Is 12 days in Japan enough? Yes! For a 12 day tour of Japan, you will not only experience the distinctive culture and history but also have the opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of landscapes, from busy cities to quiet villages. Whether you're an elderly tourist longing for traditional culture immersion, a young visitor looking for exciting adventures, a family looking for parent-child fun, or newlyweds expecting a romantic getaway, you'll find your own way to travel this colorful country. This ultimate guide to 12 days in Japan is to recommend the best tours for you, customizing the most suitable Japan 12 day itinerary to take you to experience the unique charms of Japan.
Table of Contents
-12-Day Japan Itinerary for Family with Kids
-12-Day Japan Itinerary with Hokkaido Exploration
-12-Day Japan Itinerary with Okinawa Experience
-12-Day Japan Itinerary with Mt. Fuji & Tateyama Kurobe Adventure
-12 Days in Japan Cost
-Best Time to Embark on a 12 Day Trip to Japan
■Take a quick visit to these 12 day trips to Japan in advance by clicking the following links. Feel free to contact us to customize your private tour to make each day a spectacular, interesting, lifetime experience without glitches and problems.
12 Days Tokyo - Yokohama - Hakone - Nagano - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka Tour
12 days | From $ 6767
12 Days Tokyo - Hakone - Mt.Fuji - Sapporo - Furano - Asahikawa - Biei - Toya Tour
12 days | From $ 4788
12 Days Tokyo - Hakone - Mt.Fuji - Okinawa - Onna - Naha Tour
12 days | From $ 5588
12 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Nagano - Tateyama Kurobe - Toyama - Kanazawa - Kyoto - Osaka Tour
12 days | From $ 6616
12-Day Japan Educational Family Fun Tour
-Days: 12
-Cater for: Family with Kids
-Quick Access>>>12 Days Tokyo - Yokohama - Hakone - Nagoya - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka Tour
▲Highlights (12 Days in Japan What to Do):
●Indulge in the immersive art of teamLab Borderless in Tokyo, where interactive digital installations create a seamless, ever-changing world of art and technology.
●Explore the Cup Noodles Museum and create your very own personalized cup noodle by choosing from a variety of ingredients and flavors to make it truly unique.
●Visit the Anpanman Children's Museum, a lively and interactive space where young visitors can enjoy exhibits, and play areas, and meet the beloved Anpanman characters.
●Take a visit to the Fuji Safari Park to see a wide variety of rare and fascinating animals in a natural, wild environment near Mount Fuji.
●Enjoy the impressive large sculptures at the Hakone Open-Air Museum and engage in hands-on art activities to unleash your creativity.
●Spend a fun-filled day at LEGOLAND Japan Resort if you would like to Immerse in a world built by brick and explore themed attractions, interactive rides, and creative LEGO displays for all ages.
●Experience cutting-edge train technology at the SCMAGLEV and Railway Park by exploring Japan's high-speed trains and innovative railway systems.
●Step into history at the Samurai & Ninja Museum with Experience in Kyoto to learn about the traditions of samurai and ninjas and try on authentic gear while engaging in hands-on activities.
●Tour Nara Park to feed the friendly deer and visit the impressive Todai-ji Temple, home to the world's largest wooden structure and the giant Great Buddha statue.
●Have fun in the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan to get up close with marine life at the interactive touch zones and experience the wonders of the ocean.
▲Overviews of the Japan 12 Days Itinerary for Family with Kids
●Days 1-3: Tokyo (Senso-ji Temple, Sky Tree, Sumida River Cruise, Odaiba Marine Park & Tokyo's Rainbow Bridge, Teamlab Borderless Tokyo, Ikebukuro Sunshine City, Shibuya Crossing Starbucks Brewery, Hachiko Statue, Shibuya Parco)
●Day 4: Yokohama (Yokohama Chinatown, Cupnoodles Museum, Yokohama Anpanman Children's Museum)
●Day 5: Mt. Fuji & Hakone (Mt. Fuji Safari Park, Hakone Open Air Museum, Transfer to Nagoya by Shinkansen)
●Days 6-7: Nagoya (LEGOLAND Japan Resort, Toyota Kaikan Museum, SCMAGLEV and Railway Park)
●Days 8-9: Kyoto (Samurai & Ninja Museum with Experience, Gion, Nishiki Market Food Experience, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Nara Park, Todai-ji Temple, Watch making mochi)
●Days 10-12: Osaka (Osaka Castle Park, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Free-Day Activity)
▲Hotels to Stay during Your 12 Day Trip to Japan:
●OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda by Hoshino Resorts - 3 Nights in Tokyo:
√ Convenient location near Gotanda Station
√ Access to nearby local eateries and nightlife
●Susukinohara Ichinoyu - 1 Night in Hakone:
√ Traditional Japanese ryokan experience
√ Private open-air onsen baths
√ Kaiseki dining with seasonal ingredients
√ Ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation
●Hotel Trusty Nagoya Shirakawa - 2 Nights in Nagoya:
√ Convenient access to public transportation
√ Walking distance to Nagoya City Science Museum
√ Excellent value for its amenities
●Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto-ekimae - 3 Nights in Kyoto:
√ 2 minutes walk to Kyoto Station
√ Spacious accommodations ideal for families or couples
√ Convenient for exploring Kyoto's cultural attractions
●Tokyu Stay Osaka Hommachi - 2 Nights in Osaka:
√ Central location near Hommachi Station
√ Walking distance to shopping and dining
√ Ideal for extended stays
√ Convenient access to Osaka attractions
Get ready for an exciting family adventure that combines fun, learning, and breathtaking scenery! For this 12 days Japan itinerary, you will visit the interactively fantastic TeamLab Borderless and ride the Sumida River Cruise in Tokyo. Then enjoy thrilling attractions like the safari park and open-air museum, and soak in the beauty of Lake Ashi at Mt. Fuji and Hakone. Continue to Nagoya, where LEGOLAND and the Toyota Museum will captivate kids and adults alike. Kyoto's temples, Nara's playful deer, and Osaka's aquarium round out this unforgettable family trip packed with discovery and joy! Feel free to contact us for any customization if you would like a Japan itinerary 12 days with Disneyland!
12-Day Summer Tokyo and Hokkaido Tour
-Days: 12
-Cater for: Foodie, Natural Lovers, Hokkaido Explorers, Summer Trip
-Quick Access>>>12 Days Tokyo - Hakone - Mt. Fuji - Sapporo - Furano - Asahikawa - Biei - Toya Tour
▲Highlights (12 Days in Japan Where to Go):
●Head to Tsukiji Market to savor a variety of fresh and delicious local snacks and delicacies, starting your first morning in Tokyo during your 12 days itinerary.
●Delve into Tokyo's vibrant Shibuya district and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city from the popular Shibuya Sky observation deck.
●Experience the breathtaking views of Hakone with a scenic sightseeing cable car ride and a relaxing cruise on Lake Ashi.
●Explore the picturesque Arakurayama Sengen Shrine, one of the best spots for capturing Mount Fuji, and explore the ancient thatched houses at the base of the mountain.
●Take a flight to Sapporo, Hokkaido, and immerse yourself in the region's unique charm.
●Savor the popular sweet treat, Shiroi Koibito, and head to Otaru to experience the charm of this quaint northern town.
●Visit the vibrant lavender fields of Hokkaido, where the colorful blooms create a picturesque landscape straight out of a beautiful painting.
●Indulge in the unique and delicious lavender-flavored ice cream at Farm Tomita - a must-try treat in Hokkaido.
●Enjoy the exciting animal parades at Asahiyama Zoo and observe a variety of animals in a fun and interactive setting.
●Take a trip to the Toya Lake Observatory for panoramic views, capturing the stunning landscapes on both sides of Lake Toya.
▲Overviews of This Best 12 Day Japan Itinerary:
●Days 1-4: Tokyo (Tsukiji Market Food Experience, Odaiba Marine Park, Shibuya Sky Observation, Shibuya Hachiko, Meiji Jinggu, Sensoji Temple, Imperial Palace, Free-day Activity)
●Days 5-6: Hakone & Mt. Fuji (Owaku-dani Valley, Lake Ashi, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Shrine, Oishi Park, West Lake Village, Narusawa Hyoketsu Ice Cave, Arakurayama Sengen Shrine)
●Day 7: Trip to Plane to Hokkaido (Sapporo) from Tokyo
●Day 8: Hokkaido & Otaru (Hokkaido-Jingu, Shiroi Koibito Park, Otaru Canal)
●Day 9: Biei & Furano (Patchwork Road, Hokusei-no-oka Observatory park, Panoramic Flower Gardens Shikisai-no-oka, Farm Tomita, Ningle Terrace)
●Day 10: Asashikawa & Miei (Asahiyama Zoo, Shirahige Fall, Shirogane Blue Pond)
●Day 11: Hokkaido & Otaru (Cape Chikyu, Mt. Showa Shinzan, Sairo Observation Deck, Toyako, Lake Shikotsu)
●Day 12: Departure
▲Best Accommodations Arranged for You to Enjoy Japan in 12 Days:
●Mitsui Garden Hotel Shiodome Italia-gai - 5 Nights in Tokyo:
√ Walkable distance to Ginza shopping district
√ Stunning views of Tokyo Bay, Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Tower
●Ryokan Aura Tachibana - 1 Night in Hakone:
√ Relaxing hot spring baths for guests
√ Delicious kaiseki cuisine prepared daily
●HOTEL MYSTAYS Premier Sapporo Park - 4 Nights in Sapporo:
√ 2-minute walk from Nakajima Park and Nakajima Koen Subway Station
√ Excellent base for exploring the Hokkaido region
●Furano Natulux Hotel - 1 Night in Furano:
√ Relaxing outdoor hot spring bath
√ Close to the station and easy access to Furano's top attractions
√ On-site restaurant serving local Hokkaido cuisine
√ Great location for outdoor adventure activities
Join us on this 12-day adventure where you'll explore Japan's vibrant cities and breathtaking natural beauty. Start in Tokyo, where you'll visit iconic spots like Shibuya and Meiji Shrine, then head to Mt. Fuji and Hakone for stunning mountain views and tranquil hot springs. In the second half of this 12 days in Japan itinerary, we'll fly to Hokkaido, where you can immerse yourself in the colorful flower fields of Furano and the serene Blue Pond in Biei. Wrap up the trip with a relaxing visit to Lake Toya and Cape Chikyu—it's an experience you'll never forget!
12-Day Japan Vibrant Capital and Tropical Paradise Tour
-Days: 12
-Cater for: Seniors, Okinawa Explorers
-Quick Access>>>12 Days Tokyo - Hakone - Mt. Fuji - Okinawa - Onna - Naha Tour
▲Highlights (Must-do Things to Do in Japan in 12 Days):
●Join a guided tour and explore Tokyo's cultural landmarks, including the historic Senso-ji Temple, while traveling conveniently by the city's public transportation.
●Enjoy a day of free activities in Tokyo to design your own itinerary and discover the city at your own pace.
●Head to the Owakudani Valley to feel the earth's natural pulse in Hakone, the closest hot spring destination to Tokyo.
●Explore the Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, a historic site offering the best spot to capture the most iconic views of Mount Fuji in a picturesque setting with its famous Chureito Pagoda.
●Fly to Okinawa and check into a seaside hotel in the central region to enjoy beautiful coastal views.
●Visit the natural landmark of Cape Manzamo in Okinawa, which is known for its unique elephant-shaped rock formation and breathtaking coastal views.
●Explore "Kuroshio Sea", Asia's largest aquarium, and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring experience of watching whale sharks glide through the waters in Churaumi Aquarium.
●Visit the Ryukyu Village to explore the traditions, crafts, and culture of Okinawa's indigenous Ryukyu people.
●Go snorkeling in the Blue Cave before spending the afternoon at Nago Pineapple Park exploring local pineapple cultivation and tasting a variety of pineapple-based products.
●Transfer to Naha to explore the bustling Kokusai Street for shopping, and visit the historic Shurijō Castle, a symbol of Okinawa's rich heritage.
▲Overviews of This 12 Days Japan Trip Itinerary
●Days 1-4: Tokyo (Tsukiji Market Food Experience, Odaiba Marine Park, Shibuya Sky Observation, Shibuya Hachiko, Meiji Jinggu, Sensoji Temple, Imperial Palace, Free-day Activity)
●Days 5-6: Hakone & Mt. Fuji (Owaku-dani Valley, Lake Ashi, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Shrine, Oishi Park, West Lake Village, Narusawa Hyoketsu Ice Cave, Arakurayama Sengen Shrine)
●Day 7: Flight to Okinawa
●Day 8: North Okinawa (American Village, Kouri Island, Cape Manzamo, Churaumi Aquarium)
●Day 9: Middle Okinawa (Kadena Air Base, Ryukyu Village, Zampamisaki, Zakimi Castle)
●Day 10: Okinawa (Onna Village Blue Cave -Snorkeling Experience, Nago Pineapple Park)
●Day 11: South Okinawa (Urasoe Dai Park, Kokusai Street, Naminoue Jingu, Shurijō Castle)
●Day 12: Departure
▲Best Hotels Included in This 12 Day Tour of Japan:
●Mitsui Garden Hotel Shiodome Italia-gai - 5 Nights in Tokyo:
√ Prime location in central Tokyo near Shimbashi and Ginza stations
√ Easy access to Tokyo's popular tourist spots
√ Spacious rooms with contemporary, elegant decor
●Ryokan Aura Tachibana - 1 Night in Hakone
√ Traditional Japanese ryokan with Onsen facility
√ Perfect for an authentic Japanese experience
●ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort - 4 Nights in Onna
√ Luxury resort with spacious, modern rooms
√ Outdoor pool and private beach access
√ Ideal for family vacations and romantic getaways
●HOTEL COLLECTIVE - 1 Night in Naha:
√ Excellent location in the city center for exploring Naha and beyond
√ Convenient access to Kokusai Street shopping
√ Close to cultural and historical landmarks
If you're looking for a mix of city excitement and tropical relaxation, this 12 day Japan itinerary is perfect for you. We'll start in Tokyo, exploring famous landmarks like the Imperial Palace and Odaiba, before heading to Mt. Fuji and Hakone for a dose of nature. Then, it's off to Okinawa, where you can snorkel in the Blue Cave, walk through Ryukyu Village, and enjoy the beaches and local culture. By the end of the trip in Japan in 12 days, you'll feel refreshed and inspired!
12-Day Mt. Fuji & Tateyama Kurobe Spectacle Journey
-Days: 12
-Cater for: Youngsters
-Quick Access>>>12 Days Tokyo - Mt. Fuji - Nagano - Tateyama Kurobe - Toyama - Kanazawa - Kyoto - Osaka Tour
▲Highlights (What to Visit in Japan in 12 Days):
●Take a ride on the Tokyo Water Bus, featuring a sleek, futuristic design that offers a dynamic and exciting way to explore the city from the water.
●Capture the iconic Tokyo Tower from the best angle and visit the Meiji Shrine, a serene Shinto sanctuary for a glimpse into Japan\s spiritual heritage.
●Delve into Akihabara, Tokyo's vibrant hub for electronics and anime, where you'll find a vast array of anime merchandise and cutting-edge electronic products.
●Explore the charm of Mount Fuji by visiting the ancient village at its base, and hike up to the Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine to capture stunning views of Japan's iconic peak.
●Visit Matsumoto Castle, also known as the "Black Crow Castle", one of Japan's best-preserved original keep towers and a stunning example of Japanese feudal architecture.
●Head to Nagano to see the famous snow monkeys relaxingly bathing in the hot springs amidst the serene mountain landscape.
●Traverse the Tateyama Kurobe Snow Valley in the Japanese Alps, where impressive snow walls up to 3-4 meters high are formed from April to June to offer you a truly spectacular sight.
●Explore Kanazawa with a visit to the exquisite Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan's finest private gardens, and indulge in its unique treat—gold leaf ice cream.
●Travel to Kyoto to explore World Heritage sites such as the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), the serene Tenryu-ji Temple, and the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousand torii gates.
●Discover a different side of Kyoto by strolling through lush bamboo groves to enjoy the natural beauty, and savoring traditional matcha tea and sweets.
●Learn the ancient art of ninjutsu by training with a Japanese master, donning a ninja costume, and practicing traditional ninja skills.
●Tour the Osaka Castle, a historic landmark that stands as a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
▲Overviews of the Japan Travel Itinerary 12 Days:
●Days 1-3: Tokyo (Tsukiji Fish Market, Tokyo Mizube Line, Senso-Ji Temple, Meiji Jinggu, Ramen street, Imperial Palace, Tokyo Tower)
●Day 4: Mt. Fuji (Kawaguchiko, Tenjozan Park, Oshino Hakkai, Arakurayama Sengen Shrine)
●Day 5: Nagano (Matsumoto Castle, Lake Suwa, Suwa Taisha Shrine, Jigokudani Monkey Park)
●Day 6: Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route (Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route, Murodo, Tateyama Range)
●Day 7: Kanazawa (Nagamachi Samurai, Kenrokuen, Higashi Chaya District, Kanazawa's Geisha District)
●Days 8-10: Kyoto (Nijo Castle, Kiyomizu-dera, Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryu-ji, Sagano Bamboo Forest, Okochi Mountain Villa, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Uji Matcha Street, Nara Park, Todaiji Temple)
●Days 11-12: Osaka (Kuromon Ichiba, Osaka Castle, Ninja-do, HEP Five, Dotonbori)
▲Hand-picked Hotels Arranged for Your Private 12 Day Japan Tour:
●Mitsui Garden Hotel Shiodome Italia-gai - 3 Nights in Tokyo:
√ Located in the Ginza business district
√ Convenient airport transfer and transport links
√ Ideal for both business and leisure travelers
●Fuji View Hotel - 1 Night in Fujiyama:
√ Panoramic views of Mount Fuji from rooms
√ Relaxing hot spring baths with scenic views
√ Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling
●Hotel Metropolitan Nagano -1 Night in Nagano:
√ Centrally located near Nagano Station
√ Convenient for meals and getting around
√ Many rooms available with modern, elegant decor
●Hotel JAL City Toyama - 1 Night in Toyama:
√ Convenient location near Toyama Station and shopping mall
√ Spacious rooms with great views of Toyama Bay and the city skyline
●ONYADO NONO KANAZAWA HOT SPRINGS - 1 Night in Kanazawa:
√ Perfect location near Kanazawa Station for easy access
√ Relaxing natural hot spring baths on-site
√ Comfortable rooms with tatami mats and futons
●Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto-ekimae - 3 Nights in Kyoto:
√ Prime location near Kyoto Station
√ Modern rooms with stylish, comfortable furnishings
√ Close to the shopping area
●Miyako City Osaka Hommachi - 1 Night in Osaka:
√ 2 minutes walk to the nearest Honmachi Station
√ Close to Osaka's shopping and entertainment districts
√ Perfect for exploring Osaka's attractions
Have you ever dreamed of seeing Japan's most stunning landscapes up close? This 12 day trip to Japan itinerary is for you! We'll visit the iconic Tokyo Tower, admire Mt. Fuji's majestic peaks, marvel at the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route, meet the famous snow monkeys, and stroll through the samurai streets of Kanazawa. In Kyoto, you'll enjoy historical temples, bamboo forests, and matcha treats, and in Osaka, we'll dive into vibrant street food and culture. This Japan 12 day tour package lets you experience Japan's beauty and history like never before.
12 Days in Japan Budget
For a private 12 day tour of Japan, our cost can be calculated based on the daily price range provided for family and couple tours. Here's an estimate:
●Family Private Tour (3-5 people):
-Approx. $350-500 per person per day
-12 days: $4,200 - $6,000 per person
●Couple's Private Tour (2 people):
-Approx. $450 per person per day
-12 days: $5,400 per person
This package includes a private car & driver, private guide, accommodation at 4-star hotels with breakfasts, sightseeing activities, and train rides or flights within Japan. The total 12 days in Japan budget will depend on your choice of activities, hotels, and other personal preferences.
Keep in mind that this does not include airfare to and from Japan, and prices may be higher during peak seasons (Sakura dates during March to April and fall foliage time from November to early December) due to increased demand. To embark on a 12 day trip to Japan during these periods, you should budget for higher costs, and booking at least 6 months in advance is advised.
Best Time to Visit Japan in 12 Days
The best time to embark on a 12 day trip to Japan usually depends on what you want to experience. Spring (March to May) is the best time to see the cherry blossoms, with the warm climate and sea of pink flowers attracting thousands of tourists; summer (June to August), although you may experience higher temperatures and humidity, is a great time to experience festivals and participate in outdoor activities, especially for families and those young people who enjoy mountain adventures; autumn (September to November) is the best season to see the red leaves, and the cool climate and colorful foliage making this season particularly enchanting; winter (December to February) is a paradise for skiers, as well as an excellent time to experience hot springs and traditional winter cuisine. Therefore, determine the time that suits you to travel to Japan according to your interests and preferences, enjoying a unique travel experience in 12 days. You can also check out the monthly weather in Japan before you are to plan a 12 day tour of Japan.
What We'd Like to Say
Japan has always been a popular destination for travelers because of its unique culture, magnificent natural scenery, tasty food, and various local experiences. Whether you want to explore the bustle of Tokyo, wander the ancient streets of Kyoto, relax on the beaches of Okinawa, or enjoy the natural beauty of Hokkaido, we can always offer the perfect travel advice for enjoying the best of Japan in Japan. Contact us to craft an amazing 12 days Japan tour itinerary tailored to your wishes!