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.
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-go
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 Kyoto's Best UNESCO Heritage and Historical Sites With Nara Deer Park
Following breakfast at your hotel, embark on a comprehensive tour of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks and World Heritage Sites. Start with a visit to Nijō Castle, the former residence of the Tokugawa shoguns, famous for its elegant interiors and unique “nightingale floors.” Continue to the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a breathtaking Zen temple covered in gold leaf and reflected beautifully in its surrounding pond.
Next, explore the historic grounds of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, once home to Japan’s Imperial family.
Proceed to Nara and stroll through Nara Park, known for its friendly free-roaming deer. Visit the impressive Tōdai-ji, housing the magnificent Great Buddha statue, and conclude at Kasuga Taisha, renowned for its beautiful lantern-lined pathways.
Day 9
day 9 Gion, District Tea Ceremony, Bamboo forest, Kimono Dressing, 1000 Tori Gates
After breakfast at your hotel, begin a guided cultural journey through Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Explore the historic Gion district before visiting the stunning hillside temple Kiyomizu-dera, with time to stroll along the charming preserved lanes of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. Enjoy an authentic traditional tea ceremony experience, embracing the elegance of Japanese culture.
Continue to Arashiyama to walk through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, then admire the scenic beauty of the Katsura River and cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. Visit the vibrant Kimono Forest, with the opportunity to dress in a traditional kimono for memorable photographs.
Conclude your day at the famous Fushimi Inari Taisha, walking through its thousands of vermillion torii gates.
A perfectly curated day blending Kyoto’s historic streets, sacred temples, natural beauty, and timeless traditions.
Day 10
day 10 Kyoto - Osaka with Highlights in Osaka
After breakfast and hotel check-out in Kyoto, depart for Osaka, turning your travel day into an exciting sightseeing experience.
Upon arrival in Osaka, begin with a visit to the iconic Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous castles. Surrounded by impressive stone walls and scenic gardens, this historic landmark offers insight into Japan’s samurai era and provides panoramic city views from the top.
Continue to the peaceful Shitennō-ji, one of Japan’s oldest temples, known for its serene grounds and traditional architecture reflecting early Buddhist history.
Next, head to the striking Umeda Sky Building, where you can enjoy spectacular views from the Floating Garden Observatory, offering a 360-degree panorama of Osaka’s modern skyline.
For families or animal lovers, a visit to Tennoji Zoo provides a pleasant break within Tennoji Park, home to a variety of wildlife in a spacious urban setting.
Later, experience the lively atmosphere of Dōtonbori, Osaka’s vibrant entertainment district famous for neon lights, street food, and energetic city vibes. Enjoy a relaxing Dotonbori River cruise, offering a unique perspective of the bustling streets and iconic signboards from the water.
After a day blending history, culture, modern architecture, and entertainment, you will be dropped off at your hotel in Osaka to check in and unwind. Optional Sumo Wrestling Experience with a Bento Box and a Drink to sign off your Japan tour from just $119
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!
