Japan is on everyone's bucket list, and for good reason. A 5-day Japan trip gives you enough time to experience Tokyo's electric energy, climb Mount Fuji, and understand why this country is so special. This is our tested itinerary that balances iconic attractions with hidden gems.
Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo, Shibuya & Harajuku
After landing at Narita or Haneda, grab the Narita Express (N'EX) to your hotel in Shinjuku or Shibuya (¥3,070/$21). Drop your bags and head straight into the action.
Attractions:
- Shibuya Crossing — The world's busiest intersection. Go during evening for the best energy (free)
- Hachiko Statue — The loyal dog statue outside Shibuya Station (free)
- Takeshita Street, Harajuku — Fashion boutiques and street food (free to walk, food ¥1,000-2,000)
- Omotesando — Tokyo's upscale shopping street (free to walk)
Dinner: Ramen at a local shop (¥900-1,200). Our tip: Look for a shop with the most worn-out sign — it's usually the best.
Daily Cost: ¥6,000-8,000 ($40-55)
Day 2: Tokyo Temples & Senso-ji
Slow down and experience traditional Tokyo. Visit Senso-ji Temple (Tokyo's oldest), walk through Asakusa's alleyways, and enjoy the contrast between old and new Tokyo.
Attractions:
- Senso-ji Temple — Ancient temple with red lantern (free entry, ¥100 fortune slip)
- Nakamise Shopping Street — Souvenirs and street snacks (¥2,000-3,000)
- Meiji Shrine — Peaceful shrine in a forest, away from crowds (free)
- Yoyogi Park — Perfect for a peaceful walk (free)
- teamLab Borderless Digital Art Museum — Incredible immersive art (¥3,200/$22) — book in advance
Insider Tip: Visit Meiji Shrine early morning (7am) to avoid crowds. The 1-hour walk through the forest is magical.
Daily Cost: ¥8,000-11,000 ($55-75)
Day 3: Mt. Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo
This is non-negotiable. Mt. Fuji is Japan's most iconic landmark. You can reach it from Tokyo in about 2 hours.
Options:
- Summit hike (8-12 hours) — Most rewarding but exhausting. You'll need to start early, hike for hours, sleep at a mountain hut, and descend the next day
- 5th Station + short hike (3-4 hours) — Take the bus to 5th station (halfway), hike for 1-2 hours to see the view without summiting. Much easier
- Lake Kawaguchi loop — If hiking isn't your thing, circle the lake and catch views from different angles
Our Recommendation: Do the 5th Station hike. It's stunning and doable in a day trip from Tokyo.
How to Get There:
- From Shinjuku Station, take a direct bus to Mt. Fuji 5th Station (2.5 hours, ¥2,600/$18)
- Hike for 1-2 hours to views
- Return bus to Tokyo (¥2,600)
Daily Cost: ¥8,000-10,000 ($55-70)
Pro Tip: Bring layers. Mt. Fuji is cold even in summer. Start your hike by 1pm at the latest so you're back before dark.
Day 4: Tokyo's Hidden Neighborhoods
Skip the obvious tourist spots today. Explore neighborhoods where locals actually hang out.
Attractions:
- Shimokitazawa — Hipster neighborhood with vintage shops, live music venues, and cafes (free to explore, food ¥1,500-2,500)
- Tsukiji Outer Market — Fresh seafood, street food, and the energy of a working market (¥2,000-3,000)
- Odaiba — Waterfront area with modern architecture, shopping malls, and beach (free to walk, attractions ¥1,000-3,000)
- Karaoke in Shibuya — Genuinely fun. Book a room for 1-2 hours (¥2,000-3,000)
Dinner: Depachika (department store food halls) for variety. Amazing quality at ¥1,500-2,000.
Daily Cost: ¥9,000-12,000 ($60-80)
Day 5: Last-Minute Shopping & Departure
Depending on your flight time, spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or gifts.
Best Places to Buy Souvenirs:
- Okachimachi (near Ueno Station) — Cheap electronics and gadgets
- Akihabara — Tech, anime, manga, video games
- Don Quijote — Everything. Multiple locations, crazy deals
- Depachika Food Halls — High-quality snacks for gift-giving
Head to the airport with enough time (3 hours for international flights). Take the N'EX back to Haneda/Narita (¥3,070).
Daily Cost: ¥3,000-8,000 ($20-55)
5-Day Budget Breakdown
| Category | Budget | Splurge |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (4 nights) | ¥12,000 ($80) | ¥24,000 ($160) |
| Food & Drinks | ¥12,000 ($80) | ¥18,000 ($120) |
| Transportation (incl. Mt. Fuji) | ¥10,000 ($67) | ¥15,000 ($100) |
| Activities & Museums | ¥8,000 ($55) | ¥15,000 ($100) |
| Airport Transfer | ¥6,000 ($40) | ¥6,000 ($40) |
| Total | ¥48,000 ($320) | ¥78,000 ($520) |
Insider Tips for Japan
- Get a Suica card — Rechargeable transit card that works on trains, buses, and at vending machines (¥2,000 with ¥1,500 value)
- Stay in Shinjuku or Shibuya — Most central, excellent train connections to everywhere
- Eat at convenience stores — Seriously. 7-Eleven and FamilyMart have incredible quality food for ¥500-800
- Learn basic phrases — English is less common than you'd expect. "Arigatou" (thank you) and "Sumimasen" (excuse me) go a long way
- Take your shoes off — When entering homes, some restaurants, temples. Observe what others do
- Cash is king — Many places don't take cards. Withdraw from a 7-Eleven ATM
- Be quiet on trains — No phone calls, keep volume low, don't eat (except on shinkansen)
What to Pack
- Comfortable walking shoes (you'll walk 15,000+ steps daily)
- Lightweight jacket (temperatures vary throughout the day)
- Slip-on shoes (easier for temple visits and accommodations with shoe removal)
- Power bank (your phone will get heavy use for navigation)
- Small towel or handkerchief (some public restrooms don't have dryers)
Ready to Explore More Itineraries?
This 5-day Japan itinerary is just the beginning. If you're planning a longer trip, we have detailed guides for 3-day and 10-day options that dive deeper into Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.
Customize Your Japan Trip
Not sure if 5 days is right for you? Explore our interactive itinerary builder to see Japan options for 3, 5, or 10 days — customized by what you want to see.
Browse All ItinerariesCommon Japan Questions
Do I need a visa?
Most Western tourists get a 90-day tourist visa automatically on arrival. Check your country's specific requirements.
Best time to visit?
Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms. Fall (September-November) for weather and colors. Avoid July-August (hot and humid) and New Year holidays.
Is Japan expensive?
It can be, but doesn't have to be. Budget travel is totally possible. Stay in hostels/budget hotels, eat at convenience stores and ramen shops, use public transit. You can do this for $30-50/day easily.
How much does a flight cost?
Roundtrip from US typically $600-1,200 depending on season and airline. Book 2-3 months in advance for best prices.