Classic Japan
- 14 days
- Tokyo, Hakone, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Osaka
An ideal journey to discover the essence of classic Japan, featuring iconic sites, timeless traditions, and legendary landscapes.
From the fascinating energy of Tokyo to the legendary views of Mount Fuji from the Hakone region, this itinerary brings together the country’s most famous sights. Traditional ryokans, centuries-old temples, majestic shrines, and historic districts make for a journey rich in discoveries.
From the sacred island of Miyajima to the cultural elegance of Kyoto and the vibrant energy of Osaka, this tour brings together Japan’s must-see destinations for a comprehensive, authentic, and unforgettable first immersion.
Why choose Japan Experience ?
What's included in this tour?
What's not included
Your trip in detail
This 4-day itinerary explores Tokyo’s iconic neighborhoods, combining modern spots with cultural sites: Harajuku, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ginza, Tsukiji, Asakusa, and the Tokyo Skytree.
On the last day, you’re free to choose from a variety of optional activities based on your interests (museums, theme parks, themed tours, and more)!
or similar category 3* hotel
Arrival at Tokyo Airport (NaritaNRTor HanedaHND).
Welcome to Japan! Yokoso 日本へようこそ!
Meetour airport assistantatthe customs exit, who will provide you with all your travel documents and your Pocket WiFi.
Unaccompanied transferfrom the airport to Tokyo.
This transfer is via a shared shuttle with other guests heading to the same hotel or a hotel near yours. These shuttles depart between 1.5 and 3 hours after your flight’s scheduled arrival, and stops may be made before reaching your hotel.
If you would like a private transfer, with no stops and immediately after your flight lands, please select the "Private Taxi from the Airport" option.
For your first day in Tokyo, we recommend exploring:
- Harajuku, the trendy neighborhood for young people
- Meiji Jingu, the grand imperial shrine
- Takeshita-dori, Tokyo’s must-see street
- Omotesando, Tokyo’s “Champs-Élysées”
- Shibuyaand its famous intersection
End your day on a high note with anevening stroll through Shinjuku, one of Tokyo’s most important neighborhoods. Meet your guidein the early eveningfor a unique walking tour lasting about an hour and a half, during which you’ll exploreKabukichoandGolden Gai, among other areas.
For your second day of sightseeing, we suggest visiting:
- Ginza, the chic district
- Tsukiji, the food market
- Hama-rikyu, a Japanese garden nestled among the skyscrapers
- Asakusa, the capital’s traditional district
- Senso-ji Buddhist Temple
- Tokyo Skytree, the observation tower
Information
Please note that tickets for Hama-rikyu and the Tokyo Skytree are not included and must be purchased separately.
to make the most of your stay in Tokyo, we suggest ending your trip with a wide range of exciting optional activities:
- Looking to have some fun?The Harry Potter Studio,Disneyland, or Hello Kitty Park are waiting for you
- Prefer themed experiences?Choose between an architectural tour, a stroll through a Japanese garden, a home cooking class, or even tickets to a Noh theater performance
- Looking for thrills?Take a scenic helicopter tour or attend a sumo tournament(seasonal)!
- Fancy a day trip?Justa45-minute train ride away is Kamakura, a charming coastal town steeped in history.
This step takes you from Tokyo to Hakone, famous for its many hot springs. After sending your luggage on to Kyoto, you’ll travel light to this mountainous region. Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Ashi, Mount Fuji (on a clear day), and the volcanic valley of Owakudani. The day ends on a relaxing note with a night at a ryokan, offering you the chance to unwind in the soothing atmosphere of a traditional inn.
(or similar category 3* hotel)
In the morning, send your luggage to your hotel in Osaka so you can travel light for your getaway to Hakone.
From Shinjuku, activate your Hakone Free Pass and take the train to this famous region of mountains and hot springs. You’ll arrive in the afternoon, surrounded by some of Japan’s most iconic natural landscapes.
Hakone then reveals its treasures: the peaceful Lake Ashi, where the view stretches toward Mount Fuji on clear days, and the volcanicOwakudani Valley, accessible by cable car, where steam vents remind visitors of the region’s geothermal activity.
At the end of the day, return to your ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, for a well-deserved moment of relaxation. A refined, seasonal kaiseki dinner will be served around 6:30 p.m. You will then spend a night in the Japanese style, on a futon, lulled by the peaceful and elegant atmosphere of this unique place.
Osaka immerses you in the heart of vibrant Japan, with its iconic castle, elegant neighborhoods, and spectacular views. Whether you choose the thrills of Universal Studios or the freedom to explore its temples, hot springs, and legendary streets, the capital of Kansai reveals a unique energy, day and night.
(or similar category 3* hotel)
Traditional breakfast at the ryokan.
Board the Shinkansen train bound for Osaka.
We recommend starting your visit to Osaka gently, with the northern and eastern districts:
- Osaka Castle, amedieval fortress famous for its many plum and cherry trees;
- Downtown Osaka andNakanoshima Island, famous for its rose garden nestled among the skyscrapers;
- Utsubo Park, a true oasis of coolness in the heart of the business district;
- A visit toUmeda, the mecca of Japanese shopping;
- Finish withthe Umeda Sky Buildingat sunset for a 360° view of the Kansai region (including Kyoto on a clear day!).
One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can also accompany you throughout the day
For this second day of your visit to Osaka, we recommend the following attractions:
- The Osaka Kaiyukan Aquarium, the world’s largest aquarium by volume
- The Tennoji district and its Shitenno-ji Buddhist temple, one of the oldest in Japan
- Spa World, Japan’s largest hot spring (onsen) complex
- Shinsekai and its retro charm
- DenDen Machi, the tech village
- Finish up in Dotonbori, the liveliest district
For lunch, we recommend takoyaki, one of the city’s specialties!
Head to Miyajima for a timeless getaway: a mythical shrine perched on the sea, spectacular views from Mount Misen, and a night in a ryokan in the heart of the island. An authentic Japanese experience, blending spirituality, nature, and the good life.
or similar category 3* hotel
In the morning, head toHiroshima. Be sure to stop inHimeji, the “White Heron,” to admire its magnificentcastle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Once you arrive in Hiroshima, settle into your hotel at your leisure. Then head out to visit thePeace MemorialParkandMuseum,thecastle, and its park filled with cherry blossoms (in season).
Breakfast at the hotel.
It’s time to explore Miyajima Island, one of Japan’s most iconic sites. Admire the famous Itsukushima-jinja Shrine and its majesticÔtorii gate , which appears to float on the sea.
Continue your exploration by taking the cable car up to Mount Misen, before leisurely walking back down. At the summit, a spectacular view of Hiroshima Bay and the surrounding islands awaits you.
At the end of the day, return to Hiroshima and your hotel.
Between historical heritage, iconic temples, traditional neighborhoods, and a side trip to Nara, immerse yourself in the heart of Japan’s spiritual and cultural world. Three intense days to savor all the poetry of Kyoto before a gentle return home.
(or similar category 3* hotel)
Breakfast at the hotel.
In the morning, take theShinkansen toKyoto*. You’ll* have 4 days to explore the city.
Start in the afternoon near your accommodation by visiting:
- Kiyomizu-Dera, the Great Water Temple;
- The historic alleys ofSannen-zaka&Ninnen-zaka;
- Kôdai-ji, Kyoto’s temple of maple trees and bamboo.
End your day with a stroll through the Gion district and enjoy the sunset.
Meet your guidein the early eveningto begin yournighttime walk through Gion,Kyoto’s historic district (you’ll find more details about the exact date and meeting place in your travel guide).
Informations
Please note that photography is strictly prohibitedin the Gion district.
For your second day in Kyoto, we recommend the following itinerary:
- The Zen garden at Ryôan-ji;
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion);
- Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
- The enchanting Philosopher’s Path;
- Nanzen-ji Temple.
One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can accompany you on a tour of these iconic sites (available as an option, from 9 AM to 5 PM).
For your last day with the Kansai Hiroshima Pass, we suggest a trip to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital in the 8th century.
In the heart of a vast park populated by free-roaming deer, discover some of the country’s most iconic cultural treasures: the Kasuga-taisha Shinto shrine, famous for its thousands of lanterns; the majestic Tôdai-ji, home to the Great Bronze Buddha and the imposing Nan-Daimon gate; and the Kôfuku-ji temple with its elegant pagoda.
At the end of the day, return to Kyoto to admire the sunset at Fushimi Inari-taisha, the famous shrine with its thousands of vermiliontorii gates forming a spectacular path through the mountains.
If you wish, this day can be enjoyed with an English-speaking guide who will reveal the history and secrets of the ancient capital (option includes round-trip transportation from Kyoto).
For your last day in Kyoto, why not make the most of our selection of activities and experiences?
- In the mood for nature? Opt for a bike ride along the Kamo River or go hiking in the magnificent Takao Gorge.
- Interested in Japanese arts and traditions? Treat yourself to a tea ceremony, a Zen meditation session, or explore secret gardens—true havens of serenity.
- For a deep dive into the Japanese countryside, explore the charming village ofOhara, nestled in the mountains north of Kyoto.
So many experiences to round out your stay in Kyoto in style.
Direct transfer via shared shuttle to Kansai International Airport(KIX).
If you prefer a private transfer, directly to the airport with no 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 by a few days, in Kansai or elsewhere... we’d be happy to help!



