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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.

The original paved stones of the old Nakasendo Trail
Map of Walking the Historic Nakasendo Trail - 10 Days
Walking the Historic Nakasendo Trail - 10 Days

Take a walk through time on this 10-day Japan tour. The highlight of this journey is a self-guided walk on the Nakasendo Trail, a historic walking route that's part of feudal Japan's original network of highways. Historically, travelers on the mountain path between Kyoto and Tokyo took several days to travel the distance, staying overnight in jukus (post towns or post station villages). You'll retrace their footsteps as you meander through serene forests, dip in thermal springs, and rest in local inns by night, taking time to explore the vibrant cities of Kyoto and Tokyo at the start and end of the trip.

Unmanned stone steps of Kumano Nachi Taisha
Map of Hiking Japan's Kumano Kodo - 11 Days
Hiking Japan's Kumano Kodo - 11 Days

Get off the beaten path and onto the Kumano Kodo, a network of ancient pilgrimage trails in the remote Kii Peninsula. Trek to grand shrines and thermal hot springs on this self-guided trip, great for those looking to challenge themselves with full-day hikes through hilly terrain. You'll be rewarded, however, with unforgettable experiences as you follow in the footsteps of emperors.

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.

Best of Old and New Japan
Map of Best of Old and New Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto, & More - 14 Days
Best of Old and New Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto, & More - 14 Days

The combination of historic and modern beauty makes Japan the ideal vacation destination. On this journey of old world-meets-new world, you will explore the progressive city of Tokyo, along with strolling through pockets of old Japan. Excursions into the hot springs of Gero Onsen and the gardens of Kanazawa will allow you to experience the preservation of nature. Even still, you can channel Japan’s past–in present-day–by taking up residency in a thatched-roof farmhouse in Shirakawa-go, connecting with long-time local artisans in Takayama, and exploring the ancient temples of Kyoto.

Make the Most of Your Time in Japan

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
How Many Days to Spend in Japan

Japan is made up of hundreds of islands that extend for nearly 2,000 miles. How many days should you spend exploring, and where should you focus your time? From an action-packed...

The Osaka skyline and historic landmark, Osaka Castle
Map of 1 Week in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With a week to spend in Japan, some travelers focus on Tokyo, adding side trips to Hiroshima and Mount Fuji. If you're eager to experience a more traditional side of Japanese...

Japan's Traditional temples illuminated at night
Map of 10 Days in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in Japan, you can choose to tour Japan's major cities—Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. Or get away from the bright lights and crowds, choosing a trip through...

A quiet street in Kyoto
Map of 2 Weeks in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks to spend in Japan, you can take a classic tour around the country's highlights—including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima—or opt for an itinerary focusing specifically...

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...

Our Latest Japan Content

Hike and bike to against a backdrop of Japan's most iconic landscapes, like Mount Fuji
Map of Active Tour of Japan's Cities & Temples  - 11 Days
Active Tour of Japan's Cities & Temples - 11 Days

From sprawling Tokyo to peaceful Mount Koya, experience the full spectrum of Japanese culture on this 11-day tour by train, car, foot, and bicycle. Eat your way through Tokyo and Osaka's lively food markets and glimpse Mount Fuji while cycling around Lake Kawaguchiko. Walk through Fushimi Inari's unforgettable 10,000 torii gates and stroll among geisha in Kyoto's Gion District. End your discovery immersed in Buddhist rituals as you spend the night in a temple on Mount Koya.

On this 11-day tour discover Japan's rich cultural heritage with views of Mount Fuji
Map of Japan Cultural Discovery:  Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto & Osaka - 11 Days
Japan Cultural Discovery: Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto & Osaka - 11 Days

Experience Japan's culture through its food, architecture, sports, and art on this 11-day tour from Tokyo to Osaka. Learn about sushi-making and Sumo in Tokyo, then join locals in their daily shopping at Tsukiji Outer Fish Market. Soak in the hot springs of Hakone and sail across Lake Kawaguchi for Mount Fuji views. Walk among geisha and stroll through Fushimi Inari's red torii gates in Kyoto, then get your fill of street food in the culinary hotspot of Osaka.

A family sitting at a temple surrounded by autumn leaves
Map of  Family-Friendly Tour of Japan's Cities: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka - 11 Days
Family-Friendly Tour of Japan's Cities: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka - 11 Days

Japan is a wonderland for families, with cultural, natural, and modern attractions that will appeal to all ages. This 11-day trip visits three of the country's most significant cities—Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka—with an itinerary chock-full of kid-friendly outings and excursions. Broaden little ones' minds as they explore colorful temples and shrines, meet the local wildlife, and sample exotic new foods—then reward their patience with visits to Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan.

Japan Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Japan map: Guide to Japan's Main Regions
Guide to Japan's Main Regions
View article
Japan map: 14 Days in Japan - 5 Unique Itineraries
14 Days in Japan - 5 Unique Itineraries
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Japan map: How to Spend 3 Days on Okinawa
How to Spend 3 Days on Okinawa
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Japan
Travel specialist Christine Mayol
active 1 day ago

Christine Mayol

We are a client-focused travel experts in Japan. We specializes in more personalized travel plans for families, groups, couples and individuals. Depends on your preferences, we will help you make...

read more...
Travel specialist Tom Zhou
active 1 day ago

Tom Zhou

My passion for travel has taken me to visit all 11 Southeastern Asia countries. 12 years of experience with Odynovo Travel has given me the opportunity to witness some of the world’s most cherished...

read more...
Travel specialist Irish S.
active 23 hours ago

Irish S.

Greetings, fellow traveler! We focus on crafting tailor-made travel planning for individuals, couples, groups, and families. Depending on what you want – we will provide everything within your...

read more...
Travel specialist Claudia Martinez Sierra
active 5 days ago

Claudia Martinez Sierra

We specialize in creating tailor trips to Japan whether you already have in mind what you want to do or if you need help we are more than happy to discover Japan with you!

read more...

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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.

100% satisfaction guarantee
Kimkim offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not fully satisfied with us, we’ll work with you to make it right.
kimkim trips are 100% climate neutral
A portion of every kimkim trip goes toward the removal of carbon from the atmosphere. Learn more
BBB A+ rated

Kimkim is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.

Trip Reviews for Japan

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Awesome 16 day trip in Japan!
Japan | May 12 - May 27, 2023

Nicola
Nicola R.
Canada | Reviewed on Jun 03, 2023

One of our dream destinations to visit was Japan, and the whole experience booking with kimkim was great! From the planning phase, Christine was able to grasp our needs quickly and was able to make all the adjustments we were looking for our 16 day long trip. The activities booked (shout out to the Osaka food tour and the Kyoto tea ceremony) were very memorable and the accomodations (shout out the the Ryokans on the Nakasendo trail) were also great! During the trip, Christine was also... read more

One of our dream destinations to visit was Japan, and the whole experience booking with kimkim was great! From the planning phase, Christine was able to grasp our needs quickly and was able to make all the adjustments we were looking for our 16 day long trip. The activities booked (shout out to the Osaka food tour and the Kyoto tea ceremony) were very memorable and the accomodations (shout out the the Ryokans on the Nakasendo trail) were also great! During the trip, Christine was also available to answer our questions and get us a functioning pocket wifi devices quickly after we received a faulty one upon our arrival. All in all, our trip was simply amazing.

Hotel Reviews
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Daimon
Tokyo

Good breakfast and helpful staff.

Authenticity & Character
Relatively basic hotel, but the japanese breakfast buffet was delicious !
Location
Even if Minato City is not as vibrant is Shibuya or Shinjuku, it's close to transportation (and Tokyo Tower as well).
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Super clean, rooms a little small for western standards, but totally ok for Japan.
Wayfarer Hotel Kyoto Shijo
Kyoto

Nice little hotel, the tatami room was nice and comfy for 4 people.

Authenticity & Character
Tatami room was pretty nice ! Bathroom a little small for 4 people.
Location
Close to the subway stations and buses
Staff
Very friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
The futons were very comfortable!
Kinosaki Yamamotoya

Awesome Ryokan with a lot of character and good japanese breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Alot of 60-70s vibes with old-school japanese charm.
Location
Great location in Kinosaki, close to everything.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean, but futons were not the most comfortable.
Ibis budget Osaka Umeda
Osaka
Authenticity & Character
Typical hotel, not much character.
Location
Super close to the subway, well located in Umeda.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Comfy beds!
Sanco Inn Nagoya Shinkansenguchi
Nagoya

Nothing fancy, but clean and well located.

Authenticity & Character
Nothing remarkable
Location
Directly in front of Nagoya station
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Windows were facing another building, so no natural light in the room. Besides that the room was comfortable.
Fujioto
Nagano

Awesome Ryokan, staff super friendly and one of the best meals of our whole trip.

Authenticity & Character
Very authentic and amazing food.
Location
Very cute location in Tsumago
Staff
Super friendly and welcoming
Cleanliness & Comfort
Kaidou Roman Onyado Tsutaya
Kiso
Authenticity & Character
A little more "hotel" vibes, but still very nice.
Location
A little far by foot from the station, but still well located.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very nice outdoor Onsen bath.
Ryokan Echigoya

We had the Ryokan to ourselves, it had a ton of Edo japense charm. Our host was amazing, the food was delicious, the room was comfy and beautiful and the overall experience was exactly what we were looking for in a Ryokan.

Authenticity & Character
Old building with a ton of character and authenticity
Location
Directly in the middle of Narai's main street.
Staff
Yutaka-san was an amazing host.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Arrive in Tokyo - Train to Tokyo Station
Tokyo

It was nice to have a greeter help us buy our IC cards and bring us to the train, but she seemed in a rush and we were expecting to have our wifi devices atthe airport, which would have helped us find our hotel faster.

Quality of Experience
We were expecting pocket wifi and passes upon arrival, which weew at the hotel. Thus, getting the hotel was not the easiest
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our greeter was nice but a little in a rush.
Transport
We made it, but instructions could have been a little more detailed.
Tea ceremony and see shrine, temples
Kyoto

This review will only be regarding the Tea ceremony in Kyoto (Maikoya). It was really fun, relaxing and authentic!

Quality of Experience
We got to wear kinomo/yukata, the tea was good, awesome experience!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The staff was very insightful and nice !
Day trip to Nara and Uji
Kyoto

We didn't have a chance to stop in Uji, but even though it eas raining, we had a great time in Nara!

Quality of Experience
Visit Kinosaki Onsen
Kyoto

It was very nice being able to visit and use mutiple onsens.

Quality of Experience
The onsens were so nice and relaxing!
Welcome to Osaka
Osaka

One of the best nights of our trips, we ate and drank to our hearts content! We hung out with some locals, tasted delicious food and even went down a slide !

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Big shout out to Levy!
Magome to Tsumago
Japan

The hike was great, going through small towns and the country side! We saw watermills, water falls and awesome forest and mountain landscapes. The tea house on the way was really cool and the trail was well indicated.

Quality of Experience
Yabuhara to Narai Hike
Japan

Awesome little hike, nice fews atop the moutain in Yabuhara and very nice forest landscapes. Narai is probably the nicest post town we visited!

Quality of Experience
Exploring the Facades of Tokyo
Tokyo
Tokyo Departure
Japan

Not an actual activity, but we were very sad having to leaving Japan :( But we left with a ton of awesome memories!

Local specialist: Christine Mayol

Shaun & Lesley 40th Japan Trip
Japan | May 17 - May 26, 2023

Shaun
Shaun L.
Minneapolis, MN | Reviewed on May 27, 2023

Malissa did a wonderful job working with us to put together a fantastic itinerary for our ten-day trip through Japan (Tokyo > Hakone > Kyoto > Osaka). During the planning phase, she provided numerous options based on interests and budget and was quick to respond to questions. The itinerary documentation was detailed and allowed us to focus on enjoying our experiences. We had friendly and knowledgeable guides: Jared was welcoming when we arrived rather jet lagged and helped get us situated,... read more

Malissa did a wonderful job working with us to put together a fantastic itinerary for our ten-day trip through Japan (Tokyo > Hakone > Kyoto > Osaka). During the planning phase, she provided numerous options based on interests and budget and was quick to respond to questions. The itinerary documentation was detailed and allowed us to focus on enjoying our experiences. We had friendly and knowledgeable guides: Jared was welcoming when we arrived rather jet lagged and helped get us situated, Harold took us on unique activities and Seiho gave us lots of ideas for our free time. We loved soaking in the onsen baths at Hakone Kowakien Ten-y and making sushi at Cooking Sun Osaka.

Activity Reviews
Tour of Hakone
Hakone
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tea Ceremony in Kyoto
Kyoto
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sushi-making Experience
Osaka
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Tour of Kyoto
Kyoto
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Rickshaw Ride in Arashiyama
Kyoto
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Malissa Esquivias

Odynovo Tours did a wonderful job!
Japan | May 9 - May 23, 2023

M
maria M.
Shaw, DC | Reviewed on May 25, 2023

Odynovo Tours did a wonderful job planning and executing our trip to Japan. From the beginning, working with John to agree on a 2-week trip plan that was best for us, to Kalinda's travel coordination including obtaining transportation and tour tickets, it was all done very efficiently and with good and prompt communication.

Our individual tour guides as booked by Kalinda were all excellent and we learned a lot about the sites we visited with them. These guides were all very flexible and... read more

Odynovo Tours did a wonderful job planning and executing our trip to Japan. From the beginning, working with John to agree on a 2-week trip plan that was best for us, to Kalinda's travel coordination including obtaining transportation and tour tickets, it was all done very efficiently and with good and prompt communication.

Our individual tour guides as booked by Kalinda were all excellent and we learned a lot about the sites we visited with them. These guides were all very flexible and adjusted the tour visits to match our wishes and tastes. The group tours in Kyoto covered a lot of ground and were well explained.

The train stations were at times somewhat challenging to find our way around, but there was always someone to help us out very politely.

We would definitely book a trip through Odynovo again in the future.

Local specialist: John Hu