Personalized trips to Japan
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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 Mitsui Garden Hotel Kanazawa
Kanazawa
Mitsui Garden Hotel Kanazawa
4.8
(8)
· Upscale
Mitsui Garden Hotel Kanazawa is a modern property on a busy street sandwiched between two other buildings. Inside, you'll find beautiful shared spaces featuring high ceilings, dark wood, black interiors, and lighting that creates a chic ambience. Throughout the hotel, you can admire the art...

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 1 hour 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 1 hour 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 28 mins 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

We asked Greg to plan us a trip of a lifetime...
Japan | Oct 17 - Nov 2, 2026

Molly
Molly M.
Miami, FL | Reviewed on Nov 09, 2026
We asked Greg to plan us a trip of a lifetime a boy, did he, and Cory, deliver. The itinerary was the perfect combination of site seeing, activities with locals, and relaxation. The pacing of each day was perfect and all the suggestions given for food and other things were phenomenal. Greg connected us with tour guides who made us feel like they wanted to spend the day with us and who we were genuinely sad to leave (shout out Karolina and Pam) and hotels that ticked every box. They gave... Read more

We asked Greg to plan us a trip of a lifetime a boy, did he, and Cory, deliver. The itinerary was the perfect combination of site seeing, activities with locals, and relaxation. The pacing of each day was perfect and all the suggestions given for food and other things were phenomenal. Greg connected us with tour guides who made us feel like they wanted to spend the day with us and who we were genuinely sad to leave (shout out Karolina and Pam) and hotels that ticked every box. They gave specific instructions on transportation and we had zero problems navigating between cities. Overall, I would (and have) highly recommend this experience as well as KimKim and the Greg/Cory team. It was indeed the trip of a lifetime

Hotel Reviews
Hotel the Celestine Tokyo Shiba
Tokyo

Comfortable first place to get started but a bit removed

Authenticity & Character
Location
Just felt very far from everything. However close to the subways
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Kanazawa Zoushi
Kanazawa
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Marufukuro
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu
Hakone
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo
Tokyo
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Izakaya food tour in Shinjuku (14 small tastings)
Izakaya food tour in Shinjuku (14 small tastings)
Tokyo
Quality of Experience
Food
The first spot was great, but I didn’t find myself feeling like anything else that we did was particularly something I needed a food tour for
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The tour guide was a lot of energy but not really in an endearing way
Transport
Lots of walking on already, tired feet
Fun ramen cooking class with gyoza
Fun ramen cooking class with gyoza
Tokyo

This was an amazing experience that set the tone for our trip. Really was super fun and the guides were phenomenal.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Greg gave us a picture of the building so we knew what we were looking for which was really helpful.
Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony with Kimono Wearing (Higashiyama)
Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony with Kimono Wearing (Higashiyama)
Japan

Such a wonderful experience, and they let you keep the kimonos on until 6 o’clock. I wish I’d known that ahead of time because I definitely would’ve planned our day a little bit differently.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Discover the Art of Japanese Forging at a Historic Kyoto Smithy
Discover the Art of Japanese Forging at a Historic Kyoto Smithy
Kyoto

This was such a fun experience! Plus, taking home your own knife that you foraged in Japan is pretty cool

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Greg and Cory gave very clear instructions on how to get to this place and it was super helpful
Discover the secret gems of Kanazawa - Omicho Market & Samurai District - Private Walking Tour
Discover the secret gems of Kanazawa - Omicho Market & Samurai District - Private Walking Tour
Kanazawa
Quality of Experience
It was a private tour with just the two of us and our guide and it made for really personalized experience which was great
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Karolina was really a wonderful guide.
Transport
Private Kyoto Temples & Gion Tour
Private Kyoto Temples & Gion Tour
Japan

I cannot say enough wonderful things about Pam! Plus, this is our first adventure into Kyoto and she made sure we saw everything even things we didn’t know we needed to see

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Pam is such a delight
Transport
Go-Kart Tour - Akihabara
Go-Kart Tour - Akihabara
Tokyo

This was super fun and a lot less anxiety producing than I thought it was gonna be. Only feedback here is I would’ve liked to have known a little bit more about what we were driving by

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Maki-e Experience: Lacquered Chopsticks or Japanese Bowls
Private Maki-e Experience: Lacquered Chopsticks or Japanese Bowls
Kanazawa

This was really cool and our host and the artist were really sweet. We had a great time talking to them and creating art.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kintsugi Experience at Shikata Urushi, A Centuries-Old Japanese-Urushi Shop in Kyoto
Kintsugi Experience at Shikata Urushi, A Centuries-Old Japanese-Urushi Shop in Kyoto
Kyoto

Highly recommend this experience. We really had a wonderful time.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Greg Varga

Judy helped us plan a 14 day Japan holiday fo...
Japan | Oct 18 - Oct 31, 2026

Wing Yee
Wing Yee C.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on Nov 07, 2026
Judy helped us plan a 14 day Japan holiday for a family of 7 with ages 11 , 16, 26, 47, 50 , 57 yr old
It was a 4 centre holiday Tokyo , Hakone , Kyoto and Osaka
We booked our own hotels separately but Judy arranged transfers and guides and booked some events for us - e.g. Samurai stable , Gyoza cooking lesson , Shibuya Skytree, Samurai museum - that we had to make our own way to via public transport or walking but with the Suica card that was manageable . All the things she booked for...
Read more

Judy helped us plan a 14 day Japan holiday for a family of 7 with ages 11 , 16, 26, 47, 50 , 57 yr old
It was a 4 centre holiday Tokyo , Hakone , Kyoto and Osaka
We booked our own hotels separately but Judy arranged transfers and guides and booked some events for us - e.g. Samurai stable , Gyoza cooking lesson , Shibuya Skytree, Samurai museum - that we had to make our own way to via public transport or walking but with the Suica card that was manageable . All the things she booked for us were excellent
Before the trip Judy was very quick with her responses to our many detailed questions and very quick to advise and adapt the itinerary when we changed from a 17 day trip to a 14 day trip . We felt very confident in her hands
When we got to Japan everything was seamless . Judy continued to be very quick to respond . The various guides and drivers she’d arranged WhatsApped us the day before we were meeting them with times and other details . We felt very well looked after .
The Kyoto guide (Yuki ) and driver ( Shu ) were particularly good . Yuki’s English was very good and she really enhanced our 3 days of Kyoto sightseeing . Shu San the driver was very very courteous - he was always dressed smartly and got out to open the door and shelter us with his umbrella every time we left the car!
It is difficult to pick a favourite moments from the trip as I I enjoyed every minute from start to end but the following I really enjoyed but didn’t expect to as much as I did
- Teamlab planets - so much more interactive than I expected
- Tsukiji food market - one of the best food markets I’ve ever been to . The sushi restaurant recommended to us by our guide Yoshi was fantastic .
- Hakone Kowakien Tenyu hotel with private bath , particularly good for those of us who weren’t comfortable with the hotels open onsen , which btw were excellent too .
- Hakone - open air art museum . Quite a few famous artists work there including Picasso , Anthony Gorman , Henry Moore
I would highly recommend using Judy at KimKim to plan a Japan trip . The service was provided was very tailored and flexible e.g. we were allowed to book our own hotels but I’m sure Kimkim would have booked those for us too if we’d asked

Local specialist: Judy Zhang
Judy
Judy Zhang
Local specialist in Seoul and Japan | Replied on Nov 07, 2026
Hi Wing, Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a wonderful and detailed review! Your kind words truly mean a lot to me. ❤️ It was an absolute pleasure helping you and your family plan your 14-day Japan adventure. I'm so happy to hear that everything went smoothly and that you enjoyed the experiences, especially TeamLab Planets, Tsukiji Market, and Hakone. I'll also be sure to share your lovely compliments with Yuki, Shu, and the rest of our local team. They'll be delighted to... Read more

Hi Wing,

Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a wonderful and detailed review! Your kind words truly mean a lot to me. ❤️

It was an absolute pleasure helping you and your family plan your 14-day Japan adventure. I'm so happy to hear that everything went smoothly and that you enjoyed the experiences, especially TeamLab Planets, Tsukiji Market, and Hakone.

I'll also be sure to share your lovely compliments with Yuki, Shu, and the rest of our local team. They'll be delighted to know how much you appreciated their efforts!

Planning a trip for a family with different ages and interests can be quite an adventure, so I'm especially glad we could create an itinerary that everyone enjoyed.

Thank you again for trusting me and Kimkim with your family holiday. Your recommendation is the best reward for our work. I hope to have the pleasure of helping you plan another wonderful journey in the future!

Wishing you and your whole family all the very best!

Japan our once in a lifetime trip
Japan | Oct 12 - Oct 31, 2026

Sally
Sally B.
Sarasota, FL | Reviewed on Nov 07, 2026
Our trip was amazing and we loved the people and all of the places we visited. We had some minor glitches with checking in, including the wrong hotel name and address on the Kim Kim platform and differences in the checking in names on the reservations. We would have like more transparency in the room size; especially for the 3 nights or more in some of the cities we stayed in. Couple of hotels in the big cities, Tokyo and Osaka, the rooms were really tiny and it was difficult to walk around... Read more

Our trip was amazing and we loved the people and all of the places we visited. We had some minor glitches with checking in, including the wrong hotel name and address on the Kim Kim platform and differences in the checking in names on the reservations. We would have like more transparency in the room size; especially for the 3 nights or more in some of the cities we stayed in. Couple of hotels in the big cities, Tokyo and Osaka, the rooms were really tiny and it was difficult to walk around in the room with our suitcases and no closets to hang our clothes or put away our suitcases. Perhaps this could have been discussed with the perspective clients. The locations of the hotels in the 3 big cities were great and we were close to the metro stations. It was a bit difficult getting around on our own and we were glad to have a guide from the first day who bought our ticket and helped us navigate. For any tourists who isn't use to mass transportation, it is definitely worth hiring an English speaking guide to help get around. Taxis are pretty expensive so if you have a lot of suitcases, it's worth pre arranging transfers from the airport, and train station to the hotel. We had a couple of outstanding guides. Anna in Hong Kong and Hiro our guide for Osaka. Both were excellent and really made the tour extra special. We loved our Hakone stay, wonderful Ryokan and Japanese Teppanki dinner as well as the Buddhist monastery. If your guests can afford it, one more night stay would be recommended for either place. The weather was lovely in Mt Koya so we really enjoyed easy walks throughout the area. There were some nice cafes and restaurants in case your guests don't like vegetarian meals. We loved the Osaka aquarium which we found out later is the largest aquarium in the world. I would recommend that as an alternative to Nara. I heard from some of my friends who have been to Nara that they weren't crazy about Nara. However, we had bad weather so Nara that day was not an option. Food was very reasonable in Japan and even in the big cities. The best breakfast was the one in Ten-yu and the hotel in Kyoto. The breakfast in Osaka and Tokyo were ok. If any of your guests are going to H.K, I would highly recommend the Langham at Tsimsha Tsui . The hotel is a 5 star hotel and very reasonable for what you get. The breakfast is very expensive...38.00 usd per day, but we went to a local coffee shop and had breakfast there. Do not recommend Macau if your guests aren't interested in gambling. It was disappointment and the lunch at the casino wasn't great. However Lantau island is very relaxing and well worth it.
In all it was a great trip and Shona did a great job!!

Hotel Reviews
Karaksa hotel grande Shin-Osaka Tower
Osaka

The rooms were a bit small. But location was about a 5 minute walk from the train station.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Great location. Close to the train station and shopping
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
莲华定院 (Ren'gejo-in Temple (Pilgrim's Lodging))

Beautiful decor! Amazing room. Bedding very comfortable considering we slept on the floor.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Keisei Richmond Hotel Tokyo Oshiage

Great location, but rooms were small. We wish we had upgraded to a slightly bigger room. Having no closets made it difficult to maneuver in our rooms. Many of the staff did not speak English; however some had a portable translator. Across the street at their sister hotel, above was an amazing grocery store. We bought snacks and some Japanese Sake.

Authenticity & Character
The hotel staff were very nice and we loved the Onsen.
Location
We were across from the Sky tower metro. We went to the top one evening to see the night skyline.
Cleanliness & Comfort
All of the Japanese hotels were very clean. I think we had one problem with the Kyoto hotel only.
Hakone Kowakien TEN-YU
Hakone

Amazing 5 star hotel or Ryokan. Not sure which it was. But very authentic and wonderful Onsen. It was so relaxing. We didn't see much of the area since we didn't check in until 3pm and the weather was terrible, cold and rainy but perfect for the Onsen.

Location
Great location. Beautiful decor, excellent staff.
Staff
They were all nice and very professional.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean and we only had one problem in that there was a stain on the sheets and they came right away and changed the bed.
Sakura Terrace -Adult Only

We loved their welcome cocktail. I had the best plum wine there. The room was very small only 19 sq. meters. We asked to upgrade and Shona did that right away at her expense. I highly recommend this hotel if you can upgrade to a larger room.

Authenticity & Character
Great location and wonderful amenities. Free cocktail welcome drink, nice Onsen.
Location
It's close to the train station. However it was difficult to find the hotel. Especially for an older couple, it would be worth hiring someone to meet them at the train station and helping them with their suitcase. It's worth the extra costs and probably a lot cheaper than a taxi.
Staff
The Japanese staff were so polite and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
We upgraded to a bigger room. Our bathroom had a bit of a musty smell but I think it just needed a room deodorant.
Mitsui Garden hotel Gotanda Tokyo
Tokyo
Authenticity & Character
Location
My least favorite of all the hotels. However it was close to the airport.
Staff
Activity Reviews
Hong Kong Island Half-Day Classic Tour by Public Transportation
Hong Kong Island Half-Day Classic Tour by Public Transportation
Hong Kong

We enjoyed Anna. She was great and very easy going and informative.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kowloon Classic Half-Day Tour by MTR
Kowloon Classic Half-Day Tour by MTR
Hong Kong

It was very enjoyable seeing the shrine and how the Buddhist worshiped.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Anna our guide for both the half day tour of Hong Kong and Kowloon was wonderful.
Transport
We loved the size and quality of the vans for our pick up.
Local specialist: Shona Zhang

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.