Japan Highlights From Tokyo to Osaka (3 Star)

Upon arrival in Tokyo, we’ll meet you in the airport arrivals hall and transfer you by shared car to your hotel in the city centre. Shared transfers operate until 20:30 – if your flight arrives later, please make your own way to the hotel or arrange a private pick-up with us.

After meeting your guide, we begin at Tsukiji Outer Market (since 1935) – “Tokyo’s Kitchen” – where you can sample Japanese snacks such as tamagoyaki omelettes while soaking up the lively morning atmosphere.

Next, we escape the bustle at Meiji Jingu Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji (1852–1912) and his empress. Set within a vast man-made forest, it offers a tranquil setting for learning about Shinto rituals. You may even glimpse a traditional wedding procession.

We then continue to the Imperial Palace Outer Garden, home to landmarks such as Nijubashi Bridge and Fujimi Tower, blending Edo-period architecture with serene gardens. In spring, this is one of Tokyo’s most picturesque cherry blossom spots.

Our afternoon visit takes us to Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Passing through the Kaminarimon Gate, we stroll along Nakamise-dori Street, lined with shops selling treats such as matcha ice cream and taiyaki. At the temple itself, the vermilion main hall and five-storey pagoda stand in striking contrast to the lively streets around them.

Return with your guide to the hotel for an evening at leisure.

Tokyo - Hakone - Mt Fuji - Tokyo. Today we take the bullet train to Odawara, then continue on the historic Hakone Tozan Train through scenic mountains. In summer, the railway is lined with hydrangeas in bloom.

From Sounzan, we ride the ropeway to Owakudani Valley, an active volcanic zone with steaming vents and sulphur springs. Here, you can try a black egg boiled in the hot springs. On clear days, enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Fuji.

We continue by ropeway to Lake Ashi for a 30-minute pirate ship cruise, with vistas of the lake, Hakone Shrine’s red torii gate, and – weather permitting – Mt. Fuji.

After sightseeing, return to Tokyo by train.

Tokyo - Kyoto. This morning, take the bullet train to Kyoto (tickets arranged in advance). If travelling with heavy luggage, we recommend using Japan’s reliable luggage delivery service.

On arrival, meet your local guide and begin at the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), once a shogun’s villa and now a Zen temple famed for its gold-leaf upper floors.

Next, explore Kiyomizu-dera (Pure Water Temple), approached via the charming Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka lanes. From its wooden stage, enjoy sweeping views of Kyoto. Behind the hall lies the Jishujinja Shrine, known for its “love stones” that visitors cross with eyes closed to seek good fortune in romance.

We end the day with a walking tour of Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district. Wander past Yasaka Shrine and atmospheric alleys lined with teahouses. After dark, you may spot geishas on their way to evening engagements. Return to your hotel independently by taxi if you stay later.

Kyoto - Nara - Kyoto. We start at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the hillside.

Next, we travel to Nara Park, home to over 1,000 sacred deer. Then we visit Todai-ji (Great Eastern Temple), housing a colossal Buddha statue and once built with contributions from across Japan.

We continue to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, noted for its lanterns, and stroll to Naramachi, the city’s preserved merchant district. Here, we stop at Naramachi Lattice House, a narrow yet deep townhouse reflecting Edo-era tax rules, offering a glimpse into historic life.

Return with your guide to Kyoto.

Kyoto - Osaka. We begin at Nijo Castle, former Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa shoguns. Its lavish interiors, including murals of tigers painted without ever seeing one, showcase the power of the shogunate.

By train, we continue to Osaka. At Kuromon Market, you can sample snacks such as takoyaki and grilled seafood for lunch (at own expense).

Next, we explore Osaka Castle, originally built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and rebuilt in the 20th century. Inside, displays trace the castle’s history, while the top floor offers panoramic city views.

Our day ends at Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi, Osaka’s bustling districts for food and shopping, lit by neon billboards. After the tour, either return with your guide or stay longer to enjoy dinner independently before walking back to your nearby hotel.

Check out and make your own way to Kansai International Airport. Your guide will be happy to advise on the best route depending on your flight. If you are returning to Tokyo for onward travel, we can assist with booking train or plane tickets.