Star your trip in Tokyo, a bustling metropolis pulsating with modern energy, and explore the serene landscapes of Hakone. Dive into Kyoto's rich heritage, visit Hiroshima to pay respects and witness resilience, and experience the vibrant city life in Osaka. This thoughtfully curated itinerary offers a perfect blend of history, tradition, and urban vibrancy. Ideal for travelers seeking a concise yet comprehensive exploration of Japan, from the modernity of Tokyo to the historic significance of Hiroshima and the dynamic spirit of Osaka. Book now for an enriching and captivating adventure through Japan.
We can customize this trip by adding anything you're interested in and scheduling days to fit your pace. We would happily organize a unique theme or activities for birthdays, young children, anniversaries, etc.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
Honeymoon Planning 2025
I worked with Bert and he was super helpful in helping me plan a honeymoon trip to Japan. I have wanted to visit Japan for a really long time but the idea of planning a whole trip and taking in all Japan has to offer sounded like a huge amount of work and research. This planning experience took all those nerves away. I got both a summery of the trip and very detailed review of all the places on the itinerary. They have multiple ways to communicate, I choose to communicate by email. Bert was very professional and polite. Quick responses and follow up emails were sent to keep me on track with planning. More
, Apr 2024
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Customized Trip Planning
My experience with Alisa at Asia Highlights has been excellent. I wanted to customize my trip to South Korea and Japan. I made several changes and asked many questions which she answered promptly. My trip included only hotels and transportation because I wanted to explore on my own. This gave me the option to book my own tours if I want. I selected Asia Highlights because of the great reviews and booked because Alisa was helpful in planning my trip. More
JBC, Feb 2024
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Japan Tour
Alisa did a fantastic job, answering all my questions and catering to what I want for our upcoming Japan tour. The itinerary was so detailed! We are so excited for our trip! More
Theresa Beltran, Feb 2024
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Tour Route
Tour Highlights
Here are the fantastic attractions, the most must-do activities selected by Asia Highlights (AH Hand-Picked), and exclusive cultural experiences offered by Asia Highlights (Only With AH) included in this tour:
Learn about Japanese emperors by visiting the Imperial Palace and the Meiji Shrine.
Enjoy steaming matcha on a small island in the lake at Hamarikyu Garden.
Experience the breathtaking scenery of Hakone from multiple perspectives.
Absorb the profound message of peace in Hiroshima.
Suggested Itinerary for Inspiration
The itinerary serves as a mere example of a personalized tour, designed exclusively for you.
Your preferences will shape the authentic journey. We are fully prepared to craft an tailor-made tour that fulfills your desires.
Your private guide will be ready to meet and greet you at the arrival hall in Tokyo. A comfortable private car with an experienced driver will transfer you directly to your hotel. Your guide will help you to check-in.
Meiji Shrine: Commence your day at the serene Meiji Shrine, an homage to Emperor Meiji, an integral figure in Japan's history. Experience the tranquility of this sacred site, often bustling with traditional wedding ceremonies, a peek into Japanese cultural heritage.
Omotesando: Stroll down Omotesando, a broad, tree-lined avenue hosting flagship stores of top global fashion brands. Experience the stylish energy of this shopping street, known for its blend of modern and traditional architecture.
Asakusa & Sensoji Temple: Journey to Asakusa, a vibrant district capturing the essence of old Tokyo. Explore Sensoji, Tokyo's oldest temple, and meander through Nakamise, a historic street offering an array of local delights and traditional souvenirs.
Hamarikyu Garden: End your day at Hamarikyu Garden, an Edo Period Japanese garden harmoniously nestled amidst Tokyo's modern skyline. Experience the juxtaposition of traditional aesthetics within a futuristic cityscape. Take a serene moment to enjoy a cup of steaming matcha and Japanese sweets in a tranquil teahouse located on a small island within the garden's lake.
Hakone and Mount Fuji National Park Adventure: Escape the urban bustle of Tokyo and embark on a scenic 90-minute journey to Hakone, the gateway to the majestic Mt. Fuji and its surrounding national park. Your local guide will join you on the iconic "Romance Car" express train departing from Tokyo's vibrant Shinjuku station.
Zigzag through the Mountains on the Hakone Tozan Train: Hop aboard the Hakone Tozan switchback train, a thrilling ride that zigzags through the mountains, offering spectacular vistas of the surrounding valleys. The meandering journey provides unforgettable panoramic views of Hakone's natural landscapes.
Exploring the National Park's Marvels: Discover the diverse forms of transport available to delve into the wonders of the national park. Aboard the world's second-longest cable car, ascend Mt. Owakudani. Traverse over sulfurous fumes, bubbling hot springs, and thermal rivers in this volcanic expanse. Don't miss the opportunity to try a sulfuric hot spring-boiled egg, rumored to extend your life by seven years – an experience unique to Hakone's history and folklore.
Sailing Aboard the Majestic Pirate Ship: Embark on a voyage across Lake Ashinoko aboard a grand replica pirate ship, an ancient lake born from a volcanic eruption 3000 years ago. Traverse these historic waters and embrace the natural splendor of this breathtaking region.
Odawara (Hakone) to Kyoto by JR Train: Embark on an exhilarating train ride from Odawara (Hakone) to the historic city of Kyoto. Glide through picturesque landscapes aboard a JR Train in the comfort of the Standard Class. Revel in the convenience of a smooth, swift journey that spans approximately 2 hours and 6 minutes.
Get ready for a captivating day as you embark on a guided tour of Kyoto's cultural treasures and historical landmarks. Your knowledgeable local guide will navigate the city's comprehensive bus system, offering seamless travel to renowned World Heritage Sites.
Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion): Begin your day at this awe-inspiring temple, initially crafted as a shogun's retreat and later transformed into a revered Buddhist temple. Admire its splendor and picturesque setting, making it one of Kyoto's most iconic attractions.
Nijo Castle: Immerse yourself in the ornate architecture of this historic castle, surrounded by breathtaking gardens. Experience the intrigue of the famous "nightingale floors" and the captivating design that echoes the rich history of the Edo Shogunate.
Nishiki Market: Traverse a vibrant food hub! Stroll through this five-block-long market street, where over a hundred shops and restaurants offer a delightful array of fresh seafood, local produce, knives, cookware, and various Kyoto specialties. Discover the flavors of Japanese cuisine in a lively, bustling atmosphere.
Kiyomizu Temple: At the Kiyomizu Temple, relish panoramic vistas of Kyoto from the elevated veranda. Delve into the intriguing fact that the Main Hall and Veranda were meticulously constructed without nails or joiners. Although under repair, the temple remains a significant and picturesque Kyoto landmark.
Sanjusangendo: Visit this extraordinary temple, featuring Japan's longest wooden structure. Marvel at the 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The center holds a magnificent wooden statue of a 1000-armed Kannon, flanked by an assembly of 500 statues on each side, creating a captivating sight.
Set off on an enlightening journey from Osaka to Hiroshima using the Shinkansen, where your accompanied journey takes you back in time to the tragic events of August 6, 1945.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Upon arrival, you'll step into the poignant landscape of the Peace Memorial Park, marking the ground zero of the Atomic Bombing. This solemn site pays homage to the lives lost in the tragic event. Stroll through the park adorned with memorials, monuments, and statues, and visit the museum that vividly portrays the impact of that fateful day.
Miyajima Island: A short ferry ride away awaits the serene Miyajima Island, a place steeped in Shinto traditions and natural beauty. Here, you'll encounter the iconic 'Floating Torii Gate,' one of Japan's most photographed sites. This sacred gate belongs to a shrine rooted in ancient history and masterful architecture, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the harmonious shrines, temples, and picturesque surroundings, tasting local delights such as the famous maple-leaf shaped cakes.
Osaka Castle: Dive into the grandeur of Osaka Castle, an iconic symbol deeply rooted in Japan's history. Renowned for its crucial role in Japan's unification, this reconstructed masterpiece stands true to its original form, housing a modern museum that narrates Osaka's rich past.
Dotonbori: Wander through the energetic district of Dotonbori, once a theater hub now transformed into a bustling food haven. Indulge in Osaka's famed takoyaki, savory octopus dumplings that are a quintessential street food, amidst the lively streets teeming with vibrant neon signs and culinary delights.
Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum: Discover the beauty of 18th-century Japanese prints at the Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum. If available, engage in a hands-on woodblock printing experience to create your own art piece, a unique and immersive way to connect with Japan's artistic heritage.
Umeda Sky Building: Ascend the impressive Umeda Sky Building, a soaring 173-meter-high structure that offers a breathtaking panorama of Osaka's skyline. At the "Floating Garden Observatory" on the 39th floor, enjoy sweeping views of the cityscape and beyond, providing a captivating visual treat.
Our guide will help you transfer from your hotel to Osaka Airport for departure with independentcar/van and guide.
Our Service Includes:
- Private transfers and English-speaking tour guide
- All guided sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
- Hand-picked star-rating accommodations
- Breakfasts at hotels and lunches for every guided day
- Governmental taxes
Tour code: ah-jp-cx-8
Inquire now! Your 1:1 travel consultant will reply within 1 working day.
Why Asia Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)
- Save Your Time:
- Less research, more enjoyment!
- Real-time 1V1 expert planning
- Maximize Your Flexibility:
- Personal local guide and ride
- Explore at your own pace
- Celebrate Your Journeys:
- Specially-crafted family adventures
- Celebrate milestones with style!
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At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.