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The Japan Highlights: Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto tour is a perfect journey through Japan’s most iconic destinations, offering a balance of modern excitement, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Experience the dynamic energy of Tokyo, unwind amid the scenic landscapes of Hakone, and immerse yourself in the timeless traditions and historic temples of Kyoto. This tour captures the essence of Japan in a seamless and memorable adventure.
Japan is a country of contrasts, where cutting-edge cities meet tranquil natural landscapes and centuries-old traditions. Begin in Tokyo, a bustling metropolis renowned for its futuristic skyline, shopping, and vibrant neighborhoods. Continue to Hakone, a serene region famous for its hot springs, stunning views of Mount Fuji, and picturesque lakes. Finally, explore Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart, where ancient temples, traditional tea houses, and serene gardens transport you back in time. This journey ensures a rich blend of modernity, nature, and heritage, making it an unforgettable Japanese experience.
Itineraries
Day 1
Arrive in Tokyo
Arrive in Tokyo, a vibrant city that's both ultra-high-tech and captivating, and check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore. We recommend booking flights that arrive by 4 PM at the latest. (Transfers from the airport to the hotel with group bus transportation, and in case of multiple arrivals, two transfers per group.)
Overnight: Tokyo
Day 2
Half-Day Tokyo City Tour
Spend the day exploring Tokyo's highlights with our professional guide. Take in the city's unique blend of traditional and modern vibes. Start by visiting the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine, located in a beautiful forest area that honors Emperor Meiji, the first Emperor of modern Japan, and his Empress. Next, head to the majestic Asakusa Kannon Temple (Sensoji), which houses a golden image of Kannon, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, and features a large red and black paper lantern at the entrance. Stroll along Nakamise, a centuries-old shopping street offering everything from souvenirs to authentic Edo-style crafts. Then, visit the Tokyo Imperial Palace, a vast park with stunning gardens that's home to Japan's Imperial family. Check out the famous Nijubashi bridge, which leads to the main entrance of the imperial palace. Return to the hotel and enjoy the rest of your day at your own pace.
Overnight: Tokyo
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3
Half-Day Tour in Tokyo - Kamakura Tour
You've got the day to explore Tokyo. As a top global city, Tokyo is famous for its food and a wide range of art and fashion spots. For a different city view, take a stroll in beautiful Ueno Park and check out the Tokyo National Museum, which has a fascinating collection of Asian artifacts. Consider joining the optional Kamakura tour. Head to historic Kamakura, home to Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. Once the capital of Japan, it was established by the Minamoto clan in 1192. Your tour includes stops at Hokokuji Temple, located in the hills of eastern Kamakura, and Jomyoji Temple, ranked fifth among Kamakura's five great Zen temples. Enjoy traditional Japanese tea in a sacred setting. Then, spend some time exploring before returning to Tokyo. Overnight: Tokyo
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4
Lake Ashi Cruise, Owakudani Valley, Hakone
This morning, check out and head south from Tokyo to Hakone, Japan's most famous national park, and take in the stunning scenery along the way. Start your day with a relaxing cruise on Lake Ashi's calm waters. After lunch on your own, enjoy a gondola ride* on the Hakone Ropeway, which takes you to the extraordinary volcanic zone in Owakudani Valley. Here, bubbling pools cook eggs in hot, sulfur-filled waters, and it's said to add at least seven years to your life. Next, visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, a 200-acre hillside park surrounded by majestic mountains and lush valleys. Explore the museum's extensive collection of sculptures from the 19th and 20th centuries, featuring works by Japanese and Western artists. Then, head to your hotel in the Hakone area and enjoy dinner with your fellow travellers.
*Note: Weather conditions around Mt. Fuji can be unpredictable, and clouds may block the mountain's view. Sometimes, poor weather prevents cable car or lake cruise operations in Hakone.
Overnight: Hakone Area
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5
Bullet Train to Kyoto
After breakfast, check out and head to Mishima station for your bullet train ride to historic Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan and home to the country's most treasured imperial history. Upon arrival, take a short walking tour and enjoy some free time for lunch on your own before checking into your hotel. In the afternoon, the Kyoto City Tour begins with a visit to the famous gold-gilded Kinkakuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Golden Pavilion." The temple, built in the 14th century by the Ashikaga clan, sits on a reflective pond surrounded by trees. Next, explore Nishiki Market, a street lined with over 100 shops and restaurants. Here, you’ll find Kyoto specialties like Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood, fresh produce, and seasonal foods. The tour wraps up with a walk in Pontocho, an old entertainment district filled with traditional restaurants, bars, and home to Geisha tea houses. You can finish the day with some independent exploration in Gion, Kyoto's most famous Geisha district, or head back to the hotel.
Overnight: Kyoto
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6
Full Day in Kyoto (Free Day for Leisure)
Spend the day at your own pace in Kyoto, exploring the city on your own or join the optional Kyoto & Nara tour.
Optional: Kyoto & Nara Tour (AM)
Overnight: Kyoto
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7
Departure from Japan.
Head to the Osaka airport for your flight home. Osaka Airport is about a one-hour drive from Kyoto.
Meals: Breakfast.
6 nights' accommodations
3 nights Tokyo
1 night Hakone Area
2 nights in Kyoto
Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
Hotel porterage
All transfers are included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates. High-Speed Bullet Train: Mishima-Kyoto
All Tours as mentioned in the itinerary
7 meals: 6 breakfasts, 1 dinner
Services of an English-speaking tour manager throughout
Entrance fees per itinerary
International Air Ticket.
City Tax to be paid at the Hotel.
Optional Activities.
Personal expenses.
Travel Insurance.
Lunches and Dinner.
Tips.
Drinks.
Other services are not mentioned in what's included.
No, U.S. citizens do not need a visa for short-term tourism stays of up to 90 days. However, your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
The most popular times are spring (March–May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September–November) for colorful foliage. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are ideal for skiing in northern regions like Hokkaido.
The official currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY). U.S. dollars are not widely accepted, so it’s best to exchange money at banks, airports, or use ATMs. Credit cards are accepted in many urban areas, but cash is essential for smaller shops and rural areas.
Yes. Japan is one of the safest countries in the world for travelers. Petty theft is rare, but usual precautions like securing valuables and being aware of your surroundings are recommended.
English is commonly spoken in hotels, major train stations, and tourist areas, but less so in rural regions. It’s helpful to learn a few basic Japanese phrases or use a translation app for smoother communication.
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