Japan in 11 Days: 4 Recommended 11-day Itineraries to Japan

Check out some of our best 11-day Japan itinerary ideas below.

Offering five exciting Japanese-infused destinations, this itinerary is the perfect way to move seamlessly between each new spot, with plenty of day-tripping and optional excursions on the cards. This means you have the freedom to join in the planned activities and the chance to see and do some of the things you’ve got your own heart set on in Tokyo, Takayama, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka. The narrow alleys between Edo-period merchant houses in Takayama are a sure highlight, along with cute deers walking across the shore in front of the giant red torii gate over on Miyajima Island, with Mount Nilsen peeking out in the background. See all 11-day itineraries in Japan.

Take the road less traveled in this 11-day Japan itinerary plan. From learning the art of washi-paper making to falling in love with samurai culture in Hagi, this adventure is doused in history and traditions, showcasing the exquisite beauty of Japan. Tick off castles, temples, shrines and torii gates, as well as some lesser-known natural landmarks, like coastal sand dunes. Plus, you’ll also get up close and personal with Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) under the roof of Japan, i.e., Nagano, and visit Otsu, the cradle of Japanese Buddhism. Explore two main cities: Tokyo and Kyoto, with hidden treasures in between.

You can also get a customized Japan itinerary similar to the one above.

Put your endurance to the test during this 11-day cycling tour of Japan. Destinations on this itinerary are carefully mapped out and chosen for their pathways designed for bike-travel. Starting in Kyoto, you’ll end in Tokyo, with a flurry of unique spots to explore as you navigate west to east. Stroll among the canals and flowing rivers through Gujo and the picturesque thatched homes of Gassho. Do your cycling-weary body a favor with an onsen bath. There are also certain parts of the trip where you will be traveling using the Shinkansen bullet trains. Consider them as rest days for your grand cycling tour around Japan. See more cycling tours in Japan.

Filled with island visits, city explorations, cable car rides, ferry journeys and even a stay in a Buddhist monastery, this Japan itinerary takes you from the mountains to the seaside. Ever heard of places like Naruto (and no, we don’t mean the anime) or fascinating Kurashiki with its ancient folk toys museum and Denim Street? How about Nara’s 7th-century Horyu-ji temple—one of the oldest in Japan—or Okayama’s black “crow castle?” Natural landscapes, significant landmarks and sanctuaries, and even movie filming site locations. Get ready to uncover all the mystique and magic of Japan on this trip. See all Japan tours.

Whether you’ve decided to explore Japan in 11 days using the speedy bullet trains, via private transport modes, or on a cycle, you’re in for an unforgettable treat. Navigate your own way around the country or join one of our pre-packaged 11-day trips to Japan. Alternatively, you can connect with our travel experts for a customized trip to Japan. Have fun!

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How many days to stay in Japan?
10 days in Japan
One week in Japan