Golden Pavilion Kinkaku-ji : a must-see in Kyoto ancient capital
Maneki-neko in Tokyo
Kanazawa - Modern train station with wood huge torii
The Daisho-in temple, on the sacred island of Miyajima, is worth a visit with its 500 small Buddhist statues

Discover Japan

  • 13 days
  • Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Kanazawa

This guided tour in Japan takes you to Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima, without forgetting the majestic Mount Fuji, the sacred island of Miyajima and the traditional city of Kanazawa.

Discover the country in a little less than 2 weeks, in the company of a specialized English-speaking guide

The tour's highlights
Discover Japan at your own pace on this 13-day guided tour in a small group!
This tour will take you on a journey through a Japan of contrasts, both historical and rural.
Your expert English-speaking tour guide will take you on a tour of Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and more!
Discover majestic Mt. Fuji, Osaka, the sacred island of Miyajima, and the samurai district of Kanazawa.

What's included in this tour?

  • Guided tour
  • 3* Hotels
  • 1 night in a ryokan
  • All museum, site, activities entrance
  • Meals (excluding free days and some dinners)
  • Other transports (excluding free days)
  • Minibus tour (2 days)
  • Airport transfert
  • Public transportation card
  • Japan Rail Pass 7 days
  • Pocket Wi-Fi
  • Luggage transfer
  • From
    $3,877 per person -2 weeks

    What is not included?

  • International flights
  • Public transport card recharge
  • Optional Insurances
  • Personal expenses, non included meals
  • Why you should book with Japan Experience

    Japan Experience plus
  • On-site assistance 7 days a week
  • Accommodation selected by us
  • Internet access included
  • Travel log with our expert advice
  • Authentic experiences guaranteed
  • Your trip in detail

    Itinerary

    • Day 1 : Sunday - Wake up in Japan

      Arrival at Tokyo airport (Narita: NRT or Haneda: HND). Welcome to Japan!

      Our airport assistant will greet you in English as you clear customs.

      Unaccompanied transfer from the airport to Tokyo:

      This transfer is by shared shuttle, with other customers departing for the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers depart between 1.5 and 3 hours after your flight's scheduled arrival time, and stops may be made before your hotel.

      If you would like a private, non-stop transfer directly after the actual arrival of your flight, don't hesitate to select the ‘Private taxi from the airport’ option when booking.

      Check-in at the La'Gent Shinjuku Kabukicho or similar 3* hotel (rooms available from 3pm).

      You will be met by your guide at 7pm in the hotel lobby. An introduction to the tour will take place during a welcome dinner provided by Japan Experience, scheduled for 7pm on the day of your arrival. If your flight time does not allow you to join the group at this time, a boxed meal will be provided for you at the hotel upon arrival.

    • Day 2 : Day 2: First steps in the capital

      Breakfast at the hotel.

      Depart early for a guided tour of Tokyo:

      - Asakusa, a traditional district and place of pilgrimage

      - Senso-ji Buddhist temple, one of the oldest in Tokyo, and Nakamise-dori, a narrow, traditional alley lined with historic shops

      - A timeless moment during an authentic tea ceremony experience

      - Hamarikyu Gardens, a peaceful Japanese garden nestled between skyscrapers and Tokyo Bay

      - The chic and elegant Ginza district

      Lunch is provided by Japan Experience. Dinner will be on your own. Your tour guide will be able to recommend the best places to eat!

      Daily travel by public transport and on foot (approximately 10 km in total).

    • Day 3 : Tuesday: Tour of Tokyo

      Breakfast at the hotel.

      Continue your tour of Tokyo with your guide:

      - Ueno: Tokyo's iconic park, famous for its cherry blossom trees (late March, early April) and lotus pond

      - The Tokyo Sky Tree* with its panoramic views of the city

      - Harajuku: the center of youth fashion and cosplay culture

      - Meiji-Jingu: the imperial shrine

      - Takeshita-dori: a must-see street full of trendy stores and crepe stands

      - Omotesando: a tree-lined shopping avenue known as Tokyo's Champs-Élysées

      - Shibuya and its iconic giant pedestrian crossing

      Lunch is provided by Japan Experience, dinner will be on your own.

      Today's travel is by public transport and on foot (approximately 10 km in total).

      * One of the three tallest towers in the world at 634m. In the event of bad weather, reduced visibility or heavy crowds, Japan Experience reserves the right to replace this visit with another observation point.

    • Day 4 : Wednesday - On the way to Mount Fuji

      Breakfast at the hotel.

      Luggage transfer to Kyoto organised by Japan Experience (1 piece of luggage per person).
      Bring a small bag for the night in Hakone - Mount Fuji.

      Train journey to the heart of Hakone - Mount Fuji (approx. 1h30).
      Depart for the heights of Hakone for a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji (weather permitting).

      - Visit to the Hakone Open Air Museum, exhibiting contemporary sculptures in an exceptional natural setting.

      - Lake Ashi-no-ko and its Japanese torii gate with its feet in the water

      - The incredible Owakudani** volcanic site

      The Japan Experience signature: a day in a chauffeur-driven minibus to avoid the crowds on public buses and funiculars.

      Check in to the Ichinoyu Honkan or another ryokan of the same category (traditional Japanese hotel). Rooms come with private baths.


      Meals provided (lunch and traditional Japanese dinner) by Japan Experience.

      **The site may be inaccessible due to volcanic activity.
      Today's travel is by train, bus, cable car, boat and on foot (approx. 7 km in total).

    • Day 5 : Thursday - Tracing the past

      Traditional Japanese breakfast at the ryokan.

      Depart on foot or by public transport to Odawara station, then departure for Kyoto by Shinkansen high-speed train (3-hour journey).

      Start of the guided tour of Kyoto:

      - The Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine with its thousands of red torii gates winding up the mountain

      - Gion, Kyoto's historic district, with Sannen-zaka & Ninen-zaka streets and the Gion district.

      - Kodai-ji, Kyoto's maple and bamboo temple

      Please note that it is strictly forbidden to take photographs in the historic Gion district.


      Check in at The Intergate Kyoto, or another hotel in the same category.
      Meals provided (lunch and dinner) by Japan Experience.

      Today's travel is by Shinkansen to Kyoto, by public transport and on foot (approx. 6 km).

    • Day 6 : Friday - Treasures of the old capital

      Breakfast at the hotel.

      Morning tour of Kyoto by minibus, then on foot:

      - Ryoan-ji Zen Garden

      - Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

      - Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

      - The enchanting Philosopher's Path  

      The Japan Experience signature: enjoy a matcha tea while admiring the Japanese garden Murin-An.

      Lunch is provided by Japan Experience.
      Dinner is on your own - Your tour guide will be able to recommend some good spots in Kyoto!

      Today's travel is by minibus and on foot (about 8km in total).

    • Day 7 : Saturday - Free Day

      Breakfast at the hotel.

      Free day: Enjoy the many wonders of the ancient capital at your own pace. Your guide will be happy to provide recommendations if needed.

      Only breakfast is provided by Japan Experience at the hotel. Any other meals, transportation, and activities are not organized by Japan Experience today.

      Feel free to contact us if you'd like to book any activities for this day. We highly recommend exploring the Tea Road in Uji, a city renowned for producing the best matcha (powdered green tea) in Japan.

    • Day 8 : Sunday - Among Temples and Deers

      Breakfast at the hotel.

      Train journey to Nara (50min).

      Visit to Nara, Japan's first fixed capital in the 8th century.
      With your guide, discover:

      - Kofuku-ji temple and its delightful pagoda

      - Todai-ji, with its large bronze Buddha and imposing Nan-Daimon gate

      - Kasuga Taisha shrine and its myriad lanterns

      Depart for Osaka (50 min) and check in at the Hiyori Osaka Namba hotel or equivalent.

      Lunch is provided by Japan Experience. Dinner is on your own.

      Please note that the Kofukuji pagoda is under renovation until 2031.

      Today's travel is by train and on foot (approximately 10km in total).

    • Day 9 : Monday: Japan's sacred island

      Breakfast at the hotel.

      Luggage transfer to Tokyo (for 2 nights) organised by Japan Experience (1 piece of luggage per person). Pack a small bag for one night in Hiroshima, and one night in Kanazawa.

      Head to Hiroshima by Shinkansen (2h30) then the island of Miyajima by ferry (10 minutes) to visit the sacred island and its famous giant gate in the sea (ootorii).

      Return to Hiroshima and check-in at the Intergate Hiroshima or another hotel of the same category.

      Lunch and dinner are provided by Japan Experience.

      Today's travel is by Shinkansen, ferry and on foot (approx. 10 km).

    • Day 10 : Tuesday - Historic cities

      Breakfast at the hotel.

      In the morning, take a tour of the Peace Memorial Park and its museum.

      Early afternoon, depart for Kanazawa by Shinkansen and Express train (4h).

      Check-in at the OMO5 Kanazawa Katamachi, or another similar category hotel. 

      Meals (lunch and dinner) are provided by Japan Experience.

      Today's travel is by public transport, Shinkansen and on foot (about 10 km).

    • Day 11 : Wednesday - Ishikawa's pearl

      Breakfast at the hotel.

      Discover Kanazawa, a small city nestled between the sea in the north and the Japanese Alps.

      - Kenroku-en, Kanazawa's beautiful Japanese garden, considered one of the top 3 gardens in Japan!

      - Omicho, a huge fish market selling seafood fresh from the Sea of Japan

      - The Nomura house, once a Samurai residence, located in a picturesque old quarter of the city.

      In late afternoon travel to Tokyo by Shinkansen (2 hours 45) and check in to your hotel La'Gent Shinjuku Kabukicho or similar. 

      Lunch is provided by Japan Experience. Dinner will be on your own. 

      Today's travel is by public transport, bus, Shinkansen and on foot (approx. 10km)

    • Day 12 : Thursday - Don't miss a thing

      Breakfast at the hotel.

      This is a free day to visit the countless other interesting monuments and sites in the capital and its surroundings: your guide will be able to give you recommendations.

      Lunch, transportation and any activities are unaccompanied, and not organised by Japan Experience.

      In the evening, a farewell dinner will be provided by Japan Experience.

    • Day 13 : Friday - Sayonara, and see you next time!

      Transfer to Tokyo airport (Narita: NRT or Haneda: HND). Included, but not accompanied.

      This transfer is by shared shuttle, with other customers departing from the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers arrive between 3 hours and 1.5 hours before the actual departure of your flight, and stops may be made before you arrive at the airport.

      If you prefer a private transfer at a time of your choice, directly to the airport and without any intermediate stops, select the ‘Private taxi to the airport’ option when booking.

      Return flight to your home country (not included).

      Alternatively, don't hesitate to extend your trip by one or more days to see Tokyo, Nikko, Kamakura... we'd be happy to advise you.

    Accommodation rate and rooming

    In Japan, 3-star hotels (according to local standards) offer high quality but often compact rooms, typically ranging from 12 to 20 square meters.
    Accommodation rate and rooming

    In Japan, 3-star hotels (according to local standards) offer high quality but often compact rooms, typically ranging from 12 to 20 square meters.

    • Double Rooms: Standard rooms for two people usually feature two single beds (twin beds) that can often be pushed together. In Tokyo, these rooms generally range from 15 to 18 square meters.
    • Single Rooms: Solo travellers booking single rooms incur an additional fee. This fee can be waived if they opt to share a twin room with another participant. Single rooms typically range from 12 to 15 square meters.
    • Traditional Accommodation (Ryokan) rooms include a private bathroom (Western or Japanese-style) and private toilets. In high season the offer might differ with shared bathroom, only if no other option is available. Guests will also have access to the ryokan's communal Japanese baths (onsen), which are usually segregated by gender. Please note that these baths may not be accessible to individuals with visible tattoos.

     

    Accommodation names

    The hotel names listed on the website are indicative. If unavailable, an equivalent standard hotel will be arranged. Hotels listed correspond to local standards and may change on-site to hotels of similar category.

    Transportation details and other services

    All inclusions and specifications about your transportation and other services.
    Transportation details and other services
    Airport Transfers

    The shared shuttle departs from the airport and stops directly at or near your hotel (maximum 10 minutes on foot). Our airport assistant in Tokyo will guide you to the platform for the airport transfer. The transfer to the hotel is unassisted. If you prefer to be accompanied from the airport to the hotel reception, choose the "Accompanied Airport Transfer" option.

    This shared shuttle or bus transfer may depart between 1.5 to 3 hours after your flight's scheduled arrival and may make stops before your hotel.

    For a private transfer without stops and directly after your flight's actual arrival, consider the "Private Taxi from the Airport" option.

    Note

    Due to frequent flight schedule changes by airlines, if your arrival time changes less than 72 hours before departure and exceeds 45 minutes, we cannot guarantee your airport shuttle.
    In such cases, you may need to take a taxi at your expense, with reimbursement sought from your airline for schedule changes.  

    The same policy applies to your return: changes cannot be made to the shuttle schedule within 72 hours of your return flight, necessitating a taxi reserved through the hotel at your expense, with reimbursement procedures handled directly with the airline. Japan Experience does not accept responsibility for last-minute schedule changes.

    Prepaid public transportation
    • A ¥1,500 pre-charged card (Suica or Pasmo) for everyday travel.
    • The card must be returned to the guide at the end of your stay unless your trip has been individually extended by Japan Experience.
    • Card Top up (recharge) for free days is not included in the price.
    Minibus

    The minibus is dedicated to Japan Experience customers by group.

    The chauffeur-driven minibus enables to avoid the crowds on public buses and funiculars, it will adapt to the tour pace.

    Ferry

    The ferry to Miyajima is included in your tour.

    The JR ferry to Miyajima runs roughly every 15 minutes and takes about 10 minutes to cross.

    Japan Rail Pass 7 days

    The pass will enable you to use the JR trains freely. 

    It includes the Yamanote line that can be useful on your free days. More information about the pass and its coverage

    The Japan Rail Pass cannot be reissued, replaced, or refunded if it is lost or stolen after you have received or started using it. This is a strict policy set by JR Group (Japan Railways). 
    You will need to buy new tickets at your own expense if you wish to continue traveling by train.

    Flights

    Flights are not included in this tour. 
    Feel free to contact us if you wish to include flights in your booking. Economy class flights with layovers or direct flights, upgrades to premium economy or business class, departures from other cities or countries: we can advise you accordingly.

    • The departure and return dates on this page concern your stay in Japan. You will arrive in Japan via Tokyo (Narita or Haneda airports) and depart from the same airport. On departure, you should leave the day before from Europe and land no later than 2:30pm to be present by 7:00pm at your hotel to meet your tour guide. However, the return flight will be on the same day due to the favorable time difference.
    • If your flights have been purchased independently, without Japan Experience's assistance, it is necessary to provide us with your flight information (flight number, airport, date, and arrival time) at latest one month before your departure to allow us to organise your reception and airport transfer.
    • If your outbound flight does not allow you to arrive at your hotel by 7pm on the first day of the tour, you will not be able to enjoy the included welcome dinner. Dinner expenses will be at your own cost.
    • For your return flight, a shuttle will be provided to take you to the airport. It will arrive at the airport between 3 to 2 hours before your flight.

     

    Need Help?

    Request for a quote, indicate all your questions and when you want to be call back by on of our travel expert.

    Ask your questions

     

    Pocket Wi-Fi
    • The device comes with a simple instruction booklet and a prepaid return envelope. It will remain active until the final day of your trip.
    • You can connect up to 5 devices simultaneously (such as phones, tablets, or computers).
    • One Pocket WiFi is provided for bookings of 1 to 5 travelers. For groups of 6 or more, a second device will automatically be included at no extra cost.
     

    Free days

    No access to the Pocket Wi-Fi on your 2 free days

    Cancellation, tariffs conditions and access

    All conditions for cancellation, applied tarification and tour accessibility.
    Cancellation, tariffs conditions and access
    Cancellation conditions

    If you need to cancel your trip after signing the registration form, you must notify Japan Experience as soon as possible. This notification can be sent either by registered mail with acknowledgment of receipt or by email. The date of sending will be considered the official cancellation date.

    In such cases, cancellation fees will apply, calculated as a percentage of the total cost of the trip, according to the following terms:

    • More than 35 days before departure: 35% of the total cost
    • Between 35 and 21 days before departure: 50% of the total cost
    • Between 20 and 8 days before departure: 75% of the total cost
    • Less than 7 days before departure or on the day of departure: no refund will be made
    Price Variation

    Our tours prices are subject to change, either upward or downward, depending on supply, demand, yen exchange rates, and price adjustments from our suppliers.

    Please note

    No refunds will be made after the reservation if a price difference is observed. Likewise, in the event of a price increase after the reservation, no additional costs will be charged.

     

    Tours adjustments

    The program may be adjusted based on various factors such as weather conditions or unforeseen events.

    To ensure the safety and comfort of participants, modifications may be made to the itinerary, including adjustments to the order and/or selection of cities, visits, or any other optimisations deemed necessary by Japan Experience.

    These adjustments are made to provide you with a pleasant and worry-free experience.

    Tour accessibility
    • Unfortunately, this tour is not accessible to individuals with reduced mobility.
    • Pets are not allowed.
    • Children and infants are welcome. A child rate is offered for ages 3 to 11. They will be provided with a standard adult bed in each accommodation and a standard seat in transportation. For infants aged 0 to 2, a "baby" rate is offered, which includes a baby crib in most accommodations, though availability cannot be guaranteed in every place.
    • For vegetarians, vegans, or those with strict dietary requirements: There are few vegetarian or vegan restaurants in Japan, especially on group tours. Japan Experience cannot accommodate every dietary preference, but the guide can assist in selecting suitable dishes at each restaurant. This also applies to those with food intolerances.
    • For baggage transfer, any additional luggage will incur an extra charge (approximately 25 GBP/ 31 USD per person per bag). It's essential to inform your tour guide in advance.
    Your travel documents
    • The digital version of your travel booklet and other digital travel documents will be sent by email 3 weeks before departure.
    • Airport transfer tickets will be provided by our airport assistant upon your arrival, if applicable.
    • Other physical travel documents necessary for the trip will be given by your tour guide at your hotel meeting at 7:00 PM on the first day.
    Booking and payment

    Book directly online on our website:

    1. You choose the tour of your choice, your departure date and the number of participants. Several options are available.
    2. Pay a deposit of 35% of the total amount online and confirm your booking.
    3. You will receive an e-mail confirmation of your booking.
    4. Book your plane ticket, either with Japan Experience or by yourself (taking into account the times required for your tour to run smoothly).
    5. Pay the balance of your invoice up to one month before departure. Upon request you can pay in several times.

    For more information about our tours or your booking, don 't hesitate to contact our advisers on + 44 (0)20 3514 6932 or contact@japan-experience.com.

    You can also visit us in our London office or get your quote online.

    Cover your trip, Insurance

    Choose between our 2 offers to insure a safe trip
    Cover your trip, Insurance

    Upon reservation Japan Experience offers you 2 types of protection:

    1. Japan Experience Flex :
      This insurance covers expenses related to trip cancellations for specific reasons (disease, accident, passing...)
       
    2. Japan Experience Protect :
      This insurance provides overall coverage for various aspect of the trip. 
      For instance: cancellation, flight delay or missing flight, lost luggage, travel incident and repatriation, assistance, etc...

    Conditions

    Do you have any other questions?
    We are here to help you
    Tokyo tower nuit
    Day 1 to 3
    Tokyo

    Experience Tokyo’s blend of modern energy and deep tradition, from Shibuya’s crossing to the quiet temples of Asakusa. Explore museums, markets, and gardens that reveal the city’s layered character. Each day offers a thoughtful mix of moments that capture Tokyo’s rhythm.

    OMO3 Akasaka by Hoshino Resorts
    4.2

    or similar category 3* hotel

  • ≃ 172 sq ft
  • Private bathroom
  • Free Wifi
  • Tokyo tower
    Day 1 -
    Sunday - Wake up in Japan

    Welcome to Japan! Arrive at Tokyo airport (Narita: NRT or Haneda: HND). 

    • Our airport assistant will greet you in English as you clear customs.
    • Unaccompanied transfer from the airport to Tokyo: 
      This transfer is by shared shuttle, with other customers departing for the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers depart between 1.5 and 3 hours after your flight's scheduled arrival time, and stops may be made before your hotel.
    • Check-in at your hotel, rooms available from 3pm.
    • You will be met by your guide at 7pm in the hotel lobby. 
      An introduction to the tour will take place during a welcome dinner provided by Japan Experience, scheduled for 7pm on the day of your arrival. 
       

    Info

    If your flight time does not allow you to join the group at this time, a boxed meal will be provided for you at the hotel upon arrival.

     

    Included
  • Airport transfert
  • Dinner
  • Options

    If you would like a private, non-stop transfer directly after the actual arrival of your flight, don't hesitate to select the ‘Private taxi from the airport’ option when booking.

    Day 2 -
    Monday: First steps in the capital

    Depart early for a guided tour of Tokyo

    • Asakusa, a traditional district and place of pilgrimage
    • Senso-ji Buddhist temple, one of the oldest in Tokyo, and Nakamise-dori, a narrow, traditional alley lined with historic shops
    • A timeless moment during an authentic tea ceremony experience
    • Hamarikyu Gardens, a peaceful Japanese garden nestled between skyscrapers and Tokyo Bay
    • The chic and elegant Ginza district 
       

    Distance

    Daily travel by public transport and on foot (approximately 10 km in total by foot).

     

    Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Tea ceremony
  • Highlight(s)
    Asakusa
    Hamarikyu Gardens
    Day 3 -
    Tuesday: Tour of Tokyo

    Continue your tour of Tokyo with your guide: 

    • Ueno: Tokyo's iconic park, famous for its cherry blossom trees (late March, early April) and lotus pond
    • The Tokyo Sky Tree with its panoramic views of the city
    • Harajuku: the center of youth fashion and cosplay culture
    • Meiji-Jingu: the imperial shrine
    • Takeshita-dori: a must-see street full of trendy stores and crepe stands
    • Omotesando: a tree-lined shopping avenue known as Tokyo's Champs-Élysées
    • Shibuya and its iconic giant pedestrian crossing

     

    Tokyo Sky Tree

    One of the three tallest towers in the world at 634m. In the event of bad weather, reduced visibility or heavy crowds, Japan Experience reserves the right to replace this visit with another observation point. 

    Distance

    Today's travel is by public transport and on foot (approximately 10 km in total by foot).

     

    Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Highlight(s)
    Tokyo Sky Tree
    Shibuya crossing
    Day 4
    Hakone

    Have breakfast in Tokyo and journey to the heart of Hakone - Mount Fuji

    Tōnosawa Ichinoyu Honkan

    (or similar category 3* hotel)

  • 15-20m²
  • Public onsen
  • Private bathroom in option
  • Day 4 -
    Wednesday - On the way to Mount Fuji

    Bring a small bag for the night in Hakone - Mount Fuji as you main luggage will transfert to Kyoto. 

    Depart for the heights of Hakone for a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji (weather permitting). 

    • Visit to the Hakone Open Air Museum, exhibiting contemporary sculptures in an exceptional natural setting.
    • Lake Ashi-no-ko and its Japanese torii gate with its feet in the water
    • The incredible Owakudani volcanic site (The site may be inaccessible due to volcanic activity).
    • The Japan Experience signature: a day in a chauffeur-driven minibus to avoid the crowds on public buses and funiculars. 

     

    Distance

    Today's travel is by train, bus, cable car, boat and on foot (approximately 7 km in total by foot).

    Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Traditional Japanese dinner
  • Luggage transfer
  • Highlight(s)
    Lake Ashi-no-ko
    Owakudani
    Morning Train transfert
    Tokyo
    approx. 1h30
    Hakone
    Kinkaku-ji temple, Kyoto
    Day 5 to 7
    Kyoto

    Discover the timeless beauty of Kyoto, from the charming streets of Gion to Kyoto’s iconic Zen gardens and temples, and a stroll along the Philosopher’s Path. 
    You will take a quiet moment to enjoy matcha tea while admiring the serene Murin-An garden. 
    Then step back in time with a guided visit to Nara, Japan’s first capital, where you'll explore historic treasures.

    Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo

    (or similar category 3* hotel)

  • 18-24m²
  • Free Wifi
  • Private bathroom
  • Geisha in Gion, Kyoto
    Day 5 -
    Thursday - Tracing the past

    Depart by public transport to Odawara station, then departure for Kyoto by Shinkansen high-speed train (3-hour journey). 
    Start of the guided tour of Kyoto: 

    • The Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine with its thousands of red torii gates winding up the mountain
    • Gion, Kyoto's historic district, with Sannen-zaka & Ninen-zaka streets and the Gion district.
    • Kodai-ji, Kyoto's maple and bamboo temple Please note that it is strictly forbidden to take photographs in the historic Gion district. 

     

    Gion District

    Please note that it is strictly forbidden to take photographs in the historic Gion district.

    Distance

    Today's travel is by Shinkansen to Kyoto, by public transport and on foot (approximately 6km in total by foot).

     

    Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Highlight(s)
    Fushimi Inari Taisha
    Gion
    Subway and train transfert
    Hakone-Yumoto Station
    approx. 0h35
    Odawara station
    approx. 1h40 to Kyoto
    Day 6 -
    Friday - Treasures of the old capital

    Morning tour of Kyoto by minibus, and then on foot: 

    • Ryoan-ji Zen Garden
    • Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
    • Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
    • The enchanting Philosopher's Path

    The Japan Experience signature: enjoy a matcha tea while admiring the Japanese garden Murin-An

    Distance

    Today's travel is by minibus and on foot (approximately 8km in total by foot).

     

    Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Tea at Murin-An
  • Highlight(s)
    Kinkaku-ji 
    Philosopher's Path 
    Day 7 -
    Saturday - Free Day

    Free day! 
    Enjoy the many wonders of the ancient capital at your own pace. 

    Your guide will be happy to provide recommendations if needed. 

    Any other meals, transportation, and activities are not organized by Japan Experience today. 
    Feel free to contact us if you'd like to book any activities for this day.

    Options

    Tea Road in Uji: 
    a city renowned for producing the best matcha (powdered green tea) in Japan.

    nara
    Day 8
    Nara & Osaka

    Spend the day in Nara visiting Nara Park, Tōdai-ji Temple, and Naramachi’s historic streets. 
    Then head to Osaka in the evening to enjoy Dōtonbori’s neon lights, street food, and lively nightlife.

    Hotel Intergate Osaka Umeda

    (or similar category 3* hotel)

  • 16-22m²
  • Private bathroom
  • Free Wifi
  • Nara, Japan's first imperial capital.
    Day 8 -
    Sunday - Among Temples and Deers

    Visit Nara, Japan's first fixed capital during the 8th century. With your guide, discover: 

    • Kofuku-ji temple and its delightful pagoda
    • Todai-ji, with its large bronze Buddha and imposing Nan-Daimon gate
    • Kasuga Taisha shrine and its myriad lanterns 

    Depart for Osaka (50 min) by train and spend the evening wondering in the food streets of the vibrant Osaka city. 

    Kofukuji pagoda

    Please note that the Kofukuji pagoda is under renovation until 2031. 

    Distance

    Today's travel is by train and on foot (approximately 10 km in total by foot).

     

    Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Highlight(s)
    Kofuku-ji
    Todai-ji
    Morning train transfert
    Kyoto
    approx. 0h55
    Nara (day visit)
    approx. 0h50 to Osaka
    Day 9
    Miyajima Island & Hiroshima

    Spend the day on Miyajima Island, exploring the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its floating torii gate, hiking or taking the ropeway up Mount Misen for panoramic views, and then sampling local treats like grilled oysters and momiji manju. 

    In the evening, return to Hiroshima for dinner selected by our experts and go for a peaceful walk through the illuminated Peace Memorial Park, blending natural beauty with quiet reflection.

    Hotel Intergate Hiroshima
    4.4

    or similar category 3* hotel

  • ≃ 193 sq ft
  • Private bathroom
  • Free Wifi
  • Day 9 -
    Monday: Japan's sacred island

    Pack a small bag for two nights (Hiroshima and Kanazawa) your luggage will be sent to Tokyo. 

    Head to Hiroshima by Shinkansen then the island of Miyajima by ferry to visit the sacred island and its famous giant gate in the sea (ootorii). 

    Return to Hiroshima to check in and enjoy your dinner. 

    Distance

    Today's travel is by Shinkansen, ferry and on foot (approximately 10 km in total by foot).

    Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Luggage transfer
  • Highlight(s)
    Ootorii
    Train and ferry transfert
    Osaka
    approx. 2h30
    approx. 0h10
    Miyajima
    View of the Dome of the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima.
    Day 10
    Hiroshima & Kanazawa

    In the morning, take a tour of the Peace Memorial Park and its museum. 
    And in the evening depart for Kanazawa also called the Little Kyoto.

    Hotel Intergate Kanazawa

    (or similar category 3* hotel)

  • 16-20m²
  • Free Wifi
  • Private bathroom
  • Le célèbre Dôme de Genbaku d'Hiroshima ayant survécu à la bombe atomique
    Day 10 -
    Tuesday - Historic cities

    Spend the day in Hiroshima visiting the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and Shukkeien Garden for a moment of tranquility and relaxation. 

    In the early afternoon, depart for Kanazawa by Shinkansen and Express train. 
    Explore the Higashi Chaya District with its traditional teahouses, then relax over dinner in a restaurant with the small group.

    Distance

    Today's travel is by public transport, Shinkansen and on foot (approximately 10 km in total by foot).

     

    Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Highlight(s)
    Peace Memorial Park
    Afternoon train transfert
    Hiroshima
    approx. 4h00
    Kanazawa
    Le torii moderne de la gare de Kanazawa.
    Day 11 to 13
    Kanazawa & Tokyo

    Spend the day in Kanazawa exploring Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful landscapes, then visit Kanazawa Castle and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
    Stroll through the Nagamachi Samurai District for traditional charm and craft shops. 

    On your last days in Tokyo (free day), go on final shopping in Shibuya or Harajuku, and end with skyline views or last Japanese meal recommended by your guide.

    OMO3 Akasaka by Hoshino Resorts
    4.2

    or similar category 3* hotel

  • ≃ 172 sq ft
  • Private bathroom
  • Free Wifi
  • Kenrokuen (Kanazawa)
    Day 11 -
    Wednesday - Ishikawa's pearl

    Discover Kanazawa, a small city nestled between the sea and the Japanese Alps. 

    • Kenroku-en: Kanazawa's beautiful Japanese garden, considered one of the top 3 gardens in Japan!
    • Omicho: A huge fish market selling seafood fresh from the Sea of Japan
    • The Nomura house: Once a Samurai residence, located in a picturesque old quarter of the city. 

    In late afternoon travel to Tokyo by Shinkansen and check in to your hotel. 

     

    Distance

    Today's travel is by public transport, bus, Shinkansen and on foot (approximately 10 km in total by foot).

     

    Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Highlight(s)
    Kenroku-en
    Omicho
    The Nomura house
    Train transfert
    Kanazawa
    approx. 2h45
    Tokyo
    Day 12 -
    Thursday - Don't miss a thing

    This is a free day to visit the countless other interesting monuments and sites in the capital and its surroundings: your guide will be able to give you recommendations. 

    Lunch, transportation and any activities are unaccompanied, and not organised by Japan Experience. 

    In the evening, a farewell dinner will be provided by Japan Experience. 

    Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Day 13 -
    Friday - Sayonara, and see you next time!

    Time to say sayonara!
    Transfer to Tokyo airport (Narita: NRT or Haneda: HND). 

    This transfer is by shared shuttle, with other travelers departing from the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. 

    Alternatively, don't hesitate to extend your trip by one or more days to see Tokyo, Nikko, Kamakura... we'd be happy to advise you.

    Included
  • Breakfast
  • Options

    If you prefer a private transfer at a time of your choice, directly to the airport and without any intermediate stops, select the ‘Private taxi to the airport’ option when booking.

    Shared shuttle transfert
    Tokyo
    Depends of the airport
    Narita or Haneda

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