Asia · country guide
Japan travel guide
6 cities, suggested multi-city routes, transport tips — plus a full planner for every destination.
Photo by Lucas Calloch on Unsplash
Japan's islands stretch from the subarctic north to the subtropical south, creating diverse climates and landscapes. Its rich history and deeply ingrained cultural practices offer a unique travel experience focused on meticulous attention to detail and profound respect.
Each city below links to a full planner: a day-by-day itinerary you can tailor to your dates and pace, a realistic budget breakdown, a packing list, day-trip ideas, a local food guide, and the best months to visit. If you're combining several Japan cities into one trip, the suggested routes group them by region and travel time so you spend less of the trip in transit — and each destination page carries its own accessibility, transport, and neighbourhood detail rather than recycled boilerplate.
Cities in Japan
6 destinations covered. Tap any to get a full itinerary, packing list, budget, and more.
Key regions
Kanto
The most populous region, centered around Tokyo. It offers a blend of hyper-modern cityscapes, historical sites, and nearby natural escapes.
Kansai
Japan's cultural heartland, home to ancient capitals like Kyoto and vibrant modern cities like Osaka. This region is rich in temples, shrines, and traditional arts.
Chubu
This central region boasts the Japanese Alps, historic towns like Kanazawa, and significant industrial centers. It provides a gateway to both natural beauty and traditional craftsmanship.
Hokkaido
Japan's northernmost main island, known for its vast national parks, volcanic landscapes, and excellent winter sports. Sapporo is its cultural and economic hub.
Chugoku
Located in western Honshu, this region includes Hiroshima, a city of peace and resilience, and offers coastal scenery and historical significance.
Suggested Japan routes
Golden Route & Beyond
12 days
Tokyo → Kanazawa → Kyoto → Osaka → Hiroshima
This classic itinerary covers Japan's most iconic destinations. Start in the bustling capital of Tokyo, then journey to the historic samurai district of Kanazawa, followed by the cultural treasures of Kyoto and the culinary delights of Osaka. Conclude with a poignant visit to Hiroshima.
Northern Charm: Hokkaido Explorer
7 days
Sapporo → Hakodate
Experience the natural beauty and unique culture of Japan's northernmost island. Explore the vibrant city of Sapporo, famous for its beer and snow festival, and then venture south to the scenic port town of Hakodate.
Kansai Deep Dive
8 days
Osaka → Kyoto → Nara → Kobe
Immerse yourself in the heart of traditional and modern Japanese culture. Discover the culinary scene and nightlife of Osaka, the ancient temples and gardens of Kyoto, the friendly deer of Nara, and the cosmopolitan port city of Kobe.
Getting around
The Shinkansen (bullet train) network is exceptionally efficient and covers most of the country, making intercity travel fast and comfortable. For longer distances or to reach more remote areas, domestic flights are a viable option. While rental cars are available, they are generally not recommended for travel within major cities due to complex road systems and parking challenges, though they can be useful for exploring rural regions.
Insider tips
- •While credit cards are increasingly accepted, carrying a reasonable amount of cash is essential for smaller establishments, rural areas, and some temple/shrine entrance fees.
- •Japan Rail Pass math: Calculate individual long-distance train fares before purchasing a JR Pass. It's often cost-effective for extensive travel but can be more expensive for shorter trips or if you only use non-JR lines.
- •Reservations are highly recommended for popular restaurants, themed cafes, and certain attractions, especially during peak seasons. Book well in advance.
- •Understand the etiquette for public transport: Avoid loud conversations, keep phone calls brief and quiet, and queue orderly for boarding.
- •Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds, though be aware of potential price increases around Golden Week and Obon.
- •Pocket Wi-Fi or a local SIM card is invaluable for navigation and real-time translation, as free public Wi-Fi can be spotty outside major hubs.