The Experience

Embark on a journey through Japan’s most captivating cities, where timeless heritage meets modern energy. Begin in Tokyo, a dazzling metropolis where historic temples like Sensoji and serene gardens contrast with the neon brilliance of Shibuya and Shinjuku. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich traditions, futuristic skyline, and dynamic culture.

Travel by bullet train to Kyoto, Japan’s cultural jewel, where you’ll marvel at the Golden Pavilion, walk through the endless vermilion gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, and explore the atmospheric streets of Gion. Continue to Nara, in the Kinki region, home to the majestic Great Buddha at Todaiji Temple and the friendly free-roaming deer of Nara Park. Conclude your adventure in Osaka, a vibrant city famed for its street food, bustling markets, and the neon glow of Dotonbori.

From tranquil shrines to lively cityscapes, this itinerary blends the best of tradition and modernity across Japan’s most iconic destinations.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Tokyo (Saturday) Welcome to Japan! After completing customs, transfer by shared shuttle bus to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax. In the afternoon, you’ll receive details about the start of your journey.

Day 2 – Tokyo Highlights (Sunday) Discover the best of Tokyo on a guided city tour. Begin with Zojoji Temple for an iconic view of Tokyo Tower, then experience the energy of Shibuya Crossing. Visit Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace gardens, and the Nijubashi Bridge. Pass through Akihabara, Tokyo’s “Electric Town,” before exploring Asakusa’s Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Street. Lunch is included. In the evening, ride the metro to Shinjuku with your guide for dinner in the heart of Tokyo’s nightlife district.

Day 3 – Mount Fuji & Kawaguchiko (Monday) Travel to the Mount Fuji area, stopping at Arakurayama Sengen Park for a postcard-perfect view of the mountain. Visit Fuji Sengen Shrine before enjoying a boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko. Weather permitting, ascend to Mount Fuji’s Fifth Station for sweeping vistas. Tonight, stay in a traditional ryokan with the option to relax in an onsen hot spring. Dinner included.

Day 4 – Kawaguchiko • Iyashi no Sato • Nagoya • Kyoto (Tuesday) Journey along scenic lakes to Iyashi no Sato Nenba, a restored traditional village showcasing Japanese arts and crafts. Visit Shiraito Falls before continuing to Nagoya for a stop at the Toyota Museum. Later, arrive in Kyoto for your overnight stay.

Day 5 – Kyoto Exploration (Wednesday) Spend the day discovering Kyoto’s treasures. Visit Arashiyama’s Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryuji Temple, and the enchanting Bamboo Grove. Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and the Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji). End the day strolling through the historic Gion district, known for its geishas and old-world charm.

Day 6 – Kyoto • Nara • Osaka (Thursday) Travel to Nara to visit Todaiji Temple and see the Great Buddha before meeting the friendly deer of Nara Park. Explore Horyu-ji, Japan’s oldest Buddhist temple, then continue to Osaka. In the evening, discover the neon-lit streets and lively food culture of Dotonbori.

Day 7 – Himeji & Okayama (Friday) Visit Himeji Castle, Japan’s most spectacular fortress, before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant. Continue to Okayama to explore Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s most celebrated landscapes, and see the nearby Okayama Castle. Accommodation in Okayama (or nearby Kurashiki/Fukuyama on select dates).

Day 8 – Kurashiki • Hiroshima & Miyajima (Saturday) Stroll through Kurashiki’s preserved historic quarter before continuing to Hiroshima. Visit the Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, and Peace Museum for a moving reflection on the city’s history. Take a ferry to Miyajima Island to explore Itsukushima Shrine, famed for its “floating” torii gate. Dinner included.

Day 9 – Hiroshima • Matsuyama (Sunday) Ferry to Shikoku Island and ride a cable car to Matsuyama Castle. Visit Ishiteji Temple and then relax at Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest bathhouses. Lunch included.

Day 10 – Shikoku Highlights & Kobe (Monday) Climb to Kotohira Shrine, a major Shinto pilgrimage site, before visiting Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu. In Naruto, walk across a sea bridge with views of dramatic whirlpools below. Cross a series of scenic bridges en route to Kobe.

Day 11 – Kobe • Osaka (Tuesday) Visit Kobe’s Earthquake Memorial Museum (or alternative sites such as the Sake Museum or Kobe Tower on certain dates). Continue to Osaka for your final overnight stay.

Day 12 – Departure from Osaka (Wednesday) After breakfast, your Japanese adventure concludes with unforgettable memories of its culture, history, and natural beauty.

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