Ultimate 10-Day Japan Group Travel Itinerary: Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto Adventures
Recap of Our Japan Adventure
Hotels We Stayed At:
- Tokyo: Hotel Sui Akasaka by Abest
- Osaka: Hotel Kojan
- Kyoto: Hotel Ecclesia
Alternative Hotels:
- Tokyo: APA Hotel Roppongi Six, Hotel Wing International Select
- Osaka: Toyoko Inn Osaka Namba, Daiwa Roynet Hotel Osaka-Kitahama
- Kyoto: The Thousand Kyoto, Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
Activities by City:
- Tokyo: Tsukiji Market private food tour, Ginza shopping, TeamLab Borderless, Shibuya Sky, Meiji Shrine, Kabukicho nightlife, Golden Gai bar-hopping
- Osaka: Umeda Sky Building, Osaka Castle, food tour via Context Travel, Universal Studios and Super Nintendo World add on, exploring Dōtombori
- Kyoto: Nishiki Market, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, traditional tea ceremony
Discount Codes:
- Book with Context Travel: 15% off with code FANCYNANCISTA
- Book with Klook: 5% off with code FANCYNANCISTAKLOOK
Introduction: My Love for Japan
As someone who’s visited Japan three times, I was beyond excited to host this unforgettable group trip. This was the longest group trip adventure I’ve ever organized, and I felt honored to welcome travelers from Europe. Sharing Japan’s beauty with them was truly rewarding. Here’s a detailed day-by-day breakdown of our amazing journey through Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. I hope it inspires your own adventure!
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
Our journey began in Tokyo, where everyone met at Hotel Sui Akasaka by Abest. Located in a quiet neighborhood but close to transit, it was a great base for exploring the city. After a free day for travelers to settle in, we gathered for a welcome dinner to kick off our adventure.
Day 2: Exploring Tokyo’s Markets and Art
We started the day with a private food tour at Tsukiji Market, a bustling hub known for its fresh seafood and vibrant atmosphere. Navigating the market can be overwhelming, but booking through Context Travel made it seamless. We sampled market delicacies and even dined at a hidden sushi restaurant — a highlight of the tour! Use code FANCYNANCISTA for 15% off their tours.
Afterward, we wandered around Ginza, Tokyo’s upscale shopping district. In the evening, we visited TeamLab Borderless, an immersive art installation.
Pro tip: Book your tickets on Klook with code FANCYNANCISTAKLOOK for a discount.
Day 3: Rainy Adventures in Tokyo
Despite rainy weather, we made the most of Day 3. We visited Shibuya Sky, but unfortunately, the terrace was closed due to rain. To lift our spirits, we explored Don Quixote, a sprawling store with everything imaginable. Later, we visited the serene Meiji Shrine and capped off the day with vibrant nightlife in Kabukicho, including karaoke, arcade games, and the intimate bars of Golden Gai.
Day 4: Relaxation and Free Time
Day 4 was a free day, perfect for unwinding. I indulged in a luxurious yet affordable 85-minute massage at Erawan Spa near our hotel. Highly recommend it for some mid-trip relaxation!
Day 5: Traveling to Osaka
We took the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Osaka, an effortless 2.5-hour ride. I recommend booking tickets in advance through Klook for convenience. After arriving, we checked into Hotel Kojan, a cozy and centrally located hotel. The evening was spent visiting the Umeda Sky Building (which offers great views of Osaka) and exploring Dōtombori’s vibrant street food scene.
Day 6: Exploring Osaka’s Landmarks and Cuisine
We visited the iconic Osaka Castle, a historic site best appreciated from the outside. The surrounding park and gardens are lovely for a stroll. That evening, some of us joined a tailored food tour via Context Travel, sampling Osaka’s famous dishes like takoyaki and yakiniku. Use code FANCYNANCISTA for 15% off their incredible tours.
Day 7: Super Nintendo World and Birthday Fun
Day 7 was a dream come true as we visited Super Nintendo World (which is an add-on) at Universal Studios Japan. This was a birthday I’ll never forget! The park’s attention to detail was incredible, and I recommend purchasing a priority pass through Klook to skip long lines. The food and attractions exceeded all expectations.
Days 8-9: Kyoto’s Timeless Charm
From Osaka, we took another bullet train to Kyoto, staying at Hotel Ecclesia, a spacious and comfortable choice near transit. Kyoto’s sprawling layout makes transit essential for exploring its iconic sites.
On Day 8, I visited Nishiki Market, known for its affordable and delicious food stalls, and the stunning Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.
On Day 9, we experienced a traditional tea ceremony where we dressed in kimono and learned about Japanese tea culture. This was a truly unique and enriching experience.
Optional Tea Ceremonies:
+ Kyoto Tea Ceremony, Kyoto Tea Museum Tickets and Matcha Grinding
Day 10: Farewell to Japan
Our journey ended with a farewell dinner, reminiscing about our favorite moments. Saying goodbye was bittersweet, but I’m already looking forward to hosting my next group trip.
Final Thoughts
Japan’s blend of tradition, modernity, and warm hospitality makes it a destination like no other. Whether it’s your first visit or your third like me, there’s always something new to discover. Thank you for following along on our journey, and I hope my Ultimate 10-Day Japan Group Travel Itinerary: Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto Adventures inspires your next Japan adventure!
Check out my Group Trip to Madrid and Barcelona here. And for more Japan recommendations – click here! 🙂
Until next time!
Xo,
Nancy
