Tokyo to Kyoto 10-Day Itinerary: A Complete Travel Guide for Japan

This 10-day itinerary for Tokyo and Kyoto is designed for travelers who want to explore Japan’s rich blend of modern cities, traditional culture, temples, nature, and historical sites. It includes three full days in Tokyo, four days in Kyoto, a one-day trip to Nara, and two travel days. With a balance of cultural experiences and efficient transport planning, this guide provides a useful, ready-to-follow route for those visiting Japan for the first time.

• Where to Stay: Check the best Tokyo hotels and Kyoto hotels.
  
• Transportation: Use a Japan Rail Pass if planning multiple train rides.
  
• Flights: Compare flights to Japan using Skyscanner.
  
• Packing List: Use a complete Japan packing guide.
• Travel Insurance: Purchase flexible plans via World Nomads

Need help planning your Japan trip? Visit our website here for more travel tips, hotel suggestions, and itinerary ideas!

Begin the Tokyo leg by visiting Meiji-jingu Shrine in Harajuku, one of Tokyo’s most important Shinto shrines. It’s located in a quiet forested area and is ideal for a peaceful morning walk.

After exploring the shrine, walk to Omotesando, a wide, upscale shopping street filled with designer shops and modern architecture. Then visit the Nezu Museum for its impressive Japanese art collection and beautiful garden.

Next, travel to Shibuya and cross the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Enjoy lunch in the area and explore nearby department stores or small boutiques.

In the evening, head to Roppongi, known for nightlife and modern art museums. For dinner, Roppongi offers a mix of Japanese and international cuisines.

Start the day in Asakusa by visiting Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most visited temple. Walk through Nakamise Street to browse for souvenirs and traditional snacks.

Then take the subway to Ueno. Explore Ueno Park, home to several major museums. The Tokyo National Museum is recommended for its wide range of historical artifacts.

Head to Tokyo Station for lunch. The station’s underground area is full of food halls and casual restaurants.

After lunch, walk to Ginza, Tokyo’s upscale shopping district. Explore department stores like Mitsukoshi and Wako, and stay for dinner in the area.

Start the day by visiting the Imperial Palace East Gardens. While the inner palace grounds are off-limits, the public gardens offer scenic walking paths and historic ruins.

Nearby, visit Yasukuni Shrine, dedicated to those who died in service of Japan. The accompanying war museum provides context on Japan’s military history.

In the afternoon, go to Shinjuku. Explore department stores, entertainment areas, and observation decks like Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Shinjuku is also a great area for dinner, especially in Omoide Yokocho or Kabukicho.

Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto on the Tokaido Shinkansen. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Upon arrival at Kyoto Station, store luggage in coin lockers or the luggage storage office. Enjoy lunch inside the station, where many restaurants offer local Kyoto specialties.

In the afternoon, explore the area near the accommodation or take a short walk to nearby temples if time allows. Most check-ins begin around 3:00 PM.

Begin the Kyoto tour in Southern Higashiyama, home to many of Kyoto’s top temples. Start at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, famous for its wooden stage and panoramic views.

Walk north along Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, historic streets filled with teahouses, shops, and snack stalls. Visit nearby temples such as Kodai-ji, Yasaka Shrine, and end at Shoren-in.

Have lunch downtown. In the afternoon, visit Nishiki Market to try local Kyoto delicacies. End the day with a short walk around Gion, Kyoto’s geisha district.

Take a train or taxi to Arashiyama on Kyoto’s west side. Begin at Tenryu-ji Temple, a Zen temple with a lovely garden.

Walk through the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, then visit Okochi-Sanso Villa for garden views and matcha tea.

In the afternoon, take a taxi to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), one of Kyoto’s most iconic sights. If time and energy permit, visit Daitoku-ji Temple, known for its Zen atmosphere.

For dinner, head to Pontocho Alley, a narrow street lined with traditional restaurants.

From Kyoto Station, take the Kintetsu Line to Nara, which takes around 35 minutes.

Start at Issui-en Garden, a peaceful garden with scenic views. Next, walk to Todai-ji Temple to see the Great Buddha statue—one of Japan’s most famous landmarks.

Spend time in Nara Park, where wild deer roam freely. Feeding the deer with special crackers sold in the park is a popular activity. Finish with a visit to Kasuga-taisha Shrine.

Return to Kyoto in the late afternoon or evening.

Explore Northern Higashiyama starting at Nanzen-ji Temple and nearby Eikan-do Temple.

Walk along the Philosopher’s Path, a stone path that follows a canal lined with cherry trees. It leads to Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), known for its understated beauty and zen garden.

In the afternoon, head downtown to relax or explore department stores, cafes, or Kyoto Handicraft Centers.

Optional: Visit Kurama, a quiet mountain village with hiking trails and a hot spring.

Start the day by visiting Tofuku-ji Temple, famous for its Zen rock gardens and maple views.

Walk or take the train to Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, known for its thousands of red torii gates. Early morning visits are best to avoid crowds.

After lunch, visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park. If Daitoku-ji Temple hasn’t been visited yet, this is a good opportunity to include it.

Spend the evening in Gion or do some final souvenir shopping.

Travel back to Tokyo via shinkansen. There’s no need for an early departure, as most hotels in Tokyo don’t allow check-in before 3:00 PM.

In the afternoon, enjoy last-minute shopping in Shibuya, Harajuku, or Tokyo Station. These areas are ideal for picking up gifts, Japanese cosmetics, or traditional snacks.

For a final meal in Japan, consider a special dinner in Roppongi or Shinjuku, where high-end restaurants offer both Japanese and international cuisines.

This Tokyo and Kyoto 10-day travel itinerary is ideal for travelers looking to balance modern attractions, cultural heritage, and efficient logistics. With built-in time for rest, exploration, and day trips, it provides a flexible yet structured way to discover the highlights of Japan. Bookmark or save this guide for future planning or real-time use on location.

 As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Angie xoxo