Essential Japan Explorer - 13 Days

Welcome to Tokyo! Arrive into either Narita or Haneda International Airport in Tokyo and independently travel by public transport into the city centre where you will be met by your tour leader and the rest of the group at the Imano Tokyo Hostel.

Meet your Adventure Leader at 4:00 PM for a briefing on the itinerary, safety, and group introductions. Afterwards, enjoy a hands-on sushi-making class with a professional chef, where you'll create and dine on your own sushi for the welcome dinner. In the evening, take in breathtaking views of the city from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building's observation deck.

The night concludes with an optional trip to a local bar for drinks and socialising with your group, with one drink included.

This morning, we'll visit Tokyo's iconic Tsukiji Outer Market to explore food stalls and enjoy fresh sashimi for a late breakfast or early lunch at your own expense.

Afterward, head to the Asakusa District to visit Sensō-Ji Temple, followed by free time to explore and have lunch. Optional activities include a sumo experience with lunch, a visit to the Sky Tree for panoramic views, a Sumida River Cruise, or the Samurai Museum.

In the afternoon, reconvene with the group and visit Akihabara, Tokyo's vibrant electronics and anime district. You'll have the option to experience a “Maid in Tokyo” café or keep the evening free for independent exploration, with suggestions including Ginza Shopping District, Tokyo Tower, or relaxing at a traditional bathhouse. You can return to the hostel or continue exploring on your own.

Today’s adventure starts with a visit to the Meiji Shrine, a site dedicated to Emperor Meiji, the leader who modernised Japan, ending the era of the samurai and the shogunate. Nestled in a peaceful forested area, the shrine offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Nearby, explore Harajuku - Tokyo’s famous fashion district. Known for its vibrant street style and quirky shops, Harajuku offers a blend of high-end fashion boutiques, second-hand stores. and iconic spots for unique food.

Next, we’ll head to Shibuya Crossing, the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world. Here, we’ll experience the organised chaos of hundreds of people crossing from every direction under the lights of massive billboards and vibrant city sounds. Nearby, we can visit the Hachiko Statue, a memorial to the famously loyal dog that waited for his owner at the station every day.

In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore Tokyo at your leisure or rest. There are many exciting optional activities you can enjoy during this time, including Kartoon Karting - Drive a go-kart around the streets of Tokyo dressed in costume for a thrilling experience!

Today, we'll embark on a journey to Fujikawaguchi, to get up close to the iconic Mount Fuji. The adventure begins early, departing from the hostel around 6:30 AM. The first stop is Arakurayama Sangen Park, a shrine set in the foothills of Mount Fuji, offering serene views of the surrounding area. We'll take a short hike to Tenku no Torii, known as the "Torii Gate by the Sky," where we'll be greeted with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji on clear days—an ideal spot for capturing iconic photos with the mountain as our backdrop.

Next, enjoy a peaceful walk to Mother White’s Waterfall (Haha No Shirataki), a charming waterfall that also offers a great vantage point for stunning views of Mount Fuji. Depending on the time, we may have additional opportunities to explore more of the area.

After a full day of exploring, we'll return to Tokyo for our final night in the city. The evening is yours to relax or enjoy one last night out in Tokyo, perhaps with farewell drinks at a nearby bar.

Tokyo – Kamakura. This morning, we take the train to Kamakura, a coastal city that was Japan's medieval capital.

This afternoon, participate in a calligraphy class held inside a local temple. This cultural experience offers us the chance to learn the art of traditional Japanese writing, and you'll get to keep your own handcrafted artwork as a special memory of your trip.

Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore Kamakura and visit some of the city's many ancient shrines or historical landmarks. Suggested activities include Kotoku-In Temple, Hokokuji Temple or take the time to relax at the beach!

Kamakura – Hakone. Today we travel to Hakone by train and bus. On arrival we enjoy a hike along the Old Tokaido before continuing to stunning Lake Ashi where we’ll have lunch and then board a pirate ship! From the deck of this triple-decker man-of-war you’ll cross the lake’s clear-blue waters and enjoy the spectacular views. We then take the Hakone Ropeway, an epic cable car journey to Oowakudani, a volcanic valley awash with active sulphur vents and hot springs. On a clear day you can gaze at Mount Fuji in all its glory and sample black eggs, a local delicacy coloured by the sulphuric water they’re boiled in.

We have a wonderful afternoon and evening ahead of us, starting with a visit a traditional Japanese outdoor bath – an onsen – where you can spend time soaking in the waters which are meant to have healing properties. This evening, change into your yukuta after a long bathing session, ready to learn about the art of Japanese rice wine, with a sake tasting session.

Hakone – Kyoto. This morning, it’s time to depart Hakone for the nation’s former capital city, Kyoto. Upon arriving at Kyoto Station around, we’ll head to our hostel. After checking in and dropping off your luggage, you’ll join your Adventure Leader for a brief orientation walk along the picturesque Kamo River, offering a peaceful introduction to Kyoto.

You’ll have free time to explore Kyoto independently and enjoy dinner. Suggested activities include Nishihonganji Temple, Shosei-en Garden, Sanjusangendo Temple or visit the unique collectable store, Mandarake.

In the evening, there’s an optional karaoke session where you can sing to your heart's content with unlimited drinks.

Start the day with a visit to Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, one of the largest wooden structures in the world. Afterwards, we visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine. Following the trails – lined with thousands of iconic red torii gates – leads us to a beautiful hike through the foothills and up Mount Inari. You can either choose to join us for a hike to the top or stay a little closer to sea level and explore the local area’s street food offerings.

In the late afternoon, visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Japan's most iconic Buddhist temples and a UNESCO World Heritage site. After the temple visit, the Adventure Leader will take us to Gion for a brief orientation walk, followed by free time for dinner and exploring the area.

While here, you can wander through Pontocho Alley - the Geisha District, watch a performance at Gio Corner or even visit Yasaka Shrine, which is beautifully illuminated with lanterns and lights at night.

Kyoto - Nara - Kyoto. This morning, we take a train to Nara for a half-day visit. The visit includes Todaiji Temple, known for housing one of the world’s largest bronze Buddha statues and being a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as exploring Nara Park, where you'll encounter friendly Kawaii deer. Afterward, you'll have some free time for lunch in Nara before returning to Kyoto.

Upon returning to Kyoto, you’ll have free time for independent exploration. Suggested activities include a Geisha Tea Ceremony, Arashiyama, Kimono rental, or visit the Manga Museum.

Kyoto – Hiroshima. Our final morning in Kyoto begins with a bicycle ride to a Zen temple where we enjoy a meditation session led by a Buddhist monk. Then we visit one of the city’s most iconic buildings, the Golden Pavilion at Kinkaku-ji Temple, whose top two floors are covered in gold leaf. Take time to walk around the lake and marvel at the shimmering golden reflection of the pavilion in the waters and unwind in this calm atmosphere.

The afternoon finds us cycling through Kyoto’s Imperial Park in the heart of the city before reaching the iconic Imperial Palace, the former residence of Japan’s Imperial Family, before the capital and emperor were moved to Tokyo. Stroll through the grounds and admire the beautiful buildings. Later, we continue our journey west and catch the bullet train to Hiroshima. There is an optional group dinner tonight.

Hiroshima, the first place to be hit by one of the two atomic bombs dropped on Japan at the end of World War II. We begin our day with a stop at the Peace Memorial Museum where we uncover the devastation left behind by the world’s first atomic bomb. We’ll see the iconic A-Bomb Dome, one of the very few buildings left standing after the blast and the Children’s Peace Monument, a memorial of the children killed.

This afternoon, take a short ferry trip to Miyajima Island, famous for the giant torii gate which appears to float on water. When the tide is low the gate can be reached on foot. On arrival to the island we make our way to the centuries old Itsukushima Shrine, like the torii gate the main buildings are built over water and connected by pillars above the sea. After some free time to grab lunch, we take the Miyajima Ropeway for spectacular views of the island and back across the water. Returning to Hiroshima to spend the evening at leisure.

Hiroshima – Osaka. This morning, we board the bullet train to our final destination, Osaka. On arrival drop off your luggage, and enjoy a short orientation walk to Shinsaibashi. This vibrant street is ideal for exploring and enjoying some free time for lunch at your own expense. You’ll then have a free afternoon to explore the city on your own. Suggested activities include Osaka Castle, Umeda Shopping Street or the National Museum.

At 6:00 PM, meet your fellow travellers for a memorable farewell dinner in Shinsekai. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, see the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, and capture some great photos. After dinner, return to Shinsaibashi to explore the lively streets adorned with neon lights and take a photo with the iconic Running Man sign. Join your group for a final drink to celebrate the end of your amazing journey.

Today marks the end of your tour in Osaka. Take the morning to say goodbye to your group and reflect on the amazing adventures you’ve shared. Whether you're heading off to your next destination or making your way back home, we hope you’ve enjoyed your time in Japan!

Please contact us to arrange a train back to Tokyo or additional nights in Osaka.