Tokyo to Kyushu Expedition

Upon your arrival in Tokyo, your driver will welcome you at Tokyo Narida/Haneda 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.

Today you'll visit Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most distinguished Buddhist temple, with a rich history spanning nearly 1400 years. This majestic temple serves as a symbol of Asakusa and the entire city.

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.

teamLab Planets Tokyo is an innovative art experience curated by the renowned art collective, teamLab. Boasting cutting-edge technology like projection and motion capture, its immersive and genre-defying galleries have made it one of Tokyo's top tourist attractions.

Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo's largest and most influential spiritual site. Located just beside the JR Yamanote Line's busy Harajuku Station, the Shrine and the adjacent Yoyogi Park make up a large forested area within the densely built-up city. The spacious shrine grounds offer walking paths that are great for a relaxing stroll.

Next, you’ll venture to Harajuku, the heart of Japan's 'kawaii' culture and youth fashion.

Odaiba Marine Park, situated on the banks of Tokyo Bay, provides stunning views of the city skyline, attracting both locals and tourists. 

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.

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.

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Jigokudani Monkey Park, where wild Japanese Macaques, affectionately known as Snow Monkeys, bath in the area’s natural hot springs. Located in the scenic Jigokudani valley near Shibu and Yudanaka onsen towns, this park offers a unique encounter with these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

Zenko-ji Temple is at the heart of Nagano's rich history and cultural identity. Founded over 1,400 years ago, this revered temple sparked the growth of Nagano as a vibrant temple town, attracting pilgrims from across Japan. Known for housing the first Buddhist statue ever brought to Japan, Zenko-ji remains a site of spiritual importance and historical charm. Visitors can explore its stunning architecture, participate in traditional rituals, and experience the serene atmosphere that has made Zenko-ji an iconic destination in Nagano.

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.

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 explore Kanazawa, a town comprised of both centuries-old architecture and modern, giving it a distinctive and timeless charm. Once the stronghold of the powerful Maeda Clan, this Edo-period city rivaled Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo) in cultural achievements. Explore highlights like the historic Nagamachi Samurai district, Kanazawa Castle, the stunning Kenrokuen Garden, and the traditional geisha houses of the Higashi Chaya District.

Today you'll take a Shinkansen (Bullet Train) to Kyoto（2hrs 26min). Upon your arrival, you'll be taken to your hotel in a private vehicle.

Visit the Kodai-ji Temple in Kyoto's Higashiyama District, established in 1606 in memory of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan’s Great Unifiers. The main buildings showcase lavish interiors surrounded by beautiful Zen gardens. Explore this cultural gem, steeped in history and nestled in the heart of Kyoto.

Nene no Michi, situated in Higashiyama Ward along a prominent tourist route in eastern Kyoto, preserves a Kyoto of a bygone era. This street stands out for adhering to a more traditional architectural style, with a distinctive absence of garish signs and buried telephone wires—a rarity in the city. Experience the beauty and uniqueness of Nene no Michi, offering a glimpse into Kyoto's historical charm.

Yasaka Shrine, renowned for its annual Gion Matsuri held every July, stands as one of the most celebrated festivals in Japan. With a history spanning over a thousand years, the Gion Matsuri features a grand procession featuring massive floats and hundreds of participants, making it a cultural spectacle not to be missed.

Experience the charm of Kyoto's geisha culture in the evening at Hanamikoji Geisha District, particularly along the south side of Shijo-dori. A leisurely stroll through this area often rewards visitors with the enchanting sight of geisha.

Enjoy seven vignettes of traditional Japanese performing arts in a captivating one-hour show at the Gion Corner theater. The program features chanoyu (tea preparation), koto music, ikebana flower arrangement, bugaku dance, kyogen comedy, and Kyomai dance. Depending on the season, the show includes scenes from either bunraku puppet theater or a noh play. Each attendee can also opt in for a digital tablet providing detailed information and translations throughout the performance.

Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, situated in Kyoto, Japan, is a prominent center of the Jodo Shinshu sect of Buddhism, alongside the nearby Nishi Hongan-ji Temple. Established in 1602, the temple is renowned for its grand architecture, including the Goei-do, one of the world's largest wooden structures, and the nearby Amidado Hall.

Sanjusangendo, also known as Rengeo-in, is a renowned temple in eastern Kyoto celebrated for its remarkable collection of 1001 statues depicting Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The centerpiece is a wooden statue of a 1000-armed Kannon (Senju Kannon), flanked on either side by 500 human-sized statues of the same deity, forming a breathtaking spectacle within the temple.

Known as "Kyoto's Kitchen," Nishiki Market is a bustling shopping street with over a hundred shops and restaurants. This narrow, five-block-long market is a culinary haven, featuring fresh seafood, produce, traditional knives, and Kyoto specialties. Explore this lively market to discover a wide array of seasonal foods and unique Japanese treats.

Immerse yourself in Kyoto's cultural traditions with a Kimono and Tea Ceremony Experience. Don traditional kimonos during this memorable tea ceremony guided by an expert tea master. Gain insights into the history, etiquette, and significance of the ceremony, and participate in making matcha green tea under their guidance.

Himeji Castle, known as the White Heron Castle (Shirasagijo) for its elegant, white appearance, stands as Japan's most spectacular castle. Renowned for its imposing size and beauty, it is a national treasure and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Unlike many other Japanese castles, Himeji Castle has withstood the test of time, remaining unscathed by war, earthquake, or fire, making it one of the country's twelve original castles.

Today, you'll go on a guided tour through Hiroshima, principal city of the Chugoku Region and home to over a million inhabitants.

Visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, the last standing remnant of the original Hiroshima from before it was bombed.

Then, take a stroll around Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park (Heiwa Kinen Kōen) nearby, one of the most prominent attractions in the city, which covers over 120,000 square meters of land. Its trees, lawns, and walking paths are in stark contrast to the surrounding downtown area.

Hiroshima Castle, also known as Carp Castle, was originally built in the 1590s before then being destroyed in the bombing. It was rebuilt in 1958 and since then has served as a museum of Hiroshima’s history before World War II.

Miyajima island, with its grand forests, temples and wild deer, make for a beloved tourist spot. In the day the deer mingle with the tourists and sleep along the walking paths in the evening. Unfortunately, unlike at Nara, the deer on Miyajima are not allowed to be fed.

The centuries-old Itsukushima Shrine (Itsukushima Jinja) is the source of both the island's fame and its name: Miyajima literally means "shrine island" in Japanese. The shrine is known worldwide for its iconic "floating" torii gate, as the gate looks as if it floats when the tide comes in and the waters completely cover the ground.

A historic wooden arch bridge located in Iwakuni and constructed in 1673, Kintai Bridge features a series of five enormous wooden arches spanning the Nishiki River. It is situated at the base of Mt. Yokotama, crowned by the renowned Iwakuni Castle built over seventy years earlier.

Today, you'll take a Bullet Train to Fukuoka (Hakata) (1hrs 6min）

Upon your arrival, you'll be taken to you hotel via a private vehicle, where you'll then have the rest of the day free.

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is a shrine dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, a scholarly figure from the Heian Period. Visitors can explore the captivating grounds of this gorgeous and serene shrine, and even participate in routine rituals.

Established in 2005, Kyushu National Museum is Japan's fourth national museum and a departure from the late 19th-century structures in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara. Distinguished by its unique design, the museum's glass walls seamlessly blend with the surrounding scenery, reflecting the sky and mountains, marking a unique addition to Japan's museum landscape.

Nanzoin Temple in Sasaguri, Fukuoka Prefecture, is not just home to the world's largest bronze Reclining Buddha; it's a tourist haven. Marvel at the impressive dimensions of the Buddha, standing 41 meters in length and 11 meters in height. Beyond this awe-inspiring statue, visitors can explore the temple grounds, engage in cultural activities, and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Step into the lively world of Canal City Hakata, a dynamic shopping and entertainment complex within the center of the city. Known as a "city within the city." it features a theater, cinema, game center, two hotels and around 250 diverse shops, indulge in delightful cafes and restaurants.

The Nagasaki Peace Park is dedicated to commemorating the atomic bombing of Nagasaki on August 9, 1945. The park, consisting of two serene parks and a museum, serves as a poignant reminder of history's impact on the city.

Gain insight into the profound effects the bombing with a visit to Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum. A top tourist attraction, the museum is integral to understanding Nagasaki's post-war narrative, offering a thought-provoking experience.

Step back in time at Glover Garden, an open-air museum showcasing mansions of Nagasaki's former foreign residents from the late 19th century. Nestled on the hill where Western merchants settled after Japan's era of seclusion, Glover Garden provides a captivating glimpse into the city's historical tapestry.

Shinchi Chinatown is the oldest Chinatown in Japan, located in downtown Nagasaki. Spanning approximately one city block, this vibrant district boasts a variety of shops and restaurants. Here you can indulge in some of the city’s renowned Chinese-influenced dishes, including Chanpon and Sara Udon, making it the ultimate culinary destination.

Ascend to new heights at Mt. Inasayama Observation Deck. This famed observatory atop Mt. Inasayama offers unparalleled 360-degree views of Nagasaki's captivating landscape. Inasayama Park, with its playgrounds and outdoor amphitheater, adds to the allure, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational delights.

Yanagawa, often dubbed "the city of water" and "the Venice of Kyushu," boasts 930 kilometers of waterways initially constructed for irrigation from the Chikugo River. Today, visitors can enjoy tranquil donkobune flatboat cruises guided by boatmen in traditional attire, immersing themselves in Yanagawa's water-centric charm.

Kumamoto Castle is one of the most impressive castles in Japan.  With large castle grounds and a variety of buildings, Kumamoto Castle offers its visitors one of the most complete castle experiences in Japan.

Suizenji Garden is a spacious, Japanese style landscape garden in Kumamoto, best enjoyed by strolling along a circular path. It was built by the Hosokawa family in the 17th century. The garden reproduces the 53 post stations of the Tokaido, the important road, which connected Edo with Kyoto during the Edo Period, in miniature form, including a small Mt. Fuji.

Kumamon Square is the" "office" "of the famous mascot Kumamon of Kumamoto Prefecture. The bear mascot was created in 2011 to improve public relations in Kumamoto. Kumamon works as an official of the prefecture and is with the dual roles of sales manager and Happiness Manager for Kumamoto Prefecture.

Among the hundreds of Tenmangu Shrines throughout Japan, Dazaifu's is the most important one alongside Kyoto's Kitano Tenmangu. Tenmangu Shrines are dedicated to the spirit of Sugawara Michizane, a scholar and politician of the Heian Period. Because of his great learning, Michizane has been associated with Tenjin, a Shinto deity of education, and is popular among students.

Kyushu National Museum opened in 2005, becoming Japan's fourth national museum. The others, located in Tokyo , Kyoto  and Nara , were all built in the late 19th century, and the Kyushu museum is by far the most architecturally adventurous. Its glass walls reflect the sky and mountains behind and help the entire building blend into the surrounding scenery.

Nanzoin Temple in Sasaguri, Fukuoka Prefecture, is home to what is possibly the world's biggest bronze statue. The Reclining Buddha's dimensions are impressive, 41 meters in length, 11 meters in height, and weighing in at 300 tons it dwarfs the famous giant bronze Buddha statues of Kamakura and Nara.Canal City Hakata is a large shopping and entertainment complex, calling itself a "city within the city". Attractions include about 250 shops, cafes and restaurants, a theater, game center, cinemas, two hotels and a canal running through the complex.

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