How Many Days to Spend in Japan Is Enough

When you first visit Japan, you might already have some ideal destinations in your mind. But it's hard to decide where to go and how long to stay. Are 7 days enough? Is a 2-week period too long? From the vibrant city of Tokyo, showcasing classic Japan, to ancient Kyoto, capturing its rich history. Here, we offer you professional advice to help you plan your dream Japan tour.

How Many Day Is Ideal for a Japan Tour

To make the most of your journey in Japan, we recommend staying around 10-14 days to experience both the country's beautiful scenery and rich culture. Depending on your interests and the purpose of your visit, you can stay for 2-3 days to get a brief overview of a single city. However, since Japan is a charming country with so many things to see and do, it is never too long to stay.

• A week-long journey is more suitable for a quick sightseeing tour around Tokyo, including a day trip to Mt. Fuji and a cozy hot spring night in Hakone. Although it is not impossible, it would be a bit rushed to travel through Japan's Golden Triangle, especially for family visitors with kids or seniors.
• A Japan tour of about 10 days is more suitable for most travelers. It is enough for first-time visitors to capture the highlights of classic Japan in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, with extra time for nearby free days in Nara, Kobe, and Himeji. Also, an ideal duration for your second journey to explore somewhere further, like the Kyushu or Hokkaido regions.
• While with more places you would like to visit beyond central Japan, like Hiroshima, Sendai, or Aomori, plan your 14-day itinerary to cover the details and niche attractions that Japan has to offer.

2-3 Days in Japan

Though Japan is not that suitable for a short visit, when you only have a few days to spend in Japan for 2-3 days, we recommend focusing on your landing place, like Tokyo or Osaka.

If you're a first-timer, Tokyo is the destination you cannot miss. This world-famous metropolis offers a wide range of activities to enjoy, such as Shibuya, Harajuku, and Ginza, to capture the trendy side of Tokyo, or visit the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace and Sensoji Shrine to feel the traditional side.

On the other hand, Osaka is also a suitable starting point for a short trip. With two international airports, you can easily drop off in Osaka for a weekend trip. From enjoying the lively atmosphere of Dotonbori's evening, treat yourself to an Osaka food feast, to marvel at the view from Abeno Harukas. If you have more days available, take the Shinkansen from Osaka to Kobe, Nara, and Kyoto (within 1 hour) to see more of Japan.

Night View of Shibuya, Tokyo

One Week in Japan

Spend one week in Japan might not be a long time, but it's just the right amount of time to explore 2 or 3 destinations to take a glimpse of the culture, architecture, and food of Japan.

On your 7-day Japan itinerary, you can dig into popular cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, and feel free to visit surrounding areas like Osaka, Hakone, and Mount Fuji together by Shinkansen. Recommended route for your reference: Tokyo (2-3 days) → Mt.Fuji (0.5-1 day) → Kyoto (2-3 days) → Osaka/Tokyo (1-2days)

You can spend 2 days exploring Tokyo, with a day trip to Mt. Fuji or Hakone for the soothing hot springs and leisurely cruise, before heading to Kyoto for your next 2 to 3-day journey. Kyoto's extensive transportation system makes it easy to experience the charm of the ancient capital and travel around the city. During your visit, you can explore the Arashiyama district, which is home to the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Togetsukyo Bridge, one of the best places to admire the spring cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.

On your 6th day, it is recommended to return to Tokyo for your better departure arrangement. While looking for more to experience, Osaka will be a more convenient base for your extra day trip. You can extend your food tour in Kobe, with world-class sake to pair with the delicious beef for an amazing tasting sensation. Or continue westward to Himeji, where to capture its iconic white castle.

10 Days in Japan

With a plethora of things to do and see, spending 10 days in Japan will give you enough time to visit different areas at a relaxed pace and experience a wide range of cultural activities.

You can visit the big four: the buzzing Tokyo, traditional Kyoto, the trendy Osaka, and the place where post-war sites and Itsukushima Shrine lie, Hiroshima, for the urban city lights and crowds.

The Japan 10-day itinerary can be arranged like: Tokyo (2-3 days) → Mt.Fuji (0.5-1 day) → Kanazawa/Kamakura (1-2 days) → Kyoto (2-3 days) → Hiroshima (1-2 days) → Osaka (1-2days) 

Kanazawa is also a city you can add to your Japan travel itinerary in 10 days, where you can learn about the charm of the Edo period of Japan. Under the name of UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art, you can see well-preserved Edo-era districts, art museums, and regional handicrafts.

If you are interested in attending Japan's festivals, consider visiting Takayama during the annual Takayama festival. It takes place in both spring and autumn and basically has the same contents; you can see the festival floats displayed on the streets, Karakuri dance performances, and the Mikoshi procession. You can go to Kamakura to experience the splendid fireworks festival and traditional tea ceremony if you plan to visit in the summer.

Traveling with family members? Consider adding Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios of Japan in Osaka, both of which offer a wide range of activities suitable for adults and children of all ages.

Two Weeks in Japan

While Japan's big cities and popular destinations have much to offer, this country also boasts many off-the-beaten-track destinations waiting to be discovered. The two weeks spent are ample time to discover this side of Japan.

Close to Tokyo, Nikko is a perfect place for a day trip. As one of the most important religious centers in Japan, it offers cultural and natural activities. Besides the Shrines and temples, going hiking to see a variety of landscapes is more suitable for frequent visitors.

Besides mid-Japan, why not go further to other parts of Japan? One such destination is Akita, located in the northeast. Surrounded by mountains, it's good for both skiing in winter and observing cherry blossoms in spring. Art lovers can go to the Akita Museum of Art to admire art pieces and get away from the crowds.

On a 90-minute flight from Tokyo, you can reach Sapporo, where the famous Sapporo snow festival takes place. By serving several powder slopes and abundant après-ski activities, Sapporo shows the true style of an urban ski destination as well.

On the shoreline of Japan stands the hidden gem city of Fukuoka. Fukuoka's most famous attraction is the Danzaifu Tanmangu, but the watersports and world-class seafood can surely leave a strong impression.

For an experience of a small city vibe in Japan, head to Onomichi in the West. There, you can enjoy a cycling route called Shimanami Kaido and visit local markets and Japanese pubs to discover an alternative side of Japan.

Finally, for your beach vacation, Okinawa in the south is a good choice. Beaches, coral reefs, whale watching, dragon boat race, rare flora and fauna, you'll fall in love with this sub-tropical island instantly.

More Days to Combine Neighboring Countries

While Japan alone boasts stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences that keep you occupied for weeks, combining different Asian countries can add more vibrancy to your journey. Among various Asian countries, Korea and China are two destinations that we recommend due to their proximity, cultural connection, and unique attractions.

If you're already in Japan, why not extend your trip to South Korea or make it a stopover on your way to Japan? Flights between Japan and Korea are quick and affordable. Korea is a beautiful Asia country that has a lot to offer in terms of experiences and sightseeing. Feel the heartbeat of Korea by exploring its bustling capital, Seoul, and historical sites, along with vibrant night markets. Then, take the KTX train to Gyeongju to discover the charm of a "museum with walls".

Meanwhile, as the neighboring country boasts amazing travel experiences, China is definitely worth adding to your trip. If you have never been to China, Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an are good options for a quick glimpse into Chinese history and culture. As they are a wonderful blend of modernity and tradition and offer a deep insight into China's history. For your trip to Japan, you can choose to visit the main highlights of the country, go on a food tour, or simply visit destinations you are interested in at a slow pace.

Contact Us to Create Your Dreamy Japan Tour

In the land where ancient traditions and modern technology blend seamlessly, there is no shortage of things to do. Immerse yourself in the attractive culture, unique architecture, and mouth-watering food of Japan with our guide to help you plan your trip. Craving for a tailor-made trip just for you? Get in touch with our travel experts and create your own itinerary!