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Discover the magic of Japan through a thoughtfully planned 9-day itinerary, perfect for first-time travelers. From vibrant cityscapes and cultural landmarks to theme parks and breathtaking natural views, this guide brings together the best of Japan — blending tradition, modern life, and unforgettable experiences across Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo.
To make our trip smooth and stress-free, we booked most of our activities, transportation, and key experiences through Klook. The platform offered convenience, competitive pricing, and reliable options, allowing us to focus on enjoying every moment of our journey.
For your convenience, attractions and experiences mentioned throughout this guide are linked below for easy reference and planning.
Pre-Departure Preparation
Visa Application
As first-time travelers to Japan, we decided to apply for our visa directly at VFS, bypassing an agency. About four months before our target travel date, we started scouting for available appointments. We booked a schedule exactly three months before our trip, choosing the premium lounge at VFS Makati. Being first-timers, we appreciated the in-depth assistance from the staff, who were kind, hands-on, and guided us through finalizing all requirements — making it totally worth it.
The Japan Embassy website provides a detailed list of requirements and even sample application forms, which was extremely helpful. Praise the Lord, a week later, we received our passports with visas secured — a huge relief!
Health & Safety Preparations
Since our trip was scheduled for the second week of December, we paid attention to the seasonal health advisories. Hearing about a flu outbreak, we decided to get a flu vaccine to be safe. While out in public, we wore face masks, removing them only for photos. An unexpected benefit of wearing a mask during cold weather was that it kept our faces warmer, which was a lifesaver since temperatures ranged from 4°C to 12°C during our trip.
To further prepare for the cold, we also purchased sticky heat patches and pocket hand warmers from convenience stores. These small items made a noticeable difference during long walks and outdoor activities.
Travel Insurance
We secured travel insurance via the GCash app, which made acquisition direct, fast, and hassle-free. Having coverage gave us peace of mind, especially for a long trip with a detailed itinerary spread across multiple cities.
Luggage & Packing Strategy
Since our itinerary involved multiple destinations, we researched luggage delivery services ahead of time. We prepared a backpack with our next-day outfit and essentials, so even if our main luggage was sent ahead, we had what we needed for the day. We used Yamato and Airporter services during this trip, and both worked efficiently, allowing us to explore hands-free.
Money & Transportation
Cards are widely accepted in Japan, but we also carried cash for convenience. For train transportation, we used the ICOCA IC card throughout Osaka and Tokyo, which worked seamlessly and made entering and exiting stations fast and hassle-free.
Footwear & Walking Preparation
Japan involves a lot of walking, so footwear is critical. We recommend choosing shoes based on your foot arch, width, and length, not just popular recommendations. Our pair, Asics Gel Nimbus 27 (Birch/Indigo Blue), was perfect — we wore it every day.
We also used calf compression, which helped reduce fatigue throughout the day. If you already have compression socks, bring them along — they make a big difference during long days of sightseeing. Additionally, convenience stores sell cooling patches that are great for soothing tired muscles after hours of walking.
Immigration & Airport Preparation
Before flying, we registered an account on Japan Web and saved the QR code. This made immigration and customs much faster and smoother upon arrival.
Day 1 – Arrival & Dotonbori Exploration
After touching down, the first thing we did was pick up a SIM card for internet connection, which we had conveniently booked through Klook. Having mobile data from the start made navigation, train schedules, and communication a breeze.
Next, we headed to Yamato for our luggage delivery service. This was a game-changer — by sending our luggage directly to Granbell Hotel Osaka, our hands were completely free, making it much easier to handle trains and transfers without dragging heavy bags around.
Before heading out, we also withdrew cash using our GCash Card, as Japan still relies heavily on cash in many places. For train travel around Osaka and the surrounding areas, we used our ICOCA card, which made hopping on and off trains incredibly convenient.
Once we checked in at Granbell Hotel Osaka and settled in, it was time to explore the city. We strolled down to the Dotonbori area, famous for its vibrant lights, bustling streets, and endless food options. From iconic neon signs to the famous Glico Man, the area was alive with energy and excitement — a perfect introduction to Osaka. We wandered through the streets, tasting street food, taking photos, and soaking in the unique vibe of the city.
Day 2 – Universal Studios Japan
This day is all about thrills and adventure at Universal Studios Japan. We were lucky enough to visit on a day when the park wasn’t too crowded, which meant we could explore freely without long waits. It made a huge difference in enjoying everything the park has to offer.
USJ felt like an adult theme park with its extreme rides — some of them still make my heart race every time I think about them! From high-speed roller coasters to immersive themed attractions, the park truly delivers an adrenaline-packed experience. It wasn’t just the rides, though; the attention to detail in the themed areas, from Super Nintendo World, Harry Potter’s Hogwarts to the bustling streets of New York City, made walking around a visual treat in itself.
We also got to experience some lighter attractions, taking breaks in themed cafes and enjoying street performances along the way. Even though it was our first time at USJ, navigating the park was straightforward thanks to the official app, which helped us check ride times, plan our route, and maximize our day.
Day 3 – Nara Day Trip & Kobe Exploration
We headed to Nara Park with one goal in mind: see the famous deer that bow when offered treats! It was such a fun and unique experience — the deer were surprisingly friendly, and watching them interact with visitors was both amusing and memorable. After spending time feeding the deer and taking photos, we walked a little further down the streets to reach Todaiji Temple, one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks. The massive Great Buddha and traditional architecture made it well worth the stroll.
After a morning in Nara, we made our way to Kobe for lunch, where we indulged in their world-renowned Kobe beef. Words don’t fully capture how amazing it was — the first bite still lingers in my memory. The meat was clean, fresh, soft, and truly melted in our mouths, living up to all the hype. Steak in Japan is truly on a whole different level — an unforgettable culinary experience.
Day 4 – Kyoto: Temples, Shrines & Traditional Streets
We started the morning by asking the hotel staff for assistance with luggage delivery. They arranged the service through Yamato Delivery, sending our bags from Osaka to Granbell Hotel Shinjuku. Since our luggage was expected to arrive the next day — the same day our Tokyo tour would begin — it was comforting to know that we could start our exploration hands-free.
Kyoto greeted us with its serene streets and timeless charm. Walking down Ninenzaka Street, the cobblestone path lined with traditional shops and tea houses immediately made us feel like we had stepped back in time. The neighborhood was quiet and peaceful, and simply strolling through it felt like a mini tour in itself.
At Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the crisp, chilly breeze added a refreshing edge to the day. The temple’s stunning architecture and sweeping views of Kyoto were breathtaking, and the calm atmosphere made it easy to linger and take it all in. It wasn’t just the landmarks that captivated us — every corner of the area radiated the city’s historic charm, from the peaceful side streets to the traditional houses.
Kyoto’s beauty lies in wandering and discovering. Even without a strict itinerary, exploring the streets and temple grounds made for an unforgettable experience.
Day 5 – Tokyo Highlights: Shibuya & Shinjuku
We took the Shinkansen with reserved seats, booked conveniently through Klook, and enjoyed a smooth and comfortable ride to Tokyo. After a few transfers, we finally arrived in Shibuya, ready to explore one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.
Our first stop was the Hachiko Statue, conveniently located near the station exit. Seeing the famous loyal dog statue in person was a memorable experience and a perfect starting point for exploring the area. Just a short walk away, we found ourselves at the Shibuya Crossing, where the organized chaos of hundreds of people crossing from all directions was truly fascinating. It’s one of those sights you have to experience to believe.
As night fell, we headed to our booked entry at Shibuya Sky. From the rooftop observation deck, the city lights stretched endlessly in every direction. The view was breathtaking, and I was genuinely impressed by how wide, vibrant, and lively Tokyo felt from above. Standing there, overlooking the city buzzing with life, made me realize just how unique and energetic this metropolis is.
Day 6 – Asakusa & Ueno: Local Tokyo
Exiting the station, I was surprised by how peaceful yet lively this neighborhood felt. The streets were big and bustling with life, but somehow, people didn’t seem to be in a rush. Walking toward Nakamise Street, we were greeted by yellow leaves still hanging from the trees, adding a calming touch to the crisp autumn air. It felt refreshing, like the city itself was welcoming us slowly and gently.
We wandered through every nook and cranny of the streets, discovering smaller stores tucked away from the main drag. Many of these hidden shops offered better deals than the main street, making it perfect for souvenir hunting. Eventually, we reached the iconic Senso-ji Temple, soaking in its grandeur and tranquil surroundings while taking photos and enjoying the atmosphere.
In the afternoon, we made our way to Ueno, which was buzzing with locals as it was the weekend. The markets here were lively, colorful, and full of incredible bargains. This was the place where we bought most of our pasalubong, finding prices far cheaper than other areas we had visited. I particularly enjoyed the fruit selection, which was fresh, vibrant, and perfectly arranged — a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
Day 7 – Mt. Fuji Day Tour
The day was dedicated to a Mt. Fuji Tour, which we booked through Klook, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable parts of our trip. One of our first stops was the famous Lawson convenience store, where Mt. Fuji stands beautifully in the background. Seeing the mountain rise behind such an ordinary street scene felt surreal and instantly set the tone for the day.
At Oishi Park, we were able to see the lake up close. Standing by the water with the cold wind brushing against us, the view of Mt. Fuji was absolutely mesmerizing. From this vantage point, the mountain felt calm yet powerful, making it easy to simply pause and take everything in.
The journey continued to Honcho Street, where a busy road perfectly frames Mt. Fuji in the distance. The contrast between everyday city life and the quiet presence of the mountain made this spot especially fascinating.
From Shimoyoshida Station, we walked through a few quiet alleys before reaching the base of Chureito Pagoda. The climb to the top was well worth it. From above, Mt. Fuji stood proudly with its iconic snow-capped peak, clear and unobstructed. We felt truly blessed to witness the mountain in such perfect conditions.
After visiting Chureito Pagoda, we headed to the Fujisan World Heritage Center. This stop was a pleasant surprise — the center offered a wide variety of unique Mt. Fuji souvenirs along with local delicacies that gave us a taste of the region. It was a great place to slow down, explore, and pick up meaningful items to remember the day by.
Day 8 – Tokyo Disneyland
Before starting our outdoor agenda, we asked for assistance at the hotel reception for luggage delivery. Their partnered service provider, Airporter, made the process simple — we left our luggage at the lobby, ready for pickup. Knowing that our bags would be waiting for us at the arrival area of Narita Airport the next day gave us peace of mind and allowed us to enjoy the day hands-free and stress-free.
Disneyland was the focus of the day, and we arrived at the park around 10:30 AM. Contrary to what we had seen all over social media, we weren’t greeted by intimidating lines at the entrance. Everything went smoothly, and the experience felt far less overwhelming than we had expected.
With lighter crowds in the morning, we were able to move around comfortably and take photos here and there without feeling rushed. After lunch, more people started to arrive, but even then, the lines for the rides continued to move steadily, making the wait manageable.
The parades and shows were a highlight. They were long, entertaining, and full of energy. Despite the crowds, everything was incredibly well-organized. About half an hour before the parades started, people began securing their viewing spots, yet there was still plenty of space to enjoy the performances. The atmosphere was lively and magical, and it was easy to get swept up in the excitement.
More than the rides, Disneyland gave us a moment to heal our inner child — a smooth, joyful experience that stayed magical despite the growing crowd.
Day 9 – Departure
Departure day was a reminder that when they say Japan runs on time, they truly mean it. We rode the Skyliner to Narita Airport, and arriving early wasn’t just recommended — it was necessary. Everything operated with precision, and being ahead of schedule made the entire departure process much smoother.
We picked up our luggage at the JAL ABC counter, which was easy to locate and well-organized. Before lining up for check-in, we learned that it’s important to print your boarding pass and luggage tags at the self-service kiosks. If you don’t have them ready, staff will politely ask you to return and print them before proceeding. The kiosks are located at the center of the check-in area, making them easy to find.
Once everything was printed, the check-in process moved efficiently. If you arrive early, there’s also a large seating area on the left end of the terminal, just before Counter A, where you can sit, rest, and organize your belongings while waiting. It’s a comfortable spot, especially after days of nonstop travel.
Leaving Japan felt bittersweet, but the smooth and orderly departure was a fitting end to an unforgettable 9-day journey.
I hope you found this article helpful and gained some useful insights for your upcoming trip. Wishing you safe travels and an amazing journey ahead!