From vibrant cities to regional landscapes, find your Japan.
Consider your time, season and interests together. Choose a few places where you really want to stay, then connect them into a route. You will enjoy more by spending time in each place than by squeezing in too many cities.
A first-timer’s introduction to Japan’s regions.
Tokyo | Neighbourhoods and city life
Tokyo is vast, so plan by neighbourhood: Asakusa and Ueno, Shibuya and Harajuku, or Marunouchi and Ginza each have a different feel. Focus on one or two nearby areas per day.
Suggested stay:3–5 nights, with optional day trips based on your interests.
Hakone and Mount Fuji | Lakes, mountains and onsen
A nature break between Tokyo and Kansai. Weather affects the views, so do not build the trip around a single viewpoint. Plan local transport in Hakone around the places you actually want to visit.
Suggested stay:1–2 nights, depending on transport and accommodation.
Kyoto | Heritage and seasonal scenery
Temples, gardens, traditional streets and modern life meet in Kyoto. Start early in popular areas, explore one district at a time, and leave room for walks and meals.
Suggested stay:3–4 nights, or longer if you enjoy culture at a slower pace.
Nara | Temples, museums and parkland
Nara works well as a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka. Beyond Nara Park, choose from temples, museums and quieter streets according to your interests.
Suggested stay:One day, or stay overnight for a slower visit.
Osaka | Street food and city nights
Known for food, shopping and urban energy, Osaka also makes a useful base for Kansai. Give different districts their own time instead of crossing the whole city in one day.
Suggested stay:2–3 nights, with separate day trips to Nara, Kobe or elsewhere.
Hiroshima and Miyajima | Remembrance and island scenery
Allow generous time for Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, and consider a separate day for Miyajima. Check journey times and services when travelling to or from Kansai.
Suggested stay:At least 2 nights to avoid a rushed round trip.
Give regional Japan the time it deserves.
If you have visited before or have more than two weeks, consider Kanazawa and Hokuriku, Hida Takayama, the Japanese Alps, Kyushu’s onsen and volcanic scenery, rural Tohoku or Hokkaido’s landscapes. Transport, seasons and weather vary greatly, so check travel times and local services before adding a region.
Choose the three places where you most want to stay.
Once you have your priorities, check whether your arrival and departure airports, intercity journeys and hotel nights fit together.