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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
4.9
(10)
· 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
(8)
· 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
(3)
· 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

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 5 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 5 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 5 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...
Travel specialist Eleanor Chen
active 5 hours 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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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

Japan 2024
Japan | Dec 1 - Dec 22, 2024

Art
Art D.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Dec 23, 2024
My wife Liz and I just returned from 18 fantastic days in Japan. We couldn’t be happier with our experience. We visited Tokyo, Hikone, Takayama, Shirakawa-go, Kanazawa and Kyoto. Every city had its own character, charm, and allure. We saw the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, but also the hidden gems like the Lion Cafe, and the wonderful TeamLab Borderless exhibit. We had Onsen in Hikone and stayed in a traditional inn with glorious traditional meals. In Takayama and Kanazawa we experienced the old... Read more

My wife Liz and I just returned from 18 fantastic days in Japan. We couldn’t be happier with our experience. We visited Tokyo, Hikone, Takayama, Shirakawa-go, Kanazawa and Kyoto. Every city had its own character, charm, and allure. We saw the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, but also the hidden gems like the Lion Cafe, and the wonderful TeamLab Borderless exhibit. We had Onsen in Hikone and stayed in a traditional inn with glorious traditional meals. In Takayama and Kanazawa we experienced the old historic districts with wooden buildings, quaint Restuarant’s and lots of charm. Shurakawa-go was a treat with the old thatched room houses, snow on the ground and views of the Japan Alps. Kyoto was a cultural treat— we enjoyed the tea ceremony, the Maiko performance, and of course the sake tour and tasting. Overall we had a trip to remember and we couldn’t be happier. This review only hints at the great sights and experiences we had but we are overjoyed with the trip.
In planning our trip we got so much assistance and advice from Kimkim and especially our specialist Sandy. We would not have had anywhere near the experience we did without the wonderful Sandy,. We went through several versions of itineraries and sights-to-see with Sandy. She listened to what we wanted and made all the arrangements. We enjoy a mix of days with guides and days on our own to explore. Sandy made this happen and the guides she arranged were all lovely people, so full of energy and charm, and completely aware of all the history and the lesser known places to see. Sandy made train arrangements and car transportation set up when we needed it. The car transfer from Tokyo to Hakone was great because we stopped by the lake near Mt Fuji and took the boat across the lake for wonderful Fuji views,
Overall it’s five star review for Kimkim and Sandy. (I’d give more stars if I could). Liz and I had a super trip and couldn’t be happier. Happy travels to all who read this review. Best regards from Art in USA.

Hotel Review
Hakone Hotel Kajikaso
Hakone

The Hakone Hotel Kajikaso was wonderful. It is a traditional Japanese inn and a modern hotel combined, The onsen baths were wonderful and the traditional meals were so fun and delicious. The room was a futon bed experience and the beds were very comfortable. The town is love,y and the whole experience was quite memorable.

Authenticity & Character
Don’t miss the Mont Blanc dessert shop
Location
Near the old section of town, lots to see and good shopping
Staff
So friend,y and supportive
Cleanliness & Comfort
The onsen baths were extremely clean and enjoyable
Activity Review
Hakone exploration : Mishima Skywalk , The shores of Lake Ashi and Onshi-Hakone Park
Hakone exploration : Mishima Skywalk , The shores of Lake Ashi and Onshi-Hakone Park
Hakone

Loved the views and close feel to the natural landscape. The pirate ship ferry boat tour on the lake was amazing!

Quality of Experience
Beautiful natural surroundings
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Mr Tony was super, lovely personality.
Transport
Nice vehicle, vert comfortable
Local specialist: Sandy Ren

I went into kimkim and my local specialist Sh...
Japan | Dec 5 - Dec 18, 2024

M
Meredith F.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Dec 22, 2024
I went into kimkim and my local specialist Shona blind. I researched the site, hedged my bets, and took a plunge I'm forever grateful for. Shona helped me customize my trip to meet my interests and fit my travel style (experienced solo traveller, massive nerd). She answered all my questions and was wonderful to work with. The guides I met throughout my trip were really special people: Yumi, Takehiko, Tomoko, thank you so much! I loved getting to see Japan as a guest with locals giving me... Read more

I went into kimkim and my local specialist Shona blind. I researched the site, hedged my bets, and took a plunge I'm forever grateful for. Shona helped me customize my trip to meet my interests and fit my travel style (experienced solo traveller, massive nerd). She answered all my questions and was wonderful to work with. The guides I met throughout my trip were really special people: Yumi, Takehiko, Tomoko, thank you so much! I loved getting to see Japan as a guest with locals giving me invaluable insight. I am so honored to have had this experience, and the next time I venture across the Pacific, I will absolutely use kimkim and Shona again.

Hotel Review
Shiba Park Hotel
Tokyo

Very cool book-loving boutique hotel in a quiet neighborhood that's still in easy walking distance of convenience stores and public transportation. Great breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Their theme is books: every floor features mini libraries and guests are encouraged to peruse all the different selections to find something to take back to their room.
Location
Minato, Tokyo
Staff
Very polite and helpful!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Half Day Samurai Ninja Museum and Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
Half Day Samurai Ninja Museum and Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
Kyoto

It's obviously a thing for tourists, but at no point did I feel like I was infringing on Japanese cultural practices. Rather I felt welcomed to share, learn, and participate in a respectful environment. Also, wearing a kimono is just cool.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Shona Zhang

Excellent! We shopped around for our recent v...
Japan | Nov 19 - Dec 4, 2024

Tony
Tony C.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Dec 08, 2024
Excellent! We shopped around for our recent vacation to Japan and got multiple quotes from various companies. They weren’t the cheapest or the most expensive and I was actually a bit reluctant since the price was very reasonable. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by the service and the accommodations they selected as well as the excursions selected. Angel was excellent, she listened and expertly tailored our trip to our needs. Her knowledge gave us ample time to transfer to our next... Read more

Excellent! We shopped around for our recent vacation to Japan and got multiple quotes from various companies. They weren’t the cheapest or the most expensive and I was actually a bit reluctant since the price was very reasonable. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by the service and the accommodations they selected as well as the excursions selected. Angel was excellent, she listened and expertly tailored our trip to our needs. Her knowledge gave us ample time to transfer to our next destination and with very little effort. She was reasonably available when needed or had any questions. There was also an emergency contact to the company is anything should come up. We are definitely using them again for our next vacation. Kim Kim made our vacation amazing and stressless, as a vacation should be. Thank you KimKim and Angel for a wonderful trip.

The only cons are that the prices are not transparent nor is a breakdown given. The price was very reasonable so it didn’t matter so much. At times if you have an urgent question it may take a while to get back. They got back to us on every occasion though and answered any question we had. As first time travelers to Japan we were a bit confused with the surroundings but with a little time and effort we were able to figure it out on our own so most of the questions were just panic being in a foreign environment.

Local specialist: Angel Tang
Angel
Angel Tang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Dec 10, 2024

Dear Tony,

Hope you are doing fantastic.Thank you so much for your detailed and thoughtful review. We're thrilled to hear that you had such a wonderful experience with Kimkim during your trip to Japan. It's great to know that I was able to tailor your itinerary to meet your needs and that you found the accommodations and excursions satisfactory. We're delighted that you felt supported throughout your journey, especially as first-time travelers. We look forward to assisting you with your next vacation and helping you create even more amazing memories.

Warm regards from Asia,
Angel