Are you looking for a luxurious trip to Japan? One that will leave you feeling pampered and indulged? Look no further! We’ve got you covered, we’ll guide you through a 7-day itinerary that’s perfect for travelers who want to experience the best of Japan in style.
The Best Time to Visit Japan
Before we dive into the itinerary, let’s talk about the best time to visit Japan. Generally speaking, the best times to visit Japan are in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is mild and pleasant, and you’ll get to see beautiful cherry blossoms or autumn foliage. Due to being the most commonly recommended time, popular tourist destinations can be incredibly crowded during these times so it is best to keep that in mind when travelling in spring and autumn.
If you’re not afraid of rain and heat, though, visiting in summer can be a great opportunity to experience some of the best festivals and firework displays that Japan is known for. The summer months are littered with these great cultural experiences and can be found across the country. Most are also free entry, so you don’t have to be travelling in luxury to enjoy the local festivals.
For those with a love for snow and cold weather, visiting Japan in the winter time can also provide some benefits. Adorably cute snow monkeys begin to appear throughout the rural areas of the country at this time. Not to mention it’s a great chance to enjoy Japan’s infamous onsens and even take a trip skiing throughout the snowy mountains. Another benefit travelling in summer and winter is that the crowds of tourists will be less as many will be coming over in the spring in order to enjoy the sakura season.
Tokyo tower – credit: by Jezael Melgoza
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
Upon your arrival at Narita or Haneda airport, you’ll be whisked away in a luxurious private car to your hotel in Tokyo. We recommend staying at The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo or the capitol hotel Tokyu, 5-star hotels with stunning views of the city. Spend the day relaxing at the hotel’s spa or exploring the nearby Ginza district.
Day 2-3: Tokyo
Over the next two days, you’ll get to experience the best of Tokyo. Start your day with a gourmet breakfast at your hotel, then head out to explore the city’s many attractions. We recommend visiting, with us, the Tsukiji Fish Market, the Tokyo National Museum, and the Meiji Shrine. For a unique dining experience, book a table at Sukiyabashi Jiro, a Michelin-starred sushi restaurant that was featured in the documentary Jiro Dreams of Sushi.
Kyoto pagoda house – credit: by Erik Eastman
Day 4: Travel to Kyoto
Take the Shinkansen to Kyoto, a city known for its rich history and traditional culture. Upon arrival, you’ll be taken to your hotel, The Genji Kyoto, a stunning hotel located between 2 beautiful rivers, A sanctuary with serene gardens and 19 elegant rooms, each with a river, garden, or city views. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city’s many temples and shrines, including the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine.
Day 5-6: Kyoto
Over the next two days, you’ll get to experience the best of Kyoto. Start your day with a gourmet breakfast at your hotel, then head out to explore the city’s many attractions. We recommend visiting the Kinkaku-ji Temple, the Nijo Castle, and the Gion district. For a unique dining experience, book a table at Kikunoi, a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves traditional Japanese cuisine.
Kikunoi restaurant interior – credit: tableall.com
Day 7: Departure
On your final day in Japan, you’ll be able to book a luxurious private car. We hope you enjoyed your stay in Japan and look forward to seeing you again soon!
Cost Breakdown
For a luxurious 7-day trip to Japan, we estimate the following costs:
- Accommodation: USD 4,000-USD 6,000
- Transportation: USD 1,000- USD 2,000
- Food: USD 3,000- USD 5,000
- Sightseeing: USD 2,000-USD 3,000
Overall, we estimate the total cost of a luxurious trip to Japan to be between USD 10,000- USD 16,000, depending on your choices of accommodations and dining options.
Kyoto traditional streets – credit: by Sorasak
Final Thoughts
Japan is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re on a budget or looking to indulge in luxury, there’s something for everyone in Japan. We hope this itinerary has inspired you to plan your own trip to Japan and experience all that this amazing country has to offer.
For those looking for more budget-friendly options make sure you check out our other entry in this series here. Safe travels, we look forward to seeing you there!
Feature photo credits: JJ Ying
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