Japan blends ancient temples with neon-lit cities, serene nature and even tropical beaches. I spent three weeks backpacking Japan and it became one of my most memorable travel experiences.
Your first stop is likely to be Tokyo. There’s so much to see here, I recommend 5 days in Tokyo. Discover ancient temples and bamboo groves in my 2 day Kyoto itinerary. For sun, sand and a different side of Japan, don’t miss my one week in Okinawa itinerary.
These places were both part of my incredible 3 week Japan itinerary covering the country’s must-see destinations when you’re on a Japan backpacking trip.
Heading there in spring? Check out my essential guide to what to wear in Japan in April to pack perfectly for cherry blossom season.
Planning a trip to Japan can be both exciting and overwhelming. The culture is unfamiliar, the logistics are complex, and there’s a quiet pressure to see it all. I spent three weeks travelling through Japan, from Tokyo and Kyoto to the tropical islands of Okinawa. To maintain a sustainable pace, I made deliberate trade-offs. This…
I visited the beautiful city of Kyoto during an incredible three-week trip around Japan. Once the capital of Japan and still its culture capital, you can experience its essence even on a short visit. I’ve put together this 2 day Kyoto itinerary based on my time there, with updated tips for 2026. It includes iconic…
Everyone is talking about Okinawa. Expedia named the remote Pacific islands its no. 2 top global destination for 2026, driven by a 71% surge in searches. Many of Okinawa’s islands are quiet and serene, despite their tropical climate, beautiful beaches and fascinating history. A few years ago, I visited Okinawa as part of a 3…
Cherry blossom season in Japan is famous for a reason – full of delicate petals, ancient temples and enough matcha lattes to fuel your adventures. But the weather this time of year can be tricky and the compact hotel rooms mean overstuffed suitcases are a no-no. Deciding what to wear in Japan in April is…