1. Overview of Japan Travel Itineraries
Explore unique itineraries tailored for different types of travelers in Japan, including first-timers, budget explorers, and Japanophiles.
2. First-Timer Itinerary by Scott Gilman
Days 1-3
Head for Tokyo and unpack at the Mandarin Oriental, near Ginza, the city’s most iconic shopping district. “Make time for the food floor at the Mitsukoshi department store,” Gilman advises, along with guided visits to a sumo stable, the famed Tsukiji market, the Meiji Shrine, and the trendy Harajuku district.
Days 4-5
After three days in Tokyo, hop on the bullet train northwest to Kanazawa. “It’s home to one of the last well-preserved samurai-era neighborhoods in Japan,” notes Gilman. The city also boasts historic teahouses and shops selling Wajima lacquerware. He recommends spending at least one night in the nearby Kaga Onsen area, known for its hot-spring towns like ryokans such as Kayotei. Close at hand are the UNESCO-protected villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, famous for their unique architecture and centuries-old traditions of mulberry and silkworm farming.
Days 6-10
From Kaga Onsen, it’s a three-hour train ride to Kyoto, where the Park Hyatt awaits, offering stunning hillside views. A three-night stay is ample time to explore the historic Nijo Castle, a former samurai stronghold, and the serene Arashiyama district, home to a spectacular bamboo forest. Additionally, Gilman can arrange a guided day trip to a private tea estate in nearby Uji. Afterwards, journey to Nara, Japan’s first capital city, with excellent accommodations available at Rice Terrace Villa Sasayuri-ann, ideal for surrounding hikes.
Days 11-14
Conclude your trip by traveling from the ancient capital to Naoshima, an island renowned for its contemporary art scene. Stay at the Tadao Ando-designed Benesse House, conveniently located near Chichu Art Museum and Teshima Art Museum. Don’t miss the Art House Project, a collection of repurposed buildings transformed into immersive art installations.
3. Budget Explorer Itinerary by Amy Tadehara
Days 1-4
Upon arriving in Tokyo, stay in the historic Asakusa district at the Richmond Hotel Asakusa. Embark on a guided tour showcasing the contrasts of the capital, from the nostalgic Yanaka district to the vibrant Omotesando and Shibuya. On your second day, engage in a kintsugi lesson, focusing on the unique art of repairing broken ceramics with gold lacquer. Next, travel to the Izu Peninsula, known for its hot springs and onsens, where you’ll experience lodging in a traditional ryokan, Hanafubuki.
Days 5-7
Continue by train to Kyoto, checking into the Agora Kyoto Karasuma. Connect with a local guide to explore historic sites and partake in a temple meditation session. The next day, delve into the unique roketsu indigo dyeing process, applying wax to block dyes on cloth.
Days 8-10
Travel onward to Furumaya House, a charming farmhouse. Participate in local tea ceremonies and enjoy the rural lifestyle. On Day 10, take a scenic train ride back to Nakatsugawa, a charming locale adorned with well-preserved postal villages like Magome and Tsumago, where the rustic guesthouse Minshuku Daikichi provides accommodation.
Days 11-14
Explore Matsumoto, home to a well-preserved samurai castle. After a thorough castle tour, sample local soba noodles and unwind at the Richmond Hotel Matsumoto. Finally, enjoy a smooth train ride back to Tokyo, where various expert guides can complement your exploration of the bustling city.
4. Japanophile Itinerary by Rebecca Mazzaro
Days 1-3
Skip Tokyo and head directly to Shikoku, famed for its pilgrimage circuit of 88 Buddhist temples, famously established during the Edo period. Unwind at the JR Hotel Clement Tokushima, then find a guide to visit Ryozen-ji, the starting point of the temple path, along with other significant religious sites.
Days 4-5
Shorten your travel time to Takamatsu to explore Ritsurin Park, a celebrated national treasure for its beauty. Participate in various activities, including soaking in hot springs and tasting local cuisine. On Shodoshima Island, you can stay at the eight-room Shimayado Mari, offering garden views and artisanal experiences like sake brewery tours.
Days 6-8
Transition to Kyushu’s southernmost point, staying at the ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa with scenic bay views. Participate in a guided forest-bathing experience at Aso-Kuju National Park, followed by exploration around Mount Aso, concluding with a luxurious stay at the enlightened Takefue.
Days 9-13
From central Kyushu, travel to Nagasaki where post-war recovery stories await. Participate in guided tours to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and other historical sites. Additionally, visit the serene Chiran Peace Museum, centered on kamikaze pilot stories, complemented by stays at lovely resorts such as Wasurenosato Gajoen, offering tatami-covered floors and open-air onsens.
