Begin in Tokyo, a bustling metropolis, and discover the vibrant culture of Yokohama. Enjoy the serene landscapes of Hakone and delve into the ancient traditions of Kyoto. Visit Nara, known for its historic temples and friendly deer, and experience the contemporary vibe of Osaka. This thoughtfully curated itinerary provides a perfect blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and modern city life. Ideal for travelers eager to experience the diverse facets of Japan, from the dynamic streets of Tokyo and Yokohama to the ancient treasures of Kyoto, Nara's serenity, and Osaka's urban energy. Book now for an unforgettable journey 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.
Japan, Vietnam extraordinary
The professionalism and knowledge of their cities speak high of all the guides. Jennifer in Tokio was so special that on the last day in Tokio she went to the train station to make sure we boarded the right train, and brought us snacks to take with us. NG in Kyoto suggested us to make up a day to go to Hiroshima, we got the approval from Asia Highlights and he went with us to visit this historic city. More
Francisco Miranda, Oct 2024
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Amazingly good experience!
Alisa was responsible for the Japan period and in a week at most we had figured it out as it was done 15 days before our trip; that said we are from Brazil which means that China is 11 hour ahead of us and that was no impediment at all. More
Andrea J, Sep 2024
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Tokyo Meiji Shrine with a great guide, Johnny!
He explained colorful background stories -- more than this review can hold, but if you are fortunate enough to have Johnny as your guide, you will learn so much more (and enjoyably) than if you go on your own. His knowledge, friendliness and flexibility to conform a tour to his clients' needs is remarkable. We recommend him to family and friends alike who are traveling to Japan. More
Anne Green, Sep 2024
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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.
Experience the breathtaking scenery of Hakone from multiple perspectives.
Understand Japan more deeply by visiting Kyoto's World Heritage Sites.
Take a leisurely stroll through Nara Park and interact with over 1,200 tame deer.
Tour Route
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: Tranquility in the Heart of Tokyo. Meiji Jingu Shrine boasts serene walking paths amidst a forested oasis within bustling Tokyo. Participate in traditional Shinto activities, from offering prayers at the main hall to purchasing charms or writing wishes on an ema. Sunday mornings offer a charming sight with traditional wedding processions. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a picnic in Yoyogi Park after your shrine visit. Note that during the New Year (1st to 3rd Jan), the shrine gets busy due to its significance as the most worshiped shrine in Tokyo.
Sensoji Asakusa: Tokyo's Iconic Spiritual Haven. Explore Sensoji, Tokyo's oldest temple, housing the sacred statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The vibrant Nakamise Dori market, alongside the impressive gates and the five-story pagoda, forms an essential part of your Japan trip, offering a lively marketplace and spiritual experiences.
Tokyo Skytree: A Panoramic Vista of Tokyo. Rising 634 meters high, Tokyo Skytree offers stunning panoramic views of Tokyo, providing a glimpse of Mt. Fuji on clear days. It stands as a distinctive spot to witness the city's grandeur.
Harajuku: Trendsetting Mecca. Harajuku, located between Shibuya and Shinjuku, is the pulse of contemporary fashion and culture in Tokyo. Wander through Takeshita Street to witness the latest trends, from eclectic boutique styles to photo-worthy food spots. The area offers an array of fashion styles, from goth and decora to punk, alongside delightful snack stops serving everything from classic crepes to innovative rainbow grilled cheese and oversized cotton candy. Venture further to Cat Street for a fusion of hip cafes, vintage fashion, and international brands.
Pokemon Center: Discover the World of Pokemon. Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Pokemon at the official Pokemon Center. These renowned stores are a hub for Pokemon enthusiasts, offering an extensive range of products and exclusive items that go beyond what standard Pokemon shops provide.
Shibuya: Tokyo's Dynamic Epicenter. Shibuya, the energetic heart of Tokyo, is an essential stop for experiencing the city's trendy youth culture. Don't miss the iconic scramble crossing and the lively atmosphere that defines this bustling district.
Nintendo Tokyo: Gamer's Paradise in Shibuya. Located within Shibuya Parco's Cyberspace floor, Nintendo Tokyo is a haven for all Nintendo fans. From the latest games to unique merchandise, this outlet offers an array of items, including exclusive 'Animal Crossing' inspired products and a variety of character-themed clothing and everyday items. Experience the gaming corner, complete with TVs and consoles to try out the newest titles.
GUNDAM Factory Yokohama: Where Anime Comes to Life. Yokohama, with its historical buildings and stunning scenery, presents a cityscape brimming with culture. GUNDAM Factory Yokohama is where the world of "Mobile Suit Gundam" is brought to life. Experience the marvel of Japanese manufacturing and the iconic animated character in various motions, invoking famous scenes from the series.
Explore Tokyo's Technological Marvels: A Journey through Innovation. Begin your day at the MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM: EPSON teamLab Borderless. Step into a world where art and technology converge, offering a mesmerizing experience with its immersive projection mapping and interactive illusions, igniting the imagination.
Continue your adventure at the Museum of Emerging Science, a treasure trove of exhibits showcasing the forefront of innovation. Delve into topics such as environmental issues, robotics, and more, unveiling the latest advancements in science and technology.
Conclude your day with a ride on Tokyo's monorail, whisking you back to the heart of the city. Embrace the vibrant pulse of Akihabara, Tokyo's Electric Town. Discover the district's renowned electronic shops, where a dazzling array of cutting-edge gadgets awaits, making it a haven for tech enthusiasts.
Hakone Exploration: Unveiling Nature's Wonders. Explore the wonders of the National Park through a variety of exciting transport options. Ascend Mt. Owakudani via the world's second-longest cable car, offering spectacular views of sulfurous fumes, natural hot springs, and the volcanic landscape. Don't miss the opportunity to savor a hard-boiled egg cooked in the famed sulfuric hot springs, said to add seven years to your life!
Embark on a journey aboard a majestic replica pirate ship, gracefully gliding across Lake Ashinoko, a serene body of water born from a volcanic eruption 3000 years ago. For a unique experience, hop on the Hakone Tozan "switchback train" as it winds through the mountains, treating you to breathtaking vistas of the lush valleys that surround you.
Embark on an enriching 8-hour tour accompanied by a dedicated English-speaking guide and a skilled local driver committed to catering to your preferences.
Nijo Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the historic Nijo Castle, an emblem of Kyoto's heritage. Roam through the intricately designed fortifications, the Ninomaru Palace, and the captivating gardens of this monumental site.
Nishiki Market: Culinary Delights Await. Delve into the vibrant Nishiki Market, an iconic food haven in Kyoto. Sample a rich variety of authentic Japanese foods and snacks like sushi, pickles, mochi, and matcha offered by numerous local vendors.
Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion): A Gilded Marvel. Marvel at the Kinkakuji, a stunning Zen temple adorned with gold leaf. This architectural wonder, once the retirement villa of Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, has endured a storied history.
Kiyomizudera (Pure Water Temple): Panoramic Vistas. Ascend the small mountain to Kiyomizudera, offering breathtaking views of Kyoto. The iconic stage and the temple's surroundings will offer a profound experience of Japan's cultural heritage.
Kimono Wearing Experience: Immerse in Tradition. Enhance your visit by renting a kimono, a quintessential experience to embrace the elegance of traditional Japanese clothing. Our professional dressers ensure a perfect fit, providing a delightful exploration of Gion and its revered
Fushimi Inari Shrine: A Movie-Esque Experience. Fushimi Inari Shrine, a sacred site nestled on Kyoto's outskirts, offers an elegant and iconic path of red-painted torii gates, famously featured in "Memoirs of a Geisha". Stroll through this visually captivating lane, perfect for memorable photos.
Nara Park: A Nature Haven with Playful Deer. Nara Park, situated at the base of Mt. Wakakusa, boasts a sprawling landscape hosting friendly deer amid unspoiled woodlands, serene temples, and a picturesque lake brimming with turtles and carp. The park's ancient temples offer a unique charm distinct from Kyoto.
Todaiji Temple: A Historical Landmark. Discover Todaiji Temple, a historically significant site established in 752, once the paramount Buddhist temple in Japan. It holds the world-renowned Daibutsuden, which houses a colossal bronze statue of Buddha, representing Vairocana. Though rebuilt, the temple stands as a testament to Japan's cultural heritage.
Mount Wakakusa: Spectacular Panoramas of Nara. Ascend the summit of Mount Wakakusa for awe-inspiring vistas showcasing Todai-ji Temple and Kodai-ji Temple. This mountain hosts the famed "yamayaki," an annual event involving the controlled burning of part of the mountainside brush, a striking sight to behold.
Dotonbori Adventures: Begin your day in the lively district of Dotonbori. As you explore the bustling streets, you'll encounter towering neon signs and a vibrant atmosphere. Dotonbori is a mecca for locals and tourists alike, offering a blend of clubs, bars, and eateries serving up Osaka's beloved street food. Sample the city's renowned culinary delights and soak in its energetic ambiance.
Osaka Castle Park: Next, head to the iconic Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city's rich heritage. Although its roots date back to 1583, the present main tower was reconstructed in 1931. The castle's adjacent history museum provides a glimpse into its storied past, chronicling the struggles leading to the Edo era of 1603. Osaka Castle Park is a green oasis and a favorite spot for locals to jog, cycle, and unwind. Immerse yourself in the lush surroundings and the city's history.
Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum: Step into the world of traditional Japanese art at the Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum. This unique institution is the sole museum globally to feature a permanent exhibition of Kamigata Ukiyoe, a regional style of woodblock prints. Explore the captivating artistry produced in the Osaka-Kyoto region during the Edo Period (1603-1868). Distinguished by their realism, these prints particularly showcase the era's great Kabuki actors. Delve into this unique art form through the museum's collection of around 50 works.
My Cupnoodles Factory Experience: Conclude your day with a delightful visit to the CupNoodles Museum in Osaka's Ikeda district. Delve into the intriguing history of instant noodles and the inventive mind of Momofuku Ando, their creator. A highlight of the museum is the "My Cupnoodles Factory" workshop, where you can craft your own personalized cup noodles. Start by selecting a cup and using markers to create a unique design on its surface. Then, pick your preferred soup flavor and toppings from a variety of options. Your personalized creation is professionally sealed and packaged in an inflatable air package, serving as a one-of-a-kind memento of your visit.
Our guide will help you transfer from your hotel to Osaka Airport for departure with independentcar/van and guide.
Tour Price:
- The price is based on a private tour for 2 people during the low season.
- The price varies based on program, travel date, number of people.
- We could also price a tour including both 4-star and 5-star hotels for you.
- We accept payments in multiple currencies (GBP, AUD, CAD, EUR...).
Price Includes:
- Transportation: a good combination of local public transport and private transfers.
- English-speaking local guide is available for the sightseeing day, excluding airport/train station pick-up/drop-off.
- Attraction tickets and itinerary activities
- Accommodation for all nights
- Trains between itinerary cities
- Hotel breakfasts are included. Lunch and dinner are not included unless specified in the itinerary.
- 24/7 helpline while touring
- Governmental taxes
Price Excludes:
- International flights not mentioned in the itinerary
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Visa fee, if applicable
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Personal expenses
Tour code: ah-cx-7
Inquire now! Your 1:1 travel consultant will reply within 1 working day.
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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.