Japan in 10 Days – From Tokyo Disneyland to Universal Studios Japan

Overview

Experience the ultimate 10-day family adventure in Japan, from the magical worlds of Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan to the timeless beauty of Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka perfectly crafted for fun, culture, and unforgettable memories together.

Highlights

• Create unforgettable family memories at Tokyo Disneyland or enjoy a fun day with adorable animals at Ueno Zoo.
• Experience thrilling rides at Universal Studios Japan, explore marine life at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, and ride the iconic Tempozan Ferris Wheel.
• Admire the breathtaking beauty of Mount Fuji from scenic viewpoints like the 5th Station and Lake Yamanaka.
• Explore Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, with views of the iconic Tokyo Skytree nearby.
• Discover Kyoto’s timeless charm while strolling through Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, and Gion District.
• Enjoy spectacular mountain and river scenery aboard the Sagano Scenic Railway in Arashiyama.
• Walk through thousands of iconic red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.
• Meet and feed the friendly sacred deer roaming freely in Nara Park.
• Taste Osaka’s famous street food while exploring the neon-lit districts of Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street and Dotonbori.
• Travel comfortably across Japan aboard the high-speed Shinkansen.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

• 1
  Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo – Welcome to Japan

  Welcome to Tokyo, the dynamic capital of Japan. Upon arrival at the airport, your driver (non-English speaking) will greet you at the exit and transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy some rest after your journey and prepare for an exciting guided exploration of Tokyo the next day.

  Tokyo is one of Asia’s largest economic and cultural hubs, renowned for its cutting-edge technology, world-class museums, and vibrant arts scene. The city is a global leader in industries such as electronics, automotive, and robotics, while also preserving deep-rooted traditions. Located on the Kanto Plain and within reach of iconic natural landmarks like Mount Fuji, Tokyo offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and scenic beauty. Despite its fast-paced lifestyle and high cost of living, the city provides excellent infrastructure, diverse shopping experiences, and an outstanding food scene from Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic street food.

  Airport & Transportation Information

  Tokyo is served by two major international airports. Narita International Airport, located approximately 63.5 km from the city center, is the primary gateway for international travelers. Haneda Airport (Tokyo International Airport), just 17 km from central Tokyo, handles mainly domestic flights along with selected international routes across Asia.

  Direct flights to Tokyo are available from major cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Taipei, Seoul, Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Manila, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and more (subject to airline schedules and seasonal changes).

  For getting around Tokyo, public transportation such as the subway and JR trains is highly recommended. It is efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. Taxis are available but relatively expensive, with fares starting around 660 JPY plus additional charges per kilometer, waiting time, and surcharges during peak hours or nighttime. A taxi ride from Tokyo Tower to Narita Airport can cost approximately 25,000–35,000 JPY.

  Meals: None
  Accommodation: Tokyo

• 2
  Day 2: Tokyo City Tour – Cultural & Iconic Highlights

  Spend a full day discovering the best of Tokyo, where traditional culture, family-friendly attractions, and modern entertainment come together.

  Begin your morning at Ueno Park, one of Tokyo’s largest and most famous parks, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season with more than 1,300 sakura trees. Families will love visiting Ueno Zoo, Japan’s oldest zoo, home to a wide variety of animals, offering a fun and relaxing experience for both children and adults.

  

  Continue to Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most iconic Buddhist temple located in the historic Asakusa district. Walk through the famous Kaminarimon Gate with its giant red lantern, explore Nakamise Street filled with traditional snacks and souvenirs, and admire the beautiful five-story pagoda. From the temple grounds, you can also enjoy fantastic views of Tokyo Skytree, creating a perfect contrast between old and modern Tokyo.

  

  In the afternoon, explore Akihabara, the center of anime, manga, gaming, and electronics culture in Japan. The colorful streets, themed shops, and cosplay atmosphere make it an exciting destination for visitors of all ages.

  

  End the day at Tsukiji Fish Market, where you can enjoy fresh sushi, seafood bowls, and local street food while experiencing Tokyo’s famous culinary scene.

  

  Meals: Breakfast
  Accommodation: Tokyo

• 3
  Day 3: Tokyo Disneyland & Tokyo DisneySea with Transfer Services

  Enjoy your free day in Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea.

  Note: Today we only include transfer service. If you need assistance with ticket booking, please consult with our travel advisor.

  Tokyo Disneyland seamlessly blends Western Disney magic with traditional Japanese elements, creating a harmonious and captivating experience. Tokyo Disneyland is renowned for its impeccable attention to detail, from the architecture to the character interactions. Many attractions are exclusive to Tokyo Disneyland, offering a fresh perspective on beloved Disney stories. The park’s exceptional customer service is legendary, making guests feel welcomed and cared for. Beyond attractions, Tokyo Disneyland offers captivating parades, enchanting shows, and unforgettable character meet-and-greets throughout the day.

  

  Tokyo Disneyland’s themed lands:
  1. World Bazaar: The main entrance area with shops and restaurants.
  2. Adventureland: Explore exotic lands and embark on thrilling adventures.
  3. Westernland: Experience the Wild West with cowboys, outlaws & exciting attractions.
  4. Fantasyland: Immerse in classic Disney fairy tales & meet beloved characters.
  5. Tomorrowland: Wonders of the future with futuristic attractions & technology.
  6. Critter Country: Enjoy the outdoors and encounter playful animals.

  

  Must-see attractions of Tokyo Disneyland:
  1. Cinderella Castle: The iconic centerpiece of the park, offering a magical atmosphere.
  2. Space Mountain: A thrilling roller coaster experience through space.
  3. Jungle Cruise: A humorous boat ride through a jungle filled with exotic animals.
  4. Haunted Mansion: A spooky and entertaining haunted house attraction.
  5. It’s a Small World: A cheerful boat ride featuring dolls from around the world.

  Alternatively, you can choose to explore Tokyo DisneySea. DisneySea is themed around the sea and water, offering a refreshing and immersive experience unlike any other Disney park. From high-speed roller coasters to gentle boat rides, DisneySea offers a diverse range of attractions to suit all tastes. You can also enjoy a wide variety of culinary delights, from classic Disney treats to unique Japanese-inspired dishes. You can explore Tokyo DisneySea’s 7 themed ports: Mediterranean Harbor, American Waterfront, Port Discovery, Mermaid Lagoon, Arabian Coast, Lost River Delta, and Mysterious Island.

  

  The Must-see attractions include Journey to the Center of the Earth, Indiana Jones Adventure, Toy Story Mania, Soarin’, Around the World, and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

  Meals: Breakfast
  Accommodation: Tokyo
• 4
  Day 4: Tokyo – Mt. Fuji – Tokyo (Mount Fuji Adventure & Lake Yamanaka Experience)

  Enjoy an unforgettable full-day journey from Tokyo to the breathtaking Mount Fuji, Japan’s tallest mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous for its perfectly symmetrical cone shape and snow-capped peak, Mount Fuji is one of Japan’s most iconic natural and cultural landmarks.

  

  Travel to the Mount Fuji 5th Station for spectacular close-up views of the mountain and surrounding Fuji Five Lakes area. On clear days, the panoramic scenery offers some of the best photo opportunities in Japan. During winter when the 5th Station is inaccessible, the itinerary will visit Arakurayama Sengen Park, famous for its postcard-perfect views of Mount Fuji and the Chureito Pagoda.

  Continue to Lake Yamanaka, the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes and one of the best places to admire Mount Fuji reflected on the water. Surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, the lake is a popular destination for boating and outdoor activities.

  

  For a fun family-friendly adventure, ride the unique KABA Bus, an exciting amphibious vehicle that travels both on land and across the lake. Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Fuji while cruising on the water, creating a memorable experience for both adults and children. In certain seasons, visitors can also feed the graceful swans around the lake.

  

  After the tour, return to Tokyo for overnight stay.

  Meals: Breakfast
  Accommodation: Tokyo

• 5
  Day 5: Tokyo to Kyoto by Shinkansen – Travel & Cultural Overview

  Today, travel from Tokyo to Kyoto aboard the Shinkansen. Your driver will transfer you to Tokyo Station, where you board the bullet train for a smooth ~2.5-hour journey, enjoying scenic views of Japan’s countryside.

  

  Upon arrival at Kyoto Station, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel for check-in and rest.

  Once Japan’s ancient capital, Kyoto is renowned for its timeless charm, featuring historic temples, shrines, gardens, and imperial landmarks. With 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and over 1,000 temples, Kyoto is a cultural treasure, also known for traditional experiences like tea ceremonies, kaiseki cuisine, and geisha culture.

  Free Time Suggestions:

  • Stroll along the Kamo River for a relaxing evening with scenic views and riverside dining.
  • Walk the Philosopher’s Path, a peaceful canal-side trail famous for cherry blossoms and tranquil atmosphere year-round.

  Dining: Breakfast

  Accommodation: Kyoto
• 6
  Day 6: Kyoto - Arashiyama Scenic Beauty & Traditional Kyoto Experience

  Today, discover the natural beauty and timeless charm of Kyoto with a journey through the scenic Arashiyama district and Kyoto’s historic streets.

  Begin with a ride on the famous Sagano Scenic Railway, also known as the “Romantic Train,” offering spectacular views of the Hozugawa River gorge, forested mountains, cherry blossoms, autumn foliage, or snowy landscapes depending on the season.

  

  Continue to the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks create one of Kyoto’s most photographed and peaceful landscapes. Nearby, visit Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its beautiful Zen garden and traditional Japanese architecture.

  

  Take a relaxing stroll across Togetsukyo Bridge, one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks, before visiting Iwatayama Monkey Park, where friendly wild macaques and panoramic views of Kyoto await after a short hike.

  

  In the afternoon, return to downtown Kyoto and explore the historic Gion District, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and geisha culture. Enjoy a special kimono experience as you immerse yourself in traditional Japanese elegance.

  

  End the day walking through the charming old streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, lined with local shops, tea houses, and beautifully preserved architecture that capture the spirit of old Kyoto.

  Meals: Breakfast
  Accommodation: Kyoto

• 7
  Day 7: Kyoto – Nara – Osaka

  Start your morning at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Walk through the famous “Senbon Torii” – thousands of vermilion gates forming a stunning tunnel through the forested hillside. This historic shrine, dedicated to the Shinto god Inari, is also known for its symbolic fox statues.

  Continue to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital and a city rich in cultural heritage. Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue and one of the world’s largest wooden structures.

  

  Next, explore Nara Park, where hundreds of friendly deer roam freely. Visitors can feed them special crackers and enjoy a unique cultural experience.

  

  After the tour, drive to Osaka and experience the city’s famous street food and nightlife scene. Explore Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street, Osaka’s busiest shopping district, before heading to the neon-lit entertainment area of Dotonbori. Capture photos at the iconic Glico Running Man Sign and sample Osaka’s local specialties, including takoyaki, kushikatsu, and okonomiyaki, while soaking up the city’s lively atmosphere.

  

  Optional Experiences:

  • Visit Kasuga Taisha, famous for its thousands of lanterns.
  • Hike Mount Wakakusa for panoramic views of the city.

  End the day in Osaka for overnight stay.

  Dining: Breakfast
  Accommodation: Osaka

• 8
  Day 7: Osaka - Aquarium Adventure & Retro Osaka Experience

  Discover the fun and vibrant side of Osaka with a day of family-friendly attractions, waterfront views, and nostalgic city charm.

  Begin at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the world’s largest aquariums, featuring impressive marine exhibits inspired by the Pacific Ocean. See fascinating sea creatures including whale sharks, manta rays, sharks, and colorful tropical fish, while interactive exhibits make the experience especially enjoyable for families and children.

  

  Next, ride the iconic Tempozan Ferris Wheel, standing 112.5 meters tall and offering panoramic views of Osaka Bay, the city skyline, and even Kobe on clear days.

  

  Later, explore the retro streets of Shinsekai, a lively neighborhood famous for its nostalgic atmosphere, local street food, colorful signboards, and old-school Osaka charm. Visitors can also choose to visit Tsutenkaku Tower, the district’s iconic landmark with excellent city views.

  

  Meals: Breakfast
  Accommodation: Osaka

• 9
  Day 9: Osaka - Free Day in Universal Studios Japan (USJ) with Transfer Service

  You can enjoy a free day at Universal Studios Japan (USJ) on your own, one of the premier theme parks in Asia.

  Note: Today we only include transfer service. If you need assistance with ticket booking, please consult with our travel advisor.

  

  Universal Studios Japan offers a diverse range of themed areas such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, and Jurassic Park, among others. Each zone provides unique rides, interactive experiences, and entertainment that can captivate visitors of all ages. Whether you’re battling alongside Harry Potter, racing with Mario, or escaping a ferocious dinosaur, USJ provides an immersive experience that combines cutting-edge technology with your favorite fictional worlds.

  

  Get ready to create unforgettable memories at Universal Studios Japan, where excitement and magic await you at every turn!

  Stay overnight in Osaka.

  Meals: Breakfast
  Accommodation: Osaka
• 10
  Day 10: Departure Day

  It’s time to conclude your unforgettable Japan journey. Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before your private transfer to Kansai International Airport for your departure flight. Your driver will ensure a smooth and comfortable transfer.

  Have a safe journey home and we hope to welcome you back to Japan soon!

  Meals: Breakfast

What's Included