Japan 10-Day Tours & Itineraries

Explore 28 trips designed by local kimkim specialists to get ideas for your trip to Japan.

Enjoy the best of both worlds in Japan with city explorations and out-of-city experiences. If you'd like to see Japan's biggest cities, embark on a 10-day journey from Tokyo and toward the quiet, more traditional Kyoto before discovering the food scene in Osaka and the historical landmarks of Hiroshima. Get the best out of city life and outdoor adventure with this highlights and hiking excursion, which takes you through bustling Kyoto, Nojiri's bamboo forests, Torii Pass peaks, and the Usui-toge plateaus. For a complete city escape, spend 10 days exploring the natural wonders of Japan, including ancient shrines, mountain peaks, bamboo forests, and the country's most prized landscape garden, concluding your journey in Kyoto and enjoying a boat cruise on the Hozugawa River past cherry blossoms.

See our itineraries below or read our guide to the best 10-day trips in Japan.

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The Kiyomizu-dera Temple overlooking Kyoto's skyline

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.

Explore historic Edo-era post towns along the Nakasendo Trail

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.

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.

Japan Golden Route - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary follows the path of Japan's ancient Tokaido Highway (the Golden Route) from the skyscrapers of ultra-modern Tokyo to the cultural heart of Kyoto. In between the two cities, you'll stop in the beautiful town of Hakone to soak up Mount Fuji views, hot springs, and excellent museums. Traveling by bullet train, your flexible Japan Rail Pass offers plenty of day-trips for a truly customizable adventure.

Explore Japan: Tokyo, Nikko, Hakone, & Kyoto - 10 Days

Along with two major cities–modern Tokyo and traditional Kyoto–this itinerary also takes you to the beautiful mountainside areas of Nikko and Hakone. The former is a place of much spiritual significance, and the latter is one of the best areas in the country to experience the Japanese hot springs. A mixture of old-meets-new Japan, this trip has all you need to experience multiple sides of the country.

Walking through the bamboo grove at Arashiyama

Family Adventure in Japan - 10 Days

This action-packed 10-day adventure around Japan is perfect for families! The itinerary leads you from the neon lights, futuristic interactive art, and whimsical character cafés of Tokyo to peaceful Lake Kawaguchi, where you can visit a nearby ninja theme park or ride one of the steepest roller coasters in the world. Then it's onward to Kyoto, where you'll learn how to make creative Japanese-style sweets and attend a tea ceremony. Travelers of all ages will enjoy visiting temples, bamboo groves, and shrines on the last few days of the trip in Arashiyama, Nara, and Osaka.

Cities and Islands of Japan: Tokyo, Osaka, Nagasaki, & More

Cities and Islands of Japan: Tokyo, Osaka & Nagasaki - 10 Days

This 10-day trip will take you to two of the biggest cities in Japan—Tokyo and Osaka—but will mostly focus on some of the lesser-known islands surrounding the mainland. Hachijojima has some of the best star gazing in the country, Aogashima is literally a volcano in a volcano and absolutely beautiful, and the Goto islands have a fascinating history.

Family Adventure in Japan: Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto - 10 Days

Traveling together as a family is such a special experience, and this 10-day action-packed adventure is specifically designed with families in mind. From Kanto to Kansai, this trip takes you from Tokyo and its modern, bustling streets to Kyoto with its tight hold on tradition. It's the perfect way to take in all that Japan has to offer while having plenty of family fun.

Explore Japan's Islands - 10 Days

On this scenic trip, you'll visit two of the largest cities in Japan: Tokyo and Osaka. However, your itinerary will mostly focus on some of the lesser-known islands surrounding the mainland. Hachijojima has some of the best stargazing in the country, Aogashima is a tiny, beautiful volcanic island, and the Goto islands have an impressive history with stunning beaches. Discover a side of Japan most visitors never get to see!

See the immense reclining Buddha in Fukuoka

History, Culture & Natural Wonders on Japan's Kyushu Island - 10 Days

Combine the great outdoors with history and culture on Japan's southern island of Kyushu. Start in Fukuoka, to explore the quiet ruins of Fukuoka Castle and sample the street food and shopping in Canal City. Float the Venice-like canals of Yanagawa, then it's off to the mystical hot springs of Beppu. Enjoy a sand bath on Beppu's beaches and ride horses in the volcanic Aso region, then wrap things up in Nagasaki, touring somber World War II reminders at Peace Park and strolling the abandoned island of Gunkanjima.

Follow the ancient Golden Route to discover three of Japan's most important cities

Japan's Golden Highlights: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka - 10 Days

This 10-day excursion is the perfect introduction to three of Japan's most notable cities. Following the ancient "Golden Route," your trip starts in Tokyo, where you'll take a foodie tour and stroll the grounds of ancient temples. See Mount Fuji up close and try local whisky, then hop on a train to Kyoto for traditional tea ceremonies and the bamboo groves of Arashiyama. Finish in buzzing Osaka, strolling its neon Dotonbori district and visiting Hiroshima's somber but significant Peace Memorial Park.

Ishite-ji, Temple 51 on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage Trail, Photo Courtesy of Shutterstock/fumoto_s

Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage Self-Guided Walking Tour - 10 Days

Spend 10 days walking and hiking Shikoku's 88 Temple Pilgrimage Trail, visiting historic Buddhist temples along the way. You'll see pilgrims, easily identified by their white clothing and walking staff, who spend weeks on the trail visiting all 88 temples. As you explore castles, small villages, and larger communities, sample local specialties and stay in traditional inns or pilgrims' lodgings, you'll get a real taste of Shikoku's unique culture.

Two girls at the Tsuten-kyo bridge at Tofuku-ji temple in Kyoto

Family Fun & Culture in Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka - 10 Days

Japan is a spellbinding destination for kids of all ages, and this family-friendly 10-day tour is the perfect introduction to the country's culture, food, and innovation. Split between Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, you'll start with digital art and a river cruise in the country's capital before catching the bullet train west. Discover temples, monkeys, ninjas, and samurai in ancient Kyoto, then finish up in Osaka to visit a noodle museum and the world's largest aquarium.

Stay two nights in Kyoto and stroll along the charming streets at dusk

Highlights of Japan & South Korea: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & Seoul - 10 Days

Discover the cultural wonders, vibrant cities, and delicious food of Japan and South Korea on this 10-day tour. Start by spending a day exploring Tokyo on your own before heading to the Fuji Five Lakes region to see Mount Fuji from all angles. Next, visit Kyoto and Osaka's temples, shrines, and castles, and then fly to South Korea's capital, Seoul. Here, you'll ascend N Seoul Tower for panoramic views and learn about North and South Korea's strained history at the Korean Demilitarized Zone to end the tour.

The animé fans in the family will love a trip to Gundam Base Tokyo

Adventurous Family Fun in Japan: Animé, Theme Parks & Cultural Excursions - 10 Days

It's all about family on this fun-filled 10-day jaunt through Japan. Start in Tokyo, where the kids can meet their favorite animé characters in Akihabara, catch some Pokémon at the Pokémon Center, and discover the wonders of Tokyo Disneyland. Learn about the secret world of ninjas and take a day trip to the Fuji Five Lakes region; then, it's off to Osaka for historic castles and the neon lights of Dotonbori. End your vacation in style with a day of rides and roller coasters at Universal Studios Japan.

Visit the historic Dogo Onsen on the island of Shikoku

Highlights of Japan's Shikoku Island: Culture, Nature & Art - 10 Days

Spend 10 days discovering Japan's smallest major island of Shikoku, where culture, nature, and history meet. Start in Matsuyama to visit Matsuyama Castle and relax in the hot springs of Dogo Onsen. Then, you're off to Kochi to see local temples and hike at Yasui Gorge. Take a train to explore the vine bridges of the Iya Valley, and continue to Tokushima and the temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage route. End in Takamatsu's Ritsurin Garden, walking peaceful paths or cruising the ponds in a traditional boat.

Explore Kyoto's many temples and shrines as a family

Japan Family Highlights Tour: Osaka, Kyoto & Tokyo - 10 Days

Discover the best of Japan with your family on this 10-day vacation that hits the country's natural wonders and cultural landmarks at a kid-friendly pace. Begin in Osaka, where ancient temples meet glass-fronted skyscrapers. Then, delve into Kyoto's tea ceremony culture, wander through bamboo forests, and cruise the Katsura River. Finish your adventure with immersive tours in Tokyo's pioneering digital art and science museums and a restful day on the shores of Mount Fuji.

Gaze above the clouds at Unkai Terrace on Hokkaido

Family Tour of Japan's Hokkaido Island: History, Culture & Outdoor Fun - 10 Days

This family-centric tour focuses on Japan's northern island of Hokkaido, known for its cooler climate and unspoiled nature. You'll hike around steamy ancient hot springs and learn about Japan's Edo period in Noboribetsu, then hop over to Toyako for lake cruises and a meet and greet with the brown bears of Showa Shinzan. Stroll the historic streets of Sapporo, create sweet treats at Ishiya Chocolate Factory, and end with outdoor excursions and relaxing resort time in Shimukappu.

Sample from endless food markets in Japan

Flavors of Japan Tour: A Cultural & Culinary Adventure - 10 Days

This 10-day tour of Japan offers culinary thrills for adventurous foodies and cultural excursions that highlight the country's traditions and history. Start in Tokyo to try local street food in Omoide Yokocho and visit the ancient temple of Senso-ji, then hop over to Kyoto for tea ceremonies and a tour of its bustling 400-year-old food market. Practice sushi-making and try flights of saké in Hiroshima, cruise to the island of Miyajima, and end with a mouthwatering Kobe beef dinner in Osaka.

End your luxury trip in Osaka, where you'll follow a private guide through the Edo-era Osaka Castle

Japan Luxury Highlights: Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto & Osaka - 10 Days

See Japan's highlights in grand style with this 10-day luxury tour. You'll start in Tokyo, dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, learning to make nigiri sushi with a private chef, and treating yourself to an elegant afternoon tea amid sky-high city views. Then, you're off to the natural beauty of Hakone for a cruise across Lake Ashi and a soothing hot springs retreat. Explore Shinto shrines and meditate in Zen temples in Kyoto, stop for a saké-tasting in Kobe, and end in Osaka with a visit to the city's Edo-era castle.

Hike a portion of the 330-mile long Nakasendo Trail, which includes a stop in Narai

Active Japan & South Korea Tour: Hike the Nakasendo Trail & Explore Seoul - 10 Days

Active travelers will love this 10-day adventure that takes you down a portion of the iconic 330-mile-long Nakasendo Trail. After a restful night in Tokyo, head to the post town of Magome, where you'll trek from post town to post town over four days, enjoying views of the lush Kiso Valley, ancient temples and shrines, and emerald rice fields. Then, fly to Seoul to discover some of the city's highlights and hike to the top of Mount Bukhansan to see a tranquil Buddhist sanctuary to end the tour.

Spend two days discovering Kyoto's historic landmarks (like Nijo Castle) on this 10-day highlights tour

Highlights of Japan & China: Tokyo, Kyoto & Beijing - 10 Days

Set off on a 10-day tour to see Japan and China's main highlights, starting in the vibrant capital of Tokyo. Witness the splendor of Senso-ji and admire Mount Fuji from every angle before taking a bullet train to Kyoto. Visit the Samurai Ninja Museum, explore Nijo Castle, and feed the free-roaming deer in the nearby city of Nara. End in another capital city, Beijing, where you can enter the Forbidden City, stroll along the Great Wall, and try authentic Peking duck.

Cruise across Lake Kawaguchiko for panoramic views of Mount Fuji

Nature & Culture Tour of Japan & China: Tokyo, Kyoto, Beijing & Shanghai - 10 Days

This 10-day journey through Japan and China seamlessly blends cultural exploration with the splendor of natural landscapes. While the bustling cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, Beijing, and Shanghai unfold with iconic landmarks and historical sites, this trip also includes escapes into serene oases, like Yoyogi Park and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. The journey extends to the Fuji Five Lakes region with a cruise across Lake Kawaguchiko and a trek across the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall.

Take a day trip from Tokyo to visit the 17th-century Nikko Toshogu Shrine

Discover Japanese & Korean Culture: Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima & Seoul - 10 Days

Get to the heart of Japanese and Korean culture on this 10-day trip to the vibrant cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Seoul. Learn about Shinto beliefs at Nezu Shrine, sit atop a tatami mat to watch a geisha performance, and see the devastating impact the world's first atomic bomb had on Hiroshima and its residents. You'll also take part in both countries' local food and drink scenes and can choose to participate in hands-on activities such as painting lucky cats and creating a stamp with your name in Korean.

Browse the food stalls at Nishiki Market in Kyoto during this 10-day tour

Culinary Discovery of Japan & South Korea: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & Seoul - 10 Days

Food lovers can enjoy plenty of eating, drinking, and learning about the rich cuisines of Japan and South Korea with this 10-day itinerary. Start with an omakase dinner in Tokyo, then sample malt and grain whiskies at the foot of Mount Fuji. Next, jump on a bullet train to Kyoto to partake in a tea ceremony and local dishes at Nishiki Market. You'll then taste different varieties of sake in Kobe and make sushi in Osaka before flying to Seoul for another cooking class and to learn about traditional herbal medicine.

Watch a traditional geisha performance in the historic Gion district

Japan & China Cultural Discovery Tour: Tokyo, Kyoto & Beijing - 10 Days

This 10-day journey intertwines the rich cultural tapestries of Japan and China. Begin in Tokyo, where you can visit iconic city shrines and take a day trip to a countryside waterfall. Delve into the Gion district in Kyoto to watch a geisha performance and partake in a katana crafting class. Fly to Beijing to uncover the secrets of the Forbidden City and traverse the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, then learn about traditional Chinese medicine and create your own perfume bag to end this whirlwind tour.

Stay in a historic luxury ryokan in Kyoto on this 10-day luxury tour of Japan (photo courtesy of Ryokan Genhouin)

Luxury Tour of Japan: Modern Meets Traditional in Tokyo, Kyoto & Miyajima - 10 Days

This lavish 10-day tour of Japan starts in Tokyo, where you'll dine at Michelin-starred restaurants and walk through the fragrant gardens of the Imperial Palace. Take a day trip to explore the wonders of Mount Fuji, then you're off to Kyoto for traditional tea ceremonies and a private geisha dinner show. See the famed Osaka Castle and hit the famous shopping street of Shinsaibashi, then end on the island of Miyajima, visiting the ancient Itsukushima shrine and Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park.

Enjoy Japan and China's most popular dishes as you hop between major cities

Culinary Discovery of Japan & China: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & Shanghai - 10 Days

Spend 10 days discovering the gastronomic delights of Japan and China, beginning in Tokyo. Visit an omakase sushi restaurant, grill your own Wagyu beef, and sample whisky at the foot of Mount Fuji. Take part in a tea ceremony in Kyoto and a food tour in Osaka before flying to Shanghai, where you can sample traditional benbang cuisine. Eating isn't all you'll do on this trip—you'll also cruise across Lake Kawaguchi and the canals of Tongli while stopping at plenty of UNESCO-listed landmarks along the way.

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