Itineraries
How to shape a Japan route rather than follow one: which cities, in what order, and what a second trip looks like once the classics are done.
How to Plan Your First Japan Itinerary (Step by Step)
Planning your first trip to Japan? Here's a step-by-step guide to building an itinerary that fits your time, avoids rookie mistakes, and flows.
Japan in 7 Days: The First-Timer Route (Tokyo + Kyoto)
A complete 7-day Japan itinerary for first-time American visitors — Tokyo, a day trip, the bullet train to Kyoto, and Nara. Day by day, with what to book.
1 Week in Japan: The Perfect First-Timer Itinerary
Seven days is enough for a superb first trip. Here's a day-by-day 1-week Japan itinerary covering Tokyo, Kyoto, and easy day trips.
5 Days in Japan: A Short-Trip Itinerary
Only have five days in Japan? Here's how to make the most of a short trip — focused on Tokyo and Kyoto, with no wasted time.
10 Days in Japan: The Ideal Itinerary
Ten days is arguably the sweet spot for Japan. Here's a day-by-day itinerary adding Osaka, Hakone, and Nara to the Tokyo–Kyoto core.
2 Weeks in Japan: A Comprehensive Itinerary
Two weeks lets you go beyond the basics. Here's a 14-day Japan itinerary adding Hiroshima, Miyajima, and more to the classic route.
3 Weeks in Japan: The Extended Itinerary
Three weeks in Japan opens up the whole country. Here's how to extend beyond the classics to Kanazawa, the Alps, Koyasan, and further afield.
Japan Itinerary Ideas: How to Plan Your Route
Not sure how to structure your Japan trip? Here are itinerary ideas by trip length and interest, with the principles that make any route work.
Beyond the Basics: A Second-Trip Japan Itinerary
Already done Tokyo and Kyoto? Here's where to go on a second trip to Japan — the regions, towns, and experiences beyond the first-timer trail.