Choose an itinerary for your time, not a race through a checklist.
From a one-region trip of less than a week to a classic two-week route or a longer journey through regional Japan, choose an itinerary that fits your time off, flights and pace.
Decide how long you have before counting destinations.
| Time available | Planning approach | Example route |
|---|---|---|
| 7–9 days | Focus on one main region and limit long-distance transfers and hotel changes. | Use Tokyo as a base for nearby trips, or stay in Kyoto or Osaka to explore Kansai. |
| 10–14 days | Follow a classic Tokyo and Kansai route, perhaps adding an onsen or a regional stop if your pace allows. | Tokyo → Hakone (optional) → Kyoto → Osaka; add Hiroshima only after checking travel time and your departure airport. |
| 15 days | Add Hiroshima and Miyajima to the classic route and leave a buffer before departure. | Tokyo 4 nights → Hakone 1 → Kyoto 4 → Osaka 2 → Hiroshima 2 → Osaka 1. |
| 16–20 days | Add a regional stay of several nights rather than more quick city stops. | Extend the classic route into Hokuriku and Takayama, Kyushu, Hokkaido or another region. |
The Japan National Tourism Organization also suggests using one base for trips of up to a week, while roughly 10 days to two weeks can suit the classic Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka route. Adapt either approach to your flights and season.
A 15-day journey from Tokyo to Hiroshima.
This route connects Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima. The arrival day is kept light, and a final night in Osaka avoids a long intercity journey on the day of your international flight.
- Tokyo: neighbourhoods, gardens and diverse culture.
- Hakone: onsen and nature, with room to adapt to the weather.
- Kyoto, Nara and Osaka: Kansai history, food and city life.
- Hiroshima and Miyajima: history and island scenery.
The same places can be enjoyed at different speeds.
First-time visitors
Begin with Tokyo and Kansai, and keep each day geographically focused while you get used to local transport.
Families
Limit luggage moves and early or late train journeys. Consider lifts, walking distances, breaks and age-appropriate activities.
Returning travellers
Spend more time in smaller towns, onsen, nature trails or seasonal experiences instead of repeating city sights.
Explore the full 15-day route.
Review each day, overnight stop and travel pace, then decide what you would change.