What to Visit in 10 Days in Japan with a Group of Friends: The Ultimate Itinerary

Ten days in Japan with your friends? Get ready for unforgettable moments — from neon-lit nights in Tokyo to peaceful mornings in Kyoto’s temples.

Whether you’re foodies, culture seekers, or adventure lovers, this itinerary blends energy, tradition, and a little magic ✨


🗼 Day 1–3: Tokyo – Big City, Big Energy

Must-Sees:

  • Shibuya Crossing & Hachikō Statue 🐕
  • Harajuku for quirky shops & crepes
  • Asakusa for Senso-ji Temple + street snacks
  • Akihabara if you love anime, arcades, or tech
  • Shinjuku at night: izakayas, karaoke, and skyline views

🍜 Food tip: Visit a conveyor belt sushi spot or grab ramen from Ichiran for a fun group experience.

🛏 Where to stay: Shinjuku or Shibuya — central and full of life.


🎢 Day 4: Day Trip to Hakone or Fuji

Choose your vibe:

Hakone (relaxing):

  • Soak in an onsen (hot spring)
  • Ride the Hakone Ropeway with views of Mount Fuji
  • Take the pirate ship across Lake Ashi ⛴️

Mount Fuji (adventurous):

  • Visit the Fifth Station
  • Explore nearby Fujikawaguchiko for scenic lakes and cute cafes
  • Team hike, if you’re feeling bold!

🧖‍♀️ Bonus: Stay overnight in a ryokan with a traditional Japanese dinner.


🚅 Day 5: Travel to Kyoto – City of Temples & Tradition

Use your JR Pass and take the shinkansen (bullet train) — fast, fun, and iconic.

Afternoon in Kyoto:

  • Wander Gion, the old geisha district
  • Sip matcha at a quiet tea house 🍵
  • Dinner with a riverside view on Pontocho Alley

🌸 Day 6–7: Kyoto – Tranquil & Timeless

Top Sights:

  • Fushimi Inari Shrine — 1,000 red torii gates ⛩️
  • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove + monkey park
  • Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
  • Kiyomizu-dera for dreamy views

👘 Group idea: Rent yukata or kimono for a day and take photos around Higashiyama.


🏯 Day 8: Nara – Deer & Serenity (Day Trip from Kyoto)

  • Feed the friendly deer at Nara Park 🦌
  • Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to a giant Buddha
  • Try local snacks like mochi or persimmon sweets

📸 Perfect for a relaxed, photogenic group day.


🏙 Day 9: Osaka – Food, Fun & Nightlife

Explore:

  • Dotonbori for wild signs, street food, and river vibes
  • Kuromon Market for takoyaki & grilled scallops
  • Osaka Castle if you want a historic touch
  • Shinsekai for retro charm and casual fun

🎮 Nightlife tip: Try a game bar or arcades for friendly competition.


✈️ Day 10: Back to Tokyo or Fly from Kansai

  • If you’re flying from Tokyo, take the shinkansen in the morning and enjoy a last stroll through Ueno Park or grab souvenirs in Ginza.
  • If flying from Osaka, enjoy one last group brunch and take it slow.

💡 Tips for Group Travel in Japan:

  • Get a JR Pass if you’re using trains a lot
  • Buy an IC card (like Suica) for easy metro rides
  • Book accommodations early, especially for Kyoto
  • Use lockers at train stations for luggage-free exploring
  • Try group capsule hotels or hostels — fun, affordable, and sociable

Ten days will fly by — but the memories? Those are yours forever.
Pack comfy shoes, charge your cameras, and let Japan dazzle you — together 💛🌸