The Golden Route: Tokyo, Fuji, and Kyoto

Upon arrival, your driver will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your accommodation, where you'll meet your local assistant. Greater Tokyo is the world's largest metropolitan area. Once a small fishing village known as Edo, it became Japan's capital in 1868. Today, the city seamlessly blends traditional neighborhoods with gleaming skyscrapers and an exceptionally efficient public transportation system. Airport-to-accommodation transfer: approx. 30 min - 1 hour (depending on the airport). Overnight in Tokyo (breakfast included).

Begin your day in Shinjuku, one of Tokyo's most vibrant districts, home to soaring skyscrapers, bustling department stores, and lively entertainment. Continue to the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, nestled within a tranquil forest in the heart of the city. Next, explore Harajuku, the center of Japan's youth culture and street fashion. Stroll along colorful Takeshita Street before browsing the stylish boutiques of Omotesando, often compared to Paris's Champs-Élysées. End the day in Shibuya and experience the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, one of Tokyo's most iconic landmarks. Overnight in Tokyo (breakfast included).

Located in Tokyo's historic sumo district of Ryogoku, the Edo-Tokyo Museum brings the city's fascinating past to life through detailed scale models, interactive exhibits, and immersive displays. Continue your exploration at the lively Ameyoko Market, one of Tokyo's most popular shopping streets for locals and visitors alike. Just a short distance away, discover Asakusa, one of Tokyo's most traditional neighborhoods and home to the city's oldest and most iconic temple, Sensō-ji. End the day at Tokyo Skytree, Japan's tallest tower, and take in breathtaking panoramic views stretching across the city at sunset. Overnight in Tokyo (breakfast included).

While Tokyo offers endless discoveries, a peaceful escape to nearby Kamakura is well worth the trip. Just 45 minutes from the capital, this charming seaside town became Japan's first shogunal capital in the late 12th century. Visit the iconic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, explore the serene grounds of Kencho-ji, Kamakura's oldest Zen temple, and admire the views from Hase-dera Temple. End your day at Kotoku-in Temple, home to the famous Great Buddha—an impressive 36-foot (11-meter) bronze statue and one of Japan's most iconic landmarks. Overnight in Tokyo (breakfast included).

Anime, manga, and video game fans will love Ikebukuro, home to attractions such as Pokémon Center MEGA TOKYO and Sunshine City. Alternatively, explore Akihabara, Tokyo's famous electronics and anime district, or browse the retro shops and collectibles of Nakano Broadway. Continue to Ginza for a visit to the iconic Hakuhinkan Toy Park before heading to Odaiba, a lively waterfront district in Tokyo Bay. Admire the life-size Gundam statue before ending the day at teamLab Planets TOKYO DMM, an immersive digital art museum where dazzling light, sound, and interactive installations create an unforgettable experience. Overnight in Tokyo (breakfast included).

Discover the natural beauty of Hakone, one of Japan's most scenic mountain retreats. Visit the picturesque Hakone Shrine before cruising across Lake Ashi, where, on a clear day, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of Mount Fuji. Continue by ropeway to the volcanic valley of Owakudani and its GeoMuseum, where you can learn about the area's fascinating geothermal activity. Later, unwind at your traditional ryokan, where you'll experience the timeless hospitality of Japan. Soak in a soothing onsen (natural hot spring), savor an elegant seasonal kaiseki dinner, and spend the night on a comfortable futon laid over tatami mats. Guide and private car. Overnight in Hakone (half board).

Kyoto was founded in 794 and was the imperial capital for more than 1,000 years. The city has 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, 1,600 Buddhist temples, and 400 Shinto shrines. Start your journey with the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, overlooking the city, or explore the Higashiyama district and its shopping streets. Further down, the Yasaka Grand Shrine, dedicated to the Shinto sea deity Susanoo, marks the boundary with the Gion district, known for its traditional atmosphere and geishas. In the evening, head to the Pontocho alley along the Kamo River to enjoy traditional restaurants. Train ride: 3 hours. Overnight in Kyoto (breakfast included).

Explore Kyoto’s must-sees, such as the Golden Pavilion, or Kinkaku-ji in Japanese. A few steps away is the Ryoan-ji Temple, a masterpiece of Zen culture that is famous for its garden. Then, head to the Silver Pavilion, or Ginkaku-ji in Japanese, before going for a walk along the Philosopher's Path, a stone path lined with cherry trees. Next, reach the Nanzen-ji Temple, which is tucked away in lush greenery at the base of the Higashiyama mountains. It is one of Kyoto’s five great Zen temples and the seat of the Rinzai school of Buddhism. Overnight in Kyoto (breakfast included).

Located just 30 miles south of Kyoto, Nara offers the perfect escape for a peaceful day steeped in history. As one of Japan's first capitals, it is home to remarkable cultural treasures, many of which are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. First, visit the majestic Tōdai-ji Temple, nestled in Nara Park, where hundreds of deer roam freely among visitors. Then, head to the peaceful Isuien Garden before visiting the Kasuga-taisha Shrine, renowned for its thousands of lanterns. On the way back to Kyoto, stop at Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its seemingly endless tunnels of vermilion torii gates climbing the mountainside. Overnight in Kyoto (breakfast included).

Experience a different side of Kyoto with activities for all ages. Begin at the Kyoto International Manga Museum before exploring Japan's fascinating railway heritage at the Railway Museum. Next, rent a bicycle and enjoy a leisurely ride along the scenic Kamogawa River, then step into the world of the ninja with a fun, hands-on training experience. End the day by dressing in an elegant kimono and strolling through Kyoto's historic streets. Stop at a traditional machiya townhouse for memorable photos and a lasting souvenir of Japan's ancient capital. Overnight in Kyoto (breakfast included).

Nestled in the forested mountains north of Kyoto, Kibune and Kurama offer a refreshing countryside escape just outside the city. The journey begins aboard the scenic train to Kibune, where panoramic windows reveal cedar forests and mountain streams. Visit the lantern-lined Kifune Shrine, then follow a peaceful trail through ancient woods to the mystical Kurama-dera Temple, perched high above the valley. After descending through the quiet village of Kurama, end the day with a relaxing soak in the area's famous natural hot spring, surrounded by the sounds of the mountains. Overnight in Kyoto (breakfast included).

As your journey comes to an end, bid farewell to a country where timeless traditions and vibrant modern life exist side by side. Depending on your departure time, enjoy a few final moments to browse the shops for last-minute souvenirs, or simply soak in the atmosphere before heading to the airport for your flight home. As you look back on the memories you've made, perhaps you'll already be dreaming of your next adventure in Japan. Airport Osaka transfer: 1h 20m.