Japan Essentials: Tokyo, Kyoto & Hakone (9 Days)
Planning your first trip to Japan?
Our specially designed 9-day itinerary covering Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hakone will let you experience the perfect blend of modern life, traditional culture, and stunning nature.
Below is everything you need to know to make your trip smooth, fun, and unforgettable.
Trip Overview: 9 Days of Japan
| Day | Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival in Tokyo | Explore Shibuya, Shinjuku, Meiji Shrine |
| 2 | Tokyo Sightseeing | Asakusa, Ueno Park, Akihabara |
| 3 | Tokyo Disneyland or Odaiba | Theme park or digital art museum |
| 4 | Hakone Day Trip | Lake Ashi cruise, Owakudani Valley, Onsen |
| 5 | Travel to Kyoto | Fushimi Inari Shrine, Nishiki Market |
| 6 | Kyoto Temples | Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Gion District |
| 7 | Nara Day Trip | Todai-ji Temple, Nara Deer Park |
| 8 | Free Day in Kyoto | Optional activities: Tea ceremony, Kimono rental |
| 9 | Departure from Osaka | Last-minute shopping in Dotonbori |
How to Travel Between Cities
1️⃣ Tokyo → Hakone → Kyoto
Use the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) for convenient and cost-effective travel.
👉 Buy JR Pass here → Japan Rail Pass Official Site
2️⃣ Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
Fast, efficient, and comfortable way to travel between Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
👉 Book Shinkansen tickets → Japan Railways (JR) East
Recommended Hotels
Tokyo
Hotel Gracery Shinjuku – Modern, located in Shinjuku (Great for nightlife).
👉 Book via Booking.com → Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
Hakone
Hakone Kowakien Tenyu Ryokan – Traditional ryokan with Onsen.
👉 Book via Agoda → Hakone Kowakien Tenyu
Kyoto
Hotel Granvia Kyoto – Conveniently connected to Kyoto Station.
👉 Book via Hotels.com → Hotel Granvia Kyoto
Must-Try Foods During the Trip
Tokyo: Sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market
Hakone: Black eggs (Owakudani specialty)
Kyoto: Yudofu (Tofu hotpot), Matcha sweets
Nara: Kakinoha Sushi (Persimmon leaf sushi)
👉 Read full Japan Food Guide → Top Food Spots in Japan
Useful Travel Tips
Get a Suica/Pasmo Card for public transport in Tokyo.
👉 Buy Suica Card → Suica Card InformationCarry cash – many places don’t accept cards.
Download offline Google Maps or MAPS.ME for easy navigation.
Try local experiences: Tea Ceremony, Kimono Rental in Kyoto.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Experience |
|---|---|
| Spring (March – May) | Cherry blossoms (Hanami), mild weather |
| Autumn (September – November) | Fall colors (Momiji) |
| Winter (December – February) | Snow activities in Hokkaido |
| Summer (June – August) | Festivals and fireworks, but can be humid |
👉 See detailed Japan Festival Guide → Japan Festivals Guide
Why This Itinerary Works Best
✔️ Well-balanced mix of city life, nature, culture
✔️ Suitable for first-time travelers
✔️ Easy to follow and optimized for 9 days
✔️ Perfect pace – not rushed, with time to explore