13 Days / 12 Nights for Japan Tour

After landing at Kansai International Airport, complete the customs and immigration formalities before meeting your transfer to the Star Gate Hotel Kansai Airport 🏨. If time allows, take a short excursion to Rinku Town, known for its picturesque waterfront 🌊, vibrant shopping outlets 🛍️, and delicious dining options 🍣. Enjoy some leisure time to unwind and prepare for the exciting journey ahead. ✨

📍Overnight in Osaka.

Begin your day with a visit to the peaceful Sanzenin Temple in Rakuhoku O'hara, Kyoto. Nestled amidst towering trees, babbling streams, and a lush moss-covered landscape, the temple offers a serene retreat. Its beauty changes with the seasons, from the delicate cherry blossoms in spring to the vibrant red leaves of autumn.

Next, head to the scenic Arashiyama District, a picturesque area brimming with cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and quaint shops. Stroll through the iconic Bamboo Grove, where the sound of the wind rustling through the bamboo creates a calming atmosphere.

Visit Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning gardens and historic architecture. Take a moment to immerse yourself in its tranquil ambiance.

Conclude your day with a relaxing experience at Randen Arashiyama Station. Enjoy a traditional Japanese foot bath, soaking in the soothing waters while enjoying seasonal sweets.

Overnight in Osaka.

After breakfast, your journey begins with a visit to the serene Biwako Shirahige Shrine, one of the most ancient shrines in Omi Province. Renowned for its magnificent torii gate that seemingly floats on the tranquil waters of Lake Biwa, this iconic landmark offers a mystical and breathtaking sight, especially with the morning light reflecting on the lake. After soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and capturing stunning photographs, you will continue your scenic drive.

Following this spiritual start, your English-speaking chauffeur will drive you to the breathtaking Biwako Observation Deck. 🚗 Situated 1,100 meters above sea level, this vantage point offers an unparalleled 360-degree panoramic view of Lake Biwa. The vast, shimmering waters meeting the boundless sky create a truly spectacular backdrop for memorable photos and a moment of pure awe. Here, amidst the serene moss gardens and towering ancient trees, you can find inner peace and even enjoy a relaxing cup of matcha.

Your tour then leads you to the historic Mangetsuji Ukimido, a lakeside Buddhist pavilion that is part of the "Eight Scenic Spots of Omi." ⛩️ Connected to the shore by a 17-meter stone bridge, this tranquil hall enshrines the Guanyin Bodhisattva and offers a spiritual and scenic blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Finally, as the day winds down towards sunset, you will be transported to La Collina Omihachiman. 🌅 This unique complex, with its grass-covered roof harmonizing with the surrounding hills, is a masterpiece of architecture and nature. Here, you can indulge in exquisite Japanese and Western sweets, watch the artisans at work making the famous baumkuchen, and relax in an atmosphere that is both calming and creatively inspiring.

Your exclusive journey, which began after breakfast and spanned the day's sights until sunset, covers a total distance of approximately 70 kilometers, with an estimated travel time of 2.5 hours.

🏨 Overnight in Osaka.

After breakfast, your spectacular tour of Kobe begins with a visit to the serene Maiko Park. 🏞️ This beautiful coastal spot offers magnificent, up-close views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in the world. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or, for a more thrilling experience, walk along the Maiko Marine Promenade, a glass-floored walkway that offers incredible views of the Seto Inland Sea.

Following this awe-inspiring start, your English-speaking chauffeur will drive you to the vibrant Kobe Harborland 🛥️, a lively waterfront district. Here, you can immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere, with its shopping malls, cafes, and restaurants. Take in the panoramic views of the port, admire the iconic Kobe Port Tower, or simply relax and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze along the promenade.

In the afternoon, your journey continues to Nankinmachi, Kobe’s lively Chinatown. 🍜 This bustling quarter is a feast for the senses, with its colorful shops and street food stalls offering a delicious array of authentic Chinese cuisine. After exploring the vibrant streets and flavors of Nankinmachi, you will find a peaceful contrast at Sorakuen Garden 🌳, a traditional Japanese landscape garden hidden away in the city center. Its elegant ponds, seasonal flowers, and historic architecture provide a tranquil escape from the urban energy.

As the sun begins to set, your day concludes in the charming Kitano Ijinkan-gai district 🏘️, nestled on the slopes of the Rokko mountains. This historic area, known for its beautifully preserved Western-style residences from the Meiji and Taisho eras, reflects Kobe’s unique cosmopolitan past. You can tour the elegant houses, admire the European-influenced architecture, and take in the scenic hillside views overlooking the city.

Your exclusive journey, which began after breakfast and spanned the day's sights until sunset, covers a total distance of approximately 25 kilometers, with an estimated travel time of 1 hour.

🏨 Overnight stay in Osaka.

After a delightful breakfast, your journey begins with a swift and comfortable ride aboard the Shinkansen bullet train to the enchanting city of Kyoto 🚄. In a mere 15 minutes, you'll traverse approximately 50 kilometers, arriving ready to explore. Your first stop is the magnificent Kiyomizu-dera Temple, where you can soak in breathtaking panoramic views of the cityscape 🏯. Afterward, you'll wander through the historic Higashiyama District, a charming area brimming with traditional shops and teahouses, where you will also enjoy a delicious Japanese lunch 🍱.

The afternoon holds more cultural wonders, starting with a visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its mesmerizing path of thousands of vibrant red torii gates ⛩️. Next, you'll delve into the Gion District, Kyoto’s renowned geisha quarter, a place where ancient traditions come to life. To round off this incredible day, you will take a relaxing evening stroll along the picturesque Kamogawa River 🏞️ before retiring for a peaceful overnight stay in Kyoto 🏨. (Note: Transportation to and from the railway station is not included.)

Overnight in Kyoto 🏨.

Following breakfast, your journey begins with a visit to Nara, the "city of deer." 🦌 You will start at Nara Park, where you'll have the unique opportunity to interact with hundreds of friendly Sika deer. Considered messengers of the gods, these gentle creatures symbolize the city's deep historical and spiritual roots. You can feed them and capture memorable photos before heading to Todaiji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside this magnificent centuries-old temple, you will stand in awe of the colossal bronze Great Buddha, feeling the grandeur and solemnity that has drawn pilgrims for over a thousand years.

The tour then continues to Uji, the birthplace of Japan’s finest matcha.🍵 Strolling along the picturesque Uji River, you will visit the iconic Byodoin Temple, famous for its beautiful Phoenix Hall and tranquil gardens. Afterward, you will immerse yourself in the rich matcha culture by exploring Uji’s Matcha Food Street, where you can savor authentic matcha sweets and delicacies, experiencing the true essence of Japanese tea tradition.

As the sun begins to set, the final highlight of your day will be a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha ⛩️, one of Kyoto’s most celebrated shrines. You will walk through its mesmerizing Thousand Torii Gate Corridor, where the vibrant red gates create a magical interplay of sunlight and shadows, offering an atmosphere that is both mysterious and sacred.

Your exclusive journey, which began after breakfast and spanned the three great cities of Kyoto, Nara, and Uji until sunset, covers a total distance of approximately 100 kilometers, with an estimated travel time of 3 hours.

🏨 Overnight in Kyoto.

After breakfast, explore Kyoto at your own pace with a two-day Hop-On Hop-Off pass aboard an open-top double-decker bus. This flexible and convenient mode of transport allows you to visit Kyoto's top landmarks at your leisure.

🌸 Highlights of Your Tour:
🚍 Scenic Ride: Enjoy a relaxing ride through Kyoto’s historic and cultural landmarks aboard the world-famous Sky Bus.
🏯 Iconic Sites: Visit major attractions like Nijo Castle, Heian Shrine, and many more.
🎧 Audio Commentary: Listen to pre-recorded commentary in multiple languages, providing rich insights into Kyoto’s history, culture, and imperial past.
🗺️ Customize Your Journey: Hop off at any stop, explore each attraction for as long as you like, then hop back on the bus to continue your journey.

This is the perfect way to experience the beauty and history of Kyoto in a flexible and relaxing manner.

Overnight in Kyoto.

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely day to explore Kyoto at your own pace. Take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the city's serene charm, blending traditional culture with modern attractions.

You may choose to visit additional iconic landmarks like:

• The Philosopher's Path: A tranquil walking trail lined with cherry trees, especially beautiful during spring.
• Nishiki Market: A vibrant marketplace known for its diverse local cuisine and specialty shops, offering a taste of Kyoto’s culinary delights.

If relaxation is on your mind, consider:

• Spending time at an onsen (hot spring) to unwind.
• Experiencing a traditional tea ceremony at one of Kyoto's historic tea houses.
• Alternatively, venture into the outskirts of Kyoto to discover hidden gems such as:
• Okochi Sanso Villa: A peaceful villa with beautiful gardens and panoramic views.
• The charming streets of Ohara Village, renowned for its rural beauty and local handicrafts.

In the evening, enjoy:

• A peaceful riverside stroll along the Kamogawa River, or
• Indulge in a Kaiseki dinner at a traditional restaurant for an authentic Japanese dining experience.

Overnight in Kyoto.

After a delicious breakfast 🍽️, head to Kyoto Station 🚉 and board the Shinkansen bullet train 🚄 for your 2.5-hour journey to the vibrant city of Tokyo 🌆. During your ride, enjoy a traditional bento box lunch 🍱 as you relax and watch the scenic views. Upon arrival, check into your hotel 🏨 and begin exploring the area. You might want to visit iconic landmarks such as Asakusa Temple 🛕 or the towering Tokyo Skytree 🗼. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant 🍜 and take a leisurely walk through the bustling districts of Shibuya or Shinjuku 🌃.
(Note: Pickup and drop-off at the railway station are not included.)

Overnight in Tokyo 🏨.

After breakfast 🍽️, embark on a scenic full-day bus tour 🚌 from Tokyo to the iconic Mt. Fuji region, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and cultural significance.

Morning Highlights:
⛩️ Visit the Chureito Pagoda, perched atop Mt. Arakurayama. This spot offers sweeping views of Mt. Fuji, framed by vibrant seasonal foliage 🍃, making it a perfect place for capturing stunning photos 📸.

Lunch Break:
🍱 Enjoy lunch at Kawaguchiko Craftpark, where you can savor local delicacies and take a relaxing stroll around Lake Kawaguchi 🌅. Admire the serene setting with Mt. Fuji's reflection on the tranquil lake waters 🌄.

Afternoon Highlights:
🌸 Explore Oishi Park, known for its vibrant seasonal flowers 🌼 creating a colorful foreground against the majestic Mt. Fuji.
🏠 Visit Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba, a charming traditional Japanese village nestled in the foothills. Stroll through thatched-roof houses showcasing local crafts, history, and culture 🏯.

Evening Return:
🌅 Capture final views of Mt. Fuji as the sun sets behind the iconic peak, illuminating the landscape with golden hues 🌞.

Meeting Point:
📍 Location: Shinjuku LOVE Object, in front of Shinjuku I-land Tower
⏰ Time: 8:20 AM
📍 Address: 6-5-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0023

Note: Hotel pickup is not included. You can either walk 🚶‍♀️ or take a taxi 🚖 to reach the meeting point.

🛏️ Overnight in Tokyo 🏨

After breakfast, you will embark on a day of independent exploration with your Hop-On Hop-Off Bus tickets, the perfect way to discover Tokyo's iconic landmarks at your own pace. 🚌 The flexible pass allows you the freedom to create your own itinerary, hopping on and off at convenient stops near major attractions.

You can start your day at the iconic Tokyo Tower, admiring its stunning architecture and panoramic city views. From there, you might choose to visit the serene Meiji Shrine, a peaceful oasis dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The bus also stops at the historic Asakusa District, where you can explore the magnificent Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise-dori shopping street.

As the day continues, you can hop off in the bustling shopping districts of Shibuya, where you'll witness the famous Shibuya Crossing 🚦, or the upscale neighborhood of Ginza, with its luxury boutiques and department stores. This flexible and convenient mode of transport ensures you can visit Tokyo's top sights without the hassle of navigating public transportation, making it an ideal option for a leisurely and personalized sightseeing experience until sunset.

🏨 Overnight in Tokyo.

After breakfast, you will embark on a day of independent exploration with your Hop-On Hop-Off Bus tickets, the perfect way to discover Tokyo's iconic landmarks at your own pace. 🚌 The flexible pass allows you the freedom to create your own itinerary, hopping on and off at convenient stops near major attractions.

You can start your day at the iconic Tokyo Tower, admiring its stunning architecture and panoramic city views. From there, you might choose to visit the serene Meiji Shrine, a peaceful oasis dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The bus also stops at the historic Asakusa District, where you can explore the magnificent Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise-dori shopping street.

As the day continues, you can hop off in the bustling shopping districts of Shibuya, where you'll witness the famous Shibuya Crossing 🚦, or the upscale neighborhood of Ginza, with its luxury boutiques and department stores. This flexible and convenient mode of transport ensures you can visit Tokyo's top sights without the hassle of navigating public transportation, making it an ideal option for a leisurely and personalized sightseeing experience until sunset.

🏨 Overnight in Tokyo.

After a hearty breakfast 🍽️, you'll be transferred to the airport ✈️ for your onward journey, carrying with you unforgettable memories of Japan’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty. If your flight is later in the evening or night, you may store your luggage 🧳 in the hotel’s locker room after check-out. This gives you the chance to explore Tokyo one last time — enjoy a bite of delicious Japanese food 🍜, do some last-minute shopping 🛍️, or visit nearby sights 🏞️. When you're ready, a private cab 🚖 will take you to the airport. Tour ends with fond memories of Japan. Tokyo 🏙️