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From Tokyo to Kyoto: Crafting an Epic Itinerary for Your Japan Tour

Planning a trip to Japan is an exciting endeavor, and one of the key factors in ensuring a memorable experience is crafting the perfect itinerary. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, Japan offers endless possibilities for exploration. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, here’s a guide to help you create an epic itinerary for your Japan tour.

Exploring Tokyo: The Gateway to Japan

As the bustling capital city of Japan, Tokyo is often the first stop for travelers embarking on their journey. With its futuristic skyscrapers, historic temples, and world-class cuisine, Tokyo offers a diverse range of experiences.

Start your exploration in Tokyo by visiting iconic landmarks such as the Imperial Palace and Meiji Shrine. Take a stroll through the vibrant neighborhood of Harajuku, known for its quirky fashion and trendy shops. For a taste of traditional Japanese culture, head to Asakusa where you can marvel at the Senso-ji Temple and explore Nakamise Shopping Street.

Don’t miss out on experiencing modern Tokyo either. Visit Shibuya Crossing – one of the busiest intersections in the world – and immerse yourself in the bright lights and energy of this vibrant district. For panoramic views of the city skyline, make your way up Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower.

Discovering Kyoto: A Glimpse into Ancient Japan

After immersing yourself in the urban excitement of Tokyo, it’s time to venture into ancient Japan by making your way to Kyoto. Known for its traditional architecture, serene gardens, and historical heritage sites, Kyoto offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural past.

Start your exploration by visiting Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf that is truly awe-inspiring. Take a stroll through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and be enchanted by its towering bamboo stalks. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience a traditional tea ceremony in one of Kyoto’s many tea houses.

Kyoto is also home to numerous Shinto shrines, including Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of torii gates that form a mesmerizing pathway through the forested hillside. For those interested in Japanese history, a visit to Nijo Castle is a must. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of the shoguns.

Unforgettable Experiences Beyond Tokyo and Kyoto

While Tokyo and Kyoto are undoubtedly must-visit destinations in Japan, there are countless other cities and regions that offer unique experiences.

Consider exploring Hiroshima, the city known for its tragic history but also for its resilience and hope. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum to learn about the devastating effects of the atomic bomb and witness the city’s remarkable transformation into a symbol of peace.

If you’re seeking natural beauty, head to Hakone and soak in hot springs while enjoying breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Alternatively, visit Nara – home to friendly deer roaming freely through ancient temples and gardens.

To truly immerse yourself in Japanese culture, consider attending a traditional festival such as Gion Matsuri in Kyoto or Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori. These vibrant celebrations showcase Japan’s rich cultural heritage and offer an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Crafting an epic itinerary for your Japan tour is all about balancing iconic landmarks with off-the-beaten-path destinations. Whether you’re captivated by the bright lights of Tokyo or enchanted by the ancient temples of Kyoto, Japan offers something for every traveler seeking an unforgettable journey through this fascinating country.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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Japan Family Holiday

12 days | an action-packed family adventure from the tokyo streets to kyoto’s eats.

Gather up the brood and embark on an adventure through the Land of the Rising Sun on this 12-day family tour of Japan. From the houses of ancient emperors to technological gizmos, this tour packs in the best stuff to see and do as a family, plus plenty of time to kick back and soak it up in the onsen. Learn the art of calligraphy in Tokyo, feast on sushi at the famous Tsukiji Fish Market, ride the Hakone ropeway for views of Mt Fuji and immerse yourself in Japanese culture in Kyoto. With the local expertise of your leader to draw on at every step of the way, this is a family holiday that’s sure to yield lifelong memories.

Trip overview

• Japan is an exhilarating and unique destination that also happens to be incredibly safe, which makes it a great fit for families travelling with kids of any age.
• Let Tokyo dazzle the whole family. Feast on market-fresh sushi, try your hand at calligraphy and cook your own okonomiyaki on a cruise around Tokyo Bay.
• Ride the Hakone ropeway then relax in the soothing waters of an onsen. These hot-spring baths are the perfect antidote to a couple of days of walking around Tokyo.
• From the tiny stalls in the back streets of Tokyo to the Nishiki-Koji Market, your leader will help you and your family navigate Japan’s dizzying cuisine and find something for everyone.
• Learn about an important chapter of Japan’s history at the Hiroshima Peace Park, followed by a visit to the relaxing island of Miyajima where deer roam the streets.
• There is still quite a bit of walking involved, so you'll need a good level of fitness. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
• Sleeping on a futon on a tatami (mat floor) in a traditional ryokan is great fun, but keep in mind that in some places the facilities are shared. As part of this you'll get to experience a traditional Japanese onsen bath, such as the hot springs in Hakone!

Renovation works on Miyajima's famous floating torii gate started in June 2019. During the renovation works, the torii gate is covered up under a partially transparent scaffolding. Furthermore, a bridge is being built on the left side of the gate (when viewed from the shrine) to aid the renovation works. A date for the completion of the renovation works has not been set yet, but the works are expected to take at least one year.

Konnichiwa! Welcome to Tokyo, Japan's dynamic capital. Make your way to your tonight's accommodation and check in. Your adventure begins with an important welcome meeting at 5 pm in the hotel lobby, where you'll meet your leader and be introduced to the other families. Afterwards, consider joining the group for an optional dinner at a local restaurant.

• Hotel Keihan Ginza Tsukiji Grande or similar (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information for each member of your family. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Kick things off with a visit to Sensoji in Asakusa, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple (some 1300 years old!) set on the banks of the Sumida River. Nearby you will discover a great shopping street where you can find a quirky Japanese souvenir or sample some traditional snacks. Later, you and your family will be treated to a traditional calligraphy lesson. Learn to write your name in Japanese (and maybe learn to say a few words) with the help of a local teacher. There might also be the chance to visit a manga (Japanese comic and cartoon) market, located in Akihabara. Enjoy free time in the afternoon. Perhaps head across town to Shinjuku, central Tokyo's most vibrant district and home to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building which offers panoramic city views from its 202-metre-high observation deck, as well as a giant Godzilla statue. 

• Tokyo - Japanese & Calligraphy lesson
• Tokyo - Sensoji Temple
• Tokyo - Karaoke - JPY2000
• Tokyo Government Tower - Free

This morning your tour leader will take you for a walk around the famous Tsukiji Outer Market, where fresh seafood from Tokyo's largest wholesale fish market (recently moved from Tsukiji to a new site at Toyosu) is delivered daily. Wander the narrow aisles of this atmospheric marketplace to find all sorts of delicious and uniquely Japanese food – from fish and shellfish to barrels of green tea, dried seaweed and all manner of pickles and other tasty morsels. Afterwards, pop into one of the many sushi restaurants nearby for the freshest lunch you could hope for! Then head to expansive Yoyogi Park, and wander down Takeshita Dori and Omotesando to people watch your way through Harajuku, a neighbourhood simultaneously known for its eccentric tribes and teen pop culture. Sample one of Harajuku’s famous crepes or try some of its 3D latte art, said to be the best in Tokyo! Tonight head out for a fun meal of Monjayaki (a non-sweet pancake with mixed ingredients with soft batter as base) cooked on a sizzling hot plate while aboard a boat on Tokyo Bay, surrounded by the sparkling lights of the city.

• Tokyo - Yoyogi Park
• Tokyo - Seafood market & sushi lunch
• Tokyo – Harajuku walk
• Tokyo - Monjayaki Dinner on Boat
• Tokyo - Kawaii Monster Cafe - JPY500

Bid farewell to Tokyo and catch the first Shinkansen bullet train of the tour to Hakone, travelling speeds up to 285 kilometres per hour. You will see that it's astonishingly easy to travel by train in Japan. Trains operate with amazing precision and the sight of a white-gloved guard bowing to a carriage full of travellers is something the kids are sure to remember! Part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Hakone is a place of staggering natural beauty. It's also a veritable playground with a long list of holiday activities on offer – soaking in hot spring onsens, going on bush walks, chilling out by peaceful lakes, taking in beautiful views of Mt Fuji (if you’re blessed with good weather!), or even exploring an open-air modern art museum. Tonight you’ll experience Japanese ryokan (traditional inn) hospitality – sleeping on futon in a tatami mat room, wearing yukata (a light kimono-style robe) and enjoying Japan’s amazing onsen culture.

• Fuji Hakone Guest House (Ryokan) or similar (1 night)
• Hakone - Open-Air Museum - JPY1600

You will have the option to send your bags on to Hiroshima. This is an optional service for all families that your leader will discuss with you on the trip. The cost is around USD 13–20 per bag paid locally and in JPY. Our accommodation in Hakone has shared facilities.

Renowned as an excellent resort area since the Meiji period, Hakone and its natural onsens make a great place to relax and unwind with the family. Today we take a ropeway  (cable car) up to the top of Owakudani (Geothermal Valley) and hopefully catch views of Mt Fuji, if the weather is right. Continue to Lake Ashinoko, a natural caldera formed after a major volcanic explosion some 3000 years ago, and take a cruise onboard a unique pirate boat. Back on land, pay a visit to the Karakuri Secret Box Museum. Try to open these beautifully hand-crafted boxes or purchase a unique Japanese gift to take home. We might stroll along Hakone’s ancient cedar avenue, which in samurai times was part of the old Tokyo-Kyoto highway. In your free time in the afternoon, you might like to hike through the rare grasslands area of Sengokura or thoroughly pamper yourself at Hakone’s large hot spring theme park which has an amazing variety of baths ranging from the traditional to cave baths and water slides!

• Hakone - Lake Ashinoko boat cruise
• Hakone - Cable car/Ropeway
• Hakone – Karakuri Secret Box Museum
• Hakone - Checkpoint Museum - JPY500
• Hakone – Onsen theme park - JPY1900
• Hakone – Sengokura Grasslands - Free

Back on the bullet-train, we make the journey down the east coast of the Japanese archipelago to the city of Hiroshima. A visit to Hiroshima is sobering, but the tragedy that happened here is an important part of history to confront. In the afternoon, we visit the Genbaku (A-Bomb) Dome and the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, both of which stand as an emotional testament to the fateful day in August 1945 when Hiroshima became the first target for nuclear attack. The dome was just metres from where the bomb detonated and managed to retain its shape, eerily standing exactly how it was prior to the attack. These days it stands as both a symbolic reminder and a monument to peace. In the evening you might like to seek out the savoury pancake okonomiyaki – also a signature Hiroshima dish with its own particular twist. There are lots of casual places to try it in this very friendly and welcoming Japanese city.

• Daiwa Roynet Hotel Hiroshima Ekimae or similar (1 night)
• Hiroshima – Peace Park and A-Bomb Dome
• Hiroshima – Peace Museum - JPY200

This morning we head for the beautiful island of Miyajima, just a short ferry ride across the Inland Sea. The island is home to the venerable Shinto shrine of Itsukushima, famous for its huge bright orange gate (torii) which is absolutely stunning when the tide is high. Maybe take a stroll through the lovely Momiji Park (known as Maple Valley), or consider a walk or the cable car up to the top of Mt Misen (keeping an eye out for the hungry deer that roam the island) for panoramic views of the expansive Inland Sea and its many islands.

If there’s time on your return to Hiroshima in the afternoon, you might like to visit five-storied Hiroshima Castle, which originally dates from the 1590s, though it was destroyed by the bomb and reconstructed in all its glory after the war. Or, in the season, you might like to watch an evening baseball match – one of Japan’s most popular sports and a fun experience shared with enthusiastic Japanese baseball fans and local families.

• Hiroshima - Miyajima Island
• Miyajima – Dishoin Temple - Free
• Miyajima - Itsukushima Shrine - JPY300
• Hiroshima – Hiroshima Castle - JPY370

We jump onboard the bullet train to Kyoto, arguably the most stunning city in Japan. On the way there, make a stop at Himeji Castle, Japan's most impressive samurai castle. The building, which has survived earthquakes and war since the mid-16th century, was restored to its full glory in 2015 and is now UNESCO listed. The moats, towers and walled alleyways were ingeniously designed to trick attackers. We explore the castle that was once home to over 10,000 samurai families and look out over the city far below. Continue to Kyoto on the bullet train (1 hour). The charms of Kyoto, the former imperial capital, are subtle and profound. While you're here, you'll see some of the finest temples, shrines, palaces and gardens in the country, with a nice mix of included activities and free time. In the afternoon visit Nishiki-Koji Market in the heart of Kyoto’s downtown area to see what goes into Kyoto’s famed Kyo-ryori (Kyoto cuisine). Then spend early evening wandering the Gion district with your leader, seeing if you can spot geiko (geisha) or maiko (apprentice geisha) dressed in elaborate kimonos and make-up on their way to events and functions.

• Karasuma Kyoto Hotel or similar (1 night)
• Himeji - Himeji Castle
• Kyoto - Nishiki-Koji Market
• Kyoto - Gion District walk

Kyoto was originally founded as Heian-kyo in 794 and enjoyed a golden age during the imperial court’s heyday up until 1185. The city’s current name literally means ‘Capital City’, even though the Emperor and the government now reside in Tokyo. Today we’ll head to Kyoto’s famed Fushimi Inari Shrine – known throughout the world as the ‘Path of the Red Gates.’ If we are feeling fit we’ll walk further than most visitors, allowing us to experience both the well-known part of the shrine as well as the quieter corners and stunning city views from the shrine’s ‘half-way point.’ After that, your leader will take you to another one of Kyoto’s UNESCO-listed temples or shrines (there’s 17 and counting!) which will give you an insight into Kyoto’s history as the seat of imperial power for over 1000 years and its equally long Buddhist heritage. In the afternoon you have time to do your own exploring – you might like to catch a maiko cultural performance, participate in a tea ceremony demonstration or do an obanzai (Kyoto-style) cooking class.

• Kyoto - Fushimi Inari Shrine
• Kyoto - Gion Corner cultural centre - JPY3150
• Kyoto - Cooking class - JPY6500
• Kyoto – Tea ceremony with maiko - JPY5000

Explore more of this delightful city. This morning you'll enjoy a boat cruise down the scenic Hozu River in the Arashiyama area in the hills west of Kyoto. Look along the banks for Japanese maples in autumn or plum or cherry blossoms at springtime. At the end of the ride you will visit Tenryu-ji Temple which is right near an incredible bamboo grove. This bamboo forest is one of the most photographed sights in the city, and you'll see why. It's like stepping into another dimension.

In your free time, you might like to consider taking the family on a fun rickshaw ride (two-wheeled wagons pulled by fit young men in traditional garb) around the Arashiyama area. Or you may like to pay a visit to the nearby Toei Kyoto Studio Park – a theme park used for the shooting of period dramas (jidaigeki films) set in the Edo period. You can soak up the atmosphere of feudal Japan and perhaps enjoy a ninja show or visit one of the studios used for filming. Back in central Kyoto, you could also experience a performance of traditional swordplay.

• Kyoto - Arashiyama sightseeing
• Kyoto - Tenryuji Temple
• Kyoto - Hozu River ride
• Kyoto – Samurai Kembu Theatre - JPY3000
• Kyoto – Toei Kyoto Studio Park - JPY2200
• Kyoto – Arashiyama rickshaw ride - JPY3000

Today is yours to enjoy Kyoto however you please. There are plenty of optional activities to choose from. Perhaps head out with the family and explore on a bike. This is definitely one of the best ways to navigate the city, and one of the most popular routes is following the delightful Kamo River from the northern outskirts of Kyoto down through the city’s heart, stopping for a bento box lunch along the way. Kyoto is regularly voted one of the best bicycle cities in Asia, and for good reason. The city is largely flat and the roads are well maintained. Or if cycling is not your thing, you could check out Kyoto’s Manga Museum or visit the Kyoto Railway Museum, which even houses one of Japan’s first bullet trains, or try your hand at making your own bowl of ramen. Alternatively, consider a complete kimono makeover and transform yourself into a maiko, samurai lord or ninja for the day!

• Kyoto - Kyoto Cycling Tour Urban Adventure - JPY6785
• Nara - Day trip from Kyoto - JPY3000
• Osaka - Universal Studios (one day pass) - JPY7400
• Kyoto - Maiko/Samurai makeover - JPY12000
• Kyoto – Kyoto Railway Museum - JPY1200
• Kyoto – Bike hire - JPY1000
• Kyoto – Ramen Factory Kyoto - JPY2500
• Kyoto – Kyoto Manga Museum - JPY800

Your family adventure comes to an end today. There are no further activities planned and check out is around 10 am.

11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners

Bullet Train, Train, Cable car, Taxi, Tram

Hotels (9 nights), Ryokan (2 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. Please note that these trips are for adults and children travelling together and there must be at least one child under 18 with you. 2. Minimum age for children on this trip is 5 years old. 3. A discount of 10% applies on this trip to children 17 years and under at time of travel. 4. A single supplement is bookable on this trip with exception of Day 4 & 5 (Hakone) and Days 6 & 7 (Hiroshima), subject to availability. 5. It is essential you pack light and compact for rail travel in Japan. Size restrictions for luggage on Shinkansen (bullet) trains apply. Luggage over 160–250 cm may require an additional USD 10 fee per train journey. Luggage over 251 cm will not be permitted on the Shinkansen trains at all. Please notify your tour leader at your welcome meeting if your luggage is over 160–250 cm so they can make the necessary arrangements! Failure to notify your tour leader of luggage over 160–250 cm will require the passenger to pay the oversize luggage fee. 6. Accommodation in Japan can be difficult to secure at short notice. If you are travelling in Japan before or after your trip, we recommend booking accommodation at least one month in advance of travel. For families wanting to book a triple room we can request these for all destinations except Tokyo and Kyoto, where triple rooms are not available. In Tokyo and Kyoto, we can request a twin share room plus a single room. 7. March to May and September to November are both high seasons for tourism in Japan. While the weather is good during this period (and March to May is great for viewing cherry blossoms), you will find major sites are very crowded with both Japanese and international tourists during these months. 8. We know the idea of travelling overseas with picky eaters, particularly kids, can be daunting. However, most of our families find the diversity of Japanese food surprising. Trying different foods is great fun and an opportunity to understand a little about Japanese culture. Some of the different meals you can enjoy include sushi, soba noodles, ramen noodles, monjaki and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), takoyaki (ball-shaped fried snack – a bit like the Japanese equivalent of fish fingers) and yakitori (skewered chicken). There are also great treats to try including green Kea kit Kats and ice-creams, pounded-rice desserts such as mochi and dango and sweet red bean in a variety of forms. Yum! For anyone in search of food for a picnic the majority of department stores have food halls (depachika) with an eyepopping selection of different types of food. Also, convenience stores (combini) are around nearly every corner and have snacks to tempt the fussiest eater. If in doubt and needing a little taste from home, the Japanese chain Moss Burgers have great hamburgers and you can find western options like pasta, pizza and great bakeries in the major cities. If you have any concerns, chat to your leader at the start of the tour. 9. Some of our families are surprised by the traditional Japanese breakfast foods and the western variations that our accommodation provides. Rice or noodles with fish or meat are common breakfast foods in Japan. Typical western foods available generally include toast, eggs, tea and coffee and sometimes cereals. 10. We are not able to book airport shuttle service for Japan now. Japan has an extensive and efficient public transport system and the joining and finishing point instructions are listed in the Essential Trip Information.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Nara Sika deers are sacred, and protected as National Treasures.

©nicholashan/123RF

Worldwide famous Shibuya crossing, Tokyo

©Wasin Pummarin/123RF

The view of Hakone jinja Torii in the lake at Hakone, a must-see close to Mount Fuji in Japan

©Waraporn Meengoen/123RF

Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner in your ryokan

©Ichinoyu Shinkan

Walk on the streets close to Yasaka pagoda, in Gion, Kyoto old town

©Pitinan/123RF

Enjoy a family moment in one of the traditional Japan Experience houses

©JapanExperience

Hiroshima castle, famous for cherry blossom

©Sean Pavone/123RF

Kenroku-en garden, one of the 3 most beautiful in Japan : a must-see in Kanazawa

©amstk/123RF

Shirakawago Unesco world heritage village in Japanese Alps

©vichie81/123RF

• Travel insurance
• Japan Experience

Japan family tour

• Duration : 14 days
• Locations : Tokyo, Hakone Mt Fuji, Kyoto, Kanazawa, Tokyo
• Add to favorites

Go on a "cheap" family trip to Japan!

This 2 week tour takes you to Tokyo , Mount Fuji , Kyoto and Nara , with the deer park that will delight parents and children alike. Then head to Tokyo via Kanazawa , the city of the samurai.

This tour includes accommodation in Japan Experience houses and ryokan, transportation , a special family tour in Tokyo and an evening tour in Kyoto.

2 week itinerary 

• Departure city/airport : Tokyo  (Narita :  NRT  or Haneda :  HND )
• Tokyo (5 nights)
• Hakone Mount-Fuji (1 night)
• Kyoto (4 nights including 1 day in  Nara or  Hiroshima )
• Kanazawa (2 nights)
• Tokyo (1 night)
• End Return airport :  Tokyo  (Narita :  NRT  or Haneda :  HND )

Please find below the itinerary details.

Tour length : 13 nights / 14days (+ 1 day at the beginning if you leave from Europe)

Indeed, the tour departure and end dates presented on this page relate to your stay in Japan. On departure, you will have to leave Europe on the day before. The return flight is on the same day due to the time difference.

• Departure from Europe : January 1st
• Arrival Tokyo  (date to be selected in the tour calendar while booking ) : January 2nd
• Return flight from Kansai international airport : January 15th

Why this trip to Japan ?

• A tour in Japan specially designed for families , with appropriate accommodation and activities!
• Welcomed at the airport  by our team, you will be taken to your hotel in Tokyo by shuttle bus
• Afterwards, a guide will accompany you for a day with a special family-oriented programme!
• Head to the edge of  Mount Fuji  for an unforgettable dinner and overnight stay in a ryokan
• Travel by Shinkansen to Kyoto : a  guided tour  of the traditional geisha quarter awaits you 
• In Kyoto and Kanazawa, stay in Japan Experience houses, more spacious than a hotel room!
• From Kyoto, you can explore the surrounding area with your transport passes : Nara, Hiroshima...
• Recommendations available in your  travel diary
• Offer : enjoy unlimited internet access thanks to the pocket Wi-Fi
• If necessary, contact our English-speaking  assistance 24/7
• A number of guided days or other optional  activities  are available
• Benefit from the expertise of  Japan Experience , European leading travel agency in Japan.

Your trip in detail

Day 1 : wake up in tokyo 東京.

Arrival in Japan

©Vasin Leenanuruksa / 123RF

Arrival at Tokyo airport (Narita or Haneda). Welcome to Japan! Yokoso 日本へようこそ！

Welcomed out of customs by our airport assistant, who will give you all your travel documents and Pocket WiFi. Unaccompanied transfer from the airport to Tokyo (see details).

This transfer is done in a shared shuttle or bus, with other guests departing for the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers depart between 1.5 and 3 hours after your scheduled flight arrival and stops can be made before your hotel.

If you would like a private, non-stop transfer directly after the actual arrival of your flight, feel free to take the "Private Taxi from the Airport" option.

Check-in at Hotel  OMO3 Tokyo Akasaka by Hoshino Resorts or same category hotel 3*  (rooms available from 3:00pm).

Day 2 : First steps in the capital

Tokyo tower by night

The metro pass included in your package will allow you to easily travel around the capital!

What is there to do in Tokyo on the first day?

We advise you to slowly start visiting Tokyo from its western districts: - Harajuku : the avant-garde district - Meiji Jingû, the imperial shrine - Takeshita-Dori: the most famous street in Japan - Omotesando: Tokyo's Champs-Élysées - Shibuya and its unmistakable "crossroads"

One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can also accompany you to visit the classic sights of Tokyo (optional, from 9:00 to 17:00).

Day 3 : Now for some activity...

Lovely Toshogu shrine in Ueno park, Tokyo

©Juan Broullon/Unsplash

This day will be spent on a guided tour of Tokyo, specially designed for families. Your English-speaking guide will pick you up at your hotel at 9am to begin the full-day tour. From Ueno, Odaiba, Shibuya, or even Ginza, Tokyo is full of attractions that will please the young and the very young.

Day 4 : The big loop

Hamarikyu gardens : One of Tokyo must see

©tupungato/123RF

For this third day of visiting Tokyo, we recommend the following "loop".

Start from Tokyo Central Station, with its original architecture, then go to visit: - Ginza, Tokyo's chic district - Tsukiji, the small outdoor food market - Hamarikyu, the Japanese garden between Tokyo's buildings - Asakusa, a traditional district and place of pilgrimage, accessible by a cruise on the Sumida River - Sensô-ji Buddhist temple, one of the oldest in the city - Tokyo Sky Tree  reaching a height of 643m, and its panoramic view of Tokyo at sunset 

Enjoy a cruise on the Sumida River between Hamarikyu and Asakusa.

Day 5 : Back to the future

Akihabara, Tokyo's electric district

©Clément Gougeon

Travel back in time for this 4th day: - Yanaka, the old Tokyo - Ueno , the place of resistance of the last Samurai, and its park full of cherry trees - Akihabara, the electronic and manga district - Odaiba, the island of futuristic entertainment in Tokyo Bay

As an option, treat yourself to a day at Disneyland Tokyo or the Hello Kitty Park. 

Day 6 : On the way to visit the emblem of Japan: Mount Fuji!

Head to Hakone  (1.5 hour journey from Shinjuku station, 1 change, included in your package).

You will be charmed by the magnificent scenery of this spa resort,  Lake Ashi and its view of Mount Fuji (in good weather!). Not forgetting the volcanic site of Owakudani, accessible by cable car. If you wish to be accompanied for this day, one of our English-speaking guides will reveal all the secrets of the Mount Fuji region.

Check-in at your  ryokan . At night at the ryokan, you will be treated to a tasty traditional Japanese dinner before retiring to your tatami room.

Day 7 : The former capital

Night falling on Gion and Yasaka pagoda - Kyoto

Sorasak Unsplash

Traditional Japanese breakfast at the ryokan.

In 2h30, reach Kyoto (by Shinkansen, included in your package).

From noon onwards, you can settle into your traditional Japan Experience house. Just like in Tokyo, a travel angel will welcome you.

You have 4 days to visit Kyoto. Start in the afternoon in the historic Gion district near your accommodation : - Kiyomizu-Dera, the great water temple - The historical streets of Sannen-zaka & Ninnen-zaka - Kodai-ji, the maple and bamboo temple of Kyoto

Finish off seeing the sunset in Gion. Meet your guide at 19:00 to start your late stroll around Gion , Kyoto's historic district.

More details on the exact time and location in your travel diary. At the end of this 1 hour 30 walk, your guide will be able to advise you on the best places to eat out! Please note that it is strictly forbidden to take photographs in the historic district of Gion.

Day 8 : Gold and Silver Treasures

Golden Pavilion Kinkaku-ji : a must-see in Kyoto ancient capital

©siraphol/123RF

We recommend the following itinerary for this second day's visit to Kyoto: - Ryoan-ji Zen Garden - The Kinkaku-ji ( Golden Pavilion ) - Ginkaku-ji ( Silver Pavilion ) - The bewitching path of philosophy - The Nanzen-ji temple

One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can accompany you on a tour of these symbolic sites (optional, from 9:00 to 17:00).

Day 9 : Now for some activity...

Temple in Kyoto with amazing autumn foliage

©SHUICHI SEGAWA/123RF

This is your last full day to visit Kyoto, so make the most of our many optional activities: - Want to enjoy nature? Check out our cycling activities along the Kamogawa River or hiking in the Takao Gorge! - Prefer Japanese arts? Tea ceremonies, meditation activities or private visits to secret gardens will seduce you. - Looking for Japanese countryside? Let yourself be tempted by a trip to Ohara, or try our flagship activity: on the Tea Road!!

If you wish to visit at your own pace, continue exploring Kyoto's 2000 unique temples, shrines and gardens!

You can also head to Hiroshima (2 hours, direct journey by Shinkansen high-speed train, included in your package), to visit the park and peace memorial.

Day 10 : Between temples and deer

For your last day in Kyoto and its surroundings, we recommend taking the 50 minute journey to Nara, which is included in your package.

Visit to Nara , the first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century. Discover: - The Shinto shrine Kasuga Taisha and its thousands of lanterns - The Todaiji, its great bronze Buddha and the imposing Nan-Daimon gate - Kofukuji temple and its beautiful pagoda

Return to Kyoto and stop for sunset at Fushimi Inari, the huge 10,000 torii sanctuary in Kyoto. If you wish to be accompanied on this day, one of our English-speaking guides will unveil all the secrets of Japan's first capital (optional, return trip from Kyoto).

Final night in your traditional Kyoto house.

Day 11 : Head for the Sea of Japan!

Departure by train to Kanazawa in the morning (2 hours 10, direct train, included in your package).

From noon onwards, you can settle into your traditional Japan Experience house! Once again, you will meet a travel angel Japan Experience with whom you can discuss your stay.

Explore Kanazawa, between the North Sea and the Japanese Alps: - Kenroku-en, the beautiful Japanese garden of Kanazawa - The contemporary art museum and its outdoor gallery - Omicho, the sea of Japan fish market - The Nomura house, residence of the samurai and its picturesque old quarter

Night in your traditional Kanazawa house.

Day 12 : Rural & Mountain

Traditional geisha quarter with old wooden houses in Kanazawa, Japan

©passionphotography/123RF

For this day several options are available to you: - Continue visiting Kanazawa (optional, English-speaking guide for one day). - Discover the Noto Peninsula's Japanese countryside with one of our guides (optional). - Visit to Shirakawago, a typical village in the Japanese Alps , listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1h15 minutes by bus, tickets optional).

Day 13 : Return to Tokyo

Maneki-neko in Tokyo

Departure to Tokyo in the morning (2 hours 30) by Shinkansen high-speed train, included in your package.

Check into your OMO3 Tokyo Akasaka by Hoshino Resorts hotel or same category hotel.

Make the most of this last day to do your last bits of shopping and start packing your bags...

Day 14 : Sayonara, and see you next time!

Sayonara - bye bye Japan !

©Sezer özger/123RF

Transfer to Haneda or Narita airport (included but not accompanied).

This transfer is by shuttle or shared bus, with other customers departing from the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers arrive between 3 hours and 1.5 hours before the actual departure of your flight, and stops can be made before you arrive at the airport.

If you prefer a private transfer at a time of your choice, direct to the airport and with no intermediate stops, select the "Private taxi to the airport" option.

Return flight to Europe, North America, Australia.

Do not hesitate to extend your trip by one or more days to Tokyo, or elsewhere… We will be able to advise you!

Included in your self-guided tour

Accommodation

- 5  night in a 3* hotel  in the heart of Tokyo, close to public transport

- 1  night in a 3* ryokan  in Hakone Mount Fuji, traditional half-board

- 4 nights in a  traditional Kyoto house

- 2 nights in a  traditional Kanazawa house

- 1  night in a 3* hotel  in the heart of Tokyo, close to public transport

The basic rate includes a twin room for two people.

-  Airport transfers  

- Prepaid public  transport card

-  Japan Rail Pass  for 7 days

- Tokyo Metro Pass for 3 days

-  Hakone Free Pass  for 2 days

Experiences and meals

-  Airport welcome

-  Welcome to Tokyo, Kyoto  and Kanazawa by a travel angel

-  Discounts  at many Hakone tourist sites

-  Traditional dinner and breakfast  in the ryokan at Hakone

- Special family day tour of Tokyo

- Guided night  tour of Gion 

Additional services

- Unlimited  Wi-Fi  access with pocket Wi-Fi

- Complete e- travel diary  sent before your departure

- 24/7 telephone  assistance  in English

Not included in the price of your trip

- Flights Europe <> Japan

- Optional insurance policies

- Personal expenses including meals (breakfast optional)

- Public transport when your transport cards have run out (see details)

- Anything not included in the "included in your tour" section

More about your trip

Your tour :

• The prices displayed on this page may vary according to the exchange rate of the Japanese ¥.
• Unfortunately, this tour is not accessible to people with reduced mobility.
• Pets are not allowed.
• Children and babies accepted. From 3 to 11 years old a child rate is offered. In each accommodation, a standard adult bed will be offered to them, and a standard seat will be allocated to them in transport. From 0 to 2 years old inclusive, a "baby" rate is offered. This price corresponds to the allocation of a cot in the majority of the accommodation of the chosen circuit. However, we cannot guarantee a baby cot in each accommodation.
• This programme is subject to change due to circumstances such as weather conditions or any other case of force majeure. Please note that due to the current circumstances, any information mentioned is subject to change or modification.
• Travel diary by email before departure, and other electronic documents 
• Paper documents (airport transfer ticket, transportation card, Japan Rail Pass voucher) and Pocket WiFi upon arrival at the airport by our airport assistant.
• As this tour is designed for families (at least one adult with at least one child/teenager), it is not possible for individual people to book this tour. We recommend the "Solo Japan" tour or any other tour accessible to solo travellers.
• Note : In very rare cases, mostly in very high season, steps might be reversed. You will be informed in your mini travel-guide. Thanks for your kind understanding.

Your accommodation :

• Some hotels may ask you to pay a tourist tax on arrival. This depends on the city and even the hotel, as some do not include it in the booking price. Normally, it is 200¥/night/person (about £1.37/1.93$) but can be slightly higher in 4* hotels. It must be paid in cash at the hotel reception. For traditional Japan Experience accommodations, it is included in the initial tour price.
• Room size: in Japan, a densely populated country where everything is compact, 3-star luxury hotels are of very good quality but the rooms are often quite narrow (12 to 20m2/129 sq ft to 215 sq ft) depending on the hotel. Please note the size of the single room, between 10 and 16m2 (107sq ft and 172 fq ft). For more comfort, you can choose our luxury 4* accommodation upgrade option. 
• All of them have private dining rooms, kitchens and bathrooms, in addition to the bedrooms. A washing machine and Wi-Fi are also available within the accommodation. In all houses, bed linen and towels are provided, and the price includes travel angel service, tourist tax and cleaning at the end of the stay.
• Traditional house in Kyoto : Most of them are either located in the historical district of Gion or on the edge of the Path of Philosophy and the Silver Temple.
• Japan Experience Traditional House in Kanazawa: located in the city centre.
• In the ryokan in Hakone, guests sleep on comfortable futons placed on the tatami mat. The room has a private sink and toilet. As is customary in Japanese ryokan, the onsen bathroom is shared (not mixed) unless you take the "private bathroom in the room" option. OPTIONAL: Enjoy a private Japanese bathroom (traditional or modern onsen) in your room. This option is recommended for mixed couples, families, people who are modest or have visible tattoos. The 4* ryokan (see 4* option) have comfortable futons raised on either western beds in a traditional tatami room. The bathrooms and toilets of the 4* ryokans are private. In this traditional accommodation, people under the same reservation are grouped together in spacious rooms that can accommodate up to 5 people.
• Hotel in Tokyo : 
• Room size: in Japan, a densely populated country where everything is compact, 3-star luxury hotels are of very good quality but the rooms are often quite narrow (12 to 20m2) depending on the hotel. Please note the size of the single room, between 10 and 16m2. For more comfort, you can choose our luxury 4* accommodation upgrade option.
• Double room: Rooms for two people in western hotels have 2 single beds (twin rooms) by default, which can usually be joined together. As an option, you can select a double room instead of a twin if you prefer a double bed.
• Single room: People travelling alone and wishing to book a single room must pay a supplement at the time of booking. The single room supplement is compulsory for orders with an odd number of participants. Please note that if you request more than two people in a single room, the single room supplement will be applied to all accommodation except for the ryokans (3 and 4*). In fact, as this is traditional accommodation, people with the same reservation are grouped together in spacious rooms for up to 5 people.
• 3-person room: If there are 3, 5 or more of you and you do not select the single supplement, a triple room will be allocated to you.
• In the case of a group order (> 5 people), it is possible, depending on hotel availability, that not all members of the group will be accommodated in the same hotel. Nevertheless, we aim to keep you close. 
• Names of the hotels : The names given on the site are for information only. In the event of unavailability, an establishment of equivalent standing will be scheduled. Hotels, corresponding to local standards, are given as an indication and may be changed on site for hotels of a similar category.

Your transport :

• Flights are not included in this tour. Do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to include flights in your order: Flights in economy class with stopovers or direct flights, eco-premium or business air upgrades, provincial departures or abroad: we will be able to advise you.
• The tour departure and end dates presented on this page relate to your stay in Japan. You will arrive in Japan via Tokyo (Narita or Haneda airports) and will also leave from Tokyo. You will have to leave Europe the day before and land at 6:30pm at the latest to make the most of the airport services of your tour (welcome and transfer to Tokyo). The return flight is on the same day due to the time difference, with a departure time of 9am at the earliest. Please do not hesitate to consult us for any uncertainty or need for precision in the choice of international flights.
• Airport Transfers: The shared limousine bus leaves from the airport and stops either in front of your hotel or at a stop within 1-15 minutes walk from your hotel. Our airport assistant in Tokyo will drive you to the platform to pick up the airport transfer. The transfer to the hotel is unassisted. If you wish to be accompanied from the airport to your hotel reception, please choose the option "Accompanied Airport Transfer". This transfer is done in a shared shuttle or bus, with other clients leaving for the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers leave between 1.5 and 3 hours after your flight's scheduled arrival and stops can be made before your hotel. If you would like a private, non-stop transfer directly after the actual arrival of your flight, feel free to take the "Private Taxi from the Airport" option. Please note: due to the many changes in flight schedules by the airlines, if the airline notifies you of a change in arrival time less than 72 hours before your departure, and if it exceeds 45 minutes, we cannot guarantee your airport shuttle. You will then have to take a taxi at your own expense, requesting a refund from your airline for abusive schedule changes. The same applies to your return journey: 72 hours before your return flight, we cannot change the shuttle schedule. Similarly, you will have to take a taxi booked with the hotel, at your own expense, with reimbursement procedures with the airline company being the only solution. Japan Experience is not responsible for last minute schedule changes.
• Included in your tour is a pre-charged transport prepayment card of ¥ 1,500 (around £10.30 / 14.54$) (suica or Pasmo brand); a 7-day Japan Rail Pass, a Tokyo Metro Pass   for 3 days and a Hakone Free Pass for 2 days. These 4 cards should cover a large part of your trips during the stay. Upon expiry of the 1,500¥ Transport Prepayment Card, or if the line you are travelling on is not covered by your Japan Rail Pass, any travel will be at your own expense by recharging your pre-paid transport card (at vending machines in all stations and metro stations). A metro ticket in Tokyo costs around €2, depending on the length of the journey).
• Travel by metro and bus in the cities (payable by pre-paid transport card, included in your package)
• Transfers from the train station to the hotels (by foot, bus, metro or taxi)
• Travel on private train lines (other than JR)
• Travel on Nozomi and Mizuho high-speed trains (shinkansen)
• Trips made outside the validity period of the Japan Rail Pass
• Japan Rail Pass: It is not necessary to possess a Japan Rail Pass which covers your entire stay. This is only cost-effective if it is used for long journeys between the different stages of your stay (especially in shinkansen) which are very expensive. In large cities like Tokyo, only about ⅓ of public transport is covered by the Japan Rail Pass and getting around is relatively cheap (Tokyo metro tickets: £1.71 / 2.42$; Kyoto daily bus card: £4.28 / 5.97$). Thus, providing you with a Japan Rail Pass for more than 7 days (14 or 21) would not be cost-effective and, on the contrary, would significantly increase the cost of your trip.
• If a person taking part in the tour is a Japanese national and a resident of Japan, or a foreigner with tax residence in Japan (including a student), then that person is not eligible for the Japan Rail Pass. Please contact us to get the price of the tour without a Japan Rail Pass. They will have to buy the train tickets for the tour directly in Japan. The Kansai Thru Pass is also subject to the same nationality/residency requirements. This is not the case for the Hakone Free pass. If this person is a Japanese citizen but not a resident of Japan, then he/she can benefit from the Japan Rail Pass under certain conditions (see  https://www.japan-experience.com/frequently-asked-questions ).

Your activities :

• Airport reception is in English. Your airport assistant will be waiting for you at the customs exit holding a sign with the name of the reservation. They will give you your travel documents and take you to your airport transfer. They will not accompany you to Tokyo (this is possible, but optional).
• An English speaking Travel Angel who is a specialist in Japan will be there to welcome you to your traditional houses. They will give you the keys, explain how the house and its facilities work, give you a tour of the area (tourist sites, supermarkets, bike rental...) and answer all your questions. They will be available throughout your stay in case of any problems or questions.
• The guided tour of Gion takes place in groups of 12 people maximum, from 6pm to 7:30/8:00pm. In English. More details on the meeting place in your travel journal. Dinner is not planned but your guide will be able to give you their best spots.
• Tokyo Family Tour: Your guide will pick you up at your flat at 9am, and the day will last until 5pm. Details in your travel diary.

Your meals :

• Traditional Japanese dinner and Japanese breakfast (mostly savoury) are included in your Hakone tour. Do not hesitate to indicate any dietary requirements you may have, we will pass them on to the ryokan so that they can take them into account when planning the meals. If the ryokan does not take any of these dietary requirements into account, we cannot be held responsible and no compensation will be issued.
• Breakfasts which are not included in your package can be added at the reception when you arrive at the hotel. However, you will find many cafés near your hotel serving copious breakfasts, often tastier than those in the hotels, which sometimes have tight schedules and are predominantly savoury. However, if you would like to add breakfast to your offer when you make your reservation, you can select it as an option.
• The traditional Japan Experience houses are equipped for cooking and are located close to supermarkets and markets

Your additional services:

• A pocket wifi is included in your tour. It allows unlimited high-speed internet access. Your Pocket WiFi will be given to you at the airport of arrival.
• It comes with a small booklet to operate your device (don't panic: simple operation) and a prepaid envelope to return your device at the end of your stay. Your pocket wifi will work naturally until the last day of your trip to Japan.
• A maximum of 5 devices can be connected to a pocket wifi (phone, tablet, computer).
• A single pocket wifi is provided for a circuit order of 1 to 5 people. For an order of 6 people or more, a second pocket wifi will be added automatically and at no extra cost to your reservation.

When you buy, Japan Experience offers you 2 types of protection:

Japan Experience Flex :  Cancellation insurance before departure under conditions.

Japan Experience Protect : Pre-departure cancellation insurance under conditions and on-site assistance under conditions. 

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa? Do I need vaccinations?

As of October 11, 2022, Japan will open its borders to all Europeans (including the European Union, the United Kingdom and Switzerland) and North Americans (Canada and the United States) without requiring a visa.

Only non-triply vaccinated travelers need a negative PCR test performed within 72 hours prior to departure.

Do I still need a visa to travel to Japan as a tourist?

No, no visa is required for blue countries including all European countries (European Union, United Kingdom and Switzerland included) and North American countries (Canada and United States). List of blue countries: https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/short/novisa.html . If you have another nationality, please contact the Japanese embassy in your country of residence to obtain this visa.

Do I still need a PCR or antigen test to go to Japan?

No, if you are triple vaccinated with the vaccines approved by Japan (Pfizer, Moderna, ...exhaustive list here : https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/page24e_000317.html ) there is no need for any test.

I do not have 3 doses of vaccine or I am not vaccinated against COVID, can I enter Japan?

Proof of Covid vaccines is no longer required for travelers from "blue" countries. Therefore, unvaccinated travelers can enter Japan if they live in blue countries. But a negative PCR test is required at embarkation for travelers who are not vaccinated 3 times.

Is there still a quarantine upon arrival in Japan?

Quarantine and testing on arrival have been eliminated for travelers from blue countries.

Is insurance mandatory?

No, but it is recommended. Japan Experience, as an option of its tours, provides appropriate travel insurance solutions.

What anti-covid measures are still in place in Japan?

The mask must be worn indoors (except in exceptional cases) and in transportation.

What applications should I download before entering Japan?

For tracking the evolution of the coronavirus epidemic, the Japanese government recommends downloading several applications:

MySOS, the health and location tracking app (it will be used to confirm your location, health status and accommodation).

COCOA, the COVID-19 contact confirmation app (this will be used to notify you of possible contact with a COVID-19 positive person).

For more information, please visit: https://www.hco.mhlw.go.jp/manual/pdf-en/summary.pdf 

How do I book a tour?

It's very simple and easy, just book directly online through our website:

(1) Choose the tour of your choice, your departure date and indicate the number of participants. Several options are available to you. (2) Pay a deposit of 35% of the total amount* online and confirm your reservation. (3) You will then receive an e-mail confirming the conditions of your registration. (4) Book your flight ticket, either with Japan Experience or by yourself (taking into account the necessary schedules for your tour) (5) One month before departure, settle the balance of your booking.

For more information on the tours or to make a reservation, please contact our advisors on +33 (0)1 42 61 60 83 or at [email protected] , or come and visit us at our agency in Paris.

* travel insurance and options included

How long should a trip to Japan last?

For a first trip to Japan, a period of 2 weeks is optimal, with at least 3 days in Tokyo and 3 days in Kyoto and its region. Don't forget to take some time at the beginning of the trip to get used to the time difference.

What are the essentials for a first trip to Japan?

The must-see places for a first trip to Japan are:

• Tokyo, the megalopolis with a thousand sides to it
• Kyoto, the capital of sophistication and Nara, with its temples and deer
• Hiroshima, between memory and modern times, and its sacred island Miyajima
• Mount Fuji, Japan's most famous mountain
• The Japanese Alps: Takayama, Matsumoto, Shirakawa-go
• Kanazawa, both modern and traditional, on the Sea of Japan

And many other unforgettable places to discover in our tours.

Where should you start your tour in Japan? Where should you finish?

Most Japan Experience tours begin in Tokyo. This is because it is the gateway to both modern and traditional Japan. Tokyo allows a traveller to enter Japan step by step, whilst getting used to the time difference. Tokyo also has Japan's top two airports in terms of traffic.

A few of our tours end in the Kansai region (Kyoto or Osaka). The return flight then goes from from Kansai International Airport (KIX), the 3rd largest airport in Japan, offering many possibilities for return flights to Europe without any real extra cost compared to a return flight from Tokyo. On these tours, the Japan Rail Pass does not cover the whole tour, allowing you to reduce the total price of the tour. And this without losing any transport possibilities as the Japan Rail Pass is of little use in Kansai.

However, tours are available from Tokyo and sometimes other cities in Japan.

Is it safe to travel in Japan? What about solo travellers and children?

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, ranked in the top 10 by the Global Peace Index. Therefore travelling alone is safe. Women and girls can travel alone without fear of being harassed or solicited in public places. The same goes for children, who can be seen going to school alone in the metro from the age of 7. This can give you an idea of the country's level of safety. Last but not least, Japan is a haven for children: the safety, the amusement parks, the friendly attitude of the population.

Our commitments as Japan Experience, Europe No. 1 travel in Japan

• The guarantee of the  first tour operator  specialised exclusively in Japan for 40 years
• A wide range of products to let you  Experience Japan from the inside
• Competitive prices  thanks to a single team in UK, Europe, USA and Japan, with no intermediaries
• Assistance  available in Japan throughout your trip
• A  specialised team  is available 7 days a week by phone or email
• The best advice thanks to the  3,500 articles  available on our website

Optional services

Our other self-guided tours.

Discover other Self-Guided tours like « Japan family tour »

City break - Osaka tour Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Duration : 8 days
• Locations : Osaka
• Included : Airport Transfers, 3* Hotels, Non-flight transportation, Guided activity, Travel diary, Pocket wifi, Assistance

Tokyo, Mount Fuji & Kyoto Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Duration : 10 days
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Japanese Immersion Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Duration : 13 days
• Locations : Tokyo, Hakone Mt Fuji, Hiroshima, Osaka, Koyasan, Kyoto
• Included : Airport Transfers, 3* Hotels & Ryokan, Non-flight transportation, Guided activities, Travel diary, Pocket wifi, Assistance

Romantic tour in Japan Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Locations : Tokyo, Hakone Mt Fuji, Okayama, Miyajima, Kyoto
• Included : Airport Transfers, 3* Hotels & Ryokan, Japan Experience house, Non-flight transportation, Guided activities, Travel diary, Pocket wifi, Assistance

Tohoku: Traditional Japan Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Duration : 18 days
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Slow Travel Japan Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Duration : 21 days
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Our activities in Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Nara, Kanazawa

Noh, Ancient Japanese Theatre Activities in Tokyo

• Duration : 2 hour
• Location : Tokyo

Helicopter flight over Tokyo Activities in Tokyo

• Duration : 18 minute

Making Washi, the Japanese paper Activities in Tokyo

• Duration : 1 hour

Climbing Mount Fuji Fujiyoshida

• Duration : 2 day

Fushimi Inari, the mountain sanctuary Activities in Kyoto

• Duration : 3 hour
• Location : Kyoto

Tokyo Discovery, two days Activities in Tokyo

• Duration : 16 hour
• Location : Chiyoda City

Please select your country on the list below:

• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Other countries

[email protected]             +44 (0)208 064 2771

FAMILY TOURS

JAPAN FAMILY HOLIDAY

Our Japan Family Holidays package consists of a superb 12 night itinerary which includes visits to Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima and the nearby lovely Island of Miyajima.

12 nights (SELF-GUIDED)

Tokyo, Kyoto, Miyajima & Hiroshima

From £7,295.00 per family (2 adults & 2 children*)

ESSENTIAL JAPAN

Our Essential Japan Tour is a 13 night 'Golden Itinerary' which takes in the beautiful Japan Alps, the castle town of Matsumoto as well at Mt Fuji (and the nearby resort of Hakone), Kyoto and Tokyo.

13 nights (SELF-GUIDED)

Tokyo, Kyoto, Takayama, Hakone & Matsumoto

From £1,945.00 per person

JAPAN MANGA TOUR MARCH 2024

The holiday of a lifetime for fans of manga, anime and all aspects of Japanese pop culture.

7 - 15 March 2024  (GUIDED TOUR)

From £2,195.00 per person

CLASSIC JAPAN TOUR AT CHERRY BLOSSOM TIME 2024

This unforgettable tour marks the coming of spring and with it, new life, epitomised by Japan's spectacular cherry blossom season.

22 March - 3 April 2024  (GUIDED TOUR)

Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, Miyajima,  & Osaka

£6,395.00 per person

JAPAN EXPRESS

Our Japan Express itinerary is a classic 8 night self-guided itinerary which includes visits to Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Miyajima Island.

8 nights  (SELF-GUIDED)

From £1,599.00 per person

OKINAWA EXTENSION

Only becoming a part of Japan in the 17th Century, the islands of Okinawa were once a group of fiercely independent kingdoms. 

5 nights  (SELF-GUIDED)

Naha, Ishigaki Island, Taketomi Island & Iriomote Island

From £695.00 per person

HIGHLIGHTS OF HOKKAIDO

Once the frontier of Japan, the spirit of pioneering still remains in Hokkaido and its people.

13 nights  (SELF-GUIDED)

Tokyo, Hakodate, Lake Toya, Muroran, Sapporo, Otaru, Furano & Biei

From £2,125.00 per person

SHIKOKU REVEALED

Experience the rich culture, history and nature on offer in Shikoku with this itinerary, designed for those who want to delve deeper into this fascinating country.

12 nights  (SELF-GUIDED)

Osaka, Tokushima, Kamikatsu, Iya Valley, Matsuyama, Kotohira, Takamatsu

From £1,625.00 per person

JAPAN SUMMER MANGA 2024

This is the summer holiday of a lifetime for fans of manga, anime and all aspects of Japanese pop culture. 

August 2024 Dates TBC  (GUIDED TOUR)

TOKYO GAME SHOW 2024

This incredible tour is designed for gamers and gadget lovers featuring a visit to the fantastic Tokyo Game Show.

September 2024 Dates TBC  (SEMI-GUIDED TOUR)

CLASSIC JAPAN  TOUR IN SEPTEMBER 

Experience the ancient temples, exquisite landscape and highlights of Japan with our Classic Tour of Japan.

TBC  (GUIDED TOUR)

Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima/Miyajima, Hakone, Tokyo

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING ELSE?

Japan Journeys offer various types of trip. Select a different option below.

LUXURY TOURS

Manga / anime/ gaming tours, outdoor tours, special interest/ cultural tours, solo travellers, regional tours, spring & summer tours, autumn & winter tours.

• WhatsApp +1 (213) 493‑8958
• +44 (0)208 064 1907
• +1 617 334 7755
• [email protected]

12-day Japan Family Adventure

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Or continue as guest, adding item to wishlist requires an account, itinerary & map, 12 days tokyo to kyoto, 12 day japan family tour, our japan family tour takes you to the heart of this fascinating country. packed full of cultural experiences, natural wonder, and fascinating cities, this tour unlocks the mysteries of japan. jump right in and discover the magic of tokyo, hakone, kyoto, hiroshima and osaka..

Experience magnificent views of Mount Fuji, unearth the history of Hiroshima, learn how to make sushi, discover more about anime, master the art of calligraphy, and watch traditional Japanese performances by geisha, comedians, and dancers – amongst a whole wealth of other activities. To give you and your family the best travel experience, we make sure that there’s something for everyone.

Burning with questions? Contact us directly!

Can’t see a departure date that suits your travel plans? We can also run this tour privately! Pay a little bit extra to experience the tour with just your family and our brilliant Adventure Leaders!

CHINESE NEW YEAR

March 2020 from £459 last few places.

APRIL – JUNE 2020 FROM £509

What's included

Accommodation.

 3-star hotels & a traditional Ryokan (family rooms) Read more

Adventure Leader

Bilingual Adventure Leaders for 6 days

Local transport

For the duration of the trip, including 7-day JR Pass (Day 6 to Day 12)

9 activities included Optional activities are available. Read more

Day 1: Arrival

Arrive in Tokyo and make your own way to your hotel – it’s time to get a good night’s rest before the trip begins…

Day 2: Tokyo

Kick off the day in the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen Park. Take in the cityscape from the top of Tokyo Metropolitan and then learn about Buddhism at Sensoji Temple. Learn About Tokyo

Day 3: Tokyo

Walk across the Shibuya Crossing and experience the intricate dynamics between tradition and contemporary culture in the fashionable district of Harajuku.  Learn About Tokyo

Day 4: Tokyo

Indulge in a fresh sushi breakfast at Tsukiji Fish Market before you try your hand at sushi making. Later, head to Japan's 'Electric Town', Akihabara. Learn About Tokyo

Day 5: Hakone

Hop on the train to Hakone and stay the night in a traditional Ryokan. Take the afternoon to relax at an onsen and grab a glimpse of Mount Fuji from the Hakone Ropeway.

Day 6: Hiroshima

Hop on the bullet train to Hiroshima. Explore the city in the evening and treat your taste buds to the city’s infamous dish, okonomiyaki. Learn about Hiroshima.

Day 7: Hiroshima

Learn about Hiroshima’s tragic past and its pacifist mission at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. Take a ferry to the Itsukushima shrine, built on stilts above lapping water before ascending the ropeway for marvellous vistas.

Day 8: Kyoto

Meditate in the Daisen-in Temple with a Buddhist Zen monk. Explore the Golden Pavilion at Kinkaku-Ji temple before visiting Gion Corner, where you can watch a traditional Japanese performance. Learn about Kyoto .

Day 9: Kyoto

Start the day with incredible views over Kyoto from Kiyomizu Dera Temple. Explore the district of Arashiyama, where you’ll find a lush Bamboo forest, temples and a mischievous monkey park!

Day 10: Kyoto

Enjoy a day full of Japanese culture as you try your hand at calligraphy and dress up in traditional kimonos. Learn about the art of manga at the Manga Museum, before exploring the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine.

Day 11: Osaka

Take a day tour to Nara or Osaka, the choice is yours! Visit Todaiji Temple and Nara Park, home to a colony or tame deer. Alternatively, get immersed in another Japanese megacity, with an infinite choice for eating, drinking and entertainment. Be sure to visit Shinsaibashi and the Dotonbori riverfront in the evening! Learn about Osaka .

Day 12: Departure

On your last day, have brunch in Osaka. Say goodbye to your guide and catch the final bullet train back to Tokyo to finish up or continue your travels!

Add an Extra Night: Nikko National Park

Nikko National Park offers beautifully rugged scenery and is less than 2 hours away from Tokyo. Enquire with our sales team about adding an extra night to your trip.

Extend your trip: Ishigaki, Okinawa

Explore Okinawa’s southern Yaeyama Islands with a 4-night stay on Ishigaki. This region of Japan offers crystal clear waters, tropical temperatures and a more relaxed pace. Enquire with our sales team about extending your trip.

View full itinerary

This itinerary is based on public transport, and there will be a lot of walking required.

We recommend that you invest in a local SIM card while travelling on our Japan family tour. For the guided days, your Adventure Leader will guide you to the activities. For the unguided days, you will be provided with information on how to get around the places you want to visit.

Japan Family Tour

Day 1 – tokyo:.

Your Japan family tour begins! Today, you will arrive in Tokyo and make your own way to your accommodation. Enjoy your free time to get settled, and take in your first impressions of Tokyo.

Day 2 – Tokyo:

First things first, it’s time to meet your Adventure Leader, who’ll be waiting for you in the lobby of your accommodation. You will have a trip briefing, which will give you all the information you need to have a safe and smooth adventure through Japan.

Next, it’s time to head off to enjoy the spacious lawns, meandering paths, and tranquil scenery of Shinjuku Gyoen, one of Tokyo’s largest parks. During springtime, it becomes one of the most popular places in the city because of the famous cherry blossoms.

In the afternoon, you will take in Tokyo’s skyline, thanks to an incredible view from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Admire Tokyo from 202 metres above ground and learn a bit more about this building, which is where the headquarters of the Metropolitan Government are located, governing the wards of Tokyo.

Following this, you’ll head to Asakusa to visit the Sensō-Ji temple – an ancient Buddhist temple, which became independent after WWII. You’ll explore the charming streets of Asakusa, an area that possesses the atmosphere of an old Tokyo, with traditional craft shops and street-food stands lining Nakamise Street.

Day 3 – Tokyo:

In the morning, you’ll visit the Ghibli Museum, which showcases the work of the Japanese animation studio ‘Studio Ghibli’. This is a magical, enchanting experience that brings animations to life and is a great family outing. (Due to overwhelming demand and a lottery system, tickets are not guaranteed – we will refund you if tickets are not available).

Enjoy an afternoon of traditional-modern contrast in the Harajuku area of Tokyo. First, wander through the forest until you reach the Meiji Shrine. It’s dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken, who, in the early 20th century, began Japan’s transformation from a feudal to a modern society.

Your second stop today will be Harajuku, which is Tokyo’s fashion district. Here, you’ll encounter punks, goths, technicolour hair – anything goes in Harajuku. Take in the industrial vibes – and if you want, grab some hair dye and join in on the fun!

Then, you’ll head to the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world and the Japanese iconic landmark, Shibuya Crossing. When the lights turn red at this busy intersection, pedestrians surge into the junction from all sides, like a floodgate opening. You can observe the organised chaos from the second-floor window of the Tsutaya building on the crossing’s north side.

Day 4 – Tokyo:

In the morning, you will have the option to experience the hustle and bustle of the world-famous Fish Market. Learn how the Japanese demand for fresh seafood drives a huge fishing industry, and try fresh fish from this morning’s catch! You’ll also be amazed by the variety of fish on offer, and you’ll catch a glimpse of the famous blue-fin tuna.

Afterwards, you will visit Akihabara, Japan’s ‘Electric Town’, hub of anime and manga and home to Japan’s most famous J-pop group, AKB48. You will find venues specialising in manga, anime and games such as the Tokyo Anime Center and Radio Kaikan. Nearby, staff dressed as maids or butlers serve tea at the nearby Akihabara maid cafés.

In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a sushi-making class led by a master sushi chef, and then sample your produce for dinner. You’ll learn how sushi evolved from a South-East Asian technique of preserving fish in fermented rice.

If you want, you’ll also have the option to visit the Touken Museum, where you’ll be able to see exhibitions of Japanese swords.

You can also call in at the batting cages to experience first-hand one of the most popular sports in Japan – baseball!

Day 5 – Hakone:

This morning, you’ll transfer by train to the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. This is where you will enjoy spectacular views of Mount Fuji, an iconic volcano which has come to symbolise Japan. Its perfectly symmetrical peak rises to 12,388 feet!

Take a series of cable cars and mountain railways through the park, before descending for a cruise on the scenic Lake Ashi. You’ll cross Lake Ashi’s clear blue waters and, on a cloudless day, get an unforgettable view of the famous Fuji.

Today, you’ll also have the chance to sample black eggs – a local delicacy coloured by the sulphuric spring waters they’re cooked in.

In the evening, you’ll stay in a ryokan, which is a traditional Japanese inn, where you sleep on futon beds laid over tatami mat floors and enjoy Japanese traditional hot springs, or “onsen”. (Please note: those with tattoos may not be able to enter the “onsen” in Japan as tattoos are associated with gang culture – you can read more about it here .)

Day 6 – Hiroshima:

In the morning, enjoy some free time in Hakone before making your way to Hiroshima. Without a guide, you will board a speedy bullet train from the Odawara station in Hakone to Hiroshima and then transfer by tram to your accommodation.

For dinner, experience all-you-can-eat okonomiyaki – a savory pancake that both the people of Hiroshima and Osaka claim is best in their home city!

Day 7 – Hiroshima:

Hiroshima, a modern city on Japan’s Honshu Island, was largely destroyed by an atomic bomb during World War II.

Today, you will visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park that commemorates the 1945 event. Here, you will find out how this city came to suffer the consequences of the world’s first atomic bomb, but you will also learn that Hiroshima is now the standard-bearer for a peaceful and nuclear-free world.

In the afternoon, take a train ride and a short ferry trip to Miyajima Island, where you’ll reach the Itsukushima shrine. To avoid angering the gods on the island, the main temple buildings were built on stilts on the shores of the island. Just offshore, you will see an enormous Torii gate standing in the sea, and at low tide, you can walk across the sand to take a closer look.

This evening, make your way back to the hostel to enjoy a free evening.

Day 8 – Kyoto:

On to your next destination: Kyoto!

This morning, you’ll make your way to the Hiroshima train station for your next bullet train that you will take without a guide. Your next Adventure Leader will be waiting for you at Kyoto Station!

You’ll start the afternoon off with some traditional meditation. Discover your inner peace with a Zen Buddhist monk, who will take you on a journey of tranquillity in a meditation class at the Daisen-In Temple. Afterwards, explore the temple, and enjoy an informal tea ceremony with volunteers from the temple.

Later, you will head to Kyoto’s most iconic site: the Golden Pavilion at the Kinkaku-ji Zen Buddhist Temple. Walk around the lake and be mesmerised by the shimmering golden reflection of the Pavilion on the water.

In the evening, you will have the option to visit the theatre at Gion Corner, where you’ll see a show of traditional Japanese performances. The programme includes real geisha performing their traditional arts, as well as other Japanese performances of comedy, spoken word and dance. The various performances have English translations in the accompanying program. (We recommend arriving in advance to queue for entry to the show.)

Day 9 – Kyoto:

In the morning, wander down quaint, hillside streets until you reach the stunning 1,200-year-old Kiyomizu Dera temple – from here, you’ll enjoy postcard-worthy views over Kyoto. After this, stroll through the Higashiyama District, one of the city’s best-preserved historic districts, where you can get some souvenirs from traditional merchant shops.

In the afternoon, you will visit the district of Arashiyama, on the Western outskirts of Kyoto. You will also navigate through Arashiyama’s lush bamboo forests.

Later, you will move on to the Tenryu-Ji Temple, one of the most important Zen temples in Japan. Here, you’ll walk around the temple’s showstopping gardens. Designed in the 14th century, they have survived fires and wars, remaining in pristine condition for centuries. Whilst there, make sure to look into the Dharma Hall to see the dragon’s eyes on the mural – they’ll follow you as you walk past!

You’ll also have the option to climb up to the Arashiyama Monkey Park, where you can feed mischievous monkeys or just enjoy the panoramic views of Kyoto below.

In the evening, you can choose to explore Nishiki Market, nicknamed ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’, where you can find all kinds of local food. A great spot for some local dinner!

Day 10 – Kyoto:

This morning, experience Japanese culture with a calligraphy lesson led by a Japanese master of calligraphy in her personal workshop.

Following this, you’ll have the option to dress up in a traditional kimono or yukata and stroll around in the city – a perfect opportunity to capture some memories for your family and friends! In the afternoon, you will have the option to visit the International Manga Museum, which houses over 300,000 publications. So, grab one, settle into a quiet corner, and get lost in a whole new world…

After, you will visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, a major Shinto shrine complex in wooded hills. To get onto the beautiful walking trails at the back of the complex, you’ll pass through corridors of thousands of bright red gates.

For your final evening in Kyoto, and for something quintessentially Japanese, wander through Pontocho Alley, which is full of lanterns and intimate wood-panelled restaurants for dinner. Have a sip of sake and look out for geishas wandering past!

Day 11 – Nara or Osaka:

Today, you have the option to choose between two day tours: Nara or Osaka!

You can enjoy a day trip to Nara. This is where you will visit the Todaiji Temple, encounter deer as you explore the temples and halls in the surrounding grounds of Nara Park, and feed them with their favourite snacks – Japanese Senbei.

Alternatively, you can visit Osaka Castle . Walk through the enormous double moat and then check out the nine-level castle keep or ‘donjon’. You can also visit a hugely popular, six-level gaming arcade, and explore Shinsaibashi shopping district and the Dotonbori Riverfront.

Day 12 – Kyoto:

Sadly, today marks the end of your Japan family tour adventure. You can either transfer to Osaka’s Kansai airport to fly home, or hop on the bullet train back to Tokyo and fly home from there. We can arrange transfers at an extra cost.

What's Included

• 3-star hotels in twin/double or triple rooms on your Japan family tour.
• Your stay in Hakone will be a traditional Japanese ryokan in a family room on futon beds

Accommodation in 3 star, city-centre hotels, such as Apa Hotel, My Stays Hotel or similar. Hotel rooms in Japan are small, but very comfortable, clean and have excellent service

• 7-day JR PASS (Day 6 to Day 12 of your Japan Family Tour) for bullet trains
• A public transport card loaded with 8,000 Yen credit per adult (those aged 12 and over), 4,000 Yen credit per child (6 to 11 years old). Infants (0 to 5 years old) travel free. The credit may not be able to cover all your journeys but will get you to all of the places included on the tour. The public transport card cannot be used on a very small number of journeys, therefore you will occasionally be required to buy tickets separately.

Adventure Leaders

English speaking guides are included on 6 days of our Japan Family Tour (8 hours guided on each of these days as standard). You can arrange additional guides for an additional cost. Any unguided days have been carefully arranged so that they are manageable without a guide. You will be given written instructions on these days.

Unmissable Activities

All entrance tickets to attractions listed on the Japan family tour itinerary, unless marked as optional.

The following highlights:

• Shinjuku Gyoen
• Ghibli Museum
• Sushi Making Class
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
• Meditation Class
• Golden Pavilion
• Kiyomizu Temple
• Tenryuji Temple
• Calligraphy Lesson

You are not obligated to give tips, however, feel free to praise any extraordinary service that you receive.

Additional Activities

Optional activities (tickets can be purchased at each location):

Please note: These prices are subject to change.

Food and Drink – Your guides can suggest various food to try and restaurants to visit.  This tour does not include restaurant bookings. Guides are given a budget by The Dragon Trip for their own meals. We’d advise going to a local restaurants to grab breakfast in the morning too and we’ll help with advising you on suitable places.

A deposit is required to make a reservation on our   Japan family tour, with the balance due 30 days prior to departure (unless booking with one of our promotions, for which specific balance due dates may apply).

The deposit is 10% of the group tour price (unless stated otherwise).

No bookings can be accepted within 90 days of a trip departure date.

Visit our  FAQs page . If you can’t find what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to  contact us .

Pre and Post Nights and Airport Transfers

We can arrange pre and post accommodation for your Japan family tour. A single room is £140 per night and a double or twin room is also £140 in Tokyo. It’s the same price in Osaka.

We can also arrange a private transfer for the whole group. Please let us know if you would be interested in booking a transfer.

Other Japan Adventures

24-day South Korea & Japan Tour

7-day Anime Japan Tour

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Japan for Families: Tokyo, Hakone & Kyoto

Itinerary Details

FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Often otherworldly, yet super intuitive, Japan is an ideal destination for a family getaway. Your family will experience a variety of Japanese activities and attractions on this guided trip, from pop culture icons to animation studios, to fun Japanese traditions dating back centuries.

This 11-day Japan family adventure package is designed for the first-time visitor. It includes must-see stops in Tokyo, Hakone and Kyoto and will delight travellers of all ages.

Begin in Tokyo, as so many great trips to Japan do. After a night to get settled, test your musical skills at a traditional taiko drum lesson. A sightseeing tour then takes you to see the best of Tokyo, including the Tokyo Skytree, pop culture haven Harajuku (with lunch at the Kawaii Monster Café), and Tokyo Character Street, where you’re sure to meet some familiar faces in the local stores. The following day takes you to either Tokyo Disneyland or Disney Sea with a 1-day passport to enjoy Disney’s magic, Japan style! Your final day in Tokyo will thrill all ages with a visit to the famous Ghibli Museum for a day in the world of one of Japan’s most renowned animation studios.

Hot springs are an intrinsic part of Japanese culture, and perhaps no place in the country offers springs on par with Hakone. You’ll have two nights here (pack a small bag) with free time to explore attractions such as the Owakudani volcanic zone, Lake Ashi, or hot spring theme park Yunessun.

Kyoto embodies Japan at its most romantic and stately, but it’s a wonderful destination for families too. Start your exploration at a kimono shop where you’ll have a chance to find traditional dress that suits your style. Fully kitted up, visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its pathway of 10,000 red tori gates, great for both exploration and photo ops. The following day, get around on Kyoto’s excellent public transit system with your guide, visiting the iconic Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), followed by the Arashiyama Monkey Park, where hundreds of monkeys roam free and you’ll enjoy arguably the best view over the city.

A day trip takes you to Universal Studios, Osaka, for a Japanese take on another theme park favourite, followed by a free day in Kyoto. A number of optional day tours are available, including classes in calligraphy or origami, and excursions to Hiroshima, where you can visit the peace park, or Nara, where free roaming deer make Nara Park an irresistible highlight of Japan. Spend one more night in Kyoto before your onward flight.

Itinerary View Trip Map

Arrive tokyo.

On arrival at Narita or Haneda airport, you will be met by an assistant in the arrival lobby after you exit the security zone. Then you will be escorted to the airport bus for your shared transfer to your hotel. The assistant will help you board the bus and then say goodbye. The bus will announce your stop in English. Check in to your hotel on your own and rest of day is at leisure.

Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo

The Keio Plaza Hotel is the ideal location to explore the delights of the city of Tokyo. Only minutes away from the most popular shopping and entertainment spots, the luxury hotel provides stunning views over central Tokyo. The Keio Plaza Hotel offers a wide variety …

The Keio Plaza Hotel is the ideal location to explore the delights of the city of Tokyo. Only minutes away from the most popular shopping and entertainment spots, the luxury hotel provides stunning views over central Tokyo. The Keio Plaza Hotel offers a wide variety of home-away-from-home hospitality, with 1,435 guest rooms to choose from to accommodate your every need. Located in Shinjuku, in the very heart of the Tokyo metropolis, the Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo extends top rated services and facilities, features that guests come to expect of a world class hotel.

• Bellman/Porters
• Business Centre
• Conference Facilities
• Currency Exchange
• Gym/Fitness Centre
• Hair/Beauty Salon
• Mail and Postal Facilities
• Massage Treatments
• Medical Services
• Restaurant(s)
• Room Service
• Secretarial Service

Photo gallery

More Details

Today experience the traditional and modern side of Japan, starting with a hands-on activity. Meet your guide in the lobby of the hotel and travel together by taxi to the venue for your taiko lesson. Taiko is a Japanese drum used in ceremonies, festivals, sports and other events in Japan. Japanese students learn how to play the taiko drum in elementary school. Enjoy a shared group lesson (approx.1 hr) to learn the rhythm and technique of taiko drumming and a live drum demonstration by the teachers. After the lesson meet your guide and begin your sightseeing tour of Tokyo using public transportation. Visit Tokyo Skytree, the tallest building in Tokyo for a spectacular view from the observation deck. Then, take the train to Harajuku, the pop culture neighborhood. Walk along Takeshita pedestrian street and explore the shops. Then take the train to Tokyo station where your guide will drop you off at Tokyo Character Street. Character street has over 30 shops selling popular Japanese character merchandise. Choose to visit the Pokemon Store, the Hello Kitty Shop or other stores. Afterwards, make your own way back to your hotel (your guide will provide directions). The evening is at leisure.

Spend the whole day at Disney's magical kingdom! Choose to visit either Tokyo Disneyland or Disney Sea with a 1-day passport. Take your hotel's Disney shuttle bus to/from the amusement park and explore the park on your own.

Your day in Tokyo is free at leisure. Optional tours can be arranged such as a Nikko day trip or a sushi making lesson.

Tokyo to Hakone

Say goodbye to Tokyo and travel to Hakone, the hot spring capital of Japan. Hakone is apart of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and famous for views of nearby Mount Fuji on clear days. A guide will meet you at your hotel in Tokyo in the morning and help you ship your main luggage to your hotel in Kyoto (approx. cost is 2,000 yen per person per suitcase, standard size). This way you can travel light on the trains, carrying only your overnight bag to Hakone (shipping luggage is very common in Japan). After this, your guide will escort you Shinjuku station and help you board the Limited Express train to Odawara station (approx. 1 hr). On arrival at Odawara station, begin your self guided tour of the Hakone region using many different types of transportation. There are switchback trains, cable cars, boats and buses to travel around the mountainous area. A 3-day Hakone Pass is included so you can travel unlimited. We suggest you take the Hakone rope way to Owakudani, an active volcanic zone and crater where you can hike around, see views of Mount Fuji on clear days and try the popular hot spring cooked eggs that have black shells. From here you can continue by cable car to Lake Ashi where you can take a pirate ship across the lake.

The next 2 nights you will stay at a traditional Japanese inn, called a "ryokan" with hot spring baths. At the ryokan you will have a Japanese style room with futon bedding and enjoy Japanese kaiseki (multi-course) dinners featuring a variety of small plates.

Ichinoyu Honkan

Registered as a Cultural Heritage and established over 380-years ago, Ichinoyu Honkan offers indoor/outdoor hot-spring baths in the famous Hakone area. Guests can enjoy massages or facial treatments and stay in Japanese-style rooms with free Wi-Fi. A shuttle is available from Hakone Yumoto Train Station, …

Registered as a Cultural Heritage and established over 380-years ago, Ichinoyu Honkan offers indoor/outdoor hot-spring baths in the famous Hakone area. Guests can enjoy massages or facial treatments and stay in Japanese-style rooms with free Wi-Fi. A shuttle is available from Hakone Yumoto Train Station, which is a 3-minute drive away. The air-conditioned rooms feature tatami (woven-straw) floors and Japanese futon bedding. Rooms come with a TV, a fridge and an electric kettle with green tea bags. Japanese Yukata robes are provided for all guests, and some rooms have a private open-air bath. Guests can use the internet PC at the lobby and free parking is available on site. A private reservable hot-spring bath is available and local products can be purchased at the souvenir shop. Luggage storage is provided at the front desk. Guests can enjoy hot-spring baths in neighboring properties for free of charge.

Enjoy a free day in Hakone. We suggest you visit Yunessun, a hot spring theme park with indoor and outdoor baths and water slides. You can also enjoy the hot spring baths at your hotel.

Hakone to Kyoto

Check out and make your own way to Odawara station using your Hakone Pass. Then travel by bullet train from Odawara to Kyoto (approx. 2 hrs). Directions will be provided to make sure you have a smooth trip.

Meet, greet on arrival in Kyoto and walk to your hotel to drop off your luggage and then begin your afternoon tour. Take the train to the Fushimi area of Kyoto where you will visit a kimono shop to get dressed up in a kimono, a unique Japanese experience. Adults and children can select a kimono to wear from different color and pattern options. After getting dressed up, visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, home to over 10,000 red tori gates forming a pathway up the mountain. Explore the shrine pathways and enjoy taking photos in your kimonos.

Kyoto Tokyu Hotel

Experience the refinement, elegance and traditional calm of Japan's ancient capital at The Kyoto Tokyu Hotel. Close to Horikawa-gojo, in a quiet area where you can sense the atmosphere of the ancient capital, stands the Kyoto Tokyu Hotel, renowned for its exquisite sophistication and refined …

Experience the refinement, elegance and traditional calm of Japan's ancient capital at The Kyoto Tokyu Hotel. Close to Horikawa-gojo, in a quiet area where you can sense the atmosphere of the ancient capital, stands the Kyoto Tokyu Hotel, renowned for its exquisite sophistication and refined traditional service. Just 5 minutes by taxi from the Hachijo exit of Kyoto station, the hotel accommodates travel and business guests, international receptions, weddings and much more.

• Art Gallery
• Internet Access
• Wedding Chapel
• Wheelchair Accessible Rooms

Enjoy a full day guided tour using public transportation to see more Kyoto highlights. You will start your day with a visit to Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), which was originally built as a retirement villa for the Shogun. After his death it became a Buddhist Temple at his request and is now one of Kyoto's most famous temples.

Then you will head towards Arashiyama area to visit Arashiyama Monkey Park. After hiking uphill for about ten minutes, you will find an open area with over a hundred monkeys roaming freely. There are also nice views down onto the city. 

Come back down for lunch, where you will enjoy a delicious shojin-ryori lunch. Shojin-ryori is delicious vegan Japanese cuisine usually featuring tofu as its main dish. Tofu is also a speciality of the Arashiyama area so you will truly be eating local today.

Then take a break from walking and hop into a rickshaw, for a fun two wheeled carriage ride. Your local rickshaw driver will pull you through Arashiyama's famous bamboo groove. Each rickshaw fits 2 people and the tour is approx.30 minutes. After, visit Tenryuji zen temple, the largest temple in Arashiyama. Your guide will escort you by public transportation back to your hotel in the late afternoon.

Day Trip to Osaka

Spend the whole day at Universal Studios in Osaka! Osaka is a short train ride from Kyoto (approx. 30 mins). The whole day is at leisure to enjoy the amusement park. Entrance tickets and directions will be provided.

Your last day in Japan is free at leisure. Optional tours can be booked, such as a calligraphy and origami lesson, excursion to Nara or Hiroshima, or additional sightseeing in Kyoto.

Depart Kyoto

Day at leisure until your shared bus transfer to Itami or Kansai airport for your departure flight.

Other Information

Departures:, price includes:.

• Meet and assist on arrival
• Shared arrival and departure airport transfers
• 4 nights first-class accommodations in Tokyo (triple or quad room)
• 2 nights first-class ryokan accommodations in Hakone (triple or quad room)
• 4 nights first-class accommodations in Kyoto (triple or quad room)
• Private-guided tours of Tokyo (Day 2), Hakone (Day 5), Kyoto (Day 7 & 8)
• Small group Taiko drum lesson in Tokyo (max 20 guests)
• 1-day admission ticket to Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea
• 1-day admission ticket to Universal Studios
• 3-day Hakone transportation pass
• PASMO transportation card with 2,000 yen per person (approx. $25) to use for unguided activities
• Hakone to Kyoto bullet train ticket in ordinary class
• Breakfast daily (excluding day 1), 1 lunch, 2 dinners

PRICE EXCLUDES:

• Travel insurance
• International airfare & airfare taxes
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1-855-325-2726 (us/canada), 1-909-988-8885 (international), mon. - fri., 8:30am - 5:30pm (pst), (except national holidays), [email protected], family travel.

Planning a family vacation to Japan? You’re in for a treat! Japan happens to be one of the safest countries in the world, is easily navigable, and offers a variety of family-fun activities. Whether you are seeking introduction to another culture or enjoying modern attractions, Japan has something to offer for everyone in the family. Parents may want to visit historic temples, lively festivals, and lush gardens, while children will look forward to Japan’s majestic castles, theme parks, and snow monkeys. Listed below are family-friendly places to visit in Japan, so you can begin planning the perfect family trip. Japan is an amazing country with rich culture and history. Museums are highly recommended for families eager to learn another country’s background and traditions. They are also great exposure for people fascinated in modern technologies, science, space, and other special interests. Both children and adults alike will enjoy the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum, the National Museum of Emerging Science, the Miho Museum, the Ghibli Museum, and the Edo-Tokyo Museum. Lovers of animals and the sea will enjoy Japan’s spectacular aquariums. Since Japan is an island country, its culture and history will always be tied to the ocean. One of the best aquariums in Japan is the Churaumi Aquarium in Okinawa. Other spectacular and popular aquariums include the Aquamarine Fukushima in Iwaki, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan in Osaka, and Marine World Uminonakamichi in Fukuoka. Japan holds world-famous brand name amusement parks, such as Universal Studious, as well as theme parks unique to only its country. One of the most sought-after theme parks in Japan is of course, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, home to wondrous attractions and character-shaped foods that Japan is renowned for. Since ninjas and samurai are iconic in Japan, Nikko Edomura (Edo Wonderland) is a perfect way for families to explore historically based attractions, dress up in costumes, and watch live-action shows. Hello Kitty fans will love the indoor theme park Sanrio Puroland. Festivals take place all over Japan during every season. This is a great way for families to indulge in Japanese culture while introducing a new experience to the young ones. Depending on the event, many festivals in Japan consist of delicious street food, traditional music performances, and ornately decorated floats. Check out the illuminated Sapporo Snow Festival in winter, the stunning Takayama Sanno Festival in spring, the colorful Nebuta Matsuri during summer, and the historical Jidai Matsuri in the autumn season. When the average person thinks of castles, they may immediately think of European medieval-style castles. However, Japan happens to be home to several impressive castles that are also UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Be sure to visit the elegant Himeji Castle, an original-standing structure and a perfect example of traditional Japanese castle architecture. Kids will love to visit the former residences of high ranking samurai warriors and war lords. Other magnificent castles include the Matsumoto Castle (Crow Castle), the Osaka Castle, and the Hirosaki Castle. The whole family will love the unique experience of meeting Japan’s famous snow monkeys. These onsen-bathing monkeys, Japanese Macaques to be exact, are found at the Jigokudani Monkey Park located deep into the forest. They are accustomed to humans, allowing a special close-up experience. The park is best visited during the colder seasons, where a snowy backdrop makes for an excellent photo-taking opportunity.

Plan your trip

When you contact us through e-mail or phone, we will discuss the type of trip and services you're interested in. There are many things to consider when planning your trip to Japan, such as your travel date, length of stay, destination cities, points of interest, and budget. Based on this information, we will create an initial “sketch” itinerary that includes an outline of recommended travel routes, destinations, accommodations, transportation type, and services we can provide. Many of our clients select one of our existing Group Tour itineraries and adjust it according to their interests, budget, and other modifications. We also have clients that have their own ideas about their intentions and plans, or even a specific itinerary in mind. However you envision your tour to Japan, you can depend on us to provide first-rate service and exceptional pricing. A minimum of 15 travelers is recommended to get the best rates. (Although we can accommodate smaller parties at higher rates).

Our Japan Custom Group Travel Inquiry Form is designed to give us a clear picture of your interests and preferences, so that we can create the ideal vacation for you. If one of our itinerary is the ideal base plan for you, please mention so in your inquiry. We will customize the plan so that the plan will meet your specific needs and desires.

Reviews for Our Custom Group Travel

  5.0 stars based on 28 REVIEWS

1   2   3   4   5   6   >>   see all

Custom Group Tour - Japanese Design: Study Tour

5/29/2023 - 6/9/2023 / 2023-05-29   

I hired All Japan Tours to organize the art tour which I curated. We worked on it for two years as this was a complicated trip with a lot of different locations, strict schedule, private viewing, and everything had to be on the highest level of hotels and food. The job that Kiyoshi and his team have done is exceptional. It was so well organized that everything was on time. They are flexible, detail oriented, and lovely to work with.

Japan Custom Group Tour

5/21/2023 - 5/30/2023 / 2023-05-21   

If you want one of the best tours of your life go with All Japan Tours and ask for Miss Kim. We went for our honeymoon and Miss Kim made it unforgettable. We experienced more than we could have imagined and she was exceptionally helpful and informative. Japan is the most beautiful place we have seen in our lives, and when we got home we missed both the country and Miss Kim. Thank you for all that you have done. We hope to come back again! You really made our honeymoon memorable.

Mr. DiSano and Ms. Urquiza

Custom Group Tour

5/11/2023 - 5/24/2023 / 2023-05-11   

The guide and bus driver were exceptional.

Everything about the tour was amazing! Our guide Miharu was a very big part of making the tour so fantastic. Her knowledge, guidance, assistance, storytelling, friendliness -- I can go on and on, and especially her humor and comedic skills had us all laughing and wanting more. She never failed to have an answer to our questions. Driver Harada-san was also so accommodating and pleasant to have as our driver -- he had the softest hands! I loved all the "hand on" activities - doing bonsai, woodcarving, making kamaboko, making tatami, dancing. It was also so special that Miharu was able to have the beautiful Japanese singer fly in just to entertain us on the bus. That was so special and I'm sure something that is not done for all tours.

Ms. Kawaguchi

Our tour was carefully curated to meet the diverse interests of our group. We had a group of family and friends, many who have traveled to Japan together several times before with a different company. AJT was by far superior in the sites and experiences they provided. The local tour guide was informative and funny and took the extra steps to make sure our tour would be memorable. We will definitely use AJT for our next trip. Thank you

Mr. Takasugi

• Custom Travel
• Family Vacation in Japan

Why travel with Michi Travel Japan?

• Personalized itinerary including experience designed by our experienced travel consultant
• Carefully selected child-friendly guides and accommodations
• Fully supported worry-free vacation from destination selection to the end of your trip

Sightseeing

Japan is a small country yet it has a lot to offer. We will help you create perfect trip for both adults and children, including some highlights of shrines and temples but also places children would love, such as zoo, aquarium and amusement parks. Feel free to let us know how you would like the trip to be, if you would like to have tours almost every day, or you would like to have some relaxing days on your own to chill...you name it. Please rest assured that we will be flexible and will offer you a comfortable and memorable family trip.

Cultural Immersion

Enjoy Japanese traditional culture, history and lifestyle. We are happy to offer inspiring and fun experiences for the varied interests of different generations in a family. For a family with small children, we will arrange kids-friendly cultural activities such as folding origami paper and wearing kimono. For a family with teenagers, more sophisticated activities can be included such as tea ceremony, or even visiting exclusive restaurant where geisha (maiko or geiko in Kyoto) entertain your family.

Our previous family travelers also enjoyed private lessons on wadaiko (Japanese drum), calligraphy, cookings and more.

Unique accommodation stay

Staying at unique accommodations would make your family trip so special! There are several types of unique accommodations for family travelers. Ryokan (Japanese-style inn) stay is one of the best ways to experience traditional culture and Japanese hospitality. Immerse yourself in Japanese traditional lifestyle by staying in a tatami-floor room, wearing yukata (casual kimono), and enjoying kaiseki dinner. Though most luxury ryokans have your private bath at your room, if you like, you can relax in a large common bath (many of them are hot spring).

Natural Wonder

Japan has a variety of scenic beauty that changes across seasons. Climate differs depending on where you go, so we will recommend suitable destination based on what you would like to do and your travel period. You can find some sample itinerary below recommended based on your purpose. Let us know all your requests, and we will create your own unique itinerary.

• Winter activities... Hokkaido Custom Travel
• Hiking and cycling in historical towns... Unspoiled Traditional Towns
• Beach and ocean activities... Okinawa

Culinary experiences are very important part of the journey. Japanese cuisine, "Washoku" is registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Sushi is probably the best known Japanese food, and we recommend you to try at least once in Japan. Sushi in Japan would be a whole different experience. "Washoku" ranges from sophisticated vegetarian dishes in Buddhist temple to juicy beef steak utilizing worldly renowned Kobe beef. We would like to recommend perfect restaurants for you based on your preferences and dietary requirements.

Is your child a picky eater? No worries! We are sure your children munching happily in Japan. Depachika sweets (high-end sweets sold in the basement floor of department stores) and local snacks will be your children's new favorite during the trip.

If you would like to experience gourmet in Japan, we suggest the following itinerary: Gourmet Tour Japan

Entertainment

If you wonder what type of entertainment we have in Japan, feel free to ask us. We will include baseball games, Sumo matches, animal cafe, character-themed cafe, Karaoke, popular unique museums, etc. If your children are into fashion or the photogenic food, we are happy to arrange a private tour including Tokyo's hottest and trendy shops that only savvy Tokyo locals know.

Click for Sample Tours

Recommended for first-time visitors:.

• Family Travel: Japan Highlight Tour

This "Highlights of Japan Family Tour"　itinerary includes major cities and towns for first-time visitors, fun activities for children and also some off-the-beaten paths. During this trip, you will learn from the latest trend to traditional culture.

Recommended for family who has traveled to Japan before:

• Family Travel: Kyushu

Kyushu, the third largest island located in the southern part of Japan, can be a perfect destination for family trip. Thanks to the warm climate through the year, the island is blessed with both green mountains and blue clear ocean.

• Family Travel: Hokkaido

Located in the northernmost part of Japan, Hokkaido has a variety of attractions to offer, dynamic nature, unique cultures, volcanoes and hot springs, food cultures, etc. It is full of adventures for families, hiking in national parks, canoeing in clear lakes, skiing in powder snow, learning local culture, tasting fresh seafood, etc.

Request for customized family travel

Custom travel request.

Fill in the form to request for our custom itinerary services.

General inquiry

Contact us for more general inquiries.

If one of the sample tours is the ideal base plan for you, please mention so in your answer or inquiry. We will customize the plan to suit your specific needs.

• Highlights of Japan Tour
• Highlights of Western Japan Tour
• Hokkaido Custom Travel
• Kyushu Custom Travel
• Unspoiled Traditional Towns
• Gourmet Tour Japan
• Japan's traditional art, architecture and culture tour
• Japan Garden Tour
• Rural Charms of Northern Japan - Tohoku
• Contemporary Art & Architecture Tour in Japan
• Bonsai Tours
• Honeymoon in Japan
• Trip to Northern Kyoto and Surrounding Area (Kyoto's off-the-beaten gems)
• Trip to National Parks in Japan
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