The Golden Route is Japan's most popular multi-city trip for a reason — it connects the country's biggest contrasts in one smooth rail journey. Neon-lit Tokyo, the hot springs of Hakone, ancient temples in Kyoto, and the street food capital of Osaka. All linked by the Shinkansen (bullet train), one of the best travel experiences in the world.
Here's how to do it in 10 days without rushing.
The route at a glance
Tokyo (4 nights) → Hakone (1 night) → Kyoto (3 nights) → Osaka (2 nights)
Total travel time between cities: under 6 hours across the entire trip. The Shinkansen does the heavy lifting — Tokyo to Kyoto is just 2 hours 15 minutes.
Days 1–4: Tokyo
Tokyo deserves at least 4 days. It's a city of distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own personality.
Day 1 — Arrival & Shinjuku
Arrive at Narita or Haneda, activate your Japan Rail Pass, and take the train to your hotel. Spend the evening exploring Shinjuku — the neon-drenched entertainment district. Don't miss Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) for tiny yakitori bars under the train tracks.
Day 2 — Shibuya & Harajuku
Morning at Meiji Shrine, then walk through Harajuku for Takeshita Street and Omotesando's architecture. Afternoon in Shibuya — the famous scramble crossing, Shibuya Sky observation deck, and the backstreets of Nonbei Yokocho.
Day 3 — Asakusa & Akihabara
Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa is Tokyo's oldest and most atmospheric. Walk the Nakamise shopping street, then head to Akihabara for gaming arcades, manga shops, and electronics. Perfect for anime and pop-culture fans.
Day 4 — Tsukiji & Teamlab
Morning at Tsukiji Outer Market for the freshest sushi breakfast you'll ever have. Afternoon at teamLab Borderless (book tickets in advance — it sells out). Evening in Roppongi or Ginza for a more upscale vibe.
Day 5: Hakone
Take the Romancecar express from Shinjuku (90 minutes) to Hakone. This volcanic valley is famous for hot springs, Lake Ashi, and views of Mount Fuji on clear days.
Must-do: The Hakone Loop — a circuit of trains, cable cars, ropeways, and pirate boats that takes you through the whole area. Stay at a ryokan (traditional inn) with a private onsen bath.
Budget tip: The Hakone Free Pass covers all transport in the loop and is excellent value.
Days 6–8: Kyoto
Take the Shinkansen from Odawara (near Hakone) to Kyoto — about 2 hours.
Day 6 — Eastern Kyoto
Fushimi Inari (the thousands of orange torii gates) early morning to beat crowds. Then walk the Philosopher's Path through the eastern hills, passing Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) and Nanzen-ji temple.
Day 7 — Arashiyama & Western Kyoto
Bamboo Grove at dawn (arrive by 7am for empty paths). Visit Tenryu-ji temple and the monkey park. Afternoon at Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). Evening in the Gion district — Kyoto's geisha quarter.
Day 8 — Day trip to Nara
Just 45 minutes by train, Nara is home to over 1,000 free-roaming deer in a park surrounding the massive Todai-ji temple (housing a 15-metre bronze Buddha). It's one of Japan's most magical experiences and perfect for families.
Days 9–10: Osaka
Take the Shinkansen from Kyoto to Osaka — just 15 minutes.
Day 9 — Dotonbori & street food
Osaka is Japan's kitchen. Head straight to Dotonbori for takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). The neon canal-side strip is electric at night. Visit Osaka Castle in the afternoon.
Day 10 — Shinsekai & departure
Explore Shinsekai — a retro neighbourhood with a completely different vibe to Dotonbori. Try the kushikatsu here (it originated in this area). If you have time, Kuromon Market is Osaka's version of Tsukiji.
Budget breakdown
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | £30–50 | £80–150 | £200+ |
| Food (per day) | £15–25 | £40–60 | £80+ |
| Japan Rail Pass (7-day) | £175 | £175 | £175 |
| Activities | £10–20/day | £20–40/day | £50+/day |
| 10-day total (approx) | £800–1,200 | £1,500–2,500 | £3,500+ |
Rail pass tips
- The 7-day JR Pass covers Tokyo → Hakone → Kyoto → Osaka and most Shinkansen lines. Activate it on Day 4 or 5 to cover the travel-heavy section.
- A 14-day pass is worth it if you're adding day trips (Hiroshima, Himeji, or Koyasan).
- Buy the pass online before you go — it's cheaper than buying in Japan.
Best time to visit
- Cherry blossom season (late March – mid April): Iconic but very crowded. Book hotels 3+ months ahead.
- Autumn colours (mid November – early December): Equally beautiful, slightly less crowded.
- Summer (July – August): Hot and humid. Avoid unless you're heading to festivals.
- Winter (January – February): Cold but uncrowded. Great for onsen and snow.
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