13-Day Japan Tour: Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Osaka & Beyond

Welcome to Tokyo! In the afternoon, you’ll meet your group for a trip briefing with your Adventure Leader, who will give you the inside scoop on what’s ahead and share handy tips for navigating Japan like a pro.

Next up is a welcome dinner with your group, which we think is the perfect way to break the ice while enjoying your first taste of Japan’s incredible cuisine.

In the evening, the choice is yours: keep the night going with your new travel crew at a local bar, or take it easy and get some rest before your adventure kicks off in full swing tomorrow.

Today kicks off with one of our unmissable experiences; a hands-on sushi-making class. Roll up your sleeves, learn the art of sushi from local experts, and then enjoy your creations for lunch.

In the afternoon, we’ll step into the serene Meiji Shrine, one of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji, who helped modernize Japan and bring an end to the shogunate, it’s a place full of history and calm reflection.

Next, it’s off to Harajuku, Tokyo’s famous fashion hub where anything goes — from technicolour hair to punk and goth styles. Wander the lively backstreets, browse quirky vintage shops, and grab a bite at one of the area’s iconic eateries.

Then experience the famous Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection, and don’t forget to spot the legendary Hachiko statue nearby (a must-see Tokyo moment).

Later this afternoon is yours to explore. Feeling adventurous? Take on Kartoon Karting and zoom through Tokyo’s streets in a go-kart for a truly unforgettable ride.

Start your day at Yanaka Ginza, a charming retro shopping street brimming with local stalls, quirky shops, and delicious street eats. It’s the perfect spot to soak up a slice of everyday Tokyo life.

Next, we head to Akihabara, Japan’s legendary “Electric Town.” This neon playground is packed with gaming arcades, anime stores, and gadget shops galore and challenge your travel crew to a few friendly arcade battles! Afterwards, enjoy a “Maid in Tokyo” experience at one of Akihabara’s famous maid cafes, a quirky, picture-perfect slice of Japanese pop culture.

Then it’s off to the historic Asakusa district, home to the iconic Sensoji Temple. Stroll down Nakamise-dori with its lively traditional stalls before stepping inside Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple.

Afterwards, you can opt for an unforgettable sumo experience, meeting ex-wrestlers, learning about the sport’s traditions, and enjoying a hearty chanko nabe dinner; the dish that fuels sumo athletes.

The evening is free to explore at your own pace. Ask your Adventure Leader for top tips, or head to Hoppy Street, where lively izakayas and local drinks like doburoku offer a true taste of Tokyo nightlife.

Today we leave the city behind for a day of fresh air, stunning views, and traditional charm. Starting from Shinjuku Station, we catch the train to Shimoyoshida and hike up to the beautiful Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine. With its iconic pagoda and Mt Fuji as a backdrop on a clear day, it’s one of the most photographed spots in Japan and you’ll see why when you arrive.

Next, a short journey takes us to Oshino Hakkai, a tranquil village in the Fuji Five Lakes region. Famous for its crystal-clear ponds fed by Mt Fuji’s snowmelt, this spot feels like stepping back in time with its old thatched-roof houses. You’ll have time to wander, explore, and enjoy lunch, and if the skies are clear, catch some breathtaking views of Mt Fuji.

(Please note: Mt Fuji visibility depends on weather conditions.)

In the afternoon, we return to Tokyo, arriving in time for a free evening. Make your last night in the city count, whether that’s a final ramen stop, shopping spree, or bar-hopping with your travel crew.

This morning we say goodbye to Tokyo and head to the coastal town of Shimoda. We’ll store our bags in lockers and travel light for our night in town. The day begins with a Shimoda Bay Sightseeing Cruise, a short boat ride offering sweeping views of the coastline and fascinating insights into the port’s history and you might even get to feed the birds from the back of the boat!

Back on land, we stroll along Perry Road, a charming stone-paved street lined with traditional houses, cozy cafés, and quirky shops. We’ll also visit the Museum of Black Ships (MoBS), home to over 3,000 artefacts detailing Japan’s transition from isolation to international trade, and the nearby Ryosenji Temple, the quiet site where the Treaty of Shimoda was signed.

After some free time to wander, we ascend on the Shimoda Ropeway for panoramic views of the city, coastline, and mountains. If the timing’s right, you might even catch a stunning sunset over the bay.

In the evening, we settle into our Shimoda accommodation, where you can unwind with a relaxing onsen experience which is the perfect way to round off a full and memorable day.

Please note the room upgrade is not available for this night.

This morning we say farewell to Shimoda and take the train to Atami. Enjoy some free time for lunch and a chance to explore this charming seaside city before boarding the famous shinkansen (bullet train) bound for Kyoto.

Upon arrival, your Adventure Leader will lead a short orientation walk to help you get your bearings and ease into the serene vibe of Japan’s cultural capital.

In the evening, it’s time to swap zen for zany! Join your travel crew for a classic Japanese karaoke night, belting out your favourite tunes and kicking off your stay in Kyoto with fun and laughter.

Today begins with the elegance of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Watch as the instructor carefully prepares and serves matcha, then try your hand at whisking your own bowl. Sweet treats are served alongside, and if you wish, you can rent a kimono for the full immersive experience.

Next, we visit Kiyomizu-dera, one of Japan’s most iconic Buddhist temples and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take in the sweeping views from its wooden stage, then enjoy some free time for lunch among the bustling shops surrounding the temple.

In the afternoon, your Adventure Leader will guide a short walk through Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district, filled with narrow lanes, tea houses, and traditional wooden machiya. The evening is yours to explore! Whether that means tasting your way through Nishiki Market, browsing Teramachi’s shops, visiting the Samurai Ninja Museum, or catching a show at the GEAR non-verbal theatre.

This morning is yours to explore Kyoto your way. Your Adventure Leader will be on hand via WhatsApp or phone if you need tips or support, but the choice is all yours. You could:

Stroll the Philosopher’s Path, admiring the serene temples along the way.

Head to Arashiyama for the famous bamboo grove, a hike up to Monkey Park, or a visit to Tenryu-ji Temple.

Take a trip to Nara to see the majestic Todaiji Temple and meet the friendly deer in Nara Park.

Enjoy more cultural experiences in Kyoto, like another tea ceremony, a kimono rental, or a visit to the Ninja and Samurai Museum. (Kyoto is extremely popular, especially during cherry blossom season, so book early to avoid missing out.)

Or simply ask your Adventure Leader for insider tips to uncover hidden gems in the city or beyond.

In the afternoon, we regroup for a hands-on calligraphy class. Guided by a local teacher, you’ll learn the graceful art of Japanese brush writing and create a keepsake to take home.

Get ready for a true Dragon moment! Today we hop on bikes and explore Kyoto like a local. Our half-day ride takes us through quieter streets and leads to a serene Zen temple, where you’ll join a meditation session led by a Buddhist monk, followed by a calming tea ceremony.

After this journey into tranquility, we pause for a quick lunch before visiting one of Kyoto’s most iconic sights: the Golden Pavilion at Kinkaku-ji. With its shimmering reflection in the surrounding pond, it’s a view you won’t soon forget.

In the afternoon, we swap pedals for speed as the bullet train whisks us west to Hiroshima. After checking in at the hostel, take some time to rest before the evening’s optional group dinner at Okonomiyaki Village, where skilled chefs prepare Hiroshima’s signature dishes right in front of you.

This morning, we take a train and a short ferry ride to Miyajima Island, home to the famous floating torii gate. At low tide, you can even walk across the sand and stand right beneath this iconic landmark.

Next, ride the Miyajima Ropeway up Mt Misen for breathtaking views over the island. Feeling adventurous? You can hike back down through the forest trails instead of taking the ropeway.

After some free time for lunch, we return to the mainland and visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome, which is a moving experience that offers a deeper understanding of the city’s history and a powerful message of peace.

We then head back to the hostel in Hiroshima for a free evening to rest or explore at your own pace.

This morning, we hop on the bullet train from Hiroshima to Okayama, where our first stop is the Kurashiki Bikan Quarter. This beautifully preserved Edo-period district is full of charm, with canals, traditional streets, and cosy cafés. Take your time to wander, sample local sweets, and browse the souvenir shops at your own pace.

Next, we visit Korakuen Garden, ranked among the Three Great Gardens of Japan. With its seasonal beauty and sweeping lawns, it offers a peaceful escape and a glimpse into Edo-period elegance.

After collecting our luggage at the station, we continue by shinkansen to Shin Osaka. Once settled, the evening is yours to enjoy. You can rest after a full day or head out to Shinsekai, Osaka’s retro entertainment district. Don’t miss trying kushikatsu, skewered and deep-fried delights perfect for sharing with your new friends.

This morning begins with a short orientation walk to Shinsaibashi, one of Osaka’s liveliest shopping streets. Take some time to explore, soak up the atmosphere, and grab lunch at one of the countless local spots.

The rest of the afternoon is free for you to discover Osaka at your own pace. You might choose to:

Explore the iconic Osaka Castle and enjoy sweeping city views from its tower.

Browse, shop, and snack your way through Umeda’s buzzing streets.

Step into the National Museum to learn more about Japan’s rich history and culture.

This evening, we come together for a special farewell dinner, the perfect chance to share memories, swap photos, and reflect on the unforgettable journey you’ve had across Japan with your travel crew.

All good things must come to an end and today marks the close of your Japan adventure. Spend the morning saying goodbye to your travel crew and looking back on the incredible experiences you have shared over the past 13 days.

Whether you are off to your next destination or heading home, we hope this journey has given you a true taste of Japan’s culture, contrasts and unforgettable moments.

If you would like to extend your time in Osaka, or book a train ticket back to Tokyo, get in touch with our team!