Japan Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts in Japan

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Explore Japan's incredible cuisine on this weeklong luxury tour

Luxury Foodie's Tour of Japan: Tokyo & Kyoto - 7 Days

Immerse yourself in Japan's delectable cuisine and its world-class dining scene with this weeklong luxury tour spread across stays at Tokyo and Kyoto's top hotels. Your journey begins in the capital with a kaiseki cooking class, Michelin-starred fine dining, and a tour of the famous Tsukiji Fish Market. Then, it's off to Japan's cultural heartland for a geisha performance and traditional kimono tea ceremony in Kyoto before sampling Kobe's renowned beef and visiting a saké distillery.

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.

Explore some of Japan's most iconic landmarks, including the UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go

Highlights of Japan: Tokyo, Hakone, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto & Osaka — 16 Days

Perfect for first-timers, this 16-day itinerary takes you on a journey through some of Japan's most iconic destinations. Start in Tokyo, where you can dive into Japanese culture by watching a sumo wrestling session and see famous landmarks like Senso-ji, the oldest temple in the city. Explore Hakone and Takayama at your own pace, then learn how to make traditional crafts in Kanazawa. Ride a rickshaw around Kyoto before ending in Osaka with a day trip to Hiroshima, the site of the world's first atomic bomb.

Experience the day-to-day life of a monk at your shukubo in Mount Koya

Japan Cultural Discovery Tour: Tokyo, Kyoto, Mount Koya & Osaka - 16 Days

Set off on a 16-day cultural discovery across Japan's vibrant cities and natural landscapes. Begin the adventure in Tokyo, where you'll explore the city's oldest temple and delve into bonsai culture at a nearby museum. Then, take a train to Takayama to admire ornate festival floats and learn how to make traditional crafts. From here, visit Shirakawa-go to see traditional farmhouses, watch a geisha performance in Kyoto, and stay in an active temple on Mount Koya before ending this whirlwind trip in Osaka.

Pick between charming izakayas in Kyoto's Pontocho district

Culinary Discovery of Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima & Osaka - 16 Days

Delve into Japan's rich cuisine on this 16-day tour across Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka. Start with a food tour in bustling Shinjuku before sampling whisky at the foot of Mount Fuji and watching a tuna auction at Toyosu Fish Market. Then, take a train to Kyoto to partake in a tea ceremony and sample matcha-flavored treats in nearby Uji. Break up all the eating with a history lesson in Hiroshima, and finish in Osaka, where you can learn how to make—and taste—sake, ramen, and gyoza.

Follow an ancient stone path along the Kumano Kodo trail to see the Nachi Waterfall

Active Adventure in Japan: Hiking Trails, Hot Springs & Iconic Landmarks - 16 Days

Pack your best hiking shoes and get ready for an active adventure across some of Japan's most iconic natural landscapes. Start with a city break in Tokyo and then begin a series of hikes around the Fuji Fike Lakes, Mount Ashigara in Hakone, and Mount Inari in Kyoto. From here, spend a day in Osaka before following the pilgrimage routes of Koyasan Choishi Michi and Kumano Kodo over five days. End the trip back in Osaka with a free day to sample top-notch street food to close out this whirlwind tour.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Introduce your little ones to Japanese culture with an epic two-week family tour

2 Weeks in Japan - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks to explore Japan as a family, you can embark on a fun-filled highlights tour complete with theme park visits in Tokyo and Osaka and cultural interactions in Kyoto. Or, speed things up with an active trip that pairs time in the main cities with visits to the remote villages of Magome and Kiso-Fukushima. Other options include an off-the-beaten-path adventure for families seeking a deep cultural connection and a well-rounded itinerary featuring time on the idyllic island of Okinawa.

Explore both the traditional and avant-garde food scene in Japan

Culture & Cuisine in Japan: Tokyo, Osaka & Kyoto - 8 Days

This tasty culinary adventure through Japan takes you to the country's gastronomic capitals, starting in Tokyo, where you'll try authentic omakase sushi in the foodie haven of Shinjuku and sip fine whiskies. Next, you'll train to Kyoto to learn about the mysterious world of the geisha and sample sakés in the Fushimi district. Then it's time to make ramen at a ramen factory, ending your trip in Osaka, home to the iconic Osaka Castle and delicious food stalls in the Kuromon Market.

Experience Japan's warm culture on a 10-day family trip

10 Days in Japan - 4 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in Japan, you can introduce young travelers to Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo's futuristic theme parks and exciting cuisine on a family highlights tour. Or, for a nature-focused excursion, head to Hokkaido Island and enjoy watching the kids' confidence soar while hiking, cruising, and horseback riding. Other options include an animé and theme park-infused adventure and a well-rounded trip that lets children discover their own preferences while hopping between modern, natural, and traditional wonders.

Take the kids to Kyoto to experience the historic streets and a traditional tea ceremony

1 Week in Japan - 4 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

Japan's trains allow families to experience two destinations in one week. Those keen on animation and theme parks will enjoy mingling with animé aficionados in Harajuku and splashing around at DisneySea. Budding chefs can sample street eats on a family food tour in Shinjuku and learn the art of sushi making at Tsukiji Fish Market. Parents with younger children interested in experiencing Japan's nature and culture can cruise the Sumida River by boat and play samurai at Okochi Mountain Villa.

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.

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.

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.

End your two-week adventure on the beaches of Okinawa

Epic Family Tour Across Japan: Futuristic Fun, Culture, History & Beaches - 14 Days

This exciting two-week family adventure in Japan starts in the capital city of Tokyo, where you'll say hello to resident robots at the Miraikan Museum and catch all the Pokémon at the Pokémon Center. Take a day trip to majestic Mount Fuji, then it's off to Kyoto for tea ceremonies, the Railway Museum, and the friendly deer of Nara. See the neon lights of Osaka's Dotonbori district, take some wild rides at Universal Studios Japan, and end with sun and fun on the white-sand beaches of the Okinawa Islands.

Step into the past in historic Kyoto, with kimonos, tea ceremonies, and samurai

Active Family Tour of Japan: Culture, History & Nature - 14 Days

Adventure awaits on this 14-day family itinerary that blends culture, nature, and outdoor fun. Start in Tokyo to explore local cuisine and immerse the family in the world of animé in the lively Akihabara district. Hop over to Hakone for views of Mount Fuji, experience a tea ceremony and cycle through the bamboo groves of Kyoto, then catch a train to the neon lights of Osaka's Dotonbori district. After some gentle day hikes along the famous Nakasendo Trail, end in Matsumoto to visit its mighty castle.

Go beyond Japan's major cities and explore highlights like historic Kanazawa on this two-week family tour

Japan Off-the-Beaten-Path Family Adventure - 14 Days

Go beyond the highlights with two weeks of family fun throughout Japan's major cities and smaller towns. Get a taste of Tokyo with a kid-friendly food tour; then, it's off to Hakone for ropeway rides and green tea baths at a hot springs resort. Channel your inner samurai as you walk the Edo-era streets of Takayama, practice your painting skills with Kanazawa's artisans, don a kimono for a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto, and end with a spin on Osaka's high-flying Tempozan Ferris wheel.

Dive into the heart of Japanese culture and tradition in Kyoto

Family Fun & Culture in Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka - 14 Days

Embark on a whirlwind tour of Japan's family attractions with this two-week tour brimming with culture, theme parks, and natural wonders. Ideal for families with kids aged seven and over, you'll start in neon-lit Tokyo as a base for Disney trips, Mount Fuji, and digital fun in the city. Head next to Kyoto for culture and adventures in Arashiyama and finish in Osaka, where you'll find the perfect blend of Godzilla, animé, and ancient shrines.

Mount Fuji, one of many natural wonders on your memorable trip to Japan

Japan City & Nature Tour for Families: Osaka, Kyoto, Hakone & Tokyo - 14 Days

With two weeks in Japan, you and your family can combine dazzling neon city time with outdoor excursions across lakes, mountains, and forests. Perfect for older kids and teens, this itinerary takes you from Osaka's ancient and modern landmarks to Kyoto's temples, shrines, and wildlife experiences. You'll discover the revered Mount Fuji over two days in Hakone and finish in Tokyo for sushi, river cruises, innovative digital art, and a memorable mountain hike.

Cycle around key sections of Lake Biwa including charming canals

Cycling Expedition Around Japan's Lake Biwa - 8 Days

Active travelers will love cycling around the largest freshwater lake in Japan during this eight-day adventure. Starting and ending in the cultural powerhouse of Kyoto, you'll cycle the perimeter of Lake Biwa, admiring the natural landscapes and cultural attractions along the way. See a part of Japan that many international tourists overlook while enjoying classic local experiences like soaking in onsen baths and dining on traditional cuisine. This tour is ideal for outdoor lovers who enjoy a dose of culture, too.

Trek through the plateau's of Japan's Kamikochi Valley

Relaxed Hike Along Japan's Nakasendo Trail: Mountains, Forests & Historic Sites - 7 Days

This active adventure takes you to some of Japan's most memorable sights, all via the historic Nakasendo Trail. You'll start in the post-town of Magome, where you'll stroll cobbled streets and see traditional architecture. Then, hike to Tsumago and enjoy its distinctive old-world charm. Trek through the bamboo forests of Nojiri, conquer the slopes of Torii Pass, then take the train to Matsumoto and tour the famed Matsumoto Castle. End on the alpine trails of Kamikochi and visit a working wasabi farm.

Take a cruise across tranquil Lake Toya in Hokkaido

Discover Hokkaido: Cuisine, History & Culture in Northern Japan - 7 Days

See the highlights of Japan's northern island of Hokkaido with this adventurous tour. Start in Sapporo, where you'll dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, climb Sapporo TV Tower for panoramic views, and take a day trip to the scenic canals of Otaru. Then, it's off to Noboribetsu for hiking through the famed Hell Valley, relaxing in bubbling hot springs, and a cruise along the peaceful shores of Lake Toya. End in the port town of Hakodate and bike, walk, or canoe the lakes of Onuma Quasi-National Park.

Explore the delicious cuisine of Japan with market tours, street food walks, and hands-on workshops

Culinary Excursion Through Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka - 7 Days

Take a deep dive into Japanese cuisine and culture on this weeklong food-filled adventure that kicks off in the capital city of Tokyo. Stroll the vibrant Shinjuku district, sample Wagyu beef, and say hello to cosplayers in lively Harajuku. Then, hop on the train to Kyoto, where you'll see city sights and try different varietals at the saké museum. Learn to make ramen noodles, then finish in the foodie paradise of Osaka, eating your way through the savory street foods of Kuromon Market.

Spend a day cruising and hiking in Shikotsu-Toya National Park

Best of Japan's Hokkaido Island: Sapporo, Noboribetsu & Hakodate - 8 Days

Japan's great northern island, Hokkaido, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. It's an uncrowded place where dramatic landscapes take center stage, with plenty of volcanoes, mountains, lakes, and geothermal attractions to choose from. This eight-day tour starts in the foodie capital, Sapporo, and from here, you'll visit the dramatic scenery in Noboribetsu and the mountains and lakes in two national parks before finishing in the cool port city of Hakodate.

See some of Kyoto's many temples including Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion

Best of Japan: Kobe, Kyoto, Mount Koya & Osaka - 8 Days

Japan's Kansai region is loaded with culture, urban attractions, and natural beauty—and is relatively compact. With just eight days you can experience much of the region's diversity, from Kyoto's ancient temples to Kobe's modern architecture, not to mention fishing villages, beaches, hot springs, and traditional crafts. Get a taste of some of Western Japan's finest sights and experiences on this well-rounded itinerary that will pique your curiosity and leave you inspired.

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.

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.

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.

The kids will love browsing the cute characters and charming souvenirs in Tokyo's busy shopping streets

Fun-Filled Family Highlights of Japan: Tokyo & Kyoto - 7 Days

Spend a week discovering some of Japan's most family-friendly highlights with this lighthearted itinerary. Start in Tokyo to walk the jam-packed alleyways of Tsukiji Fish Market and let the kids practice their Pokémon Master skills at the Pokémon Center. Ride a glass-paneled ropeway up the slopes of Mount Fuji, then hop a train to Kyoto for a family tea ceremony and a visit to the Kyoto Railway Museum. End with a stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and a ride on the Sagano Scenic Railway.

Learn about the history and culture of Kyoto with family-friendly tours and experiences

Relaxed Family Tour of Japan: Tokyo & Kyoto - 7 Days

See the best of Tokyo and Kyoto at an easy pace with a week of family-focused tours and cultural highlights. Discover ancient temples and animé fun in the capital, then spend a day on the wild rides of DisneySea. Continue to historic Kyoto, where youngsters can take part in a traditional tea ceremony, blaze their own trail through the Sagano Bamboo Grove, and meet the monkeys at Arashiyama Monkey Park. End with a family photo-op at the iconic red gates of Fushimi Inari.

Explore the bustling streets of Tokyo with your family

Adventurous Family Fun in Japan: Animé, Ninjas, Godzilla & Theme Parks - 7 Days

Family adventures abound on this high-octane weeklong tour through Japan. It starts in Tokyo as you explore historic temples, tour the animé-centric Akihabara, and learn to make authentic Japanese sushi. Then, it's off to Osaka for the neon lights of the Dotonbori district alongside the wild rides of Universal Studios Japan. End with a day at Awaji Island's Nijigen No Mori Park, where the kids can meet their favorite manga characters and battle against the monster Godzilla!

Treat your little ones to plenty of kid-friendly treats like daifuku (stuffed mochi) on a Tokyo food tour

Family Travels in Japan: Tokyo, Fujiyoshida & Kyoto - 7 Days

See the wonders of Japan with your family on this seven-day tour that starts in the bustling capital city of Tokyo. Explore the interactive art of TeamLab Planets and visit the historic Senso-ji temple, then you're off to see the peaks of Mount Fuji. Cruise along Kawaguchi Lake, ride the ropeway for sky-high views, and spend a day at nearby Fuji Q Amusement Park for thrilling rollercoasters and animé fun. End with a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto and a visit with curious monkeys in Arashiyama.

Japan Cityscapes, Culture & Beaches Tour - 14 Days

See the wonders of Japan on this whirlwind two-week trip that takes in cities, mountains, beaches, and beyond. Start in energetic Tokyo to explore the otherworldly Odaiba District and learn to make a traditional Japanese meal, then it's off to Hakone for hot springs and sky-high views over Mount Fuji from a panoramic ropeway. See mysterious geishas in Kyoto's Gion district, enjoy a tea ceremony in Osaka, and end with the white-sand beaches, blue waters, and plentiful marine life of Okinawa.

See the history and culture of Japan with immersive tours of Osaka and more

Traditions of Japan: History, Art & Culture - 14 Days

This immersive 14-day cultural adventure starts in Osaka, where you'll sample renowned cuisine and stroll through ancient shrines. Take a day trip to Kobe for its coveted beef, then it's off to Mount Koya for quiet hikes and an overnight in a Buddhist temple. Eat your way through bustling Nishiki Market in Kyoto, learn Japanese arts and crafts in Kanazawa, see sweeping views of Mount Fuji, and end with the bright lights of Tokyo, touring the gardens of the Imperial Palace and Senso-ji temple.

Take in the views of majestic Mount Fuji with an overnight hike

Active Adventures in Japan: Mountains, Hot Springs & Temples - 14 Days

This exciting two-week tour of Japan starts in Tokyo, where you'll eat your way through local markets on a foodie tour and see some of the city's most iconic sights. Then, it's off to the wonders of Mount Fuji and an overnight on the Yoshida trail. Bike the streets of Takayama, walk through hallowed shrines and hike to majestic Zen temples in Kyoto, and shop till you drop in Osaka. Soak in the hot springs of Hongu's Otogawa River, then end on the Pacific coastlines of Kii Katsuura and the towering Nachi Falls.

Tuck into delicious Japanese noodles on a foodie tour throughout Japan

Foodie Tour Across Japan - 14 Days

Explore the culture, history, and delicious flavors of Japanese cuisine with this 14-day culinary adventure. You'll start in Osaka, touring the lively Dotonbori district for grilled crab, takoyaki, and taiyaki pastries. Eat your way through Kuromon Market and travel to Kobe for their coveted beef, then it's off to Kyoto for tea ceremonies and sake. Learn to make ramen noodles in Tokyo, enjoy beer tastings in Sapporo, and end in Hakodate, where you'll take an early morning market tour and try delectable donburi.

Spring in Japan: Okinawa, Tokyo, Yokohama, Kamakura & Mount Fuji - 8 Days

Discover the wonders of springtime in Japan on this eight-day tour. Follow the country's famous pink cherry blossoms as they bloom, traveling from the tropical island of Okinawa to the parks, shrines, and temples of Tokyo. Next, you'll discover prime cherry blossom viewpoints and historical landmarks in Yokohama and the ancient capital Kamakura, ending in Fujikawaguchiko for iconic views of Mount Fuji surrounded by pink-hued trees.

Visit the ancient aqueduct that passes through the temple grounds of Nanzen-ji in Kyoto's Higashiyama District

Tokyo, Kyoto & Hiroshima: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima spend about 11 to 15 days in Japan, which usually includes some time in Osaka and Hakone as well. If you're not interested in Osaka and Hakone, eight to 10 days is enough for your Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as six days or one week. Read on for the best itineraries, including Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and beyond.

Base your trip in Tokyo, Japan's exciting capital and one of the largest cities in the world

Tokyo: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Tokyo spend about 10 to 12 days total in Japan, which usually includes some time in Kyoto, Osaka, and Hakone as well. If you're only headed to Tokyo, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in four to five days. Check out our favorite Tokyo itinerary ideas below.

Walk through the ginko trees on Tokyo's Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue

Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima & Hakone: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Japan typically plan a trip for 11 to 15 days when combining Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Hakone with Osaka and Miyajima Island. If you're only headed to Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Hakone, you can enjoy a comfortably paced trip in 10 to 12 days. A fast-paced highlights trip is possible in eight or nine days for travelers with limited time. Check out our favorite Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Hakone trips below.

Start your hike in Magome, a historic post town along the Nakasendo Trail between Kyoto and Edo

The Nakasendo Trail: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers in Japan, a five-day trip is the perfect amount of time to experience the Nakasendo Trail, with stops in Tsumago, Kiso-Fukushima, Narai, and Karuizawa. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Tokyo and Kyoto. Keep reading for more inspiring Nakasendo Trail itineraries.

Visit the Cenotaph Memorial at Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park

Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & Hiroshima: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Japan typically plan a trip for 11 to 15 days when combining Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima with Hakone and Miyajima Island. For travelers wanting to visit Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima exclusively, plan 10 to 11 days for a well-paced trip. A fast-paced highlights trip is possible in a week to nine days for travelers with limited time. Check out our favorite Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima trips below.

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