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Introducing Japan

An ancient way of life fuses with modern society in this bustling and iconic travel destination. Travelers fall in love (or renew their vows) with Japanese food and astonishing scenery of this mountainous archipelago dotted with modern cities.

When is the best time to visit?
Late spring and early autumn have traditionally been considered the best times to visit Japan, but more and more travelers are seeking trips to this mountainous county in the winter to take advantage of its snowy season. Skiers and snowboarders are flocking to Japan in December through March in search of the powdery, light snow the region is increasingly known for. Learn more

Where to go in Japan?
The possibilities are endless. Night owls will love the 24-hour food and drinking scene of bustling city centers like Tokyo and Osaka, older cities that are embracing the new with plenty of flair and energy. Rural travelers will enjoy the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shiretoko National Park in the mountains of Hokkaidō and the balmy subtropical islands of Okinawa. Learn more

How many days do I need?
Since there is so much to do in Japan and travel within the country via the high-speed bullet trains is so easy, visitors can opt for trips of any duration. To do any justice to this amazing country, spend at least a week and ideally up to three. Learn more

Getting Around Japan
Most visitors to Japan fly into one of Tokyo's two airports, Narita International Airport or Haneda Airport (Tokyo International). Trains connect both airports to downtown Tokyo, and from there, extensive and efficient rail networks carry passengers to destinations on Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku, and Kyushu. Learn more

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

Japan Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Sunrise in the post town of Narai, Japan
Map of Hike Japan's Nakasendo Trail - 5 Days
Hike Japan's Nakasendo Trail - 5 Days

Step back in time and immerse yourself in nature on this five-day hiking trip along the historic Nakasendo Trail. Feudal lords and samurai once walked this mountain path connecting Kyoto and Tokyo, stopping to rest in historic jukus, or Edo-era post towns, each night. You'll follow in their footsteps as you trek through picturesque valleys, explore idyllic villages, sleep in traditional inns, and relax in the thermal waters of hot springs along the hike.

The Kiyomizu-dera Temple overlooking Kyoto's skyline
Map of Japan's Big Four: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & Hiroshima - 10 Days
Japan's Big Four: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & Hiroshima - 10 Days

This diverse 10-day itinerary leads you through Japan's four major cities. Start in Tokyo, exploring the city's ultra-modern technology and ancient monuments. Then head to the quiet shrines of traditional Kyoto, the buzzing food scene of trendy Osaka, and the historic landmarks and lively downtown of Hiroshima. Along the way, you'll visit beautiful islands and bamboo forests, sample regional delicacies on a food tour, see sumo wrestlers in action, and try locally produced sake and whiskey.

Tokyo's Shinjuku Park
Map of Classic Highlights of Japan - 14 Days
Classic Highlights of Japan - 14 Days

Welcome to Japan! On this two-week journey around the main island, Honshu, you'll enjoy a mix of cultural sightseeing and active adventures. Visit sacred temples and shrines, cycle through the countryside, and wander around Tokyo's most fashionable neighborhoods. From the history of Hiroshima and the wonders of ancient Kyoto to the historic farmhouses of Shirakawa-go and the quiet island of Miyajima, there's so much to see and do.

Boating in Arashiyama
Map of Natural Wonders of Japan - 10 Days
Natural Wonders of Japan - 10 Days

Just as fascinating as Japan's ultra-modern urban culture is its spectacular natural scenery. On this 10-day adventure, you'll venture beyond the glittering cities to explore Japan's stunning natural wonders and learn about the country's ancient cultural traditions. Visit ancient shrines, climb mountain peaks, wander through lush bamboo forests, learn about geisha culture and fine arts customs, and marvel at the country's most prized landscape garden. You'll end the journey in quiet Kyoto, enjoying a boat cruise on the Hozugawa River past vibrant cherry blossoms.

Explore historic Edo-era post towns along the Nakasendo Trail
Map of Highlights & Hiking in Japan: Kyoto, Tokyo & the Nakasendo Trail - 10 Days
Highlights & Hiking in Japan: Kyoto, Tokyo & the Nakasendo Trail - 10 Days

This active tour of Japan combines modern cities with outdoor adventures, including five days of hiking along the famous Nakasendo Trail. You'll start in Kyoto, visiting the famed red torii gates of Fushimi Inari and watching a live geisha performance. Then, set out on foot along one of the major traveling routes of the Edo period—traversing bamboo forests in Nojiri, the peaks of Torii Pass, and the plateaus of Usui-toge. End in Tokyo for city views from the Tokyo Skytree and a tranquil visit to Asakusa Shrine.

Kyoto's Higashiyama historic district
Map of Best of Tokyo & Kyoto - 7 Days
Best of Tokyo & Kyoto - 7 Days

This weeklong adventure splits its time between two of Japan's most important cities with a mix of customizable tours and free time to explore on your own. Start off in Tokyo for a taste of modern Japan with top-notch architecture, animé, modern art, high fashion, and cuisine. Then head to traditional Kyoto for beautiful temples and shrines, ancient gardens, and cultural experiences like tea ceremonies and calligraphy.

Make the Most of Your Time in Japan

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Discover Japan's Golden Pavillion or Kinkaku-ji temple in Kyoto
How Many Days to Spend in Japan

Japan is made up of hundreds of islands that extend for nearly 2,000 miles (3,210 km). How many days should you spend exploring, and where should you focus your time? From an...

Blossoming sakura (cherry) trees and iconic Mount Fuji
Map of 1 Week in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Japan's efficient trains make it possible to see three regions in one week. First-time visitors will enjoy highlights that include futuristic museums in Odaiba, the temples and...

Take to Tokyo's iconic streets and walk Shibuya's busiest pedestrian crossing
Map of 10 Days in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Thanks to Japan's efficient transportation, you can visit at least four regions in 10 days. First-timers will enjoy touring iconic sites in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima....

Wander the streets of Kyoto on a classic two week trip covering the highlights
Map of 2 Weeks in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In a two-week Japan trip, divide your days among Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Okinawa for a highlights tour, or indulge in culinary delights with street food, tea ceremonies, and...

Japan Travel Essentials

All you need to know to get started planning the perfect trip
Taiyu-in Temple in Nikko, just north of Tokyo, is beautiful during the fall season
Best Time of Year to Visit Japan

The best times to visit Japan are spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms and fall (September to November) for vibrant fall foliage, both offering pleasant weather and...

Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto
Essential Japan: Top 10 Things to Do & See

Crescent-shaped islands surrounded by deep blue sea, Japan has everything from Buddhist temples to great beaches. Home to both a robot restaurant and an ancient rainforest, it's...

Iriomote Island, Okinawa (© Yuri Awanohara)
Guide to Japan's Main Regions

Japan is roughly the size of California, with thousands of islands offering a huge variety of things to see and do. You can experience some of the world's best powder skiing in...

Japan Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

Japan Destination Guides

Detailed travel guides for the main regions of the country
Iriomote Island, Okinawa (© Yuri Awanohara)
Guide to Japan's Main Regions

Japan is roughly the size of California, with thousands of islands offering a huge variety of things to see and do. You can experience some of the world's best powder skiing in...

Coral reefs of Okinawa
Ultimate Guide to Okinawa

Okinawa's attractions have something for everyone. They cater to cocktail-sipping beach bums, history buffs, and active adventurers alike. The island is fairly small, so even a...

Japan Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Photo courtesy of The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Osaka Midosuji, Osaka
Osaka
The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Osaka Midosuji
5.0
(6)
· Luxury
The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Osaka Midosuji is a luxurious property in the bustling Chuo Ward district, placing you right among the city's most intriguing attractions and a 20-minute walk from the city center. You'll also be just a 3-minute stroll from the tranquil Hongan-ji Temple Tsumura Betsuin...
Photo courtesy of The Gate Hotel Kyoto Takasegawa by Hulic
Kyoto
The Gate Hotel Kyoto Takasegawa by Hulic
5.0
(5)
· Upscale
The Gate Hotel Kyoto Takasegawa by Hulic, located alongside the Takase River in Kyoto, stands on a site rich in historical significance, as it was once home to Kyoto clan residences during the Edo period and is the location of Japan's first successful movie preview experiment. The hotel coexists...
Photo courtesy of Onyado Nono Kanazawa Natural Hot Spring
Kanazawa
Onyado Nono Kanazawa Natural Hot Spring
4.8
(6)
· Mid-Range
Onyado Nono Kanazawa Natural Hot Spring is a hotel that offers a taste of traditional Japanese culture, as it's designed as a modernized hatago—a nod to the classic Japanese inns of the past. As you step in from the busy street, you'll appreciate the calming tatami mats covering most hotel...

Best Experiences in Japan

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Kyoto
Kyoto Cooking Class
5.0
(6)
3 hours
·
Small group
Experience traditional Japanese cooking firsthand with our cooking classes in Kyoto. Begin your day with our Morning Bento Class from 9:30-12:30, where you'll learn how to prepare several Japanese dishes, including sushi, tempura, and miso soup. In the afternoon, join our Izakaya Class from...
(photo courtesy of Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya)
Kyoto
Samurai Ninja Museum & Tea Ceremony Experience
5.0
(1)
4 hours
·
Small group
Step back in time to Edo-era Kyoto with this half-day, hands-on experience that's ideal for families and groups. Start at the Samurai Ninja Museum, where your guide will lead you through fascinating exhibits dedicated to these iconic medieval warriors. You'll have the chance to don your own...
Okinawa
Mangrove Kayaking Experience
2 hours
·
Small group
Discover the natural beauty of Okinawa's subtropical Hija River on a relaxing paddle among its mangroves. After a brief introduction and a little practice, you'll set off in an open kayak with your guide to explore a landscape where the calm river and mangrove forest blend into one tranquil...

Our Latest Japan Content

Join the 19th running of the Tokyo Marathon
Map of Race Abroad in Japan: Run the 2026 Tokyo Marathon - 12 Days
Race Abroad in Japan: Run the 2026 Tokyo Marathon - 12 Days

Turn your run in the 2026 Tokyo Marathon into an adventure across Japan with this 12-day itinerary built around recovery and exploration. Ease into the trip with time to prepare and get to know Tokyo, then celebrate your race day accomplishment with immersive food and cultural experiences in the capital. Ride the bullet train to Kyoto for temples, tea, and bamboo forests, then wrap up in Osaka with street food, neon nights, and a day trip to historic Nara.

See the lights and sights of South Korea and Japan on this two-week trip
Map of Best of Japan & South Korea: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Seoul & Jeju Island - 14 Days
Best of Japan & South Korea: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Seoul & Jeju Island - 14 Days

Spend two glorious weeks exploring the iconic sights of Japan and South Korea, starting with the bright lights of Tokyo. Boat across a picturesque lake in the shadow of Mount Fuji, then transfer to Kyoto for tea, samurai, temples, and markets. Spend a day meeting the friendly deer in Nara before tasting the delights of Osaka. Fly to South Korea to explore the capital, Seoul, and the nearby DMZ. Then, end your trip on the scenic island of Jeju for beaches, tea plantations, sea caves, tangerines, and waterfalls.

Visit hot springs and hidden gems in Japan and South Korea during this two-week tour
Map of Off the Beaten Path in Japan & South Korea with Hot Springs - 14 Days
Off the Beaten Path in Japan & South Korea with Hot Springs - 14 Days

Discover hidden gems, historical sights, and hot springs during this 14-day adventure in Japan and South Korea. Try Fukuoka's famous pork ramen, boat on Yanagawa's canals, see Nagasaki's Peace Park, and explore the picturesque Takachiho Gorge. Spend several days in the hot springs town of Beppu, then fly to South Korea to explore palaces and murals in Seoul. Learn to make traditional Korean pottery, get a medicinal foot bath in Daegu, and end your trip in a traditional Korean bathhouse.

Japan Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map Guide to Japan's Main Regions
Guide to Japan's Main Regions
View article
Map 10 Days in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 2 Weeks in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Japan
Travel specialist Shona Zhang
active 6 mins ago

Shona Zhang

With strong passion for traveling,I worked as an English-speaking guide for 10 years with travel agent.I love to travel and communicate with different tourists from all corners of the...

read more...
Travel specialist Angel Tang
active 5 hours ago

Angel Tang

I love exploring and have been traveling in Asian countries for more than fifteen years. As a Japan specialist, I have a deep affection for this country and I will use my knowledge and expertise to...

read more...
Travel specialist Sandy Ren
active 9 hours ago

Sandy Ren

I have been working as a travel specialist since graduating from college twenty years ago. Travel is my lifelong passion. It was such a thrilling thing to venture into a new world full of unknown...

read more...
Travel specialist Leny Vergara
active 9 hours ago

Leny Vergara

Hello! I'm Leny. Travel is my passion, and if you're anything like me, you believe the best adventures happen off the beaten path. Japan is the first country I lived in, and I fell in love with it....

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Japan

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Amazing Japan Trip
Japan | Sep 8 - Sep 24, 2026

Patrick
Patrick C.
Jollyville, TX | Reviewed on Sep 28, 2026
Looking back on our recent trip to Japan, one of the things we’re most grateful for is having Ben help us plan it. He took the time to understand what we wanted from the trip, and from the start, we felt like we were in very good hands. Ben was incredibly responsive throughout the planning process and paid attention to all the little details that made such a difference. Our itinerary gave us a great balance of memorable experiences and time to explore on our own. During our trip, Ben... Read more

Looking back on our recent trip to Japan, one of the things we’re most grateful for is having Ben help us plan it. He took the time to understand what we wanted from the trip, and from the start, we felt like we were in very good hands.

Ben was incredibly responsive throughout the planning process and paid attention to all the little details that made such a difference. Our itinerary gave us a great balance of memorable experiences and time to explore on our own. During our trip, Ben checked in every day to see how we were doing and provide assistance as needed

One of our favorite memories was the Yamazaki Distillery tour. It was such a unique experience and a real highlight of the trip, exactly the kind of personal touch that made our time in Japan so memorable.

The guides Ben arranged were another highlight. They were knowledgeable, personable, and added so much to our experience at each destination.

We came home with so many wonderful memories and truly appreciate all the care Ben put into making our Japan trip so special. We would absolutely recommend him to anyone planning a trip to Japan.

Local specialist: Ben Tanaka
Ben
Ben Tanaka
Local specialist in Japan, China | Replied on Sep 29, 2026
Dear Patrick and Lucy, Your review genuinely made my day — thank you so much. Knowing that you felt cared for from our very first message, and that all those little details helped make your journey special, means more to me than you know. I’m especially happy that the Yamazaki Distillery tour became one of those memories you’ll carry home with you — that’s exactly the kind of experience I hope to create for every traveler I work with. It also means so much to hear how much you enjoyed... Read more

Dear Patrick and Lucy,

Your review genuinely made my day — thank you so much. Knowing that you felt cared for from our very first message, and that all those little details helped make your journey special, means more to me than you know.

I’m especially happy that the Yamazaki Distillery tour became one of those memories you’ll carry home with you — that’s exactly the kind of experience I hope to create for every traveler I work with.

It also means so much to hear how much you enjoyed spending time with your guides along the way. They are wonderful people, and I’ve already shared your kind words and review with our entire team. Everyone was truly delighted to hear how much you enjoyed your time in Japan, and I know your words will mean a great deal to the guides who were part of your journey as well.

It was a real pleasure to be part of your adventure, and it makes me smile knowing that you’re back home with so many wonderful memories from Japan.

Whenever Japan calls you again — or if a friend ever mentions they’re thinking about a trip to Japan — I’ll be here and would be delighted to help. It would be wonderful to plan another journey for you someday.

Thank you again, Patrick and Lucy. It was truly a pleasure taking care of you both.

With warmest regards,
Ben

Responsive, thoughtful support from start to finish
Japan | Sep 21 - Sep 27, 2026

Mackenzie
Mackenzie H.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Sep 28, 2026
I worked directly with Rob as the travel advisor coordinating this Japan honeymoon, and he was wonderful to partner with throughout the planning process. The itinerary went through several revisions as we worked to get the pacing, hotels, transportation and experiences right, and Rob was consistently responsive, flexible and helpful. I especially appreciated being able to rely on his local expertise and relationships with in-country partners when questions or logistical details came up. As... Read more

I worked directly with Rob as the travel advisor coordinating this Japan honeymoon, and he was wonderful to partner with throughout the planning process. The itinerary went through several revisions as we worked to get the pacing, hotels, transportation and experiences right, and Rob was consistently responsive, flexible and helpful. I especially appreciated being able to rely on his local expertise and relationships with in-country partners when questions or logistical details came up. As the trip approached, he was excellent about providing updated driver information, reservation confirmations, transportation guidance and day-of details so I could make sure the travelers had everything they needed. He also responded quickly whenever I needed clarification or wanted to double-check something. From the advisor side, I felt well supported throughout the process and appreciated having a knowledgeable local partner I could rely on.

Local specialist: Rob P
Rob
Rob P
Local specialist in New Zealand | Replied on Sep 28, 2026

Thank you so much for your kind words! It was a real pleasure working with you on this special Japan honeymoon. I truly appreciated the collaboration and trust throughout the planning process, and I hope we’ll have the chance to work together again soon!

Outstanding!
Japan | Sep 17 - Sep 24, 2026

T
Thomas K.
Omaha, NE | Reviewed on Sep 28, 2026
My trip was amazing! I was fully taken care of through out the whole process and stay thanks to Soleil & kimkim! Would definitely recommend to anyone considering traveling to Japan! Read more

My trip was amazing! I was fully taken care of through out the whole process and stay thanks to Soleil & kimkim! Would definitely recommend to anyone considering traveling to Japan!

Hotel Review
Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro
Tokyo
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Soleil Ponce-Higa
Soleil
Soleil Ponce-Higa
Local specialist in Kofu, Yamanashi, Japan | Replied on Sep 28, 2026

Thank you so much, Thomas! It was truly a pleasure helping you plan your journey through Japan. I’m so happy to hear that you had an amazing trip and felt well taken care of throughout your stay. Thank you for trusting me and kimkim, and for your kind recommendation. I hope you brought home many wonderful memories, and I would be delighted to welcome you back to Japan someday! ^_^

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.