Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Departure to Tokyo

Board your flight from the U.S. to Tokyo, ready for an unforgettable journey through Japan.

Day 2: Arrival in Tokyo

Arrive in Tokyo and meet your local Travel Director at the airport before transferring to your centrally located hotel. Begin exploring with an orientation walk to get familiar with the city’s sights, followed by a group welcome dinner to kick off the adventure.

Day 3: Discovering Tokyo’s Iconic Sites

Start with a city tour, beginning at the Meiji Shrine, Tokyo’s most important Shinto site. Then, take a break in the expansive Yoyogi Park, a favorite among locals. In the afternoon, head to Harajuku, Tokyo’s vibrant center for youth culture, fashion, and entertainment.

Day 4: Imperial Palace and Anime Adventure

Explore the Imperial Palace and its East Gardens, located on the site of Edo Castle. This green sanctuary, surrounded by moats and stone walls, is the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family. Later, visit the bustling Tsukiji Outer Fish Market for a look at Japan’s seafood scene. In the afternoon, dive into Tokyo’s anime and gaming culture with a visit to Akihabara, known for its electronics and vibrant otaku culture.

Day 5: Traditional Drumming and Tokyo’s Historic Side

Begin the day with a hands-on Taiko Drum experience, where you’ll learn traditional rhythms and the cultural significance of drumming in Japan. Later, visit the historic Asakusa district and explore the famous Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Wrap up with a visit to the Tokyo Skytree’s observation decks for breathtaking views of the city.

Day 6: High-Speed Train to Kyoto

Travel to Kyoto on the high-speed Shinkansen bullet train, a highlight in itself! After arriving, embark on a city tour to see Kyoto’s celebrated temples and shrines, and stroll through the atmospheric streets of Gion, the famous geisha district lined with traditional wooden buildings.

Day 7: Exploring Kyoto’s Heritage

Visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace, former residence of Japan’s Imperial Family, followed by a tour of Nijo Castle, built in 1603 as the residence of the first Tokugawa shogun. In the afternoon, explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding through the forested trails.

Day 8: Nara Day Trip

Take a day trip to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital, filled with historic treasures like Todai-ji Temple and its Great Buddha. Enjoy encounters with the friendly deer that roam freely around Nara Park. Return to Kyoto in the evening.

Day 9: Temples and Traditional Markets

Visit the Zen temples of Nanzenji and Ginkakuji, nestled at the base of the Higashiyama mountains. Then, head to Shijo-dori for a mix of high-end shops and traditional crafts before exploring Nishiki Market, “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” with its vibrant food stalls and specialty goods.

Day 10: Hiroshima and Miyajima Island

Take a day trip to Hiroshima to visit the Peace Memorial Museum and the A-Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site commemorating the city’s resilience and peace efforts. Later, ferry to Miyajima Island to see the famous “floating” torii gate. Return to Kyoto in the evening.

Day 11: Arashiyama District Exploration

Spend the day exploring Kyoto’s Arashiyama District. Visit Monkey Park Iwatayama, the picturesque Togetsukyo Bridge, the serene Bamboo Groves, and the historic Tenryuji Temple. Return to Kyoto for the evening to relax and enjoy the city.

Day 12: Journey to Osaka

Travel from Kyoto to Osaka, where you’ll enjoy a city tour and visit the bustling Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi districts. Experience Osaka’s lively energy, neon lights, and vibrant food scene.

Day 13: Tea Ceremony and Osaka’s Heritage

Begin your day with a traditional tea ceremony, gaining insight into Japanese customs. Later, visit Osaka Castle, an iconic structure that played a key role in Japan’s history. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate the memories made on this incredible journey.

Day 14: Departure

Transfer to Osaka airport for your return flight, heading home with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Japan’s rich culture and history.