Neha Sharma
Asia-Pacific Travel Expert
Japan is a country of breathtaking contrasts — ultramodern skyscrapers beside ancient wooden temples, bullet trains racing past snow-capped Mount Fuji, and world-class ramen around every corner. A 10-day Kyoto–Tokyo trip is the classic introduction, and this guide will help you plan every detail.
Best Time to Visit Japan
Spring (late March–mid April) is the most popular time for **cherry blossom season (sakura)** — arguably the most beautiful sight in Japan. Autumn (October–November) offers **stunning red and gold foliage (koyo)** with fewer crowds than spring. Summer (June–August) is hot and humid with the monsoon in June–July. Winter (December–February) is cold but clear — perfect for seeing Mount Fuji and visiting onsen (hot spring) resorts.
Pro Tip
Cherry blossom season peaks in late March to early April in Kyoto and Tokyo. Book flights and accommodation 4–6 months in advance as this is the busiest travel period in Japan.
10-Day Kyoto & Tokyo Itinerary
Day-by-Day Plan
| Day | City | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Tokyo | Arrive, Shinjuku orientation, Shibuya crossing, ramen dinner |
| Day 2 | Tokyo | Senso-ji temple (Asakusa), teamLab Planets, Akihabara |
| Day 3 | Tokyo | Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Omotesando, Shibuya Sky rooftop |
| Day 4 | Hakone/Mt Fuji | Day trip: Mt Fuji views, Lake Ashi, ryokan stay |
| Day 5 | Kyoto | Shinkansen to Kyoto, Gion district, Nishiki Market |
| Day 6 | Kyoto | Fushimi Inari torii gates (6am for sunrise), Arashiyama bamboo grove |
| Day 7 | Kyoto | Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Ryoan-ji rock garden, tea ceremony |
| Day 8 | Nara/Osaka | Nara deer park and Todai-ji, evening in Osaka Dotonbori |
| Day 9 | Osaka | Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, Takoyaki, Shinsekai |
| Day 10 | Tokyo | Shinkansen back, last shopping in Ginza, evening flight |
Visa for Indian Passport Holders
Indian citizens require a **Japan Tourist Visa** in advance. Apply through the Japan Embassy or authorised visa agents in India. Required documents include a valid passport, confirmed hotel bookings, return flight ticket, and bank statement showing sufficient funds (~¥10,000/day). Processing takes 5–7 working days. The visa is free of charge.
Getting Around Japan
- **IC Card (Suica/Pasmo)** — rechargeable transit card for all trains, subways, and buses; also accepted at convenience stores
- **JR Pass** — unlimited Shinkansen travel; buy before arriving in Japan. 7-day pass costs ~$300, worth it for Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka route
- **Shinkansen** — bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto takes ~2h 15m; to Osaka ~2h 30m
- **Tokyo Metro** — efficient and cheap for city travel; Google Maps works perfectly for navigation
- **Taxis** — expensive; use only when no other option
Japan Food Guide
- **Ramen** — try Ichiran (Tokyo) for tonkotsu; Kyoto ramen has a lighter, more delicate broth
- **Sushi & Sashimi** — Tsukiji Outer Market (Tokyo) for the freshest morning sushi
- **Tempura** — best in Kyoto's Gion district and Osaka's Dotonbori
- **Okonomiyaki** — Japanese savoury pancake; a must in Osaka
- **Wagyu beef** — splurge at a Kobe or Matsusaka beef restaurant
- **Convenience store food** — 7-Eleven and FamilyMart onigiri, sandwiches, and hot food are genuinely excellent
Budget Guide
Daily Cost in Japan
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | ¥3,000–6,000 | ¥10,000–20,000 | ¥30,000–80,000 |
| Meals | ¥1,500–3,000 | ¥4,000–8,000 | ¥12,000–30,000 |
| Transport | ¥1,000–2,000 | ¥2,000–5,000 | ¥5,000–15,000 |
| Activities | ¥500–2,000 | ¥3,000–6,000 | ¥8,000–20,000 |
| Total (approx ₹) | ₹3,500–7,000 | ₹12,000–28,000 | ₹40,000–1,00,000 |