7 days: Tokyo and Kyoto

For a 7-day trip starting and ending in Tokyo, the most popular and efficient itinerary is the "Golden Route." This plan prioritizes the "Big Three" (Tokyo, Kyoto, and a day trip to Nara/Osaka) while ensuring you return to Tokyo in time for your flight. To maximize your time in the historic sites and ensure a safe departure, the best split is 2 Nights Tokyo ➔ 3 Nights Kyoto ➔ 1 Night Tokyo.