What to do in Japan for 5 days? Explore the Land of the Rising Sun in a completely different way with this Japan itinerary 5 days (5 days in Japan itinerary, 5d4n Japan itinerary, Japan travel itinerary 5 days) – why not? You’re sure to love this experience!
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Japan – a country with unique traditions and culture – has been and continues to be a popular destination for many tourists worldwide. If you’re planning a colorful and experiential trip, this 5-Day 4-Night Japan Trip is the perfect choice.
On this trip, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the distinctive features of Japanese culture, learn about history, enjoy unique cuisine, and experience life in this country. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit famous landmarks such as Tokyo, the ancient city of Kyoto, and the entertainment city of Osaka.
Japan itinerary 5 days — Day 1: Sagano Bamboo Forest – Kyoto Imperial Palace – Kyoto Tower
On your first day in Japan, you can dedicate a full day to exploring the following famous tourist attractions in Kyoto and enjoy a refreshing start to your trip.
Sagano Bamboo Forest
The Sagano Bamboo Forest is a must-see destination when visiting the ancient capital of Kyoto during your Japan trip. At any time of year, the Sagano Bamboo Forest always boasts a unique and striking beauty, but what will captivate you most is the peaceful atmosphere, expansive scenery, and refreshing sounds that Sagano offers.
When visiting the Sagano Bamboo Forest, you’ll have the opportunity to explore many highlights in the area via the Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train. Sagano Kyoto is also famous for other attractive landmarks such as Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama Garden, and Tenryu-ji Temple. You can participate in activities such as boat trips on the river, tea leaf baths, and enjoying Japanese cuisine here.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
The Kyoto Imperial Palace, located in the heart of the ancient capital of Kyoto, is a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It served as the residence of the Japanese Emperors, who once held supreme power.
Kyoto Imperial Palace & Nijo Castle Small Group Guided Walking Tour
Inside the palace, the ancient buildings exude an air of majesty and are surrounded by a river, lush greenery, and flowers blooming throughout the four seasons. All of this, combined with the open space, creates a harmonious and incredibly impressive landscape.
Viewing the Ancient Capital from Kyoto Tower
Kyoto Tower is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kyoto, Japan. This 131-meter-high observation tower, built in 1964, is located in the center of Kyoto city. One of the most memorable experiences when visiting Kyoto Tower is watching the sunset from its summit. As the sun begins to set, the stunning cityscape of Kyoto is bathed in a golden glow, creating a truly breathtaking scene.
Additionally, from Kyoto Tower, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city with famous landmarks such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Toji Temple, and Chion-in Temple, and even as far as Osaka on a clear day!
Day 2: Osaka Castle – Hakutsuru Sake Museum – Kobe Harborland
On the second day from Kyoto to Osaka, you can purchase a Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass via the railway to enjoy the wonderful sights in Osaka.
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle, built in the 16th century, is considered one of the most famous tourist attractions in Japan, attracting millions of visitors every year. The castle’s unique architecture combines traditional style with modern amenities.
It features numerous historical artifact galleries, exhibitions on Japanese culture, and a vast garden with stone-paved paths and a clear blue pond, creating a peaceful and romantic space right in the heart of the city.
Hakutsuru Sake Museum
The Hakutsuru Sake Museum in Kobe, Japan, is a unique destination with a long history and prestige in sake production. Here, you can explore the history and traditional Japanese sake brewing process, visit the exhibition rooms, and participate in free sake tastings. In addition, the museum’s beautiful Japanese garden is a relaxing spot in the heart of the city.
Exploring Kobe Harborland
Kobe Harborland is a popular tourist complex in Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Located at the gateway to Kobe Port, this area includes numerous office buildings, shopping centers, entertainment areas, and restaurants.
Kobe Harborland boasts expansive open spaces, beautiful scenery, and modern architecture, creating a luxurious and relaxing atmosphere for tourists. This area boasts large shopping centers such as Kobe Harborland umie, Kobe Anpanman Children’s Museum & Mall, and Kobe Harborland ATC, offering tourists a wide variety of products and services.
Day 3: Nara Park – Dorogawa Hot Spring Center – Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Day 3 is a trip to Nara City in Japan, known for its many historical and natural attractions. We start at Nara Park, then relax at the Dorogawa Hot Spring Center, and finally stop at the ancient Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
Nara Park
Nara Park is the largest and oldest urban park in Japan, established in the 1880s. Covering 660 hectares, the park offers many interesting activities, but is most famous for its herds of deer roaming freely. The park also boasts important historical sites such as Todai-ji Temple and Kofuku-ji Temple. A popular tourist destination, Nara Park attracts millions of visitors every year.
Dorogawa Onsen Visitor Center
The Dorogawa Hot Spring Center, a leading hot spring center in Japan, is renowned for its natural hot springs. Located in the Yoshino mountain region, this place is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and lush green forests.
The center has many hot spring pools with different temperatures where you can relax and enjoy the health benefits of hot water. The hot water here is said to be rich in minerals and has healing effects on body-related ailments such as back pain, joint pain, and muscle pain. Besides hot springs, the center also offers other recreational activities such as skiing and mountain climbing in winter, and picnicking and cycling in summer.
Kasuga Shrine
Kasuga Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Nara City, Japan. Built in the 8th century, it features distinctive architecture with red wooden pillars and white tiled roofs. Kasuga Shrine is famous for the thousands of red lanterns hung throughout during its annual festivals, creating a vibrant and beautiful spectacle.
This place is also a shrine dedicated to Shinto deities, including those representing the imperial family, the sun, and the mountains. The shrine is considered a national treasure of Japan and a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors annually who come to learn about Japanese history and culture.
Kyoto and Nara Day Tour from Kyoto or Osaka
The Kyoto and Nara Day Tour from Kyoto, with its attractive itinerary, will take you to Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nara Park, the ancient Todai-ji Temple, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine. You can book this tour in advance for the third day for your convenience and to avoid the hassle of planning.
5d4n Japan itinerary — Day 4: Mount Fuji & Oshino Hakkai Ancient Village or Spend a Day Exploring Tokyo Disney Resort
The fourth day of your trip is your chance to challenge yourself with a super exciting choice: return to the majestic nature of Mount Fuji and Oshino Hakkai ancient village, or spend a whole day living in a fairytale at Tokyo Disney Resort. Whether it’s mountains or Mickey Mouse, this will surely be one of the most memorable days of your trip!
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji – A famous destination in Japan with its pristine beauty and mythology. Reaching an altitude of 3,776m, it is the highest mountain in Japan and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can climb the mountain, enjoy local food, visit temples and shrines around the mountain, or bathe in hot springs. In winter, Mount Fuji becomes a popular skiing destination, while in spring, the peak is covered in white snow and cherry blossoms bloom.
Mt. Fuji 5th.St & Hakone Ropeway& Gotemba Outlets from Tokyo
If you’re visiting Japan for the first time, renting a private car to explore Mount Fuji and its surroundings is a quick and easy option; you won’t need to spend hours navigating train stations anymore.
Oshino Hakkai Ancient Village
5G eSIM Japan | Softbank/Docomo
Oshino Hakkai Ancient Village in Yamanashi, Japan, is famous for its stunning natural scenery and some of the most beautiful, crystal-clear lakes. These lakes, preserved in their natural state for centuries, were formed by the waters of Mount Fuji.
In addition, you’ll find vineyards and tea plantations, local restaurants, souvenir shops, and traditional Japanese temples. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and find peace.
Tokyo Disney Resort Park
Located in Urayasu City (Chiba Prefecture), just a 15-minute train ride from central Tokyo, Tokyo Disney Resort is a dream destination for all Disney fans – from children to adults. This complex comprises two main parks: Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, each offering a unique world with its own colors, stories, and magic.
Tokyo Disneyland is inspired by famous American parks like Disneyland California and Magic Kingdom Florida, featuring iconic areas such as Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and Adventureland – where fairy tales, futuristic technology, and jungle adventures blend together.
Meanwhile, Tokyo DisneySea is the only park in the world with a marine theme, featuring areas like the Mediterranean Bay, American Harbor, and the enchanting Mermaid Lagoon. Each area is designed with exquisite detail and offers an incredibly immersive experience.
Besides top-notch games and shows, the resort also boasts a system of hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops designed in the Disney style – making you feel like you’re living in the world of animation. This is not just an amusement park, but a place where dreams are illuminated by magic.
Tokyo Disney Resort – Tokyo Disneyland & Tokyo DisneySea Park Tickets
Day 5: Tokyo Imperial Palace – Asakusa Temple – Nakamise Dori Shopping District
Enjoy your last day in Japan by renting a private car in Tokyo to explore interesting places like the Tokyo Imperial Palace, Asakusa Temple, and don’t forget to buy some souvenirs!
Tokyo Imperial Palace
The Tokyo Imperial Palace is the residence of the Japanese Imperial Family and is extremely famous in Tokyo. Located in the heart of the city, the Tokyo Imperial Palace has distinctive architecture and is surrounded by lush gardens and parks. You can visit most of the palace grounds and learn about the history and culture of the Japanese Imperial Family.
Asakusa Temple
Asakusa Kimono&Yukata Rental at Kimono Miyabi Asakusa in Main Branch
Asakusa Temple, also known as Senso-ji, boasts a history of over 1,300 years. Built in the 7th century, it has become one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Asakusa Temple is renowned for its distinctive Japanese architecture, the Kannon Buddha statue, and numerous shops selling traditional crafts.
Nakamise Dori Shopping District
Nakamise Dori is located in the Asakusa district of Tokyo, Japan. It’s one of Tokyo’s largest and oldest shopping streets, featuring over 90 souvenir and jewelry shops.
You can find many typical Japanese items such as kimonos, decorative fans, washi paper, festival publications, and traditional snacks like senbei and manju. Additionally, the area offers many restaurants, cafes, and drinks to enjoy. With its beautiful setting and countless choices, Nakamise Dori is an attractive shopping destination when visiting Tokyo.
Asakusa Rickshaw Experience in Tokyo
Estimated 5-Day 4-Night Japan Travel Costs
Experience a wonderful country with a 5-day 4-night trip through the above information from Living Nomads, and you’re sure to have many memorable experiences. But how much money do you need to prepare for a complete trip? Let’s find out.
| Category | Cost per person |
|---|---|
| Vietnam - Kyoto one-way flight ticket | 7,000,000 VND |
| Tokyo - Vietnam one-way flight ticket | 5,000,000 VND |
| Hotel stay for 5 days and 4 nights | 7,800,000 VND |
| JR Pass for All of Japan | 5,329,721 VND |
| Half-Day Tour: Romantic Train Ride in Kyoto Sagano, Arashiyama, and Kiyomizudera | 1,258,281 VND |
| Kyoto Tower Ticket | 143,804 VND |
| Osaka Castle Tickets | 107,853 VND |
| Kyoto and Nara Day Tour from Kyoto | 3,271,532 VND |
| Day Trip to Mount Fuji and Hakone | 2,300,857 VND |
| Tokyo Disney Resort Park Tickets | 1,509,938 VND |
| Asakusa History Discovery Tour: 1400 Years | 2,516,563 VND |
| Total | 36,238,549 VND |
(*) The above cost estimate for a 5-day 4-night Japan trip is for reference only, as it does not include expenses for food, shopping, and additional services. Furthermore, costs may vary slightly if you travel during peak season.
A Few Tips to Make Your 5-Day, 4-Night Japan Trip Easier
To make your 5-day, 4-night Japan trip a complete success from A to Z without too much worry, you should keep these super useful tips in mind!
First, let’s talk about airfare. You should plan early and “hunt” for good deals on online platforms – the earlier you book, the more you save. Once in Japan, getting around the prefectures will be much easier if you use a JR Pass, or for more flexibility, choose long-distance buses or hire a private car with a driver if you’re traveling in a group.
Regarding accommodation, hotels around the city center are usually more convenient for getting around and exploring, but if you want to save money, you can choose hotels a little further from the center – as long as they are near a train station or bus terminal. Booking early is a good way to avoid price increases, especially if you’re traveling during festival season or cherry blossom season.
Finally, don’t forget to prepare your internet! Buying a 4G SIM card or renting a Wi-Fi hotspot is a simple way for the whole group to stay connected, look up information, book tickets, get directions – and of course… constantly update your social media photos!
We hope you have an exciting and surprising trip. And of course, we are always ready to accompany you on every journey to explore new lands! Go ahead and confidently embark on your 5-day, 4-night trip to Japan!
Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Tokyo you can refer to
- Mt Fuji & Hakone Day Tour: Lake Ashi & Ropeway Day Trip from Tokyo
- Nikko Cultural Day Tour from Tokyo
- Tokyo Subway Ticket (24, 48, or 72 Hours)
- Shuttle Bus Transfers (One Way/Round Trip) from Shinjuku/Ikebukuro to Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea
- Tokyo Disney Resort Park Ticket
- Klook Pass Greater Tokyo
- SHIBUYA SKY Ticket
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter Ticket
- Skyliner Narita Airport Express Ticket
- TeamLab Planets Ticket
- TOKYO SKYTREE® Ticket
- Limousine Bus Narita or Haneda Airport to Tokyo
- Skyliner Narita Airport Express With Tokyo Subway Ticket
- JR Tokyo Wide Pass
- Sky Hop-on and Hop-off Bus Pass
- 4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
- JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)
Are you looking for more Tokyo travel guide and top things to do in Tokyo: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Tokyo itinerary 3 days — What to do in Tokyo in 3 days?
