Japan Beyond Tokyo

Hakone

Tokyo is dazzling. It’s efficient, electric, and endlessly fascinating. But if Tokyo is your only stop in Japan, you’re missing out on so much of what Japan has to offer. 

Japan truly comes alive once you step beyond the capital. Regional cities offer a deeper sense of place, quieter moments, and experiences that feel personal rather than procedural.

Kyoto is often the natural next stop, and for good reason. This is where Japan’s cultural rituals—tea ceremonies, temple architecture, seasonal cuisine—are preserved with care and intention. Early mornings here are magical, especially when the city is still waking up. When I traveled to Japan two years ago, Kyoto was easily my favorite city (and the same could be said of my fellow travelers). It’s walkable and bikeable. There are no tall buildings - a marked difference between Kyoto and Tokyo or Osaka. And there is a strong sense of Japanese culture whether it’s found in the tea ceremonies or the food. We stayed at the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto and it was easily my favorite hotel during the trip as it had such a sense of place. The food at every meal was also excellent. 

For travelers craving nature and restoration, Hakone offers an easy counterbalance. A night in a ryokan with private onsen baths and views of Mount Fuji adds a layer of calm that Tokyo simply can’t replicate. After being in busy Tokyo, spending time in nature (perhaps in your own private bath in your room) feels so necessary. This is the most logical stop between Tokyo and Kyoto, and offers an easy transition between the two cities. 

Further north, Kanazawa surprises many first-time visitors. Its impeccably preserved samurai districts, contemporary art scene, and exceptional seafood make it feel quietly sophisticated—without the crowds of larger cities. If you’re looking for a more relaxed pace (even from Kyoto) this could be an ideal stop on your itinerary. 

In the Japanese Alps, Takayama feels worlds away from modern Japan. Think wooden merchant houses, mountain air, and an unhurried rhythm that invites you to slow down and look closer. If you’re traveling in winter and looking for mountain sports - without going up to Hokkaido, this could be a great alternative. 

And then there’s Naoshima, located on Seto island, where architecture, art, and landscape blend seamlessly. It’s contemplative, design-forward, and ideal for travelers looking to be surrounded by art and nature for a few days. 

Osaka

And lest we forget two other favorite stops for our travelers: Osaka and Hiroshima. Osaka continues to see more and more luxury hotel openings including the Four Seasons and the Waldorf Astoria. It’s perfect for a few nights and great for foodies who want to try a little bit of everything including okonomiyaki and takoyaki. For history lovers, Hiroshima is a must-visit. While there may not be as much happening in the city itself, there is plenty to explore related to WWII history and the impact of the first atomic bomb, as well as beautiful gardens around the city. 

The key to experiencing Japan beyond Tokyo isn’t checking off more destinations—it’s pacing the journey well. Japan’s rail system makes multi-city travel seamless, but knowing when to add a private transfer, or when to linger an extra night, makes all the difference. We can help you plan your ideal trip to Japan, whether it’s the first visit or you’ve traveled there before, by curating an itinerary that takes you to the places that best suit your needs and desired experience. 

Japan rewards travelers who move with intention. When designed thoughtfully, a journey beyond Tokyo becomes less about seeing Japan—and more about understanding it.