The short answer
Ten to fourteen nights is ideal for a first trip to Japan. Ten covers Tokyo, Kyoto and a night or two somewhere slower, such as a ryokan in Hakone. Fourteen lets you add Kanazawa, Nara or the Japanese Alps.
The short version
Ten nights is comfortable for a first trip: four in Tokyo, four in Kyoto, and two somewhere slower.
Twelve to fourteen lets you add Kanazawa, Hakone or the Kiso valley, and gives Kyoto the mornings it deserves.
The rail network is so good that internal travel costs you hours, not days.
What fits into each trip length
| Nights | What it covers |
|---|---|
| 7 | Tokyo and Kyoto |
| 10 | Tokyo, Hakone or the mountains, Kyoto |
| 14 | Add Kanazawa, Nara, Hiroshima or the Kiso valley |
| 17 or more | Add Shikoku, Kyushu or a longer rural stay |
A sample twelve night route
Four nights in Tokyo. One or two nights in a ryokan in Hakone or the mountains. Four nights in Kyoto with a day trip to Nara. Two nights in Kanazawa or Hiroshima. Fly home from Tokyo or Osaka.
Getting the pace right
Japan's trains are fast and reliable, so moving between cities is easy. The risk is trying to do too much in each place. Kyoto especially rewards early mornings, before the main sights get busy.
Our adviceSend your large luggage ahead between hotels. It is a common service in Japan and makes train days much easier.
Planning a Japan trip with us
Globe Travel Centre has been planning trips since 2006. We help you choose the right ryokan, time your visit for the seasons and plan train journeys that keep the days relaxed.
Frequently asked questions
It is enough for Tokyo and Kyoto. Ten nights or more is better.
Yes, for at least one night. It is one of the highlights of a trip.
It depends on your route. We will check whether it saves you money.
