Budget Solo Traveler’s Itinerary for a 10-Day Trip to Japan – First Time Visit

Hello!

As a fellow Japanophile, I have been planning a trip to Japan for a long time. Unfortunately, my previous application for a Japanese visa was rejected, which left me feeling bittersweet. However, my drive to visit Japan has returned and I am now planning to go in June, which also happens to be my birthday month, making it a special occasion.

Here is my itinerary for a 10-day trip to Japan, all under $2000 including airfare, accommodation, a 7-day JR Pass, and a food budget of $50 per day.

As a hardcore foodie and convenience store enthusiast, I am hoping to try a variety of foods during my trip. Additionally, I would love to get my first tattoo from a Japanese artist, if my budget allows it.

Please let me know your thoughts on my itinerary.

Total Price: $2000 (including flights, accommodation, 7-day JR Pass, and $50 per day for food)

Day 1 to 3 – Tokyo
Day 4 to 5 – Kyoto
Day 6 to 7 – Osaka
Day 8 to 9 – Hiroshima
Day 10 – Tokyo

Day 1: Tokyo

Arrive in Tokyo and explore the city on foot or by taking the JR Yamanote line to see popular attractions such as Shibuya Crossing, Harajuku, and Shinjuku.

Day 2: Tokyo

Visit Tsukiji Market early in the morning fori breakfast.
Visit other attractions such as Sensoji Temple, Meiji Shrine, and the Tokyo Skytree.

Day 3: Tokyo

Take a day trip to Kamakura to see the Great Buddha and explore the city’s many temples and shrines.

Day 4: Kyoto

Take a bullet train (shinkansen) from Tokyo to Kyoto.
Visit popular attractions such as Kinkakuji Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Gion District.

Day 5: Kyoto

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Nijo Castle, and the Philosopher’s Path.

Day 6: Osaka

Take a train from Kyoto to Osaka.
Visit popular attractions such as Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Shinsekai.

Day 7: Osaka

Take a day trip to Nara to see the Todaiji Temple and the famous deer park.
Return to Osaka in the evening

Day 8: Hiroshima

Take a bullet train from Osaka to Hiroshima.
Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, and Miyajima Island.

Day 9: Hiroshima

Visit the Hiroshima Castle, Shukkeien Garden, and Hiroshima Children’s Museum.

Day 10: Tokyo

Take a bullet train from Hiroshima to Tokyo.

For Accommodation –

Tokyo – Nui. Hostel & Bar Lounge
Kyoto – Piece Hostel Sanjo
Osaka – Imano Osaka Shinsaibashi Hostel
Hiroshima – Santiago Guesthouse Hiroshima
Final Day in Tokyo – Imano Tokyo Hostel

1 comment
  1. Where are you flying out of, because that alone can be like 1/2-3/4 of your entire budget (you don’t have to answer that publicly, just Google the flight that’s similar to one you want, like Sydney to Tokyo or NYC to Tokyo, and that’ll do most of the legwork for that).

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