Day 1
day 1 Arrive Tokyo
Upon your arrival at Tokyo airport, a transfer will be arranged to take you to your hotel. This seamless process ensures a smooth transition, allowing you to relax and settle in comfortably after your journey. Enjoy the convenience and comfort of being transported directly to your accommodation in Tokyo, ready to embark on your adventures in this vibrant city.
Day 2
day 2 Sightseeing Bus Tour
Embark on a comprehensive Tokyo city tour following breakfast at your hotel, traveling comfortably aboard a coach to discover both renowned landmarks and lesser-known treasures. Commence your journey with visits to Meiji Jingu Shrine and the Imperial Palace before delving into lively districts such as Harajuku and Akihabara. Experience the allure of Asakusa, savoring authentic Uji Matcha tea and relishing a traditional Japanese pub lunch. Take in breathtaking vistas from Tokyo Sky Tree and embark on a picturesque Tokyo Bay Cruise. Wrap up your day with enduring memories of Tokyo's vibrant culture and magnificent scenery.
Day 3
day 3 Sushi Making Class
Following breakfast at your hotel, you're set to embark on a sushi-making tour with local lady instructors who speak English. This interactive session encompasses the art of crafting traditional Japanese dishes, featuring Nigiri, Inari, and Sushi Rolls. With a maximum class size of 8, expect tailored guidance and support from the instructors as you refine your sushi-making prowess. Unleash your creativity by exploring diverse ingredients to fashion your distinct sushi masterpieces. Immerse yourself in this culinary adventure, equipping yourself with valuable skills to dazzle your loved ones.
Day 4
day 4 Tokyo at Leisure
Today will be at leisure and you are free to explore the city on your own.
Overnight in Tokyo
Day 5
day 5 Tokyo - Takayama
Following breakfast at your hotel, make your way to the train station to board a train bound for Takayama. You will need to transfer twice, first at Odawara station and then at Nagoya station. Upon reaching Takayama, proceed to your hotel and commence exploring this enchanting and historically significant city celebrated for its impeccably maintained old town, traditional wooden residences, and stunning mountain vistas. Relish your time in Takayama and engage deeply in its vibrant culture and legacy.
Day 6
day 6 Guided Day Trip to Takayama and Shirakawa
Following breakfast at your hotel, proceed to Takayama Station where you'll rendezvous with your guide for an enthralling tour. Commence your journey by delving into the historic Takayama Jinya, a venerable local governor's office dating back over 300 years to the Edo period. Immerse yourself in its storied past and peruse artifacts spanning centuries.
Next, amble through the quaint downtown area of Takayama, affectionately referred to as the "Sanmachi," as your guide illuminates the area's highlights. Wrap up this segment of the tour at the Miyagawa Morning Market, where you'll have 1 hour and 30 minutes of leisure time to explore, shop, and relish in local delicacies.
Subsequently, embark on a scenic journey to Shirakawa-go, reveling in picturesque vistas along the way. Upon arrival, ascend to a renowned lookout point for awe-inspiring views of the town. Accompany your guide through the charming streets and verdant rice paddies of Shirakawa-go, renowned for hosting the largest aggregation of gassho-zukuri-style houses in Japan. Absorb insights into the town's highlights and history before savouring free time to further explore, enjoy lunch, or savor snacks along the main thoroughfare.
Finally, return to Takayama to conclude the tour, reflecting on the day's revelations and adventures.
Day 7
day 7 Takayama - Kyoto
Following breakfast at your hotel, proceed to the train station to board a train bound for Kyoto. You will need to transfer at Nagoya station during your journey. Upon reaching Kyoto, proceed to your hotel and get ready to delve into the city's rich history and culture. Take in the ancient temples, traditional tea houses, and scenic gardens that Kyoto has to offer during your visit.
Day 8
day 8 Full-Day Best UNESCO and Historical Sites Bus Tour
Following breakfast at your hotel, embark on a comprehensive tour of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks and World Heritage sites. Departing from Kyoto at 8 am, you'll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned coach to explore the city's rich history and cultural treasures. Highlights include visits to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Sanju-san-gen-do Temple, Arashiyama's Sagano Bamboo Forest, Tenryuji Temple, the Golden Temple (Kinkaku-ji), and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Indulge in a Japanese buffet lunch with picturesque views of Arashiyama's Togetsukyo Bridge. Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the bamboo groves and Japanese gardens, and walk through thousands of torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. The tour offers informative commentary from friendly guides and multilingual audio guides, ensuring an enriching experience. Upon conclusion, return to Kyoto Station, cherishing unforgettable memories of Kyoto's timeless wonders.
Day 9
day 9 Golden Pavilion and Todai-ji Temple from Kyoto
Following breakfast at your hotel, embark on a full-day excursion to explore the top temples and historic sites of Kyoto and Nara. Commence your journey in Kyoto, delving into its rich cultural heritage, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Nijo Castle and the iconic Kinkaku-ji, renowned for its Golden Pavilion and exquisite Japanese gardens. Take a tour of Kyoto's Imperial Palace to appreciate its architectural marvels and picturesque surroundings before indulging in a provided lunch. Then, venture south to Nara to visit Todai-ji, housing one of the world's largest Buddha statues, and Kasuga Shrine, famed for its myriad lanterns. Wrap up your tour at Nara's Deer Park, where you can interact with freely roaming deer. This comprehensive experience offers a captivating introduction to the ancient traditions and natural allure of Japan's historic cities.
Day 10
day 10 Kyoto - Osaka
Following breakfast at your hotel, proceed to the train station for your journey to Osaka. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel before embarking on a guided tour to uncover the hidden charm of Shinsekai and immerse yourself in authentic Osaka culture. Accompanied by two knowledgeable local guides, delve into a dynamic district where modern and traditional cuisines intersect.
Discover some of Japan's culinary delights, commencing with takoyaki (octopus-filled batter balls) and oden at a nearby stall. Continue your gastronomic exploration at an Izakaya restaurant, savoring Osakan specialties such as kitsune udon, yakitori, and kushikatsu. Explore quaint, traditional Japanese eateries offering nikudofu (beef and tofu stew) and gyoza dumplings. Conclude your culinary journey with tonpeiyaki (pork omelette) and karaage (Japanese fried chicken) at a distinctive Japanese establishment, accompanied by your preferred beverages. Enjoy a total of 13 delectable dishes, noting that availability may vary depending on the season and restaurant schedules.
Day 11
day 11 Departure
Your day begins with breakfast at the hotel, after which you'll finalize the check-out procedures in preparation for departure. You'll then be transferred to Osaka airport to catch your flight home. Wishing you a safe and enjoyable journey!
