Planning 5 days in Japan might feel overwhelming, but I’m here to help you make the most of it.
I’ve mapped out a practical route that covers Tokyo and Kyoto, two cities that show you the heart of this country.
You’ll get ancient temples, modern neighborhoods, incredible food, and cultural experiences without rushing through everything.
This guide walks you through where to go, what to eat, and how to move between cities smoothly. I’ve included realistic timing and honest tips from my own trips.
By the end, you’ll have a clear plan that fits your schedule and interests.
Planning Your 5 Days in Japan
Get your basics sorted before you land so you can focus on enjoying the trip instead of figuring out logistics. Spring brings cherry blossoms in late March through April.
Autumn offers fall colors in October and November. Summer gets hot and humid. Winter is cold with fewer tourists. Buy a Japan Rail Pass before you arrive for bullet train travel.
Exchange your voucher at the airport. Download Google Maps and get a prepaid SIM card at the airport. Stay in Shibuya or Shinjuku in Tokyo.
Stay in Northern Higashiyama or near Kyoto Station in Kyoto. Book hotels near train stations.
Your Day by Day Itinerary
A practical five day plan covering Tokyo’s energy and Kyoto’s temples without overwhelming your schedule.
Day 1: Tokyo Arrival & Exploration
Start slow on your first day to adjust to the time difference and get familiar with Tokyo’s rhythm. Land at Narita or Haneda Airport and pick up your JR Pass.
Check into your hotel in Shibuya or Shinjuku. Take a short walk around your neighborhood.
Grab dinner at a local sushi or ramen spot. Visit Shibuya Scramble Crossing if you’re nearby. Head back early to rest.
Day 2: Kyoto Highlights
Take the bullet train west to see Kyoto’s temples, bamboo groves, and riverside walks. Catch an early Shinkansen to Kyoto. Drop your bags at your hotel.
Visit Arashiyama’s bamboo grove early. See Tenryuji Temple and walk along the Katsura River.
Grab lunch and browse local shops. Visit Kinkaku ji in the afternoon. Eat dinner near Kamo River.
Day 3: Kyoto Cultural Immersion
Spend a full day moving through Kyoto’s temples, gardens, and traditional districts. Start at Ginkaku ji and walk the Philosopher’s Path to Nanzen ji Temple.
Book a tea ceremony if interested. Visit the Imperial Palace grounds, Nijo Castle, and Yasaka Shrine.
Find the Gion district in the evening. Eat dinner at Nishiki Market. Return to Tokyo or stay another night in Kyoto.
Day 4: Tokyo City Exploration
Cover Tokyo’s mix of old temples, modern districts, and green spaces in one packed day. Start at Asakusa and Senso ji Temple.
Walk through Nakamise Shopping Street and try local snacks. Eat lunch at a tempura restaurant. Visit Akihabara for anime and electronics.
Walk to Meiji Jingu shrine. Head to Shibuya or Shinjuku for dinner. Explore nightlife if interested.
Day 5: Tokyo & Departure
Wrap up your trip with markets, gardens, and last-minute sights before your flight. Visit Tsukiji or Toyosu Market for breakfast. Walk the Imperial Palace East Gardens.
Grab revolving sushi for lunch. Visit Shibuya Scramble and Takeshita Street. Rest at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
Watch the sunset from Tokyo Tower if time allows. Enjoy your final dinner.
Extra Tips for Your 5 Day Japan Trip
Small details that make travel smoother when you’re working with limited time.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and pack layers. Bring a small day bag for water and snacks.
- Outlets use two prong plugs. Bring an adapter if needed.
- Japan runs on cash. Withdraw yen at 7 Eleven ATMs. Carry bills for small restaurants and temples.
- Take off shoes when entering homes, restaurants, and temples. Bow slightly when greeting people. Don’t talk loudly on trains.
- Book train seats during rush hour. Download offline maps. Save restaurant addresses in Japanese. Set aside buffer time between activities.
Conclusion
I still think about the quiet morning I spent walking through Arashiyama’s bamboo grove and the chaos of crossing Shibuya at night. Japan packs both into one trip.
This 5 day itinerary gives you Tokyo’s energy and Kyoto’s history without exhausting you. Adjust the schedule based on what matters to you.
Skip a temple if you’d rather spend an hour in a coffee shop. Stay an extra day if you can. Come back and tell me which spot surprised you most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 5 days enough for Japan?
Five days covers Tokyo and Kyoto’s main sights without rushing. You’ll get a solid introduction to Japanese culture, food, and city life. Add more days if you want to explore other regions or slow down the pace.
Do I need to speak Japanese?
No. Major cities have English signs and many restaurant menus include pictures. Download a translation app for backup. Most people will try to help even with a language barrier.
What’s the best way to get around?
Use trains for city travel and the bullet train between Tokyo and Kyoto. Buy a Japan Rail Pass if you’re making the round trip. Local metro systems are clean, fast, and run on schedule.
How much cash should I carry?
Carry at least 10,000 to 15,000 yen daily for food, transport, and entry fees. Many small shops and restaurants don’t take cards. Withdraw more cash as needed from convenience store ATMs.
Can I customize this itinerary?
Yes. Skip Kyoto if you prefer staying in Tokyo and taking day trips to places like Nikko or Hakone. Add Osaka if you want more city variety. Adjust based on your interests and energy level.