Tokyo, Kyoto and the Japanese Alps

Welcome to Japan. After clearing customs, you’ll be transferred to your hotel by shared shuttle bus. The rest of the day is yours to relax and explore at your leisure. In the afternoon, we’ll provide all the details you need about the start of your tour.
Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour.

We begin the day with a guided tour of Tokyo lasting around five hours, offering a vivid glimpse into the city’s blend of dynamic modernity and tranquil tradition. Our first stop is Zojoji Temple, where you’ll see hundreds of stone Jizo statues—guardians of children—decorated with knitted hats, bibs and pinwheels, all framed by a stunning view of Tokyo Tower. We then visit Shibuya Crossing, reputed to be the world’s busiest intersection, before heading to Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife. Travelling by bus, we continue along the elegant Omotesando Avenue and explore the scenic grounds of the Imperial Palace, including a visit to the famous Nijubashi Bridge. Next, we drive through Akihabara, known as “Electric City” and the heart of Japan’s manga and anime culture. Admission to Tokyo Skytree is included, where we ascend Japan’s tallest structure to enjoy panoramic city views. Our final stop is Asakusa, where we explore Sensoji Temple and the lively Nakamise shopping street. We then return to the hotel to refresh before meeting our guide again at 6:30 p.m. Together, we take the subway (tickets included) to Shinjuku, a bustling district where we stroll through its vibrant streets before dining at a local restaurant (included). After dinner, we return to the hotel by subway accompanied by the guide. Please note that the schedule may vary depending on Tokyo Skytree’s admission times or weather conditions, with alternative viewpoints arranged if necessary.

We’ll depart Tokyo early in the morning, travelling by bullet train to Kyoto—a journey of just over two hours covering nearly 500 kilometres. Kyoto, Japan’s former capital from 794 to 1868, is renowned for its well-preserved cultural heritage, having escaped damage during World War II. It’s also famous as the site where the Kyoto Protocol was signed in 1997. During our full day in the city, we’ll visit some of its most iconic landmarks including the striking Fushimi Inari Shrine, the historic Imperial Palace, and Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, set within beautiful gardens. Afterwards, you’ll have time to explore Gion, Kyoto’s traditional district known for its geisha culture and vibrant streets, before enjoying some free time to wander at your leisure.

We set off for Tsumago, travelling through picturesque countryside to this charming village known for its traditional wooden houses. You’ll have free time to explore at your own pace, and lunch is included. Afterwards, we continue to Matsumoto, a bustling city where we visit the remarkable 16th-century castle, nicknamed “The Crow” for its striking dark exterior. Following the visit, you have free time to discover Matsumoto before we make our way to Nagano for the night.

In Nagano, we’ll explore Zenko-ji Temple, a renowned pilgrimage site housing Japan’s oldest Buddhist image. You’ll also participate in the Gomakuyo ceremony, a traditional ritual to invite good fortune. Afterwards, we’ll travel into the Japanese Alps, passing through stunning mountain scenery to reach Jigokudani Monkey Park. Here, we’ll walk along forest trails and by hot springs where Japanese macaques bathe in the warm waters. Continuing through high-altitude landscapes, including views of semi-active volcanoes, we’ll arrive in Kusatsu, a charming hot-spring town with a lively central square. We’ll take a gentle stroll through the city park, which features open-air hot springs, followed by some free time for lunch. Our journey then leads to Ikaho, another picturesque hot-spring town famous for its traditional stone stairways. We’ll wander through the old town before spending the night in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, where a local-style dinner is included and we recommend enjoying the hot-spring baths. Please note that in autumn, the movement of the monkeys can be unpredictable, which may affect the visit to the monkey park, and visits to Kusatsu may be cancelled from November to April due to weather conditions.

We’ll travel to Nikko, a remarkable town rich in cultural heritage. There, we’ll visit the impressive Nikko-Toshogu Temple, famous for its ‘room with the sound of a dragon.’ We’ll also explore the peaceful Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, a site of great historical significance. Afterwards, we’ll take a walk along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, where hundreds of Jizo statues quietly line the riverbanks. You’ll then have some free time to explore the town centre before we return to Tokyo, arriving around 6:30 p.m. The tour concludes here, leaving you with lasting memories. Please check your departure details in case you require an extra night’s stay; while the transfer to the airport is not included, our guide will offer advice on the most convenient public transport options.