Begin your trip in Tokyo, a bustling metropolis teeming with modern energy, then immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Kyoto, renowned for its historic temples and traditional arts. Finally, experience the vibrant urban life in Osaka, known for its modern architecture and bustling street markets. This well-structured itinerary offers the perfect blend of tradition, history, and contemporary allure, ideal for travelers seeking a concise exploration of Japan's diverse facets, from the modernity of Tokyo to the cultural depth of Kyoto and the lively ambiance of Osaka. Book now for an immersive adventure through Japan's iconic cities.
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:
Delight in the captivating panorama of Tokyo city from the heights of the renowned Sky Tree Tower.
Learn about Japanese emperors by visiting the Imperial Palace and the Meiji Shrine.
Dive into Japan's vibrant traditions with sushi-making, a matcha tea ceremony, and ukiyo-e printing.
Enjoy an exciting journey aboard the famous Shinkansen bullet train.
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 Jingu Shrine: Stroll through the tranquil grounds of Meiji Jingu Shrine, an oasis of calm in the heart of bustling Tokyo. The serene forest paths and the shrine's peaceful ambiance offer an enchanting escape. Immerse yourself in Shinto traditions by making offerings, selecting charms, or inscribing wishes on ema plaques. Witness the grace of traditional wedding processions on Sunday mornings, an authentic and charming sight.
Sensoji Asakusa: Delve into Tokyo's ancient heritage by visiting Sensoji, the city's oldest temple. Marvel at the sacred Kannon statue and the temple's grandeur, enclosed by majestic gates and an iconic five-story pagoda. Traverse Nakamise Dori's vibrant stalls, where you can soak in the spiritual aura, experience the aroma of holy smoke, and seek your fortune, making it a must-visit on your Japan trip.
Anime Cafe Experience: Engage in the excitement of Japan's renowned pop culture with a visit to an anime-themed cafe in Tokyo. Whether you're a die-hard anime enthusiast or simply curious, these cafes offer a unique experience, blending trendy themes with delicious treats. It's a chance to savor a bit of Japan's creative and fun side that's hard to find elsewhere.
Harajuku's Fashion & Flavors: Explore Harajuku, a fashion mecca nestled between Shibuya and Shinjuku. Wander through Takeshita Street, where boutiques display the latest fashion trends amidst vibrant, photo-friendly treats. Witness a mosaic of styles, from gothic to colorful decora kei, and punk aesthetics. Stop by for delightful snacks like classic crepes, rainbow grilled cheese, oversized cotton candy, or indulge in Korean hattogu treats. Don't miss Cat Street's hipster cafes, vintage fashion outlets, and international brands towards Shibuya.
Tokyo Skytree: Rise above Tokyo's skyline at Tokyo Skytree, standing tall at 634 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. On clear days, the vista doesn't stretch into infinity, but it's one of the rare spots where you can catch a glimpse of majestic Mt. Fuji from Tokyo.
Sushi-Making Experience with Lunch: Delve into the fascinating world of sushi from sea to plate in this immersive experience. Embark on a guided tour of one of the world's largest seafood markets, discovering the intricacies of fish procurement, distribution, and sales. Later, under the guidance of a skilled sushi master, learn the art of creating nigiri sushi. Cap off the hands-on experience by savoring your culinary creations during a delightful lunch session.
Shibuya: Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Shibuya, the beating heart of Tokyo, exuding the essence of youth culture. Don't miss the iconic scramble crossing that has become a symbol of the city. It's a bustling area, showcasing trendy fashion, a lively atmosphere, and a dynamic pulse that captures the city's spirit.
Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto by Nozomi Train in Standard Class (Ticket Only): This ticket-only package provides access to the Nozomi Train, enabling you to travel comfortably between Tokyo and Kyoto. Please make your way to the station and utilize your ticket to board the Shinkansen bullet train, known for its efficiency and speed.Travel Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 21 minutes.
Upon arriving at the station in Kyoto, you'll be responsible for making your way to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy at your leisure.
Nijo Castle: Located in Kyoto, Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site among the seven Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. The expansive site includes two concentric rings of fortifications, the Ninomaru Palace, the remains of the Honmaru Palace, and exquisitely designed gardens.
Nishiki Market: Situated in downtown Kyoto, Nishiki Market spans between Teramachi and Shinmachi, offering a wide array of local eats and traditional goods for visitors to explore and enjoy.
Gion Corner (Geisha Shows): Gion Corner, dedicated to preserving traditional Japanese arts and culture, showcases various daily performances. These include Kyomai Dance, a graceful and traditional dance performed by apprentice (maiko) and professional geisha (geiko) from Kyoto; Bunraku Puppet Theater, a centuries-old puppetry art form portraying historical events and legends; Koto Harp, a 13-stringed zither that has been played for over a millennium; the Tea Ceremony, emphasizing harmony and tranquility; and Gagaku Court Music, featuring ancient Japanese court music with diverse instruments. Performances vary according to Gion Corner's schedule.
Fushimi Inari Shrine: Situated on the outskirts of Kyoto, the Fushimi Inari Shrine is a sacred religious site known for its elegant layout, recognized from the movie "Memoirs of a Geisha." The lane lined with red-painted torii (memorial arches) provides an excellent backdrop for photos.
Unleash the fun for your family in Osaka after the serene temple visits! Begin at Expocity, an expansive entertainment complex built on the grounds of the 1970 Universal Exposition. It's a historic site from the first-ever world fair in Asia.
Explore Expo Commemoration Park, sprawling over the former fairground. Discover its iconic Tower of the Sun monument, created by the renowned artist Taro Okamoto, within one of Kansai's most extensive green spaces.
Your adventure continues at the NIFREL museum, a creation from the minds behind Osaka Kaiyukan, the world's largest aquarium. NIFREL isn't just an aquarium, zoo, or art museum—it's an innovative experience for all your senses. Featuring over 2,000 animals of 150 different species, including rare Japanese creatures, it offers a unique and interactive environment unlike any other.
Journey to the VS Park, an exhilarating virtual reality sports arcade nearby. Tickets are included, providing you with up to 2 hours of immersive virtual adventures.
For lunch, head to central Osaka for a unique experience. Witness the incredible displays of hyper-realistic food samples outside Japan's eateries. Explore a sample laboratory where these incredibly detailed dishes are crafted from special wax. Follow the staff's guidance to create two sushi-shaped samples, which you can keep as one-of-a-kind souvenirs—one of them even becomes a keychain.
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-9
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.