Japan Essential Tour

Upon your arrival in Tokyo, your driver will welcome you at your airport’s arrival hall and get you to your hotel in a private vehicle.

One of our pro English-speaking guides shall assist you throughout your trip.

Welcome to Meiji Jingu Shrine This shrine is the largest and most powerful spot in Tokyo. Meiji Jingu enshrines Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken as its deities.

Harajuku is the center of kawaii and young fashion Japanese style.

Omotesando, tree-lined avenue is Tokyo’s answer to the grand thoroughfares of Paris., just like the Champs-Élysées, is lined with high-end shopping.

Senso-ji Temple Tokyo`s oldest and most prominent temple. The magestic Senso-Ji Buddhist Temple is almost 1400 years old and is a symbol of Asakusa and the entire city of Tokyo.

Embark on a journey through the renowned Tsukiji Fish Market, a world-famous Japanese seafood market that not only offers fresh seafood but also an array of fruits, chicken, vegetables, and more.

Afterward, take a leisurely stroll at Odaiba Marine Park, offering splendid photo opportunities with attractions such as the Rainbow Bridge, a Statue of Liberty replica, and more, all overlooking Tokyo Bay.

Experience Tokyo from the "Sky Edge" at the Shibuya Sky Observation Deck, which offers an unobstructed view of the Tokyo cityscape from above Shibuya.

Pay homage to the infamous Akita dog Hachiko with a visit to his iconic statue in Shibuya.

In West Lake, discover the charm of Japan's unique thick-thatched roof cottages known as West Lake Village. Enjoy a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance, with the village offering a serene ambiance with murmuring books, singing birds, and blooming flowers.

Next, venture to Oshino Hakkai, a cluster of eight springs in the quaint village of Oshino within the Fuji Five Lake region. Renowned for its crystal-clear and drinkable spring water, sourced from porous layers of hardened lava.

Explore the stunning Narusawa Hyoketsu Ice Cave, situated at the east entrance to the Aokigahara Jukai "sea of trees" forest in the Five Lakes area. Formed over 1150 years ago by the lava flow from Nagaoyama, a flank volcano of Mt. Fuji, this two-tunnel looping cave is open for visits year-round.

At Arakurayama Sengen Park, enjoy panoramic views of Mount Fuji and Fujiyoshida City, especially enchanting at night. In spring, cherry blossoms create a breathtaking scene around Arakura Fuji Sengen-jinja Shrine and its pagoda, both nestled within the park.

Explore the historical allure of Matsumoto Castle, renowned as one of Japan's original and meticulously preserved castles. This "hirajiro," situated on plains rather than elevated terrain, stands out for its unique combination of a secondary donjon and an adjoining turret to the main keep. The castle's elegant structures, complemented by distinctive black wainscoting, exude a sense of grandeur and sophistication.

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Suwa, the largest lake in Nagano Prefecture, nestled in the heart of Suwa. Adorned with cherry blossoms in spring and illuminated by summer fireworks, the lake offers a picturesque setting. During warmer months, engage in various lake activities, including pleasure cruises, amphibious bus tours, and fishing.

Journey to Suwa Taisha (Suwa Grand Shrine), a venerable and significant shrine located southeast of Matsumoto. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, Suwa Taisha holds cultural and historical importance at the country's geographical center.

Nestled in steep mountains, Shirakawa-go is a picturesque village surrounded by 96% forest. It's part of Hakusan National Park and Tiansheng Prefectural Natural Park, preserving ancient natural beauty.

Explore the Takayama Jinya, once a government office from Edo (present-day Tokyo). Now a museum, it served officials until 1969, providing visitors a glimpse into governance during the historical Edo period.

You'll then board a Shinkansen (Bullet Train) to Kyoto.

Founded in 778, Kiyomizu-dera temple is one of Kyoto's oldest monasteries. The Shimizu stage hanging in front of this hall is a precious cultural relic of Japan, surrounded by green trees, and the area is particularly beautiful in spring, when cherry blossoms are in full bloom, making it one of the most beautiful spots in Kyoto.

Built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of the first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, Nijo Castle stands as a testament to Japan's feudal era. Its palace buildings showcase the finest examples of castle palace architecture. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994, Nijo Castle offers a glimpse into the country's rich history.

Filled with over 1000 years of history and culture, Arashiyama has remained a popular destination while keeping its pristine natural beauty. In a half-day walking tour, visit many stunning historical attractions like Tenryuji Temple, recognized for its sprawling gardens and stunning views, the towering stalks of the Sagano Bamboo Forest, and finally the Togetsukyo Bridge.

Get to these destinations by hopping aboard the Sagano Scenic Railway. This train journey along the Hozugawa River, guided by an old-fashioned engine, promises a leisurely and scenic route.

Fushimi Inari Shrine/Red Torii Gates is an important Shinto shrine in southern Kyoto.  It is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which straddle a network of trails behind its main buildings.  The trails lead into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari, which stands at 233 meters and belongs to the shrine grounds.

Ujigami Shrine is believed to be the oldest standing shrine in Japan. Although there is no official record of when it was first constructed, experts estimate that Ujigami Shrine was well established by 1060. It was closely linked to Byodoin Temple as its "guardian shrine".Uji is famous for its green tea.  While Kozanji Temple in Kyoto is believed to be the original site of tea cultivation in Japan, Uji's tea became better known for its superior quality in the 1100s.

Omotesando in Uji is a charming, historic street that leads up to the famous Byodo-in Temple. Lined with traditional tea shops, artisan boutiques, and cafes, it’s the perfect place to experience Uji’s renowned matcha culture. Visitors can enjoy tasting premium green teas, try matcha-flavored treats, and explore shops selling handcrafted ceramics and souvenirs. With its quaint atmosphere and rich cultural heritage, Omotesando offers an authentic glimpse into Uji’s unique tea traditions and timeless charm.

Byodo-in Temple in Uji is a masterpiece of Japanese architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its elegant Phoenix Hall, which appears to float serenely over a reflecting pond. Originally built in 1052, the temple offers visitors a journey back in time to Japan’s Heian Period, with intricate carvings, peaceful gardens, and a museum showcasing historical treasures, including the renowned Phoenix statues. Byodo-in Temple’s breathtaking beauty, often reflected in the still waters surrounding it, also inspired the design of Japan’s 10-yen coin, making it a must-visit landmark for both history lovers and those seeking tranquility.

Enjoy your final day in Japan until your guide arrives to escort you to Osaka International airport for your departing flight.