Japan

How to Have the Best 7 Days in Japan (A Guide for First Timer’s)

October 22, 2023

Let’s talk about Japan, the coolest country around. Seriously, this place is jam-packed with amazing sights and activities. Seven days might seem short, but trust me, it’s more than enough time to experience the best of what this country has to offer. And lucky for you, I’ve got the ultimate guide to help you plan 7 days in Japan. From where to stay to where to eat and everything in between, I’ve got you covered. Get ready to be blown away by Japan!

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a tour through a link below then I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I really appreciate your support!

When To Visit Japan

If you want to experience the postcard-perfect cherry blossoms or those vivid autumnal leaves, then you better pack your bags in between March to May or September to November.

During these months, the weather is absolutely delightful with minimal rainfall, clear skies, and temperatures that won’t make you sweat or freeze your toes off. Mild temps ranging from 50 to 70 Fahrenheit can only mean one thing – so you can skip the bulky winter coats or the tank tops and shorts. Don’t miss out on the chance to witness the beauty of these seasons, book your trip now!

Table of Contents hide

When To Visit Japan

Quick Tips Before You Go

Japan in 7 Days Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1: Temples, Shrines, Cute Swan Boats & Kirby Cafe

DAY 2: Cool Immersive Exhibits, Go-Kart Tour & Sunshine City

Day 3: Travel to Kyoto to See Some Iconic Spots

Day 4: Old Town Kyoto, Bunny Temple & Cruise

Day 5: Bamboo Forest, Unique Kyoto Temple & Tokyo

Day 6: Mount Fuji, Shibuya Sky and Omoide Yokochō

Day 7: Shopping in Shibuya and Shinjuku

Grab my Google Maps with BONUS SPOTS below!

Quick Tips Before You Go

What’s the currency in Japan? The Japanese Yen
Is it hard to visit Japan as an English speaker? If you’re worried about getting lost in Japan, don’t be! It’s a breeze to navigate those streets, even if your Japanese is as non-existent as mine. Trust me, I’ve tried and succeeded! All you need to do is ask the helpful station staff, your sweet hotel receptionist, or the oh-so-pleasant tourist information staff for a bit of guidance. And if all else fails, just whip out your handy dandy Google Translate.
Biggest Packing Tip: Do not forget to pack good walking shoes. There is SO much to see in Japan and you will be doing a lot of walking!
How to use public transportation in Japan? You’re in for a treat with an efficient and punctual public transportation network found in Japan. Trust me, it’s one of the best in the world. Lucky for you, as an international tourist, you have the chance to take advantage of the Japan Rail Pass (also known as the JR Pass). This pass lets you travel for a certain number of days on various modes of transportation offered by the Japan Rail Group. You can hop on a shinkansen, trains, busses, and even ferries – the possibilities are endless! Here is a basic guide on how to use the JR pass.

Japan in 7 Days Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1: Sensō-ji Temple, Shrine 1 chōme 28-9 Nezu, Swan Boats at Inokashira Park, Gotokuji Temple, Kirby Cafe
Day 2: Zojoji Temple, teamLab Planets Tokyo, Art Aquarium, Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory, Go-Kart Tour, Sunshine City
Day 3: Kyoto Kimono Rental, Fushimi Inari Taisha Senbon Tori Gates, Photo Tour
Day 4: Gion, Hokanji Temple, Kiyomizudera Temple, Starbucks Coffee, Okazaki-Jinja Shrine, Boat Tour
Day 5: Bamboo Forest, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, Meiji Jingu, Harajuku
Day 6: Mount Fuji, Shibuya Sky, Omoide Yokochō
Day 7: Shopping in Shibuya and Shinjuku

Day 1: Temples, Shrines, Cute Swan Boats & Kirby Cafe

Get ready to immerse yourself in the biggest city on the planet – Tokyo! It’s a no-brainer to start off and wrap up your trip here, considering you’ll be flying into Tokyo (either through HND or NRT). Don’t get bogged down in trying to see every nook and cranny – let’s take it easy and highlight some of the best spots that Tokyo has to offer. Get your cameras and your walking shoes ready, and let’s dive into this cool city!

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Tokyo bound and on the hunt for the perfect stay? Well, lucky for you, the city has no shortage of awesome Marriott options! Whether you’re feeling luxe or want some downtown cool, there’s a spot for you. If you’re feeling extra fly, we highly recommend setting up shop in Ginza.

And when it comes to Ginza, Aloft Tokyo Ginza is a true gem. This vibrant and lively hotel doesn’t mess around, boasting a sweet 24-hour gym, restaurant, rooftop hangout, and bar (open from 3 p.m. to midnight). You can even shoot some pool while sipping on your drink of choice!

But let’s talk location – Aloft Tokyo Ginza is in the heart of Ginza and just a short distance from must-sees like Hibiya Park and the Imperial Palace. Not to mention, there are plenty of subway stations nearby when you’re ready to branch out. Trust us, you won’t regret calling Aloft Tokyo Ginza your new home away from home.

Best Marriott Hotel in Tokyo Ginza (Video)

Get An Early Start at Sensō-ji Temple

You CANNOT MISS Tokyo’s most popular temple!!! You will find yourself in a sea of people here but if you want to ditch the crowds, head to Sensoji in the early morning or evening for a breathtaking illuminated view. And don’t miss out on the stalls lining the path – they’ve got everything from cheesy souvenirs to authentic Edo-style crafts. Keep in mind that these shops are only open from 10 AM to 5 PM every day. So don’t be caught snoozing!

Visit Some of Tokyo’s Own Torii Gates

Fun fact alert! Who knew that Tokyo had its own version of Torii Gates? Nezu Shrine, situated near Ueno Park, boasts as one of Japan’s oldest and most charming shrines! This enchanting place, tucked away in greenery and surrounded by carp-filled ponds, features walkways lined with small shrine arches that will make you feel like you’re walking through a tunnel of pure magic. And let’s not forget about the impeccably crafted wooden structures that showcase Japan’s culture in all its glory. Trust me, Nezu Shrine is a must-see if you want to experience the essence of Japan’s age and beauty!

Ride the Cutest Swan Boats at Inokashira Park

A few years ago I saw the most beautiful image of these cute little swan boats floating in a river lined with cherry blossoms in Japan. So when we booked our flights to Japan, I just knew I had to take one of these swans out for a spin! Although you can find many of these swan boats throughout Japan, the best spot to check them out is Inokashira Park in Tokyo.

INSIDER TIP: these swan boats are far less comfortable to paddle if you’re tall, just ask my husband.

Swan Boats in Tokyo (Video)

Fall in Love With The Cutest Cat Temple

I have to confess I am no where near a cat person, but when I heard Gotokuji temple in Tokyo is filled with hundreds of these lucky cute cat statues I knew I had to see it for myself! There are so many legends about these cats and how they became such powerful good luck charms. Legends from cats helping little down on their luck shopkeepers to helping priests escape from danger with a waving gesture! Pretty cool huh??

Have a Adorable Little Dinner at the Kirby Cafe

Get ready to step into the playful world of Kirby at the world’s first Kirby Café in Tokyo. You will find amazing Kirby-shaped food and colorful decorations. The cafe is located on the 4th floor of the Tokyo Solamachi, right next to the Tokyo Skytree. Don’t forget to grab some new and original Kirby products to take home with you too! Just remember to make a reservation in advance, or you’ll be in the same boat as us – regretting that we didn’t plan ahead. But no worries, you can still get your Kirby fix with their take-out option.

DAY 2: Cool Immersive Exhibits, Go-Kart Tour & Sunshine City

Today’s lineup is packed with some awesome immersive art experiences that will elevate your Instagram game, a super fun go-kart tour that will take you through some popular spots in Tokyo, and some specialty shops in Sunshine City that are a must-see.

Catch Iconic Views of Tokyo Tower at This Tokyo Temple

Get ready to be awestruck by the historical significance of Zojoji Temple– it’s practically a time capsule! Despite being downsized from its glory days, this temple is still standing. With a beloved location right by Tokyo Tower, iconic figures within the temple grounds have become a must-see for tourists and history buffs alike. The original temple spanned over 826,000 square meters and featured 48 smaller attached temples. These days, Zojoji Temple is living life to the fullest and flaunting its strongly-rebuilt structures.

Leave Space on Your Phone for teamLab Planets Tokyo

This may be the most popular spot featured on Instagram in Tokyo! The TeamLab Planets exhibition is the ultimate sensory experience. At Teamlab Planets you’ll get the chance to walk on water! With 4 massive exhibition spaces and 7 mind-blowing art installations, this place is a vibe. Let’s be real though – it’s kinda like a popular brunch spot on Sundays; CROWDED. But, trust me when I say that the experience trumps the long lines and packed spaces. So kick off your shoes (literally), bring your curiosity, and get ready to have your mind blown at Teamlab!

INSIDER TIP: Book tickets in advance. You’ll also want to avoid wearing a dress or make sure to wear shorts underneath because some of the rooms contain mirrored floors and unless you want to show your underwear you’ll want to come prepared.

Visit One of Tokyo’s Most Unique Museums

Say hello to one of the most Instagrammable museums in Tokyo, and yet a fraction of the crowd size found here! Not only will you be able to bask in the beauty of living art, but you’ll also get to witness the museum’s seasonal transformations. During cherry blossom season, the space is adorned with enchanting decorations that’ll make you feel like you’ve wandered into an ethereal wonderland. Don’t settle for a boring day at the museum – dive into this goldfish wonderland.

PRO TIP: This museum can be tricky to find, but it’s located on the 9th floor of Mitsukoshi Ginza Department store

Art Aquarium in Tokyo (Video)

Bite Into The CUTEST Desserts At The Totoro Cafe

Brace yourself for some cuteness overload! I stumbled upon Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory, and boy is this place a total Totoro heaven. It’s the official licensee of Studio Ghibli, so you know it’s legit. With their cute Totoro-themed cream puffs and bakery delights, you’ll be transported to a magical world where desserts reign supreme. The sweetness overload is worth the visit, and trust me; you won’t regret indulging your sweet tooth here. This bakery is truly one of a kind, and it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves anime, desserts, or just cuteness in general.

GOOD TO KNOW: The totoro shaped cream puffs have a tendency to sell out quickly, so don’t make the same mistake we did and wait until the end of the day to stop by. We actually had to go back a second day (stopped by around 3 pm) to snag some cream puffs, because the first day we went they were sold out.

Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory (Video)

Get Ready to See Tokyo in Style On This Super Fun Tour

Hold on tight, ’cause we’re about to go on the most fun tour in Tokyo! And no, this tour isn’t on some boring old tour bus. You will be hitting the streets in an actual go-kart. Think Mario Kart vibes. And I have to confess this was a total highlight of our time in Tokyo. It should basically be a crime if you don’t book this tour!!

Here are some quick tips on booking a Tokyo: Go-Kart Tour:

• You need to obtain an international driver’s permit before you board your flight to Tokyo. We got our permit through AAA, and it was a fast and easy process
• You will not be permitted to drive a go-kart without an international driver’s license and your permit
• Tour is 1 hour and someone from the Monkey Kart team will be on your tour to take photos of you. A good selection of photos will be shared afterwards.
• You drive through the most iconic areas of Tokyo — Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya
• BOOK IN ADVANCE, these tours sell out quickly

Tokyo Go Kart Tour (Video)

Check Out Tokyo’s Most Popular Shopping Mall

Want to get a glimpse of one of Tokyo’s biggest shopping districts?? Come and visit Sunshine City! This place is so massive, it’s like it has its own time zone. You’ll find indoor theme parks, aquarium, planetarium, and observation deck, it’s truly out-of-this-world! You only have 7 days in town, so let’s cut to the chase and head to the must-visit highlights of this awesome mall!

Taste Some Hello Kitty Treats at the Sanrio Cafe

What’s that? You’re looking for a cute character cafe in Tokyo? Well you’ve come to the right place! It’s a universal fact that Hello Kitty and the Sanrio world are filled with the most ADORABLE characters, so imagine my surprise when I heard there is an actual cafe that brings them to life!!! YOU GUYS. I wanted to order one of everything from the menu. EVERYTHING. Tbh, it’s probably best I didn’t because the food and the service was just mediocre

Sanrio Cafe in Tokyo (Video)

Find the Largest Collection of Toy Vending Machines Here

A visit to the worlds largest gashapon store is a need for SO many reasons, but mostly because you can find the cutest assortment of little toys here! You may never financially recover from this visit, but worth it IMO!! You can find this place at Ikebukuro Sunshine City on the third floor. These machines only take change, but rest assured you can find ATMs here.

Gashapon Ikebukuro Main Store in Tokyo (Video)

Day 3: Travel to Kyoto to See Some Iconic Spots

Kyoto was pure magic! It’s got 1,600 temples, traditional Japanese houses, cute cafes, and hills lined with forests. If you enjoy smaller cities over big metropolises like me, then you’ll totally swoon over Kyoto! Only regret? Spending just 2 days here. I’ve got big dreams of returning though – and lucky for you I’m going to share some of the best highlights of Kyoto to make your Kyoto itinerary extra special!

Where to Stay in Kyoto

Kyoto may not be as enormous as Tokyo, but don’t let its size fool you. This city is brimming with endless activities to indulge in. From jaw-dropping temples to beautiful local shops and good eats, Kyoto has it all. But here’s the cherry on top – if you’re looking for the ultimate traditional Japanese experience, book a stay at a ryokan. And let me tell you, you won’t be disappointed because Kyoto has a plethora of them! We knew we had to jump on this opportunity, and it was well worth the splurge!

The Most Stunning Ryokan Hotel in Kyoto (Video)

You won’t BELIEVE what you’ll find when you walk down this unassuming street in Kyoto and stumble upon the Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St. At this ryokan you get your own private living quarters. So, if you’re in the mood for some serious pampering and luxury, look no further than this amazing Kyoto hotel!

Experience Kyoto Like a Local By Renting a Kimono

Are you ready to turn your Japanese trip into something unforgettable? This was our first stop, so we could get dressed up before hitting the town to explore. You will want to set aside at least 1 hour here.

Embrace Japanese culture and stroll through the tea houses or the bamboo forests of Kyoto in a traditional kimono. You can find several Kimono rental shops for foreign visitors through-out Kyoto offering Kimono rentals with dress-up and makeovers. This is a tourist experience definitely worth checking out!

Kyoto Kimono Rental (Video)

Admire Kyoto’s Famous Torii Gates

Welcome to Fushimi Inari Shrine, where 10,000 vibrant orange torii gates create a stunning two-hour-long walking trail. This Shinto shrine, founded way back in 711 AD, serves as the headquarters for over 40,000 shrines dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and sake. As you stroll through the tunnel of torii gates, you’ll quickly realize why it’s one of Kyoto’s most beloved and sacred landmarks.

It was pouring when we visited, but not even rain could take away from the beauty of this place!

Book a Photo Tour in Kyoto With a Local

We couldn’t pass up an opportunity to add this to our Kyoto travels, and @bigmac__company was an awesome tour guide and photographer! He knew all the best spots and even shared some hidden gems. On this tour you will be taken through some of the most beautiful places in Kyoto while creating some special memories through a photography experience. I highly recommend, these photos make the BEST souvenirs!!

Day 4: Old Town Kyoto, Bunny Temple & Cruise

Get ready to step back in time in Kyoto, the OG capital of Japan. With more than 1,200 years of juicy history, this city is like a fine wine – it only gets better with age! Kyoto was once the hub for creativity and beauty, and you can still see that in every corner today. As your trusty tour guide, I’m excited to show you some of the coolest hidden gems this city has to offer on day two. Get ready to experience the magic!

Wake Up Early to Explore Old Town Kyoto

The Higashiyama District is what you call “Old Kyoto” vibes at its best! With its restored traditional townhomes and adorable shops, you’ll be transported back in time. Right smack between Kiyomizudera and Maruyama Park, it’s impossible to miss. So, whether you’re in search of some Insta-worthy shots, or just want to immerse yourself in some rich Japanese history, Higashiyama District is the perfect place to do it. Let’s talk about what not to miss while you’re here!

Old Town Kyoto (Video)

Kyoto’s Most Photographed Street: Ninenzaka

Stroll Sanneizaka Street

Pop Into Starbucks Coffee Kyoto Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya

Snap Some Photos at Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Look For Some Cute Bunnies At This Temple

This precious gem in the east of Kyoto has been around since 794 and is the go-to spot for anyone wanting to bump up their chances of starting a family. Visitors flock to this shrine to leave messages and prayers for a successful and healthy pregnancy. And who can blame them when you see all the adorable rabbit statues? These little guys have become the unofficial mascots for the shrine, representing fertility and safe childbirth.

Tour This Cute Bunny Temple in Kyoto (Video)

Float Down The River on this Magical Boat Ride

This is quite possibly the most unique and memorable way to explore Kyoto! A River Boat Ride lets you explore the incredible scenery of the Arashiyama area near the bamboo forest and I can confirm this tour is ✨MAGICAL✨ This cute little boat cruise is everything you need and more to make your Kyoto trip really pop!

How do you plan something like this, you say?

* Fastest way to get to this part of Kyoto is by train, take train to Saga-Arashiyama Station
* If you walk just a few minutes upriver from the Togetsu-kyo Bridge on the north side of the Hozu-gawa River, you’ll come to a shack
* You can rent simple rowboats for 1,500 yen for 30 minutes
* To book a private 1 hour boat cruise you will need to reach out to them here: 075-861-0302 or you can show up to their booth and see if you can book one. The cost is 14,000 yen.
* 9am-4:30pm, last boat rental at 3:30pm, subject to change based on weather

Kyoto Boat Tour (Video)

Kyoto Bonus Hotel

I have to confess we found a couple of accomodations in Kyoto we fell in love with, and we couldn’t make up our minds on which one we wanted to book so we decided to do both! Thankfully, my husband had some Marriott points saved up that we were able to use at this Kyoto Marriott collection hotel!

The Suiran Hotel definitely knows how to set itself apart from the rest. This gem is nestled in the Arashiyama district just next door to the iconic bamboo forest and overlooking the Hozugawa River. Originally a private summerhouse of 19th-century industrialist Shōzō Kawasaki, this hotel still exudes that opulent charm. But honestly, why bother leaving when everything you need for a soul-stirring experience is right here at the Suiran Hotel?

Day 5: Bamboo Forest, Unique Kyoto Temple & Tokyo

Before you wrap up your time in Kyoto, I still have a couple more cool spots to add to your list before heading back to Tokyo. Let’s make the most out of this last leg of your journey!

Make A Dash For the Bamboo Forest

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another world entirely! With towering stalks of bamboo surrounding you, this is a sight that simply cannot be captured on camera. Access is easy from the main street in Arashiyama, just north of the entrance to Tenryu-ji Temple. Follow the lone path through the grove, which winds its way uphill.

This May Be Kyoto’s Best Kept Secret

I know the best kept secret in Kyoto – Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple! A little temple that often gets overlooked, but it’s definitely the coolest temple in town. With over 1200 stone sculptures featuring different facial expressions and poses – this temple knows how to keep things interesting. It’s the perfect spot for those looking to step off the beaten path and discover something truly unique.

Head Back to Tokyo and Visit Meiji Jingu

Welcome to the heart of Tokyo, where history and culture merge at the iconic Meiji Jingu Shrine! At the south entrance, keep an eye out for a mountain of traditional sake barrels, donated to the shrine by breweries from all over the country – and a great spot to take some photos!!

And if you’re eager to delve deeper into Meiji Jingu’s rich history, head over to the Meiji Jingu Museum. Newly opened in 2019 to celebrate the shrine’s 100th anniversary, the museum boasts a dazzling array of items used by the Emperor Meiji and his wife.

Best Things to do in Harajuku

We’re about to dive into one of the coolest tourist spots in Tokyo, Harajuku! When in Harajuku, you cannot miss out on Takeshita Street- the heart of this vibrant area, always buzzing with people who just can’t get enough of the electrifying atmosphere. And it’s not just a shopping street! You can find some of the CUTEST themed cafes here!! It’s an experience- easily accessible from the JR Harajuku station and spreads over 350 meters. Here is a list of some of the most unique things you can find here:

Discover This Hidden Gem in Tokyo

Let me introduce you to a hidden gem called Alice on Wednesday located in the heart of Harajuku in Tokyo! If you didn’t know about it, you’d probably walk right by it, because it’s hidden away in a tiny alleyway. You have to walk through a teeny-tiny Alice in Wonderland door to enter – how fun is that?! And when you’re inside, it’s like you’ve been transported straight into the book (or movie)!

They have three whole floors full of Alice in Wonderland themed merchandise that will make you feel like you’re living in your own fairytale. Trust me, shopping at Alice on Wednesday is an experience you won’t have anywhere else!

Alice on Wednesday (Video)

Pop Into This Awesome FREE Tokyo Exhibit

I have a feeling Ross Gellar would be a big fan of this, because this is something straight out of a prehistoric fairytale! Get ready to explore the mystical forest and catch some prehistoric animals with this awesome interactive experience straight from teamLab!!! You even get to study them before releasing them back to their natural habitat. But wait, there’s more! You’ll be using an app on the Galaxy smartphone to make this happen.

And who’s behind this RARR-ing exhibition? None other than the dream team of Galaxy and teamLab! The free exhibition is open from 11am until 7pm daily.

Galaxy & teamLab: Dinosaur Forest (Video)

Day 6: Mount Fuji, Shibuya Sky and Omoide Yokochō

Fujinomiya is often overlooked by tourists on their way to Tokyo and Kyoto but has so much to offer! Want to see some jaw-dropping waterfalls? Check! How about ancient shrines? We got ‘em! And let’s not forget the cherry on top – the stunning views of Mount Fuji will leave you breathless. And if you’re wondering how to get here from Tokyo, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered:

You can take a 70 minute journey from Tokyo station on the Tokaido Bullet train. The cost ranges from 3622 – 7801 yen. There is a direct bus, the Yakisoba express, that goes from Tokyo station to Fujinomiya in just over two hours and this costs 2750 yen

PRO TIP: book bus ticket in advance, we bought at the bus station at the time slot we wanted was all sold out so we had to wait for the next available bus

Mount Fuji Day Trip (Video)

See What All The Hype’s About At Shibuya Sky

I totally didn’t think we needed to hit up Shibuya Sky when we were in Tokyo, but boy was I wrong! It ended up being sooo much fun, like seriously one of the best rooftop views EVER. Who knew I could have so much fun in an overcrowded observation deck?! Definitely adding this one to the list of must-dos in Tokyo.

Shibuya Sky is an amazing open-air rooftop observation deck located in the new Shibuya Scramble Square commercial district. At a staggering 229 meters (751 feet) high, you can soak in a breathtaking 360-degree view of Tokyo!

INSIDER TIP: Book your tickets in advance, so you can get the time slot you want. I recommend checking this place out at sunset.

Shibuya Sky (Video)

Try Some Local Food at Omoide Yokochō

Welcome to Omoide Yokocho, the ultimate foodie hideaway near Shinjuku Station! These alleys are very narrow but don’t worry, the delicious aroma of grilled meats and savory soups will guide you towards the tastiest bites in town. And sure, some of the buildings might be a bit run down, but what matters is what’s cooking inside – it’s totally worth it! So come on down and see why Omoide Yokocho is the ultimate maze of flavor.

Day 7: Shopping in Shibuya and Shinjuku

Our flight wasn’t until scheduled to leave until later, so we decided to have a more relaxed day and do a bit of shopping in some of Tokyo’s coolest shopping spots. We had a blast shopping in Shibuya! It’s such a unique experience. While Shinjuku has fancy department stores, Shibuya is known for its laid-back vibe with lots of quirky shops. There were so many interesting stores to check out, from fashion boutiques to music shops and even some wacky Japanese inventions.

I hope you find my 7 days in Japan guide helpful as you plan to travel to one of the coolest places in the world! And while you’re here, make sure to grab my Google Maps itinerary below, it includes bonus spots!!