Tokyo, Osaka & Kyoto Discovery - 9 Days

Welcome to Tokyo! On arrival at either Haneda or Narita airports, an included transfer takes you to the hotel (transfer available at 12:00 or 19:00). You're free to relax, catch up on some sleep or head out and explore for the rest of the day.

Please note: Shared group transfers are included on this tour and offered at the times stated. You can also book optional private transfers should you be arriving at a different time, or you can make your own way to the start hotel on day 1.

Meet our English-speaking guide and set off to explore Tokyo using the city’s legendary public transport system. We’ll ride the iconic Yamanote Line and get a taste of daily life in the capital, with our guide ensuring you avoid the worst of rush hour.

Our first stop is the Meiji Shrine, a peaceful forest oasis in the heart of the city and one of Tokyo’s most popular wedding locations. From here, we stroll down Omotesando Boulevard, often referred to as Japan’s “Champs-Élysées,” where we’ll pass the striking Omotesando Hills, a modern architectural gem designed by Tadao Ando.

Next, we head to Asakusa to explore the traditional charm of Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple. This is your chance to soak up the atmosphere of old Edo and snap a photo with the towering Tokyo Skytree rising in the background.

We end the day at the iconic Shibuya Crossing, where you can feel the full energy of Tokyo as you join the flow of thousands of pedestrians moving in every direction at once - an unforgettable scene and a true symbol of the city.

Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace in Tokyo - whether you prefer to dive deeper into the city or simply relax. For those looking to explore beyond the capital, we offer an optional full-day excursion to Nikko, accompanied by an English-speaking guide.

This day trip takes you to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nikko. You'll visit the ornate Toshogu Shrine, the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, and the elegant Taiyuin Mausoleum. Surrounded by forested hills, these sites offer a peaceful contrast to the bustle of Tokyo.

A traditional Japanese lunch is included on the optional tour, and you’ll return to the city in the evening.

You have another free day in Tokyo, or you can join our optional full-day excursion to Mt. Fuji and Hakone, travelling by shared bus or train with an English-speaking guide. The journey takes you to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station - or as high up as vehicles are permitted, where you can take in the views and crisp mountain air.

From there, continue to Hakone, a scenic national park famous for its hot springs. Enjoy a peaceful cruise across a lake surrounded by volcanic landscapes, followed by a cable car ride offering panoramic views across the region. A Japanese-style lunch is included, and you’ll return to Tokyo in the evening with time to relax or explore the city by night.

Tokyo - Osaka. Today you will travel to Osaka by Shinkansen bullet train, a journey of around three hours. Your e-ticket and seat reservation will be delivered straight to your smartphone, making the process smooth and easy - no need to queue at the ticket counter.

Upon arrival at Shin-Osaka Station, take the subway to the city centre and step into the electric atmosphere of Dotombori. This vibrant district is famous for its neon lights, bustling streets, and endless selection of shops, bars, and eateries.

In the evening, enjoy an included dinner with a classic Osakan dish: Okonomiyaki. This savoury pancake, made with cabbage and a variety of optional fillings, is a must-try in Osaka.

Today we delve into historic Osaka on an included guided tour led by an English-speaking local guide. Our day begins with a visit to Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest shrines, known for its striking arched bridge. From there, we head to Osaka Castle. While the interior is modern and houses a museum, the castle grounds remain steeped in history, offering a glimpse into the architecture and atmosphere of the 1600s.

In the afternoon, we explore Shinsekai, a nostalgic district with retro charm, colourful street life, and the landmark Tsutenkaku Tower rising above it all.

Osaka - Kyoto - Osaka. Today we enjoy a full-day excursion to Kyoto, travelling by coach or train, accompanied by our English-speaking guide as we explore the spiritual and cultural heart of Japan.

We begin at Higashi Honganji, one of the world’s largest wooden structures and an important centre of Shin Buddhism. From there, we visit Sanjusangendo, home to 1,001 golden statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy – a breathtaking sight. Next is Kiyomizu-dera, where we step onto the famous wooden terrace for sweeping views over the city.

Our journey continues through the charming cobbled lanes of Ninenzaka and Sannezaka, lined with traditional teahouses and souvenir shops, before finishing the day at Yasaka Shrine in the heart of Gion, Kyoto’s famed geisha district. We return to Osaka in the afternoon.

Enjoy a free day to explore Osaka at your own pace, or join our optional full-day trip to Hiroshima and Miyajima by Shinkansen.

If you join the optional tour, you will hop aboard the world-famous bullet train for a smooth and scenic two-hour journey to Hiroshima. On arrival, visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a moving tribute to the events of 1945 and a powerful symbol of peace. You then take a local train and ferry to the picturesque island of Miyajima, known for its iconic Itsukushima Shrine, which appears to float on the sea during high tide.

A traditional Japanese lunch is included before you return to Osaka in the evening.

Our tour comes to an end after breakfast and hotel check out. A complimentary group airport transfer is offered at 7:00 or 12:00.