Upon your arrival at the airport in Tokyo, a sign with your name on it will be held by an English-speaking assistant who will be there to greet you. This assistant will then introduce you to your driver for a comfortable and pleasant transfer back to your hotel.

Today's private-guided tour of Tokyo will introduce you to the imperial side of the city. After meeting your guide at your hotel, you will take a quick ride on Tokyo's efficient public transportation to begin your tour at Meiji Shrine. This shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and is one of Japan's most famous shrines, known for traditional Japanese weddings. Next, you will visit the Imperial Palace, located on the former site of Edo Castle. The park surrounding the palace is in the center of Tokyo and features large moats and stone walls. It is currently the official residence of Japan's Imperial Family. Adjacent to the palace is the Nihonbashi district, which was the center of trade and business during the Edo period. Here, you can enjoy shopping at the original stores of famous traditional food purveyors and try delicious Japanese rice crackers or sample green tea and high-grade nori at Yamamotoyama. Your guide will then accompany you back to your hotel.

Our Destination Experts recommend taking some time to acclimate to the new time zone, city, country, culture, and way of life when traveling to Japan. This will ensure that you are refreshed and ready to fully experience all that Japan has to offer. Take this day to explore the city at your own pace or rest at your accommodations. If you prefer to start exploring immediately, our Destination Experts can help you choose the best tour for your first full day in Japan.

Shinjuku, a neon-lit ward, is filled with energy and innovation. It offers thrilling entertainment, atmospheric eateries, lavish nightlife, opulent hotel bars, and famous karaoke rooms. Immerse yourself in this futuristic city that has thrills around the clock. Get exclusive insider suggestions from your Destination Expert.

Your guide will meet you in your hotel lobby today for an afternoon of exploration in three vibrant centers for fashion and pop culture in Tokyo. Start by visiting Shibuya, a bustling shopping district known for its cutting-edge fashion. It is also famous for its 5-way 'scramble' crosswalk. Then, head to Harajuku and the famous Takeshita dori (Cat Street), a mecca of fashion for every style. The youth that gathers here has historically set trends for major fashion houses abroad. Finally, arrive at Akihabara, also known as 'Electric Town', which gained fame for its electronic shops in the 1970s. It is now the center of otaku (diehard fan) culture with anime and manga shops and themed cafes.

You have two options to end your day. You can visit a fast-paced 'Game Centre', which is the Japanese version of arcades with multi-floors and various games. Or, you can choose to visit Kanda Myojin Shrine for a calming end to your afternoon. The shrine, founded in 730, is often overlooked by visitors but is popular among technophiles due to its proximity to Akihabara. It plays an important part in Japanese gaming, anime, and technology.

Let your guide know your preference for the end of your tour.

In the morning, meet your private guide at your hotel. Depart for Hakone National Park, one of Japan’s famous sites near Mt. Fuji. Start the day by transferring to Shinjuku Station and taking the 90-minute ‘Romance Car’ journey to Hakone. Transfer to Gora Station and continue the adventure by riding a cable-car to the Hakone Ropeway. Experience the iconic Owakudani, an active volcanic site, with steam rising from the mountain and thermal water grazing just below the rocky façade at high temperatures. Take a moment to spot Mt. Fuji before trying the famous black eggs boiled in the sulfuric hot springs, believed to increase longevity. Descend the mountain on the ropeway and embark on a pirate ship on Lake Ashi. Enjoy the scenic views of the mountains and, on a clear day, even catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji. Finally, say goodbye to Hakone as your guide accompanies you by bus to Odawara for your return bullet train journey to Tokyo.

Relax in the mineral-rich waters of the public onsen at Takayama Green Hotel after your train station transfer. The hotel's natural onsen offers beautiful views of a Japanese garden, creating a serene atmosphere for you to unwind. Experience the soothing effects of this open-air bath as you let go of your daily stress and travel fatigue. Don't forget to visit the rest area to fully embrace the tranquil ambiance for ultimate relaxation. Remember, swimwear is not allowed in public onsens in Japan, and there are separate baths for men and women.

Discover the charm of Takayama, an old merchant town steeped in tradition. Take a half-day tour with a private guide to explore the town's rich food history and culture. Takayama, located in the mountainous Gifu prefecture, is renowned for its well-preserved houses from the Edo period. Its narrow streets and historical architecture have earned it the nickname "Small Kyoto." The town is also famous for its stunning annual festivals, Sanno Matsuri and Hachiman Matsuri, which are considered among Japan's most beautiful. Delve into the fascinating shops of Takayama, where you can find and buy a wide range of traditional goods. Gain insight into the many charms of this culturally rich Japanese locale.

Experience the history of Takayama as you explore an ancient merchant town filled with tradition. The city's old town, Sanmachi-dori, has been meticulously preserved from the Edo Period when it flourished as a prosperous hub for merchants. Here, you will find traditional architecture and storefronts, providing a glimpse into the past. The historic district is home to numerous shops and stalls, offering a variety of goods. It is the perfect place to indulge in old-fashioned Japanese sweets, traditional crafts, and local specialties such as mitarashi dango rice balls and skewered Hida beef. Sannomachi Street, lined with old homes, shops, coffee houses, and sake breweries, is a must-visit. One notable site is the beautiful Takayama Jinya, a historic building that once served as the city's government office during the Edo Period. Due to its valuable timber resources, Takayama was under direct control of the shogun at that time. Don't miss the chance to visit the historic sake breweries, easily identified by the sugidama hanging over their entrances, made of cedar branches.

Discover the sacred sites and festive atmosphere of Takayama on a guided adventure. Start with a serene stroll along the Higashiyama Walking Course, a peaceful route that winds through the temple area and Shiroyama Park. Along the way, admire traditional temples, shrines, the remnants of Takayama's former castle, and glimpses of everyday life in this historic rural town. Continue to Matsuri no Mori, a museum devoted to the annual Takayama Festival. Renowned as one of Japan's most beautiful festivals, the museum displays miniature and life-size replicas of the floats that steal the show every year. Explore the collection of enormous taiko drums, claimed to be the largest in the world. Immerse yourself in the lively ambiance and embrace Takayama's vibrant cultural heritage.

Take a private vehicle to meet your driver for a train station transfer.

Embark on a train journey from Takayama Station to Kanazawa Station, with a transfer in central Toyama. The duration of the train ride is approximately 2.5 hours.

Meet your driver for a train station transfer, using a private vehicle.

Experience a guided exploration of Kanazawa's stunning green retreats and discover the art of mindfulness. Begin your tour at Kenrokuen Garden, renowned as one of Japan's top three celebrated gardens. The name "Kenroku" symbolizes the flawless fusion of beauty found in this marvelous paradise, which encompasses elements of seclusion, spaciousness, and abundant water. Stroll from the expansive gardens to the charming backstreets of Kanazawa, leading you to the remarkable D.T. Suzuki Museum. This minimalist-designed establishment pays tribute to the life, writings, and ideas of the philosopher born in Kanazawa, who introduced Zen Buddhism to the Western world. The museum's small garden reflects the principles of Zen philosophy, encouraging visitors to practice mindfulness and meditation by the tranquil water mirror garden. This extraordinary journey through Kanazawa's serenity concludes with a private transfer back to your hotel.

Discover Kanazawa’s ties to the samurai at Kanazawa Castle Park, the Kanazawa Noh Museum, and Nagamachi Samurai District. Marvel at the castle's remains and learn about its significance. Explore the Noh Museum to see costumes and learn about the theater style's protection by samurai. Visit the Samurai District to see traditional residences, including the Nomura Clan Samurai Home. Enjoy a day at leisure to explore Kanazawa Castle, Nagamachi's Samurai District, and Higashichaya Old Town, home to Geisha districts and charming alleyways.

Embark on a full-day adventure in Toyama prefecture to experience Japan's traditional and rural history. With a private guide, leave Kanazawa and head to the town of Inami, known for its wood carving. Explore Yokamachi Street, home to over 120 workshops and 300 craftsmen. Marvel at the sculptors at work and admire the impressive handiwork. Visit Zuisenji Temple, the birthplace of Inami's wood carving tradition. Enjoy the intricately-carved décor and participate in a wood carving workshop to create your own sake cup. Visit a local sake brewery to sample the rice beverage. Continue your journey to the historic village of Ainokura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the village surrounded by picturesque mountain scenery and see the traditional Gassho-zukuri style farmhouses. Visit a folk museum to learn more about Gassho-zukuri. Conclude your tour with a private transfer back to your Kanazawa hotel.

Have a private vehicle for a train station transfer when traveling from Kanazawa to Kyoto aboard the Limited Express Thunderbird, which takes about 2 and a half hours. A local English-speaking assistant will be there to help you transfer to/from Kyoto train station to your nearby hotel, just a 4-5 minute walk away.

Start your day by meeting your guide at the hotel lobby and taking a stroll through Miyagawa-cho, one of Kyoto's geisha districts. Then, continue to Hanamikoji Street in Gion, the main street known for its traditional restaurants and Japanese tea rooms. Keep an eye out for geishas or maikos while exploring the area. Visit Kennin-ji temple, the city's oldest Zen temple, which has a beautiful Japanese rock garden and famous artwork. End the tour at Yasaka Shrine, a Shinto shrine that connects Gion and the Higashiyama District. After the tour, you can choose to explore the shops and cafes of Higashiyama or return to your hotel with the help of your guide.

Today, you will explore some of Kyoto's most famous sites. Meet your guide at your hotel and travel by public transportation to Arashiyama, a popular district at the base of the Western mountains. Start your tour at Tenryu-ji Temple Garden, ranked as one of Kyoto's top Zen temples. Experience the garden's combination of aristocratic tradition and Zen culture, showcasing the beauty of each season. Next, visit Daikaku-ji Temple, originally an imperial villa that was later converted into a temple in 876 AD. Surrounded by one of Japan's oldest artificial lakes, the temple offers a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere. Afterwards, proceed to Kinkaku-ji and Ginkaku-ji, two of Kyoto's most renowned temples. Kinkaku-ji, known as the "Golden Pavilion," stands out above its reflecting pond in a mesmerizing manner. Ginkaku-ji Temple features stunning halls and gardens, offering a breathtaking view of the entire temple complex. At the conclusion of the tour, your guide will accompany you back to your hotel.

Begin your day by meeting your guide at the hotel and then take a short train ride to Nara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Kyoto. Nara was Japan's first capital and held power for 74 years in the 8th century. It was a cultural powerhouse and is now home to many incredible historical landmarks. Start your exploration at Todaiji Temple, the largest wooden building in the world. Admire the massive gateway and the beautiful grounds. Inside, marvel at the ornate details and the world's largest bronze Buddha statue. Afterward, visit the renowned Kasuga Taisha shrine, known for its brightness and beauty. Explore the hallways filled with donated lanterns. Before heading back to Kyoto, take a stroll through Nara Park, a national treasure where deer freely roam. Your guide will accompany you back to the hotel in Kyoto.

Experience Japan's national beverage in the serene waterways of Fushimi, surrounded by traditional sake museums and breweries. Your guide will lead you and a small group through the iconic red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, up to the main complex on Mt. Inari. Afterwards, your guide will accompany you to the Fushimi Sake District, where you can learn about the history and brewing process of sake, and enjoy a sake tasting at a museum. Following the tasting, join the group on a stroll to the Fushimi shopping district, where you can sample up to 80 different types of sake. Please note that the tour will conclude at the Fushimi Shopping District in the south end of the city.

Experience the convenience of a private driver transferring you from Kyoto to Osaka's Kansai Airport (KIX).