minutes and you can buy a round trip ticket for 4000 Yen if returning in a 2 week period.
- There are plenty of options to book your transfer from Narita airport to Tokyo online and in advance – from buses, trains to private shuttles, most at pretty decent prices. You can also book the reverse journey.
Day 1 in Japan
Tokyo Tower
With your first of 7 days in Japan, why not start with one of Tokyo’s most well-known icons?
Tokyo Tower stands 332.9 meters high in the center of Tokyo, and painted a bright orange due to Japan’s air regulations. Tokyo Tower also glows a bright orange during the night time.
The closest station to Tokyo Tower is Akabanebashi Station on the Oedo Line. You can visit the top floor of this Effiel Tower lookalike costs 800¥ to visit the main observation deck and is open from 9am to 11pm.
You can book your Tokyo Tower ticket in advance and skip the line almost completely.
Samurai Museum
Next, we jump over to a Shinjuku Museum on the Samurai in Tokyo. These warriors rose to the highest-ranking social caste in Japan during much of the Edo Period (1603 – 1867).
As you would expect, such a powerful community had a massive impact on the course of Japan and it’s people.
Apart from relics of a different era, including swords, armor and even guns, there’s a lot more to show as you stroll the displays. Included in the 1,500¥ price tag you get a free guided tour that dives deep into the history of each piece.
You can get to Tokyo’s Samurai Museum by a short walk from Shinjuku Station East Exit.
Meiji Jingu Shrine
Meiji Jingu Shrine is located in the Harajuku Suburb of Tokyo, a little south of Shinjuku. Take the Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station and you’re right there.
Meiji Jingu Shrine is located in a lush green park and gated by massive wooden torii gates. The shrine was completed in 1920 and dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Emperoress Shoken.
A beautiful and relaxing stroll leads to Meiji Shrine, which is free to enter and open from sunrise to sunset.
Mari-Kart around the streets of Tokyo
One of the most unique things to do in Tokyo, maybe all of Japan is riding go-karts through the busy streets of the world’s most populated city.
Dressing up as your favorite character from Mario Kart (or a selection of other cartoons and games), strap in and zoom around the streets of Tokyo.
There are multiple shops in Tokyo that different courses begin from, and if you can, I suggest taking this guided tour via go-kart around Tokyo during the night – crossing the Rainbow Bridge (yes, that is really a bridge in Tokyo) and seeing the Tokyo Tower all lit up is a beautiful sight.
This popular activity in Tokyo often books out, you can reserve your kart in advance.
Day 2 in Japan
Michelin Star Tsuta Ramen
The very first Michelin Star Ramen Restaurant in the world definitely earns it’s right to hold one, out of a possible three stars.
There is a reason why this is the first thing for day 2 in Tokyo, it isn’t easy to get a spot. This tiny restaurant only serves around 70 bowls a day, meaning spots are very limited. Lines can start as early as 7am.
You want to get there early to reserve your spot for later in the day. For example, I got to Tsuta Japanese Soba Noodle Restaurant at 7:30am and reserved a place for the 11am time slot.
If you want to make sure you try Michelin Star Ramen, and it is well worth the hassle, you need to get there early. Tsuta is a short walk from Sugamo Station on the Mita and Yamanote Lines.
Imperial Palace of Tokyo
Sitting on the former location of Edo Castle, Tokyo’s Imperial Palace was once the seat of the Tokugawa Shogun, the ruler of Japan from 1603 to 1867.
Rebuilt shortly after being DESTROYED IN world War II, you can get to the Imperial Palace by a short 10-minute walk from Tokyo station.
While the Imperial Palace East Gardens are open to the public, the Inner Grounds require a guided tour and reservations can be made online.
Sensoji Temple
A 15-minute ride from Tokyo Station, Sensoji Temple is the city’s oldest temple. Walking through the multiple gates, including Hozoman, the ornate main gate of the complex.
There is a small shopping street with some stores dating back 100 years and a number of other stores selling small souvenirs.
Head to Asakusa Station and Sensoji Temple is a very short walk away.
Day 3 in Japan
Sumida Park
Also a short walk from Asakusa Station, Sumida Park is known for firework displays and cherry blossom blooming. Even if you’re missing cherry blossom season in Tokyo (March 25th to April 2nd), you’ll still be treated to a beautiful display along both banks of the Sumida River.
Tokyo Skytree
In the distance from Sumida Park, you can see Tokyo Skytree, the world’s tallest tower, and 2nd highest building in the world.
It’s pretty obvious Tokyo Skytree gives a sweeping view of Tokyo and its surroundings. Standing at 634m tall, the thin and pointy tower is hard to miss.
There are two observation decks, costing 1030¥ and 2060¥ to visit. Tokyo Skytree Skytree Station on the Tobu Skytree Line Is the easiest and quickest point of access.
Admission tickets to the Tokyo Skytower can be brought at the tower itself, or in advance online.
Edo-Tokyo Museum
If you want to learn about the history of Tokyo and Japan itself, the Edo-Tokyo Museum is the place to visit.
Known as Edo until 1869, Tokyo has grown into an immense city, home to an estimated 14 million people.
This museum houses a number of exhibits, many of them interactive and teaches about the olden days of Tokyo and more recent history as well.
You can get a guided tour from 10am to 3pm to dive deeper into the history of this diverse and wonderful city.
The Edo-Tokyo Museum is around a 5minute walk from Ryogoku Station, costs 600¥ to enter and is open from 9:30am to 5:30pm.
Metropolitan Government Building
The Metropolitan Government Building gives one of the best views over the city of Tokyo. Plus, it is completely free to get to the observation deck 202 meters about the ground.
This popular viewpoint in Shinjuku is my personal favorite at night time, when the skyline of Tokyo lights up as far as the horizon stretches out.
Tokyo’s Metropolitan Government Building has two identical towers, while the north tower is more popular for night views as it stays open later. On clear and sunny days, Mt Fuji can be seen off in the distance.
Tocho-Mae Station on the Oedo Subway Line is located in the Metropolitan Government Building basement.
Extra things to do in Tokyo
Such a large and diverse city means there are plenty of extra things to do in Tokyo. If you have a little extra time in Tokyo, or want to swap something out from above, here are three other great things to do in Tokyo.
If it’s your first time visiting, you can find a list of Japan travel tips here.
Nihombashi Tourist Information Center
This isn’t a popular tourist spot other than to get information about the area. But if you’re looking for something to do, perhaps on a rainy day in Tokyo, Nihombashi Tourist Information Center offers a number of classes.
A short walk from Tokyo Station, a range of cultural activities is on offer, from origami, watch a Geisha Performance or join in on a tea ceremony.
Nihombashi Tourist Information Center is open from 10am to 9pm.
Kabuki Performance
In 2005, this classical dance/drama performance was designated an intangible UNESCO heritage. Witnessing this performance in Tokyo is easy and can be very affordable.
While Kabuki theatre will usually stretch on for hours, you can get a cheap, standing ticket for just one of the acts, which lasts around 40-50 minutes. You can pick up these cheap tickets for as little as 500¥.
Kabuki-za Theatre is in the Ginza District of Tokyo, you can reach it directly by exit 3 of Higashi Ginza Station on Hibiya and Asakusa Lines.
Pachinko
Pachinko is one of those games in Japan that I never really understood. Sure the idea was simple, you put the little stainless steel balls into the top of the incredibly loud machine, and it makes it’s way to a hole in the bottom, but I rarely could be 100% on the overall goal of the game.
I’ll be honest, it’s not my first thing to do in Tokyo, but it was fun for a one-off.
Be warned though, smoking is allowed in most of these buildings, and there can be hundreds of these loud (and I do mean loud) machines going off at once.
Day 4 to 5 – Kyoto
While the former capital of Japan has moved to Tokyo, many believe Kyoto still holds the rights to the title. As the Shogun rules the country, the capital remained in Kyoto from 794 to 1868.
Kyoto is known for a number of sights, including glistening Buddhist temples, tranquil gardens and Geisha – a traditional form of female dance performer.
While 2 days in Kyoto isn’t enough to cover this ancient historical site, you will be able to get a feel for what makes Kyoto a memorable visit with 7 days in Japan.
How to get from Tokyo to Kyoto
There is a sizable distance from Tokyo to Kyoto – 457km, which if you were driving, would take you 5.5 hours. Luckily, as this is quite a jam-packed 7 day itinerary of Japan, there are a couple of faster ways to get from Tokyo to Kyoto:
- Shinkansen – The famous high speed train in Japan. Capable of a maximum operating speed of 320km/ph (that is insanely fast!), the shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto takes roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes. An unreserved ticket costs around 16,900 Yen ($156 USD).
- Another option is to fly from Tokyo to Kyoto. Taking just over an hour, you can catch a budget flight from Tokyo to Kyoto for as little as 6,000 Yen ($56 USD). Peach and Jetstar are two common budget airlines that make this trip daily.
Day 4 in Japan
Nijo Castle
Built as the residence of the first Edo Period shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1603 and was added to, including the 5-story castle keep, 23 years later.
Before being donated to the city as a historic site to the public, Nijo Castle grounds were used as an Imperial Palace. It is a beautiful and relaxing stroll around the gardens of Nijo Castle and its numerous buildings within the complex.
Keep an eye out for the nightingale floors – that squeak intentionally to warn of ninjas sleuthing around the halls.
It costs 600 Yen (¥) to get into the castle grounds and you can get to Nijo Castle by Tozai Line to Nijojo-Mae Station.
Menbakaichidai Fire Ramen
Menbakaichidai Fire Ramen is just down the road from Nijo Castle and opens at 11am.
Don’t be mistaken, when I say “fire ramen” that doesn’t just mean spicy, that means your dish of delicious ramen is lit on fire, and engulfed in a fireball over a meter high.
This caramelizes the green onions and releases a fresh and tasty side to ramen. This is a one of a kind experience in Kyoto and if you enjoy unique ramen, is a must.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
After fire destroyed the Kyoto Imperial Palace in 1855, this historic building housed the Imperial Family until 1868. Located inside Kyoto Imperial Park is a number of other sights to explore, such as Sento Imperial Palace.
While none of the buildings can be entered, you no longer need a guided tour to visit the gardens and the complex itself. You can get a range of guided tours for extra information, but it isn’t necessary anymore.
You can walk and ride a bike along the gravel paths of Kyoto Imperial Palace, and is free to enter. You can visit from 9am to 4/5pm depending on the time of year. From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Line and get off at Marutamachi or Imadegawa Station.
Day 5
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Dating earlier than 794, when Kyoto became the nationals capital, Fushimi Inari Shrine is the most important for those dedicated to the Shinto God of Rice, Inari.
Walking through thousands of bright torii gates leads you to a stunning viewpoint and a number of small shrines along the way. These torii gates are donated by individuals and companies, costing at least 400,000¥ each.
The hike to the summit of Mt Inari takes 2-3 hours return trip and gives a great view over the city of Kyoto.
Fushimi Inari Shrine is always open, free to enter and easily reach by the JR Inari Station on the Nara Line.
Toji Temple
One of Kyoto’s many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Toji Temple, or “east temple”, was built in the late 700s.
Kondo and Kodo Hall, along with the temples 5-storied pagoda are the complex’s biggest drawcards. You have to be a little lucky to be able to enter the 5 story tower as the hours do change.
Toji Temple costs 500¥ to enter, 800¥ if the pagoda is able to be entered that day. You can reach the complex by a 5-minute walk from Toji Station on the Kintetsu Kyoto Line and opening hours are 8am to 5pm.
Kinkaku-ji Temple
One of Kyoto’s most famous temples, as it is covered in a glimmering golden shine. This Zen Temple has been destroyed by fire multiple times throughout history, during the Onin Civil War that saw the wide destruction of Kyoto, and by a novice monk in 1950. What you see today is a 1955 construction.
There is a small teahouse in the complex serving match tea and sweet items in a beautiful setting. The whole walk is quite stunning, however, this is one of the most visited spots in all of Kyoto, so prepare for crowds.
Kinkaku-ji Temple is a little harder to access, being a 40-minute bus ride from KYOTO station on bus 101 or 205. 9am to 5pm are the opening times and admission is 400¥.
Extra things to do in Kyoto
Ginkaku-ji Temple
Modeled after Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavillion, Ginkaku-ji is the Silver Pavilion. While this is also a Zen Buddhist Temple, it isn’t as silver as Kinkaku-ji is golden. The gardens surrounding this ex-shogun retirement villa is a peaceful walk, although it is quite a popular tourist location.
Along with a gorgeous moss garden, small trickling rivers, and a dry sand display, it’s just the short loop around the complex grounds that were the most memorable to me.
From Kyoto Station, Ginkaku-ji Temple can be reached by bus 5, 17 or 100 and takes around 35 minutes. Admission costs 500¥ and is open from 8:30am to 5pm.
Geisha Performance
Highly skilled entertainers, a Geisha Performance is another great thing to do in Kyoto. It takes 5 years for a Maiko (a Geisha in training) to become a Geiko, and a fully-fledged Geisha.
Kyoto, and the Gion District, is well known for its Geisha history. There are 5 annual performances and tourist information outlets around Kyoto are great places to get up to date information about viewing a Geisha performance.
There are shorter and much cheaper ways to see Geisha and Maiko in Kyoto. These are catered to tourists, but are still culturally rich and a great experience.
Day 6 to 7 – Hiroshima or Osaka?
This part of the 7 days in Japan itinerary is where you need to choose between two memorable cities in Japan – Hiroshima or Osaka.
Whichever you choose to round out your 7 days in Japan, you’ll have plenty to see and do in your last 2 days in the country.
Hiroshima
Hiroshima is well known for the destruction of the atomic bomb dropped by the U.S. Military on August 6th, 1945, causing incredible destruction and overwhelming fatalities. Walking around Hiroshima, you’ll find this is a city devoted to education and peace. You can also find a number of sites with little to do with the destruction of World War II – although many sights around will have stories about that day ingrained into human history.
How to get from Kyoto to Hiroshima
Hiroshima is 360km away from Kyoto, and if you were to drive it, it would take around 4.5 hours. Once again, Japan’s transport makes this trip much shorter.
- The high-speed shinkansen takes around 2.5 hours to get from Kyoto to Hiroshima. One way, you’re looking at around 10,500 Yen for a lightning-fast train ride to Hiroshima – it is also a pretty cool experience.
- Alternatively, you can catch a flight from Kyoto to Hiroshima. Airtime, this option takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, and costs roughly $120 USD.
Day 6 in Japan
Hiroshima Peace Park and Rest House
As you may be able to imagine, Hiroshima is home to many places promoting peace, as well as a grim, but an important history lesson.
As you stroll around the centrally located Peace Park, you’ll see a number of gardens and monuments, including the Peace Bell and The Rest House – the location where the only survivor in the hypocenter survived. You can also buy refreshments and souvenirs if you’d like.
Hypocenter Location Plaque
This monument marks the location where the A-bomb detonated, 600 meters above the ground.
There isn’t too much to see here, other than the plaque itself, but it is a good place to stop and reflect on the damage caused by a single explosion.
To learn more about the bomb, there are a couple of stops coming up in this 7-day itinerary of Japan that are full of more information than you can most likely take in.
Nagata-ya Okonomiyaki
For lunch, just across the road is a Hiroshima specialty – Okonomiyaki. This pancake of fried cabbage and a host of other ingredients (the menus is huge) is one of the best meals I had in Japan.
A-Bomb Dome
Right along the river, is probably the most iconic image of Hiroshima. This building, known as Genbaku, or Atomic Bomb Dome, is the only surviving building near the hypocenter of Hiroshima.
Deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, as it is officially known, is well spotted by the iron framework of the dome-shaped roof.
The A-Bomb Dome isn’t allowed to be entered, mainly due to the fragile state of the structure, but it is a must-visit when around Hiroshima.
Day 7 in Japan
Hiroshima Peace Museum
Hiroshima Peace Museum is one of the hardest places to visit in the city. The number of displays range from glass fused together by heat, scorched roof tiles, twisted steel from the explosive blast, personal items from victims and the infamous “shadow” stained on stairs by a human shadow.
If you can, I highly suggest a guided tour of the Hiroshima Peace Museum. The reason why this is first up is that it gets incredibly busy. So bad that there is a slow-moving line throughout the entire museum.
It is a very difficult and moving place in Hiroshima to visit, but it also holds an important lesson to prevent this from ever happening again.
Admission is 200¥ and is open 8:30am to 5/6pm (depending on the time of year you’re visiting).
National Peace Memorial Hall
The National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims is a moving tribute to those that lost their lives at 8:15am, August 6th, 1945.
The main feature is a panoramic wall display displaying the city from the hypocenter. Made up of 140,000 tiles, it is the estimated number of lives to have been lost due to the bomb (70,000 died instantly, while 70,000 more succumbed to a number of issues resulting from the bomb).
You can also read a huge number of witness accounts and survival stories, as well as tributes to those that lost their lives in the bombing of Hiroshima.
Hiroshima Peace Pagoda
After such a heavy Day of Tough information to take in, I suggest getting out into nature for a short hike in Hiroshima.
Hiroshima Peace Pagoda
Extra things to do in Hiroshima
If you have a little extra time, here are some extra things to do in Hiroshima.
Hiroshima Castle
Hiroshima Castle was originally built in 1589 and served as the economic and physical center of the city.
As with most of the city, the atomic bomb blast in 1945 destroyed the castle and was rebuilt. Inside the Castle complex are a number of reconstructed buildings as well as some ruins, along with a shrine.
Hiroshima Castle, also known as Carp Castle is a nice and relaxing walk around the water moat.
A 10-minute walk from Kamiyacho-nishi and while the keep costs 370¥ entrance fee, the grounds themselves are free to enter.
Shukkeien Garden
Not far from Hiroshima Castle, Shukkeien Gardens is one of the most peaceful walks you can have in Hiroshima.
The beautiful gardens of Shukkeien represent a number of different landscapes, valleys, mountains and forests are all depicted in a mini version as you stroll around the peaceful lake.
Make sure to check out the arched bridge, leading you over a heap of Karp that all rise to the surface of the water with their gaping mouths.
The stunning Shukkeien Garden is a 15-minute walk from Hiroshima Station, costing 260¥ to get in and open 9am to 6pm.
Itsukushima Island
Less than an hour outside the city of Hiroshima sits the island of Itsukushima. This popular island is also known as Miyajima Island and is home to the famous floating torii gate.
While there are plenty of day-trippers to Itsukushima Island, the area becomes much more peaceful at night, along with the deer that are well accustomed to people, it’s a very tranquil place to explore in the evening.
Itsukushima Shrine and the floating torii gates aren’t the only attractions on the island, with a number of walking trails, including to the island’s tallest peak, Mount Misen.
You can get to Itsukushima Island by direct ferry from Hiroshima Peace Park, or catch a train to Miyajima-guchi and ferry from there.
Osaka
Osaka is a bustling city in Japan that has embraced modern architecture and diverse nightlife while retaining its ancient heritage with Shinto Shrines and Geisha Performances. Osaka Castle is a prime example of 16th-century Shogunate rule and even though it has been reconstructed multiple times throughout history, holds much of its charm. Osaka is also known for its food – Kuromon Market is a perfect example of the culinary delights Osaka has to offer.
How to get from Kyoto to Osaka
If you would rather explore the much closer Osaka, you’re looking at only a 55-minute drive for the 55-kilometer journey from Kyoto to Osaka. However, if you’re into trains, there are plenty of options to bridge this small gap, some of the best options are:
- Kyoto to Osaka shinkansen is one of the shortest fares available in all of Japan. To cover this short distance takes only 15 minutes and costs 1420 Yen – pretty cheap for a memorable train ride.
- JR Kyoto Line is a much cheaper option at 560 Yen and takes half an hour to get from Kyoto Station to Osaka Station.
Seeing Kyoto to Osaka is such a short distance, buses and flights don’t really beat our trains, wether the shinkansen or regular JR Line trains.
Day 6
Osaka Castle
One of Osaka’s most visited tourist attractions, the castle you see before you has been destroyed multiple times throughout history, both man-made and natural causes are to blame.
While Osaka Castle appears to be of traditional architecture, it is quite modern inside, even an elevator for easier access. Inside the castle is a museum detailing the castle’s history and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who originally ordered the castle to be built.
There are a number of other buildings in the complex and around 500 cherry blossom trees.
You can get to Osaka Castle by taking the JR Loop Line to Osakajokoen Station. Admission costs 600¥ and is oCast9am to 5pm.
Umeda Sky Building
Within the Kita District of Osaka, the 173 meter Umeda Sky Building, or New Umeda City, has two separate towers connected at the 39th floor by a floating garden observatory.
While admission is a little steep (1500¥), the large windows offer a great view of Osaka. Umeda Sky Building is open from 9:30am to 10:30pm.
Dotonbori
With some stores open 24 hours, the famous nightlife, restaurant and entertainment street of Dotonbori never totally closes. It’s a great place to have dinner and a drink, as well as have a unique stroll.
Dotonbori is best seen at night with hundreds of neon signs shining brightly and a vibrant atmosphere.
The closest and easiest train station by Dotonbori is Namba Station.
Day 7
Namba Yasaka Shrine
Also known as “Lion Shrine”, Namba Yasaka Shrine is possibly Osaka’s most unique shrine – due to the large and intimidating face of a lion.
Entering through the lion’s mouth, the 11x12m face is quite the sight. The wide-mouthed lion is thought to swallow evil spirits whole.
You can get to Namba Yasaka Shrine by a short 5-minute walk from Namba Station and is totally free to enter.\
Kuromon Ichiba Market
Kuromon Ichiba Market is one of my personal favorite stops in not just Osaka, but all of Japan. This is because I like to try some very unique food.
While having a lively atmosphere, you can find plenty of things to eat – such as Okonomiyaki.
If you’re on a budget, but want to try some unique dishes Japan has to offer, you can get Kobe Beef, sea urchin (or uni) and the infamous Fugu pufferfish (the one that is tagged with the near-death experience of Homer Simpson) – all for very reasonable prices.
Tsutenkaku Tower – Shinsekai
The area around Tsutenkaku Tower is one of Osaka’s most unique places to visit. Colorful billboards and a giant floating pufferfish surround a number of restaurants, all while Tsutenkaku Tower looms in the distance.
Extra things to do in Osaka
If you have some extra time in Osaka, there are some extra things to do and see in the busy city.
Abeno Harukas
This is another viewpoint over the city of Osaka. Standing 300 meters high, Abeno Harukas is not only the tallest skyscraper in Osaka, but all of Japan.
The observation decks are located on the 58th, 59th and 60th floors – the top three floors of Abeno Harukas Skyscraper. While the 58th holds a café and souvenir shop, the 60th floor gives panoramic views of Osaka.
Other attractions such as the Abeno Harukas Art Museum can be found on the 16th floor.
Abeno Harukas sits directly on Kintetsu Osaka Abenobashi Station, opens 10am to 10pm and cost of admission varies depending on exhibitions on at the time.
Mozu Tombs
Mozu Tombs isn’t in Osaka, it’s a little out in Sakai City, around 40minutes south by train.but if you’re looking for other things to do around Osaka, it is a great option.
A cluster of several tombs, Mozu Tomb was built in the 4th to 6th century and were designated a Cultural World Heritage Site in 2019.
One of the largest tombs in the world, this 600×800 meter is the biggest tomb complex in Japan.
You can get to Mozu Tlmbs by the JR Hanwa Line and get off at Mozu Station. You can visit from 9am to 9pm and there is no admission fee.
What to add to your 7 day Japan itinerary?
If you have the extra time to add to your Japan 7 day itinerary, and you would like to hit up the 4th city rather than spend the extra time in one, Osaka or Hiroshima (whichever one you originally left out of your Japan itinerary) is a pretty solid choice.
This is quite a fast-paced travel itinerary for Japan, so taking a day or two to explore the almost never-ending these ancient cities turned modern metropolises have to offer is also a great option.
There will always be more to see with only 7 days in Japan, but that’s just the way it is with such a diverse country.
If you have more than 7 days in Japan, consider visiting some of the Okinawan Islands of Japan, like Aka and Zamami.
A flight from Tokyo to Naha in Okinawa takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes and can cost as little as $80 USD through Peach Airlines.
From Naha, I would suggest catching a ferry to some of the smaller islands, Zamami Island, along with Aka and Geruma Islands, is a beachy paradise, far from the busy skyscraper s of Tokyo and Osaka.
If you’re into it, you can spend a night or two in a Buddhist Temple. The one I stayed at was called Taiyoji Temple Buddhist Temple, and was a couple of hours outside of Tokyo in the wilderness. It was definitely an unforgettable experience in Japan.
Video on exploring Japan in 7 days
This short video takes you around the jam-packed itinerary of Japan in a week. You can find plenty more movies on Japan and other travel destinations by subscribing to the Youtube channel.
Spending 7 days in Japan summary
With 7 days in Japan, you can get a small taste of an ancient country with a unique and often quirky culture.
This 7-day itinerary of Japan covers many temples, viewpoints and history lessons throughout this diverse and memorable place to visit.
I would love to hear your recommendations – what should I change about this 7 day Japan itinerary? Let me know, along with any questions in the comments below.
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Happy and safe travels
Ben – Horizon Unknown
