Japanese Cultural Journey Tokyo to Kyoto
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Kick off in Tokyo and zip to Kyoto on the bullet train – two days that blend iconic sights with timeless charm. In Kyoto, expect Fushimi Inari’s vermilion gates, the Imperial Palace and the Golden Pavilion, plus time to wander Gion’s lantern lit lanes. Journey through rural Japan to Tsumago – a preserved post town – for strolling and an included lunch. Continue to Matsumoto to admire the striking Black Crow castle before returning to Tokyo. It’s a compact circuit with variety – rapid rail, classic temples, wooden villages and castle heritage – perfect for travellers short on time.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
2 daysHotel Rating
Accommodation as per the InclusionsStarts
TokyoEnds
TokyoMinimum Age
No minimum ageMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in Japan that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
NoDeparture Transfer
NoTour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Country
JapanTour Style
Group Size
Up to 65 travellers
Min 2 / Max 65
Trip Type
Large Coach Tours
Travel Style
Worldwide Touring
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
Partially Guided
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
These ratings are a general guide and may vary from tour to tour.
Tour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Group Size
Min 2 / Max 65Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Large Coach ToursPassengers
$1,670.00
Free eSIM included
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Places You'll See
Tokyo
Kyoto
Tsumago
Matsumoto
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Tokyo - Kyoto
We board the early morning bullet train to Kyoto, covering almost 500 kilometres in a little over two hours. The day is devoted to exploring Kyoto – former capital from 794 to 1868 and seat of the Imperial Court – spared from bombing in World War II and renowned for its remarkable artistic heritage, as well as for hosting the 1997 signing of the Kyoto Protocol. We visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion set amid magnificent gardens. We then wander through Gion, Kyoto’s vibrant traditional district celebrated for its geishas and lively atmosphere, after which you have free time.
Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.
Day 2 - Kyoto - Tsumago - Matsumoto - Tokyo
We travel through beautiful rural scenery to Tsumago, a charming wooden village considered one of Japan’s most picturesque, where you have free time to stroll and soak up its traditional atmosphere. We pause for an included lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Matsumoto to visit its impressive castle from the sixteenth century, nicknamed the Crow for its black colour. After the visit you have free time to explore the town. In the afternoon we depart for Tokyo, arriving by day’s end. Our journey then concludes – please check your flight time in case you require an additional night. The departure transfer to the airport is not included, and our guide will recommend the best public transport options to suit your plans.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Pre and Post Tour Accommodation
Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.
Post-Tour Accommodation - Tokyo
Pre-Tour Accommodation - Tokyo
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Confirmation of the hotels used may not be available until 48 hours before the tour departs.
If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Shared' prices are for solo travellers who are happy to share with another solo traveller of the same sex in a twin room - a single room will be provided at no additional cost if there are no suitable travellers to share with.
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