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Guide · Japan

Japan in 11 days: Shinkansen routes from Tokyo to Miyajima

This 11-day itinerary links dense metropolis in Tokyo with historic temples in Kyoto, street food quarters in Osaka, and coastal heritage in Hiroshima. High-speed rail connects all four stops, allowing swift transitions between high-rise view decks and quiet shrine grounds without regional flights.

Flaiaway editorial team · Data updated October 24, 2026

📄 Download the guide (PDF) · 1.6 MB

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Some links in this guide are partner links: if you book through them we earn a commission, at no cost to you.

Japan
Photo: Jakub Hałun, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Itinerary

DAY1
Tokyo

Historic Shrines and High-Rise Views in Eastern Tokyo

Discover Tokyo's oldest spiritual roots before ascending high above the city skyline. This route blends traditional streets with modern vantage points.

  1. Senso-ji Temple

    Stroll through the Kaminarimon gate and explore Nakamise street stalls leading up to the main hall. Arrive early in the morning to experience the temple grounds before large crowds arrive.

  2. Tokyo Skytree

    Take in 360-degree views across the metropolis from the observation decks. It is better to book ahead to secure your entry slot and avoid waiting in long lines.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

  3. Ueno Park

    Walk around Shinobazu Pond and beneath the shade of sprawling trees. Keep an eye out for seasonal blossoms and quiet walking paths that branch off the main avenues.

  4. Ameyoko Shopping Street

    Browse the dense open-air stalls under the elevated train tracks selling dried seafood, clothes, and snacks. Watch for train cars passing overhead while you wander the narrow lanes.

DAY2
Tokyo

Forest Shrines, Youth Culture, and Sky Decks in Shibuya

Experience the dramatic shift from quiet wooded shrines to vibrant neon-lit streetscapes. Western Tokyo showcases the city's youthful energy and modern scale.

  1. Meiji Shrine

    Walk through tall wooden torii gates into the shaded forest paths toward the main courtyard. Take a minute to write a wish on an ema wooden plaque near the central trees.

  2. Takeshita Street

    Explore this pedestrian avenue filled with colorful clothing boutiques and snack stalls. Walk at a steady pace to navigate the dense foot traffic during peak hours.

  3. Shibuya Crossing

    Cross the famous multi-directional pedestrian intersection alongside hundreds of commuters. For a higher view, head to the second-floor windows of nearby public buildings overlooking the street.

  4. Shibuya Sky

    Step onto the open-air rooftop deck to look down at the surrounding skyscrapers and urban grid below. It is better to book ahead, especially if you want to visit close to sunset.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

DAY3
Tokyo

Landscaped Gardens and Neon Alleys in Shinjuku

Explore sprawling traditional gardens before stepping into retro alleys and high-rise panoramas. This day highlights the green spaces and evening lights of central Tokyo.

  1. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

    Wander through distinct garden styles ranging from Japanese ponds to English landscape lawns. Bring water and comfortable walking shoes, as the perimeter pathways cover considerable ground.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

  2. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck

    Elevate to the 45th floor for sweeping view lines toward distant mountain ranges and the city grid. Check visibility conditions on clear days when Mt. Fuji can be seen on the horizon.

  3. Omoide Yokocho

    Walk down narrow lantern-lit alleys packed with small counter-seated food stalls. Keep to the pedestrian path and respect local shopfront space when taking photographs.

DAY4
Tokyo

Seafood Markets and Digital Art along Tokyo Bay

Travel along the waterfront to taste fresh market goods and immerse yourself in digital installations. Tokyo Bay offers expansive open views and modern interactive design.

  1. Tsukiji Outer Market

    Navigate the busy market lanes to sample fresh seafood and traditional tamagoyaki rolled omelets. Visit early in the morning when stallholders are setting out their freshest produce.

  2. teamLab Planets Tokyo

    Wade through knee-deep water and interact with room-sized digital projections and light installations. It is better to book ahead and wear pants that can easily roll up above the knees.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

  3. Odaiba Island & Liberty Statue

    Walk along the seaside promenade facing the Rainbow Bridge and the scale replica statue. Plan your walk around dusk when the suspension bridge lights turn on across the bay.

DAY5
Kyoto

Shinto Shrines and Historic Stone Streets of Higashiyama

Explore Kyoto's classic eastern district, starting with iconic vermilion gates before wandering through preserved stone lanes and lantern-lit alleys.

  1. Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Walk along the endless trails lined with thousands of vermilion torii gates stretching up Mount Inari. Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy a quiet climb.

  2. Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Take in panoramic city views from the spacious wooden stage built without a single nail. It is better to book ahead online during peak travel seasons.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

  3. Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka

    Stroll down these historic stone-paved pedestrian paths featuring traditional wooden storefronts and local craft shops. Watch your step on the steep stone steps while browsing handmade ceramics.

  4. Yasaka Shrine

    Visit this bustling Shinto shrine that bridges the Higashiyama district to nearby parkland, featuring rows of hanging paper lanterns. Return after sunset when the paper lanterns are fully illuminated.

  5. Gion District

    Walk through the historic quarters filled with dark wood machiya townhouses and narrow alleys. Keep to the main thoroughfares and respect private side streets where signage indicates restricted access.

  6. Pontocho Alley

    Stroll along this narrow pedestrian corridor running parallel to the river to observe classic evening architecture. Walk through in the early evening when lights reflect off the wet cobblestones.

DAY6
Kyoto

Bamboo Groves and Northern Zen Gardens

Travel westward to the bamboo forests of Arashiyama before moving north to inspect world-renowned Zen rock landscapes and gold leaf architecture.

  1. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

    Walk through the towering path of green bamboo stalks swaying gently in the breeze. Visit shortly after dawn to experience the quiet rustle of the grove without large crowds.

  2. Tenryu-ji Temple

    Explore the historic Zen temple complex and its preserved 14th-century garden framed by surrounding mountains. Buy a combined garden and main hall entry ticket at the gate for complete access.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

  3. Kimono Forest

    Observe the outdoor art installation made of tall acrylic cylinders displaying intricate Yuzen silk textile patterns. Visit in the late afternoon as the pillars begin to light up.

  4. Ryoan-ji Temple

    Contemplate the famous Zen dry landscape garden featuring fifteen mysterious rocks set in raked white gravel. Sit on the wooden veranda in silence to take in the simple layout from different angles.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

  5. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

    View the top two floors covered in real gold leaf reflecting over the mirror-like pond. Follow the designated one-way walking path around the pond for unobstructed photo angles.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

DAY7
Kyoto

Canals, Shogun Castles, and Culinary Markets

Follow a historic canal path in the east before heading into central Kyoto to tour a shogun stronghold and sample local food items.

  1. Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

    Tour the Zen temple complex famous for its precise sand cone and raked dry sand gardens. Walk the elevated trail behind the main pavilion for a clear view over the entire moss garden.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

  2. Philosopher's Path

    Walk along the stone pedestrian trail following a canal shaded by trees connecting Ginkaku-ji to Nanzen-ji. Take a slow pace along the path and look out for local freshwater fish in the canal.

  3. Nanzen-ji Temple Grounds

    Inspect the grand wooden Sanmon entrance gate and the unusual 19th-century red-brick aqueduct standing inside the complex. Climb to the upper deck of the gate for elevated views over the forest canopy.

  4. Nijo Castle

    Tour the historic residence built for the Tokugawa shoguns, known for its squeaking nightingale security floors and detailed screen paintings. It is better to book ahead to secure an entry time slot during busy travel months.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

  5. Nishiki Market

    Walk through five blocks of covered market stalls packed with traditional ingredients, skewers, and regional specialties. Eat purchased food directly at the stand where you bought it, as eating while walking down the narrow aisle is discouraged.

DAY8
Osaka

Samurai Fortresses, Ancient Lore and Market Aisle Traditions

Discover the historical foundation of Osaka by exploring majestic castle grounds, interactive heritage exhibits, and vibrant market lanes.

  1. Osaka Castle Park

    Walk through sprawling lawns and grand stone walls surrounding the central fortress grounds. Arrive early in the morning to enjoy peaceful views before tourist crowds gather near the moats.

  2. Osaka Castle Main Keep

    Climb through multi-level historical exhibits to reach the top deck for sweeping city panoramas. It is better to book ahead online to skip the main queue at the entrance.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

  3. Osaka Museum of History

    Experience life-sized historical re-creations detailing the city's evolution from ancient palace grounds to a modern metropolis. Take the elevator straight to the top floor first and work your way down.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

  4. Kuromon Ichiba Market

    Stroll down lively covered aisles filled with vendors grilling fresh seafood skewers and local delicacies. Bring cash in small denominations as many market stalls do not accept cards.

  5. Namba Yasaka Shrine

    Visit this tucked-away neighborhood sanctuary dominated by an imposing twelve-meter lion head stage designed to swallow bad luck. Frame your photo directly in front of the open jaws for the best perspective.

DAY9
Osaka

Trendsetting Boulevards, Neon Canals and Futuristic Skyways

Immerse yourself in Osaka's contemporary energy through indie fashion hubs, iconic neon-lit arcades, and high-altitude architectural landmarks.

  1. Orange Street

    Explore boutique design stores, vintage clothing racks, and local craft shops along Horie's quiet tree-lined avenue. Visit during early afternoon when most independent galleries and shops open their doors.

  2. America-mura

    Wander through the epicenter of local youth culture, famous for vibrant street art, thrift shops, and quirky fashion outlets. Look up to spot the miniature Statue of Liberty perched atop one of the corner buildings.

  3. Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street

    Walk along this famous covered shopping arcade packed with traditional craft stores, cosmetics shops, and fashion outlets. Stick to side alleyways if you need a quieter pace during peak shopping hours.

  4. Dotonbori

    Immerse yourself in the signature entertainment strip filled with towering neon signs, moving giant crab displays, and bustling river views. Walk along the lower canal promenade to capture the reflections of neon billboards on the water.

  5. Hozenji Yokocho

    Step off the main neon strip into a quiet stone-paved alleyway illuminated by lantern light. Pour a ladle of water over the moss-covered statue of Fudo Myoo for good luck.

  6. Umeda Sky Building

    Ride the glass-walled elevator up to the open-air Kuchu Teien Observatory bridging two futuristic towers. Arrive right before sunset to watch the city lights turn on across the urban landscape.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

DAY10
Hiroshima and Miyajima

Peace Memorials and Historic Gardens of Hiroshima

Focus on the historic heart of Hiroshima, tracing the city's journey from memory to modern renewal along its riverbanks.

  1. Atomic Bomb Dome

    Stand before the preserved steel and concrete skeleton that survived the blast along the Motoyasu River. Walk around the perimeter to view the structure from different angles across the water.

  2. Children's Peace Monument

    Observe the monument topped with a bronze figure holding a golden crane, surrounded by glass display cases of folded paper cranes sent from around the world. Ring the peace bell suspended beneath the canopy.

  3. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

    Examine personal belongings, photographs, and survivor accounts documenting the nuclear explosion. Plan to spend a quiet block of time inside as the exhibits are detailed and emotional.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

  4. Hiroshima Castle

    Explore the reconstructed five-story wooden exterior and moat, which houses exhibits on regional samurai history. Walk up to the top level for a view over the city skyline.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

  5. Shukkeien Garden

    Stroll around the central pond along winding paths, miniature bridges, and shaded tea pavilions. Purchase small bags of fish food near the entrance to feed the carp in the water.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

DAY11
Hiroshima and Miyajima

Sacred Heritage and Temples of Miyajima

Cross the Seto Inland Sea to Miyajima to discover historic Shinto structures, quiet temple complexes, and traditional seaside streets.

  1. Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street

    Walk through the main covered thoroughfare lined with traditional craft workshops and local street vendors. Look out for the free-roaming local deer that wander calmly down the pavement.

  2. Senjokaku Hall

    Step inside the vast open-sided timber hall, featuring massive wooden pillars and hanging votive paintings. Take off your shoes before stepping onto the polished wooden floor.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

  3. Itsukushima Shrine

    Walk along the boardwalks floating over the tide, connecting the vermilion main hall, shrine stages, and prayer rooms. Check tide tables in advance to visit when the sea covers the pylons beneath.

    Tickets · KlookPartner link

  4. Miyajima Great Torii Gate

    View the famous wooden gate standing in the bay directly off the shores of Itsukushima Shrine. Walk down to the mudflats during low tide to touch the base of the pillars.

  5. Daisho-in Temple

    Wander through this hillside Buddhist complex filled with hundreds of small statue figures wearing knitted caps, prayer wheels, and steep stairs. Spin the bronze wheels along the entrance staircase to receive blessings as you ascend.

Itinerary map

Tokyo

1.1 Senso-ji Temple 1 1.2 Tokyo Skytree 2 1.3 Ueno Park 3 1.4 Ameyoko Shopping Street 4 2.1 Meiji Shrine 1 2.2 Takeshita Street 2 2.3 Shibuya Crossing 3 2.4 Shibuya Sky 4 3.1 Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden 1 3.2 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck 2 3.3 Omoide Yokocho 3 4.1 Tsukiji Outer Market 1 4.2 teamLab Planets Tokyo 2 4.3 Odaiba Island & Liberty Statue 3

Kyoto

5.1 Fushimi Inari Taisha 1 5.2 Kiyomizu-dera Temple 2 5.3 Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka 3 5.4 Yasaka Shrine 4 5.5 Gion District 5 5.6 Pontocho Alley 6 6.1 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 1 6.2 Tenryu-ji Temple 2 6.3 Kimono Forest 3 6.4 Ryoan-ji Temple 4 6.5 Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) 5 7.1 Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) 1 7.2 Philosopher's Path 2 7.3 Nanzen-ji Temple Grounds 3 7.4 Nijo Castle 4 7.5 Nishiki Market 5

Osaka

8.1 Osaka Castle Park 1 8.2 Osaka Castle Main Keep 2 8.3 Osaka Museum of History 3 8.4 Kuromon Ichiba Market 4 8.5 Namba Yasaka Shrine 5 9.1 Orange Street 1 9.2 America-mura 2 9.3 Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street 3 9.4 Dotonbori 4 9.5 Hozenji Yokocho 5 9.6 Umeda Sky Building 6

Hiroshima and Miyajima

10.1 Atomic Bomb Dome 1 10.2 Children's Peace Monument 2 10.3 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum 3 10.4 Hiroshima Castle 4 10.5 Shukkeien Garden 5 11.1 Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street 1 11.2 Senjokaku Hall 2 11.3 Itsukushima Shrine 3 11.4 Miyajima Great Torii Gate 4 11.5 Daisho-in Temple 5

Schematic map: points are in their real positions, streets are not drawn.

Tickets: indicative costs

  • teamLab Planets Tokyo · 2 h€24
  • Tokyo Skytree · 2 h€18
  • Shibuya Sky · 1 h 30 min€14
  • Umeda Sky Building · 1 h 30 min€10
  • Nijo Castle · 2 h€8
  • Tenryu-ji Temple · 1 h 30 min€4
  • Osaka Castle Main Keep · 2 h€4
  • Osaka Museum of History · 2 h€4
  • Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden · 2 h€4
  • Ryoan-ji Temple · 1 h€4
  • Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) · 1 h€4
  • Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) · 1 h€4
  • Kiyomizu-dera Temple · 2 h€3
  • Hiroshima Castle · 1 h 30 min€3
  • Itsukushima Shrine · 1 h 30 min€2
  • Shukkeien Garden · 1 h 15 min€2
  • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum · 2 h 30 min€2
  • Senjokaku Hall · 45 min€1

Indicative prices in euros, data from October 24, 2026. Always check the price on the partner’s site before booking.

Where to stay

Shinjuku, Tokyo

First-time visitors wanting dense transport links and active night streets

Staying near the central station allows direct train access to every corner of Tokyo. The area is filled with high-rise hotels, dining corridors, and non-stop pedestrian traffic.

Gion District, Kyoto

Travelers seeking traditional wooden architecture and walkable historic streets

This eastern district places you near historic lanes like Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka. It is quiet in the late evening once daytime sightseeing crowds clear out.

Namba, Osaka

Food enthusiasts and urban explorers

Namba puts you steps away from Dotonbori and Kuromon Ichiba Market. The area serves as a major transit node for trips to Nara Park and regional lines.

Hiroshima Station Area

Practical travelers looking for quick rail and tram connections

Lodging near the main railway terminal simplifies arrival by Shinkansen and day trips to Miyajima. Streetcars stop directly in front of the station for easy access to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

What to eat

Ramen
Photo: Ocdp, CC0, Wikimedia Commons

Ramen

Wheat noodles served in a rich meat or seafood broth, topped with sliced pork and green onions. It is a quick daily meal eaten at counter seats throughout all major cities.

Takoyaki
Photo: heiwa4126, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Takoyaki

Bite-sized spherical batter balls filled with minced octopus, cooked on a special iron griddle. They are served hot with savory sauce and bonito flakes, originating as an Osaka street snack.

Okonomiyaki
Photo: ume-y, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Okonomiyaki

A savory pancake made with cabbage, flour, egg, and various toppings cooked on a flat teppan grill. Hiroshima style layers ingredients with noodles, while Osaka style mixes everything into the batter.

Tonkatsu
Photo: Minseong Kim, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Tonkatsu

A thick pork cutlet coated in flaky panko breadcrumbs and deep-fried until crisp. It comes served with shredded cabbage, steamed rice, and a dark, tangy Worcestershire-based sauce.

Matcha Sweets

Finely ground green tea powder used to flavor parfaits, soft-serve ice cream, and traditional rice cakes. Kyoto is especially known for tea houses serving high-grade matcha alongside local confections.

When to go

  • Spring brings cherry blossoms, creating heavy crowds at major temple gardens and parks.
  • Autumn offers clear skies, bright foliage, and comfortable walking conditions across all cities.
  • Winter features smaller crowds and crisp weather, though daylight hours are shorter.
  • Early summer brings higher humidity and frequent rain showers throughout the central region.

Getting there

  • Fly into Haneda Airport or Narita International Airport to begin the journey in Tokyo.
  • Kansai International Airport serves as an alternate entry point near Osaka and Kyoto.
  • High-speed Shinkansen trains run regularly along the Tokaido and Sanyo lines connecting Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima.
  • Kansai Airport Express and express rail lines connect the main international hubs directly to city centers.

Getting around

  • Subway networks in Tokyo and Osaka provide fast transport between major districts.
  • Public buses in Kyoto link the central train station to spread-out sight sites.
  • Ferry boats connect the mainland near Hiroshima directly to Miyajima island.
  • Rechargeable IC transit cards work seamlessly across trains, subways, and buses in all four cities.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Trying to visit Kyoto sights by car or taxi during peak afternoon rush, when public rail is faster.
  • Walking while eating street food; local custom expects diners to stand near the stall until finished.
  • Underestimating walking distances inside large train hubs like Tokyo and Osaka stations.
  • Boarding express trains without checking if they stop at smaller local destinations along the line.
  • Packing heavy luggage for Shinkansen transit instead of using luggage transfer services between hotels.

Frequently asked questions

How many days should be spent in each city?

Allocate four days to Tokyo to cover distinct districts, three days to Kyoto for major temples, two days to Osaka for food and culture, and two days to Hiroshima and Miyajima.

Is it easy to travel between cities with large suitcases?

Trains have limited overhead storage for massive bags. Utilizing overnight luggage shipping services between hotel front desks makes train travel far easier.

How do visitors reach Miyajima from Hiroshima?

Take a local train or tram west to Miyajimaguchi Station, then walk to the ferry terminal for a brief boat ride across the bay.

Do public transit systems run late into the night?

Subways and city trains generally stop running around midnight. Plan late-night travel around local walking routes or licensed taxis.

Before you go

✈️ Flights

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Flights to TokyoFlights to Osaka Partner link · Aviasales

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