GoRoam

Japan · Ready-made itinerary

5 Day Tokyo & Kyoto Itinerary (First Trip to Japan)

Five days is tight for Japan, so this plan splits it between neon Tokyo and temple Kyoto, linked by the shinkansen.

Length
5 days
Budget for two
$3,200 incl. stays
Best time
Mar – May
Pace
Balanced

Who it suits: First-time visitors to Japan who want both the city and traditional sides.

  1. Day 1: Arrival and First Impressions

    • 9:00 AM · Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa
    • 1:00 PM · Tsukiji Outer Market, Tsukiji
    • 6:00 PM · Shibuya Crossing, Shibuya

  2. Day 2: Cultural Exploration

    • 9:00 AM · Meiji Shrine, Shibuya
    • 1:00 PM · Harajuku Takeshita Street, Harajuku
    • 6:00 PM · Omoide Yokocho, Shinjuku

  3. Day 3: From Tokyo to Kyoto

    • 9:00 AM · Shinkansen to Kyoto, Tokyo Station
    • 1:00 PM · Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Kyoto
    • 6:00 PM · Pontocho Alley, Gion

  4. Day 4: A Day of Temples and Traditions

    • 9:00 AM · Fushimi Inari Taisha, Fushimi
    • 1:00 PM · Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Arashiyama
    • 6:00 PM · Dinner at Gion Karyo, Gion

  5. Day 5: Final Day in Kyoto

    • 9:00 AM · Nijo Castle, Nijo
    • 1:00 PM · Kyoto Market, Nishiki
    • 6:00 PM · Gion Corner, Gion
Trip gallery

5 days · GoRoam travel package · Couple

Tokyo & Kyoto

Discover the enchanting blend of modernity and tradition in Japan's most iconic cities. From ancient temples to bustling markets, this trip promises a memorable first experience.

Make it mine

From

Anywhere

to Tokyo & Kyoto

Travellers

2 travellers

2 adults

Pace

Balanced

Comfort spending

Staying in

Hotel

4 nights

Into

Iconic sights, Food & drink

+2 more

Don't miss

The big moments.

4 highlights · tap one to see its day

Where to stay

Pick your base.

Hand-picked for a hotel stay · Nov 19 Nov 23

01$140/ night

Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

Shinjuku· Boutique hotel

Centrally located with easy access to transport and attractions, ideal for first-time visitors.

Check dates on Agoda Map
02$150/ night

Kyoto Century Hotel

Kyoto Station· Boutique hotel

Close to the station for easy travel and offers modern amenities with traditional touches.

Check dates on Agoda Map
03$350/ night

Hotel Granvia Kyoto

Kyoto Station· Luxury hotel

Conveniently located above the train station with stunning views and top-notch service.

Check dates on Agoda Map

The plan

Day by day.

Day 01 · Thu, Nov 19

Arrival and First Impressions

Ease into the vibrant culture of Tokyo with a perfect blend of sights and flavors.

Full day~2 km on foot $140 Day route
1
2
3
  1. 1
    Sensō-ji
    MorningFree
    9:00 AM - 12:00 PM 3 hours Free to enter

    Senso-ji Temple

    Sight Asakusa

    As Tokyo's oldest temple, Senso-ji offers stunning architecture and a rich history. Explore the bustling Nakamise Street leading up to the temple, filled with traditional snacks and souvenirs.

    Local tip · Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

    Directions
  2. 7.8 km~30 min by metro or taxiDirections
  3. 2
    Tsukiji fish market
    AfternoonEst.$60
    1:00 PM - 4:00 PM 3 hours

    Tsukiji Outer Market

    Food & drink Tsukiji

    Dive into Tokyo's culinary scene at Tsukiji, where fresh seafood and street food abound. Sample everything from sushi to grilled seafood skewers as you wander the vibrant stalls.

    Local tip · Try the grilled seafood skewers from the stall closest to the entrance for a must-have treat.

    Directions
  4. 8.2 km~30 min by metro or taxiDirections
  5. 3
    Shibuya Crossing
    EveningEst.$80
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM 3 hours

    Shibuya Crossing

    Culture Shibuya

    Experience the iconic rush of Shibuya Crossing, where hundreds cross at once. Afterward, enjoy dinner at a nearby izakaya for a lively evening atmosphere.

    Local tip · Stand on the corner near Starbucks for the best view of the crossing.

    Directions Tickets & tours

Know before you go

Sorted before take-off.

Entry & visaCan you get in?

Check what your passport needs: visas, e-visas and any arrival forms.

Check your passport
Stay connectedData from the moment you land

A travel eSIM installs before you fly: maps, rides and WhatsApp work at the airport, without roaming bills.

Get an eSIM
Travel insuranceCovered if plans change

Medical care, cancelled flights and lost bags, for a few dollars a day.

SafetyWing

Good to know

The essentials.

Weather

April is mild with temperatures around 15-20°C (59-68°F).

Money

Yen (JPY), cards widely accepted

Language

Japanese, English widely spoken in tourist areas

Arigato gozaimasu (ありがとうございます): Thank you very much.

Plugs

Type A
Type B
100V

Type A/B, 100V

Tipping

Not expected
0%10%20%25%

Not customary; service included in prices

Getting around

Use the subway and buses; a prepaid Suica card is very convenient.

Before you go

Ready, set, roam.

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To do

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Pack

Make it yours.

Change the dates, budget, pace or who's coming, and GoRoam re-plans every day around you.

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Questions about this trip

Is 5 days enough for Tokyo and Kyoto?

Yes for a first taste: two and a half days in each. Add days for Nara, Hakone or Osaka.

Is the JR Pass worth it for 5 days?

Usually not after the 2023 price rise unless you're making several long trips. A Tokyo-Kyoto return on the shinkansen is often cheaper.

When is the best time to visit Japan?

Late March to April for cherry blossom, and October to November for autumn leaves.

Do I need cash in Japan?

Less than before, but carry some yen for small restaurants, temples and shrines.