12 days in Tokyo, Osaka & Kyoto Itinerary

Tokyo holds the status of most populous metropolitan area in the world--a fact you'll find tangible as you walk the bustling streets and explore its diverse neighborhoods and cultures.

Change things up with a short trip to Tokyo DisneySea in Maihama (about 40 minutes away). There's much more to do: don't miss a visit to Meiji Jingu Shrine, take in the spiritual surroundings of Senso-ji Temple, get a sense of history and politics at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Buildings, and take in nature's colorful creations at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.

To find where to stay, maps, other places to visit, and tourist information, read our Tokyo road trip planning website.

Naha to Tokyo is an approximately 5-hour flight. You can also do a combination of ferry and train; or do a combination of ferry, bus, and train. Plan for a bit cooler temperatures traveling from Naha in June, with highs in Tokyo at 30°C and lows at 22°C. You'll have a few hours on the 23rd (Wed) to wrap things up before traveling to Osaka.

Proud of their hometown's distinct culture and dialect, many natives of Osaka describe their city as "Japan's anti-capital." An antidote to Tokyo's hectic energy, Osaka marches to the beat of its own drum, serving as the country's longtime commercial and industrial hub.

Change things up with these side-trips from Osaka: Himeji (Koko-en, Himeji Castle, &more). There's lots more to do: find something for the whole family at Universal Studios Japan, see the interesting displays at Osaka Shiritsu Toyo Toji Museum, don't miss a visit to Tempozan Ferris Wheel, and get up close and personal with brilliant marine life at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.

To find other places to visit, more things to do, reviews, and tourist information, use the Osaka online trip builder.

Traveling by train from Tokyo to Osaka takes 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly; or drive. June in Osaka sees daily highs of 32°C and lows of 22°C at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 26th (Sat) to allow enough time to take a train to Kyoto.

The national capital for over a thousand years, Kyoto retains much of the charm of old Japan, boasting numerous temples and shrines that seem completely untouched by the modern world.

Kyoto is known for historic sites, shopping, and classes. Your plan includes some of its best attractions: steep yourself in history at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, wander the streets of Gion, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Kinkaku-ji, and visit Arashiyama.

For photos, where to stay, reviews, and tourist information, go to the Kyoto road trip planning website.

Traveling by train from Osaka to Kyoto takes an hour. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a bus. In June, plan for daily highs up to 32°C, and evening lows to 22°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 30th (Wed) to allow enough time to travel back home.