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 SkyTree & TeamLab planets

Start the day with a visit to Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan and one of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks. From the observation decks, take in sweeping panoramic views of the city—on clear days, you may even glimpse Mt. Fuji on the horizon.

After enjoying the views, explore the surrounding Tokyo Solamachi, home to stylish shops, local souvenirs, and cafés perfect for a relaxed break.

In the afternoon, step into the immersive digital art world of teamLab Planets. This one-of-a-kind museum dissolves the boundary between art and viewer, inviting you to walk through water, mirrored spaces, and ever-changing light installations. It’s a deeply sensory experience—quiet, playful, and thought-provoking—that lingers long after you leave.

In the evening, enjoy a casual and fun dinner experience at a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Watch fresh sushi glide past on the belt and pick your favorites as you go—an easy, interactive way to experience everyday Japanese dining culture.

Overnight: Shinagawa Prince Hotel or similar, Tokyo
Meals: Breakfast at hotel, Sushi for Dinner
A day that captures modern Tokyo at its best—soaring city views above the clouds, and art that
invites you to step inside and feel, rather than simply look.

Day 5: 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 6: Yokohama

Begin the day in Yokohama with a visit to Sankeien Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful and expansive traditional gardens. Stroll through serene ponds, historic architecture, and seasonal landscapes that offer a quiet contrast to the city beyond.

Continue with a relaxing walk through Yamashita Park, a scenic harbor-side park overlooking Yokohama Bay. Enjoy open views of the port, gentle sea breezes, and the city’s maritime atmosphere.

Explore Yokohama Chinatown, the largest Chinatown in Japan, filled with colorful gates, bustling streets, and tempting local food stalls.

Later, experience the city from above on the Yokohama Air Cabin, offering unique aerial views of Yokohama’s modern waterfront and skyline.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Japanese-style dinner at Beniya Hotel. Relax and unwind in a comfortable Japanese–Western style room, combining tatami elements with modern amenities for a restful night.
Overnight: Beniya Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Japanese-style Dinner

Day 7: 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 8: Kyoto Icons

Begin the day at the world-famous, seemingly endless bamboo forest of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Walk through towering green stalks that sway gently overhead, creating a peaceful and otherworldly atmosphere unique to Kyoto.

Continue to Fushimi Inari Taisha, renowned for its thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates winding up the mountainside. Stroll through this iconic path, one of Japan’s most photographed and spiritually significant sites.

Evening — Choose Your Experience

● Optional Experience (Additional $100):

Enjoy a Japanese traditional-style dinner paired with an elegant Geisha show in Kyoto. This cultural evening offers a         rare opportunity to experience refined Japanese arts, hospitality, and seasonal cuisine.

● Alternative Option:

Guests not selecting the optional experience will enjoy free time and shopping at AEON
Mall, a convenient and relaxed way to explore everyday Japanese retail and dining.

Overnight: Hotel Nikko Osaka or similar, Osaka
Meals: Breakfast

(Optional dinner included for guests joining the Geisha experience)
A day that captures the soul of Japan—from tranquil bamboo forests and sacred torii gates to a
choice between refined tradition or modern local life.

Day 9: Osaka & Nara

Begin the day in Nara with a visit to Tōdai-ji, home to the world’s largest wooden structure. Inside, encounter the awe-inspiring Great Buddha, renowned as the largest bronze Buddha statue in Japan.

Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk through Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely, creating a uniquely peaceful and memorable setting.

Travel on to Osaka to explore Osaka Castle, Japan’s largest samurai castle. Learn about the era of warlords and admire panoramic views of the city from the castle grounds, blending history with modern urban scenery.

In the evening, dive into Osaka’s lively food culture at Dotonbori. Enjoy Osaka-style local favorites such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki while soaking in the neon-lit atmosphere that defines the city’s energetic spirit.

Overnight: Hotel Nikko Osaka or similar, Osaka
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (Osaka-style cuisine)
A day rich in contrast—ancient temples and sacred wildlife in Nara, followed by the bold history
and vibrant street life of Osaka.

Day 10: 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!