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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.

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.

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.

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
Brilliant momiji maple at Nanzenji, Kyoto in late November
Best Time of Year to Visit Japan

Japan is famous for its Spring cherry blossoms and its changing colors in Autumn, but there are beautiful places to see in every season. Japan stretches from subtropical...

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 Cross Hotel Kyoto
Kyoto
Cross Hotel Kyoto
4.8
(20)
· Upscale
Cross Hotel Kyoto, set in Kawaramachi Sanjo, blends tradition and modernity with warm wooden decor showcasing Kyoto-style architecture. You'll be well connected, as the hotel is a 6-minute walk from Hankyu Kawaramachi Station and even closer to other public transport options, including the Sanjo...
Photo courtesy of The Gate Hotel Kyoto Takasegawa by Hulic
Kyoto
The Gate Hotel Kyoto Takasegawa by Hulic
5.0
(4)
· 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 Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel Tokyu
Tokyo
Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel Tokyu
4.6
(10)
· Upscale
Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel sets itself apart with a vintage-modern aesthetic that merges old and new in an effortlessly stylish way. This hotel exudes a creative vibe, offering a thoughtfully curated interior. You'll be in an ideal location, too, with the Shibuya district's numerous dining,...

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 Angel Tang
active 6 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 4 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 Shona Zhang
active 5 hours 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 Eleanor Chen
active 8 hours ago

Eleanor Chen

Hello from Japan! I'm Eleanor, your local specialist with over a decade of experience in creating memorable travel experiences. With my passion for food, culture, and nature, I thrive on...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Japan

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

We had an unforgettable custom journey throug...
Japan | Jul 25 - Aug 16, 2025

D
D L.
Tacoma, WA | Reviewed on Sep 01, 2025
We had an unforgettable custom journey through Japan and South Korea, organized by KimKim. It included memorable Hiroshima, dazzling Tokyo, historical Osaka and Kyoto, spiritual journey at Mount Koya and a more intimate taste of Central Japan hiking the historical Nakasendo Trail. South Korea was no less stunning. Guides, properties and transfers were all first rate. Sandy provided an amazing local support. Highly recommended! Read more

We had an unforgettable custom journey through Japan and South Korea, organized by KimKim. It included memorable Hiroshima, dazzling Tokyo, historical Osaka and Kyoto, spiritual journey at Mount Koya and a more intimate taste of Central Japan hiking the historical Nakasendo Trail. South Korea was no less stunning. Guides, properties and transfers were all first rate. Sandy provided an amazing local support. Highly recommended!

Hotel Reviews
NINE TREE BY PARNAS SEOUL MYEONDONG 2
Seoul
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ramada Encore by Wyndham Busan Haeundae
Busan
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Shima Onsen Sekizenkan
Gunma

Breakfast and dinner though authentic were a little exotic and stark.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Karuizawa Tsuruya Ryokan

it is too bad breakfast was not included here.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Truly special. It is too bad we did not have breakfast nor dinner reservations.
Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The breakfast though authentic and healthy was a little stark
Kisoji Inn Iwaya
Kiso-Fukushima
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Though it was clean , the room was not so inviting and my daughter thought it smelled like smoke.
Taoya Kisoji
Tsumago
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Excellent dining experience.
Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA
Kyoto
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Jokiin
Koyasan
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
THE KNOT HIROSHIMA
Hiroshima
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Asakusa View Hotel Annex Rokku
Tokyo

Excellent service and clean, comfortable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
World Heritage Himeji Castle & Kobe Tour
World Heritage Himeji Castle & Kobe Tour
Osaka
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Miyajima Island and Memorial Park Tour
Full Day Miyajima Island and Memorial Park Tour
Hiroshima
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Tokyo City Tour with Akihabara district
Full Day Tokyo City Tour with Akihabara district
Tokyo
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Mt. Fuji with Lake Kawaguchi & Oishi Park
Full Day Mt. Fuji with Lake Kawaguchi & Oishi Park
Japan

Long drive - poor weather.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Sandy Ren

We had a wonderful time in Japan! Everything ...
Japan | Aug 23 - Aug 31, 2025

H
Hana R.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Sep 01, 2025
We had a wonderful time in Japan! Everything was seemless and well organized. Since this was our first time in Japan, we much welcomed the ease of not having to arrange everything ourselves. In particular, it takes some time to figure out the public transportation and there are not very many english speaking people outside of big cities so having had some things pre arranged helped a lot! The choices of accomodcation, activities and timeline were perfectly suited for us.
We had an...
Read more

We had a wonderful time in Japan! Everything was seemless and well organized. Since this was our first time in Japan, we much welcomed the ease of not having to arrange everything ourselves. In particular, it takes some time to figure out the public transportation and there are not very many english speaking people outside of big cities so having had some things pre arranged helped a lot! The choices of accomodcation, activities and timeline were perfectly suited for us.
We had an unforgettable trip and will use Kim Kim again!
Thank you!

Hotel Reviews
Kyoto Umekoji Kadensho - Private Bath Facility

We loved the comfort feel. Hotel is lined with tatami floors throughout and it was so much fun to stroll laisurely in pajamas and socks (or barefoot) to the onsens in the morning, get a hot matcha in the lobby and sit for a breakfast all without having to change to regular clothes! Staff is very respectful and friendly. There is a free popsicle station in the afternoon and free noodles snack before bed. Location is fair. It is relatively close to the train station, but if you want to spend most of your time around the Gion district, it is not close. The stay was very relaxing though and I would opt for this hotel again since it is easy and only around 1,000- 2 ,000 Yen by taxi to get anywhere you need. We made a couple of out of Kyoto day trips during our stay and the location was very convenient for this as well.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Yoshiike Ryokan

Nice location and beautiful spa facility. We opted for the traditional tatami floor bedrooms building. It was a great experience, but the hotel wing had notable fishy smell that was at times overwhelming. Would opt for the main building with standard beds next time. The gardens were fabulous!

Authenticity & Character
Location
We did the Hakone ropeway and location was perfect. Easy to get to by local train. Nice small village with many dining options.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Shiba Park Hotel
Tokyo

Hotel staff was amazing, breakfast buffet was diverse with plenty of western meals options.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Eleanor Chen

Wonderful Trip to Japan
Japan | Aug 12 - Aug 20, 2025

Alejandra
Alejandra A.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Aug 22, 2025
We had such an easy and amazing time exploring a big chunk of Japan! Yas was our guide once we arrived and was very helpful in explaining how to travel while in Japan and Mina was a wonderful local specialist! She always answered all my questions and helped us whenever we needed anything! Would highly recommend this site, especially when traveling to Japan! Read more

We had such an easy and amazing time exploring a big chunk of Japan! Yas was our guide once we arrived and was very helpful in explaining how to travel while in Japan and Mina was a wonderful local specialist! She always answered all my questions and helped us whenever we needed anything! Would highly recommend this site, especially when traveling to Japan!

Hotel Reviews
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Hiroshima
Hiroshima

Very nice and spacious rooms! Breakfast was amazing as always in Japan. Very clean as well! Very comfortable nights rest!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
THE KANZASHI TOKYO ASAKUSA

Breakfast is amazing! Very nice and helpful staff, and very close to a lot of fun little shops, a temple, and more! Rooms are nice and clean. Very comfortable stay

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Royal Park Canvas Kyoto Nijo
Kyoto

Breakfast is buffet style! The rooms are very spacious and clean! Really nice after a long day of being on your feet! Very close to a train station and a 7-11 !

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ryokan Fukuzumiro

Very nice and amazing staff!! The rooms are very comfortable, and our helper was very attentive to our schedule and needs! The onsen are to DIE for and soooo relaxing! Very nice koi pond inside and an amazing view from the rooms!

Authenticity & Character
Very traditional japanese inn!
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Yaenomidori Tokyo
Chuo City

Staff are very helpful and friendly. Highly recommend the foot bath spa they offer! Very nice rooms, very comfortable! Delicious breakfast too!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to the Haneda airport and really close to major shopping districts!
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Airport assistant premium Tokyo HND [8:00 - 20:00]
Tokyo

Very helpful in teaching us how to operate in Japan with our IC cards and explaining a bunch of our itinerary to us!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Pocket wifi 1 day to 1 month
Pocket wifi 1 day to 1 month
Japan

Very very useful to keep us online for google maps and in case I needed my local assistant! Very easy to use and return as well

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Transportation card IC
Japan

Very convenient and easy to use / recharge.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Welcome to Japan!
Welcome to Japan!
Japan

Very fun arrival, learning how everything works! Relaxed arrival to prepare for the busy days ahead!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hakone Jinja Shrine
Hakone Jinja Shrine
Hakone

Very beautiful. Peaceful shrine with a lot of fun things to do right before the shrine as well!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Experience Ryokan
Experience Ryokan
Japan

Amazing experience and very friendly staff. The onsen is very peaceful and relaxing after a long day of exploring. The food is delicious as well and having the view of the river as you sleep is unbeatable.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kimono Rental + Outdoor photo shooting
Kimono Rental + Outdoor photo shooting
Kyoto

Had so much fun taking the pretties photos with a kimono! The photographer is super nice and so is the staff at the kimono rental facility.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Goodbye Japan!
Goodbye Japan!
Japan

I was really sad to leave. Make sure you know what terminal your flight is on, to help prevent getting lost (like me) Transport was really simple otherwise.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit Tokyo Skytree
Visit Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo

Very fun activity! Dinner inside is a bit expensive but a very nice experience. Many souvenir shops, and very amazing views!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Mina Helland

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.