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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.

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.

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.

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
5.0
(7)
· Comfort
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
4.6
(5)
· Comfort
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
(2)
· Comfort
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

Finish your trip with a visit to Osaka Castle, dating back to the 16th century
Map of Best of Japan Family Tour: Toyko, Kyoto & Osaka - 8 Days
Best of Japan Family Tour: Toyko, Kyoto & Osaka - 8 Days

Get your first taste of Japan on this classic family-friendly tour, discovering its bustling cities, historic temples, and rich culture. Start in Tokyo, where you'll see the city via rickshaws and greet cosplayers in elaborate costumes at neon-lit Akihabara. Enjoy impressive views of Mount Fuji, then hop on a train to Kyoto to join a traditional tea ceremony and meet friendly deer in Nara. End in Osaka, where you'll sample street food in the Dotonbori district and ride to the top of the towering Umeda Sky Building.

Immerse yourself in the lively vibe of Myeong-dong shopping street in Seoul
Map of A Taste of Seoul & Japan's Golden Route -12 Days
A Taste of Seoul & Japan's Golden Route -12 Days

Get a taste of both South Korea and Japan during this 12-day highlights tour. Begin in Seoul, where you'll sample Korean street food, explore a palace in traditional Korean clothing, and shop in COEX Mall. Visit the border of North and South Korea before flying to Tokyo. Immerse yourself in this foodie haven, then take a day trip to soak in the views of Mount Fuji. Catch a train to Kyoto for a tea ceremony and ride a rickshaw through a bamboo forest before ending your trip exploring the lively streets of Osaka.

This family tour combines city tours and outdoor adventures—perfect for teens and tweens
Map of Japan for Teens & Tweens: History, Culture & Animé Fun  - 11 Days
Japan for Teens & Tweens: History, Culture & Animé Fun - 11 Days

Take your teens and tweens on an unforgettable Japanese adventure with this family-friendly tour. Start in Tokyo, where you'll see classic animé at the Ghibli Museum and ascend the towering observation deck of Shibuya SKY. Then, discover Mount Fuji and cruise across Hakone's Lake Ashinoko via pirate ship before continuing to Kyoto for geishas and castles. From there, bike through bamboo in Arashiyama, sample tasty treats in Osaka's neon-lit Dotonbori, and finish at Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park.

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 Ana Bicanic
active 8 hours ago

Ana Bicanic

Hi there! My name is Ana, I am 26 years old and I come from Belgrade, Serbia. Growing up I would travel a lot with my parents who love to dive. I knew from very early on that I want to be in...

read more...
Travel specialist Angel Tang
active 2 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 2 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 3 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...

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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

Wonderful Japan!
Japan | Sep 1 - Sep 15, 2024

R
Raquel M.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Sep 16, 2024
Had a wonderful time in Japan. Can't thank Elenor enough for a very thoughtful plan and for the extra support while on the trip.
Both our guides in Tokyo (Yumi) and Kyoto (Yuki) were delightful and very knowledgeable. Nara was a highlight as we loved the temples and the deer.
Read more

Had a wonderful time in Japan. Can't thank Elenor enough for a very thoughtful plan and for the extra support while on the trip.
Both our guides in Tokyo (Yumi) and Kyoto (Yuki) were delightful and very knowledgeable. Nara was a highlight as we loved the temples and the deer.

Hotel Review
Cross Hotel Kyoto
Kyoto

Spacious and nice room in great location

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Eleanor Chen
Eleanor
Eleanor Chen
Local specialist in Japan and China | Replied on Sep 16, 2024

Hi Raquel,

Hope you are doing great and thank you for all the kind words!

Your positive feedback makes my day even more lovely :) I'm sure Yumi & Yuki will be thrilled to hear your compliment, and it's so great that Japan, especially Nara, could offer you a wonderful time!

Looking forward to helping you with an unforgettable trip to Japan again to discover more about this beautiful country!

Have a nice day,
Eleanor

It's just perfect.
Japan | Sep 3 - Sep 13, 2024

Doug
Doug N.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Sep 15, 2024
First off, Sandy is amazing. From the first day of planning to the end of the trip, she's always there with us. She answered all our (4 of us) questions. And is always one step ahead of our trip. She had always informed us 1 day ahead as who is our driver or who is our local guide, and what to do next. When we contacted her for a little hiccup, she and her team immediately jumped on it to resolve the situation. (BTW, the hiccup was from the other place booking, not... Read more

First off, Sandy is amazing. From the first day of planning to the end of the trip, she's always there with us. She answered all our (4 of us) questions. And is always one step ahead of our trip. She had always informed us 1 day ahead as who is our driver or who is our local guide, and what to do next. When we contacted her for a little hiccup, she and her team immediately jumped on it to resolve the situation. (BTW, the hiccup was from the other place booking, not Kimkim).

Jennifer, Fiona, Mike, Jade, and Micky are flexible and knowing their locals well. Drivers are on time. We like Hotel at Kyoto and Osaka best. La Valse at Busan has a very nice view, but the room is not too functional due to a not useful countertop. So it's just ok. All hotels are very clean btw.

All in all, I'm glad I found Kimkim and more so when having Sandy as our specialist. We'll look for Kimkim for our next trip, and hopefully we got Sandy again. And for sure, I'll share our experience about kimkim with our friends.

Thanks for wonderful memory.

Hotel Reviews
NINE TREE PREMIER HOTEL MYEONGDONG II
Seoul

Good lobby, room is ok but one annoying thing is about the motion detection light. I would like to have an option to use it or now. At night if you have to go to the bath room, this light will be wake you up or your partner up.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
I had to leave at 7:00am at the same time, the buffet would just got open. The staff ordered our breakfast packed for us the night before. And actually they were ready before 7:00am. This is great.
Cleanliness & Comfort
annoying night motion detection light
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Ginza PREMIER
Tokyo

Location is good but the lobby is so tiny. Room is clean but ok. I'm ok to stay here next time.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cross Hotel Kyoto
Kyoto

Best hotel chain for my trip. Both lobby and room are nice and roomy. I would love to stay here next time.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cross Hotel Osaka
Osaka

Best hotel chain for my trip. Both lobby and room are nice and roomy. I would love to stay here next time.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lavalse Hotel

The view is amazing. But the room has the countertop (like kitchen countertop) which take up a lot of room. I would trade the view for the more functional room.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Great view.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
clean but not comfy due to the countertop takes up a big chunk of real estate.
Activity Review
Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai
Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai
Osaka

I was really looking forward to experiencing the local food in Osaka, but honestly, it didn’t live up to my expectations. Maybe it’s because I’ve had amazing street food in places like Thailand and Vietnam, which are hard to beat.

Local specialist: Sandy Ren

Angel was really helpful on several last-minu...
Japan | Sep 5 - Sep 13, 2024

D
Daniel J.
South Salt Lake, UT | Reviewed on Sep 13, 2024
Angel was really helpful on several last-minute requests. The Kyoto guide was very knowledgeable. Marlene’s tour in Tokyo not so great, big language barrier and not a lot of interaction. Fuji Mt. Guides were terrific. Upgraded hotel room this week also terrific. Overall, I felt we got great value for money spent on this tour. Read more

Angel was really helpful on several last-minute requests. The Kyoto guide was very knowledgeable. Marlene’s tour in Tokyo not so great, big language barrier and not a lot of interaction. Fuji Mt. Guides were terrific. Upgraded hotel room this week also terrific. Overall, I felt we got great value for money spent on this tour.

Hotel Review
Mitsui Garden Hotel Jingugaien Tokyo Premier
Tokyo
Activity Reviews
Hiking the Mt. Fuji SubashiriTrail (Jul-Aug)-Day 2
Hiking the Mt. Fuji SubashiriTrail (Jul-Aug)-Day 2
Japan
Hiking the Mt. Fuji SubashiriTrail (Jul-Aug)-Day 1
Hiking the Mt. Fuji SubashiriTrail (Jul-Aug)-Day 1
Japan
Half Day Imperial Palace East Gardens and Senso-ji Tour
Half Day Imperial Palace East Gardens and Senso-ji Tour
Tokyo
Sightseeing in Arashiyama - Boat Ride and Bamboo Grove
Sightseeing in Arashiyama - Boat Ride and Bamboo Grove
Kyoto
 Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
Kyoto
Local specialist: Angel Tang