Photo by Kyle Opitz
With Japan‘s rich culture, stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, the itinerary options are endless. A quick trip might focus on Tokyo, Hakone and Kyoto. All of these can be customized based on your preferences, time constraints and budget.
Enhance your journey with expert support: DavidTravel can arrange the best guides, drivers and public transportation escorts to ensure seamless travel. For the ultimate experience, consider having a dedicated DavidTravel expert accompany you throughout your journey, providing insider access, expert knowledge and tailored support to ensure an exceptional, wealthy and carefree travel experience.
Photo by Kyle Opitz
Photo by Kyle Opitz
Japan offers diverse experiences, from relaxing onsen (hot springs) retreats and ultra-luxury beach resorts to action-packed adventures and top-notch ski resorts. You can choose from traditional ryokans (inns) or modern city hotels and attend or participate in traditional activities like sushi-making and sumo wrestling.
From sushi and sashimi to tempura, ramen and kaiseki, Japan‘s culinary landscape is diverse and exciting. To fully experience this rich culinary heritage, I recommend making your trip a culinary adventure, exploring local food markets and savoring the unique flavors of each region.
Japan is a paradise for kids, perfectly blending traditional and contemporary attractions. Kids aged 8-16 and travelers of all ages should consider visiting the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo, which is dedicated to Studio Ghibli’s animation works and its founder, Hayao Miyazaki.
Explore TeamLab Borderless Azabudai in Tokyo, an immersive digital art museum featuring stunning interactive installations. Family-friendly activities include interactive experiences like the Tokyo National Museum‘s hands-on exhibits and the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan’s marine life encounters. Many ryokans offer kid-friendly activities like traditional tea ceremonies, calligraphy classes, kimono dressing and sword drawing Iaido lessons. Japan‘s vibrant cities and rich culture provide endless opportunities for kids to learn, explore and have fun.
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Photo courtesy of Park Hyatt Kyoto.
Photo by Kyle Opitz
Tokyo
I suggest that your journey begin and/or end in Tokyo, a city that embodies Japan‘s fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. Explore the city’s ICONIC landmarks, such as the Tokyo Tower and the Meiji Shrine, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of districts like Shinjuku, Shibuya and Harajuku. Wander around the Tsukiji Outer Market to sample the freshest sushi and seafood and stroll through the beautiful, tranquil Hamarikyu Gardens.
DavidTravel insider tip: Dine and stay at Auberge Tokito in the suburbs.
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Nikko
From Tokyo, take a day trip to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nikko is famous for its ornate temples and shrines, including the Tōshogū Shrine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate (the Japanese military government).
Hakone
Travel to Hakone, famous for its natural hot springs, open-air art museum, scenic lake cruises, and stunning views of Mt. Fuji. Enjoy its picturesque landscapes, charming hiking trails and historic sites like the Hakone Ropeway and Owakudani Valley.
Kamakura
En route to Hakone, stop in Kamakura, a beautiful coastal town with a rich cultural heritage. Visit the ICONIC bronze Great Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple, a symbol of Kamakura. If the timing is right in April/May, visit the peony flower garden at the Engaku-ji Temple. A favorite photo of myself was taken in this garden next to a peony bloom; it was larger than my head!
Photo courtesy of Aman Kyoto
Takayama
Your journey continues in Takayama, a picturesque town in the Japanese Alps, known for its well-preserved Edo period (1603-1867) architecture, traditional shops and delicious local cuisine. Sample native specialties such as Hida beef and Takayama ramen. Be sure to check out Takayama Jinya, Sanmachi Suji, the Kusakabe Folk Museum, sake breweries and the nearby UNESCO World Heritage village, Shirakawa-go.
Kanazawa
From Takayama, travel to Kanazawa, a city on the west coast steeped in history, with its well-preserved Edo period architecture and serene gardens. Visit the Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan‘s Three Great Gardens, and explore the Higashi Chaya District, a historic area with many traditional teahouses.
Photo by Michael Berman
Kyoto
Next, visit Kyoto, Japan‘s cultural and spiritual hub. [For a future visit to Japan, consider spending a few weeks in Kyoto.]
Explore Kyoto’s UNESCO World Heritage temples and shrines, such as Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, Sanjusangendo Temple and Ginkaku-ji Temple. Visit Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the emperor’s former residence.
Wander through Kyoto’s charming districts, including the Gion district, famous for its geisha culture and the Nishiki market, a narrow shopping street lined with local food stalls and shops. Take a stroll along the Philosopher’s Path, a scenic walking path lined with cherry blossom trees and explore the narrow alleyways of Pontocho.
Photo by Kyle Opitz
Kyoto Tower offers panoramic views of the city. While many tourists flock to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, consider visiting a lesser-known alternative, such as Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple’s Bamboo Grove and a DavidTravel hidden gem: a small, secluded, tranquil bamboo forest oasis in the center of Kyoto.
Nara Prefecture
From Kyoto, embark on an active day trip to Nara Prefecture and hike to the summit of Mt. Miwa, a sacred mountain considered a power spot of spiritual energy in Japan. Surrounded by lush forests, it offers breathtaking views of the countryside. At the summit is Miwa Shrine, one of Japan‘s oldest shrines, where the revered Shinto deity, Omononushi, is worshipped. Before returning to Kyoto, visit Asuka Village with its historical sites, temples and shrines.
Photo by Kyle Opitz
Photo by Kyle Opitz
Naoshima
Your journey continues on the island of Naoshima, famous for its modern art museums, sculptures, and installations. Visit the Benesse House, a museum and hotel designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando that seamlessly integrates art, architecture and nature.
View the museum’s impressive collection of contemporary art, featuring works by artists such as Claude Monet, Walter De Maria and Yayoi Kusama. Beyond Benesse House, explore the island’s numerous art installations, scenic coastline, beaches and traditional villages. Next, take a ferry to Teshima and Inujima, two smaller islands in the Seto Inland Sea, known for their innovative art installations and scenic landscapes.
Kurashiki
From Naoshima, check out Kurashiki, a gem in western Japan where time stands still. This enchanting town boasts an exceptionally preserved Edo period streetscape, with traditional wooden warehouses, quaint shops and a serene canal that whispers tales of the past. Enjoy a stroll through the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter.
Photo courtesy of Amanemu
Photo by Kyle Opitz
Osaka & Hiroshima
Finally, travel to Osaka, a vibrant city in western Japan known for its food, entertainment and nightlife. Consider a day trip from Osaka to visit Hiroshima, a city known for its somber history.
Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a park dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945 and explore the museum within the park, which serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating consequences of war. Take a ferry to Miyajima Island, famous for its scenic beauty and historic landmarks, including the famous Itsukushima Shrine, which appears to be floating during high tide.
As you conclude your journey through Japan, I am confident you will have experienced the country’s renowned hospitality, “Omotenashi,” which embodies the Japanese values of respect, kindness and generosity towards guests.
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SAMPLE ITINERARY
A “Best of the Best” recommended itinerary:
Shorter options: The duration and itinerary for your stay can be customized to fit your timeline and preferences.
6 – 8 nights in Tokyo
Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills, Bulgari Hotel Tokyo, Conrad Tokyo, Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi, Grand Hyatt Tokyo (great value and location), Janu Tokyo, Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, Palace Hotel Tokyo, The Edition Tokyo Ginza, The Peninsula Tokyo, TRUNK (HOTEL) Yoyogi Park or Yuen Bettei Deita.
3 nights in Hakone
Fufu Hakone, Gen Hakone, Gora Kadan, Hakone Ginyu, Hakone Gora Byakudan, Hakone Suishoen, Hotel The Mitsui Hakone (opening 2026), Hoshino KAI Hakone, Hyatt Regency Hakone (great value and location), Ryokan Hakone Ginyu or Yoshimatsu.
2 nights in Takayama
Hanaougi Bettei Iiyama, Hidatei Hanaougi, Miyama Ouan Kyoritsu Resort, The Green Hotel or Wanosato Takayama.
2 nights in Kanazawa
Auberge Maki no Oto Kanazawa, Beniya Mukayu Ryokan, Hanaakari, Lian Kanazawa or Motoyu Ishiya.
6 – 10 nights in Kyoto
Ace Hotel Kyoto, Aman Kyoto, Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto, Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, FUFU Kyoto, Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto,
Hyatt Regency Kyoto (great value and location), Park Hyatt Kyoto, Six Senses Kyoto, Sowaka, The Hiramatsu Kyoto, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
2 nights in Naoshima
2 nights in Kurashiki
3 nights in Osaka
Conrad Osaka, Four Seasons Hotel Osaka, Osaka Station Hotel, The Ritz-Carlton Osaka, The St. Regis Osaka, W Osaka or Waldorf Astoria Osaka.
Additional Favorites: Amanemu, Aman Niseko (2027), Asaba Ryokan, Auberge Tokito, Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, and in Okinawa for beach: Halekulani, The Ritz-Carlton, The Rosewood Miyakojima.
Photo courtesy of Aman Kyoto
A donation to The Nippon Foundation Kids Support Project in Japan supports a multifaceted approach to empowering vulnerable children. This initiative assists thousands of young people nationwide, prioritizing education, health and emotional well-being. The project’s holistic programs address the unique needs of each child, offering academic scholarships, community-based support services and more. It also seeks to enable children to overcome adversity and reach their full potential by fostering a nurturing environment. Through skills training, mentorship and guidance, the project empowers young people to become confident, independent individuals, breaking the cycle of poverty and inequality.
To Plan and Book your Travel
To book your business and leisure travels worldwide, call on David Rubin and his team at DavidTravel. In 1996, David moved from a successful law practice, followed a deep passion for travel, and launched his travel company. For more than a decade, he has been on the Travel + Leisure Magazine “A-List” and the Conde Nast Traveler Magazine “Specialist List” of the best travel advisors in the world. DavidTravel delivers unparalleled style, attention to detail and insider access, uniquely responding to each client’s goals, budget, interests and dreams.
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