Tokyo to Kyushu: A Fusion of Culture&Cuisine&Scenic Beauty

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.

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.

Zojo-ji Temple is the head temple of the Jodo sect of Japanese Buddhism, in Kanto. Standing next to Tokyo Tower at 1,092 feet (333 meters) tall, the grounds of this beautiful temple include a mausoleum of the Tokugawa family and a small museum.

Tokyo Tower stands as the world's tallest self-supported steel tower, towering three meters above its inspiration, the Eiffel Tower. Built in 1958, it offers stunning panoramic views of Tokyo's cityscape and serves as a cultural symbol blending modernity and tradition. Don't miss this iconic landmark that encapsulates Japan's architectural prowess and rich cultural heritage.

Akihabara, often referred to as "Electric Town," is Tokyo's premier district for electronics, as well as a popular hub for immersing oneself in anime and manga culture.

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.

Embark on a scenic visit to Oishi Park, situated along the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko. This charming location boasts year-round floral displays, providing a delightful backdrop to Mt. Fuji. Capture the beauty of seasonal flowers and the iconic reflection of Mt. Fuji on the tranquil lake.

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.

Hakone, nestled in the heart of the Kanto region, awaits your exploration on our 'Hakone Day Tour.'

Begin your adventure at Lake Ashino, where you'll board the iconic 'Hakone Pirate Ship.' As you sail across the tranquil waters, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of majestic Mount Fuji and the pristine lake.

Next, you'll embark on the 'Hakone Ropeway,' which offers a delightful scenic ride. You'll be captivated by the picturesque landscapes along the way.

You'll venture to Owakudani, a geological wonder shaped by volcanic activity over 4,000 years ago. Here, you'll witness white plumes of smoke rising from the earth and catch the distinctive scent of sulfur in the air. Owakudani is also famous for its legendary 'black jade,' believed to have life-prolonging properties. It is said that consuming a piece of this jade can extend your life by seven years, adding a touch of mystique to your visit.

You'll then take a Shinkansen (Bullet Train) to Kyoto (Ticket Included). Upon your arrival, you'll then be taken to your hotel via a private car.

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 Tenryu-ji Temple, recognized for its sprawling gardens and stunning views, the towering stalks of the Sagano Bamboo Forest, and finally the Togetsukyo Bridge.

Okochi-Sanso Villa is one of Kyoto’s most stunning building complexes. The main house here is one of the finest examples of traditional Japanese residential architecture anywhere, and you even a free cup of macha at the teahouse along with your ticket. 

Dating back to the 14th century, Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) is a must-visit attraction in Kyoto. Its golden tiers are reflected in the lake below, creating a truly enchanting sight amidst a backdrop of forests and ancient pines.

Founded in 778, Kiyomizu-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. There is also beauty to be found in its maple trees in autumn as well.

Explore Yasaka Shrine and stroll down the enchanting Hanamikoji Dori tourist shopping street.

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.

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, the headquarters of some 30,000 Inari shrines around the country, with a history tracing back to the 8th century.

From there, our tour will lead you to the enchanting town of Uji, renowned for its top-quality tea. Uji holds the distinction of being one of the earliest locations in Japan where green tea was cultivated.

Then, we’ll take you down to Uji, famous for its high-quality macha tea and the earliest place where green tea was first cultivated in Japan.

Discover the ancient charm of Ujigami Shrine, thought to be Japan's oldest surviving shrine, dating back over a thousand years. Estimated to have been established by 1060, this sacred site once served as the guardian shrine of the nearby Byodoin Temple. Steeped in history and set in the tranquil city of Uji, Ujigami Shrine offers visitors a serene glimpse into Japan's spiritual past.

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.

There is a street full of matcha, and you can shop here for souvenirs.

Look on the front of a Japanese 10 yen coin and you'll see Byodoin Temple's famous Hou-ou-do Hall, also known as Amida Hall or Phoenix Hall. This building is one of the country's most well-known examples of Buddhist architecture and the only original structure of the Byodoin Temple complex that remains today.

Next, visit the historic Osaka Castle Park, behold the castle itself in all its splendor, and get a glimpse into what life was life as a member of the shogunate.

At Ninja-do, you’ll take part in a ninja training experience, guided by friendly instructors who’ll imparting skills such as Shuriken throwing and more!

Check out the Donki Ferris wheel, with its one-of-a-kind shape, located outside the renowned store Don Quixote, affectionately known as “Donki.”

Dotonbori, a well-known shopping and entertainment district, is also famous as a culinary haven. When night falls, it transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle illuminated by countless neon lights and animated signs. Don't miss the opportunity to savor over 10 diverse and delectable flavors, including Takoyaki, Shioyaki, Kobe Beef, Okonomiyaki, Yakitori, Taiyaki, Yakisoba, Ikayaki, and more!

Today, you'll be taken to ITM airport for your flight to Fukuoka. Upon your arrival, you'll take a private car to your hotel.

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 Ichiran-no-mori store is the only combination workshop/store in Japan. At Ichiran-no-mori, only the noodles that were made that day are brought from the workshop to the store, where they are provided to customers. Matured noodles are delicious, but at Ichiran-no-mori you can enjoy the slightly different textures and flavors of freshly-made super raw noodles.Meoto Iwa are two sacred rocks The larger of the two rocks represents the husband and the smaller one represents the wife. Both rocks are connected by a shimenawa rope which acts as the division between the spiritual and earthly realms. In a ceremony, the shimenawa rope is replaced three times a year.If you're a true seafood lover, the Oyster Hut at Silk Island is a must! Different from the ordinary Japanese tatami restaurant, it is a more relaxed atmosphere and closely connected with the local fishing industry. Order fresh oysters and seafood, and let them season and cook to their liking.Shiraito Falls are on the Itoshima Peninsula, near the source of the Kawatsuki River. The falls are visited all year, but they are particularly popular in the hot summer months when they turn their surroundings into a cool escape.Standing above the Momochi district is 234m-tall Fukuoka Tower, Japan's tallest seaside spire, a symbol of the city and mostly hollow (its main purpose is as a broadcast tower).  There's an observation deck at 123m and a cafe for soaking up the views, especially at dusk and nighttime. 

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A city in southern Fukuoka Prefecture , Yanagawa is often called "the city of water" and "the Venice of Kyushu" because of its 930 kilometers of waterways, which were originally built as irrigation channels using the waters of the Chikugo River.  Yanagawa now offers slow, scenic cruises down the waterways in flatboats known as donkobune, poled along by boatmen in traditional wear.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.Mount Aso is an active volcano in the center of Kyushu which most recently erupted in 2021 and 2016.  Aso's ancient caldera ranks among the world's largest, with a diameter of up to 25 kilometers and a circumference of over 100 kilometers.  In the center of the caldera stand the mountain's active volcanic peaks, including Mount Nakadake, whose spectacular crater is accessible to tourists.The view of Kusasenri is one of the iconic scenes of Kumamoto; a vast emerald green grassland plateau with peacefully grazing cows and horses reflected in the still crater ponds on the top of the central peaks of Aso.

Embark on a sky-high adventure as you traverse the Kokonoe Yume Grand Suspension Bridge in western Oita Prefecture. Japan's longest and loftiest pedestrian bridge, it offers panoramic vistas of Oita's lush countryside, featuring two waterfalls, the Naruko River, and a valley 173 meters below, creating an unforgettable walking-on-air experience.

Experience the enchanting Lake Kinrin, where freshwater and hot springs merge, creating a year-round spectacle of steam rising from the surface. The lake's name, "Golden Fish Scale," finds inspiration from the fish swimming in its waters, their scales resembling a golden glitter at sunset. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this natural wonder, complemented by the captivating phenomenon of rising steam, especially on crisp winter mornings.

Discover the mysterious and temperamental springs of Beppu in its Kannawa and Kamegawa regions, collectively known as Beppu's Jigoku or the Seven Hells of Beppu. Witness the mesmerizing display of the otherworldly expulsions of gas, iron oxide-rich steam, and bubbling hot mud, which have captivated vistors and locals since ancient times.

Explore the heart of Yufuin on Yunotsubo Kaido Street, stretching from Yufuin Station to Lake Kinrinko. Spend an hour or two exploring unique shops, cafes, and galleries, where you can delight in local delicacies and take in the charming ambiance, making it an ideal spot to shop and wind down, all against the backdrop of Mt. Yufu.

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