10 Days in Japan & China - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Highlights of Japan & China: Tokyo, Kyoto & Beijing

This highlights itinerary is perfect for first-time travelers to Japan and China seeking a well-rounded tour. Throughout, you'll gain a deeper understanding of each country's culture, cuisine, and history through guided tours and free time to roam independently. Notable highlights include a tea ceremony in Kyoto, a side trip to the Fuji Five Lakes Region, and a visit to the Great Wall of China. In addition, learn the secrets of grilling Wagyu beef in Tokyo and join a Peking duck dining experience in Beijing.

Welcome to Japan! Your adventure begins in Tokyo, and straight after refreshing at your hotel, you'll experience the city's chaotic yet orderly energy through a Shinjuku food tour. Then, check out iconic landmarks alongside a guide, including Tsukiji Outer Fish Market and Imperial Palace, before embarking on a scenic side trip to the Fuji Five Lakes Region. Following Tokyo, speed to Kyoto on a bullet train and be introduced to this culturally rich city through a tea ceremony. Afterward, hop between more of Kyoto's historical wonders on a self-guided tour featuring Nijo Castle and the Nishiki Market.

The second half of your trip kicks off with a detour to Nara, where you'll meet friendly, free-roaming deer and admire the detailed architecture of ancient Buddhist temples. Then, continue to Osaka, but don't get too comfortable, as the next morning, it's straight to the airport to board a flight bound for China's capital, Beijing. Upon arrival, settle in over a leisurely Peking duck experience, which will ensure you're ready to fill the following two days with fascinating tours and activities. Explore the UNESCO-listed Forbidden City, walk along the Great Wall of China, and visit a changling tomb before bidding farewell. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Culinary Discovery of Japan & China: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & Shanghai

While located a mere 2.5-hour flight from one another, the cuisines of Japan and China are a world apart, yet equally delightful—and this flavorful food tour ensures you experience the best of each. In Japan, admire the skill of expert sushi chefs, sample inventive matcha-flavored desserts, and discover why Osaka is the beloved "Kitchen of Japan." Then, hop over to Shanghai and try dishes that originated in the Ming and Qing dynasties, as well as modern-day street food delights. In between, walk off your indulgences through city tours and visits to historic castles and gardens.

Upon arriving in Tokyo, experience Japan's renowned food scene while tucking into tiny restaurants in the Shinjuku district and sampling whisky at the Fuji Gotemba Distillery. In between, embark on a side trip to Arakurayama Sengen Park to take in views of Mount Fuji, then continue by bullet train to Kyoto. With two days in this ancient city, you'll have time to attend a tea ceremony, explore city highlights, and discover Kyoto's regional food specialties at Nishiki Market. Afterward, set your sights on Osaka and spend your first afternoon here learning about the city's storied past at Osaka Castle.

Beyond its fascinating history, Osaka is also deemed the "Kitchen of Japan," and you'll soon discover why while tasting your way through the lively Shinsekai and Dotonbori districts. Yet, waiting across the East China Sea is Shanghai, which is also renowned for its flavorful cuisine. Kick off your stay here by sampling traditional benbang dishes, then break from the food excursions to wander among the city's historical and futuristic highlights. Lastly, stroll through the Humble Administrator's Garden and pop between Nanjing Road's street food stalls before catching your onward flight. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Japan & China Cultural Discovery Tour: Tokyo, Kyoto & Beijing

Discover Japan and China's intriguing blend of long-standing traditions and modern-day wonders on this immersive journey through Tokyo, Kyoto, and Beijing. Perfect for travelers seeking a slower-paced trip that focuses on unique cultural excursions, you can look forward to a mix of guided tours, insightful workshops, and free time to leisurely roam. Learn the techniques of samurai sword crafting, mingle with geisha, and visit iconic sites like the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Golden Pavilion.

Your cultural-infused adventure begins with three days in Tokyo, the first of which you'll spend exploring the Yanaka district alongside a guide. Then, join another guide-led excursion, this one to Meiji Jingu Shrine and the Tsukiji Outer Fish Market, before visiting the enchanting Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji on a day trip. Next, zip to Kyoto onboard a bullet train, and upon arrival, step directly from Japan's futuristic side into the traditional world of geisha culture. While in Kyoto, you'll also participate in a katana crafting workshop, browse Nishiki Market's colorful stalls, and explore the dreamy Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. 

After three incredible days of exploring Kyoto, it's time to trade ancient charm for the sprawling grandeur of China. Your destination is Beijing, and with four days here, you'll get an excellent introduction to the city's long history. Explore the finely decorated Forbidden City, join a traditional medicine workshop, and see for yourself the undeniably impressive Great Wall of China. In addition, pause in the Changping district to pay your respects to former emperors and empresses and visit the nature-immersed Summer Palace before returning to the airport to catch your departing flight. Learn more

Itinerary #4: Nature & Culture Tour of Japan & China: Tokyo, Kyoto, Beijing & Shanghai

Crafted especially for nature-loving travelers, this scenic trip features the awe-inspiring landscapes surrounding Mount Fuji, the Arashiyama District, and the Jinshanling Section of the Great Wall. In addition, delve into the storied history of Tokyo, Kyoto, Beijing, and Shanghai through guided city tours and pause to relax in gardens fit for royalty. After an immersive and action-packed four days in Japan and six days in China, you'll leave with a greater insight into each country's unique culture.

After arriving in Tokyo and refreshing at your accommodation, enjoy a free afternoon to explore at your leisure, perhaps conquering the famous Shibuya Crossing and taking in the greenery of Yoyogi Park. Then, pack a day bag and transfer to the Fuji Five Lakes Region, where a scenic cruise under Mount Fuji awaits. While in Tokyo, you'll also join a guided tour featuring shrines, temples, and skyscrapers before continuing to Kyoto. Wake early to make the most of your one full day here, in which you'll squeeze in visits to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Sogenchi Garden, and a park filled with cheeky macaques.

The second half of your journey is all about China, and your first stop is the capital city of Beijing. Three days here gives you plenty of time to experience the city's many wonders, including Wangfujing Street, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. Then, detour to the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall and stroll through the lush Summer Palace gardens before continuing to Shanghai. There's lots to do and see in this vibrant city, so join a guide to hop between stately buildings and enchanting gardens and enjoy a celebratory farewell dinner in the chic French Concession district. Learn more

More Great 10-Day Japan Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Japan? Check out these other 10-day Japan itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.

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