Planning a trip to Japan and feeling overwhelmed? You’ve landed in the perfect spot! Japan is a captivating country, boasting breathtaking natural landscapes, ancient temples steeped in history, and the vibrant energy of bustling cities. It truly offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. Crafting your ideal Japan itinerary might seem daunting, but with these insider tips, the planning process will become much smoother and enjoyable! Keep reading to discover a well-rounded 7-day Japan travel itinerary, designed to maximize your time in this extraordinary country.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you book through my links, at no extra cost to you.
RELATED: 2 Days in Shanghai | Weekend Shanghai Itinerary
Your 7-Day Japan Travel Itinerary at a Glance:
- Days 1-2: Tokyo – Immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of the world’s largest metropolis.
- Days 3-4: Hakone – Escape to the serene mountainscapes, hot springs, and stunning views of Mt. Fuji.
- Days 5-7: Kyoto – Journey back in time in Japan’s ancient capital, filled with traditional temples and geisha districts.
- BONUS: Niseko Itinerary (For winter travelers with more than 7 days, experience world-class powder snow!)
Japan Trip Essentials:
- PTO/Vacation Days Needed: 7-9 days to fully enjoy this itinerary.
- Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY)
- Arrival Airport: Fly into Tokyo Haneda (HND) for closer city access or Narita (NRT) for potentially more international flight options.
- Estimated Cost: $$$ (Mid-range to higher end, depending on your travel style and accommodation choices)
Pro Tip: Get into the Japanese spirit before you even depart! Order a Tokyo Treat box filled with delicious Japanese snacks and candies. It’s a fun way to build excitement for the incredible food adventures awaiting you in Japan, or a thoughtful gift to share the taste of Japan with someone after your trip!
When is the Best Time to Visit Japan?
Japan is a fantastic destination year-round, each season offering a unique charm. However, the peak of summer (June-August) can be intensely hot and crowded, so it’s generally less ideal. The shoulder seasons of spring (March-May) and fall (September-October) are widely considered the best times to travel to Japan. During these months, you’ll enjoy pleasant, mild temperatures perfect for exploring. Spring brings the iconic cherry blossoms (sakura) in mid-March, a truly spectacular sight, but also the busiest and potentially most expensive travel period.
For winter sports enthusiasts, January and February are prime months for skiing and snowboarding in Japan. Japan is renowned for its exceptional powder snow, making it a world-class winter destination.
Getting Around Japan: The Japan Rail Pass is Your Best Friend
Navigating Japan is remarkably efficient thanks to its incredibly well-organized and lightning-fast train system. My top recommendation for smooth and cost-effective travel is to invest in a 7-day Japan Rail Pass. If you’re planning a longer stay, 14 and 21-day passes are also available. The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) grants you unlimited travel on all JR lines throughout Japan, including the famous Shinkansen bullet trains, local trains, and even some JR buses and ferries.
While the 7-day pass costs around $220 for adults, it’s a worthwhile investment. Even if you only take a couple of bullet train journeys, along with local trains and monorails, the JR Pass will likely save you money compared to purchasing individual tickets – train travel in Japan can be surprisingly expensive! Beyond the cost savings, the JR Pass simplifies your entire transportation experience. You bypass ticket queues at stations and enjoy seamless travel across the country.
You have two class options for the JR Pass: “Ordinary” and “Green Car” (first class). While the Green Car might seem appealing for just a slightly higher price, I advise sticking with the “Ordinary” pass. Green Car requires seat reservations at ticket counters before each journey, adding extra time and planning. With the Ordinary pass, you can hop on most trains and choose any unreserved seat in the designated cars, offering greater flexibility.
Important Note: You must purchase your JR Pass before you arrive in Japan, at least 14 days prior to your trip. You can easily buy it online here. After your online purchase, a voucher will be mailed to your home address. Bring this voucher with you to Japan and exchange it for your actual JR Pass at the airport or major JR stations upon arrival.
Your Detailed 7-Day Japan Itinerary
Days 1-2: Tokyo – Big City Buzz and Iconic Landmarks
Begin your 7-day Japan adventure in Tokyo, the world’s largest city! As your likely arrival point (via Haneda – HND or Narita – NRT airport), Tokyo is the perfect place to either start or end your Japan itinerary.
Tokyo’s sheer size and energy can feel overwhelming at first. With just two days, don’t aim to conquer everything. Instead, select a few key highlights that pique your interest and dedicate time to simply wandering, soaking in the unique atmosphere of this incredible city.
Where to Stay in Tokyo: Shinjuku for First-Timers
For your first Tokyo experience, Shinjuku is an excellent neighborhood to base yourself. Shinjuku embodies the quintessential Tokyo image – towering skyscrapers illuminated by vibrant neon lights. It’s also home to the legendary “Golden Gai” bar district (more on that later!).
Top Hotel Picks in Tokyo:
-
Luxury: Park Hyatt Tokyo
The Park Hyatt in Shinjuku is an icon, famously featured in “Lost in Translation,” boasting an unforgettable rooftop lounge with panoramic city views. A splurge-worthy stay for a truly special experience.
-
Mid-Tier: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
Perfectly located in the heart of Shinjuku, Hotel Gracery is just a short 9-minute stroll from Golden Gai, making it ideal for nightlife exploration. Consistently praised for its excellent reviews and comfortable accommodations.
-
Large Group Option: Zukiya Shinjuku Vacation Home
If you’re traveling with a larger group, Zukiya Shinjuku Vacation Home is a fantastic and budget-friendly choice in a prime location. This spacious three-story home features 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, comfortably accommodating larger parties. The thoughtful host even provided a welcome note and delicious matcha mochi treats upon arrival!
Getting Around Tokyo: Efficient and Easy
Tokyo boasts an extensive and efficient train network that connects all neighborhoods, easily accessible with your JR Pass. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also readily available for convenient point-to-point transportation.
Must-Do Activities in Tokyo for 2 Days:
Make sure to include these iconic experiences in your 2-day Tokyo itinerary:
Shibuya Crossing: The World’s Busiest Intersection
It might sound simple, but experiencing Shibuya Crossing is a quintessential Tokyo moment. This iconic scramble crossing in Shibuya City is famed as the busiest intersection on the planet! Join the throngs of pedestrians and feel the pulse of Tokyo’s energetic rhythm.
Shibuya Sky Observation Deck: 360° City Views
For breathtaking panoramic vistas of Tokyo, ascend to the Shibuya Sky observation deck. You’ve likely seen images of its famous escalator leading to unparalleled 360-degree views of the sprawling cityscape. Book your tickets in advance (approximately $13) for a specific time slot, especially if you want to catch the sunset – sunset slots are the most popular and sell out quickly!
Source: Creative Commons
Immerse Yourself in a Themed Cafe
Tokyo is renowned for its quirky and imaginative themed cafes scattered throughout the city. From Owl Cafes where you can enjoy coffee alongside owls, to micro-pig cafes, the options are delightfully unique. I stumbled upon a charming Cat Cafe Mocha in Shinjuku and had a wonderful time interacting with the adorable and cuddly feline residents. Cat cafes typically charge by time spent (around $7 for 30 minutes at Cat Cafe Mocha), allowing you to customize your experience.
Explore the Electric Streets of Harajuku
Harajuku is synonymous with unique street style and youth culture (perhaps you recognize the name from Gwen Stefani’s music!). This vibrant district in Shibuya is largely pedestrianized, making it perfect for strolling and discovering cool boutiques, trendy cafes, and eye-catching street performers. Start your exploration on Takeshita Street, the heart of Harajuku’s fashionable scene.
The Shibuya and Harajuku areas are also treasure troves for thrift store enthusiasts. Take your time to wander and pop into some of the many vintage clothing shops to uncover unique fashion finds.
Immerse Yourself in a Tokyo Listening Bar
For music lovers, a visit to a Tokyo Listening Bar is a must-do cultural experience. These intimate bars exclusively play vinyl records, fostering an atmosphere of quiet appreciation for music. Conversations are kept to a minimum (or whispers!), allowing patrons to fully immerse themselves in the music while enjoying a cocktail. Some highly-regarded listening bars include Jazz Blues Soul Bar, Paper Moon, Bar Track, and Bar Martha.
Indulge in Tokyo’s Culinary Delights
Tokyo is a global food paradise. From world-class sushi and ramen to comforting udon and savory yakitori, the city offers an endless array of culinary experiences. Numerous food blogs detail the best dining spots, but here are a few personal recommendations to get you started:
- Hakata Tenjin: Authentic and delicious ramen in Shinjuku. A tiny, hidden gem with incredible flavor.
- Mikore Sushi: A local, casual sushi spot offering exceptionally fresh and affordable sushi, a refreshing alternative to formal omakase experiences.
- Ichiran Ramen: The first ramen restaurant to earn a Michelin star! Their Shinjuku location is open late (or very early – we went around 5 am!) with surprisingly short wait times. Order your personalized ramen from a vending machine and enjoy it in a private individual booth for a unique and delicious experience.
- Udon Shin: Kyoto’s most popular udon restaurant – so popular it’s incredibly difficult to get in! Arrive right when they open and add your name to the electronic waitlist. You’ll receive a QR code to track your place in line.
Park Hyatt Rooftop Bar: Lost in Translation Views
A quintessential Tokyo experience and a must for your 7-day Japan itinerary is a visit to the iconic Park Hyatt hotel rooftop bar for sunset cocktails. Immortalized in “Lost in Translation,” this bar offers breathtaking panoramic city views and expertly crafted cocktails. Dress code is smart casual, and expect a cover charge in the evening.
Explore the Tiny Bars of Golden Gai
Golden Gai, tucked away in Shinjuku, is a true highlight of Tokyo’s nightlife and a must-see on your 7-day Japan itinerary. This unique district comprises over 200 tiny bars nestled within six narrow alleyways. Each bar is incredibly intimate, often accommodating only 5-10 patrons, and each boasts its own distinct personality and ambiance. Wander through the lantern-lit alleys and hop into different bars to experience the diverse and convivial atmosphere. Most bars in Golden Gai charge a cover fee (common for cocktail bars in Japan), typically ranging from 300-800 yen (around $2-5 USD). The cover is usually added to your bill at the end, along with your drink charges.
Imperial Palace: History and Serenity in the City
Visiting the Imperial Palace is a popular activity in Tokyo, offering a glimpse into Japan’s imperial history. The palace, the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan, is situated within a peaceful park-like area in the heart of the city. Free guided tours of the palace grounds are available (reservations recommended). Don’t miss exploring the serene Imperial Palace East Garden nearby.
Source: Wikimedia
Witness Sumo Wrestling (If Timing Permits)
Sumo, Japan’s national sport, is a captivating cultural experience. If your trip coincides with a sumo tournament in Tokyo (held in January, May, and September), attending a match is highly recommended. Even outside of tournament times, you might be able to observe morning practice sessions. Unfortunately, my March visit didn’t align with any sumo events, giving me a perfect reason to plan a return trip!
7-Day Japan Itinerary: Part 2 – Mountain Serenity in Hakone
Days 3-4: Hakone – Nature, Hot Springs, and Fuji Views
After the electrifying energy of Tokyo, Hakone offers a refreshing change of pace. This mountain resort town is famed for its natural hot springs (onsen), stunning views of Mt. Fuji, and tranquil natural beauty. Hakone makes a popular day trip from Tokyo, but I strongly recommend spending at least one or two nights to fully immerse yourself in its relaxing atmosphere. Hakone was undoubtedly one of my favorite destinations on this 7-day Japan itinerary, particularly appealing to nature lovers!
Essential Tip: Hakone Free Pass
Before heading to Hakone, be sure to purchase the Hakone Free Pass! This pass covers transportation to Hakone from Tokyo and unlimited travel within the Hakone region, including the scenic Hakone Ropeway (cable car) and the iconic pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi. Priced around $45 USD, the Hakone Free Pass is excellent value for both cost savings and convenience, eliminating the need to purchase individual tickets for each mode of transport.
Similar to the JR Pass, you can purchase the Hakone Free Pass online in advance and receive a voucher. Exchange your voucher for the actual pass at the Odakyu Sightseeing Service Center in Shinjuku Station before your Hakone trip. The pass is valid for either 2 or 3 consecutive days.
Getting to Hakone from Tokyo: Romance Car for Speed and Comfort
Several transportation options connect Tokyo and Hakone, including bullet trains to Odawara Station. However, the fastest and most direct route is the Odakyu Line “Romance Car” limited express train from Shinjuku Station directly to Hakone-Yumoto Station. The journey takes approximately 85 minutes. While the base fare is covered by your Hakone Free Pass, a small surcharge applies for the Romance Car (around $10 extra). In my opinion, the Romance Car is well worth the extra cost for its speed, comfort, and time-saving convenience. You can pay the Romance Car surcharge when you exchange your Hakone Free Pass voucher at Shinjuku Station.
Where to Stay in Hakone: Authentic Ryokan Experience
Our Ryokan – Yaeikan
During your 7-day Japan itinerary, I highly recommend experiencing a traditional Japanese inn, or “Ryokan,” for at least one or two nights. Ryokans offer a unique cultural immersion, typically featuring tatami mat flooring, futon bedding on the floor, multi-course Kaiseki dinners served in your room, and often, onsen (natural hot spring baths) for guest use. While Ryokans can be pricier than standard hotels, the price often includes meals, and the overall experience is truly unforgettable and worth the splurge.
Hakone’s serene natural environment, renowned for Mt. Fuji views and hot springs, makes it the perfect location to indulge in a Ryokan stay during your 7 days in Japan.
Choosing a Ryokan in Hakone can feel overwhelming, given the numerous options. To narrow down your search, I wholeheartedly recommend Yaeikan Ryokan, where I stayed and had a wonderful experience.
I selected Yaeikan based on its mid-range pricing, excellent reviews, convenient walking distance to Hakone-Yumoto train station, and the option of a private onsen in the room. Our stay was exceptional – the elaborate multi-course dinner and breakfast were culinary delights, and the private in-room onsen provided ultimate relaxation.
Top Things to Experience in Hakone:
Hakone is a region of stunning natural beauty and tranquility. Beyond relaxing at your Ryokan, there’s much to explore! The simple map below provides a visual overview of the Hakone area, with various points of interest conveniently connected by transportation options covered by the Hakone Free Pass.
1. Visit the Iconic Hakone Shrine
The Hakone Shrine is a definite highlight of any 7-day Japan itinerary. Perched on the shores of Lake Ashi, the shrine is known for its iconic red torii gate standing in the lake water. To reach Hakone Shrine, take the Hakone Tozan Bus (Line H) from Hakone-Yumoto Station (approx. 35 minutes) to Moto-Hakone Boat Pier. From there, it’s a pleasant 5-10 minute walk to the shrine.
2. Pirate Ship Cruise on Lake Ashi: Fuji Views Await
A primary reason to include Hakone in your 7-day Japan itinerary is the chance to witness the majestic Mt. Fuji, Japan’s highest peak. Your first panoramic view of Mt. Fuji will unfold during the pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi. After visiting Hakone Shrine, stroll to the nearby boat docks and board the whimsical pirate ship. The pirate ship cruise ticket is included with your Hakone Free Pass. The cruise lasts about 30 minutes, traversing the lake to the opposite shore. Keep an eye out for Mt. Fuji – the breathtaking view typically appears just minutes after departing the port. Head to the upper deck for the most unobstructed and stunning photo opportunities!
3. Owakudani Volcanic Valley: Black Eggs and Steaming Vents
After disembarking the pirate ship cruise at Togendai, take the Hakone Ropeway (or bus, if the ropeway section is temporarily closed) to Owakudani. This dramatic volcanic valley was formed by the eruption of Mount Hakone centuries ago. Witness steam vents rising from the active sulphuric landscape, a truly unique geological spectacle. Don’t miss trying Owakudani’s famous black hard-boiled eggs, sold in the gift shop. Legend says that eating one black egg adds 7 years to your life! The eggs taste like regular hard-boiled eggs, but their shells are blackened due to being cooked in the sulphuric hot springs of the Owakudani valley.
From the Owakudani parking area, you can also enjoy another fantastic vantage point for viewing Mt. Fuji!
4. Hakone Ropeway: Scenic Cable Car Journey
Continue your Hakone adventure with a ride on the Hakone Ropeway! This cable car (or gondola lift) is not just a means of transportation to return towards Hakone-Yumoto, but a highlight in itself. The ropeway journey offers breathtaking aerial views of the volcanic valley below and stunning panoramas of Mt. Fuji in the distance.
Returning to Hakone Yumoto Station is straightforward. Signage is well-placed for day-trippers following this popular route. After disembarking the Ropeway, follow signs for the cable car to Gora Station. From Gora Station, take the Hakone Tozan train back towards Hakone-Yumoto Station.
5. Hakone Open-Air Museum: Art and Nature融合
The Hakone Open-Air Museum is a popular Hakone attraction that I sadly didn’t have time for on this trip. This unique outdoor museum showcases a captivating collection of contemporary and abstract sculptures set against the backdrop of Hakone’s natural beauty. It’s easily accessible via public transportation covered by the Hakone Free Pass.
6. Explore Hakone-Yumoto Town
Around Hakone-Yumoto train station, you’ll find charming streets lined with shops and restaurants worth exploring. I stumbled upon a fantastic Soba noodle restaurant (unfortunately, I didn’t note the name as it was in Japanese!) and a delightful ice cream shop on a corner. Right outside the ice cream shop, discover a small foot onsen where you can enjoy your ice cream while soaking your feet in the warm spring water – a perfect way to relax after exploring!
7-Day Japan Itinerary: Part 3 – Ancient Culture in Kyoto
Days 5-7: Kyoto – Temples, Tradition, and Geisha Charm
Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital, is simply captivating. This city is a treasure trove of traditional Japanese architecture, with stunning temples, serene shrines, and historic imperial palaces seemingly around every corner.
Best Area to Stay in Kyoto: Gion for First-Timers
For your first visit to Kyoto, I highly recommend staying in the Gion district. Gion embodies the quintessential Kyoto atmosphere – charming cobblestone streets, locals and visitors strolling in elegant kimonos, and numerous shrines and temples within easy walking distance. Staying in Gion puts you within walking distance of many excellent restaurants and traditional bars as well.
Consider staying in a traditional Japanese Machiya house in the Gion area, like this beautiful VRBO rental:
source: VRBO – Imagine a zen garden in your bathroom!
Top Things to Do in Kyoto:
Kyoto offers a wealth of cultural and historical experiences for the final three days of your 7-day Japan itinerary. You could potentially see all the listed highlights in two days, but on your last day, factor in travel time back to Tokyo and the airport for your departure.
1. Wander Through the Enchanting Gion District
One of the best ways to experience Kyoto is simply to wander through the atmospheric Gion district. For a central landmark to start your Gion exploration, head to the iconic Yasaka Pagoda. This beautiful pagoda is a popular spot for photographers, especially at sunset. As you explore the surrounding streets, you’ll discover charming street food stalls offering traditional desserts, locals and visitors dressed in elegant kimonos, and quaint souvenir shops.
2. Participate in a Traditional Matcha Tea Ceremony
Participating in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony was a highlight of my Japan itinerary! It’s a fascinating cultural immersion, regardless of whether you’re a tea aficionado. I attended a ceremony at Camellia Flower Teahouse. The 45-minute ceremony costs around $25 USD per person and is conveniently located in the heart of Gion. The knowledgeable instructor provides a brief overview of the history and significance of tea ceremonies (traditional ceremonies can last up to 4 hours!). You’ll witness a demonstration of the intricate ceremony steps, and then have the opportunity to try some steps yourself, prepare matcha tea, and enjoy it together.
3. Fushimi Inari Shrine: Thousands of Red Torii Gates
Visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine is an iconic Kyoto experience. Located about a 20-minute taxi ride from Gion, Fushimi Inari is famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up a mountainside path. This is an incredibly popular spot, so to avoid large crowds, aim to arrive before 9 am.
Spend time meandering through the mesmerizing red torii tunnels, exploring the trails, and hiking up the hill for rewarding views.
4. The Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji): Glistening Temple
Kyoto boasts numerous stunning temples and shrines within walking distance of Gion (more on those shortly!). While the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) is a 30-minute taxi ride away, it’s absolutely worth the journey. This breathtaking Zen Buddhist temple is situated in a serene park setting, reflected in a tranquil pond. The top two floors of the pavilion are entirely covered in shimmering gold leaf, creating a truly dazzling sight. Take your time to wander the park trails, appreciate the natural beauty, and admire the temple from various angles.
5. Yasaka Shrine: Vibrant Gion Shrine
Yasaka Shrine is conveniently located in the Gion district, just a short walk away. Situated at the edge of a bustling street with modern buildings, the juxtaposition of this ancient red shrine against the backdrop of contemporary architecture is strikingly interesting.
6. Ryozen Kannon: Imposing Buddhist Statue
Located near Kodai-ji Temple (also in Gion and easily walkable), the Ryozen Kannon Buddhist statue is an impressive sight. For a small entrance fee (around $2 USD), you can get up close to this colossal statue. The sheer scale of the Ryozen Kannon is awe-inspiring and worth experiencing firsthand.
7. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Serene Bamboo Forest
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is another must-see Kyoto attraction. Wandering through this towering bamboo forest offers a peaceful and meditative experience. Allow about an hour to stroll through the grove. It’s located a bit further out, approximately a 40-minute taxi ride from Gion.
8. Nishiki Market: Kyoto’s Kitchen
Feeling hungry? Head to Nishiki Market, a vibrant food market about a 20-minute walk from Gion. This bustling market is packed with food stalls offering a huge variety of local delicacies, street food, pickles, seafood, sweets, and more. You’re sure to find something to satisfy any craving!
9. Samurai Museum: History and Ninja Stars
The Samurai Museum is located just a short distance from Nishiki Market. While I don’t typically prioritize museums on my travels, I thoroughly enjoyed the Samurai Museum in Kyoto! For around $25 USD per person, a guided tour takes you through the fascinating history of Samurai and Ninjas. The tour culminates in a fun ninja star throwing contest!
10. Indulge in Kyoto’s Culinary Scene
Kyoto is a culinary delight! Here are two highly recommended restaurants I enjoyed:
- Gion Kappa – A casual, lively, and local spot serving a diverse menu of delicious dishes (the sushi and skewers are excellent!). Everything on the menu is priced at 390 yen, making it incredibly affordable.
- Gyoza Hohei – Simply the best gyoza I’ve ever tasted! Arrive early as this tiny restaurant has limited seating (only two tables and bar seating), and there’s often a wait, but it’s absolutely worth it.
11. Day Trip to Nara (Optional)
If you have extra time in Kyoto, consider a side trip to Nara. Nara is easily accessible from Kyoto (about 45 minutes by JR Nara Line express train). Like Kyoto, Nara is home to numerous temples and shrines. However, Nara’s main attraction is Nara Park, home to hundreds of friendly wild deer roaming freely. You can purchase deer crackers to feed them, and they’ll even bow to you to request a treat!
End of Your 7-Day Japan Itinerary
After your time in Kyoto concludes, you’ll have experienced an incredible 7 days in Japan! To return to Tokyo/HND airport from Kyoto, simply take the Shinkansen bullet train directly to Shinjuku Station, then transfer to the Tokyo Monorail to HND airport (all covered by your JR Pass).
Bonus Itinerary: Niseko in Winter – Powder Snow Paradise
While this is primarily a 7-day Japan itinerary, if you’re visiting Japan in winter and have more than 7 days, keep reading for a bonus section on Niseko!
Japan Itinerary Part 4: Niseko – World-Class Winter Sports
If you’re visiting Japan during winter and enjoy skiing or snowboarding, Niseko, located in Hokkaido (northern Japan), is an absolute must-visit destination. Niseko is globally renowned for having some of the best powder snow in the world!
Plan to spend at least 3-4 days in Niseko if you’re dedicated to skiing and snowboarding.
Getting to Niseko: Flight and Transfer
The easiest way to reach Niseko is to take a quick 1-hour flight from Tokyo to New Chitose Airport (CTS) near Sapporo. Several budget-friendly domestic airlines operate this route (and often include free baggage allowance for skis and snowboards!). Pre-arrange a private transfer for your arrival at CTS. The drive from CTS airport to Niseko/Hirafu area is approximately 2 hours.
Alternatively, you can rent a car at CTS airport for self-drive to Niseko. Having a car in Niseko can be convenient for exploring different parts of the resort area and accessing onsen locations. I recommend using DiscoverCars for car rentals, offering a wide selection of vehicles.
Best Place to Stay in Niseko: Hirafu Village
For your first Niseko trip, Hirafu Village is the most popular and convenient base. Hirafu offers easy walkability to bars, restaurants, and ski lifts/gondolas.
Cecuko Apartments – This is where we stayed, and it was fantastic! Cecuko Apartments are centrally located in Hirafu Village, within easy walking distance of restaurants, nightlife, and ski lifts.
source: booking.com
Skiing and Snowboarding in Niseko: Powder Heaven
If you’re visiting Niseko in winter, hitting the slopes is the main attraction! Niseko is the largest ski resort in Japan, encompassing four interconnected resorts: Annupuri, Niseko Village, Grand Hirafu, and Hanazono. Niseko is part of the Ikon Pass, offering lift access if you have one. Otherwise, lift tickets in Niseko are significantly more affordable than at major US ski resorts (around $60 USD per day).
Grand Hirafu is directly accessible from Hirafu Village (where I recommend staying). The best time for Niseko’s legendary powder snow is late December to mid-February. The snow is incredibly light, fluffy, and deep – a truly unparalleled experience.
Mountain lodges in Niseko offer excellent on-mountain dining options with delicious food (ramen, gyoza, tempura, and more!) and drinks at reasonable prices – a welcome surprise compared to often overpriced and mediocre lodge food at US resorts.
Private Cat Skiing: Backcountry Powder Adventure
If your budget allows, I highly recommend indulging in a private cat skiing day in Niseko. Several companies offer cat skiing tours. We booked through Iwanai, and it was an unforgettable experience!
They provide transportation from your Hirafu accommodation to their private, abandoned ski resort overlooking the Sea of Japan (about an hour’s drive). The snowcat itself is unique, resembling a greenhouse on tracks with panoramic windows. The snow quality was absolutely phenomenal – the best powder snowboarding I’ve ever experienced, feeling like surfing on clouds.
The private snowcat tour includes around 9 epic runs, with exclusive access to the entire mountain for your group of about 10 people. Enjoy lunch and après-ski happy hour at their lodge, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t forget!
Niseko Dining: Western Influences and Cozy Izakayas
Niseko’s dining scene, unlike other parts of Japan, leans towards a more “westernized” style. The area has a noticeable Australian influence, and English is widely spoken. Reservations are highly recommended for popular dinner restaurants in Hirafu Village during peak season. Here are a few recommended dining spots:
Izakaya Koharuya
- Izakaya Koharuya – Small, cozy Izakaya (Japanese pub) with excellent chicken skewers and other Japanese comfort food.
- Niseko Sanroku Jingisukan – Japanese BBQ restaurant where you cook your own meats at your table. Located in the heart of Hirafu Village. Don’t miss the Niseko cheese tart food truck next door for dessert!
- Rakuichi – Legendary soba noodle restaurant with only 12 seats and reservations essential (often booked months in advance!). Featured on Anthony Bourdain’s show. Book well ahead to experience this culinary gem.
Niseko Nightlife: Après-Ski Bars
Hirafu Village in Niseko offers a lively après-ski bar scene. Here are a couple of my favorite bars:
Bar Gyu: Hidden Speakeasy Charm
Bar Gyu is a famous “speakeasy” in Hirafu, accessed through a door disguised as a freezer. Inside, discover a cozy cocktail bar with a relaxed atmosphere and an upstairs area offering beautiful views. They have a charming hand-drawn menu and serve superb cocktails. A must-visit for après-ski drinks!
The Baddie’s: Fun and Casual Vibe
The Baddie’s is a more casual bar with a fun, social atmosphere. The bartenders are friendly, and on weekends, they sometimes have DJs, creating a lively vibe even in this relatively small bar.
Other Niseko Activities: Relaxing Onsens
If you have extra time in Niseko or want a day off from skiing/snowboarding, explore the numerous public onsen (natural hot springs) in the area. Transportation to onsens can be a bit challenging as Ubers are not available in Niseko, and taxis can be scarce. This was why I didn’t make it to an onsen during my Niseko trip, but it’s definitely on my list for next time!
Check out this Niseko onsen guide to choose an onsen that suits your preferences.
Skis/Snowboard: Bring Your Own or Rent?
Both bringing your own ski/snowboard gear or renting in Niseko are viable options. Half of our group brought their gear, and half rented. I chose to bring my snowboard because I prefer my own equipment, my board performs well in powder, and checking oversized snowboard bags was free on our flights.
We visited Niseko at the beginning of our Japan trip. Upon returning to Tokyo to explore Hakone, Kyoto, and Tokyo, we stored our snowboard gear in airport lockers at HND airport, avoiding the hassle of carrying it around during the city portion of our trip.
My friends who rented gear in Niseko had a positive experience with Rhythm Niseko.
Unique and Helpful Things to Know About Japan:
- Spotlessly Clean: Japan is the cleanest country I’ve ever visited! You’ll be amazed by the lack of litter on streets and the immaculate condition of public restrooms.
- Limited Public Trash Cans: You won’t find many public trash cans on the streets. This is partly due to Japanese cultural norms where eating and drinking while walking in public is uncommon, minimizing public trash.
- High-Tech Toilets: Prepare for luxurious toilet experiences! Every toilet seems to have a bidet and heated seat – pure comfort and hygiene.
- US-Compatible Outlets: Japan uses the same electrical outlets as the US (Type A), so you won’t need a power adapter for your electronics.
- Quiet Train Etiquette: It’s considered polite to refrain from talking loudly or making noise on metro trains.
- Lawson’s Egg Sandwich: You must try the “egg sandwich” from Lawson convenience stores (similar to 7-Eleven). It’s a pre-packaged egg salad sandwich that is surprisingly delicious! Even Anthony Bourdain raved about it in his Japan writings. I probably ate at least five during my Japan trip!
I hope this detailed 7-day Japan travel itinerary is helpful in planning your own adventure! Japan is truly an incredible country with so much to offer. Enjoy your trip!
