My Highlights 10-Day Itinerary to Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & Mount Fuji
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Planning a 10-day itinerary to Japan can feel overwhelming at first—Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Mount Fuji, Nara… where do you even start? I’ve been lucky enough to travel solo to Japan twice, and I honestly think 10 days is the perfect amount of time to see the highlights without rushing.
You’ll get a real taste of Japan’s incredible cities, its traditions, and its unforgettable food culture, which I fell head over heels in love with.
What struck me on my first trip was how instantly comfortable I felt travelling alone. Japan is clean, organised, and safe, which makes it such a confidence-boosting destination for solo female travellers.
One of my challenges was arriving jet-lagged into the maze of Shinjuku Station—but even then, once I found my way and sat down for my first solo lunch, I realised how normal and easy solo dining is in Japan. Most restaurants have counter seating, which makes asking for a table for one feel completely natural.
If you’re planning your first visit, this guide will walk you through the best way to spend 10 days in Japan—from the bright lights of Tokyo to the temples of Kyoto, with day trips to Mount Fuji and Nara, plus the foodie energy of Osaka.
And if you’re especially curious about Kyoto as a solo traveller, don’t miss my solo female travel guide to Kyoto for deeper tips on where to stay, what to do, and how to explore the city with confidence.
Do not miss out on all the awesome information from the official Tourism Board in Japan.
Is it safe to travel solo in Japan as a woman?
Yes—absolutely. I’ve visited Japan twice on my own, spending time in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and even on a day trip to Mount Fuji, and I never once felt unsafe. Japan is one of the easiest and most comfortable countries to explore as a solo female traveller.
What makes Japan so safe is the overall culture: people are polite, organised, and helpful, but they also mind their own business. Compared to other countries in Asia and around the world, even small concerns like pickpocketing or tourist scams are rare here.
Of course, you should always follow basic travel safety precautions for women travelling alone—but you don’t need to keep your guard up the way you might in less secure destinations.
One of the things that stood out to me was how normal it felt to set up my phone tripod in public to take photos, even in crowded areas like Shibuya Crossing. In Japan, I never worried someone would run off with my phone—something I’d never feel comfortable doing in places in the US.
Public transportation felt safe and efficient everywhere I went. The trains and subways are clean, affordable, and reliable, even if navigating stations like Shinjuku can be overwhelming at first.
Yes, rush hour is crowded, and like anywhere in the world, incidents can happen. That’s why some trains offer women-only cars during certain hours. I personally never experienced any issues, but knowing that option exists is reassuring.
Locals also go out of their way to help. Once in Kyoto, when I looked lost after coming out of the subway, an older woman approached me in English and even walked with me all the way to a temple I was trying to find. These small acts of kindness happened often—and they made me feel even more welcome and safe.
Dining alone is equally easy. Japan has adapted to solo culture so well that counter seating and individual dining booths (like at the famous Ichiran ramen chain) are the norm. Asking for a table for one never felt awkward or unusual. Japan is one of the best destinations in the world for solo female travellers.
Is 10 days in Japan enough?
If you’re wondering whether 10 days in Japan is enough, the answer is yes. While I’d always love more time in a country as fascinating as Japan, 10 days is the perfect balance for travellers who don’t have unlimited annual leave and still want to see the highlights.
With a bit of planning, you can cover the major must-see spots: Tokyo in 3 days, Kyoto as a solo traveller, Osaka, a day trip to Nara, and a day trip to Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. It means you’ll be moving at a slightly faster pace, but it never felt overwhelming to me.
On my own trip, I actually adjusted along the way. I fell in love with Kyoto and decided to spend more time there, while cutting Osaka down to just one day. For me, Osaka felt like another big city after Tokyo, while Kyoto offered a completely different vibe, more traditional, more cultural, and exactly what I was craving.
For first-time visitors to Japan, this itinerary is ideal. You’ll see all the iconic highlights—Tokyo’s energy, Kyoto’s temples and the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. But here’s the truth: it will leave you wanting more. I left already planning my next trip so I could explore places like Hiroshima and more off-the-beaten-path regions of Japan.
The Perfect 10 Day Itinerary to Japan
Day 1 in Tokyo – Arrival and Exploring Shibuya
Shibuya Crossing
It might just be a pedestrian crossing, but Shibuya Crossing is one of those things you have to see in Tokyo. It’s not like a normal crossing—people move in every direction, even diagonally, and during rush hour, it feels like organised chaos.
Around the crossing, you’ll also spot massive 3D billboards and ads lighting up the area. It’s one of those places where you stop for a few minutes, take it all in, and think: “Yes, I’m in Tokyo.”
Shibuya Sky at Sunset
If you only do one observation deck in Tokyo, I recommend Shibuya Sky. The views are incredible, especially at sunset when the city lights start to glow. Tickets sell out quickly, so book a time slot in advance if you can.
On my first visit, I missed sunset tickets, and on my second trip, the outdoor viewing areas were closed due to strong winds. Even so, it was still worth it for the view from inside—but if you can catch it at sunset outdoors, it’s unforgettable.
Exploring Shibuya Streets
After Shibuya Sky, spend time wandering the streets around Shibuya Crossing. The area is full of neon lights, endless malls, street-style fashion shops, and plenty of restaurants. I loved just walking around here as a solo traveller—everything feels safe, and there’s always something to see.
One easy solo dining spot in the area is Ichiran Ramen, which even has a 24-hour branch close to Shibuya Crossing. Dining alone is totally normal here, and Ichiran’s private booths make it easy to enjoy your meal in peace.
Day 2 in Tokyo – Gotokuji, Shimokitazawa, Harajuku & Shinjuku
Gotokuji Temple (The “Cat Temple”)
I first saw Gotokuji Temple online because of the rows of maneki-neko (lucky cat statues), and I couldn’t resist visiting. It’s a small temple and not a must-see for everyone, but if you love cats, you’ll enjoy it.
Arrive in the morning if you can—the grounds are tiny, and it gets crowded quickly. You don’t need much time here, but it’s a fun, quirky stop, and you can even buy a little cat statue to leave behind for good luck.
Shimokitazawa – Thrift Shops & Coffee
From Gotokuji, head to Shimokitazawa, one of my favourite neighbourhoods in Tokyo, for a slower-paced day. This area is all about second-hand shops, vintage clothes, little cafés, and a chilled, local vibe.
I bought a shirt and a pair of sunglasses here, and loved how laid-back it felt. There are no neon lights or massive crowds—just cosy streets and a creative atmosphere that makes it feel like “proper” Japan.
Harajuku & Takeshita Street
You’ve probably heard of Harajuku, famous for its bold street fashion and the iconic Takeshita Street. Honestly? I’d skip it. It’s insanely crowded, touristy, and overhyped.
However, if you’re curious and have extra time, by all means check it out—but I wouldn’t go out of my way to eat or shop here. In my opinion, it’s better to save your energy for other areas.
Shinjuku at Night – My Favourite Neighbourhood in Tokyo
Shinjuku is my favourite neighbourhood in Tokyo. It’s a little rougher than other areas, thanks to its history as a red-light district, but that’s also what makes it so fascinating. You’ll see host bars, cosplay bars, and neon streets that feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
Golden Gai: My favourite spot in Tokyo nightlife. It’s a small maze of alleyways filled with tiny bars, each with its own character. I recommend avoiding the crowded tourist bars and finding a quiet spot where you can enjoy a drink and chat. It’s one of the most unique Tokyo experiences.
Omoide Yokocho: Famous for its smoky yakitori stalls and tiny izakayas. Personally, I didn’t enjoy it—it was too crowded and the smoke made it uncomfortable. It’s worth a quick look if you’re curious, but I think it’s overrated.
Day 3 in Tokyo – Tsukiji Market, Asakusa, Ginza & TeamLab
Breakfast at Tsukiji Market
Start your day at Tsukiji Market, one of Tokyo’s most famous food spots. Yes, it’s touristy and crowded, but it’s worth the experience. I had the best sashimi bowl of my life here, and while it isn’t cheap, the quality is unbeatable.
Try a little bit of everything—grilled skewers, sushi, tamagoyaki—and don’t expect it to feel like a quick street-food stop. This is a proper breakfast worth lingering over.
Senso-ji Temple & Nakamise Street in Asakusa
No trip to Tokyo is complete without seeing Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. The temple itself is beautiful, but I also loved the long street leading up to it, filled with food stalls and little shops selling souvenirs. Yes, it’s crowded, but it’s part of the charm.
Sushi Workshop in Asakusa
One of my favourite Tokyo experiences was joining a sushi-making workshop in Asakusa, not far from Senso-ji Temple. I learned how to make temari sushi, which are small, round sushi balls, and the staff made the class fun, interactive, and welcoming.
It was perfect because the instructors and other participants were so friendly, and you get to enjoy everything you make, so lunch is sorted too. Since it’s close to Senso-ji, you can easily combine the two in the same half-day.
TeamLab Digital Art Museum
In the evening, head to TeamLab, Tokyo’s famous immersive digital art museum. This is unlike anything else you’ll see in the city: interactive, colourful, and surreal. It’s one of those places where you can completely lose track of time, and it makes for an unforgettable way to end your final night in Tokyo.
Evening in Ginza & Omotesando
After TeamLab, go to the Ginza or Omotesando area for dinner and drinks. These neighbourhoods are stylish, modern, and full of great restaurants and bars—perfect for winding down before moving on to the next part of your trip.
Ginza is Tokyo’s luxury shopping district. Even if you’re not in the mood to buy anything, the sleek streets, department stores, and modern architecture make it a fascinating area to explore.
If you’d rather avoid the bustle of central Tokyo for a while, swap Ginza for a visit to Ueno Park. It’s a beautiful, peaceful green space and the perfect place to recharge. I loved walking through it to escape the crowds—proof that even in the busiest city in the world, you can find calm corners.
Day 4 in Tokyo – Day Trip to Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi
A highlight of any 10-day itinerary in Japan is a day trip to see Mount Fuji. There are many tour options from Tokyo, but I recommend choosing one that includes Lake Kawaguchi, the Chureito Pagoda, and the famous crossing with Mount Fuji in the background.
This was the Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi tour I joined, and it was amazing! It’s a full-day experience—you’ll leave Tokyo in the morning by bus and return around 6 p.m., depending on traffic.
Booking a tour makes the trip effortless: transport, timing, and entry are all arranged, and you can just sit back, enjoy the views, and listen to the local guide.
At some stops, especially Chureito Pagoda, the crowds can be heavy, but the views are worth it. If you prefer a slower pace or aren’t fussed about Instagram-famous photo spots, there are plenty of other tours and options to choose from.
I’ve shared more recommendations in my full guide to the best tours to Mount Fuji from Tokyo.
One important tip: always check the weather before you go. Mount Fuji can be elusive, especially in summer when clouds often cover the peak. On my September trip, I was lucky with clear skies, but the mountain was green and snow-free.
In contrast, when I visited again in March, it was colder, but the view was spectacular—clear skies and Fuji capped in snow, exactly like the photos you dream of.
Day 5 in Kyoto – Arrival, Nishiki Market & Gion
Nishiki Market for Lunch
Ease into Kyoto with lunch at Nishiki Market, the city’s most famous food street. Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s a fantastic place to sample some of Kyoto’s flavours. I tried the Wagyu and Kobe beef skewers, and while they’re just small bites, this is the perfect chance to taste something that’s normally very expensive.
I was instantly hooked! The Wagyu skewers are so juicy and melt-in-your-mouth good. Pair them with a mango sour, a kind of highball, and you’ve got the perfect quick treat.
If skewers aren’t your thing, you’ll also find sushi, sashimi, roasted chestnuts, and plenty of other street snacks. And if the market feels too busy, the surrounding streets are packed with restaurants and cafés too.
👉🏽 You can dive deeper into food tips for Kyoto in my 2-day itinerary to Kyoto!
Exploring Gion in the Evening
In the evening, head to Gion, Kyoto’s most famous traditional district. Walking the lantern-lit streets, you’ll see old teahouses and traditional architecture that feel like stepping back in time. I didn’t spot a geisha here, but just soaking up the atmosphere is worth it.
One memorable spot was a statue where visitors buy a prayer, crawl through the statue, and symbolically shed bad energy while inviting in good luck. It’s a small cultural detail, but it really stood out to me.
Day 6 in Kyoto – Fushimi Inari, Nara & Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Start your morning early at Fushimi Inari, home to thousands of red torii gates that line the hillside paths. I went just after sunrise, and that’s absolutely the best time—after 10 a.m., the crowds are overwhelming.
Early in the morning, you can still take photos without people in your frame and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Nara Deer Park
If you’re finished at Fushimi Inari, you’ll have time to hop on a train from Kyoto Station to Nara, which is less than an hour away. The main attraction here is Nara Deer Park, where deer roam freely and even bow to tourists.
But to be completely honest, I didn’t find Nara Deer Park worth it. Yes, the deer are cool, but the park is busy, touristy, and some of the animals didn’t look well cared for.
They are still wild animals, which means they can bite, kick, or push people, and I saw plenty of tourists treating them like tame pets and getting surprised when the deer lashed out. For me, it felt overrated and lacked the charm I’d expected.
If you’re curious, though, it’s an easy trip: the park is close to Nara Station, and you can be back in Kyoto by mid-afternoon to continue your day.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in the Afternoon
Whether you go to Nara or not, head to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest later in the afternoon. By this time, the crowds start thinning, and the light through the bamboo is gorgeous. It’s just a forest, but walking under those towering green stalks is still a unique Kyoto experience.
Central Kyoto Shopping in the Evening
If you skipped Nara, you’ll have more time to enjoy Kyoto’s Teramachi and Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcades, or browse along Kawaramachi Street. It’s a good place to pick up souvenirs or just relax with a coffee after a full day of sightseeing.
👉🏽 Check my 2-day itinerary in Kyoto for a more in-depth version of Kyoto’s highlights.
Day 7 in Kyoto – Kiyomizudera, Higashiyama, Kinkaku-ji & Pontocho
Kiyomizudera Temple & Higashiyama District
Begin your morning at Kiyomizudera, one of Kyoto’s most beautiful temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The grounds are large and full of details—I loved the dragon statues and simply wandering through.
Like most things in Kyoto, it does get crowded, so the key is to arrive right after sunrise. You’ll still find quiet spots until about 10:30, when the tour buses from Osaka start rolling in.
After your temple visit, walk down through the Higashiyama District, including the famous Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka streets. These historic lanes are lined with teahouses, shops, and cafés.
To be honest, I didn’t buy anything here because most of the shops are very touristy, but it’s still a lovely area to stroll through and take in the old-town atmosphere.
Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion)
Unfortunately, I didn’t make it to Kinkaku-ji on my trip, but if you have the time, it’s an incredible sight. The temple is covered in gold leaf and reflected in its pond.
It’s at its best when the sun is shining, so plan your visit for a bright afternoon if possible. Even though I missed it, it’s one of those iconic Kyoto spots that’s worth adding to your list.
Evening in Pontocho Alley
End your Kyoto adventure with dinner in Pontocho Alley, one of the city’s most atmospheric dining streets. This narrow lane runs parallel to the Kamogawa River and is packed with lantern-lit restaurants, izakayas, and bars. It’s a place that feels equally good for a relaxed lunch or an evening out.
One place I highly recommend here is Chao Chao Gyoza, a local favourite known for its delicious dumplings. Expect a queue, but it moves quickly, and the gyoza are absolutely worth it. It’s the perfect casual but memorable way to wrap up your time in Kyoto.
Day 8 in Osaka – Dotonbori, Namba & Food Culture
Exploring Dotonbori
Walking around Dotonbori is an experience in itself. It’s busy, yes, but it’s also fun! You’ll see giant lobsters, pufferfish, and ramen bowls hanging over the street as shop signs, and there’s a lively buzz everywhere you go.
Osaka is known as “Japan’s kitchen,” and here are the dishes I tried and recommend:
- Takoyaki (octopus balls): I tried them, but to be honest, they’re not for me—I’m not big on octopus. Still, they’re iconic, so worth a taste.
- Okonomiyaki (savoury pancake): This one I really enjoyed! The quality really depends on where you eat it, but it’s hearty and delicious.
- Taiyaki (fish-shaped pastry): Sweet, fluffy, and filled with custard or red bean. I loved this and would definitely recommend it.
- Yakiniku (Japanese barbecue): If you get the chance, this is a fun dining experience—grilling your own meat at the table.
👉🏽 Check out my blog post on the best food tours in Osaka!
Don Quijote is a giant discount store where you can buy anything from skincare to snacks and quirky souvenirs. I don’t usually shop for souvenirs, but I picked up some great skincare here (makeup wipes and a face wash I loved).
The Ebisu tower ferris wheel: A small ferris wheel attached to Don Quijote with great views over the canal, and you can also take a short boat trip along the canal (I didn’t, but it’s a fun option if you want a different view of Dotonbori).
Rikuro Cheesecake
No trip to Osaka is complete without trying Rikuro cheesecake. It’s light, fluffy, and eggy—nothing like the creamy cheesecakes you might know. I went to their lunchroom, where you take a ticket and come back when it’s your turn.
It’s worth it for the experience, and you can enjoy the cheesecake with coffee or tea. You can also buy a whole cheesecake to take away, like many people do. The café even has set menus with different cakes and drinks if you want a sit-down break.
Day 9 in Osaka – Osaka Castle & Optional Experiences
Osaka Castle
We visited Osaka Castle early in the morning, and it was beautiful. You don’t necessarily need to go inside (there’s a fee and usually a line)—the castle park, moats, and gardens are free and already offer amazing views of the castle from different angles.
Even at 9 a.m., there was already a line to go inside, so I skipped it, but walking around the grounds was more than enough.
Optional: Universal Studios Japan
If you’re a theme park fan, especially for Super Nintendo World, you could make a day of visiting Universal Studios Japan. But be warned—it’s very busy, and the reviews often mention long waits for rides.
For me, it didn’t feel worth spending hours in queues, so I skipped it, but if it’s a bucket-list item for you, plan and book tickets early.
Shinsekai
Another option is to explore Shinsekai, a retro entertainment district. It’s very “old Osaka” with its Tsutenkaku Tower and local food stalls. Personally, I skipped it because it felt quite similar to Dotonbori, but it’s an option if you’re looking for something different.
Evening in Osaka
For our last evening in Japan, we kept it simple—staying near our hotel, relaxing, and eating more of the foods we loved before flying home. Osaka is best enjoyed at a slower pace, snacking and soaking up the atmosphere rather than rushing through sights.
Day 10 – Departure from Osaka
Your 10-day itinerary in Japan ends in Osaka, with an easy trip to the airport for your flight home. Getting to the airport is simple by train (only about 20 minutes) or by subway (cheaper option).
And that’s it! Time to say goodbye to Japan. After 10 days of exploring Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, and Osaka, you’ll leave with memories of neon-lit streets, ancient temples, bamboo forests, and, of course, plenty of incredible food.
Where to Stay in Japan
When I travel solo, I always prefer boutique and design hotels over massive chains. For me, it’s not just about having a bed for the night, it’s about staying somewhere that feels safe, stylish, and welcoming.
Smaller hotels often have more personality and charm, and I feel they offer a more memorable experience compared to impersonal high-rise hotels. Safety, efficiency, and location are the most important factors I look for when booking accommodation in Japan.
As a solo traveller, I want a hotel that’s clean, close to public transport, and in a neighbourhood where I feel comfortable walking around, even at night.
Best Areas to Stay in Tokyo
Tokyo is huge, and where you stay can really shape your trip. My top recommendations for solo travellers are:
- Shinjuku: Central, convenient, and full of restaurants, nightlife, and shopping. It can feel overwhelming at first, but it’s very safe and well-connected. I love this area.
- Shibuya: Trendy and energetic, with endless shops, cafés, and great nightlife.
- Asakusa: More traditional, home to Senso-ji Temple, with a budget-friendly vibe and quieter evenings.
- Ginza: Sleek and modern, with department stores, luxury shopping, and a polished atmosphere.
👉🏽 I share specific accommodation recommendations for Tokyo in my 5-day itinerary to Tokyo.
Best Areas to Stay in Kyoto
Kyoto is more compact than Tokyo, and the neighbourhood you choose can completely change your experience. I recommend:
- Gion: The geisha district, full of traditional charm. More expensive, but magical in the evenings when lanterns light up the streets.
- Kawaramachi: Central and lively, with plenty of shops and restaurants. A great balance for first-time visitors.
- Kyoto Station: The most practical option, especially if you’re taking day trips or arriving late by train.
👉🏽 I’ve shared my favourite boutique hotels in this dedicated post: boutique hotels in Kyoto. You can also read my 2-day itinerary to Kyoto, which goes deeper into where to stay in each area.
Best Areas to Stay in Osaka
For Osaka, I’d keep it simple and focus on two main areas. Osaka is more about food and nightlife than sightseeing, so staying central in Namba or Umeda makes it easy to explore without spending too much time on transport.
- Namba: The best choice if you want to stay near Dotonbori’s neon lights and food scene. Busy but fun.
- Umeda: A transport hub with plenty of shopping and dining. Great for day trips and easy connections.
How to get around Japan
One of the things that makes travelling in Japan so enjoyable is how easy and efficient the transport is. Trains run mostly on time, the subway networks cover every corner of the cities, and there’s a system for everything.
That said, if it’s your first trip, it can feel a little intimidating—especially when you find yourself in a massive station like Shinjuku or Shibuya after a long flight.
Get a Suica Card (Your Best Friend in the Cities)
The Suica Card is essential for getting around Japan’s cities. You can still buy a physical card at the airport train station, but if you have an iPhone, I recommend downloading the digital Suica card directly to your Wallet app.
It’s even easier. You just top it up with your credit card and tap it at the subway gates. Subways are really affordable, and you don’t need to load too much money onto your card at once.
The Suica also works for vending machines, convenience stores, and even some cafés, so it’s a handy way to make small purchases on the go.
JR Rail Pass vs. Buying Tickets Individually
The big question for many travellers is: Should I get the JR Rail Pass? For my 10-day trip, my answer is no, the JR Pass is not worth it.
It only pays off if you’re doing a lot of long-distance travel in a short time. Since my itinerary was just Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka (with a Mount Fuji day trip), buying individual Shinkansen tickets was cheaper.
Even though the JR Pass includes free rides on JR lines within Tokyo, it still didn’t make sense cost-wise. I break this down in more detail in my other post: How to use public transport in Japan.
👉🏽 If you still think the JR Pass might work for you, you can buy it easily online via Klook. They also sell individual Shinkansen tickets in English, which is useful if you want to avoid the occasional language barrier at ticket counters.
Trains and Subways
Japan’s train and subway networks are incredible, but can feel overwhelming at first. What helped me the most were apps:
- Google Maps or Apple Maps: Both work perfectly in Japan. They show exact train lines, departure times, platforms, which carriage to board, and even which exit to take. Believe me, you need this!
- Stations: Major hubs like Shinjuku or Tokyo Station are like small cities, and I made the mistake of not paying attention to the signs when I first arrived. The wrong exit can add 20 minutes to your walk, so pay attention.
👉🏽 For a full breakdown, see my post: How to use public transport in Japan.
Take an Uber
I didn’t use Uber in Tokyo—taxis there are very expensive—but I did use Uber in Kyoto, where it’s much more affordable. I used it twice, and one ride that stood out was going from Fushimi Inari to Kiyomizudera.
The public transport connections between temples aren’t always direct, so grabbing an Uber saved me a lot of time. It cost about $10, and it was absolutely worth it.
Taxis in Japan are spotless and safe, with automatic doors and polite drivers. If you’re short on time, don’t be afraid to take one. It’s a small luxury that can save you hours of walking and transfers.
Be Prepared to Walk (A Lot)
Even with all the trains and subways, Japan is a walking country. I averaged 10,000–20,000 steps per day without even trying. Stations are huge and involve long walks, and sightseeing means hours on your feet.
How much did I spend on my 10 Day itinerary to Japan?
Japan has a reputation for being expensive, but honestly, that’s a bit outdated. These days, Japan is far more affordable than many people think, and with the YEN currently low, you get more value for your money.
I believe this is one of the reasons why Japan is experiencing a significant surge in tourism at present. Your biggest expense will be accommodation, but food and transport are surprisingly budget-friendly. Here’s what I spent and what you can expect.
Accommodation Costs in Japan
Hotels will take up the largest part of your budget. Like anywhere, prices vary depending on size and comfort, but the great thing about Japan is that even budget hotels are spotless, safe, and packed with amenities. Many will have microwaves and washing machines in the building, which is so useful if you’re travelling longer.
- Budget hotels (like APA Hotels): Rooms are small—think one bed, a desk, and a tiny bathroom—but they’re affordable (around $80–100 USD per night), clean, and quiet. Perfect for solo travellers if you don’t mind limited space.
- Mid-range/boutique hotels: Expect to pay more for larger rooms, stylish interiors, and boutique touches. For me, it’s worth it when I want comfort, but I’ve also stayed in smaller budget chains and been perfectly happy.
👉🏽 See my guide to the best boutique hotels in Kyoto for inspiration.
Food Costs in Japan
Food in Japan can be as cheap or as indulgent as you want it to be. I was shocked at how affordable it is compared to eating out in the US or Europe.
- Convenience stores: The food here is next-level. You can grab fresh sushi, onigiri, sandwiches, or even hot meals for just a few dollars. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
- Casual dining: Izakayas, yakitori places, ramen shops, and conveyor-belt sushi restaurants, such as Kura Sushi, make it easy to eat out without spending a fortune.
- Daily budget: You can eat three good meals a day for around $50–60 USD. Alcohol adds extra, but local beers, highballs, or a mango sour usually cost around $5.
I loved grabbing a quick solo lunch at a ramen counter or ordering gyoza and yakitori with a glass of wine. It always felt affordable, and I never felt like I had to cut corners, which is so not me.
Transport Costs in Japan
Transport in Japan is efficient and affordable if you stick to public options:
- Subways & trains: Very reasonable, especially with a Suica card. You’ll also be walking a lot, which helps keep costs down.
- Shinkansen (bullet trains): A larger cost, but worth it for the speed and comfort. Since I didn’t use the JR Pass, I bought tickets individually, which worked out cheaper for this 10-day route.
- Taxis/Uber: In Tokyo, taxis are expensive, so it’s much faster and cheaper to stick with the subway network. In Kyoto, I found taxis and Uber surprisingly affordable, and I used them a couple of times between major temples. For example, going from Fushimi Inari to Kiyomizudera saved me a lot of time for around $10. I wouldn’t use them for every journey, but for convenience between hard-to-reach sites, they’re absolutely worth it.
My 10-Day Japan Budget as a Solo Traveller
For my own 10 days in Japan, I spent around $2,000 USD in total. That included:
- Accommodation (solo room costs)
- Food and drinks
- Transport (subways, Shinkansen, the occasional Uber)
- A little bit of shopping
Because I was travelling solo, I paid the full hotel cost myself. If you’re sharing, your accommodation budget will drop significantly. Even so, I never felt Japan was overpriced. It’s much cheaper than Europe or the US for eating out, and the overall value for money is excellent.
What is the Best Time to Visit Japan
Japan is truly a year-round destination, but some seasons are much more enjoyable than others. The best times to visit for me are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is most comfortable and the scenery is at its most beautiful.
Spring in Japan (March–May)
Spring is famous for the cherry blossoms (sakura season), which usually bloom from late March through April, depending on the region. It’s one of the most popular times to visit Japan, so expect bigger crowds and higher hotel prices.
I visited at the end of March, and it was actually chillier than expected. Even though it was technically spring, I still needed a proper jacket, scarf, and even thermal layers for some days.
The cherry blossoms were delayed because of the colder weather, so while we did see some, the timing was unpredictable. That’s the reality of sakura season—you can’t guarantee perfect timing.
Summer in Japan (June–August)
Personally, I wouldn’t recommend visiting Japan in the summer unless you have no other option. It’s hot, humid, and not ideal for sightseeing. On top of that, it’s typhoon season, which can bring heavy rain.
I haven’t visited in the peak summer months, but based on how warm September already was, I can only imagine how intense the heat and humidity must feel during July and August.
Autumn in Japan (September–November)
Autumn is another fantastic time to visit. The weather is mild, the summer crowds are gone, and prices are lower than in spring. The main highlight is the fall foliage, which transforms temples, gardens, and mountain landscapes into a sea of red, orange, and yellow.
I visited in mid-September, and the weather was perfect. Warm during the day and evenings, but with cooler mornings, where I only needed a light cardigan. It felt like the ideal “after-summer weather.”
Comfortable enough for dresses and shorts during the day, without the oppressive heat of summer.
Winter in Japan (December–February)
Winter in Japan is cold—brutally cold and snowy in many regions. That said, it’s an incredible season if you love skiing, hot springs, or seeing temples covered in snow. Cities like Tokyo and Kyoto are still easy to visit, but you’ll need to pack proper winter gear: coats, scarves, gloves, and thermals.
Personally, I’d rather visit Japan in winter than in the brutal summer months. The idea of snow-covered temples and relaxing in hot springs feels magical, and Japan’s ski resorts are world-class. It may not be ideal for everyone, but if you don’t mind the cold, winter can be a beautiful and unique time to visit.
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The perfect 10-day itinerary to Japan
A 10-day itinerary to Japan is the perfect introduction if it’s your first time visiting the country. In just over a week, you can see Tokyo’s neon streets, experience the magic of Mount Fuji, wander Kyoto’s temples and bamboo forests, and eat your way through Osaka’s food scene.
For me, these 10 days were enough to fall in love with Japan—the organisation, the culture, the food, the people—and to know I’d be back for more. It’s not a rushed trip if you plan it well, and it gives you just enough of the highlights to leave you wanting to return and explore further.
If you have more time, I’d definitely suggest extending your trip to 2 weeks in Japan or more, which allows you to add destinations like Hiroshima or more off-the-beaten-path spots.
Japan is one of the safest, easiest, and most rewarding destinations to explore. I hope this itinerary inspires your own journey.
What to read next for your Japan adventure?
- The Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary To Kyoto For First-Time Travellers
- The Perfect 5-Day Itinerary to Tokyo: The Ultimate Guide + Map
- 6 Gorgeous Boutique Hotels in Kyoto For Women I’d Stay In That Are Solo-Friendly
I love to see how you get on in Japan! Tag me in your photos or leave me a comment below or on Instagram!
