Konnichiwa Osaka.  Upon arrival at Osaka airport, you will be met by our representative who will assist you with your transfer to your Hotel.  Check-in and relax (standard check-in time 3:00 Pm). Stay overnight in Osaka.

After breakfast, you'll meet your private guide for a full-day exploration of Osaka. Your tour begins with a visit to the iconic Umeda Sky Building, a striking skyscraper made up of two towers connected at the top by the "Floating Garden Observatory" on the 39th floor. From here, enjoy panoramic views of the city both through large windows and from the open-air observation deck.

Next, you'll head to the historic Osaka Castle. Originally constructed in 1583, the castle was designed to become the heart of a unified Japan under Toyotomi rule. At the time, it was the largest castle in the country. Although it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, your guide will walk you through its fascinating history and cultural significance.

Then, enjoy a hands-on experience with a sushi-making session with lunch.

In the afternoon, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of the Dotonbori district. Here, you'll have the chance to join a round-trip sightseeing cruise departing from Dotonbori. Relax on a comfortable, covered cruise equipped with restroom facilities as you take in Osaka’s famous neon lights and riverside views.

During the cruise, snap photos of the enormous moving crab sign at Kani Douraku, glide past the colorful Dotonbori Main Store, and see the iconic Glico Man sign—a legendary billboard first installed in 1935 to advertise the Glico confectionery brand.

After having some free time in Dontonburi, you'll return to your hotel for the evening.

Overnight in Osaka

Today, we journey to the historic city of Nara to explore one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks—Todaiji Temple. This renowned temple houses the Great Buddha of Nara, an enormous seated statue of Rushana-butsu, also known as the “Cosmic Buddha.” After taking in the temple’s grandeur, enjoy some time outdoors at Nara Deer Park, where you can interact with the park’s famously friendly and free-roaming deer.

From Nara, we continue on to Kyoto, Japan’s former capital for over a millennium. Here, we’ll visit the renowned Fushimi Inari Shrine, the head shrine of thousands of others across Japan dedicated to Inari—the Shinto god of rice, prosperity, and foxes. What makes this shrine truly unforgettable is its striking tunnel of thousands of vermillion torii gates, winding their way through the forested slopes of sacred Mount Inari.

Overnight in Kyoto

After breakfast, meet your private guide to begin a full-day journey through the cultural treasures of Kyoto.

Your first stop is the Kyoto Imperial Palace, which served as the residence of the Imperial Family from 794 to 1868, during the centuries when Kyoto was Japan’s capital. You'll have the opportunity to stroll through the palace grounds and admire the traditional architecture and elegant gardens, which have only recently been opened to the public.

Next, head to Arashiyama—Kyoto’s second most popular sightseeing area, known for its scenic beauty and historic charm. A key highlight here is the enchanting Bamboo Forest, one of the most iconic and photographed spots in the city. Walking through this towering grove of bamboo is like stepping into another world—peaceful, mysterious, and unforgettable.

The tour continues with a visit to the world-famous Kinkakuji, also known as the Golden Pavilion. This stunning Zen Buddhist temple, covered in brilliant gold leaf, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Kyoto’s cultural splendor. Surrounded by reflective ponds and serene gardens, it’s a place that invites peace, reflection, and a deep sense of beauty.

Add-on Green Tea Ceremony with Kimon Rental and Photo Shoot - USD TBA (Minimum 6 travelers)
Enjoy a Japanese tea ceremony experience, that provides an engaging induction to the traditional tea ceremony. This activity dates back hundreds of years and is the most idealistic pastime of ancient Japan. In this ceremony you will have an opportunity to wear traditional kimono robes, taste the green matcha tea and eat unique Japanese sweets specifically made to match the tea's flavour.

After the ceremony you return to your hotel and have the evening at leisure.  

Overnight in Kyoto

After breakfast, we’ll head to the train station to board a high-speed Shinkansen bound for Odawara. Feel the excitement as the bullet train whisks you across the countryside at speeds of up to 320 km/h (200 mph)—a quintessential experience of modern Japan.

Upon arrival at Odawara Station, you’ll meet your guide and continue to your hotel in Hakone. From there, the day’s exploration begins with a visit to the renowned Hakone Shrine. Be sure to have your cameras ready—this day promises stunning landscapes and iconic photo opportunities.

One of Japan’s most recognizable scenes is the striking red torii gate of Hakone Shrine, appearing to float on the waters of Lake Ashi with Mount Fuji towering in the background. Today, you’ll have the chance to witness this breathtaking sight in person. Deeply rooted in Japanese history and tradition, Hakone Shrine has long been regarded as a spiritual place, with the surrounding mountains once believed to be the passageway for souls traveling to the afterlife. The shrine, founded over a century ago, was created by combining several sacred sites from the area and has played an important role in Japanese culture ever since.

Next, enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi, formed in the caldera of Mount Hakone after its last eruption 3,000 years ago. The tranquil waters, often reflecting the majestic Mount Fuji on clear days, make for a truly memorable and peaceful experience.

After your tour, you’ll return to your hotel. In the evening, relax and rejuvenate in a traditional onsen (hot spring bath), followed by a delightful dinner served in the comfort of your accommodation.

Overnight in Hakone

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we’ll head to Hakone, where you'll board a scenic 20-minute ropeway ride from Togendai to Owakudani. This area, formed by a volcanic eruption of Mount Hakone around 3,000 years ago, is still considered an active volcanic zone. You’ll encounter steamy hot springs, bubbling rivers, and the distinct smell of sulfur in the air. On clear days, Owakudani also offers stunning views of the iconic Mount Fuji.

From Hakone, we’ll continue our journey by private coach toward Mt. Fuji. As we travel, take in the ever-changing landscapes—from lush forests to open lowlands and drifting clouds. Weather permitting, we’ll stop at the Mt. Fuji 5th Station to admire the majestic mountain up close.

In the afternoon, we make our way to Tokyo. Upon arrival in Tokyo, Check-in and relax.

Overnight in Tokyo

In the morning, you meet your private guide and start your first half-day tour of Tokyo.  First, you see from the outside the incredible Imperial Palace to get a taste of Japanese culture. Notably, The Imperial Palace has served as the residential place of successive Emperors since 1868. Then you have a visit to the Tokyo Sky Tree, a television broadcasting tower, and the tallest structure in Japan. Its observation decks offering spectacular views over Tokyo are the highlights of the tower. You visit the deck located at the height of 350 meters (1148 feet), so make sure to have your camera and phone charged! After that, you will visit Asakusa Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo, and learn the legend of how this temple was built. The temple is known to bring good luck in almost anything, so make sure to make a wish! Here you can feel the traditional Japanese culture the moment you step onto the temple grounds. After the tour, you return to your hotel. The next stop on the itinerary is Shibuya, Tokyo's paradise for shoppers. Despite the abundance of stores, it's probably best known for its crosswalk. As soon as the traffic lights turn red, pedestrians are free to roam wherever they like. Moreover, it is a symbol of modern Japan and of Tokyo itself: action in all directions. People are constantly pouring across the street from all directions, three huge television screens mounted on the buildings flash all day, and the area is covered with lights. The intersection is a popular filming location for movies, and it has appeared in the films Lost in Translation and The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, as well as numerous music videos and newscasts. Hence, this is one of the things that travelers can experience only in Japan. Before leaving, take a moment to snap a photo with the beloved Hachiko Statue, a tribute to Japan’s most loyal dog and his touching story of devotion.

Before returning to your hotel, you explore Ginza, Japan's premier shopping, dining, and entertainment district, which has one of the most expensive real estate in all of Japan.

Overnight Stay in Tokyo

Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace in Tokyo. Take this free day to explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, uncover hidden gems, or revisit some of your favorite spots. Whether you're in the mood for shopping in Shibuya, soaking in the culture of Asakusa, savoring fresh sushi at Tsukiji Market, or simply relaxing at a local café while people-watching, the day is completely open for you to spend as you wish. Alternatively, you may choose to pre-book one of our suggested add-on experiences to enhance your day with curated activities or guided tours.

Add-on Half day Tokyo,  Meji Shrine, Harajuku, Akihabara, Odaiba - USD TBA (Minimum 6 travelers)
Begin your tour in the heart of Tokyo. The first stop on the tour is the iconic Meiji Jingu Shrine, one of Japan's most renowned Shinto shrines. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji, it is nestled within a lush forest that makes you feel like you're a world away from the bustling city of Tokyo. Next, pass through the fashionable Harajuku and Omotesando shopping districts, as well as the National Diet Building, the symmetrical and striking home of Japan’s parliament, completed in 1936. After soaking in Japan’s rich history, the coach will take you through Akihabara, Ueno, and Kappa-Bashi market street, where you'll encounter a variety of kitchen goods, from Japanese ceramics to realistic food replicas and finely crafted knives. The final stop of the day is Odaiba, where you’ll embark on a scenic Tokyo Bay Cruise. Glide under the impressive Rainbow Bridge and take in the breathtaking views of Tokyo’s skyline. After a refreshing and scenic cruise, you'll return to your hotel to unwind.

Add-on - Team Lab Planet with transfers  USD TBA (Minimum 6 travelers)
Explore the immersive exhibits within teamLab Planets TOKYO, a must-see attraction on any visit to Tokyo. Discover digital art installations made of lights, sounds, and different materials to delight all five senses. Enter teamLab Planets TOKYO and discover the incredible immersive art exhibition within. This full-body digital art experience allows visitors to enter completely into the artworks, with stimulation for all five senses. In this unique exhibition, each visitor’s presence impacts the artwork to finally become a part of it. The exhibition space includes several areas, covering over 10,000 square meters in total. Explore the great variety of installations, with different lights, sounds, and materials to mesmerize every guest.

Overnight in Tokyo

Today marks the end of your Japan Tour. After breakfast spend some time at leisure. You will be transferred to Tokyo airport for your return flight home.