HOME - TOKYO, JAPAN
Overview
Welcome to Japan! After completing customs procedures, you’ll be transferred to your hotel by shared shuttle bus. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. In the afternoon, you’ll receive details about the start of your tour.
Meals
★Breakfast: Own Arrangement/ ★Lunch: Own Arrangement / ★Dinner: Own Arrangement
Hotel
4-star City Hotel
CITY TOUR of TOKYO
Overview
In the morning, we’ll enjoy an extensive guided tour of this truly mesmerizing city, lasting approximately five hours. Tokyo’s vibrant energy and cutting-edge neighborhoods coexist beautifully with its tranquil, serene spaces. We’ll begin with a brief stop at Zojoji Temple, where you’ll capture one of the most iconic views of the Tokyo Tower. The temple grounds are adorned with hundreds of Jizo statues, intricately carved stone figures believed to be protectors of children, dressed in colorful knit caps, bibs, and windmills. Next, we’ll head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, often hailed as the busiest intersection in the world, followed by a visit to the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife. Our journey will continue by bus along the elegant Omotesando Avenue. We’ll then see the most picturesque parts of the Imperial Palace and its gardens and stop to admire the iconic Nijubashi Bridge. As we proceed, we’ll pass through the vibrant Akihabara district, also known as the “Electric Town,” a hub for Japanese manga and anime culture. We’ll also drive past the Kokugikan, Japan’s renowned sumo wrestling arena. We’ll conclude our tour in Asakusa, visiting the historic Sensoji Temple and the famous Nakamise Street. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant. Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel. At 18:30 pm, we’ll meet our guide in the hotel lobby and take the metro (tickets included) to the lively Shinjuku district. Here, we’ll enjoy a stroll through its bustling streets, renowned for their vibrant nightlife, as we head to a local restaurant for dinner. Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel by metro, accompanied by our guide.Important Note: - For groups with fewer than five passengers, the city tour will be conducted using a “Hop-On Hop-Off” tourist bus. These buses follow routes covering Tokyo’s most iconic attractions, allowing you to disembark, explore points of interest, and reboard the next bus at your convenience.
Meals
★Breakfast: Included / ★Lunch: Included / ★Dinner: Own Arrangement
Hotel
4-star City Hotel
TOKYO - MOUNT FUJI - KAWAGUCHIKO
Overview
Scenery: Beautiful mountain landscapes, and magnificent views on the way up Mount Fuji. 08:00 am – Departure. We’ll head toward the beautiful Mount Fuji region, traveling through picturesque countryside. 10:00 am – Kawaguchiko. This charming town is known for its small houses, colorful flowers, and scenic lake surrounded by mountains. We’ll start our visit at Arakurayama Sengen Park, famous for its stunning pagodas and offering some of the most iconic and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Next, we’ll visit Fuji Sengen Shrine, a serene and magical spot surrounded by tall, ancient trees. This shrine marks the traditional starting point of pilgrimages to Mount Fuji. Here, we’ll take a moment to express gratitude for the opportunity to visit such a remarkable place. 12:30 pm – Enjoy a relaxing 30-minute boat ride on the serene waters of Kawaguchiko Lake. 14:15 pm – After lunch, we’ll begin the ascent to Mount Fuji along a scenic road leading to the Fifth Station, situated at an altitude of 2,305 meters. The journey offers incredible views of lush forests and majestic landscapes. You’ll have time to experience the lively atmosphere of this spot popular with tourists and mountaineers, stroll through the area, and visit its small shrine. 16:15 pm – Departure from Mount Fuji. 17:00 pm – Kawaguchiko. You’ll have some free time to take a stroll by the lake before we check into a Ryokan (a traditional Japanese inn). We recommend taking advantage of the onsen (Japanese public bath) at the Ryokan for a truly unforgettable and relaxing experience. Note:- At the planned ryokan, some rooms feature traditional Japanese-style tatami mats, while others are Western-style. Occasionally, accommodation may be arranged in a Western-style hotel.
- Bring warm clothing, as temperatures on Mount Fuji can be quite low.
- In winter, the ascent to Mount Fuji may be closed due to snow or adverse weather conditions. During this season, we will go as far as permitted.
Meals
★Breakfast: Included / ★Lunch: Own Arrangement / ★Dinner: Own Arrangement
Hotel
4-star City Hotel
Kawaguchiko - Iyasi no Sato Nenba - Toyota - Kyoto
Overview
08:30 am – Departure from Kawaguchiko. We’ll travel along a scenic road bordered by the picturesque Kawaguchi and Saiko Lakes. 09:00 am – Iyashi no Sato Nenba. This charming mountain village, once destroyed by a typhoon in 1966, has been beautifully restored as a traditional open-air museum. Its historic houses now serve as arts and crafts shops, restaurants, and cultural museums, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rural heritage. 10:00 am – Departure from Iyashi no Sato Nenba. 10:45 am – Arrival at Shiraito Falls. We’ll admire these breathtaking waterfalls, considered one of the most beautiful in Japan, with cascades that reach a height of 20 meters. 11:45 am – Departure from Shiraito Falls. Free time at a service for lunch. 15:15 pm – Admission included to the Toyota Museum, a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts.16:45 pm – Departure from the Toyota Museum. 19:00 pm – Kyoto. Accommodation and free time.Note: - Wear comfortable walking shoes for our visit to Shiraito Falls.
Meals
★Breakfast: Included / ★Lunch: Own Arrangement / ★Dinner: Included
Hotel
4-star City Hotel
KYOTO
Overview
We’ll spend the entire day exploring Kyoto, Japan’s capital from 794 to 1868 and home to the Imperial Court. Remarkably, Kyoto was the only major Japanese city spared from bombing during World War II, allowing it to retain its rich artistic heritage. Notably, the Kyoto Protocol, aimed at limiting greenhouse gas emissions, was signed here in 1997.We’ll include a visit to Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Our tour will begin in Arashiyama, where we’ll admire the Togetsukyo Bridge, or “Bridge over the Moon.” This spot offers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding landscape.We’ll then visit the Tenryuji Temple, one of Kyoto’s “five great Zen temples” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by a serene walk through its mystical bamboo forest.Next, we’ll explore the magnificent Fushimi Inari Shrine; the Imperial Palace; and the Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the “Golden Pavilion,” surrounded by its spectacular gardens. (The order of the visits may vary.)After the tour, you can enjoy some time to stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s vibrant traditional district, known for its lively atmosphere and geishas.
19:00 pm – Afterward, we’ll provide a transfer to Gion, Kyoto’s traditional and lively district, famous for its Geishas. You’ll have time to stroll and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic neighborhood. The return to the hotel will be on your own. We recommend taking a taxi, and your guide will explain how to do so.
Meals
★Breakfast: Included / ★Lunch: Own Arrangement / ★Dinner: Own Arrangement
Hotel
4-star City Hotel
Kyoto - Nara - Osaka
Overview
08:00 am - Departure from Kyoto.
09:00 am - Nara. Our visit will take us to Todaiji Temple, a spectacular Buddhist site built in 752. The temple houses a giant Buddha statue and is surrounded by a serene park where you can interact with the friendly deer that roam freely. This will be your chance to take photos and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this historic area.
10:30 am - Departure from Todaiji Temple.
11:15 am - Horyuji Buddhist Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into Japan’s ancient spiritual heritage. Here, you can explore its seminary, monasteries, and temples, including the iconic main pagoda, one of the world’s oldest wooden buildings and the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan. Horyuji remains an important place of worship and historical significance.
12:45 pm - Departure from Horyuji. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant before we continue to Osaka.
14:30 pm - Osaka. Arrival in Japan’s second-largest city, known for its modern skyline and vibrant culture. After check-in, you’ll have free time to explore.
In the evening, we’ll visit Dotonbori, a bustling and colorful district famous for its lively nightlife, neon signs, and excellent dining options. Enjoy the evening at your leisure.
Meals
★Breakfast: Included / ★Lunch: Included / ★Dinner: Own Arrangement
Hotel
4-star city hotel
Osaka - Himeji Castle - Okayama - Korakuen Garden - Okayama
Overview
Scenery: Densely populated areas, major highways, with occasional sea views. 08:00 am – Departure from Osaka. We’ll head towards Osaka Bay. 09:45 am – Himeji. Admission to the stunning Himeji Castle is included, a masterpiece of traditional Japanese castle architecture. After exploring the castle, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. 13:00 pm – Departure from Himeji. 14:30 pm – Okayama. We’ll visit Korakuen Garden, renowned as one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens, featuring lakes, waterfalls, and traditional teahouses. By crossing a pedestrian bridge over the river, you’ll have the opportunity to visit Okayama Castle, a sixteenth-century Japanese fortification rebuilt in 1966 after being destroyed in a World War II bombing (visit inside the castle not included). Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore the city, an active provincial capital with just over 700,000 inhabitants. 17:30 p.m. – Arrival at the hotel for accommodation.Note:- If there are long queues at the castle, we recommend enjoying the beautiful surrounding gardens instead.
- On some dates, we may stay in Fukuyama or Kurashiki. The visit to Kurashiki may take place on the same day in the afternoon.
Meals
★Breakfast: Included / ★Lunch: Included / ★Dinner: Own Arrangement
Hotel
4-star City Hotel
Okayama - Kurashiki - Hiroshima - Itsukushima - Hiroshima
Overview
Scenery: Pleasant views and a serene boat trip to Miyajima. 08:00 am - Departure from Okayama. 08:30 am - Kurashiki. This charming city boasts a beautifully preserved historic center, where you’ll have time to stroll through its picturesque streets and soak in its old-world atmosphere. 10:00 am - Departure from Kurashiki. 12:30 pm - Hiroshima. Arrival in this city, known worldwide for its tragic history as the site of the atomic bombing in 1945. We’ll visit the Peace Memorial, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and the poignant Peace Memorial Museum. After the visits, you’ll have time for lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll head to the outskirts of Hiroshima to board a small ferry for a 15-minute ride to Miyajima, an island renowned for its spiritual significance as a place where "man lives alongside the Gods." Here, we’ll visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, dedicated to the guardian of the seas and famous for its torii gate that appears to float on the water. You’ll have time to explore the shrine and wander through the charming center of the island.19:00 p.m. - Departure from Miyajima. We’ll take the ferry back and continue to Hiroshima, where dinner will be included. Note:- The order of visits in Hiroshima may vary, with the possibility of visiting Miyajima first and Hiroshima afterward.
Meals
★Breakfast: Included / ★Lunch: Own Arrangement / ★Dinner: Included
Hotel
4-star City Hotel
HIROSHIMA - MATSUYAMA
Overview
Scenery: Fascinating views onboard as we pass by a multitude of islands. Today, we’ll board a ferry to Shikoku Island, a pleasant journey of just over two and a half hours that offers insight into Japan, a nation composed of many islands. If there are no schedule changes, our ferry will depart at 09:20 a.m. (departure from the hotel at 08:00 am).12:00 pm – Matsuyama – arrival. We’ll take a cable car or chairlift to visit its impressive castle. Afterward, we’ll visit Ishiteji, a stunning Buddhist temple and important pilgrimage site. Lunch will be included.Later in the afternoon, we’ll include admission to Dogo Onsen, a traditional Japanese bathhouse built in the 19th century.Note: - We highly recommend experiencing Japan’s Onsen culture. There are specific customs that will be explained to you, such as gender-separated baths and the requirement to thoroughly clean yourself before entering the hot water naked. Please be aware that some Onsen facilities may deny entry to individuals with tattoos.
- We recommend enjoying the journey from the deck; bring warm clothing.
Meals
★Breakfast: Included / ★Lunch: Included / ★Dinner: Own Arrangement
Hotel
4-star City Hotel
Matsuyama - Kotohira - Takamatsu - Naruto - Kobe
Overview
Scenery: Pleasant mountainous landscapes in some areas. Passage over large suspension bridges across the sea. 07:30 am – Departure from Matsuyama. 10:00 am – Kotohira. We’ll visit a Shinto shrine dedicated to the God of sailors, a pilgrimage site located on Mount Zozu, accessible by climbing 785 steps. For those who prefer not to climb, the base of the mountain offers a lively tourist area and a small sake museum (Japan’s traditional distilled beverage). 12:00 pm – Departure from Kotohira.13:00 pm – Takamatsu. We’ll visit Ritsurin, one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant.15:00 p.m. – Departure from Takamatsu. 16:15 p.m. – Naruto. We’ll stop at an impressive bridge that crosses the sea. Here, we’ll explore its fascinating construction and walk on its glass floor to admire the stunning sea whirlpools (visible depending on the schedule and tides) from 45 meters above. 17:15 p.m. – Departure from Naruto. Enjoy beautiful scenery as we cross large suspension bridges. 19:00 p.m. – Kobe. A modern city by the sea, where you’ll have the chance to stroll through its lively downtown area.Note: - Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Meals
★Breakfast: Included / ★Lunch: Included / ★Dinner: Own Arrangement
Hotel
4-star City Hotel
Kobe - Osaka - Mount Koya
Overview
After breakfast, we’ll visit the Earthquake Memorial Museum, a site dedicated to remembering the tragic earthquake that struck the city in 1995 and showcasing its remarkable reconstruction. 10:30 am - Departure from Kobe and continuation toward Osaka. 11:15 am – Osaka, Japan´s second-largest city. We’ll make a brief technical stop in Osaka only if required for the start or end of a tour for any passenger. 12:00 pm - Departure from the city toward the sacred mountain of Koya, the most important center of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. We’ll stop for lunch along the way. This magical pilgrimage site is home to 120 temples and monasteries. We’ll visit the Okuno Mausoleum, a deeply spiritual place and vast cemetery set in nature, with over 200,000 graves. We’ll also visit the Kongobuji Temple, built in 1593. We will spend the night in a Buddhist monastery. The monks will guide us through a Zen meditation practice (Ajikan). Dinner will be included (vegetarian meal). If you wish, you can attend the early morning religious ceremony at the temple.Notes:- On certain dates, the visit to the Earthquake Museum may be replaced by a visit to the Sake Museum or a trip up Kobe Tower.
- Staying at the monastery is considered a highly valuable experience. The rooms are simple, without private bathrooms, and follow traditional Japanese style with tatami mats. Bathrooms are shared.
- We cannot guarantee the meditation practice during peak tourist dates. Since accommodation capacity in the temples on Mount Koya is limited, in some cases, we may accommodate groups in nearby hotels (with half board included).
Meals
★Breakfast: Included / ★Lunch: Own Arrangement / ★Dinner: Included
Hotel
4-Star City hotel
Mount Koya - Kyoto
Overview
We’ll begin the day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at the temple. At first light, we’ll depart for Kyoto, where you’ll have a full day of free time to explore. Our guide will provide recommendations to help you make the most of your day and visit the most captivating sights in this stunning city.
Meals
★Breakfast: Included / ★Lunch: Own Arrangement / ★Dinner: Own Arrangement
Hotel
4-star City Hotel
Kyoto - Tsumago - Matsumoto - Nagano
Overview
Scenery: Beautiful countryside views. 08:00 am - Departure from Kyoto. We’ll set out for Tsumago, passing through picturesque rural landscapes. 11:15 am - Tsumago. This charming village, renowned for its traditional wooden houses, is one of the most beautiful places in Japan. You’ll have free time to explore, and lunch will be included at a local restaurant. 13:30 pm - Departure from Tsumago.14:45 pm - Matsumoto. Arrival in this vibrant city, where we’ll visit the stunning 16th-century castle, known as the “The Crow.” Afterward, enjoy free time to discover this bustling tourist hub. 18:00 pm - Departure from Matsumoto.19:15 pm - Nagano.Note: - On some tours, we may not stay overnight in Nagano but instead in the town of Matsumoto.
Meals
★Breakfast: Included / ★Lunch: Included / ★Dinner: Own Arrangement
Hotel
4-star City Hotel
Nagano - Monkey Park - Kusatsu - Ikaho
Overview
Scenery: Today, our journey will take us through the stunning Japanese Alps, showcasing breathtaking mountain landscapes. Early in the morning, in Nagano, we’ll visit the Zenkoji Temple, a significant pilgrimage site housing the first Buddhist image brought to Japan. Guests will have the unique opportunity to participate in the Gomakuyo ceremony, believed to bring good luck. 10:30 am - Departure from Nagano. We’ll travel through the high mountains. 11:30 am - Monkey Park. Here, you’ll enjoy a delightful walk through lush forests with rivers and thermal springs, home to colonies of Japanese monkeys that bathe in the natural hot springs. Lunch will be included. 13:45 pm - Departure from the park. Our journey will continue through spectacular mountain scenery, reaching altitudes of up to 2,172 meters and passing by semi-active volcanoes.15:00 pm - Kusatsu. This charming spa city features a vibrant main square and a beautiful city park with outdoor onsen. Enjoy some time to stroll and immerse yourself in the relaxing atmosphere. 17:45 pm - Departure from Kusatsu. 19:15 pm - Ikaho. Arrival in this picturesque spa town, known for its historic center with charming staircase streets. We’ll stay at a Ryokan, a traditional Japanese-style hotel, where you can continue enjoying the soothing baths. A traditional Japanese dinner will be included. Notes:- During the autumn, the movement of the monkeys can be unpredictable due to the availability of fruit in the mountains. If the macaques do not descend to the park, it may be closed.
- Visits to Kusatsu may be canceled from November to April due to weather conditions.
- On certain dates, accommodation may be provided in nearby towns such as Takasaki or Maebashi, in a Western-style hotel.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the Monkey Park.
Meals
★Breakfast: Included / ★Lunch: Included / ★Dinner: Included
Hotel
4-star City Hotel
Ikaho - Nikko - Tokyo
Overview
We continue onour way to NIKKO, and in this fantastic town we will visit the impressive Nikko-Toshogu Templewith its room with the sound of a dragon. We will also see the Taiyuinbyo mausoleum, an impressive place full of peace. After this a stroll by the river inKanmangafuchi, Hundreds of Jizos watch us! We will have free time in the centre before leaving forTOKYOonce more. Arrival in Tokyo at around 18:30pmin the evening. End of our services.Note:- Please check the time of your flight in case you might need an additional night. The transfer from the hotel to the airport is NOT included.
Meals
★Breakfast: Included / ★Lunch: Own Arrangement / ★Dinner: Own Arrangement
Hotel
Book Extended Stay Hotel (Optional) $$