Japan Travelers Recommend

Japan's most iconic landmark, Mt Fuji is an extremely popular destination from Tokyo. Visit the UNESCO-listed mountain, see the countryside, and take in the area's scenic views on a single- or multi-day tour from the city—here are your options.

Full-Day Tours

Sample all that the Mt Fuji region has to offer with a convenient full-day visit. Sit back and relax as your train or bus whisks you from the Japanese capital to the mountain area, where you can take in highlights such as Lake Ashi, the Gotemba Outlets, and Mt. Fuji's famous 5th Station. A range of private and customizable trip options offer plenty of flexibility, and you can count on being back in Tokyo later that same day.

Multi-Day Tours

Multi-day tours offer the opportunity to deepen your Japan knowledge and see more of the country during your excursion. Enjoy roundtrip transport from Tokyo to Mt Fuji and a handful of other Japanese cities, such as Kyoto and Nara, plus included overnight accommodations. At the mountain, you'll have enough time to take part in boat rides, shopping, and onsen (hot spring) visits.

Things to Know

1. Mount Fuji is located about 80 miles (130 km) southwest of Tokyo, and trips by road take about two to three hours each way. Bullet trains from Tokyo reach nearby Shin-Fuji Station in about an hour.

2. Day trips typically last between 9 and 12 hours, so be sure to pack for a full day.

3. Bring comfortable shoes and a camera, plus appropriate cold-weather clothing and hiking shoes if you plan to ascend Mt Fuji.

4. Most tours include round-trip transport by train or bus, plus lunch and most entrance fees.

As Japan’s capital and major transportation hub, Tokyo makes an ideal base for exploring the nation by its excellent network of some of the world’s fastest trains. From Kyoto to Hiroshima, here are popular destinations you can visit by train.

Kyoto — 2 hours and 50 minutes from Tokyo

Those with limited time in Japan who don’t want to miss the sights of Kyoto can zoom there and back on a day trip by rail from Tokyo. This culturally rich city also serves as a first stop on many multi-day tours of the country, with high-speed trains departing from Kyoto Station to other points of interest.

Mt. Fuji — 2 hours and 20 minutes from Tokyo

While there’s no Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji, a number of nearby stops offer connections to various areas on the mountain via bus service. It’s possible to get off at stops along the Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train line to transfer to local buses that continue on to Mt. Fuji. Alternatively, some travelers head to the famous peak, along with Hakone, Lake Ashi and Mt. Komagatake, by coach and continue on to Kyoto via bullet train.

Hiroshima — 1 hour and 40 minutes from Kyoto

If you have a few days to spare outside of Tokyo, consider continuing your high-speed train journey from Kyoto on to Hiroshima. Touring this city offers sober insight into the aftermath of the Aug. 6, 1945, bombings.

Nara — 2 hours and 20 minutes from Kyoto

Nara, another destination often visited by bullet train from Tokyo by way of Kyoto, was Japan’s first permanent capital. It’s home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a wealth of pagodas, temples, and Buddhist shrines.

Nagano — 1.5 hours from Tokyo

Nagano, home of the famous snow monkeys, is also known for its natural hot springs, snow skiing in winter, and summer alpine hiking.

Geisha are one of the most misunderstood pieces of the Japanese cultural puzzle. These traditional Japanese entertainers are trained in various Japanese arts—dance, music, and the tea ceremony. Here’s what you need to know about geisha culture in Tokyo.

What is a Geisha?

The Japanese geisha tradition dates back to the 18th century, and modern-day geisha continue to undergo a rigorous apprenticeship in geisha houses that include lessons in song, historic dances, Japanese musical instruments, and the intricacies of the traditional tea ceremony. While there’s a common misconception in the West that geishas are prostitutes, this is not the case. A real geisha projects a sense of feminine perfection and are successful based on their talents at entertaining.

Ways to Experience Geisha Culture in Tokyo

Kyoto may be considered the most famous Japanese city for geisha districts, but you’ll find them in several areas of Tokyo as well. It’s common to see geisha strolling along the cobbled streets of Tokyo’s Kagurazaka neighborhood, and travelers looking for a taste of Japanese entertainment can book an authentic geisha performance over tea or a multi-course meal. For something a little different, opt for a private shopping tour with a geisha or sit down for a private lunch with one.

You’ll barely scratch the surface of Tokyo in one day, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have an enriching experience. Learn about Japan's unique religious traditions in historic neighborhoods, watch a robot cabaret, and shop for traditional souvenirs and futuristic fashion. Here’s how to spend a rewarding 24 hours in the city. 

Morning: Exploring Asakusa

A visit to the Asakusa neighborhood offers an idea of what all of Tokyo looked like before high-tech development took over, helping visitors understand how the city has changed over the years. Take an Asakusa walking tour to wander the district's narrow lanes, which have been a popular shopping destination for centuries, and visit the grand Sensoji Buddhist temple along with various other temples and Shinto shrines. Rickshaw tours are also a great way to get familiar with the area.

Afternoon: Window Shopping in Harajuku

Head to Harajuku to see young, hip, and sometimes simply weird fashion. Spend the afternoon enjoying the area’s vintage stores, cosplay shops, and colorful street art, whether you choose to shop or just browse the wacky collections. Be sure to stop at the Watari Museum of Contemporary Art, which features cutting-edge exhibitions, then head over to upmarket Omotesando or the peaceful Meiji Jingu shrine and Yoyogi Park for a change of pace. Short afternoon sightseeing tours allow you to check off a number of attractions even with limited time.

Night: Dinner with Entertainment

To relax and enjoy Tokyo's illuminated skyline after dark, opt for a dinner cruise on Tokyo Bay. Or, if you're looking for a jolt of energy in the form of a memorable, uniquely Japanese experience, book tickets for the Robot Restaurant cabaret show, an electrifying dance and laser performance with the option to include drinks and dinner. Finally, if you’re not too tired after a busy day, join a pub crawl tour to experience the best of Tokyo’s nightlife.

Tokyo is a city where old and new collide—a place where traditional ceremony and classical architecture meet modern technology and futuristic fantasy. You haven't really seen Tokyo until you've experienced both sides. See below for your options.

Old Tokyo

Japan has a rich culture of ceremony and tradition dating back centuries, and this heritage remains visible in Tokyo today. Take part in the intricate ritual of a tea ceremony, learn to make sushi the traditional way, or watch some sumo wrestling. The city's history comes alive in neighborhoods such as Ryogoku, a sumo wrestling hotspot, and Asakusa, one of the oldest areas in Tokyo and home of the seventh-century Sensoji Temple.

New Tokyo

While Asakusa feels like an ancient neighborhood frozen in time, Akihabara Electric Town looks right out of the future. This modern neighborhood—quintessentially New Tokyo—is also at the epicenter of Japan's cosplay, karaoke, video game, and comic book culture. The city's architecture speaks to its position as one of the world's greatest modern metropolises, and you can get some of the best views from the Tokyo Tower's 476-foot (145-meter) observation deck.

An ancient Japanese Shinto tradition, sumo wrestling combines ritual elements with the energy of full-contact wrestling. From attending the annual sumo tournaments to observing sumo stable training sessions, here's how to experience sumo in Tokyo.

When to Go

Six 15-day Grand Sumo tournaments are held each year in Japan. Most take place in Tokyo, with one held in January, another in May, and a third in September, while Fukuoka, Osaka, and Nagoya each host one tournament as well, in November, March, and July, respectively. Even if you don't happen to be in Japan during a Grand Sumo tournament, you can take a sumo-themed tour any time of year to gain insight into wrestlers’ training and eating habits while learning all about sumo culture.

Where to Go

Tokyo is the epicenter for most sumo activity, with the city's famous Ryogoku district's Ryogoku Kokugikan (Sumo Hall) hosting three annual tournaments. Most of the various sumo stables and sumo-themed tours are also based in Japanese capital.

How to Go

If you time your trip right, you can attend a sumo tournament to view a Dohyo-iri ring-entering ceremony and catch the action of a live match. Otherwise, combine visits to top Tokyo sites such as the Tsukiji Fish Market or the Asakusa area with a stop at one of the city's numerous sumo training stables to see where heavyweight combatants live and prepare for matches, an experience only available by tour. Other tours explore specific aspects of daily sumo rituals including wrestlers’ diets, which center around a calorically rich stew called chanko, or visit the Sumo Museum (Nihon Sumo Kyokai), which is attached to the Ryogoku Sumo Hall and features sumo artifacts, some dating back as far as 1600.

Formerly the imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto is home to some of most beautiful and fascinating palaces, castles, and temples found anywhere in the country, all of which are easily accessible via day trips from Osaka. Here’s what you need to know about guided tours of Kyoto from Osaka.

Group Tours

Taking a small-group tour of Kyoto from Osaka offers a convenient way to see the top attractions and UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Arashiyama, Kyoto Imperial Palace, the Golden Pavilion, Sagano Bamboo Forest, Kinkakuji Temple, and Nijo Castle—without blowing your travel budget. Group sizes are limited, so you’ll have plenty of opportunity to ask questions and learn about what you’re seeing from your local tour guide. Full-day tours to Kyoto from Osaka often include stops in Nara and Kobe as well. 

Private Tours

With your own dedicated guide, a private tour to Kyoto affords you even greater flexibility to plan your perfect day and see the sights you want to see most, skipping those you don’t. A fully customizable day tour, complete with an English-speaking driver, can also include visits to nearby cities of interest, like Nara and Kobe.

Things to Know

• Choose between the value of a small-group tour and the flexibility of a private tour.

• Morning, afternoon, or full-day Kyoto tours from Osaka are available.

• Day trips to Kyoto from Osaka can last between six and 13 hours, depending on the option you choose.

• Focus your day trip on Kyoto, or visit nearby Nara and Kobe as well.

• Visit Kyoto by bus, private vehicle, or bullet train from JR Osaka Station.

It can be hard to know how to spend your time during a short visit to Tokyo. But you can cover a lot of ground with a little planning, checking off the must-see sights, heading out into the nearby mountains, and eating your way around the city. Here’s how to see Tokyo in just three days.

Day 1: Get to Know Tokyo

By focusing on particular areas that interest you, you'll get to know Tokyo’s distinct culture and character in a short amount of time. Spend day one taking in the city's biggest attractions on a themed sightseeing tour by bus or on foot—you won't want to miss the Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines of the Asakusa district, the quirky youth culture in the Harajuku neighborhood, or the luxury shopping in Ginza and Shibuya. After a day of photo ops, settle in for the ever-entertaining Robot Restaurant cabaret show. Book tickets in advance to see a high-tech robot and laser performance with the option to also include dinner and drinks.

Day 2: Take a Day Trip to the Mountains

After exploring some of Tokyo’s busiest areas, head out of the city to see some nature. Easily accessible by Japan's famous bullet trains (shinkansen), Mount Fuji is a must-see that holds a special place in the hearts and minds of the Japanese. While the peak can occasionally be seen from Tokyo, nothing a beats a convenient guided tour to the mountain to learn about its significance. Alternatively, head north of Tokyo to Nikko National Park on a guided day trip. The area's 17th-century shrines are some of the most beautiful in Japan, and there are plenty of hiking trails and onsen baths to suit your interests.

Day 3: Focus on Food

Japanese food holds a lot of regional variation around the country. Learn about the cuisine’s variety—and how to cook some of its most iconic dishes—on a guided food tour. Start with an early morning Tsukiji fish market tour and continue on around the city to sample various bites. Choose a cooking class to learn the art of sushi-rolling or find out how to make the perfect ramen broth, or book a Japanese tea ceremony experience to gain insight into this high art. End your final day in Tokyo with a memorable dinner in a local izakaya pub or a revolving-sushi restaurant. If you’ve still got some energy afterward, head out on a Tokyo karaoke or bar crawl tour for some late-night fun.

One of the planet’s most exciting food destinations, Tokyo is hub for perfectionism on the plate. Chefs study specific techniques for years, even decades, taking pride in their mastery of a single dish. From noodles to sushi to tempura, here are some must-try dishes in Tokyo.

Ramen, Udon, and Soba

It's possible to spend an entire trip to Tokyo just eating noodles. There are ramen (noodles in broth), udon (thick noodles), and soba (thin buckwheat noodles) to choose from. Look for restaurants that specialize in a single type and dig in.

Yakitori

Walk just about anywhere in Tokyo for a whiff of chicken skewers grilling over a charcoal fire. Stop into an izakaya, or informal Japanese pub, and order a few skewers alongside a cold beer.

Sushi and Sashimi

Sushi and sashimi are an art in Tokyo, showcasing the skills and expertise of the chef. Sit at the sushi counter if possible and watch the master prepare your meal from slicing the fish to making the sushi.

Tempura

Tempura— battered and deep fried seafood and vegetables—is an art form in Tokyo. These bites are best enjoying piping hot, so eat them the moment they hit the table.

Gyoza

Japanese dumplings stuffed with pork and cabbage, gyoza are a popular dish across Tokyo. Compared to other styles of dumplings, gyoza have a notably thin outer skin.

Kaiseki

To witness the artistic side of Japanese cuisine, look out for kaiseki, a multi-course meal with beautifully plated dishes.

Tokyo is an enormous city with excellent public transit and small, walkable neighborhoods—you don’t need a car to get around. In fact, parking is a problem at many center-city destinations, so it’s best to avoid driving. Here are your options.

Train, Subway, and Bus

Tokyo’s above- and underground rail systems are extensive, efficient, clean, and quite comfortable (as long as you avoid rush hours). Most points of interest in the city are within easy walking distance of at least one station. Be aware that different companies run different lines, and not all tickets or transport passes are interchangeable. Buses are less popular with travelers, but they’re an option for reaching attractions that are farther afield. 

Walking Tours

Although Tokyo is big, its neighborhoods are compact and simple to navigate. Take a train to a neighborhood, then get around on foot. Walking tours are a fun way to get to know particular neighborhoods—you can even choose a theme, such as Shinjuku nightlife, architecture, or photography.  

Small-Vehicle Tours

For a different way to get a close-up look at a Tokyo neighborhood, get around by bicycle, traditional rickshaw, or boat. You can even join a go-kart tour. 

Kyoto is hot and humid in the summer, but with so many beautiful outdoor attractions, such as parks and temples, you won’t want to spend your visit seeking indoor air-conditioning. Explore at a leisurely pace, and you can enjoy the best of Kyoto in the summer without getting overheated. Here are a few places and experiences you shouldn’t miss.

• Take a morning city tour to enjoy the cooler morning air before the heat of the day, visiting must-see sights such as the Golden Temple, Kiyomizu-dera, and the Arashiyama district.
• Sit back and relax on a traditional-style rickshaw tour of the bamboo forests of Sagano.
• Eat your way around Kyoto on an evening food walking tour.
• Learn about Zen Buddhism on a daylong retreat at a peaceful temple.
• Don a colorful, summer-weight yukata kimono and have photos taken to commemorate your visit during a professional photo shoot.
• Exercise your creative side with an a rts-and-crafts class, where you can learn traditional Japanese arts such as flower arranging and watercolor painting.
• Shop for high-quality souvenirs with a guide on a customized private shopping tour.

High-tech, high-rise, and ultramodern, Tokyo seems an unlikely setting for romance—at least at first look. But, whether you’re creating your own version of Lost in Translation or exploring with a longstanding love, the city has lots to offer. Here are a few ways to get romantic.

See the Cherry Blossoms

The few short weeks when the cherry blossoms (sakura) flower across Japan are magical. Experience them with your sweetheart on a nighttime stroll, a romantic picnic, or a private tour.

Craft a Love Token

Japan’s traditional arts make the ultimate romantic souvenir. Design a jade carving for each other and watch a craftsperson sculpt them. Have a calligrapher create and handwrite new Japanese names, full of private meaning. Or, make traditional omamori —scented love charms.

Savor a Private Ritual

The ancient rituals of Japanese culture are best shared between the two of you alone. Join your own personal master chef to discover the art of rolling sushi or sip matcha at a private tea ceremony.

Play Dress-Up

Be it samurai or ninja, geisha or courtesans, even Tokyo locals love to play dress-up on weekends. Don a colorful kimono and full geisha makeup—or the more muted tones of a Japanese noble—and pose for timeless photos in a Zen garden photo shoot.

With two days in Nagano, you can enjoy the cultural highlights of the city, see the beautiful mountains of Nagano Prefecture that surrounded it, and watch the region’s famous “snow monkeys” bathing in hot-spring pools. Here are some tips for how to spend two days in Nagano.

Day 1: Tour Nagano City

Morning: Start your day at one of Nagano’s most important sites, the 8th-century Zenkoji Temple, around which Nagano City grew. See the Buddhist statues inside the Main Hall (rebuilt in the 1700s), then head to the nearby Zenkoji History Museum to learn more about the history of the temple and Nagano itself.

Afternoon: In the afternoon, learn about the local Togakure school of ninja, founded in the 12th century. If you’re traveling with children, check out the Kids’ Ninja Village theme park; otherwise dip into local ninja history at the Togakure Ninpo Museum.

Night: Enjoy a relaxed dinner this evening at a local izakaya, a Japanese pub-restaurant. Local food specialties to try include buckwheat soba noodles, oyaki dumplings, pickled mustard leaves, and—if you’re game—horse sashimi.

Day 2: See the Snow Monkeys

Morning: Set out this morning for Yamanouchi, less than an hour’s drive northeast of Nagano city and famous for the Japanese macaques that bathe in the hot waters of Jigokudani Monkey Park. Although it’s possible to see the monkeys year-round, winter is the best time to see these wild animals, which learned to enjoy the hot springs by mimicking humans.

Afternoon: If it’s winter and you’d like to warm up after seeing the snow monkeys, head to the hot springs at the nearby towns of Shibu Onsen and Yudanaka Onsen. If you’re visiting at another time of year, devote the afternoon to hiking in nearby Shiga-kogen, within the UNESCO World Heritage Site Joshinetsu-kogen National Park.

Night: Spend your final evening in Nagano enjoying the lively nightlife along the shopping arcade Gondo-dori. Join nattily dressed locals perusing the bars, clubs, and cafés, all open late, and raise a glass to your Nagano visit.

Three days in Sapporo gives you enough time to explore the city’s highlights, to experience the local culture and flavors, and to get outside the city to explore a lake, park, or mountain. Here’s how to make the most of three days in Sapporo.

Day 1: City Sightseeing

Get a comprehensive introduction to Sapporo on a guided sightseeing tour of the city. Visit top attractions, such as Odori Park, Sapporo Clock Tower, the former Hokkaido Government Office Building, Sapporo TV Tower, and Hokkaido Jingu Shrine. Then spend the afternoon sampling and learning all about Sapporo beer at the Sapporo Beer Museum or chocolates at the family-friendly Shiroi Koibito Park and Ishiya Chocolate Factory.

In the late afternoon, take the Mt. Moiwa Ropeway up to the summit and observation deck of Mt. Moiwa to enjoy panoramic city views at sunset and at night. There’s a restaurant up top, or head back down to Sapporo and spend the evening sampling local cuisine. A food tasting tour is a great way to try a variety of dishes, including miso ramen, a regional specialty.

Day 2: Active Pursuits

Spend the day enjoying outdoor activities outside of Sapporo. If you visit in winter, head to one of the area ski resorts, such as Sapporo Teine Ski Resort, Bankei Ski Resort, or Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort and spend the day skiing and snowboarding. If you visit in other seasons, head to Lake Shikotsu and Mount Tarumae or Nopporo Forest Park to go hiking or mountain biking. Alternatively, head to Furano and Biei to see the lavender fields and the Blue Pond.

After a busy day, soak your tired muscles at an onsen, or Japanese hot spring. If you travel to Lake Shikotsu, check out the onsens at Noboribetsu. If you stay closer to Sapporo, head to Jozankei Onsen or Hoheikyo Onsen, both located near the city.

Day 3: Local Flavors

Start your final day off sampling fresh Hokkaido seafood at one of the bustling food markets in town, such as Nijo Market or Central Wholesale Market. Afterwards, take the train to the nearby port town of Otaru (about an hour by train), known for its well-preserved canal area and historic mansions. Be sure to check out the many shops along Sakaimachi Street, especially those devoted to glassworks or music boxes. Otaru is also a great place to sample more seafood, sweets and desserts, whiskey, and sake.

If you prefer to stay in Sapporo, take a cooking class and learn to make local favorites such as sushi and soba, or go shopping for souvenirs at an underground shopping plaza, such as Aurora Town or Pole Town. Then enjoy your final night out on the town in vibrant Susukino, which offers plenty of options to dine, drink, and dance the night away.

Japan’s volcanic landscape is dotted with thousands of natural hot springs, perfect for a relaxing soak in the mineral-rich waters after a day of sightseeing. Don’t leave Japan without experiencing one of these Japanese-style spas—here’s what you need to know.

What are Ryokans and Onsens?

Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns found throughout the country, often in hot springs areas. Common features include tatami floors, futon beds, local cuisine, and access to Japanese-style hot springs baths, called onsen. Some of these hot springs are found within public bath houses, while others belong to a ryokan. These pools come in all varieties—indoors and outdoors, co-ed or gender separated.

Highlights

• Relax in an onsen after exploring Mount Fuji on a day trip from Tokyo.

• Soak in the waters of Shibu Onsen, a hot-springs resort dating back more than 1,300 years.

• Observe wild macaques (Japanese snow monkeys) bathing in their own onsen in Jigokudani Monkey Park.

• Spend the night in a traditional ryokan while exploring the Nagano region.

• Unwind in an urban onsen, like Spa World in Osaka or Thermae-Yu in Tokyo.

• Finish off a day of biking, hiking, skiing, or snow sledding with a warming soak in a natural hot spring.

With clear, crisp days ideal for viewing Mt. Fuji and soaking in hot springs, Tokyo in winter is chilly but charming. Travelers visiting the Japanese capital between December and February will enjoy fewer crowds and plenty of opportunities to check out culture, history, and beautiful snowy landscapes. Here are a few ways to do so.

• Discover Tokyo’s must-see landmarks and enjoy a cruise on Tokyo Bay on a full-day city bus and boat tour.

• Visit a training center in Tokyo to watch the morning sumo practice.

• See some of Tokyo most important temples, gardens, and shopping areas on a morning bus tour of the city’s top sights.

• Enjoy photo opportunities with a variety of sleepy-eyed night birds during a unique owl cafe experience.

• Day trip to Mt. Fuji and the surrounding area, including a visit to a hot spring resort.

• Feel the magic of Studio Ghibli on a tour of the Ghibli Museum and Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum.

• Play in the snow, savor a fresh seafood lunch, and visit a strawberry farm on a day trip to Tambara Snow Land.

• Hit the slopes on a day tour of Lake Kawaguchi and Fujiten Snow Resort.

• See snow monkeys and temples on a small-group day trip to Nagano by bullet train.

Get off the beaten path in the ultramodern city of Osaka by touring its historical side. Pay a visit to these temples and shrines through the city, and you’ll be rewarded with a rich cultural experience often overlooked in Osaka.

Hozenji Temple

Built in 1637, the small and serene Hozenji Temple in Dotonbori attracts relatively few visitors, making it an excellent refuge from the neon lights and crowds of nearby Shinsaibashi. Situated on a narrow lane lined with shops and cafes, the temple is dedicated to one of Buddhism’s five Wisdom Kings.

Osaka Tenmangu Shrine

Founded in the tenth century, Osaka Tenmangu Shrine is one of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan, dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, the deity of scholarship. The shrine famously hosts the Tenjin Matsuri festival, one of the most popular festivals in Japan, where a likeness of the temple’s deity is paraded through the city.

Isshinji Temple

Known for its strikingly modern entrance, Isshinji Temple has a history dating back to the 12th century when it was founded by the leader of the Pure Land Sect. Today, the Buddhist temple enshrines a statue of the Buddha constructed with human bones gifted to the temple by devotees since the late Edo period.

Sumiyoshi Taisha

Many travelers may not realize that Osaka is home to one of Japan’s oldest shrines, Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. Founded in the third century, the temple distinguishes itself as being one of only three shrines in the entire country with purely Japanese architecture, free of influence from the Asian mainland.

Shitenno-ji Temple

Shitenno-ji was believed to have been founded in the sixth century, making it one of Japan’s oldest temples of Buddhism. The temple’s stone torii dates back to 1294—the oldest of its kind in the country—and the temple grounds feature a main hall, five-floor pagoda, and a peaceful strolling garden.

Soak up Kyoto’s traditional atmosphere, see its most famous attractions (including UNESCO-listed sites), delve into its cultural heritage, and head out of town to explore a neighboring city. Here’s how to make the most of three days in Japan’s former imperial capital.

Day 1: Explore the City’s Top Attractions

A full-day coach tour whisks you around Kyoto to landmarks such as Kiyomizu Temple, Kyoto Imperial Palace, the Temple of the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), and Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, with its vibrant torii gates. Prefer more independence? Private tours allow you to customize the itinerary. Or consider a hop-on hop-off bus tour to spend as long as you like at each place. 

Later, get off the tourist track, and unwind with food and drinks on a guided nightlife tour of locals’ favorite bars and restaurants. 

Day 2: Dive Into the Culture

Immerse yourself in Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. For more insight into Japanese culture and tradition, opt for a private walking tour led by a scholar of a subject that interests you, such as Shintoism and Buddhism or Japanese gardens and landscapes. Other options include taking calligraphy or origami classes, participating in a tea ceremony, or learning taiko drumming. Foodie travelers can join a guided tour of sprawling Nishiki Market or a cooking class to learn how to make sushi and other Japanese dishes.

Round out your day with a visit to Gion, the entertainment district. Watch a performance by maiko (apprentice geisha) accompanied by traditional Japanese music, followed by a multicourse dinner. Or book a private meal with a geisha who entertains you with song and dance as you dine.

Day 3: Take a Side Excursion

A visit to the city of Nara is a popular day trip from Kyoto. With a guided tour, get to Nara and back within a day and still have time to see more of Kyoto. Tours typically visit Todaiji Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan and home to the country’s largest Buddha statue. You’ll also likely stop by Kasuga Grand Shrine, featuring thousands of stone and bronze lanterns, and Nara Park, home to free-roaming deer.

Spend your final evening strolling the atmospheric streets of Old Kyoto on a nighttime walking tour, exploring areas such as Pontocho, Kiyamachi, Kawaramachi Street, and Gion. Many tours include samples of regional food and drink.

The ancient Japanese capital of Nara has lots to offer visitors, including a range of UNESCO-listed sites like Todaiji Temple and a collection of gardens and parks. Here are some options to visit Nara on either a half- or full-day trip from Kyoto.

Half-Day Tours

See more of Nara in less time on a half-day trip covering highlights such as Nara’s Shinto-inspired Kasuga Shrine, the thousands of deer at the famous Nara Park, and the iconic Todaiji Temple with its “Daibutsuden” (Great Buddha Hall). 

Full-Day Tours

Full-day excursions offer a more leisurely opportunity to get to know the ancient Japanese culture and numerous landmarks in Nara. During your all-day visit, you’ll likely get to explore many of the sights mentioned above, plus other landmarks like Kofuku-ji Temple and Nijo Castle. Some full-day trips even offer optional side visits to Kyoto, or upgrades like a private tour or luxury transport. 

Things to Know

• Nara is situated 26 miles (42 kilometers) from Kyoto, and is easily accessible by either train or bus.

• Trains leave Kyoto twice an hour, and the journey to Nara takes 35 minutes.

• Guests with time for independent exploration should consider stops at other Nara highlights including Yakushiji Temple, Isuien Garden, and “Naramachi,” the city’s traditional merchant district.

• Nara lies in a temperate climate zone, with hot summers and chilly winter temperate. Make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the season.

As colorful leaves create a beautiful backdrop and temperatures become more comfortable than in sweltering summer, autumn is an ideal time for exploring Tokyo. Visiting the Japanese capital between September and December yields myriad opportunities to experience the unparalleled culture, food, history, and scenery. Here are a few ways to do so.

• Explore Tokyo at your own pace and see only what you want to see on a private custom city tour.

• Eat and train like a sumo wrestler during a sumo demonstration and chanko nabe (hot pot) lunch.

• Thrill to the sights and sounds of an electric matinee performance at the Robot Restaurant.

• Explore theme-park magic with a 1-day passport and private transfer to Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea.

• Soak up views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi and pick seasonal fruits on a day trip to Fuji’s 5th Station.

• Explore the shrines, temples, and landscapes of Nikko National Park on a day tour of Nikko.

• See fall foliage just outside Tokyo on a d ay trip to the Yamanashi Prefecture, Arakurayama Sengen Park, and Lake Kawaguchi.

• Take a full-day tour to the Niigata prefecture to see its golden autumnal glory, and to ride the Naeba Dragondola and Tashiro Ropeway.

• Experience a kaleidoscope of color on a full-day Tokyo sightseeing tour during spectacular momiji (autumn leaves) season.

A visit to Tokyo is a feast for all the senses—thanks to everything from the sight of neon lights plastered onto soaring skyscrapers and sounds of idiosyncratic cultural festivals to the scent of tiny noodle stalls crammed into back alleys. All this stimulation can feel overwhelming at times, so you’ll want to plan ahead to ensure you make the most of your time here. See below for our top picks and experiences you can't miss in the Japanese capital, from exploring the city’s most important landmarks and watching sumo wrestlers practice to trying your hand at preparing sushi and experiencing an “only in Japan” glitzy robot restaurant cabaret show.

With three days in Osaka, you have plenty of time to deeply explore both the traditional and the modern sides of this laid-back city, as well as get out of town to one or two of Japan’s ancient capitals. Here are a few ways to see, taste, and otherwise experience the very best of Osaka in three days.

Day 1: City Sights and Bites

One of the best ways to see Osaka’s top sights and get your bearings is by embarking on a group or private tour by bus or by foot. Tours typically include stops at such must-sees as Osaka Castle, Shitennoji Temple, the Umeda Sky Building, and the colorful, neon-bright Dotonbori district. Some tours also include a river cruise. Other options include chartering a private bus, limo, or van, with a driver and optional guide, and creating your own itinerary for exploring Osaka’s sights. Alternatively, a hop-on hop-off bus and boat tour allows you to create your own sightseeing plan, disembarking at places of interest along the route. Tours usually include a public transit pass for further independent exploration.

In the evening, get a taste of Osaka’s famous eats on a street food tour of downtown. Feast on local classics including the takoyaki (battered octopus balls) for which the city is known.

Day 2: Explore Deeper

Now that you have seen the city’s main landmarks, delve deeper into local culture on a walking tour that is focused on a particular aspect of city life. You can take a tour that penetrates off-the-beaten-path, lesser-known neighborhoods or a tour focused on visiting Osaka’s most important temples and shrines. Other options include otaku (manga and anime enthusiast) tours that visit cosplay theaters, game shops, and maid cafés, as well as tours that teach the art of traditional Japanese skills such as the tea ceremony, sword techniques, or Japanese cooking.

For dinner tonight, indulge in another evening of culinary adventure on a small-group food and drink tour that takes you to hidden-away bars and restaurants to eat Osakan favorite dishes, such as kushikatsu (fried food on sticks) and tonpeiyaki (grilled pork and egg). 

Day 3: Visit Kyoto and Nara

The ancient capital of Kyoto is an easy day trip from Osaka. On a full-day tour you can absorb the city’s traditional atmosphere, explore its rich culture and UNESCO World Heritage–listed sites, stroll through serene gardens, and marvel at such spectacular attractions as the seemingly endless torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine, the 1,000-plus Bodhisattva statues at Sanjusangendo Hall, and the gleaming Temple of the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji). Tours often include hotel pickup and lunch.

Some full-day tours also include a visit to the charming nearby city of Nara, another of Japan’s ancient capitals, which is home to Todai-ji temple, an 8th-century structure that houses some of Japan’s national treasures. Nara is also known for its eponymous park, populated by more than 1,000 deer.

Osaka's food culture can be summed up in one word: kuidaore, which roughly translates as eat until you drop. Osakans love food, and the city is a Japanese culinary highlight, with everything from sushi to street foods to ramen on offer. Here’s what to know about Osaka’s expansive culinary scene.

Where to Go: The Entertainment Districts

The most concentrated selection of Osaka’s best restaurants are found in the city’s main entertainment districts–Umeda (Kita area) and Dotonbori (Minami area). Street food stalls and izakayas packed into these districts cook up many of Osaka’s favorite dishes, from piping hot takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancake) to kushikatsu (skewers of deep-fried meat and veggies) and sushi. Take your cues from the locals; if a place is crowded, it’s probably good.

How to Indulge on a Food Tour

The sheer variety of foods available in Osaka can be overwhelming. A great way to get an overview of the culinary scene before embarking on your own explorations is to take a food tour through one of the city’s foodie hot spots, areas such as Tenma, Kyobashi, and Namba, each with its own markets, food stalls, and restaurants worth exploring. With a local guide, you’ll see and try things you might otherwise miss and learn more about local culture and cuisine along the way.

What is a Bento Box

Like elsewhere around Japan, fast food in the Kansai region comes in the form of bento boxes. Convenience stores and dedicated bento establishments serve these both hot and cold. For a quick lunch, bento boxes are as local and quintessential Osaka as it gets.

How to Enjoy a Kappo -Style Meal

High-end cuisine called kappo has become incredibly popular in Osaka. In this style of eating, the chef prepares made-to-order food in front of the customer. Kappo -style restaurants are typically small and intimate with seating around a small bar where the chef works.

Ways to Try Your Hand at a Cooking Class

Recreating Osakan food at home doesn’t have to be intimidating. Demystify your favorite Japanese food by taking a cooking class in Osaka. Options range from a small-group afternoon sushi making with a professional sushi chef to an in-home cooking lesson featuring five traditional dishes, each made from scratch.

With three days in and around Nagano, you can spend a day seeing the sights of Nagano city and another two on day trips around mountainous Nagano Prefecture, taking in temples, castles, and the famous local wildlife. Here are our top picks for spending three days in Nagano.

Day 1: Nagano City

Start your day at one of Nagano’s most important sites, the 8th-century Zenkoji Temple, where you can view impressive Buddhist statues and learn more about the city’s long history. Next, turn your attention to Nagano’s 12th-century Togakure school of ninja. If you’re traveling with children, check out the Kids’ Ninja Village, with ninja costumes and obstacle courses; otherwise, visit the Togakure Ninpo Museum, which delves into the school’s history. Finally, take a hands-on cooking class to learn about local cuisine and make—and eat—Nagano specialties such as oyaki dumplings and basashi (raw horse meat).

Day 2: Snow Monkeys

Devote your second day to one of Nagano’s most famous attractions: Jigokudani Monkey Park, northeast of the city in the town of Yamanouchi. Visit the park independently, or join one of the many half- and full-day tours that stop at the park as part of a larger area exploration, including Zenkoji Temple and the Shiga-kogen Highlands. At the wildlife reserve, visitors watch Japanese macaques bathe in the hot springs, a pastime they learned from humans. Winter is the best time to see these “snow monkeys,” although viewing is possible year-round. If you feel like a soak after viewing the macaques, head to a nearby hot-spring resort such as Shibu Onsen or Yudanaka Onsen. Alternatively, hiking enthusiasts can take in spectacular valley views in Shiga-kogen Park, within Joshinetsu-kogen National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 3: Visit Matsumoto

Rise early on your third day in Nagano, and take a day trip to the castle town of Matsumoto, a 1- to 2-hour drive away. Spend the day exploring this small city on the plains, with snow-capped mountains visible in the distance. The town’s star attraction, black, 16th-century Matsumoto Castle survived World War II intact. Other highlights include well-preserved merchant houses and the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, where the hometown of eccentric Japanese contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama proudly displays many of her colorful sculptures, paintings, and installations.