Highlights of Japan

Japan - Your tailor-made trip

12 days - from 1960€

Day 1

Yokoso!
Welcome to Japan! Upon your arrival in Tokyo, you will be greeted at the airport by an assistant who will help you get back to your hotel by public transport and teach you how to use the transport pass. Depending on your arrival time, why not set out to start your discovery of this bustling metropolis or try some delicious ramen?
Day 2

Discovery of the capital
Get to the heart of the matter by discovering the essentials of East Tokyo: the Tsukiji Fish Market where you can discover unknown species from the sea, the peaceful Hama-Rikyu garden, Ueno Park which is home to many many temples and the national museum but also the superb Senso-Ji Temple, emblem of the Asakusa district. Its mythical red lantern will guide your steps to the main building, as you pass the crowds thronging Nakamise-Dori Street.
Day 3

Another side of Tokyo
Today, continue your exploration of the Japanese capital and take a walk in the Asakusa district, far from the clichés. Pass through the doors of time as you enter the historic center of the capital, and take your time as you breathe the charm of yesteryear in a Tokyo that is not forgotten..
Day 4

Towards Mount Fuji | 90 km - 1h by train
Today, leave the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and make your way to the Mount Fuji region and admire the mythical volcano from Fuji Hakone Izu National Park. Here, you can admire several charming shrines and temples scattered all over the lake. Hakone is also the perfect place to experience the Japanese hot springs called ”onsen” for some relaxation after an adventurous day!
Day 5

Owakudani Volcanic Valley | 400 km - 1h50 by train
After relaxing in the Japanese hot baths, you can enjoy gentle hikes in the park along the lake to reach one of the higlights of Japan : the majestic Owakudani Volcanic Valley. Admire its famous fumaroles, steam vents, hot springs and hot rivers. The experience is definitely worth the detour, and on clear days you may have the chance to see a spectacular panoramic view of Mount Fuji.
Day 6

“The Eternal City”
Today, set off to explore Kyoto, nicknamed “the Eternal City”, in the company of your English-speaking guide. Stroll the streets of Kyoto and witness ancient traditions, dazzling architecture and beautiful parks. The shrines and temples of the ancient Japanese capital will transport you to the past and you might be lucky enough to come across a Geiko.
Day 7

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Today, you have a free day to explore Kyoto on your own. Why not head to the southwest of the city for a unmissable visit to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of the highlights of Japan. A magnificent green pathway, the bamboo grove runs along the Tenryû-ji Temple and leads to a hidden side of Kyoto. The superb bamboos will impress you with their size and the noise they produce when they collide. A moment of great poetry awaits you during this atypical walk!
Day 8

30,000 Torii
To continue your exploration of Kyoto, why not make your way to the largest Shinto shrine in Japan, Fushimi Inari Taisha, where 30,000 torii follow one another forming a red vault winding through the heart of the forest and the mountain.
You then continue your journey by discovering the Philosopher’s Path, dotted throughout small temples and shrines. Visit the UNESCO-listed Ginkaku Ji, also known as the Silver Pavilion, a lacquered wooden pavilion surrounded by a soothing, streamlined garden nicknamed "The Sea of ​​Silver Sand".
Day 9

Day trip to Nara | 45 km -1h by train
Take a day trip to Nara, the former capital of Japan and walk in its large park where you can meet the city’s famous residents: the shika deer. Seeing these friendly animals will delight both young and old! It is very easy to approach them and they will surely come to tease you and search your bags. A great way to get some funny photos!
Day 10

The Castle of the White Heron | 100 km - 1h by train
Today on the program is a day trip to Himeji, the ancient feudal town. Its magnificent white castle, nicknamed the Castle of the White Heron, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take the time to stroll in the sublime Koko-en garden, not far from the castle, whose beauty can be appreciated in all four seasons. Finally, why not take a walk on Mount Shosha, located on the edge of Himeji? Here you can explore the Engyo-ji, a rarely visited Buddhist complex, and one of the secret highlights of Japan.
Day 11

Japan’s culinary capital
Stroll through Osaka, the third largest city in Japan. On the program: magnificent shrines, the Osaka History Museum and Tenno-ji Park. One of the highlights is a visit to Osaka Castle for a glimpse into the life of a samurai. If you have time, why not head to the observatory of the Umeda Sky building for a stunning view of the city. In the evening, enjoy your last Japanese night out on Osaka's most popular street, Dotonbori Street. It’s the city’s epicenter after dark in the heart of Osaka’s most party district!
Day 12

Goodbye Japan! | 50 km - 1h by train
Enjoy a free half-day in Osaka, a gourmet paradise to explore freely as you wish - the perfect opportunity to do some last-minute souvenir shopping or grab a last bowl of ramen.

According to your flight schedule, make your way to Osaka KIX Airport for your departure flight.

We hope you enjoyed discovering the highlights of Japan!

Travel conditions

  • The assistance of our travel experts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • Government taxes and service taxes.
  • Accommodation as mentioned in the program.
  • Breakfasts.
  • Activities marked "included" as described in the program.
  • 7-day ordinary JR Pass (Japanese TGV - Shinkansen), unlimited transport (excluding Hiroshima).
  • Public transport cards credited with 1500 Yen.
  • The Hakone Pass, valid for 2 days.
  • Pocket Wi-Fi giving unlimited internet access for the entire stay.
  • Does not include any other item not mentioned in the quote.
  • Visa fees and bank fees for payment by bank card or bank transfer.
  • International flights.
  • International airport taxes.
  • Insurance (we strongly recommend you take travel insurance for the duration of your travels abroad).
  • Repatriation assistance.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Any additional hours for the guide.
  • The tax linked to tourism (ex: 200 to 1000 Yen in Kyoto).
  • Tips.
  • The main meals (expect to pay between €5 to €15 in a local restaurant/meal/person). Except the meals mentioned in the program.
  • Visits and activities which are only suggested in the detailed itinerary.
  • Entrance fees, excursions and optional activities.
  • Transfers not mentioned and not included with the JR Pass.
  • Luggage transfers.
  • Reloading transport cards.
  • Anything not listed in the "prices include" section.
Fiona
Fiona Travel Expert Japan Perfect for first-timers and those looking to cover the main highlights of Japan! This trip is full of natural wonders and cultural legacies which will fascinate history and nature lovers.
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Duration
12 days
from
1960€
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