Japan Extended Discovery

Upon arrival at Narita or Haneda International Airport, you'll be welcomed by our representative who will assist with your transfer to your hotel in Tokyo. After check-in, depending on your arrival time, the remainder of the day is at leisure to recover from your flight or begin exploring the vibrant city. In the evening, meet your tour guide and fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese gastropub) for an authentic introduction to Japanese cuisine and culture. Overnight in Tokyo.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day exploration of Tokyo's diverse neighborhoods. Begin at the serene Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, nestled within a lush forest. Continue to the trendy Harajuku district and elegant Omotesando Avenue before visiting the electronic mecca of Akihabara. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore the historic Asakusa district with its iconic Senso-ji Temple and vibrant Nakamise Shopping Street. Conclude your day with a visit to the observation deck of Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower (depending on weather conditions) for panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis. Return to your hotel in the evening. Overnight in Tokyo.

After breakfast, choose from several optional activities based on your interests (one activity included in the package, additional activities available at extra cost):Tsukiji Outer Market & Cooking Class: Visit the vibrant outer market area and participate in a hands-on cooking class where you'll learn to prepare sushi or other Japanese specialties. Digital Art & Teamlab Borderless: Immerse yourself in the stunning digital art museum where art transcends boundaries and physical limitations. Tokyo Pop Culture Tour: Explore Akihabara, Harajuku, and Shibuya, focusing on manga, anime, and Japanese pop culture. Day Trip to Kamakura: Visit this coastal town known for its Great Buddha, numerous temples, and serene bamboo groves. Enjoy lunch during your chosen activity. The afternoon offers free time for shopping or personal exploration. In the evening, we recommend exploring the vibrant Shinjuku or Shibuya districts (your guide can provide recommendations). Overnight in Tokyo.

After breakfast, check out and begin your journey to Hakone. En route, visit the iconic Mount Fuji, Japan's highest mountain and most recognizable symbol. Weather permitting, drive up to the 5th Station at 2,300 meters for spectacular views. After lunch, continue to Hakone, part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi and a ride on the Hakone Ropeway for breathtaking views of the volcanic Owakudani Valley. In the evening, check into a traditional Japanese ryokan where you'll experience authentic Japanese hospitality, including tatami-matted rooms, futon bedding, and an onsen (hot spring bath). Savor a multi-course kaiseki dinner featuring seasonal local specialties. Overnight in Hakone.

Start your day with an optional early morning onsen bath followed by a traditional Japanese breakfast at the ryokan. Check out and transfer to Odawara Station to board the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, begin exploring Japan's cultural capital with visits to Nijo Castle, known for its nightingale floors and stunning Ninomaru Palace, and Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), the iconic Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring Kyoto's refined cuisine. Overnight in Kyoto.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day exploration of Kyoto's cultural landmarks. Start at the stunning Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vermilion torii gates. Continue to Sanjusangendo Temple, famous for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. After lunch, visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched on a hillside offering spectacular views of Kyoto, and explore the charming streets of the Higashiyama district. In the late afternoon, experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in an authentic setting, learning about this important cultural ritual. The evening is at leisure to explore Kyoto's dining scene or perhaps venture to Gion district for a chance glimpse of geiko (Kyoto's geisha). Overnight in Kyoto.

After breakfast, travel to the scenic Arashiyama district on the western outskirts of Kyoto. Walk through the mesmerizing Bamboo Grove and visit Tenryu-ji Temple with its beautiful landscape garden. Explore Iwatayama Monkey Park, home to over 100 Japanese macaques. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the enchanting Okochi Sanso Villa, a private estate with lovely gardens offering stunning views. Return to central Kyoto and enjoy some free time to explore the downtown area or Nishiki Market, known as "Kyoto's Kitchen," where you can sample local specialties. In the evening, enjoy a special dinner accompanied by a maiko (apprentice geisha) performance. Overnight in Kyoto.

After an early breakfast, check out and take a short train ride to Nara, Japan's first permanent capital. Visit Todai-ji Temple housing the Great Buddha, and explore Nara Park with its friendly sacred deer. After lunch, return to Kyoto Station to board the Shinkansen to Hiroshima. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and then visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a moving tribute to the victims of the 1945 atomic bombing and a powerful reminder of the importance of peace. The museum's exhibits tell the story of Hiroshima before and after the bombing. See the A-Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome), a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the few structures left standing near the bomb's hypocenter. Dinner at a local restaurant featuring Hiroshima specialties, including okonomiyaki (savory pancake). Overnight in Hiroshima.

After breakfast, check out and take a ferry to the sacred island of Miyajima, home to the famous "floating" torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine (note: the torii gate may be under renovation; check current status). Explore this picturesque island with its charming streets, friendly deer, and beautiful temples. Visit Daisho-in Temple, an important site for the Shingon sect of Buddhism featuring numerous statues and religious artifacts. After lunch on the island, return to Hiroshima and board the Shinkansen to Osaka, Japan's vibrant food capital. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and then head out for an evening tour of Dotonbori, Osaka's lively entertainment district famous for its dazzling neon signs, food stalls, and the iconic Glico Running Man sign. Enjoy a farewell dinner featuring Osaka's famous street food. Overnight in Osaka.

After breakfast, depending on your departure time, you may have free time for last-minute shopping or to visit Osaka Castle (if time permits). At the appointed time, transfer to Kansai International Airport for your onward journey. End of services.