11 days in Japan Itinerary

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.

Your day-by-day itinerary now includes SpaWorld, Minami (Namba) and Shinsekai. There's more to do: get in on the family fun at Universal Studios Japan and explore the historical opulence of Osaka Castle.

For where to stay, more things to do, reviews, and tourist information, read our Osaka trip itinerary planner.

Shanghai, China to Osaka is an approximately 5.5-hour flight. You can also ride a ferry. Traveling from Shanghai to Osaka, you'll lose 1 hour due to the time zone difference. In January, daytime highs in Osaka are 10°C, while nighttime lows are 1°C. On the 26th (Sun), you'll travel 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.

Your day-by-day itinerary now includes Nishiki Market Shopping District as well as Gion. There's more to do: contemplate the long history of Kiyomizu-dera Temple and take in the spiritual surroundings of Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine.

Make your Kyoto itinerary with Inspirock to find out what to see and where to go.

Kyoto is just a short distance from Osaka. In January in Kyoto, expect temperatures between 10°C during the day and 1°C at night. On the 29th (Wed), you'll travel to Tokyo.

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.

Tokyo is known for historic sites, parks, shopping, museums, and nightlife. Your plan includes some of its best attractions: admire the landmark architecture of Tokyo Tower, engage your brain at National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation Miraikan, walk around Ueno Park, and get your game on at Owl cafe Akiba Fukurou.

Plan a Tokyo trip in moments using our itinerary builder.

You can take a train from Kyoto to Tokyo in 3 hours. Other options are to fly; or drive. January in Tokyo sees daily highs of 11°C and lows of 1°C at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 1st (Sat) to allow enough time to travel back home.