So you're finally doing it – that first trip to Japan! I remember my own first time stepping off the plane at Haneda, equal parts excited and overwhelmed. Where do you even start in a country that blends ancient temples with neon cities? After multiple trips and plenty of trial-and-error, here's how I'd spend 10 perfect days for a first Japan visit.

This isn't some generic list. We're talking concrete details: exact train routes, reservation tips for popular spots, which passes are worth it, and how to avoid rookie mistakes (like I made). Let's build your dream 10 day itinerary for first time in Japan travelers.

Pre-Trip Essentials: What You Need to Know

Getting this stuff sorted before landing makes everything smoother. Trust me, you don't want to be figuring out WiFi at midnight after a 14-hour flight.

Connectivity & Navigation

Pocket WiFi vs SIM Card? I've done both. If traveling solo, a SIM card (around ¥4,500 for 10 days/unlimited data) is simpler. For groups, pocket WiFi (¥700-900/day) shares the connection.

Google Maps is your lifeline. It shows train schedules, platform numbers, walking times – shockingly accurate. Download offline Tokyo/Kyoto maps as backup.

Money Matters

Japan feels futuristic but runs on cash more than you'd think. Smaller restaurants, temples, markets – many are cash-only. Withdraw ¥10,000-20,000 at airport ATMs (7-Eleven ATMs accept int'l cards).

Credit cards work at hotels, department stores, and chain restaurants. IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) are non-negotiable – load ¥2,000-3,000 for trains/buses/convenience stores.

That JR Pass debate? For this 10 day itinerary first time Japan route, skip it. You'd need to make several long shinkansen trips to break even. Calculate point-to-point tickets first.

My rookie mistake: Overpacking. Japanese hotels are compact. You'll thank yourself for packing light – and leave space for souvenirs.

The Ultimate 10 Day Japan Itinerary: First Time Perfection

This route hits the classics while balancing pace. You want to see Japan, not live on trains.

Days 1-4: Tokyo - Neon Lights & Hidden Alleys

Land at Haneda (HND) if possible – closer to the city than Narita (NRT). Take the Keikyu Line to Shinagawa Station (¥410, 20 mins) then transfer to your hotel area.

Where to Stay: Shinjuku (transport hub, nightlife) or Shimbashi (quieter, great train access). Avoid big luggage during rush hour (7:30-9:30am).

Tokyo eats you gotta try: Ichiran Ramen (¥890, solo booth ramen), Genki Sushi (conveyor belt, ¥150/plate), and convenience store egg sandwiches (trust me).

Honest opinion? Skip the Pokemon Cafe unless you're a superfan. Overpriced and mediocre food. I regretted the time slot booking.

Day 5: Hakone - Fuji Views & Volcano Eggs

Activate your Hakone Free Pass (¥6,100 round-trip from Shinjuku). Covers trains, buses, cable cars, pirate ship cruise.

Route: Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku Station → Hakone-Yumoto → Cable car to Owakudani → Ropeway → Lake Ashi cruise → Bus back.

• Must-do: Eat kuro-tamago (black eggs boiled in sulfur springs) at Owakudani. Said to add 7 years to your life. Tasted like... boiled eggs.
• Fuji Viewing: Weather-dependent. Mornings often clearer. Check live cams before heading up.

Stay at a ryokan if budget allows (¥20,000+/person with kaiseki dinner). Or return to Tokyo that night.

Days 6-7: Kyoto - Geishas & Golden Pavilions

Shinkansen from Tokyo Station → Kyoto Station (¥13,500, 2h15m). Nozomi trains fastest (not covered by JR Pass).

Where to Stay: Near Kyoto Station (convenient) or Gion (atmospheric). Book months ahead – Kyoto fills fast.

Kyoto transport tip: Buy a ¥1,100 bus day pass. Single rides add up fast. Navigating bus routes is easier than it looks – English displays inside.

Kyoto bites: Try yudofu (tofu hotpot) near temples. Nishiki Market is touristy but fun for samples (9am-5pm, go hungry).

Real talk: Kiyomizu-dera was under scaffolding last time I went. Check renovation schedules. Still beautiful, but photos suffer.

Days 8-9: Osaka - Street Food & Castle Views

Kyoto to Osaka is a breeze: JR Special Rapid Service (¥560, 30 mins) to Osaka Station. Drop bags at hotel.

Where to Stay: Namba (Dotonbori action) or Umeda (more upscale, great transit).

• Osaka Castle: Impressive from outside. Interior is a modern museum (¥600, 9am-5pm). Best photos from Nishinomaru Garden (¥200).
• Dotonbori: Go hungry. Must-tries: Takoyaki (octopus balls) at Creo-ru (¥600), Kushikatsu (fried skewers) at Daruma. Insane neon signs at night.
• Shinsekai: Retro district under Tsutenkaku Tower. Feels frozen in time. Great for cheap eats.

Day trip option: Universal Studios Japan (book tickets online, arrive at opening). Harry Potter area gets insane queues.

Day 10: Departure & Last-Minute Wonders

If flying from Kansai Airport (KIX):

• Haruka Express from Shin-Osaka Station (¥1,880, 50 mins)
• Nankai Rapi:t from Namba Station (¥1,450, 35 mins)

Got time before your flight? Hit Kuromon Ichiba Market ("Osaka's Kitchen") near Namba. Fresh seafood, street food gifts. Open 9am-6pm (some stalls close Wed).

That konbini (convenience store) meal you've been meaning to try? Now's the time. Grab a ¥300 onigiri for the ride.

Japan First Timer FAQ: Stuff You're Wondering

Based on years of forum lurking and personal facepalms.

Is 10 days in Japan enough for first visit?

Enough for a taste, never enough to see it all. This 10 day itinerary first time Japan route balances Tokyo's buzz with Kyoto's tradition and Osaka's flavor. You'll leave craving more – that's the point.

What months make the best 10 day trip to Japan?

Cherry blossoms (late March-early April) and autumn colors (November) are magical but packed and pricey. My sweet spot? Late October (colors start) or May (post-Golden Week). Avoid rainy June/July unless you love humidity.

How much cash should I carry daily?

Budget ¥8,000-12,000/day per person excluding hotels. That covers meals, sights, local transport, small souvenirs. Bigger expenses (department stores, nice restaurants) take cards.

Can I use credit cards everywhere?

Surprisingly no. Rural areas, small eateries, temples, markets often cash-only. Always have ¥5,000-10,000 on you. 7-Eleven ATMs are everywhere and accept foreign cards.

Is the language barrier a problem?

Not in cities. Signs have English, train announcements are bilingual. Learn basics: "Arigato" (thank you), "Sumimasen" (excuse me/sorry), "Eigo no menyu arimasu ka?" (English menu?). Pointing works fine. Japanese people are incredibly helpful even with language gaps – I've had folks walk me to destinations!

Should I tip in Japan?

No tipping culture. It can confuse or even offend. Pay the exact price. Good service is standard.

What about luggage forwarding?

Takkyubin is genius. Send big bags between hotels via Yamato (¥1,500-2,500/bag). Available at airports/convenience stores. Pack a small overnight bag for Hakone. Saves train station struggles.

Critical Japan Travel Tips I Learned Hard Way

• Temple Etiquette: Bow slightly before entering gates. Wash hands/mouth at chozuya (water pavilion) using ladle – left hand, right hand, mouth (don't drink!), then ladle handle. Don't photograph prayer areas.
• Onsen Rules: Shower thoroughly before entering. No swimsuits – tattoos often banned (check ahead). Don't wash in the bath. Tie long hair up. Relax!
• Shoes Off: Homes, ryokans, temples, some restaurants. Look for shoe racks or genkan (entry step). Slippers provided – but step out of them onto tatami mats.
• Trash Bins: Rare in public! Carry a small bag. Recycle at convenience stores (separate bins for cans/bottles/paper).
• Trains: No eating/drinking on local trains. Quiet phones. Priority seats – don't use them unless eligible. JR Pass holders must use manual gates (show pass to staff).

My biggest culture shock? How quiet public transport is. First time I sneezed on a Tokyo train, I swear everyone stared. Keep voice volume down.

Final Thoughts for Your First Time Japan 10 Day Trip

Planning this feels overwhelming, I know. But once you're there? Pure magic. That first bite of perfect ramen, the smell of incense at Sensoji, the organized chaos of Shibuya Crossing – it stays with you.

Don't over-schedule. Leave gaps for jet lag recovery or getting lost down that intriguing alley. Some of my best Japan moments were unplanned: stumbling upon a tiny izakaya in Kyoto, chatting with a craftsman in Asakusa, watching salarymen nap on a train. That's the real Japan.

This 10 day itinerary for first time in Japan travelers hits the icons while keeping you sane. Adjust it – swap Osaka days for Nara deer parks or Hiroshima if that calls to you. Make it yours.

Just go. Book the flight. Japan’s waiting – and it’s worth every confused train map moment, every "sumimasen" you fumble. Your perfect 10 day Japan first time adventure starts now.