Tokyo & Kyoto

A 9-Day Japanese Cultural Adventure

Overview of the trip

Experience the best of Japan’s culture, cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes on this 9-day journey through Tokyo and Kyoto. From neon-lit streets to tranquil temples, this trip gives travelers an authentic taste of Japan’s rich history and fast-paced modern life. Explore Tokyo’s bustling neighborhoods and savor local delicacies, then step back in time in Kyoto, where ancient traditions are beautifully preserved. Perfect for those wanting a deep dive into Japanese culture, this adventure brings the best of old and new Japan together.

What's Included:

Accommodations: 4 nights in a luxury hotel in Tokyo and 4 nights in a traditional ryokan (inn) in Kyoto.
Meals: Daily breakfasts, three traditional Japanese dinners, and a sushi-making lunch.
Transport: High-speed bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto, airport transfers, and private transfers for scheduled tours.
Experiences: Guided city tours, tea ceremony, sushi-making class, visit to a sumo wrestling training stable, scenic Arashiyama bamboo forest walk, and a traditional onsen experience.
Professional Guides: English-speaking local guides throughout Tokyo and Kyoto.
Entrance Fees: All entrance fees for temples, museums, and cultural experiences included in the itinerary.

Exclusions:

Round-trip airfare to Tokyo/Kyoto.
Entry visa to Tokyo/Kyoto.
Travel insurance.
COVID-19 tests upon arrival and departure.
Beverages at meals, tips, and personal expenses.

1 Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Afternoon: Arrive at Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda Airport, where you’ll be met and transferred to your luxury hotel in central Tokyo.
Evening: Join the group for a welcome dinner at a stylish izakaya (Japanese pub), featuring small dishes and drinks to kick off the journey with local flavors.

2 Day 2: Tokyo City Highlights

Morning: Begin with a guided tour of Tokyo’s highlights, starting with the iconic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo’s oldest temple. Wander through Nakamise Street to browse traditional snacks and souvenirs.
Afternoon: Head to the Meiji Shrine, nestled within a forested park, to experience a traditional Shinto atmosphere. Next, visit the bustling streets of Harajuku and Omotesando for trendy boutiques, cafes, and people-watching.
Evening: Free time to explore Tokyo’s nightlife or try one of the city’s famous ramen shops.

3 Day 3: Tsukiji Fish Market & Sushi-Making Class

Morning: Take an early morning trip to the famous Tsukiji Fish Market, where you’ll see incredible fresh seafood and sample local treats.
Late Morning: Join a sushi chef for a hands-on sushi-making class, learning the art of selecting ingredients and rolling sushi.
Lunch: Savor your creations as a delicious lunch.
Afternoon: Relax back at the hotel or explore Tokyo on your own, perhaps visiting the serene Hamarikyu Gardens or shopping in Ginza.

4 Day 4: Sumo Wrestling Stable & Shibuya

Morning: Visit a sumo wrestling training stable to watch wrestlers practice their time-honored sport up close, learning about sumo’s significance in Japanese culture.
Afternoon: Head to Shibuya for lunch and marvel at the famous Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest intersection. Visit the Hachiko statue, a beloved Tokyo landmark.
Evening: Enjoy dinner on your own or explore the Shibuya or Shinjuku districts, both bustling with neon lights, karaoke bars, and endless dining options.

5 Day 5: Travel to Kyoto by Bullet Train

Morning: Experience the comfort and speed of Japan’s Shinkansen (bullet train), traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto.
Afternoon: Arrive in Kyoto and check into a traditional ryokan, where you’ll be welcomed with tea and Japanese hospitality.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at the ryokan, a multi-course meal showcasing seasonal ingredients and Kyoto culinary traditions.

6 Day 6: Temples and Tea Ceremony

Morning: Start the day with a visit to the Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf, set against a tranquil pond.
Late Morning: Visit the Ryoan-ji Temple to admire its famous rock garden, known for its simplicity and meditative qualities.
Afternoon: Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a Kyoto teahouse, learning the significance and rituals behind this cultural art.
Evening: Dinner at your leisure or take an optional night walking tour through the historic Gion district, known for its preserved teahouses and geisha culture.

7 Day 7: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Onsen Experience

Morning: Venture to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a magical forest walk surrounded by towering bamboo. Visit the Tenryu-ji Temple and its picturesque gardens.
Afternoon: Explore nearby shops and cafes or take a scenic boat ride along the Hozu River.
Evening: Relax with a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring) experience. Unwind in natural thermal waters, perfect for recharging after days of exploring.

8 Day 8: Fushimi Inari Shrine and Nishiki Market

Morning: Visit the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the mountainside. Take a short hike through this scenic pathway, with views of Kyoto below.
Afternoon: Head to Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s vibrant food market, where you’ll sample local snacks, street food, and unique Japanese ingredients.
Evening: Farewell dinner in a Kyoto restaurant, celebrating the flavors of the region and memories made over the past week.

9 Day 9: Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast at the ryokan before private transfers to Kansai International Airport for your departure.

Additional Information

Packing Tips: Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a variety of clothing layers for temple visits and outdoor activities, and a light jacket or scarf for the evenings. Traditional attire is provided at the ryokan, so save luggage space for souvenirs!
Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with local customs, such as bowing as a sign of respect and being mindful of noise in public spaces. Respectful behavior, especially in temples and shrines, is highly appreciated.
Connectivity: Pocket Wi-Fi can be rented if you want internet access on the go. Japan is generally tech-savvy, but some rural areas may have limited connectivity.

This Tokyo & Kyoto itinerary blends Japan’s timeless traditions with its dynamic modernity, making it a well-rounded cultural adventure perfect for first-time visitors or Japan enthusiasts alike.

Tokyo & Kyoto

Overview of the trip

What's Included:

Exclusions:

1

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

2

Day 2: Tokyo City Highlights

3

Day 3: Tsukiji Fish Market & Sushi-Making Class

4

Day 4: Sumo Wrestling Stable & Shibuya

5

Day 5: Travel to Kyoto by Bullet Train

6

Day 6: Temples and Tea Ceremony

7

Day 7: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Onsen Experience

8

Day 8: Fushimi Inari Shrine and Nishiki Market

9

Day 9: Departure

Additional Information

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