I’ve always seen Japan as a country that beautifully blends tradition with innovation, and our three weeks there proved this in so many ways—through its culture, cuisine, and architecture. Every aspect of Japan fascinated us, making it a true feast for the senses. If you plan a 3-week Japan Itinerary, prepare for an unforgettable experience. From the lively streets of Osaka to Tokyo’s dazzling neon skyline, Japan offers memories that will stay with you long after you return home.
I’m excited to share this complete and comprehensive 3-week Japan itinerary that will help you make the most of your trip.
Week 1: Osaka, Nara, Kobe, and Kyoto
Days 1-3: Osaka
Day 1
We felt that Osaka doesn’t get the attention it truly deserves. Known for the iconic Osaka Castle, Universal Studios, and its incredible food scene, this vibrant city is worth much more than just a quick stopover.
Start your 3 week Japan itinerary in Osaka’s vibrant Dotonbori district. Although it can get crowded, it’s a paradise for food lovers. Don’t miss out on local favorites like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes)—they’re popular for a reason!
Next, stroll along the canal and soak in the vibrant, neon-lit atmosphere. Be sure to check out the iconic Glico sign—a quick Google search will show you the exact spot for snapping that Insta-worthy photo.
End your day in Shinsaibashi, located in the heart of Osaka. This lively district offers something for everyone. On the main street, you’ll find luxury stores, while the nearby Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street—a 600-meter covered arcade—features a mix of vintage, second-hand shops, and traditional Japanese stores. This is where we began our shopping escapades in Japan—it was impossible to resist all the cool finds at the second-hand shops.
Don’t miss America-mura, Osaka’s trendy shopping and entertainment hub, popular with young locals. The name “America-mura” harks back to its origins as a place for American imports, but today it blends Japanese and Western styles, showcasing Osaka’s love for global, and more specifically American trends.
Day 2
Start your day with a visit to Osaka Castle. The castle grounds are vast, so give yourself plenty of time to explore. We arrived later than planned and didn’t have enough time to see everything, so plan to make the most of your visit. Don’t miss the climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of the city.
In the afternoon, head to the Umeda Sky Building for breathtaking views of Osaka from its impressive observatory. Alternatively, you can unwind at one of the many rooftop bars, often located in hotels, where you can soak in the city’s atmosphere. This district also captures Osaka’s nostalgic charm with its colorful signboards and billboards that evoke a sense of the “good old days”.
End your day in the Shinsekai area, famous for its retro vibe, and the 103-meter-tall Tsutenkaku Tower, a popular Osaka landmark. The lively atmosphere here is a mix of locals and tourists, so be prepared for bustling crowds. The area is packed with restaurants and quirky souvenir shops, making it a must-visit. Be sure to try kushikatsu, a popular street food featuring deep-fried skewers of meat, fish, or vegetables—it’s a true local favorite!
If you’re planning to explore the best of Osaka’s food scene, make sure to check out this guide for the top places to eat and discover local favorites.
Day 3: Day Trip to Nara
Nara Park is one of Japan’s most iconic spots, known for its freely roaming deer and beautiful scenery. The friendly deer are considered sacred and roam freely throughout the park, and you can feed them. Vendors at various park entrances sell “shika senbei” (deer crackers), which are safe for the deer to eat.
Start your visit by exploring Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns. Then, head to Todaiji Temple, home to one of Japan’s largest Buddha statues.
In the afternoon, take a stroll through the peaceful Isui-en Garden before heading back to Osaka. This place was one of the quietest we visited in the park, and it felt good to escape the crowds for a minute.
This full-day walking tour offers a personalized experience through the city’s famous sites, including the Todaiji Temple and Nara Park
Is Nara Park free to visit?
Yes, the entrance to the park is free. You can enjoy walking through the park without any cost. However, Nara’s several attractions have separate entrance fees, including the temples, and museums. The fees are very affordable, so even if you’re on a tight budget, we recommend visiting as many of these attractions as possible, as each one offers something unique.
Here’s how to get to Nara from Osaka:
To get from Osaka to Nara, take the JR Yamatoji Line train from Osaka Station to JR Nara Station. The trip takes about 50 minutes. A one-way ticket costs ¥820 per person. You can buy tickets at the station or use an IC card like Suica or ICOCA. Don’t worry about booking in advance – trains run frequently, so you can simply show up at the station and hop on the next available train.
Day 4: Day Trip to Kobe
Today, venture to the port city of Kobe. Kobe is the birthplace of the world-famous Kobe beef, known for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture (we can attest to that!). Although the beef comes from Tajima cattle raised across the entire Hyogo Prefecture, Kobe is where it all began and remains the best place to enjoy this special delicacy.
In Kobe, start your day at the Kitano-cho area, known for its 19th-century Western-style mansions. The area has a unique atmosphere, with small cafes, boutiques, and museums. Kitano-cho also offers great views of Kobe from its slightly elevated position. It’s a lovely area to stroll around, soak in the architecture, and take some Instagram-worthy photos. Then head to the famous Steakhouse Kobe for lunch to savor a sensational Kobe beef.
In the afternoon, visit Kobe Harborland, a shopping and entertainment complex with great views of the port. It’s a nice spot to grab a drink or wander around at your own pace. That said, it didn’t leave a lasting impression on us, so if you’re short on time, consider skipping it.
Here’s how to get to Kobe from Osaka:
To get to Kobe from Osaka, take the JR Special Rapid Service from Osaka Station to Sannomiya Station in Kobe. The journey takes about 20 minutes, and the one-way fare is ¥460.
Days 5-8: Kyoto
This is the time on your 3-week Japan itinerary to say goodbye to Osaka and head to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. Kyoto was hands down the highlight of our trip, and we’re happy we spent enough time seeing all the beautiful sights while also allowing ourselves to slow down and embrace the local culture.
Day 5
Begin your Kyoto adventure at the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). We found the shimmering gold-leaf pavilion reflected in the tranquil pond to be an unforgettable sight. Even with the crowds, the serene gardens and the pavilion’s reflection create a peaceful and calming atmosphere.
Next, visit the nearby Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its peaceful rock garden, a simple yet beautiful design of 15 rocks surrounded by white gravel. The arrangement is intriguing, as you can never see all 15 rocks at once from any angle. The temple grounds also have a lovely pond and a calm atmosphere, making it a great place to relax and experience Japanese culture.
In the afternoon, visit the Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and the famous ‘nightingale floors’ that chirp when walked upon, designed to alert guards of intruders. Unfortunately, we missed this bit of information when planning our visit, so we explored the grounds but didn’t enter the castle itself. Nevertheless, we had fun strolling around and enjoying the scenery. We visited during sunset, and the castle looked stunning bathed in golden light. So, if you include this in your itinerary, we highly recommend visiting at sunset.
Day 6
Dedicate the morning to exploring Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. As one of Japan’s top attractions—and arguably one of the most famous in the world!
Our tip: arrive as early as possible to avoid the crowds. Many visitors hike up the mountain for breathtaking views of Kyoto, though we chose not to do so.
In the afternoon, explore the Arashiyama district and the famous Bamboo Forest. Upon exiting the train station, follow the signs (or the crowds) toward the Bamboo Forest. Along the way, you’ll pass a complex of small temples, the most notable being Tenryu-ji Temple, one of Kyoto’s most important temples and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located next to the Bamboo Forest, this temple requires a small entry fee. The designated paths will naturally lead you to the Bamboo Forest.
While we enjoyed this attraction, we recommend taking the path that crosses the park and leads to the Katsura River. We loved exploring this area! Along the riverbanks, you’ll find several restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a meal or a beverage. When you’re ready to return to the train station, take the one from Arashiyama Station, which passes through the colorful Kimono Forest. This vibrant display of fabric-covered poles, designed to resemble traditional kimonos, is especially magical when lit up in the evening.
Day 7
Start your day early and wander through the historic Gion district, Kyoto’s famous geisha area. This entire neighborhood feels like stepping back in time, with highlights like the Ninenzaka pedestrian alley and the Sannen-Zaka Path. We first visited in the early afternoon and were overwhelmed by the crowds, which made the experience less enjoyable. The next day, we returned at sunrise, and it was the best decision we made!
The area was practically deserted, with just a few people around. We took our time exploring, soaking in the beautiful scenery and architecture of the unique buildings, and taking photos. By the time we reached the Kiyomizu-dera temple, the crowds had started to gather, but we still enjoyed the exceptional views of Kyoto from the top.
Day 8
On your last day in Kyoto enjoy your day in the morning with a meditative walk along the Philosopher’s Path, a cherry-tree-lined canal path that’s particularly beautiful in spring and autumn. This whole area is much quieter than the rest of the popular attractions in Kyoto, which we loved. Don’t miss a visit to Nanzen-ji Temple, known for its impressive aqueduct, tranquil gardens, and beautiful architecture. The whole area is very picturesque and best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, allowing time to appreciate the natural beauty and the hidden gems of the area.
Make sure to stop for lunch at You Go Curry, a Japanese curry restaurant. We had one of the best meals in Kyoto right here and we can’t recommend it enough!
TIP: Consider staying in a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) for at least one night during your Kyoto stay. You’ll sleep on futons laid out on tatami mats and enjoy a multi-course kaiseki dinner. It’s a wonderful way to experience traditional Japanese hospitality.
Kyoto is a city rich in history, with its countless temples, shrines, and traditional attractions spread across the area. To make the most of your visit, consider joining a Kyoto Day Tour that takes you to the city’s most popular shrines and cultural sites.
Here’s how to get to Kyoto from Osaka:
The JR Special Rapid Service is your best option for traveling from Osaka Station to Kyoto Station. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs ¥580 one-way.
Week 2: Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go, and Nagano
Your second week takes you north to Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go, and Nagano where you’ll be exploring a perfect blend of traditional Japanese charm and stunning natural beauty. From the beautifully preserved Edo-period districts of Kanazawa to the picturesque, thatched-roof villages of Shirakawa-go, and the serene mountains of Nagano, each location offers its own unique experiences.
Days 9-10: Kanazawa
It’s time to head to Kanazawa, often called “Little Kyoto” for its well-preserved historical districts. Famous for its beautifully preserved Edo-period districts, such as the historic Higashi Chaya District, and the stunning Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s top three gardens. You can also explore the Kanazawa Castle, and traditional markets like Omicho Market, and experience local arts, including gold leaf crafts.
Day 9
Start your Kanazawa exploration at Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan’s three great gardens. The garden is beautiful in all seasons, with special nighttime illuminations in winter. We visited during Autumn when the vibrant red and yellow foliage took over and it was stunning!
Then wander around the charming little alleys of the city to take in the wonderful architecture of the well-preserved traditional houses. These houses can be spotted densely in the Higashi Chaya District, which is the most popular area in Kanazawa. This part of Kanazawa feels as if you’ve stepped back in time with its tiny alleys dotted with numerous traditional restaurants and tiny bars.
NOTE: Kanazawa is the only place in Japan where we felt that we couldn’t get into some of the restaurants because we were foreigners. After speaking with a couple of locals, we confirmed that some restaurants and bars are reluctant to welcome tourists because they want to maintain the authentic, local atmosphere of their dining experience. This was based on our own experience, and it’s possible we were simply unlucky, or the places we checked out were fully booked. If you’re interested in a particular restaurant, it’s best to book a table in advance to avoid any last-minute disappointments.
Next, visit Kanazawa Castle Park and the adjacent Gyokusen’inmaru Garden. The castle is particularly beautiful at sunset, as the mesmerizing colors of the sky add even more charm to this imposing structure.
When you’re done exploring the castle, make your way to the adjacent Katamachi area where you’ll find a shopping mall selling luxury goods, quaint boutiques, and stores selling vintage and secondhand clothes.
Day 10
Dedicate this morning to the Higashi Chaya district, where you can see well-preserved geisha houses. Some are open to the public as museums or teahouses. Make sure to book in advance if you want to experience a traditional tea ceremony. This experience is great!
Here’s how to get from Kyoto to Kanazawa
The JR Thunderbird Limited Express departs from Kyoto Station to Kanazawa Station, taking approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with a one-way reserved seat costing ¥7,720. Tickets can be purchased at the station or online via JR East Reservation. We recommend booking in advance for reserved seats.
Day 11: Day Trip to Shirakawa-go
Take a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go, famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
Explore the village on foot, visiting some of the farmhouses that are open to the public. The Wada House is particularly interesting, showcasing the unique architecture of these buildings designed to withstand heavy snowfall.
End your visit by heading to the Shiroyama Viewpoint for a panoramic view of the village. It’s a bit of an uphill climb, but nothing too tiring or difficult.
Here’s how to get to Shirakawa-go from Kanazawa:
To get to Shirakawa-go from Kanazawa, you can take the Nohi Bus which departs from Kanazawa Station. The ride takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, with a one-way ticket costing ¥2,600. The tickets can be purchased at the station or online in advance, and booking ahead is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Discover Shirakawa-go and Kanazawa’s best sights on a guided day tour, including Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, and the Higashi Chaya District.
Days 12-13: Nagano and Snow Monkey Park
Next, you’ll head to Nagano, famous for hosting the 1998 Winter Olympics and even more popular for its proximity to the beloved Snow Monkey Park. This unique experience is a highlight of any detailed 3-week Japan itinerary.
Day 12
Upon arrival in Nagano, visit the historic Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most important Buddhist temples. In the afternoon, explore the charming Nakamise shopping street leading up to the temple.
Here’s how to get to Nagano from Kanazawa:
To get to Nagano from Kanazawa, take the Limited Express (Shinkansen) from Kanazawa Station to Nagano Station via the Hokuriku Shinkansen. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes and costs around ¥8,920 for a one-way reserved seat. Tickets can be purchased at the station or online via JR East. Booking reserved seats in advance is recommended.
Day 13
Today, you’ll visit the famous Snow Monkey Park where you can watch the Japanese macaques bathe in the hot springs, a behavior unique to this troop of monkeys. The park is beautiful year-round, but particularly picturesque in winter when snow covers the ground. The atmosphere at Snow Monkey Park is peaceful and magical, with playful snow monkeys wandering in a serene forest setting. The combination of steam rising from the hot springs and monkeys covered in snow creates a unique and heartwarming scene that feels like a winter wonderland. We didn’t have the luck of experiencing this place with snow, but the autumn foliage was equally perfect for us.
We highly recommend this tour for a hustle-free experience in Nagano and the Snow Monkey Park.
Here’s how to get to the Snow Monkey Park from Nagano:
To get to the Snow Monkey Park from Nagano, take a train from Nagano Station to Yudanaka Station (45 minutes, ¥1,300 one way), followed by a 15-minute bus ride from Yudanaka Station to the park (¥310 one way). Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from Nagano to Snow Monkey Park. From the park entrance, it’s a 30-minute hike to the pool where the monkeys gather.
Week 3: Tokyo and Mount Fuji
Days 14-18: Tokyo
Your final week of the 3-week Japan itinerary takes you to Tokyo, Japan’s capital and one of the largest, most exciting cities in the world, along with its most iconic mountain. Tokyo is a city of endless discovery, with every street offering something new and fascinating. It’s a haven for fashion lovers (we shopped till we dropped), where you’ll find everything from trendsetting styles to high-end boutiques and charming vintage shops. The energy here is infectious—you can feel it in the bustling streets, lively markets, and vibrant nightlife.
Here’s how to get to Tokyo from Nagano:
To get to Tokyo from Nagano, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Nagano Station to Tokyo Station, which takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, costs around ¥8,400 for a one-way reserved seat, and can be booked at the station or online via JR East Reservation. We highly recommend that you reserve your seats in advance.
Day 14
Start your Tokyo adventure in the vibrant district of Shibuya and witness the organized chaos of the famous Shibuya Crossing. There are several spots where you can watch the crossing from above, with the most popular being the Starbucks café in the Shibuya Scramble Square building and Magnet by Shibuya 109. Note that the latter requires an entrance fee. If we’re being honest, this spot didn’t live up to our expectations, we felt that it was similar to other big crossings across Tokyo and due to its popularity, it was extremely crowded and hectic.
Then explore the nearby Harajuku area, known for its colorful street art and quirky fashion trends. Then make your way to Cat Street, which is located between Harajuku and Shibuya. This charming pedestrian street is known for its boutique shops, vintage stores, and unique fashion outlets.
Day 15
Today you can head to Shinjuku and explore one of Tokyo’s most vibrant and exciting districts, known for its lively entertainment scene. It’s filled with bars, restaurants, karaoke spots, and nightclubs, especially in Kabukicho, Tokyo’s famous red-light district and nightlife hub.
Then, stroll through, the tiny alleys of Golden Gai, renowned for its cozy, atmospheric bars, each with its unique character and charm. Keep in mind that some of the bars here don’t let tourists in, but this is still a great place to explore due to its picturesque alleyways.
While in this area, don’t miss out on the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. It’s a peaceful and beautiful place to relax, with large lawns, ponds, and colorful flowers. The garden blends traditional Japanese, English, and French garden styles, offering a great escape from the city’s bustling streets.
Next stroll through Omoide Yokocho, a charming narrow alley packed with tiny eateries that serve classic Japanese street food, such as yakitori, ramen, and grilled seafood. The area is steeped in nostalgia, with its retro vibe and lantern-lit pathways offering a glimpse into Tokyo’s post-war era. It’s a great spot to enjoy delicious food, mingle with locals, and experience a more traditional side of Tokyo.
End your day with a visit to a rooftop bar; a fantastic way to take in Tokyo’s stunning night views. A city of this size offers a skyline like no other, which made this a must-do experience for us.
Day 16
As your 3-week Japan itinerary slowly concludes, dedicate this day to visiting the world-renowned teamLab Planets. This is a one-of-a-kind art museum where you step into immersive, interactive exhibits that blend art, technology, and nature. We had an amazing time during our visit, where we walked through water, touched glowing orbs, and felt like we were part of the artwork. This is one of the most popular experiences to do in Tokyo, so reserving your spot in advance is strongly recommended.
Make sure you book an early morning spot so to avoid the crowds!
Dedicate the rest of your day to exploring Akihabara, a paradise for fans of anime, manga, and electronics, and experience the otaku culture. Even if you’re not into anime and manga, the energy of this part of Tokyo is undeniable, so a visit here is an experience in itself. Visit a maid cafe, if you’re looking for an escape into an anime-inspired world. They are a quirky and lighthearted part of Tokyo’s unique pop culture scene.
Day 17
Start your day early with a visit to Asakusa to see the impressive Senso-ji Temple, then follow the path that leads to Nakamise shopping street. This bustling street is lined with colorful shops selling souvenirs, snacks, and handcrafted goods. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and unique memorabilia.
Before you leave, head to the Asakusa Culture and Information Center and take the lift to the top floor for a chance to enjoy stunning views of the area. Best of all, the entrance is free!
Day 18
Begin at the famous Ginza, one of the most famous shopping districts in Tokyo known for its luxury stores, stylish cafes, and elegant atmosphere. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s great for a leisurely walk, as the area is full of modern buildings, art galleries, and restaurants. You can also find traditional stores that sell unique Japanese items.
The first Uniqlo store was founded here in 1984 and still stands today as a landmark for brand fans. When we visited, there was a huge line to get in, but since we didn’t want to wait, we decided to visit another store in a different area instead.
In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing walk through the Hamarikyu Gardens. It’s a peaceful escape from the busy city, with beautiful ponds, traditional tea houses, and walking paths surrounded by nature. The gardens offer a lovely blend of Japanese tradition and modern city views, especially with the tall buildings nearby. In the center of the garden, there is a traditional tea house that we highly recommend. It’s a great spot to relax, enjoy a cup of tea, and take in the scenery.
Days 19-20: Mount Fuji
Day 19
Your 3-week Japan itinerary is almost complete, but there’s one more must-see destination: Mount Fuji, Japan’s tallest and most famous mountain. No trip to Japan is truly complete without visiting it. There are many ways to experience Mount Fuji—whether by hiking, taking a scenic drive, or simply enjoying the view from a distance. Whatever way you choose to see it, it’ll be an unforgettable experience!
We took a day trip from Tokyo to Kawaguchi Lake and enjoyed the view from the many viewpoints around the lake. That said, we recommend renting a car and staying a couple of nights at a traditional ryokan. Having your car will allow you to explore the area at your own pace and visit all five lakes and various viewpoints.
Many visitors combine a visit to Mount Fuji with a visit to Hakone. However, we decided to spend more days in Tokyo instead.
Day 20: Back to Tokyo
Return to Tokyo for your final day. Use this time to do any last-minute shopping, revisit favorite spots, or explore areas you missed earlier. This is the perfect way to conclude your 3-week Japan adventure.
Day 21: Catch your flight back home
Your trip to Japan has come to an end. We hope our “3 Week Japan Itinerary” helped you plan the perfect journey and that you’re heading home with a bag full of memories (and souvenirs).
Additional information to know when planning your 3-week Japan itinerary
Is Japan Expensive?
Based on our research, before visiting Japan, we expected it to be pricey. However, to be honest, that wasn’t the case during our trip. Our accommodation costs an average of about 120€ a night, though this varies depending on the type of place you choose. Food was surprisingly affordable, especially since we often ate at local restaurants or grabbed meals from convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart. Entrance fees to attractions were also reasonably priced.
Japan Rail Pass vs Individual Tickets: Which Option Saves You More?
During our 3 weeks in Japan, the only relatively high expense we faced was the cost of train tickets. After comparing the Japan Rail Pass with individual tickets, we found that buying individual tickets was more cost-effective, particularly given the recent price increases for the Japan Rail Pass. By the end of our trip, we did a final cost comparison between point-to-point tickets and the Japan Rail Pass, and it became clear that individual tickets saved us more overall.
Is Japan Safe?
Japan is considered one of the safest countries in the world, especially for tourists. Crime rates are low, but as with any country, it’s always smart to be aware of your surroundings. We felt very safe in all the places we visited and the people we met were very kind and welcoming.
What’s the Best Time to Visit Japan?
Japan is great year-round, but each season offers something unique and different. Spring (March to May) is famous for cherry blossoms, and autumn (September to November) for colorful foliage; this is when we visited and we had an absolute blast! Summer (June to August) has many festivals and events, however, the humidity levels and temperature can get uncomfortably high. While winter (December to February) is perfect for skiing and hot springs.
Do I Need a Visa for Japan?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and most European nations, do not need a visa to stay for up to 90 days for tourism. However, it is essential to check the most up-to-date regulations before planning your trip.
Is it okay to wear shoes inside in Japan?
In Japan, you usually remove your shoes before entering homes, traditional inns, some restaurants, and parts of temples and castles. You’ll often see an entrance area where you should remove your shoes.
How Do I Use an Onsen in Japan?
Onsen (hot springs) are a big part of Japanese culture. Remember to wash before entering the bath, enter naked (no swimsuits allowed), and don’t let your small towel touch the water.
Final Thoughts: Exploring Japan in 3 Weeks
This three-week Japan travel guide provides a perfect balance of iconic destinations, cultural immersion, and unique experiences. Whether you’re marveling at Kyoto’s temples, exploring Kanazawa’s Edo-period charm, or soaking in the bustling energy of Tokyo, this itinerary ensures you make the most of your three weeks in Japan.
Ready to kick off your trip planning? Check out these handy travel resources: