Highlights of Japan

  • 15 days
  • Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Kanazawa, Takayama

Our most complete tour of Japan, for a 15-day tour of Japan. Discover Japan in a 2-week itinerary: from the energy of Tokyo to the charm of Kyoto, from the beauty of Mount Fuji to the serenity of the Japanese Alps.

All the wonders of Japan in one trip!

Highlights of this tour
Explore all of Japan's major sights: Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Hiroshima, the Japanese Alps!
Our most rounded tour: from beautiful Japanese mountain landscapes to buzzling cities like Tokyo
Discover historic cities: Kanazawa's Samurai villas and Miyajima's red Torii gate in the sea!

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
  • Luggage transfer
  • 3* Hotels & Ryokan
  • Several breakfasts
  • Traditional Japanese dinner
  • Pocket Wi-Fi
  • Guided activities
  • Public transportation card
  • Public transport pass
  • Sky Tree visit
  • Japan Rail Pass 14 days
  • Tokyo Metro Pass
  • What's not included in this tour?

  • Personal expenses, non included meals
  • International flights
  • From
    $2,346 per person - 2 weeks

    Your trip in detail

    Tokyo tower nuit
    Step 1 - Day 1 to 3
    Tokyo

    Experience Tokyo’s contrast of modern energy and timeless tradition, from Shibuya’s crossing to Asakusa’s quiet temples. Every day reveals a new side of the city’s rhythm.

    OMO3 Akasaka by Hoshino Resorts
    4.2

    or similar category 3* hotel

  • ≃ 172 sq ft
  • Private bathroom
  • Free Wifi
  • Shibuya Crossing
    Day 1 -
    Wake up in Japan

    Arrival at Tokyo airport (Narita NRT or Haneda HND). Welcome to Japan! Yokoso 日本へようこそ! 

    Welcome after passing through customs by our airport assistant, who will give you all your travel documents and your Pocket WiFi. Included, but unaccompanied transfer from the airport to Tokyo (see details). 

    The transfer is done in a shared shuttle or bus, with other guests departing for the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers depart between 1.5 and 3 hours after your scheduled flight arrival, and stops may be made before your hotel. 

    If you would like a private, non-stop transfer directly after the arrival of your flight, feel free to add the "Private Taxi from the Airport" option.

    Included
  • Airport Transfers
  • Options

    Private taxi from the airport

    Day 2 -
    First steps in the capital

    Start your journey in Tokyo by exploring the city’s two faces: modern energy and timeless tradition. 

    Ideas of itinerary :
    Discover Harajuku, the heart of youth fashion and cosplay, and experience the buzz of Shibuya’s famous crossing. Visit the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine, then finish your day with an evening stroll through Shinjuku, one of Tokyo’s most vibrant districts. 

    End your day in style with an evening stroll through Shinjuku, one of Tokyo's most important areas. Meet your guide at the beginning of your evening for a unique walk lasting around 1 hour and a half, during which you will pass through Kabukicho and Golden Gai, among other places. 

    Included
  • 1 guided tour in Shinjuku
  • Highlight(s)
    Harajuku
    Meiji-jingu
    Shinjuku
    Day 3 -
    The big loop

    Your second day in Tokyo offers a perfect glimpse of the city’s must-see spots. 

    Our recommendations :

    Start at Tokyo Station and make your way through the elegant avenues of Ginza, the lively stalls of Tsukiji Market, and the peaceful Hama-rikyu Gardens. Continue to Asakusa to explore its old-world charm and visit Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Finish your day at the Tokyo Skytree, where sunset views reveal the city in all its splendor (following seasons).

    Included
  • Sky Tree visit
  • Highlight(s)
    Ginza
    Asakusa
    Tokyo Sky Tree
    Step 2 - Day 4
    Hakone

    Leave Tokyo behind and travel through scenic valleys to the peaceful hot-spring town of Hakone

    Our suggestions:

    • Enjoy views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji,
    • Explore the volcanic landscapes of Owakudani, and experience true Japanese hospitality with a stay in a ryokan, complete with a traditional kaiseki dinner and relaxing onsen baths.
    Tōnosawa Ichinoyu Honkan
    4.3

    (or similar category 3* hotel)

  • 15-20m²
  • Public onsen
  • Private bathroom in option
  • Day 4 -
    At the heart of the japanese soul

    In the morning, send your luggage to your hotel in Kyoto (details in your travel diary, check with the hotel reception) so you can travel light. From Shinjuku Station, activate your Hakone Free Pass and take the train to Hakone-Yumoto, winding through the valleys of the Mount Fuji region

    Check in at your ryokan, then explore Lake Ashi, Owakudani, and the surrounding landscapes. Return in the evening for a kaiseki dinner and a relaxing night in traditional Japanese style. 

    About ryokans

    A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn offering a cultural stay with tatami-matted rooms, futon beds, communal baths (often onsen), and emphasizing hospitality with a harmonious, peaceful Japanese lifestyle, found across Japan, especially in hot spring areas.

    Learn more in the product conditions below

    Included
  • Traditional Japanese dinner
  • Luggage transfer
  • Highlight(s)
    Owakudani
    Lake Ashi
    Included transfer
    Tokyo
    Train (about 1h30)
    Hakone
    Kinkaku-ji temple, Kyoto
    Step 3 - Days 5 to 7
    Kyoto

    Discover Kyoto’s timeless beauty, from the streets of Gion to its iconic Zen gardens and the Philosopher’s Path. Enjoy matcha tea in the peaceful Murin-an Garden, then travel to Nara, Japan’s first capital, for a guided visit of its historic treasures.

    Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
    4.3

    (or similar category 3* hotel)

  • 18-24m²
  • Free Wifi
  • Private bathroom
  • Day 5 -
    The former capital

    Head to Hakone Yumoto Station, then Odawara Station, to board one of the fastest trains in the world, the Shinkansen, bound for Kyoto. You’ll have three days to explore Japan’s cultural heart.

    Here are some of our recommendations:

    Begin your afternoon in the historic Gion district, near your accommodation:

    • Visit Kiyomizu-dera, the stunning “Pure Water Temple.”
    • Wander the charming streets of Sannen-zaka and Ninnen-zaka.
    • Discover Kodai-ji, Kyoto’s maple and bamboo temple.
    • End your day with a peaceful stroll through Gion at sunset.

    Guided tour

    Meet your guide at the beginning of your evening to start your evening walk around Gion, Kyoto's historic district (more details on the exact day and meeting point can be found in your travel guide) 

     

    Included
  • Gion nightwalk
  • Highlight(s)
    Kiyomizu-Dera
    Gion
    Included transfer
    Hakone
    Shinkansen
    Kyoto
    Day 6 -
    Golden and silver treasures

    Discover Kyoto’s timeless elegance. 

    Ideas of itinerary:

    • Visit Ryoan-ji and its Zen rock garden, then admire the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) reflected on its pond.
    • Continue to the Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji), surrounded by peaceful moss gardens
    • Stroll along the Philosopher’s Path, a serene walkway shaded by cherry trees. 
    Highlight(s)
    Kinkaku-ji
    Ginkaku-ji
    Philosopher's path
    Options

    Kyoto guided tour during the day

    Day 7 -
    Now for some activity...

    Continue exploring Kyoto in the west of the city. 

    Here are our suggestions :

    Highlight(s)
    Nishiki market
    Nijo castle
    Arashiyama
    nara
    Step 4 - Day 8
    Nara

    Why not spend the day in Nara visiting Nara Park, Tōdai-ji Temple, and Naramachi’s historic streets before coming back to your hotel in Kyoto ?

    Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
    4.3

    (or similar category 3* hotel)

  • 18-24m²
  • Free Wifi
  • Private bathroom
  • Day 8 -
    Between temples and deers

    We recommend visiting Nara, Japan's first fixed capital in the 8th century : enjoy its Park, discover the Tōdai-ji Temple and all its landscapes before return to Kyoto and stop to see the sunset at the Fushimi Inari-taisha, Kyoto's immense shrine of 10,000 torii gates.

    About Kofukuji pagoda

    Please note that the Kofukuji pagoda is under renovation until 2031

    Highlight(s)
    Kofukuji
    Todai-ji
    Transfer
    Kyoto
    Nara
    View of the Dome of the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima.
    Step 5 - Days 9 & 10
    Hiroshima & Miyajima Island

    Discover Hiroshima and Miyajima, where memory, spirituality, and nature come together. Hiroshima invites reflection through its Peace Memorial Park and poignant history, while nearby Miyajima offers a timeless escape with its sacred shrine rising from the sea, forested landscapes, and sweeping views from Mount Misen. A deeply moving and beautifully balanced experience.

    Hotel Intergate Hiroshima
    4.4

    or similar category 3* hotel

  • ≃ 193 sq ft
  • Private bathroom
  • Free Wifi
  • Day 9 -
    Make way for history

    Discover Hiroshima and Miyajima, where history meets natural beauty. In Hiroshima, the Peace Memorial Park inspires reflection and hope, while the city itself embodies Japan’s resilience. Just a short ferry ride away, Miyajima Island captivates with the Itsukushima Shrine, its floating torii gate, and sweeping views from Mount Misen.

    Highlight(s)
    Hiroshima castle
    Hiroshima atomic bomb dome
    Hiroshima peace memorial
    Included transfer
    Kyoto
    Shinkansen
    Hiroshima
    Day 10 -
    The sacred island

    To follow up, after breakfast : 

    • Head to Miyajima Island, home to the Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic floating torii gate.
    • Ride the cable car up Mount Misen
    • Walk back down, enjoying panoramic views over Hiroshima Bay.
    • Return to Hiroshima in the late afternoon.

    Travel information

    Enjoy exploring the island by foot after a ride of train and ferry

    Highlight(s)
    Itsukushima shrine
    Mount Misen
    Le château de Himeji, le plus célèbre du Japon.
    Step 6 - Day 11
    Himeji & Kanazawa

    Leave Hiroshima and head to Kanazawa. On the way, stop to visit the magnificent Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s most beautiful feudal fortresses.

    Hotel Intergate Kanazawa
    4.4

    (or similar category 3* hotel)

  • 16-20m²
  • Free Wifi
  • Private bathroom
  • Day 11 -
    Castle and samurai

    Breakfast at the hotel and head towards Kanazawa

    Before continuing to Kanazawa make a stop to explore the White Heron Castle, a UNESCO-listed masterpiece

    Included
  • Breakfast
  • Highlight(s)
    Himeji castle
    Included transfer
    Hiroshima
    Shinkansen
    Kanazawa
    Le torii moderne de la gare de Kanazawa.
    Step 7 - Day 12
    Kanazawa

    Discover Kanazawa, a small city nestled between the sea in the north and the Japanese Alps. One of our team’s favorite city in Japan! 

    Hotel Intergate Kanazawa
    4.4

    (or similar category 3* hotel)

  • 16-20m²
  • Free Wifi
  • Private bathroom
  • Day 12 -
    The pearl of Japan

    Spend the day going through :

    • 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.
    Included
  • Breakfast
  • Highlight(s)
    Kenroku-en
    Omicho
    The Nomura house
    Une allée traditionnelle à Takayama.
    Step 8 - Day 13
    Takayama

    Immerse yourself in ancient Japan in Takayama, where Edo-period architecture, morning markets and the picturesque Sanmachi Suji district capture the essence of a timeless Japan.

    Day 13 -
    Rural and mountain

    Breakfast at the hotel.

    For this day out, you can go directly to Takayama by Shinkansen and regional train to settle into the heart of this famous mountain town.

    Or, fancy a second night in a ryokan before finishing your trip? Enjoy an unforgettable night at one of Takayama's ryokan instead with dinner and breakfast included, such as the Honjin Hiranoya Bekkan (optional, supplementary fee required).

    Included
  • Breakfast
  • Luggage transfer
  • Highlight(s)
    Shirakawa-go
    Options

    Excursion in Shirakawa-go

    Transfer
    Kanazawa
    Shinkansen
    Takayama
    Tokyo tower nuit
    Step 9 - Days 14 & 15
    Tokyo

    After exploring Takayama, take the Shinkansen back to Tokyo in the late afternoon on day 14. The next day, enjoy your last moments in Japan shopping for souvenirs before heading to the airport for your flight.

    OMO3 Akasaka by Hoshino Resorts
    4.2

    or similar category 3* hotel

  • ≃ 172 sq ft
  • Private bathroom
  • Free Wifi
  • Tokyu Plaza OMOKADO
    Day 14 -
    The charm of the Japanese Alps

    Breakfast at the hotel.

    Enjoy the charms of Takayama at your own pace, its century-old homes, temples and museums.

    We recommend you visit:

    • The traditional Kusakabe and Yoshijima houses
    • The Yatai Kaikan Exhibition Hall, where old religious festival "matsuri" floats are on display
    • The picturesque Showa-kan, a museum on the 1940s to 1970s
    • The old Sannomachi shopping district
    • The Fuji Folk Art Museum

    In the late afternoon, make your way back to Tokyo by Shinkansen.

    Included
  • Breakfast
  • Highlight(s)
    Showa-kan museum
    Sannomachi shopping district
    Included transfer
    Takayama
    Shinkansen (about 4 hours)
    Tokyo
    Day 15 -
    Sayonara and see you next time !

    Make the most of your last few hours in Japan:

    • Do some shopping in Tokyo, from the bustling aisles of Don Quijote to the refined atmosphere of Isetan, an iconic destination for Japanese craftsmanship.
    • Take your shared transfer to Haneda or Narita Airport, scheduled to arrive between 1.5 and 3 hours before your flight.
    Included
  • Airport Transfers
  • Highlight(s)
    Shopping
    Options

    Private taxi from the hotel to the airport

    Product conditions

    Accommodation

    Accommodation
    Accommodation
    • Tourist tax: Some hotels may charge a local tax of around ¥200/person/night (≈£1.37 / $1.93), payable in cash at reception. In some 4* hotels, this may be slightly higher.
    • Room size: 3* hotels offer good comfort but rooms are compact (12–20 m², single rooms 10–16 m²). For more space, consider the 4* upgrade (Tokyo only).
    • Double rooms: Usually twin beds (can be joined). A double bed can be requested as a supplement.
    • Single rooms: Solo travelers must pay a single supplement, mandatory for odd-number groups. Applies to all hotels except ryokans, where shared spacious rooms can host up to 5 guests.
    • Triple rooms: Allocated for groups of 3, 5 or more without a single supplement.
    • Groups (>5 people): Depending on availability, not all members may stay in the same hotel, but we’ll aim to keep you nearby.
    • Hotel names: Indicative only; equivalent alternatives may be used.
    • Ryokan stays: Guests sleep on futons on tatami mats with private toilet/sink. Shared onsen baths (not mixed) unless you select a private bath option (recommended for families, couples, or guests with tattoos). 4* ryokans feature private bathrooms and raised futons or Western beds.
    Accommodation options
    For more space in hotels, you can upgrade to 4*rooms (only in Tokyo).

    As for ryokans, private bath option is available (ideal for couples, families, or guests with tattoos). 4* ryokans feature private bathrooms and raised futons or Western beds.

    Meals

    Meals
    Meals
    • Breakfasts: If not included, breakfasts can be added upon arrival at your hotel. Nearby cafés often offer tastier and more affordable options than hotel breakfasts, which tend to be savoury and served on a fixed schedule.
    • Hakone stay: Includes a traditional Japanese dinner and Japanese-style breakfast.
    Breakfast option
    Pre-book all breakfasts as an option when reserving your trip.

    Please inform us of any dietary requirements in advance so we can notify the ryokan. If the ryokan cannot accommodate these requests, we cannot be held responsible and no compensation will be issued.

    Transportation, other services & conditions

    Transportation, other services & conditions
    Transports
    • Including flights: Contact us if you wish to add flights to your booking. We can arrange direct or stopover flights, premium economy or business upgrades, and departures from other cities or abroad.
    • Travel dates: The tour dates shown correspond to your stay in Japan. You’ll arrive and depart from Tokyo (Narita or Haneda). Plan to leave Europe the day before and arrive by 6 pm to benefit from your included airport transfer. The return flight should depart no earlier than 9 am the following day. Contact us if you need help selecting flights.
    • Self-booked flights: If you purchase your own flights, please send us your flight details at least one month before departure so we can organize your airport welcome and transfer.
    Flights are not included in this tour.
    Flights are not included in this price. Discover more about the Japan Rail Pass, IC cards, transfers and other services included in your tour.
    Airport transfer
    • The shared shuttle departs 1.5–3 hours after your scheduled arrival and stops either at your hotel or within a short walk.
    • A Japan Experience assistant will guide you to the platform, but the transfer itself is unaccompanied. For full assistance to your hotel reception, select the “Accompanied Airport Transfer” option.
    • If your flight time changes by over 45 minutes within 72 hours of departure, the shared transfer cannot be guaranteed andyou’ll need to take a taxi at your expense and seek reimbursement from the airline.
     
    Private taxi
    For a direct, private transfer, select the “Private Taxi from the Airport” option.
    Local transportations
    Your tour includes:
    • A ¥1,500 pre-charged transport card (Suica or Pasmo) for everyday travel.
    • A Hakone Free Pass, covering transport between Tokyo Shinjuku and Hakone and within the Hakone region (excluding taxis).
    • A 14-day Japan Rail Pass, valid on most JR trains, including Shinkansen routes.
    About pre-charged transport card
    These passes cover the majority of your journeys. Once the ¥1,500 balance is used or for routes not included in the Japan Rail Pass, you can easily recharge your transport card at station vending machines.
    Other services
    • 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.
    About Pocket wifi
    A Pocket WiFi device is included in your tour, providing unlimited high-speed internet access throughout Japan. You will receive it upon arrival at the airport.

    Activities

    Activities
    Activities
    • Airport Welcome: Conducted in English. Your airport assistant will meet you at the customs exit, holding a sign with your reservation name. They will provide your travel documents and guide you to your airport transfer (unaccompanied to Tokyo).
    • Shinjuku Night Tour: A 2-hour guided group tour starting at 7 pm. Conducted in English if the group includes multiple nationalities.
    • Gion Guided Tour: A 2-hour evening tour beginning at 7 pm, conducted in English under the same multilingual conditions. 
    About dinner and guiding
    Please note that dinner is not included, but your guide can suggest dining options.
    Meeting information will be displayed in your travel pack.

    Cancellation policy, terms and conditions, and accessibility

    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

    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

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