Tokyo

Upon your arrival in Tokyo, Japan, head to your hotel on your own.Welcome to Tokyo! Once you arrive and check in at the hostel you’ll then have plenty of time to recover from your flight and relax before you meet everyone in your group. If you require airport pick-up service, please let us know in advance. We can arrange a private transfer from the airport to your hotel for you. Please note that this service comes with an additional cost. Accomodation： ✔ Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu The tour includes accommodation in standard 4-star hotels by default. The hotels listed above are the default options for your reference. In case they are fully booked, we will arrange a hotel of the same standard.

Ueno Park

After breakfast, we will visit Ueno Park, the first park in Japan and one of the most famous cherry blossom viewing spots, boasting over 1,300 cherry trees. During the blooming season, the park presents a dreamlike beauty with pink petals falling amidst the clear chirping of birds. Besides enjoying the cherry blossoms, you can also visit museums and art galleries within the park at your own expense, such as the Tokyo National Museum (closed on Mondays) and the National Museum of Western Art (a UNESCO World Heritage site).

Senso-ji Temple

Next, we'll explore Senso-ji Temple, built in 645 AD, one of Tokyo's oldest and most famous Buddhist temples and another great spot for cherry blossom viewing. The temple grounds are dotted with tall cherry trees, offering picturesque views of the temple or Skytree framed by cherry blossoms. Entering through Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), with its giant red lantern and statues of Fujin (wind god) and Raijin (thunder god), leads to Nakamise Shopping Street, an ancient shopping street lined with shops selling Japanese snacks, crafts, and souvenirs. Beyond this lies the Hozomon (Treasure House Gate) and the main hall where many come to pray. Adjacent to the main hall stands a five-story pagoda symbolizing the five elements of Buddhism: earth, water, fire, wind, and void.

Meiji Jingu Shrine

In the afternoon, visit Meiji Jingu, an important Shinto shrine located in central Tokyo that enshrines Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Passing through the largest wooden torii gate in Japan, you enter a serene environment surrounded by towering ancient trees. Along the southern approach, you'll find barrels of sake from breweries across Japan on one side and wine barrels from Burgundy on the other, a unique sight. Many locals come here to pray for various blessings, and it is also a popular venue for ceremonies like naming newborns, coming-of-age rites, graduations, and weddings. The shrine offers beautiful traditional Japanese garden scenery complete with large trees, clear ponds, bridges, and paths.

Shibuya Crossing

Finally, head to Shibuya Crossing, one of Tokyo's iconic landmarks and reportedly one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world. It attracts tourists from around the globe eager to experience and photograph the bustling scene. This location has been featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials. If interested, you may also visit the statue of Hachiko, a symbol of loyalty and love located outside Shibuya Station. After exploring, return to the hotel for rest.

Mount Fuji

Today’s journey will revolve around Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic active volcano and highest peak, known for its perfectly symmetrical conical shape. It is one of the must-see highlights when visiting Japan.

Arakurayama Sengen Park

After breakfast, you will first visit Arakurayama Sengen Park, one of the best spots to view Mount Fuji from a distance. Upon arrival, you can take a 20-minute walk to Arakurayama Sengen Shrine, dedicated to the mountain deity. Here, you’ll experience the shrine’s peaceful atmosphere and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Then, continue walking up the stairs to the observation deck at the top, where you can capture the iconic view of Mount Fuji framed by the five-story pagoda. If you visit in spring or autumn, you may also enjoy stunning cherry blossoms or vibrant red maple leaves.

Lake Kawaguchiko

Next, you will head to Lake Kawaguchi, another prime location for viewing Mount Fuji. The lake offers crystal-clear reflections of the mountain on calm days. Here, you can take a scenic boat cruise to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of the area. Alternatively, you may choose to stroll along the lakeshore and explore nearby parks, art galleries, and museums. After the tour, you will return to your hotel in Tokyo for rest. Tips: The best time to view Mount Fuji is from December to February, when the weather is clear and the summit is covered in snow. April–May (cherry blossom season) and October–November (autumn foliage season) are also excellent times to visit. Viewing Mount Fuji can be affected by weather conditions — it may not be visible on cloudy or rainy days. This is a long day tour (over 8 hours), and additional fees may apply for extended service of the guide, driver, and vehicle.

Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto by Shinkansen (Bullet Train), and enjoy free time to explore Kyoto at your own pace. Kyoto Travel Recommendations: Stroll along the Philosopher's Path: This is a approximately 2-kilometer-long streamside path lined with cherry trees. During the blooming season, the path turns into a stunning cherry blossom tunnel, offering especially beautiful scenery. Walk along the Kamo River: The Kamo River is another scenic walking route in Kyoto. The river flows through central Kyoto with crystal-clear water, and its banks are lined with many cafes and restaurants, most of which have open-air terraces—perfect for enjoying leisure time.

Kiyomizudera Temple

After breakfast, we will visit Kyoto's oldest temple, Kiyomizudera Temple, which was founded in 778 AD. It is famous for its "Kiyomizu Stage," a wooden stage that juts out from the main hall and is designated as a National Treasure of Japan. The construction of the main hall is considered an architectural marvel, built without using a single nail. Within the temple grounds, there is a spring divided into three streams, said to bring longevity, wisdom, and health, attracting many visitors who come to drink its water. Kiyomizudera is also a renowned spot for cherry blossom viewing, with its slopes covered in blooming sakura during spring, creating an exceptionally beautiful scene. We will also provide you with a complimentary light pink sakura-flavored ice cream, which you can enjoy under the cherry trees while savoring this limited-time springtime sweetness or taking the perfect spring photo.

Sannenzaka Ninenzaka

Next, we will take a leisurely walk to explore the well-preserved Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, charming sloped streets lined with traditional Japanese shops and tea houses. Strolling through these areas feels like stepping back into old Kyoto, where you can browse local specialty shops, taste local snacks, or find a café to relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

Maruyama Park

Following that, we will head to Maruyama Park located in the heart of Gion. This is Kyoto's most famous cherry blossom park, renowned for its weeping cherry trees near the shrine. You can wander beneath the cherry blossoms, experiencing a unique spring romance, or visit the shrines and enjoy other spring landscapes within the park.

Gion

We will then tour Gion, Kyoto's largest and most famous geisha district. Here, you may encounter geishas dressed in elegant kimonos with traditional makeup. You can stroll along the quiet streets of Gion, admiring the well-preserved machiya (wooden townhouses), ochaya (teahouses), and traditional Japanese restaurants. As dusk falls, the lanterns in Gion light up, and you might see geishas and maikos on their way to appointments, adding a special charm to the scenery. Finally, you will have the opportunity to learn and experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in an elegant setting, appreciating the allure of Japanese tea culture. Afterward, return to your hotel in Kyoto to rest.

Kinkakuji Temple

After breakfast, we will visit one of Kyoto's iconic landmarks, Kinkakuji Temple, also known as Rokuon-ji. Founded in 1397, it was originally the villa of Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and later converted into a Zen temple. It was designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 1994. The Shariden, or reliquary hall, is a three-story pavilion covered in gold leaf, commonly referred to as the Golden Pavilion. On clear days, the shimmering reflection of the pavilion on the pond in front creates a stunningly beautiful scene. During the autumn foliage season, the golden temple contrasts beautifully with the surrounding mountainside of red leaves.

Nijo Castle

Next, we will proceed to another UNESCO World Heritage site, Nijo Castle, which was built in 1603 as the residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu during his stays in Kyoto and served as a symbol of the power of the Tokugawa shogunate. It played a significant role in Japanese history until the return of power to Emperor Meiji in 1867. Here, you can explore the well-preserved Edo-period castle architecture and view artworks from that era, as well as learn about its defenses, such as high walls, moats, and the "nightingale floors" designed to alert residents to intruders. The Ninomaru Garden, designed by tea master and landscape architect Kobori Enshu, is also highly recommended for its beauty.

Sagano Romantic Train

Following this, we will head to Arashiyama in western Kyoto and take a ride on the Sagano Scenic Railway, also known as the Sagano Romantic Train. This train runs along the Hozugawa Canyon, offering scenic views of forests and mountains, especially enchanting during spring when cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

Tenryuji Temple

We will then visit Tenryuji Temple, located south of the bamboo grove. Founded in 1339, it is the head temple of the Tenryuji school of Rinzai Zen Buddhism and one of Kyoto's five great Zen temples. The temple's buildings and inner garden, which cleverly incorporate views of Mount Kameyama and Arashiyama, reflect the elegance of Japanese aristocratic culture and the subtleties of Zen Buddhism. In cherry blossom season, the pink and white flowers add an extra layer of beauty to the tranquil temple scenery.

Togetsukyo Bridge

Exiting the temple and walking a short distance to the right, you'll reach Togetsukyo Bridge, a landmark wooden bridge featured in the Detective Conan movie "The Crimson Love Letter." Though the river water level may not be high, the picturesque view of the old bridge, mountains, and river remains captivating. After finishing your exploration, return to your hotel in Kyoto for rest.

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

After breakfast, you will visit one of Kyoto's most iconic sites, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, established in 711 AD. It is one of the most popular shrines in the Kyoto area and among the most beautiful in Japan, dedicated to the god of rice, Inari, and other associated deities. Many locals come here to pray for bountiful harvests, business prosperity, and safe travels. Behind the main hall, there is a path leading up Mount Inari lined with hundreds of vermilion torii gates, a scene that appeared in the movie "Memoirs of a Geisha" and has become one of Kyoto's most representative sights, attracting many visitors. (Tip: A round trip hike to the top takes about two to three hours; it is recommended to go only as far as the Yotsutsuji intersection halfway up, where you can also enjoy views over Kyoto. Reaching Yotsutsuji takes about 30-40 minutes.)

Nara

After the visit, you will travel by bus for approximately 1.5 hours to Nara, which was once Japan's oldest capital, Heijokyo, located in the heart of Kansai, forming a golden triangle with Kyoto and Osaka. This city embodies the early blossoms of Japanese civilization, offering enchanting scenes of ancient temples coexisting with friendly deer herds, making it a healing travel destination through time.

Todai-ji Temple

Upon arrival in Nara, you will first visit Todaiji Temple, founded 1200 years ago, one of the oldest temples in Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall) is the world's largest wooden structure, housing a 16-meter-tall bronze statue of the Vairocana Buddha, the largest bronze Buddha in the world. Here, besides visiting the temple and experiencing its tranquil atmosphere, you can learn about Todaiji's history and the profound Buddhist culture with your guide.

Nara Park

Next, take a walk to nearby Nara Park, famous for its gentle and adorable deer that roam freely. You can buy some deer crackers to feed these delightful creatures, who may bow to you for food, adding to the charm. However, be mindful during interactions to avoid provoking them and risking injury.

Kasuga Taisha Museum

Finally, visit Kasuga Taisha, Nara's most famous shrine, established in 768 to protect Heijokyo and pray for national prosperity. Also a World Heritage site, it enshrines four deities protecting the Fujiwara clan and today serves as an important place of worship throughout Japan. Nestled at the foot of Mount Kasuga, the shrine is surrounded by lush greenery. Upon entering, you'll find a sanctuary for prayers and wishes, followed by the main hall. Notably, a series of copper lanterns hang between the west corridor and the Naikudono, complementing the vermilion architecture and serving as a popular photo spot. After the day's exploration, you will return by bus to your hotel in Osaka, a journey of about one hour.

Osaka

Osaka is one of the "Three Great Cities of the Edo Period" in Japan. It has long been known for its thriving commerce and reputation as a food paradise, making it a sacred place to enjoy Japanese specialties like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), as well as a window into Japan's historical and cultural heritage.

Osaka Castle Park

Today, your journey will begin at Osaka Castle Park, one of Japan's most iconic landmarks and a symbol of Osaka’s glorious history. Once the largest castle in Japan, it features defensive structures such as moats, gates, and stone walls that you can explore within the park. At the center of the castle grounds stands the Tenshukaku (keep), symbolizing the power of the feudal lord. You can also take a peaceful walk through the Nishinomaru Garden west of the keep, a picturesque spot with over 600 cherry trees that bloom beautifully from late March to early April, creating a stunning view of cherry blossoms contrasting against the castle.

Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum

Next, you will visit the Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum, where you can learn about Kamigata ukiyo-e, a woodblock print art form originating in the Kamigata region (modern-day Osaka and Kyoto) during the Edo period. These prints often depict kabuki actors in a realistic style without artificial embellishment, offering a vivid glimpse into life during that era.

Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street

In the afternoon, head to Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street, Osaka’s most famous shopping district, and Dotonbori, the city’s iconic food street. Here, you can indulge in retail therapy, admire traditional Japanese street architecture, and savor local delicacies such as takoyaki, yakitori, okonomiyaki, sushi, and more.

Namba Yasaka Shrine

Later, continue to Namba Yasaka Shrine, one of Osaka’s oldest shrines. The shrine is best known for its impressive lion-headed gate facing the entrance, which greets visitors with an open mouth full of golden teeth—an awe-inspiring sight. Interestingly, the lion’s mouth serves as a performance stage for festivals and events, with its eyes acting as lights and its nose as a speaker. *Suggested activity during free time: Visit Shinsekai, a historic district famous for its nostalgic atmosphere that gives visitors a sense of stepping back into the Showa era. The area's iconic landmark is the Tsutenkaku Tower, a 108-meter-high observation tower modeled after the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and one of Osaka's most representative scenic spots. Strolling through the neighborhood, you can experience both the charm of old Japan and the allure of modern urban life.

Osaka

Depart from Osaka and transfer to the airport on your own. If you require airport drop-off service, please let us know in advance. We can arrange a private transfer from your hotel to the airport for you. Please note that this service comes with an additional cost.