Is 8 days enough in Japan? The length of most people's tours to Japan in 8 days is enough for most travelers to get to thoroughly explore many wonders and locales of this country. Whether you're bringing your partner or family, or even if you're going at it alone, UME will make the 8 days in Japan itinerary that perfectly suits your needs. Here, we've handpicked four of our best 8-day tour itineraries to guide you in making the most out of your 8 day trip to Japan to have a wonderful time in this incredible country. Feel free to contact us if you hope your private itinerary turn to be creative, diverse, balanced, and well thought out.
Table of Contents
1. 4 Best 8-Day Japan Itinerary Suggestions
-Itinerary for Seniors
-Itinerary for Honeymoon
-Itinerary for Foodie
-Itinerary for Youngsters
2. 8 Days in Japan Budget
3. Things to Do for First-Time Japan 8-Day Tour
4. Best Time to Enjoy an 8-Day Japan Tour
1. UME's Top Four Japan Travel Itinerary 8 Days Options
These are the most popular Japan 8 day itinerary ideas that you can use to check out some of the best sights & locales you can experience in Japan. Contact our travel experts to customize all the arrangements and accommodations specific to your needs.
8 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Hakone - Kamakura - Yokohama - Tokyo
8 days | From $ 4689
8 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Osaka - Kyoto
8 days | From $ 5486
8 Days Tokyo - Mt. Fuji - Kyoto - Osaka
8 days | From $ 4485
8 Days Tokyo - Mt.fuji - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka Tour
8 days | From $ 4466
Option 1: 8-Day Japan's Kanto In-depth Tour
-Cater for: Seniors, Scenery Enthusiasts
-Quick Access>>>8 Days Tokyo - Mt. Fuji - Hakone - Kamakura - Yokohama - Tokyo
On this 8 day trip to Japan, you'll get an in-depth experience on the Kanto region of Japan. Starting in the Mt. Fuji area, where you'll explore many of the area's great landmarks such as Lake Kawaguchiko and Oshino Hakkai before heading to Tokyo, where you'll explore highlights such as Tokyo Tower and Senso-ji Temple.
▲Tour Highlights (What to Visit in Japan in 8 Days)
●Travel seamlessly & in comfort with personal transport throughout your trip.
●Take a cable car up to Tenjosan Park for a panoramic view of Lake Kawaguchi.
●At Fuji View Hotel, you'll get to stay in a lakeside room offering breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, visible right from your window.
●Drive up to Mount Fuji's 5th Station, the highest point accessible by vehicle.
●Visit the volcanic valley of Owakudani, where you can eat some of its famous black eggs cooked in its hot springs.
●Explore the ancient city of Kamakura, immersing yourself in its charm by visiting historic buildings, temples, and the Great Buddha of Kamakura.
●Create your own personalized cup noodles at the Cup Noodles Museum.
●Visit Shibuya Crossing, the world's busiest intersection where up to 3,000 people pass through every minute. It's an iconic, must-see spot for experiencing the city's vibrant energy.
●Take a futuristic water bus to explore the Sumida River, enjoying a unique perspective of Tokyo's skyline.
●Visit Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest temple, where you can gain blessings by drawing fortune slips, and purchase protective charms.
▲Overviews of the Japan itinerary 8 Days in Kanto
●Days 1-3: Mt. Fuji & Hakone (Lake Kawaguchi, Excursion boat Appare, Oshino Hakkai, Tenjozan Park, Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani)
●Day 4: Kamakura (Odawara Castle, Kotokuin Great Buddha of Kamakura, Shichirigahama Beach, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine)
●Day 5: Yokohama & Shibuya (Cup Noodles Museum, Yokohama-Akarenga, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
●Days 6-8: Tokyo (Sushi Making Experience, Imperial Palace Outer Gardens, Zojo-ji Temple, Tokyo Tower, Senso-ji Temple, Sky Tree, Sumida River Cruise, Odaiba Marine Park & Tokyo's Rainbow Bridge)
▲First-Rate Accommodations in This 8 Days Japan Tour Package
●Day 1-3: Hotel East 21 Tokyo (Okura Hotels & Resorts)
√ Excellent 4-star Hotel with English language services
√ Close to Toyocho Station & JR Tokyo Train Station
√ Tokyo Sky Tree Tower & Tokyo Disney Resort are each 20-30 minutes away.
●Day 4: Fuji View Hotel
√ Gorgeous View of Mt. Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi
√ On-Site Indoor & Outdoor Hot Springs
√ Free Shuttle to Kawaguchiko Train Station
●Day 5-7: Tokyu Stay Osaka Hommachi
√ 4-Star establishment
√ Includes buffet restaurant
√ 1.1 miles from the city center & 8 minutes walk from Namba shrine
Option 2: 8-Day Diverse Honeymoon in Japan
-Cater For: Honeymooning Couples
-Quick Access>>> 8 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Osaka - Kyoto
On this 8 day Japan tour, we'll guarantee a vibrant and unforgettable romantic experience for couples seeking it. This curated adventure promises an enchanting exploration of Japan's varied landscapes, from the lively streets of Tokyo to the tranquility of Kyoto's ancient temples. Step into a world where the diverse landscapes of Japan converge, providing a captivating blend of traditional and modern experiences for your honeymoon. Allow the multifaceted richness of Japan to set the ideal stage for your honeymoon—an immersive experience overflowing with love, discovery, and the promise of new beginnings.
▲Tour Highlights (8 Days in Japan Where to Do)
●Known as the shrine most visited by couples in Tokyo, visit Tokyo Daijingu Shrine with your partner to make wishes to the deities. UME will provide a special pair of protective charms as a blessing.
●Head to the top of Tokyo's Shibuya Sky Observation Deck and capture unforgettable panoramic views of the skyline.
●Enjoy a specially arranged romantic dinner at a honeymoon restaurant while admiring the stunning night view of Tokyo.
●Go on a Mt. Fuji Day Trip at Fujisan Sengen Shrine, taking in the most breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and enjoying cherry blossoms at the foot and peak of the mountain.
●Stay at an Onsen Hotel near Mount Fuji, relax in the onsen, and savor traditional Japanese cuisine.
●Travel to Kyoto by Shinkansen bullet train.
●Enjoy a one-hour honeymoon photo session in traditional Japanese attire, capturing unique and memorable moments.
●Hike through the thousands of red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto's most iconic shrine.
●Visit the birthplace of matcha in Uji, where you can enjoy delicious matcha desserts and ice cream.
●Explore the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and experience touching various marine creatures.
●Visit the landmark Osaka Castle and its surrounding park.
▲Overviews of This Romantic Japan in 8 Days Itinerary
●Days 1-2: Tokyo (Tokyo Daijingu, Shibuya Sky Observation Deck, Akihabara, Senso-ji temple, Tenku Lounge Top of Tree)
●Day 3: Fujiyama (Lake Kawaguchi, Kawaguchiko Tenjozan Park, Oshino Hakkai, Arakurayama Sengen Park, Sengen-jinja Shrine)
●Days 4-6: Kyoto (Kimono Fitting, Photography Option 1 hours, Nishiki Market, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Uji, Nara Park, Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, Tōdai-ji Temple, Gion Hanasaki Kaiseki Cuisine Mai, Arashiyama, Tenryuji Temple, Sagano Bamboo Forest, Togetsukyo Bridge, Okochi-Sanso, Gion Kyo-ryori Hanasaki)
●Days 7-8: Osaka (Osaka Castle Park, Osaka Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Tempozan Ferris Wheel)
▲Where to Stay During 8 Days in Japan to Enjoy Your Honeymoon
●Day 1 - Hotel East 21 Tokyo (Okura Hotels & Resorts)
√ Excellent 4-Star Hotel with English language services.
√ Close to Toyocho Station & JR Tokyo Train Station
√ Tokyo Sky Tree Tower & Tokyo Disney Resort are each 20-30 minutes away.
●Days 2, 5, 7 - Hotel Androoms Osaka Hommachi
√ Excellent 4-Star Hotel
√ Namba City Mall & Osaka Castle are 1.6 miles within its vicinity.
√ Osaka Itami Airport is 7.5 Miles away
●Day 3 - Fuji View Hotel
√ Gorgeous View of Mt. Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi
√ On-Site Indoor & Outdoor Hot Springs
√ Free Shuttle to Kawaguchiko Train Station
●Day 4 - THE JUNEI HOTEL Kyoto Imperial Palace West
√ Small, Two-Story Luxury Hotel with gorgeous furnishings
√ Includes In-Room Spa & Shidashi style breakfasts delivered straight to your room.
√ Located in Center of Kyoto
√ 2 miles within the vicinity of Nijo Castle, International Manga Museum, and Kyoto Imperial Palace
●Day 6 - Karaksa Hotel Grande Shin-Osaka Tower
√ 4-star Accommodations & Restaurant
√ Includes Sauna & Free Wi-Fi
√ Nearest to Itami Airport, Shin Osaka Station
Option 3: 8-Day Exciting Foodie Adventure in Japan
-Cater For: Foodie
-Quick Access >>> 8 Days Tokyo - Mt. Fuji - Kyoto - Osaka
On this thrilling 8-Day adventure in Japan, you'll go on a journey through the rich and diverse flavors this country has to offer. You'll relish sushi, sashimi, and tempura at Tokyo's lively Tsukiji Fish Market. Immerse yourself in the unique regional tastes, from the savory ramen in Hakata to flavorful okonomiyaki in Osaka and irresistible takoyaki in Kyoto. You will be satisfied with this well-organized 8 day itinerary Japan!
▲Tour Highlights (Must-do Things for 8 Days in Japan)
●Participate in a hands-on sushi-making class, where you'll craft delicious sushi and gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies of local cuisine, culminating in the enjoyment of your culinary creations.
●Explore the picturesque Odaiba Seaside Park, where you can find iconic landmarks such as the Rainbow Bridge and a charming replica of the Statue of Liberty.
●Standing 19.7 meters tall, watch as this iconic Gundam animatronic statue transforms between Unicorn and Destroyer modes with stunning light and movement displays!
●Dive into a world of flavors at Tokyo's Ramen Street. Sample a variety of authentic, mouth-watering ramen bowls in this culinary hotspot.
●Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Mount Fuji and visit Saiko Gassho Village, where you can see traditional Japanese thatched houses.
●Climb the mountain to visit the beautiful Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine.
●Visit the volcanic valley of Owakudani, where you can eat some of its famous black eggs cooked in its hot springs.
●Experience the speed and comfort of Japan's famous Shinkansen (Bullet Train) when traveling to Osaka.
●Explore Osaka's history through a visit to Osaka Castle Park.
●Get fitted with a kimono & experience a traditional tea ceremony (sado) at a Tea House surrounded by a serene garden, experiencing the ceremonial preparation and enjoyment of matcha green tea.
●Dine on high-end Kaiseki cuisine at Hanasaki Kaiseki Cuisine Mai, a distinguished high-end Japanese restaurant in Kyoto. You'll get to try out a meticulously crafted multi-course Japanese meal showcasing a series of small, beautifully presented dishes.
●Try out a variety of exquisite crab dishes at Kani Doraku in Osaka, from fresh sashimi and grilled delicacies to hot pots and deep-fried dishes.
▲Overviews of the 8 Days Itinerary for Japan to Enjoy the Culinary Delights
●Days 1-3: Tokyo (Tsukiji Fish Market, Senso-ji Temple, Sushi Making Experience, Tokyo Skytree, Go-Karting in Asakusa, Pokémon Center, Nintendo Tokyo, Ninja Café)
●Day 4: Fujiyama (Oishi Park, West Lake Village, Narusawa Hyoketsu Ice Cave, Arakurayama Sengen Shrine)
●Days 5-6: Kyoto (Tenryu-ji Temple, Sagano Bamboo Forest, Togetsukyo Bridge, Okochi-Sanso, Kimono Experience, Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, Hanamikoji Dori, Nijo Castle)
●Days 7-8: Osaka (Kuromon Ichiba, Osaka Castle, HEP Five, Dotonbori)
▲Comfortable Hotels Covered in This 8 Days 7 Nights Japan Itinerary
●Days 1-3: Hotel East 21 Tokyo (Okura Hotels & Resorts)
√ Excellent 4-Star Hotel with English language services
√ Close to Toyocho Station & JR Tokyo Train Station
√ Tokyo Sky Tree Tower & Tokyo Disney Resort are each 20-30 minutes away.
●Day 4: Fuji View Hotel
√ Gorgeous View of Mt. Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi
√ On-Site Indoor & Outdoor Hot Springs
√ Free Shuttle to Kawaguchiko Train Station
●Days 5-7: Tokyu Stay Osaka Hommachi
√ 4-Star establishment
√ Includes buffet restaurant
√ Miles from City Center & 8 Minute Walk from Namba shrine
Option 4: 8-day Japan Vibrant Animation Tour
-Cater For: Youngsters, Animation Enthusiasts
-Quick Access>>> 8 Days Tokyo - Mt. Fuji - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka Tour
On this 8-day odyssey in Japan, you'll immerse yourself in the enchanting world of anime like at the Ghibli Museum, explore Tokyo stores for delightful treasures, and marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of iconic landmarks like Mt. Fuji. This best 8 day Japan itinerary seamlessly blends the magic of anime culture with the breathtaking landscapes of Japan, promising an unforgettable adventure for anime enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
▲Tour Highlights (8 Days in Japan What to Do)
●Get to experience firsthand Tokyo and Osaka's public transportation for a way to travel more sustainably while experiencing local life in 3 days among the whole 8 days Japan itinerary.
●Thrill-seekers can go racing in go-karts through Asakusa's vibrant city streets.
●Check out Shibuya's iconic anime IP stores, where you can purchase character merchandise and collectibles.
●Head to the top of Tokyo's Shibuya Sky Observation Deck and capture unforgettable panoramic views of the skyline.
●Go on a Mt. Fuji Area Tour where you'll explore the scenic Lake Kawaguchi region and ascend to a viewing platform for breathtaking vistas of the area.
●Don a kimono and stroll through Kyoto's historic streets, immersing yourself in the city's timeless charm.
●Visit the renowned matcha-producing region of Uji, where you can savor delectable and locally made matcha sweets and ice cream.
●Interact with the friendly deer in the picturesque Nara Park.
●Go on an entertaining ninja training experience at Ninja-do, where you'll learn exciting tricks and unique moves like the shuriken and blowgun.
●Delight in Japan's local street cuisine, exploring all kinds of styles on dishes such as sushi to Takoyaki.
▲Overviews of Japan 8 Days Itinerary to Enjoy Animation
●Day 1-3: Tokyo (Fish Market, Akihabara, Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Go-Karting, Pokémon Center Store, Nintendo Store, Ninja Café)
●Day 4: Fujiyama (Oishi Park, West Lake Village, Narusawa Hyoketsu Ice Cave, Arakurayama Segen Park & Shrine)
●Day 5: Kyoto (Kiyomizu-dera, Kimono Fitting Experience)
●Day 6: Nara (Fushimi Inari, Uji, Nara Deer Park, Tōdai-ji Temple)
●Days 7-8: Osaka (Osaka Castle, Ninja-do, Donki Ferris Wheel, Dotonbori)
▲Accommodations of This 8 Day Tour of Japan for Animation Lovers
●Days 1-2: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku - Tokyo
√ Located in downtown Shinjuku
√ Close to the subway station
√ Convenient for eating and shopping
●Day 3: Fuji View Hotel - Fujiyama
√ Gorgeous View of Mt. Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi
√ Mount Fuji observation deck on the top of the hotel
●Days 5-8: Hot Spring from Deep Water Osaka Hinode Hotel Nipponbashi - Osaka
√ Located in Emisu Town
√ Located in Emisu Town
√ Convenient for shopping
√ Free ramen in the evening
√ Free hot spring in the annex
2. Cost of 8 Day Trip to Japan
UME recommends that you research & plan what you'll do in Japan as thoroughly as you can, especially if you're heading to highly popular attractions such as Tokyo Disneyland. We recommend that you have some cash on hand to exchange for yen to use to purchase food at local street food & snack bars.
*All prices are listed in USD.
Family Tours (3-5 people) cost approximately $350-500 per day per person.
A Private Couples/Honeymoon tour (2 people) costs approx. $450 per day per person.
The 8 days Japan trip cost ranges from $2,800 - $4,000 per person.
Accommodations
The cost of accommodations can vary greatly depending on the type of lodging:
Hotels: A single room in a 4- or 5-star hotel in the city center can cost between $150 and $350 per night.
Ryokans: A Ryokan is a type of inn that is done with more traditional style lodgings and can cost around $100 to $220 per person per night, and includes two meals.
Hostels and dormitories:
Hostels (ホステル) are lodgings with the bare essentials for the budget traveler. They usually feature shared bedrooms and facilities in return for low rates, and are often good places to interact with fellow travelers since time would inevitably be spent together in common areas. Many independent hostel operators can be booked online through sites such as Hostelworld or the International. These can cost around $20 to $35 per person per night.
Capsule Hotels
Perhaps the cheapest (and least spacious) accommodations you can find, these trendy, one-room capsules can cost at a meager $30 per night. Not recommended for families with young children.
Self-Catering Apartments
A popular choice for travelers who wish to eat a home-like experience during the Japan itinerary 8 days, these rental properties provide guests with the kitchen facilities they need to prepare their own meals. These usually cost a minimum of $45 a night.
Food
A budget traveler can expect to spend around $50 per day on food when planning the itinerary for Japan 8 days. You can find cheaper options by cooking your own food at hostel accommodations or buying ready-made meals from local stores. Japan is known for a wide variety of healthier foods widely available at local konbini convenience stores such as onigiri, sushi, & bento boxes.
Transportation
UME no longer recommends the Japan Rail Pass for budget travelers due to its increased expense over regular train tickets and other rail prices. Sometimes, flying domestically can be more economical too!
3. What to Do During Your First Time in Japan
Things to Experience in Japan in 8 Days for First-Timer:
Savor local street food in Osaka's Dotonbori district.
Spend a day at Tokyo Disney Resort, which has two parks: Disneyland & DisneySea, a great choice for 8 days Japan itinerary with kids.
Rent out a karaoke bar! A room for two can cost around $15 an hour.
▲Check out more things to do in Japan in the following to make every day of your Japan 8 day itinerary spectacular, interesting, and a lifetime experience:
Make sure you get weather-appropriate clothing. Get comfortable and well-cushioned shoes (we don't recommend flat-soled shoes like Converse). Even if you are a seasoned runner/hiker, you'll spend a lot of time walking on a hard paved surface. I have seen a desperate lady in Daiso on a rainy day in Kyoto, looking to buy new socks and shoes because her Converse shoes weren't doing so well.
Don't be afraid to ask for advice and communicate with locals on your Japan 8 day tour! We also recommend the use of Google Lens / Google translate app can reliably translate menus, signs, or anything else written, while popular tourist areas often offer explanations in English too. Showing photos of a specific product or location is also a highly effective method to find a specific product or location. Most people in Japan are helpful as long as you ask politely.
Some basic & commonly used words & phrases include:
Excuse me - Sumimasen
Sorry - Gomenasai
Please - Kudasai
Thank you very much- Arigatou Gozaimasu
Water - Mizu (or Omizu if you order at catered places such as restaurants)
Rice - Gohan
Tasty – Oishi
4. Touring Japan in 8 Days during Certain Seasons
The most recommended time for an 8 day Japan tour is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons, when the temperatures are milder, clear skies, and little rainfall, while temperatures usually range between 40° and 70° Fahrenheit. The May after Golden Week is the best time to avoid crowds.
Here are some other things to consider when visiting Japan during any of the seasons:
Winter
During the winter months, particularly January, accommodation rates hit their lowest point of the whole year. However, ski & snow resorts such as Niseko Village get more expensive as well. Japan's urban areas are particularly beautiful in December, during the holiday season, when decorations are all set up and snow begins to accumulate in the northernmost parts of the country.
Spring
Spring is a magical time in Japan marked by the blooming of cherry blossoms (Sakura) and mild, pleasant weather. To make the most of your trip, book accommodations, and popular activities in advance, as spring is one of Japan's busiest tourist seasons. Dress in layers, as temperatures can shift between warm afternoons and cooler evenings.
Plan visits to iconic Hanami (flower viewing) spots such as Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen (Tokyo), or Maruyama Park and the Philosopher's Path (Kyoto). Be sure to check local cherry blossom forecasts as bloom timing varies by region. Spring is also the perfect time to explore Japan's cultural festivals such as the Takayama Spring Festival or the vibrant Hirosaki Castle Sakura Festival.
Public transportation, especially bullet trains, is efficient but can get crowded during cherry blossom season, so consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass for convenience, and be sure to bring a light rain jacket in case of spring showers.
Summer
Lasting from June to August, summer in Japan is filled with lively festivals and vibrant natural beauty, but also comes with hot and humid weather. Average daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), with high humidity, especially in urban areas like Tokyo and Osaka. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to stay comfortable.
Japan's summer is famous for traditional festivals such as Kyoto's Gion Matsuri and Tokyo's Sumida River Fireworks Festival, offering a chance to experience colorful yukata (summer kimono), street food, and festive parades.
For an escape from the heat, consider visiting the mountainous regions of Nagano or Hokkaido, where temperatures are milder, or head to the beaches in Okinawa. Stay hydrated and carry a handheld fan or cooling wipes to beat the heat, and try out seasonal treats like kakigori (shaved ice). The rainy season, or tsuyu, occurs from mid-June to mid-July, so a compact umbrella is a must.
Fall/Momijigari
Momijigari, which translates to "hunting red leaves", is the yearly tradition of viewing the turning of leaves into their breathtaking autumn colors. Places such as Osaka Castle, Bishamon-do Temple, and Momijidani Garden are unmissably beautiful during this time of year.
What We'd Like to Say
Many people go to Japan not just for sightseeing, but for its comprehensive experience in culture, shopping, food, and services, etc., which them feel that it is worth the money. Join us to plan your private Japan 8 day tour now, we will customize all the arrangements and accommodations specific to your needs.