Ten days is the sweet spot for a first trip to Japan: enough time to feel Tokyo, slow down in Kyoto, and eat your way through Osaka without rushing. This route follows the classic golden triangle and connects the three cities on the Tokaido Shinkansen, so most travel days are a little over two hours between stops.
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Frequently asked questions
Is 10 days enough for Japan?
Yes. Ten days comfortably covers the Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka golden route with time for a day trip such as Nara or Hakone, which is why it is the most common first-trip length.
Should I buy a Japan Rail Pass?
For a Tokyo to Osaka loop the 7-day pass roughly breaks even against individual tickets and saves you booking each leg. Add a longer hop like Hiroshima and it clearly pays off. Compare both on the trains below.
How long is the bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto?
About 2 hours 20 minutes on a Nozomi. Kyoto to Osaka is 15 to 30 minutes depending on the train.
When is the best time to visit?
Cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and fall foliage (late October to November) are the most popular. Both are busy, so book hotels early.
Plan your own version
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Hotel options and prices come from Agoda and update at booking time; sample data shown if live pricing is unavailable. Transport fares are estimates, confirmed on 12Go.
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