2-Week Highlights of Japan in the Cherry Blossom Season

Irasshaimase! We would be excited to welcome you to Tokyo — the heart of Japan's vibrant culture and modern aesthetics!

Upon your arrival, your dedicated assistant will provide you with a warm meet and greet in the Arrivals Hall, ready to guide your group (a maximum of 7 people) through the vibrant city. This service includes:

• A personal assistant for a meet and greet
• Guidance towards your chosen ground transportation departure points

Please note that while we aim to make your journey as comfortable as possible, airport-to-hotel transfers are not included in this service. However, we highly recommend hailing a local taxi for a smooth and direct experience navigating through Tokyo's teeming streets. Enjoy your stay!

Embark on a captivating journey, showcasing Tokyo's vibrant mix of classic traditions and modern allure, on day 2's full-day tour.:

• Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. Wander leisurely amid the meticulously landscaped curations, savor the flourishing cherry blossom trees, and soak up the serene atmosphere of this city-based sanctuary.
• Experience the solemnity and grandeur of Meiji Shrine. Explore its enchanting tree-lined walkways, appreciate the appealing impact of its remarkable architecture, and soak up the serene aura of Tokyo's most-distinguished Shinto shrine.
• Get a taste of Tokyo's high fashion scene in Omotesando. Witness the latest worldwide fashion trends on display and immerse yourself in the dynamic vibe of this fashion-forward district.
• Uncover Tokyo's rich past in the historic Asakusa district. Embrace the lively vibe of its bustling streets and be awestruck by the architectural splendor of Senso-ji, an esteemed Buddhist temple of great significance, being Tokyo's oldest temple.
• Experience an aerial view of Tokyo's majestic cityscape with a visit to Tokyo Skytree. This is an opportunity to marvel at the city's stunning skyline undulating beneath you, ending your day of diverse Tokyo explorations.

Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple

Delve into the beauty and charm of Fujikawaguchiko, traveling from Tokyo for an unforgettable day trip filled with scenic landscapes and cultural delights:

• Bask in the spiritual energy of the revered Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine. Absorb the tranquil vibes and capture perfect photos of the spectacular Mount Fuji backdrop.
• Explore serene Lake Kawaguchi, a gem nestled in the scenic Fuji Five Lakes district. Soak up the picturesque views surrounding you as you breathe in the fresh mountain air.
• Engage in an exciting ride on the Mount Fuji Panoramic Cableway. Ascend to the mountain's peak for a breathtaking panoramic vista of Mount Fuji and the surrounding area.
• Delight your artistic side at the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, housing an exquisite collection of silk artwork by the renowned artisan, Itchiku Kubota.
• Journey to Oshino Hakkai, with its awe-inspiring eight ponds and the must-see Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan, a traditional open-air museum that showcases a preserved farming village.
• Complete your day with a musical retreat at the Kawaguchiko Music Forest, where the enchanting sounds of music boxes and automated musical instruments create a mesmerizing experience for every visitor.

As your day tour comes to a close, you will be transferred back to Tokyo, leaving you enchanted with vivid memories of Fujikawaguchiko's panoramic landscapes and rich heritage.

Appreciate Mt. Fuji in the Five Lakes area

Immerse yourself in an exquisite fusion of Tokyo's vibrant food culture and soothing waterfront scenes:

• Revel in the dynamic atmosphere of the famed Tsukiji Fish Market, where a lively seafood fair brimming with an array of Tokyo's freshest catches awaits you.
• Satiate your culinary curiosity with a unique sushi-making experience. Master the craft of creating this iconic Japanese delicacy under the tutelage of sushi connoisseurs, and delight in your own creations during lunch.
• Serene moments await you on a soothing Sumida River cruise. Let the tranquil rhythm of the river provide you with a fresh vantage point to appreciate Tokyo's waterfront charm.
• Engage in the beautiful tradition of hanami (flower viewing) along the Sumida River. A multitude of cherry blossoms adorning the riverbanks invite you into a soothing connection with nature and deep-rooted local customs.
• Cap off your day amid the futuristic allure of Odaiba, a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. Stand in awe of its impressive skyline, innovative architecture, and the myriad of entertainment opportunities that it offers. This distinct Tokyo experience is sure to enhance your day of diverse explorations.

The local railway in spring

• Savor a fascinating journey through noodle history in CupNoodles Museum Yokohama. Uncover the smart inventiveness behind a simple noodle cup that swayed the world and changed instant food culture forever.
• Enjoy an invigorating Yokohama cycling experience that offers you a chance to behold the city's fascinating sights and sounds up close.
• Dive into a gastronomic adventure at Yokohama Chinatown, one of the largest Chinatowns globally. Indulge in the myriad of authentic flavors offered by countless eateries and food stalls.
• Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Sankeien Garden, a traditional Japanese garden known for its beautifully-landscaped ponds, streams, and historical buildings from across Japan.

After absorbing Yokohama's wonders, the day comes to a close as you are transferred back to Tokyo, enriched by the vibrant impressions of your day trip to this mesmerizing city.

The Spring of Yokohama

Embrace an exciting transition from the bustling cityscape of Tokyo to the culturally-rich enclaves of Kyoto:

• Commence your journey aboard the Nozomi (or Hikari, due to the high demand) train. Revel in the comfort and efficiency of Japan's renowned railway system as you traverse the changing landscapes between the cities.
• To add polish to your transfer, a private vehicle will be at your disposal, facilitating a smooth transition from your accommodation in Tokyo to the train station and, likewise, from Kyoto train station to your hotel in Kyoto.

Delight in the convenience and luxury of your travel day, resting and preparing for the exciting explorations that await you in Kyoto, the epitome of Japanese culture and tradition.

The Togetsukyo Bridge in the Arashiyama area in spring

Engage in a journey that allows you to experience the fulcrum of Japan's traditional culture, deep-rooted heritage, and architectural marvels in Kyoto:

• Discover the captivating beauty of Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), one of Kyoto's historical treasures, which is blanketed in gold leaf. It offers an enchanting sight as it shimmers over the reflective pond before it.
• Get a glimpse of Japan's feudal past at Nijo Castle. Navigate your way around the ornate interiors and expansive gardens, immersing yourself in the striking blend of architectural prowess and historical significance.
• Treat your senses to a delightful culinary adventure at the Nishiki Market. Traverse the vibrant stalls offering a variety of local delicacies and fresh produce — a true gastronome's paradise.
• Immerse yourself in one of the most iconic symbols of Japanese traditions with a kimono-wearing experience. Step into the elegant world of Japanese attire and cultural heritage.
• Experience the old-world charm of Gion, Kyoto's most famous geisha district, adorned with wooden machiya townhouses, teahouses, and exclusive ochaya (geisha establishments).
• Find serenity at Pure Water Temple. Its soothing surroundings include a beautiful wooden terrace overlooking a verdant forest on the city's mountainous outskirts. It's a fitting place to look back on an enlightening day of exploration in Kyoto.

The old street of Gion District in spring

Embark on an exploration shedding light on Kyoto's sylvan landscapes, spiritual enclaves, and rich tradition:

• Take a moment to appreciate the subtle elegance of Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), a Zen temple standing as a symbol of wabi-sabi (the aesthetic of simplicity and modesty in Japanese culture).
• Experience tranquility along the Philosopher's Walk, a scenic pathway lined with hundreds of cherry trees. This path is a favorite for contemplative walks, named after innovative Kyoto University philosopher Nishida Kitaro (1870–1945) who, it is said, trod the path daily.
• Further your serene journey with a hanami (flower viewing) along the Philosopher's Walk. Immerse yourself in the gorgeous spectacle of blooming cherry blossoms — a visual treat that's deeply rooted in Japanese tradition.
• Explore the vast precincts of Nanzen-ji, renowned for its stone garden and striking aqueduct, showcasing a unique blend of nature and architecture.
• Delight in a sensory experience at the Gekkeikan Sake Brewery, where you can learn about the traditional sake-making process and partake in sake tasting.
• Your day wouldn't be complete without a visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its captivating torii gate tunnels. Let the thousand vermilion gates lead you into a wonder-filled exploration of this renowned Shinto shrine.

The the Philosopher's Walk in spring

Set off on a remarkable journey transitioning from Kyoto's tranquil traditions, through Uji's distinctive tea culture, to the ancient marvels of Nara, before culminating in the bustling energy of Osaka:

• Begin your day with a one-of-a-kind matcha-making experience in Uji, Japan's green tea hub. Partake in the grinding of tea leaves, witness their transformation into matcha, and relish the delicious result of your efforts in an engaging tea ceremony.
• Upon arrival in Nara, interact with the charming, free-roaming deer, and experience a wider and wilder hanami (flower viewing) at Nara Park. Let the natural beauty unfold as you amble along paths lined with cherry blossom trees threading their way through this vast park.
• Find tranquility within the vermilion lantern-lit confines of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled amid a serene forest. Its timeless presence leaves an unforgettable impression.
• Immerse yourself in Japanese Buddhism's heritage at history-filled Todai-ji — one of the Seven Great Temples of Nara housing a majestic bronze Buddha.

Concluding your day of profound exploration, we will facilitate a seamless transfer to Osaka, setting the stage for your discovery of its spirited ambiance and gastronomic delights in the days to follow.

The pagoda in the temple with cherry blossoms

Engross yourself in a day teeming with insightful historical tales, compelling cultural engagements, and striking modern landmarks in the spirited city of Osaka:

• Set your sights on stunning city vistas from the Umeda Sky Building. The open-air observation platform offers panoramic views of the city that simply take your breath away.
• Enter the expansive Osaka Castle Park, dominated by majestic Osaka Castle, a testament to the city's warriors' heroic valor during the turbulent feudal era.
• Enhance your historical understanding at the Osaka Museum of History. Navigate through chronological exhibits that recount the city's evolution from a traditional port to a contemporary metropolis.
• Enjoy yourselves in the energetic ambiance of Dotonbori, a bustling entertainment district. With vibrant neon lights, plentiful eateries, and entertaining street performances, Dotonbori epitomizes Osaka's energetic spirit.
• Get swept into Japan's powerful visual storytelling tradition at the Kamigata Ukiyo-e Museum. The art pieces on display encapsulate the vivid Emaki-style narratives that were a precursor to modern manga.
• Participate in a ukiyo-e printing experience, gaining a practical understanding of the intricate ukiyo-e printing process. Craft your own piece of this rich art under the watchful eyes of experienced guides.

The Osaka Castle in spring

Embark on a poignant journey of remembrance and hope as you traverse from the lively adventures of Osaka to the historical notoriety of Hiroshima:

• Begin your journey with a convenient transfer from your hotel in Osaka to the train station. From there, board the efficient Nozomi destined for Hiroshima. Revel in the comfortable seating and smooth ride as the landscape swiftly changes around you.
• Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a somber reminder of the tragic past and a beacon of hope and peace. Pay tribute to the victims of the devastating atomic bomb and contemplate the call for world peace that resonates throughout the city.
• Complete your insightful exploration at Shukkeien Garden. This manicured landscape, replete with miniature sceneries, traditional teahouses, and an idyllic pond, offers you perfect tranquility interspersed with bursts of vibrant seasonal colors.

Savor the authenticity of Hiroshima as you retire for the night in this city, humbled by its past and invigorated by Japanese resilience.

Hiroshima Victims Memorial Cenotaph

Delve into the spiritual heart of Hiroshima and bid adieu to this city of historic dismay, before journeying back to the energetic ambiance of Osaka:

• Begin your day by paying homage at Itsukushima Shrine. This history-laden Shinto shrine, with its grand 'floating' torii gate, is an iconic site set against the backdrop of scenic Miyajima Island.
• Once you've completed your exploration, you will be transferred from your hotel in Hiroshima to the train station, marking the start of your return trip to Osaka aboard the Nozomi.
• Upon your arrival in Osaka, you will benefit from a hassle-free transfer service from the station to your hotel, allowing you to rest and recall the marvelous experiences that Hiroshima offered and prepare for your next day's adventures in Osaka.

A charming Miyajima Island view

Immerse yourself in a delightful blend of Osaka's intriguing culinary culture, spiritual tranquility, and immersive leisure destinations:

• Kick-start your day in the buzzing neighborhood of Shinsekai with a half-day gastronomic adventure. Delve into the heart of Osaka's food culture, savoring local delights and becoming a part of the vibrant street food scene.
• Pay your respects at Namba Yasaka Shrine, uniquely embodying a lion's head structure. This shrine is a spiritual oasis in the midst of Osaka's bustling city center and is known for its New Year rituals to ward off evil.
• Take a plunge into the underwater world at Interactive Aquazoo, NIFREL. This interactive zoo combines aquarium, zoo, and art exhibit elements, offering a truly immersive experience, fostering understanding and respect for varied life-forms.
• Bask in nature's lap at the vast Expo '70 Commemorative Park. Explore its gardens, cultural objects, and various installations, all commemorating the 1970 Japan World Exposition.
• Unleash your competitive spirit at VS PARK LaLaport Expocity, where numerous interactive sports await you. Whether you're a professional athlete or a casual participant, the enjoyment is limitless at this expansive entertainment complex. It's a truly wholesome way to wrap up your day of various experiences in Osaka.

Discover the vibrant Shinsekai with us!

Facilitate your smooth transition from your hotel to the airport by arranging your chosen means of transport. We propose resorting to taxis for their ease and convenience, and the hotel personnel will be happy to aid you in securing one.

Say goodbye to Osaka and Japan as you set off toward home, carrying with you the unforgettable reminiscences gathered during your remarkable journey through the Land of the Rising Sun.

Sayonara and may your onward journey be filled with safety and serenity!

The Kansai International Airport in Osaka