Custom Japan Trips

start planning your trip with a local travel specialist

Travelers love kimkim

- ., traveled to in

Japan Travel Insights

Walk amid giant bamboo trees in Kyoto's enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Map of 5 Days in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With five days to spend in Japan, you can focus your energy on the ultra-modern city of Tokyo. Or divide time between Tokyo and the more traditional Kyoto, visiting the country's most famous shrine. A more ambitious itinerary takes you to several cities, including Hiroshima and Osaka, while a simpler one centers on the culture and history of Kyoto. Alternatively, hike along the historic Nakasendo Trail, following the footsteps of feudal lords and samurai on the mountain path connecting Kyoto and Tokyo.

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 teahouses of Kyoto, and Hiroshima's memorials. Foodies and aspiring chefs will be delighted to craft noodles at a ramen factory, make (and eat!) sushi at the Tsukiji Outer Fish Market, and sample street eats in Osaka, while outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Hokkaido's volcanic landscapes or a trek along the Nakasendo Trail.

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. Foodies can feast on sushi, sample Osaka's street eats, and try their hand at making gyoza. Culture enthusiasts will appreciate a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto and an art tour of Naoshima island, while those eager to immerse in Japan's natural beauty can trek along the Nakesendo Trail, soak in natural hot springs, and bike Mount Aso.

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 Michelin-starred dining. Those seeking traditional Japan should not miss Honshu's historical treasures, while off-the-beaten-path explorers will find solace in Izumo and the Goto Islands. Meanwhile, active travelers can challenge themselves with a trek to Mount Fuji's peak.

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 action-packed four days in Japan to a leisurely three-week itinerary, here are some suggestions for making the most of your time in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Taiyu-in Temple in Nikko, just north of Tokyo, is beautiful during the fall season
Best Time of Year to Visit Japan

The best times to visit Japan are spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms and fall (September to November) for vibrant fall foliage, both offering pleasant weather and stunning scenery. Spring's sakura season is iconic, but autumn often feels less crowded and just as striking, with fiery colors across temples, mountains, and gardens. Winter (December to February) appeals to skiers and onsen lovers, while summer (June to August) brings lively festivals and hiking opportunities despite the heat.

How it works
Chat with specialist icon Step 1
Tell us what kind of trip you want
Complete our quick travel quiz
Chat icons Step 2
Chat with a local travel specialist
Work out the details together
Credit card icon Step 3
Securely book your trip
100% satisfaction guaranteed

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Japan
Travel specialist Shona Zhang
active 3 mins 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 Leny Vergara
active 55 mins ago

Leny Vergara

Hello! I'm Leny. Travel is my passion, and if you're anything like me, you believe the best adventures happen off the beaten path. Japan is the first country I lived in, and I fell in love with it....

read more...
Travel specialist Sandy Ren
active 4 mins 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 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...

Trip Reviews for Japan

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Great Cultural experience
Japan | Apr 28 - May 10, 2026

Ariana
Ariana L.
Puerto Rico | Reviewed on May 17, 2026
Ben was very attentive and filled our trip with multiple cultural and food experiences which was exactly what we were looking for. I feel like we had a good taste and view of traditional Japanese life! So happy with our recent travels, would recommend. Read more

Ben was very attentive and filled our trip with multiple cultural and food experiences which was exactly what we were looking for. I feel like we had a good taste and view of traditional Japanese life! So happy with our recent travels, would recommend.

Hotel Reviews
Centara Grand Hotel Osaka
Osaka

This Hotel is amazing! I regret not spending enough time here to enjoy it completely. We had a good dinner at the steak house restaurant and the views were amazing. Really enjoyed it.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dhawa Yura Kyoto
Kyoto

The location of this hotel was everything. Near Pontocho alley, shopping and Gion District. Nearby metro station. We really enjoyed the stay at Dhawa

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hakone Kowakien TEN-YU
Hakone

We came to this hotel on a very busy week since it was golden week. Very family oriented so if you are a young couple looking for a romantic escape this may not be the place. Still, the breakfast buffet was really good and our reservation included a Kaiseki dinner at a near by restaurant (they took us there in a shuttle bus from the hotel) It ended up being the best meal we had in our whole trip to Japan. Nice Japanese onsen experience.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel, A Pan Pacific Partner Hotel

Great Stay, staff is very friendly and professional. This hotel has amazing skyline views and a great location.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Tokyo’s Cultural Vibes & Cozy Evening: Temple, Sumo & Intimate Bar Escape
Tokyo’s Cultural Vibes & Cozy Evening: Temple, Sumo & Intimate Bar Escape
Tokyo

THis day was great! specially Centofilia Bare

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kyoto Cultural Immersion with Public Transportation: Sake, Torii Gates, Tea Ceremony & Hands-On Ramen Making
Kyoto Cultural Immersion with Public Transportation: Sake, Torii Gates, Tea Ceremony & Hands-On Ramen Making
Kyoto

This was one of my favorite days on the trip. I have to admit that a bit intense and we were very tired at the end of the day but amazing overall.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ben Tanaka
Ben
Ben Tanaka
Local specialist in Japan, China | Replied on May 18, 2026

Thank you so much for your lovely feedback! It means a lot to me. I’m truly glad that you fully enjoyed the Japanese culture and local delicacies, and experienced the authentic local life perfectly. I will definitely share your wonderful comments with our entire team. It’s my greatest pleasure to arrange a satisfying journey for you. Looking forward to welcoming you again in the near future!

Japan!
Japan | Mar 10 - Mar 23, 2026

Dawn
Dawn P.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on May 14, 2026

My husband and I contacted Shona with only a 5 week lead time on an improptu trip to Japan to spend time with our daughters. Shona did an outstanding job of arranging transport and guides who were not only well educated in Japan's history, but were also fun to talk to and spend the day with. Our guides expertly shared their knowledge of cultural icons, food, and helped us navigate lunches at restaurants.
KimKim receives two thumbs up and five stars from me and my family!!!

Local specialist: Shona Zhang
Shona
Shona Zhang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on May 15, 2026

Hi Ed and Dawn,
I want to sincerely thank you for your wonderful feedback. Your kindness, positive energy, cooperative spirit, and optimistic attitude towards others truly made working with you a joy. I have also learned so much from you throughout this journey.

It would be an honor if you choose KK as your first choice for your next trip. Please rest assured that my team and I will continue to strive even harder to provide you with the very best service and an unforgettable travel experience.

Thank you once again for your generosity and trust.

Warm regards,
Shona

An Unforgettable Japan Experience
Japan | Apr 19 - May 2, 2026

carlos
carlos d.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on May 14, 2026
Our first visit to Japan was absolutely incredible, and a huge part of that was thanks to Shona. She organized every detail of our trip so well, making the entire experience smooth, stress-free, and unforgettable. She was always easy to contact whenever we had questions, and her expertise and knowledge about Japan were clear from the very beginning. Thanks to her thoughtful planning, we were able to truly enjoy and experience the beauty, culture, and energy of Japan without worrying about... Read more

Our first visit to Japan was absolutely incredible, and a huge part of that was thanks to Shona. She organized every detail of our trip so well, making the entire experience smooth, stress-free, and unforgettable. She was always easy to contact whenever we had questions, and her expertise and knowledge about Japan were clear from the very beginning.

Thanks to her thoughtful planning, we were able to truly enjoy and experience the beauty, culture, and energy of Japan without worrying about logistics.

Thank you, Shona, and the Kim Kim team, for helping create such an amazing trip and memories we’ll always cherish! We will definitely be using Kim Kim on our next adventure.

Hotel Reviews
ANA InterContinental Ishigaki Resort By IHG
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cross Hotel Kyoto
Kyoto
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu
Hakone
Authenticity & Character
Location
O
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mitsui Garden Hotel Roppongi Tokyo Premier
Tokyo
Authenticity & Character
Location
Very central. Near many restaurants and stores.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
 Kabira Bay SUP/Canoe + Blue Cave Snorkeling
Kabira Bay SUP/Canoe + Blue Cave Snorkeling
Ishigaki
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day City Tour with  Osaka Castle
Full Day City Tour with Osaka Castle
Japan
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Garden Walking Tour (Join-in)
Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Garden Walking Tour (Join-in)
Kyoto
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half day Bonsai and Garden tour in Kyoto
Half day Bonsai and Garden tour in Kyoto
Kyoto
Quality of Experience
M
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kyoto City Tour with Nijo Castle and Fushimi-Inari Taisha
Kyoto City Tour with Nijo Castle and Fushimi-Inari Taisha
Kyoto
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
 Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
Kyoto
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
From Hakone to Kyoto
From Hakone to Kyoto
Japan
Quality of Experience
M
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Mt. Fuji with Lake Kawaguchi Cruise Tour
Full Day Mt. Fuji with Lake Kawaguchi Cruise Tour
Fujikawaguchiko
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tokyo City Tour with Tokyo Tower
Tokyo City Tour with Tokyo Tower
Tokyo
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Shona Zhang
Shona
Shona Zhang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on May 15, 2026

Hi Carlos and Kristen,
I want to sincerely thank you for your wonderful feedback. Your kindness, positive energy, cooperative spirit, and optimistic attitude towards others truly made working with you a joy. I have also learned so much from you throughout this journey.

It would be an honor if you choose KK as your first choice for your next trip. Please rest assured that my team and I will continue to strive even harder to provide you with the very best service and an unforgettable travel experience.

Thank you once again for your generosity and trust.

Warm regards,
Shona

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.