An Example Itinerary

Traditional Japan for First Timers

Japan

9 Day Itinerary

Best Time

September to November

Guide Price

£9,100pp

$10,900pp

Experience the lively, modern city of Tokyo and the cultural marvels of Kyoto, seamlessly combined with an escape to Hakone at the base of Mount Fiji for a wonderful, traditional first time Japan experience.

Highlights

This trip is perfect for families and activity-lovers of all ages
Stay in the colourful electric jungle that is Tokyo
Travel to the famous Toyosu fish market for breakfast, then try your hand at sushi-making
Combine the fast pace of the modern city with a slow wander through beautiful Japanese temples
Taste world-famous street food in Osaka

Day 1 - 4: Tokyo, Japan

Day 4 - 6: Hakone, Japan

Day 6 - 9: Kyoto, Japan

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 – 4: Tokyo, Japan

Day 4 – 6: Hakone, Japan

Day 6 – 9: Kyoto, Japan

Day 1 - 4: Tokyo, Japan

Rise to the top of the Skytree for unparalleled views over the city
See the mix of Shinto and Buddhist temples dotted around the city

A futuristic and modern capital city, Tokyo is the perfect place to discover the more wacky elements of Japanese culture.

Stay at the Palace Hotel Tokyo for unparalleled views of the skyscraper city, where we recommended making the most of the in-house Evian Spa. Immerse yourself in the world of anime, manga comics and themed cafes as you stroll through Akihabara, also known as Electronic Town. Take a water bus to the surreal island of Odaiba, where futuristic architecture and interactive museums await. Get a taste of Japanese cuisine with breakfast at the Toyosu fish market, followed by a sushi-making workshop, and dinner at one of Tokyo’s many world-class restaurants. Head to Shibuya for the best shopping and a glimpse at the iconic Tokyo crossing, and stroll through colourful Harajuku to see cutting-edge fashion trends and street style – this is some of the best people watching in the world.

View Palace Hotel Tokyo

Day 4 - 6: Hakone, Japan

Explore Lake Ashi in the crater of Mount Fuji by boat and enjoy the Gondola network across the mountain
Spend a few nights in a traditional ryokan for the ultimate in relaxation to include Onsen bathing
Stay in a mountainous national park dotted with lakes to unwind between busy city-hopping trips.

Hakone National Park can be explored by foot on the many hiking trails, or by boat as you glide across the mesmerising Lake Ashi. The mountainous region is also home to Ōwakudani (‘Great Boiling Valley’) which can be admired from above in a cable car. Stay at Gora Kadan, blending Japanese hospitality with contemporary elements to create a tranquil base from which to explore the onsen hot springs and natural landscapes of the Hakone National Park.

View Gora Kadan

Day 6 - 9: Kyoto, Japan

Enjoy a zen meditation session at one of Kyoto’s temples
See the stunning water features in the Kyoto Garden

Kyoto is Japan in a nutshell – the cultural and historical heart of the country and the best place to experience the traditions, temples and geishas of Japan.

Nestled amongst leafy green trees in a central location, the Hyatt Regency is the ideal place to rest your head at night. Get a feel for ancient Japanese culture as you make your way around the magnificent temples and Shinto shrines of Kyoto. Wander through the towering Bamboo Groves in Arashiyama and visit the Gion District for a tea ceremony with a Maiko. Get up close to sacred deer on a day trip to Nara Park and taste the incredible array of street food in the Dotonbori district of Osaka (also famed for its neon lights).

View Hyatt Regency Kyoto

What is typically included

11 nights Bed & Breakfast
All train tickets
Full day of private guiding in Tokyo & Kyoto
Fish market visit & sushi-making class
Tea ceremony
Domestic flights & private airport transfers