Japan in 12 Days: 4 Recommended 12-day Itineraries to Japan

Here are some 12-day Japan itinerary ideas if you are ready to plan one.

If Japan has been on your travel bucket list, this adventure is the ultimate starter pack. It starts and ends in Tokyo, and takes you to other major cities of Osaka and Kyoto as well. But just because you’ve heard about these cities doesn’t mean you’re in for the typical city sightseeing tours. Instead, days overflow with traditional ceremonies, rituals and food workshops, unearthing legends and learning the art of the samurai. With more than one day in an area, you’re also not whizzing through it all, really taking your time to appreciate the sites, culture and food, with more than enough time for shopping rounds or a big night out, even expeditions around Mount Fuji. See all 12-day tours in Japan.

Lace up your hiking boots for an epic 12-day Kumano Kodo hiking trip, which will take you from Kyoto’s Philosopher's Path to Kumano Kodo’s pilgrimage trails. Passing mountains, villages, native flora and fauna, forests, seas of clouds, waterfalls, religious sanctities, ancient ruins and relics, this trekking venture gives you the up-close-and-personal experience without the boundaries of car travel. Even in our major city routes, like Tokyo or Osaka, you’ll traverse it all on foot. The bulk of this hike is between days four and nine, with downtime to rest your legs or relax in hot, steaming onsens. Some train travel is involved, soaring through the Japanese Alps, port cities and former preserved post towns. See all hiking trips in Japan.

Swap the typical central Japan itineraries for parts lesser known in the southern basin, where the climate is warmer, the coastlines beckon, and there are islands to discover. Utilizing ferry crossings, row boat rides, train travel, biking expeditions and in-depth walking tours, this tour is designed for nature enthusiasts and those who love being outdoors. Trek volcano calderas, unwind in hot springs and photograph sakura-blossoming landscapes. There’s plenty of sightseeing as well, like art-rich Naoshima (where Monet originals are on display) and Arita—birthplace of Japanese Artita Ware porcelain. You’ll even visit an onsen that’s been awarded 3-star Michelin status. 

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From glassblowing workshops in Gora to the painted landscapes of Nikko, and from Kamakura’s literary legacy to Yamanouchi’s snow monkeys, get to know the country a little better with this 12-day Japan itinerary plan. Journey from Tokyo, down coastlines and inland, ending up in the Mount Fuji region. Hone in on museums, zen gardens, giant Buddhas and traditional tea houses. Enjoy day hikes to temples or local villages, national park tours, and in the cooler months, white winter wonderlands, where it’s totally possible to go snowboarding. See all Japan tours.

Whether you’re an anime geek, foodie, avid hiker or culture addict, the country’s traditions and beauty never fail to amaze. But don’t just take our word for it; experience it for yourself. Popular ways to travel include hiring a car or motorbike, trekking the country on foot or bicycle, and, of course, taking advantage of Japan’s bullet trains. Or, you can join one of Bookmundi’s 12-day holiday packages to Japan. For a personalized experience, connect with our local travel experts to plan a customized tour of Japan to your exact liking.

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