Welcome to Japan!

Meeting Point: Airport Arrival Area
Arrival flight time: TBA

All your guides and drivers during this trip will be holding nameboards with “Your name” written on it.

Upon arrival at Haneda or Narita Airport, our English-speaking driver will meet and greet you at the airport and assist you with transfer in a private vehicle to the hotel. 

The rest of the day at leisure. 

We recommend a first exploration on foot in the vibrant neighborhood of Shinjuku. It is a major commercial and administrative center and also encompasses the buzzing clubs and karaoke rooms of neon-lit East Shinjuku and upscale bars and restaurants in the Skyscraper District.

Note:
This itinerary arrangement is made for 1 big luggage per person. If you have more, please let us know so we can adjust.

In Japan, there are local taxes imposed when staying at hotels or ryokans. Since some hotels may include these costs in their fees while others may not, please pay any charges requested by the hotel at check-in or check-out on your own.

Overnight in Tokyo

Pick up time: 9:00, In your hotel lobby
Tour duration: 9:00-14:00

After breakfast, meet your English-speaking guide and start your discovery tour of Tokyo by public transportation.

We’ll start from Tsukiji Outer Market. A district adjacent to the site of the former Tsukiji Wholesale Market. It consists of a few blocks of wholesale and retail shops, as well as restaurants crowded along narrow lanes. Here you can find fresh and processed seafood and produce alongside food-related goods such as knives.

Then, you will enjoy a private cooking class to make delicious Sushi. 

In order to dine out like a local in Japan, you'll learn everything there is to know about the history of sushi as well as the correct dining manners at sushi restaurants. You'll begin the sushi cooking session after you've covered Japanese table manners and faux pas. You will also have the chance to sample actual wasabi during this cooking lesson. You'll discover that it differs significantly from the knockoff goods you may be accustomed to. Real wasabi, which thrives in shaded beds of moving water, is famously difficult to grow (unlike the wasabi that arrives in tubes or is served at sushi restaurants on conveyor belts). As a result, authentic wasabi is a luxury in Japan and isn't something that many people outside of Japan have had the chance to experience.

Overnight in Tokyo
Meal(s): Breakfast 

Pick up time: 9:00 in your hotel lobby
Tour duration: 9:00-13:00

After breakfast, meet your English-speaking guide and continue your exploration of Tokyo by public transportation.    

The tour will start in Asakusa, where we’ll find the Sensoji Temple, a very popular and colorful Buddhist temple. It is one of Toky o's most colorful and popular temples. The legend says that in the year 628, two brothers fished a statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, out of the Sumida River, and even though they put the statue back into the river, it always returned to them. Consequently, Sensoji was built nearby for the goddess of Kannon. No visit to Tokyo would be complete without checking out the shops! We’ll take a walk along Nakamise Street lined with boutiques, souvenir shops and street food outlets. 

Tokyo Sky Tree, a television broadcasting tower and landmark of Tokyo. It is the centerpiece of the Tokyo Sky tree Town in the Sumida City Ward, not far away from Asakusa. With a height of 634 meters, it is the tallest structure in Japan and the second tallest in the world at the time of its completion. A large shopping complex with an aquarium is located at its base.

Overnight in Tokyo
Meal(s): Breakfast

Full day at leisure until your bicycle tour. Here is our recommendation to visit on your own.

Transfer on your own to your bicylcle tour.
Reservation time: 9:30-12:30
Meeting point: TBA

Enjoy a 3h Tokyo central bike tour. (not private)

Visit Ginza, Nihonbashi bridge, Old Ningyocho Town, Ryogoku Sumo stadium, Akihabara, Imperial Palace, Hibiya Park.

The rest of the days is full at leisure.

Meiji Shrine. Meiji Jingu is one of the Shinto shrines in Japan, with the vast land of the forest (70 ha.), located in the middle of the megacity, Tokyo. Once you st ep into this precinct, you will forget that you are in the hustle bustle city, and will find Japanese traditional scene amidst greenery nature.  

Right next to Meiji Shrine, there is Harajuku, the center of Japan's most extreme teenage cultures and fashion styles, but also offers shopping for adults and some historic sights. The focal point of Harajuku's teenage culture is Takeshita Dori and its side streets, which are lined by many trendy shops, fashion boutiques, used clothes stores, crepe stands and fast food outlets geared towards the fashion and trend conscious teens.

Also you can visit the district of Akihabara, where you can visit many shops dedicated to anime, manga and video games.

Omotesando: One of Tokyo's most beautiful (and pricey) neighborhoods is Omotesando. Together with Ginza, it is a major luxury retail district and the location of some of the most spectacular examples of human-scale modern architecture in the entire world.

Shibuya. Shibuya, the chaotic, yet miraculously organized crossing has become a symbol of Tokyo's dynamism and represents Shibuya—Japan's trend-setting powerhouse dedicated to fashion and arts. Join the crowds as they diverge off into the many streets and alleyways to shop and hangout in hip cafes, bars, and restaurants. Spend time appreciating the area's fiercely independent art scene, or simply visit to experience the rapid-beating heart of Tokyo.

The Hachiko statue in Shibuya is a tribute to the devoted Akita dog who waited at Shibuya Station every day for his master, even after he passed away. It is one of Japan's famous landmarks. Currently, it ranks among the most well-liked gathering spots in Tokyo.

Overnight in Tokyo
Meal(s): Breakfast

Pick up time: 8:00 in your hotel lobby
Tour duration: 8:00-17:00

In the morning you will send your big luggage to Kyoto with the help of your guide and keep a small bag for four nights.

After breakfast, your English-speaking guide and transfer to Tokyo station by public transportation. Board the bullet train to Odawara station. (9:27-10:00)

Upon arrival explore Hakone by private car.

Start to explore the beautiful Fuji Hakone Izu. This national park is home to incredible scenery including the famous Mount Fuji. Sit back and soak in the natural scenery of Lake Ashi on the Pirate Cruise Ship. From here we’ll get wonderful views and photos of Mount Fuji. 

Our next mode of transport is the cable-car known as the Hakone Ropeway. This gives us the chance to glide through the skies looking down on the Japanese countryside. We’ll get off in Owakudani – an active volcanic zone of sulfurous fumes, hot springs, and rivers.

The last stop is the Open-Air Museum. It has various different sections and exhibition spaces outdoors and indoors. The Picasso Exhibition Hall is one such space and showcases two stories of paintings, sculptures and ceramic works by the artist in addition to photos of him at various points during his life.

Check into the hotel and enjoy the Onsen at your ryokan as well as a traditional Japanese dinner.

Overnight in Hakone
Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

Full day at leisure. Below are some recommendations you to visit on your own.

The Old Tokaido Road in Hakone is a beautifully preserved section of Japan’s historic route that once connected Kyoto and Edo (modern-day Tokyo) during the Edo period. Lined with towering cedar trees and original cobblestones, this atmospheric path offers a walk through history, where travelers can retrace the steps of samurai, merchants, and poets.  Highlights include the Hakone Checkpoint (Hakone Sekisho), a historic security station, and scenic views of Lake Ashi. It’s a unique blend of nature and heritage, ideal for a peaceful and culturally rich stroll.

Explore the history and beauty of Japanese ceramics at HAKONE MUSEUM OF ART, the oldest museum in Hakone. See ancient earthenware, porcelains, and haniwa statues, including an Important Cultural Property. Enjoy the moss garden with stone paths and maple trees, and the landscape garden with scenic views. Relax at the teahouse with matcha and sweets.

Okada Museum, a privately-owned museum showcasing a wide collection of art pieces dating from antiquity to the modern era. Opened in 2013, the museum features a large array of East Asian ceramics, sculptures and paintings, all housed in a very spacious, modern facility surrounded by expansive grounds that feature a Japanese garden, a teahouse and a cafe with hot spring foot bath. 

Gora Park: On the steep slope above Gora Station sits Gora Park, a landscape park designed in the Western style. It is a peaceful location to unwind and take in Hakone's beauty and vistas. Gora Park is largely a French-styled park with a rose garden and a sizable fountain. Two greenhouses are also present in the park, one of which holds a tropical botanical garden and the other a flower garden. The Hakuun-do Chaen teahouse and a restaurant with a view of the main fountain are also present.

The Hakone Crafthouse is located just next to Gora Park, is one of the region's hidden secrets, despite the fact that Hakone is a well-known destination on Japan's "Golden Route" of tourist attractions. Visitors of all ages are invited to explore a variety of artistic endeavors at this cluster of art studios dispersed around the Gora Park slope.

Overnight in Hakone
Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

Pick up time: TBA in your hotel lobby at 9:00 am

After breakfast and check out from your hotel. Your driver will transfer you to the Odawara station and take the Bullet train to Nagoya. (10:07-11:14)

Meeting point: Station platform

Upon arrival, meet your English-speaking assistant and change for the express train to Nakatsugawa station (12:00-12:48) 

 Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel by private car.

Nagiso nestled in the scenic Kiso Valley of Nagano Prefecture, is a charming and historic town offering a blend of nature, culture, and Edo-period nostalgia. 

Nagiso is a picturesque town located in the Kiso Valley of Nagano Prefecture, known for its beautifully preserved Edo-period heritage and scenic mountain landscapes. It is home to Tsumago-juku, one of the most famous post towns along the historic Nakasendo Trail, where visitors can stroll along traditional wooden streets and explore former samurai inns. Nature lovers can enjoy hiking between Tsumago and Magome, a popular trail that follows the old route once used by feudal travelers. Other highlights include the iconic Momosuke Bridge, tranquil Kakizore Gorge, and the peaceful Ushigataki Waterfall. With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Nagiso offers an authentic and relaxing glimpse into Japan’s past.
Dinner will be ready at your hotel.

Overnight in Nagiso 
Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

Full day is free at leisure in Kiso Valley.

Overnight in Nagiso
Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

Meeting point: Hotel lobby at 9:50 am

After breakfast and check-out, meet your driver and transfer to Nakatsugawa station by private car.

Board the express train to Nagoya station (11:06-12:01).

Meeting point: Nagoya station platform
Upon arrival, meet your assistant and change for the bullet train to Kyoto station. (12:10-12:44).

Upon arrival, transfer on your to your hotel with your assistant located next to the station.

The rest of the day is at leisure. Below are our recommendations.

Kiyomizu Temple, one of the most celebrated temples of Japan. It was founded in 780 on the site of the Otowa Waterfall in the wooded hills east of Kyoto, and derives its name from the fall's pure waters. The temple was originally associated with the Hosso sect, one of the oldest schools within Japanese Buddhism, but formed its own Kita Hosso sect in 1965. In 1994, the temple was added to the list of UNESCO world heritage sites.

Sannenzaka Ninenzaka: Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka, a pair of gently sloping lanes that go from Kiyomizu-dera Temple toward Nene-no-Michi Lane, are two of Kyoto's most beautiful streets. Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka are a pair of pedestrian-only lanes that provide some of the most ambient strolling in the entire city. They are lined with beautifully restored traditional shophouses and delightfully free of the overhead power lines that blight the rest of Kyoto.

Gion District. Gion is the perfect place to explore the Kyoto of another age. Known as the city's entertainment district, particularly for the refined performers known as geisha (or more properly geiko) who have enthralled patrons for centuries, Gion is full of handsome, understated townhouses and teahouses, restaurants serving traditional Kyoto cuisine, and venerable temples and shrines.

Overnight in Kyoto
Meal(s): Breakfast

Pick up time: 9:00, In your hotel lobby
Tour duration: 9:00-21:00

After breakfast, your English-speaking guide will meet you and start exploring Kyoto by private car.

Firstly, We’ll head to Arashiyama. A walk through the Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama is first on the itinerary. The walking paths cut through bamboo groves that have been used for centuries to make traditional crafts.  We’ll continue across the Togetsukyo Bridge, an iconic landmark. Great photos can be had of the forested mountains in the background and the nearby riverside park full of cherry trees. 

Tenryuji Temple is a masterpiece of Zen culture and historic beauty. Founded in 1339 by shōgun Ashikaga Takauji and Zen master Musō Soseki, it holds the top rank among Kyoto’s famed Five Great Zen temples and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 .

Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama is a unique attraction where visitors can observe over 100 wild Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) in their natural habitat. After a short but moderately steep hike up Mt. Iwata, you’ll be rewarded with not only close encounters with the monkeys but also a panoramic view of Kyoto city.

The tour will move on to the Kinkakuji Temple, a Zen temple known for its delicately manicured gardens and floors covered in gold leaf. Formally known as Rokuonji, the temple was the retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu.

We’ll have a shopping time at Nishiki Market, five block long shopping street lined by more than one hundred shops and restaurants. Known as "Kyoto's Kitchen", this lively retail market specializes in all things food related, like fresh seafood, produce, knives and cookware, and is a great place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood and sushi.

A Geisha Dinner offers a rare and elegant glimpse into traditional Japanese culture, combining fine dining with the refined entertainment of geisha. Set in a serene ryotei (traditional restaurant), guests enjoy a beautifully presented multi-course kaiseki meal while being entertained by geisha through classical music, dance, and traditional games. It’s a unique cultural experience where you can interact with geisha, learn about their art and history, and witness the grace and hospitality that have defined this tradition for centuries.

Overnight in Kyoto
Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

Tour duration: 9:00-18:00
Meeting point: Hotel lobby

In the morning, you will send your big luggage to Tokyo with the help of your guide and keep a small bag for 2 nights.

After breakfast, meet your English speaking guide and explore Nara by private car.

Visit Todaiji and Nara Park to meet the cute deer. Todaiji is one of Japan's most famous and historically significant temples and a landmark of Nara. The temple was constructed in 752 as the head temple of all provincial Buddhist temples of Japan and grew so powerful that the capital was moved from Nara to Nagaoka in 784 in order to lower the temple's influence on government affairs. 

Then experience a traditional tea ceremony. The Japanese tea ceremony is a graceful ritual centered around the preparation and serving of matcha (powdered green tea). Rooted in Zen philosophy, it emphasizes harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.

Walk across Nara Park on the way to visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Nara's most celebrated shrine. It was established at the same time as the capital and is dedicated to the deity responsible for the protection of the city.

Kasuga Taisha was also the tutelary shrine of the Fujiwara, Japan's most powerful family clan during most of the Nara and Heian Periods. Like the Ise Shrines, Kasuga Taisha had been periodically rebuilt every 20 years for many centuries. In the case of Kasuga Taisha, however, the custom was discontinued at the end of the Edo Period.

Overnight in Kyoto 
Meal(s): Breakfast

After breakfast and check out from the hotel, please make your own way to Kyoto train station and board the express train to Osaka station (10:36-11:02)

Meeting point: Osaka station platform
Tour duration: 11:00-20:00

Upon arrival meet with English-speaking guide on the station platform and explore in Osaka by public transportation. 
The Umeda Sky Building is an iconic Osaka landmark in the bustling Umeda district. Designed by celebrated architect Hiroshi Hara and completed in 1993, it consists of two 40-story towers linked at the top by the striking Floating Garden Observatory, approximately 1 73 m up—often likened to a futuristic Arc-de-Triomphe

You’ll visit to Osaka Castle: Toyotomi Hideyoshi intended the castle to become the center of a new, unified Japan under Toyotomi rule. It was the largest castle at the time. The castle tower is now entirely modern on the inside and even features an elevator for easier accessibility. It houses an informative museum about the castle's history and Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

Kuromon Market, a covered public market that stretches around 600 meters’ parallel to Sakaisujidori Street in the Minami area of Osaka. The market has about 150 shops that predominantly sell fish and meat, with other shops also purveying traditional sweets and low priced clothes & home ware.

Discover Dotonbori A dining mecca that has long been dubbed Osaka's entertainment district. It's known for its bright neon lights, energetic shopkeepers, and food vendors stocked with some local Osakan delicacies like takoyaki (squid balls) and fugu (poisonous puffer fish).

Head to Shinsekai district, filled with many restaurants.

Enjoy a Kushikatsu dinner: One of Osaka's most well-known delicacies is kushikatsu. It is a dish made up of different dishes that have been deep-fried, battered, and skewered. The choices include chicken and beef, pumpkin and asparagus, and desserts with bananas and ice cream. Although many of Shinsekai's kushikatsu eateries are open around-the-clock, it is at night when they really come to life.

Overnight in Osaka
Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

After Breakfast, Head on your own to Shin-Osaka Station to take the Bullet Train to Hiroshima. (8:26-10:02)

Meeting point: Hiroshima station platform
Tour duration: 10:00-18:00

Upon arrival, meet your English-Speaking Guide on the platform. After meeting, head out on your tour of Hiroshima by public transportation.

We’ll take a ferry to the island and visit the Itsukushima shrine, the source of both the island's fame and its name. Formally named Itsukushima, the island is more popularly known as "Miyajima", liter ally "shrine island" in Japanese, thanks to its star attraction. The shrine is known worldwide for its iconic "floating" torii gate.

However, the city rose from the ashes and the beautiful Peace Memorial Park and museum is now an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Atomic Bomb Dome has become a symbol of peace, visited by pilgrims from around the world and is a testament to the resilience of the city's people.

The tour will end at Hiroshima station. Board on your own the bullet train back to Shin Osaka station. (18:03-19:28) and make your own way to the hotel in Osaka.

Overnight in Osaka
Meal(s): Breakfast

After Breakfast, Head on your own to Shin Osaka station and board the bullet train to Tokyo station (12:30-14:57)

Meeting point: Station platform

Upon arrival, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel near Haneda airport by private car.

The rest of the day is free at leisure.

Overnight in Tokyo
Meal(s): Breakfast

Departure flight time: 9:45 am

Sadly, it’s the end of the tour and time to say goodbye to Japan.

Time at leisure until the transfer on your own to the airport.

End of services.
Meal(s): Breakfast