How do I book a tour?

Simple and easy, just book directly online on our website: You choose the tour of your choice, your departure date and the number of participants. Several options are available.Pay a deposit of 35% of the total amount online and confirm your booking.You receive an e-mail confirmation of your booking.You book your plane ticket, either with Japan Experience or by yourself (taking into account the times required for your tour to run smoothly).You pay the balance of your invoice up to one month before departure.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.

When is the best time to visit Japan?

Overall recommendations:Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms and mild weather.Autumn (October–November): Stunning fall foliage and cooler temperatures.Winter is ideal for snow sports and hot springs, while summer is ideal for festivals, though it can be hot and humid. Recommended dates for seeing the spring flowers:Plum blossoms: mid-February to mid-MarchCherry blossoms (sakura): between 20 March and 15 April (dates vary from year to year)Wisteria, iris, azaleas: mid-April to end of MayHydrangeas: JuneLotus flowers: August

What are the procedures for entry?

Due to the current crisis, we advise you to visit the website of the Japanese embassy in your country to find out about the procedures for entry. Normally, for citizens of the European Union, Switzerland and Canada, you just need a valid passport (for the duration of your stay). A visa is not necessary for a tourist stay of less than 90 days.

What is the cancellation policy for Self Guided Tours?

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 costBetween 35 and 21 days before departure: 50% of the total costBetween 20 and 8 days before departure: 75% of the total costLess than 7 days before departure or on the day of departure: no refund will be made

All Self-guided tours

City break - Kyoto tour

8 days
Kyoto

Kyoto, the beating heart of the Japanese soul.

The former imperial capital, the city reveals a timeless Japan of majestic temples, preserved alleyways, and ancestral rituals. Between mythical pavilions, Zen gardens, geisha districts, and traditional markets, every step reveals the elegance and depth of Japanese culture.

Around Kyoto, the treasures of Kansai enrich the experience: Nara and its founding shrines, Himeji and its immaculate castle, Osaka and its nighttime energy. A journey full of contrasts, where spirituality, history, and art de vivre come together for a complete immersion in the heart of the most emblematic Japan.

Highlights of the product

Treat yourself to a city break! Set off on a fully organized week-long tour of Kyoto, Japan's former imperial capital!

Kyoto, the former imperial capital, is Japan's must-see city. Discover the soul of Japan in all its forms!

With 17 UNESCO sites, 2,000 temples and shrines, and numerous gardens, Kyoto never ceases to fascinate.

Why choose Japan Experience ?

On-site assistance 7 days a week

Internet access included

Travel log with our expert advice

Authentic experiences guaranteed

What's included in this tour?

Airport Transfers

3* Hotels & Ryokan

Pocket Wi-Fi

Kansai Area Pass

Gion nightwalk

Tea ceremony

What's not included

Personal expenses, non included meals

Public transport card recharge

Optional Insurances

From

$855 per person - 8 days

Contact an advisor

Step 1 - Days 1 to 8

Kyoto

Between historical memories, iconic temples, traditional neighborhoods, and a getaway to Nara, immerse yourself in the spiritual and cultural heart of Japan. Three intense days to savor all the poetry of Kyoto before continuing your journey filled with discoveries.

The Royal Park Hotel Kyōto Umekōji

4.4

or similar category 3* hotel

18-24

Private bathroom

Free Wifi

Day 1 -

Wake up in Kyoto

Arrival at Kansai International Airport (KIX).

Welcome to Japan! Yokoso 日本へようこそ！

Reception at customs exit by our airport assistant, who will give you all your travel documents and your Pocket WiFi.

Unaccompanied transfer from the airport to your hotel.

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

If you would like a private transfer, with no stops and directly after your flight's actual arrival, please choose the "Private taxi from the airport" option.

Included

Airport Transfers

Options

Private taxi from the airport

Day 2 -

On the way to the old capital

Start your visit with:

Kiyomizu-dera, the great temple of water;
The historic streets of Sannen-zaka and Ninnen-zaka;
Kôdai-ji, the temple of maple trees and bamboo in Kyoto
The Gion district.

End your day with a stroll and enjoy the sunset as you meet up with your guide for a night tour of the Gion district.

Informations

Please note that taking photos in the Gion district is strictly prohibited.

Included

Gion nightwalk

Highlight(s)

Kiyomizu-Dera

Kôdai-ji

Gion

Day 3 -

Gold and silver treasures

For your second day in Kyoto, we recommend the following itinerary:

Ryôan-ji Zen Garden;
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion);
Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
The enchanting Philosopher's Walk;
Nanzen-ji Temple.

One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can accompany you on your visit to these iconic sites (available as an option, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.).

End the day at a tea house where you will be graciously welcomed by a tea master for a traditional tea ceremony. Watch the meticulous preparation and presentation of matcha, a vibrant green tea served in handmade pottery. Savor the delicate flavors of wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets, accompanied by frothy tea. This enchanting experience promises a glimpse into the heart of Japanese culture.

Included

Tea ceremony

Highlight(s)

Kinkaku-ji & Ginkaku-ji

Philosopher’s path

Ryôan-ji

Options

Guided tour

Day 4 -

Between tradition and modernity

Continue your tour of Kyoto by heading west:

Nishiki, Kyoto's food market
Nijo Castle, former residence of the shogun
Arashiyama, with its bamboo forest and monkey mountain

Highlight(s)

Nishiki market

Nijo castle

Arashiyama

Day 5 -

Now for some activities…

Why not make the most of our activity catalog?

Want to enjoy nature? Discover our bike rides along the Kamo River or our hikes in the Takao Gorge.
If you're more interested in Japanese arts, you'll love our tea ceremony, our meditation activities, or our tours of secret gardens.
If you want to discover the Japanese countryside, treat yourself to an excursion to Ohara

Day 6 -

Between temples and deer

For your last day in Kyoto, we recommend visiting Nara.

Visit Nara, Japan's first permanent capital in the 8th century.

Discover:

The Kasuga-taisha Shinto shrine and its thousands of lanterns;
Tôdai-ji, its great bronze Buddha, and the imposing Nan-Daimon gate;
Kôfuku-ji temple and its charming pagoda

Return to Kyoto for sunset at Fushimi Inari-taisha, the immense shrine with 10,000 torii gates in Kyoto.

If you would like to be accompanied during this day, one of our English-speaking guides will reveal all the secrets of Japan's first capital (optional, round trip from Kyoto).

Highlight(s)

Kasuga-taisha

Todai-ji

Kofuku-ji

Options

Nara guided tour

Transfer

Kyoto

Train (50min)

Nara

Day 7 -

On the path of the Samuraïs

Immerse yourself in history by visiting Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Considered the best-preserved castle in Japan, its elegant white facade has earned it the nickname "White Heron Castle." This journey takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes by train from Kyoto (2 transfers, all included in your package).

After your historical exploration, take a train and subway (included) to the lively Dôtonbori district in Osaka. Enjoy a delicious dinner and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant nightlife before returning to Kyoto.

Our English-speaking guides will plan the perfect itinerary for you.

If you have more time:

Enjoy the tranquility of Uji, the city of tea, and visit the magnificent Byôdô-in temple, also known as the "Phoenix Pavilion" (about 30 minutes by train).
Discover Hikone Castle, a magnificent example of Japanese castle architecture. Don't miss the captivating beauty of the surrounding gardens (about 30 minutes by train);
Step into a postcard scene in Miyama, a village renowned for its traditional thatched-roof houses (about 1 hour and 30 minutes by bus);
Visit Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake. Enjoy the surrounding beaches during the summer months (about 20 minutes by train).

Day 8 -

Sayonara and see you next time!

Direct transfer to Kansai International Airport (KIX).

If you prefer a private transfer at a time of your choosing, directly to the airport and without any stops along the way, select the "Private taxi to the airport" option.

Return flight to your home country, but feel free to extend your stay for a few days, in Kansai or elsewhere... we will be happy to help!

Included

Airport Transfers

Options

Private taxi from the hotel to the airport

Stay extension

Product conditions

Accommodation

Meals

Find out more about the accommodation details and meals included in your tour.

Transports and other services

Activities

Activities included

Cancellation policy, terms and conditions, and accessibility

Tour conditions

Cancellation fees apply depending on when the cancellation is confirmed. Please read the following carefully, along with our travel conditions and required travel documents.

Cancellation Policy

If you wish to cancel your trip after signing the registration form, please notify Japan Experience as soon as possible—by registered mail (with acknowledgment of receipt) or by email. The date the notice is sent will serve as the official cancellation date.

Cancellation fees are calculated as a percentage of the total trip cost, according to the following schedule:

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

Price Adjustments

Tour prices are subject to change depending on factors such as supply and demand, yen exchange rates, and supplier pricing.
No refund will be made after booking if a lower price becomes available. Similarly, no additional charges will apply in the event of a price increase after confirmation.

Program Modifications

The itinerary may be modified due to weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances.
To ensure participant safety and comfort, Japan Experience may adjust the order of visits, the choice of cities, or other program details as needed — always with the goal of maintaining a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Accessibility

This tour is not suitable for travelers with reduced mobility.
Pets are not allowed.
Children and infants are welcome.
- A child rate (ages 3–11) includes a standard bed and seat.
- An infant rate (ages 0–2) includes a baby crib in most accommodations, though availability cannot be guaranteed.
Dietary requirements: Vegetarian or vegan options in Japan are limited, particularly on group tours. While Japan Experience cannot guarantee specific meals, your guide will help you find suitable dishes when possible. The same applies to travelers with food intolerances.
Luggage: Extra luggage transfers incur an additional charge (approx. £25 / $31 USD per person per bag). Please inform your guide in advance.

Travel Documents

A digital version of your travel booklet and related documents will be sent by email 3 weeks before departure.
Airport transfer tickets will be provided by your airport assistant upon arrival (if applicable).
Physical travel documents needed for the tour will be given by your tour guide at the hotel meeting at 7:00 PM on Day 1.
Booking and Payment
Choose your tour, departure date, and number of participants.
Pay a 35% deposit online to confirm your booking.
Receive your booking confirmation by email.
Book your flight (either through Japan Experience or independently, ensuring flight times fit your tour schedule).
Pay the remaining balance at least one month before departure. Payment in installments is available upon request.

For questions or assistance, contact our team at +44 (0)20 3514 6932 or contact@japan-experience.com.

You can also visit our London office or request a quote online

Need Help?

Request a quote and let us know any questions you may have, as well as the best time for one of our travel experts to call you back.

Ask your questions

Peak season note

In very rare cases, mainly in peak season, the steps might be reversed. You will be informed of this in your travel diary should it happen. We appreciate your understanding.

Cover your trip, Insurance

As of October 11, 2022, Japan will open its borders to all Europeans (including the European Union, the United Kingdom and Switzerland) and North Americans (Canada and the United States) without requiring a visa.

Only non-triply vaccinated travelers need a negative PCR test performed within 72 hours prior to departure.

Do I still need a visa to travel to Japan as a tourist?

No, no visa is required for blue countries including all European countries (European Union, United Kingdom and Switzerland included) and North American countries (Canada and United States). List of blue countries: https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/short/novisa.html. If you have another nationality, please contact the Japanese embassy in your country of residence to obtain this visa.

Do I still need a PCR or antigen test to go to Japan?

No, if you are triple vaccinated with the vaccines approved by Japan (Pfizer, Moderna, ...exhaustive list here : https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/page24e_000317.html) there is no need for any test.

I do not have 3 doses of vaccine or I am not vaccinated against COVID, can I enter Japan?

Proof of Covid vaccines is no longer required for travelers from "blue" countries. Therefore, unvaccinated travelers can enter Japan if they live in blue countries. But a negative PCR test is required at embarkation for travelers who are not vaccinated 3 times.

Is there still a quarantine upon arrival in Japan?

Quarantine and testing on arrival have been eliminated for travelers from blue countries.

Is insurance mandatory?

No, but it is recommended. Japan Experience, as an option of its tours, provides appropriate travel insurance solutions.

What anti-covid measures are still in place in Japan?

The mask must be worn indoors (except in exceptional cases) and in transportation.

What applications should I download before entering Japan?

For tracking the evolution of the coronavirus epidemic, the Japanese government recommends downloading several applications:

MySOS, the health and location tracking app (it will be used to confirm your location, health status and accommodation).

COCOA, the COVID-19 contact confirmation app (this will be used to notify you of possible contact with a COVID-19 positive person).

For more information, please visit: https://www.hco.mhlw.go.jp/manual/pdf-en/summary.pdf

Simple and easy, just book directly online on our website:

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

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.

Overall recommendations:

Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms and mild weather.
Autumn (October–November): Stunning fall foliage and cooler temperatures.
Winter is ideal for snow sports and hot springs, while summer is ideal for festivals, though it can be hot and humid.

Recommended dates for seeing the spring flowers:

Plum blossoms: mid-February to mid-March
Cherry blossoms (sakura): between 20 March and 15 April (dates vary from year to year)
Wisteria, iris, azaleas: mid-April to end of May
Hydrangeas: June
Lotus flowers: August

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, ranked in the top 10 by the Global Peace Index.

Therefore travelling alone is safe. Women and girls can travel alone without fear of being harassed or solicited in public places. The same goes for children, who can be seen going to school alone in the metro from the age of 7. This can give you an idea of the country's level of safety. Last but not least, Japan is a haven for children: the safety, the amusement parks, the friendly attitude of the population.