Discover Japan

Day 1: Depart for Japan

Begin your journey to the “Land of the Rising Sun.” Relax in-flight and prepare for an unforgettable cultural adventure.
Overnight: ✈️ In transit

Day 2: Arrive in Tokyo & Welcome Dinner

Arrive in Tokyo, the sophisticated gateway to the “Land of the Rising Sun.” Upon landing, you may choose to arrange an optional airport transfer for a seamless journey to the Shinagawa Prince Hotel or similar, an elegant urban retreat ideally located for both comfort and convenience.

This evening at 7 PM, meet your Tour Manager and fellow travelers for a warm orientation offering insights into the remarkable experiences ahead. Following the briefing, savor a refined yet casual welcome dinner at the Royal Host restaurant or similar next to your hotel — a beloved Japanese establishment where familiar flavors meet local culinary charm, providing a comforting first taste of Japan.

(We recommend flights arriving no later than 4 PM for a smooth start.)
Optional: Airport pick up
Overnight: Shinagawa Prince Hotel or similar, Tokyo
Meals: Dinner at Royal Host Restaurant or similar

Day 3: Imperial Tokyo City Tour

Today, immerse yourself in the captivating contrasts of Tokyo — a city where timeless traditions harmoniously coexist with cutting-edge innovation.

Your day begins at the Meiji Shrine, a tranquil sanctuary nestled within a lush forest that honors Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken. Next, journey to the Imperial Palace, home to Japan’s Imperial family. Stroll the pristine grounds and admire the iconic Nijubashi Bridge, its graceful stone arches leading toward the palace gates. Continue to Asakusa, once Tokyo’s entertainment hub. Pass through the grand gates of the Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple dating back to the 7th century, and wander Nakamise Street with its traditional snacks and handcrafted souvenirs.

Tonight, explore Tokyo at leisure — from rooftop bars to cozy izakaya alleys, discover why the city’s nightlife is among the world’s best.
Overnight: Shinagawa Prince Hotel or similar, Tokyo
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4: Tokyo at Leisure / Optional Mt. Fuji & Hakone

Spend the day exploring Tokyo at your own pace — from vibrant neighborhoods and shopping districts to tranquil gardens and hidden cafes.

Alternatively, join an optional full-day excursion to Mt. Fuji and Hakone. Begin at Ōishi Park, renowned for sweeping, postcard-perfect views of Mt. Fuji framed by seasonal flowers and Lake Kawaguchi. Continue to Hakone, where the Ropeway gondola lifts you above Owakudani Valley’s volcanic landscapes. End with a peaceful cruise on Lake Ashi, surrounded by misty mountains. Return to Tokyo in the evening with unforgettable memories.

Please note: Weather conditions around Mt. Fuji can be unpredictable; views and certain activities, such as the ropeway or boat ride, may be affected.
Overnight: Shinagawa Prince Hotel or similar, Tokyo
Meals: Breakfast at hotel

Day 5: Bullet Train to Osaka • Kuromon Market & Castle

This morning, depart Tokyo aboard the world-renowned Shinkansen “bullet train.” In just a few hours, arrive in Osaka — Japan’s second-largest city, celebrated for its vibrant energy and culinary heritage.

Begin at Kuromon Market, a culinary landmark brimming with fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and street foods. Continue through Shinsaibashi and neon-lit Dotonbori, before concluding with a visit to Osaka Castle — a 16th-century masterpiece surrounded by a scenic park and moat, with exhibits illuminating Osaka’s feudal past.

Check into your hotel and relax before gathering for dinner.
Overnight: Hotel Nikko Osaka or similar, Osaka
Meals: Breakfast at hotel, Dinner at local street food restaurant

Day 6: Osaka at Leisure / Optional Hiroshima & Miyajima

Enjoy a full day to explore Osaka at leisure, or join an optional full-day excursion to Hiroshima and Miyajima Island.

Travel by train and ferry to Miyajima, famed for Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic “floating” torii gate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll the island’s charming streets before continuing to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park, near the epicenter of the atomic blast. Pause at the Peace Flame, which will burn until nuclear weapons are eradicated — a powerful reminder of resilience and peace.

Return to Osaka in the evening.
Overnight: Hotel Nikko Osaka or similar, Osaka
Meals: Breakfast at hotel

Day 7: Kyoto Icons — Golden Pavilion, Arashiyama & Gion

This morning, depart Osaka for Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital and cultural heart. Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), draped in gold leaf beside a reflecting pond. Continue to Arashiyama to walk the Bamboo Grove and cross Togetsukyo Bridge, admiring seasonal mountain scenery.

In the evening, wander Gion’s historic lanes, where traditional wooden machiya and softly lit teahouses preserve Kyoto’s timeless elegance.
Overnight: Hotel Nikko Osaka or similar, Osaka
Meals: Breakfast at hotel

Day 8: Kyoto & Nara — Fushimi Inari, Todai-ji & Dinner

Begin the day at Fushimi Inari Taisha, walking beneath thousands of vermilion torii gates. Continue to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital. Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha — one of the largest bronze statues in the world — and stroll among the sacred deer of Nara Park.

In the evening, return to Kyoto for a buffet-style dinner at Oyasai Sannosai in Aeon Mall, known for fresh seasonal vegetables. Conclude at the Kyoto Station Observation Deck, enjoying panoramic night views of the city.
Overnight: Hotel Nikko Osaka or similar, Osaka
Meals: Breakfast at hotel, Dinner at Oyasai Sannosai

Day 9: Depart Japan

After breakfast at your hotel, transfer approximately one hour to Osaka’s airport for your departure flight. Optional private transfer available on request.

As you bid farewell, carry with you unforgettable memories of Japan’s traditions, cities, and landscapes.
Overnight: ✈️ In transit
Meals: Breakfast at hotel

Past Japan Adventures

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Here’s our Discovery Journey family on a past trip to Japan, standing together beneath the cherry blossoms.
Our travelers bonded over shared experiences — from exploring temples to tasting new flavors — and returned home with lifelong friendships.

Join us on our next departure and be part of the story!