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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
(16)
· 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 Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel Tokyu
Tokyo
Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel Tokyu
4.7
(9)
· 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,...
Photo courtesy of The Gate Hotel Kyoto Takasegawa by Hulic
Kyoto
The Gate Hotel Kyoto Takasegawa by Hulic
5.0
(3)
· 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...

Our Latest Japan Content

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.

See the cultural sights of Japan and South Korea, like Himeji Castle, during this two-week tour
Map of Cultural Experiences & Historic Highlights in Japan & South Korea - 14 Days
Cultural Experiences & Historic Highlights in Japan & South Korea - 14 Days

Immerse yourself in Japan and South Korea's best cultural attractions on this two-week trip. Begin in Tokyo, exploring temples, gardens, and historic alleys, then take a day trip to the iconic Mount Fuji. Watch a geisha show in Kyoto and discover Hiroshima's peace parks and beautiful islands before heading to Osaka for castles and saké. Fly to Seoul, South Korea's capital, for ancient shrines and historic food markets. Then, explore the historic highlights of Andong and Gyeongju to cap off your trip.

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 1 min 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 min 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 1 min 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 3 mins 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

Wonderfully tasty tour of Japan and South Korea
Japan | Apr 7 - Apr 24, 2025

M
Mark Z.
Switzerland | Reviewed on Apr 29, 2025
Thanks to Kimkim we had a wonderful trip of Japan and South Korea. We got to see all the must-sees, from the Imperial Palace Gardens to Himeji Castle to the Korean DMZ, but we also got to see a few less-obvious places. We went to Kinomoto to visit a soy sauce brewery and a sake brewery, we stayed in a wonderful hotel with hot springs in Hakone and we visited teamLab Borderless in Tokyo - which was incredibly impressive, a very *different* kind of art experience. And of course, we got to try... Read more

Thanks to Kimkim we had a wonderful trip of Japan and South Korea. We got to see all the must-sees, from the Imperial Palace Gardens to Himeji Castle to the Korean DMZ, but we also got to see a few less-obvious places. We went to Kinomoto to visit a soy sauce brewery and a sake brewery, we stayed in a wonderful hotel with hot springs in Hakone and we visited teamLab Borderless in Tokyo - which was incredibly impressive, a very *different* kind of art experience. And of course, we got to try all kinds of different foods, which was half the point of our trip :D

Our tour guides were all friendly and the trip went smoothly. Shona coordinated with us and even provided alternative ideas for a self-guided day when her original suggestion turned out to be unexpectedly closed.

Hotel Review
Hakone Hotel Kajikaso
Hakone

Lovely hot spring tub in the room, very comfortable room overall. The food was great, and we got lucky enough to have a geisha performance while we had our kaiseki dinner. The "public" section of the hot springs was also really really nice, including sitting outside during a rainstorm.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku
Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku
Tokyo

Fuka was lovely company on a fun trip to Shinjuku - and she selected great restaurants, too!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Shona Zhang
Shona
Shona Zhang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Apr 29, 2025

Thank you so much for your review of the trip. We truly appreciate your recognition and trust in our work. We hope to see you on your next journey!

Katsu Okada-San of KimKim, Our lives are forever changed because of YOU and Japan.
Japan | Mar 31 - Apr 9, 2025

gay
gay b.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Apr 25, 2025
Katsu Okada-San of KimKim helped to create lasting memories on our first trip to Japan. This was our first visit to Japan; my ancestors are from Kumamoto-Ken. I daydreamed about Japan for years, cherry blossoms, Mt. Fuji-san, sashimi and being enveloped by the culture. The experience changed my life and my family’s lives, and I owe this to Katsu Okada-san. He tailored our needs with definite care and excellent communication needed for a family traveling across the ocean to... Read more

Katsu Okada-San of KimKim helped to create lasting memories on our first trip to Japan.

This was our first visit to Japan; my ancestors are from Kumamoto-Ken. I daydreamed about Japan for years, cherry blossoms, Mt. Fuji-san, sashimi and being enveloped by the culture.

The experience changed my life and my family’s lives, and I owe this to Katsu Okada-san. He tailored our needs with definite care and excellent communication needed for a family traveling across the ocean to unfamiliarity.

Upon arrival at Kansai airport in Osaka, he arranged for a driver to take us to our hotel. He helped to arrange guides in Osaka, Kumamoto, Kyoto, Hakone and lastly, Tokyo. Detailed instructions were sent by email and tickets sent to our hotels in advance with handwritten, step-by-step itinerary to travel to and from places. He set us up with lovely Japanese-native, mostly English-speaking guides in each city. Here are their names and memories of them:

Sachi Oguchi-san in Osaka - she was kind, patient and flexible, and took us off course to the Osaka Natural History Museum. She encouraged us to try the foods Osaka is known for.
Noboru Narukawa-san in Kumamoto – He was the kindest and sunniest person; he reminded me of my Japanese family in Hawaii. We communicated with Google Translate.
Akiko Tonomura-san in Kyoto - She was just as wonderful as the other guides, fun, enjoyable to learn from and kind, kind, kind.
Eriko Ishiguro-san in Tokyo - So filled with tender care for our family and really got to know us personally. She helped us to get familiar with Tokyo’s transportation system; I’m envious of its efficiency.

Through continued correspondence with Okada-san before, during and after Japan, I got to know him almost as a friend, sharing stories and emotions evoked by them. That’s the part of this writing I wanted to emphasize, how someone so far could have so much impact across the miles.

Thank you, Okada-san, from my and my family’s heart, for doing what you do so well and for helping to change our lives and viewpoints of the world.

Local specialist: Katsu Okada
Katsu
Katsu Okada
Local specialist in Vancouver | Replied on Apr 28, 2025
Dear Gay Beseth -san and Beseth Family, Thank you so much for your incredibly heartfelt message. Your kind words truly mean the world to me.
Meeting through KimKim and helping create your family’s first journey to Japan was not just part of my work—it was a truly special experience that I will always treasure. I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of such a meaningful trip, especially knowing your ancestral connection to Kumamoto.
I am especially grateful for all the beautiful photos...
Read more

Dear Gay Beseth -san and Beseth Family,

Thank you so much for your incredibly heartfelt message. Your kind words truly mean the world to me.
Meeting through KimKim and helping create your family’s first journey to Japan was not just part of my work—it was a truly special experience that I will always treasure. I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of such a meaningful trip, especially knowing your ancestral connection to Kumamoto.
I am especially grateful for all the beautiful photos you shared with me. They make me smile and brighten my day!Through our many messages and shared memories, I’ve come to feel a genuine connection with your family, and for that, I am truly thankful.
Please know that your journey touched my heart as much as it touched yours. I wish you all continued happiness and hope our paths will cross again soon!!

Warmest regards,
Katsu Okada

Great trip to Japan
Japan | Apr 11 - Apr 20, 2025

C
Colin B.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on Apr 25, 2025

Great Itinerary and and we really enjoyed the trip. Eleanor was really helpful throughout our trip and could always rely on her to respond to any questions or queries we had.

Local specialist: Eleanor Chen
Eleanor
Eleanor Chen
Local specialist in Japan and China | Replied on Apr 27, 2025

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a lovely review, Colin! I’m so happy to hear you enjoyed your trip and that I could be there to support you whenever you needed. It was a real pleasure working with you, and I hope to help you create another amazing journey in the future!

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.