Japan in a week: Tokyo → Kanazawa → Osaka

🗓 Day by day

1. Tokyo Arrival & Initial Impressions

   I arrived in Tokyo and settled into my hotel before heading straight to Asakusa. Sensō‑ji’s lanterns, incense, and the busy little stalls on Nakamise‑dori felt like the perfect welcome to Japan. After a quick snack, I moved over to Shibuya to experience the famous crossing. Watching the city light up from Shibuya Sky at sunset was such a beautiful way to start the trip. Dinner was simple ramen in Shibuya before calling it a night.

2. Tokyo: Shrines, Style, and City Life

   I started the morning at Meiji Shrine, walking through the peaceful forest path as the city slowly woke up. From there, I wandered into Harajuku’s colorful streets before heading into Omotesandō for a more elegant vibe with cafés and architecture I love. I ended the evening in Ginza, which always feels cinematic with its glowing storefronts and polished atmosphere.

3. Excursion from Tokyo and Evening Transfer to Kanazawa

   This day was dedicated to exploring outside Tokyo. Depending on the weather, you can choose Hakone for hot springs and Fuji views, or Kamakura for temples, bamboo and ocean breezes. After the day trip, I returned to Tokyo Station and took the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa. The moment I stepped out of the station, the pace felt calmer and refreshing. I took a small walk around Higashi Chaya before resting.

4. Exploring Kanazawa: Gardens, Castle, and Samurai Quarter

   My first full day in Kanazawa was magical. I headed straight to Kenrokuen Garden, and because it was winter for me, snow made everything feel soft and poetic. I had matcha overlooking the garden, then walked to Kanazawa Castle, where I unexpectedly caught a falconry demonstration. Later, I explored the Nagamachi Samurai District and ended the day with warm soba in a cozy local shop. Everything was walkable and peaceful.

5. Discovering Art, Tea Houses, and a Vintage Café Before Osaka

   I woke up excited because my reservation for the 21st Century Museum was finally here. I grabbed an onigiri at the combini and walked to the museum. The famous Swimming Pool artwork is definitely worth booking in advance. After spending more time than expected inside, I crossed the street for lunch, but I ended up at a tiny 80s-style café instead, run by the sweetest older lady who made me the warmest royal milk tea. Later, I wandered through Higashi Chaya again before catching my evening train to Osaka. When I arrived, Dotonbori was glowing and buzzing with energy. I tried takoyaki by the canal and loved the contrast from quiet Kanazawa.

6. Osaka: Markets, Castles, and Nightlife

   I started the day at Kuromon Market, trying wagyu skewers, fresh sashimi and fruit. From there, I walked to Osaka Castle to explore the grounds and climb up for city views. In the afternoon, you can choose between staying in Osaka or taking a half‑day trip to Nara. I stayed in the city and ended my evening back in Dotonbori, wandering under the neon lights and tasting okonomiyaki. Osaka is big, colorful and fun in a very different way from Tokyo.

7. Final Return to Tokyo and Departure

   I took the shinkansen back to Tokyo, did some last‑minute shopping around the station, and headed to the airport. Ending the trip where it began feels full‑circle and makes departures smooth and stress‑free.