10-day Christmas and New Year Japan Trip: Complete Travel Itinerary

Japan during the holidays is insane. Imagine strolling through Tokyo's Marunouchi district, surrounded by 286 trees lit with 820,000 champagne gold LEDs. Or walking through Asakusa’s Nakamise Street on New Year’s Eve, where worshippers flood the streets for their first shrine visit of the year. From dazzling city lights to peaceful temples, this itinerary packs it all into ten unforgettable days!

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Start your trip on Christmas Eve in Ginza, Tokyo’s bougie shopping and nightlife hotspot. The streets are glowing with twinkling lights and crazy festive vibes. You have to stroll through the Marunouchi Illumination, with millions of LED lights everywhere, basically a real-life holiday fairy tale. Stop by the Tokyo Christmas Market at Marunouchi for mulled wine, snacks, and cute gifts. Honestly, ending your first night here is insane and the perfect way to kick off your Japan holiday.

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Next, head to Asakusa, home to the historic Senso-ji Temple. Walking through Nakamise Street, you’ll find traditional snacks and souvenirs at every turn. During the New Year period, this area comes alive with visitors participating in Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year. Grab a fortune slip, soak in the festive energy, and watch centuries-old rituals unfold around you.

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Start your day with panoramic views from Tokyo Tower. If you don’t know, sunset photos here are insane! Then explore Shimokitazawa, a trendy neighbourhoodneighborhood full of vintage shops, indie cafés, and live music. This is Tokyo’s artsy, youthful side, and you must spend time wandering its alleys, popping into quirky shops, and sipping coffee in hidden corners.

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You have to see Mount Fuji up close. Head to the Fifth Station for jaw-dropping views, and depending on the season, catch the peak dusted in snow or framed by cherry blossoms. Hike a short trail, snap photos, and don’t miss the nearby onsen for a warm soak after a chilly day. Pure bliss.

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Start the year at Meiji Shrine, one of Tokyo’s most important Shinto shrines. On New Year’s Day, join the crowd for Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year. Draw a fortune slip, listen to temple bells, and feel the energy of thousands celebrating together. This is a must for experiencing Japan’s cultural traditions firsthand.

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Kyoto is next. Walk through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene path lined with towering stalks swaying in the winter breeze. Nearby, explore Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning gardens. Both spots are perfect for reflection, photography, and a peaceful contrast to Tokyo’s urban energy.

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Experience traditional Japanese culture by renting a kimono and strolling through Kyoto's historic streets. Visit Kiyomizu-dera, a famous temple with a large wooden stage that offers stunning views of the city and is especially picturesque during the cherry blossom season.

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Spend the day café hopping in Kyoto. Try chilling out inon one of the cozy traditional tea houses and cafes. Have some matcha desserts, seasonal pastries, and take cute photos as there are aesthetic vibes everywhere. In the evening, treat yourself to sukiyaki, a hot pot with thinly sliced beef, tofu, and veggies cooked in sweet-savourysweet-savory broth. This is comfort food at its finest and perfect for a chilly winter night.

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Arrive in Osaka and explore Dotonbori, a neon-lit district famous for street food, nightlife, and entertainment. You must try takoyaki and kushikatsu while soaking in the buzzing energy! Then head to Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka’s famous “kitchen,” for fresh seafood, local fruits, and other delicacies. This is literally a foodie heaven.

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Wrap up your trip at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka. Seasonal parades, themed attractions, and festive decorations make this a fun, festive finale. You have to experience the rides, shows, and parades. It’s the perfect way to end a 10-day Japan adventure on a high note.

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And that’s a wrap on your 10-day Japan Christmas and New Year holiday trip! From strolling under millions of LED lights in Tokyo to sipping matcha in cozy Kyoto cafés, snapping photos in bamboo groves, and chowing down on Osaka street food, this trip hits all the right spots. You’ll laugh, eat way too much, see insane views, and probably take a million photos along the way. Japan during the holidays is crazy magical, and following this itinerary means you’ll get the perfect mix of festive vibes, cultural moments, and straight-up fun. Honestly, you’re gonna leave with your heart full, your camera full, and memories that are 100% unforgettable.

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