3 min readVinayak GuptaReviewed by Simran Raheja, Product Manager · SEO and Content, Tripmojo

Trip Idea

Japan's Golden Route: Cities, Culture & Charm

Tokyo → Osaka → Hiroshima → Kyoto → Tokyo

Japan's Golden Route: Cities, Culture & Charm

Route

Tokyo → Osaka → Hiroshima → Kyoto → Tokyo

Duration

13 nights

Best time

March–May or September–November

From

from ~$3,500/person · est.

Quick answer

This trip covers Tokyo → Osaka → Hiroshima → Kyoto → Tokyo over 13 nights and is best from March–May or September–November. Open it in Tripmojo to customise the days, stays and activities and plan it together with everyone travelling.

About this trip

Embark on an unforgettable two-week adventure across Japan, from the neon glow of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto and the poignant history of Hiroshima. This journey blends vibrant city life, ancient traditions, and unique island escapes.

Places to visit

Hiroshima
Hiroshima

Itinerary

  1. Tokyo

    1 night

    Begin your Japanese adventure in the bustling capital, settling in after your flight and preparing for the exciting journey ahead.

  2. Osaka

    2 nights

    Experience Osaka's vibrant street food culture and historic grandeur, exploring lively entertainment hubs and tranquil spiritual sites.

  3. Hiroshima

    2 nights

    Reflect on history in Hiroshima, then discover the unique charm of 'Rabbit Island' and the iconic 'floating' torii gate of Miyajima.

  4. Kyoto

    3 nights

    Step into Japan's imperial past in Kyoto, wandering through ancient temples, enchanting bamboo groves, and vibrant traditional markets, with a spiritual day trip to Nara.

  5. Tokyo

    5 nights

    Return to Tokyo to delve deeper into its dynamic blend of ancient traditions and futuristic marvels, from bustling districts to serene shrines and world-class entertainment.

Good to know

  • 🚄JR PassConsider the JR Pass for extensive train travel; book seats in advance for guaranteed spots.
  • 🍜DiningMany restaurants are small; make reservations or arrive early for popular spots to secure seating.
  • 🚇TransportationUse Google Maps for efficient navigation; Suica/PASMO/ICOCA cards are convenient for local transit (Mastercard recommended for reloads).
  • 🛅Luggage StorageUtilize station coin lockers for luggage, especially when visiting hilly cities like Kobe or for short excursions, but remember the 3-day limit.

Frequently asked questions

How many days is this Japan itinerary?

This itinerary runs 13 nights across 5 stops — Tokyo → Osaka → Hiroshima → Kyoto → Tokyo. You can shorten or extend it in the Tripmojo app.

When is the best time for this trip?

The best time for this Japan is March–May or September–November.

How much does this trip cost?

A rough budget is $3,500–5,500/person, excluding international flights. The exact cost depends on the season, hotels and activities you choose.

What places does this itinerary include?

Highlights include Dotonbori, Osaka Castle, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Itsukushima Shrine (Miyajima), Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Fushimi Inari Taisha, plus the stops and activities in the day-by-day plan above.

Can I customise this itinerary?

Yes. Open it in the Tripmojo app to change the days, hotels, activities and pace, add flights and stays, and plan it together with everyone on the trip.

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Vinayak GuptaTravel Writer, Tripmojo
Vinayak Gupta writes about destinations and trip planning at Tripmojo, from must-see spots to the best time to go. Keeps guides specific, honest and easy to follow.

Compiled from Tripmojo’s curated trip data and reviewed by our editorial team before publishing.

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Japan's Golden Route: Cities, Culture & Charm · Tripmojo