Welcome to Japan's bustling capital, Tokyo. More than just a city, Tokyo is a fascinating juxtaposition of heterogeneous neighbourhoods, skyscrapers, neon signs, temples and traditional shrines.

• Our airport assistant will meet you at customs and give you all your travel documents and Pocket WiFi.
• Transfer by shuttle to your hotel (see transport section for more details).
• Check in at the hotel (rooms available from 3 PM).

What's included: Tickets for teamLab Planets Tokyo

• Before heading to the Osaka World Expo, enjoy a unique experience in Tokyo.
• Visit teamLab Planets Tokyo, a digital museum of renown which aims to create interactive works of art, combining different disciplines, including video mapping, inspired by the elements of nature, its movements and evolutions.

Must-sees in Tokyo:

• Make way for the main event.
• Your stay includes 2-day tickets for Osaka World Expo 2025.
• This global event is held every five years, showcasing innovation, technology and culture from around the world.
• The theme of Osaka World Expo 2025 will be 'Designing the future society for our lives', with ground-breaking exhibitions, live performances and cutting-edge technology.
• As well as the World Expo, there is plenty to discover in Osaka, including its delicious street food.

Must-sees in Osaka:

• Arrival at the hotel and check in.
• Discover Hiroshima, a place steeped in history, and the island of Miyajima, also known as 'the Island of the Gods'.

Must-sees in Hiroshima:

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
• Peace monuments (the dome, the memorial to the young Sadako Sasaki, one of the many victims of radiation).
• Hiroshima's famous castle.
• Itsukushima-jinja shrine and its much-photographed, world-famous giant torii.
• Folklore museum (Egami house).
• Senjôkaku Shinto temple and pagoda.

MIYAJIMA

• En route to Okayama, make a stop at Himeji (about 35 minutes, free with your Pass).
• A symbol of the town and famous throughout Japan, Himeji's'White Heron Castle' rises majestically as soon as you arrive by train.
• Continue on to Okayama and check into your hotel (conveniently located between the station and the castle).
• Stroll through the magnificent Korakuen Garden, one of the most famous in Japan. Okayama Castle, known as 'Raven Castle' because of its rare black colour, is also well worth a visit.
• Okayama is also home to several captivating museums: the Prefectural Museum, the Art Museum and the Oriental Museum.

KURASHIKI

• Continue your journey to the charming town of Kurashiki, just 20 minutes by train from Okayama.

• Arrival in Kyoto from Osaka.
• Free day to explore Kyoto.
• A former imperial capital, Kyoto combines past and present, and the present with the future. Millenarian, artistic, spiritual and gastronomic: a visit to Kyoto allows you to discover the origins of the Japanese soul and is an essential stopover on any trip to Japan.

Must-sees in Kyoto:

• Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) and Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion)
• Ryoanji Temple, famous for its rock garden
• The Gion district and the Philosopher's Way
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple
• Nishiki Market, where you'll find typical Kyoto culinary specialities
• Nijo Castle and its "nightingale" floors
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Optional excursions from Kyoto:

• Himeji and the magnificent White Heron Castle.
• Nara, to meet the deer and discover magnificent temples.

Last day: Return to Osaka - Departure

• Transfer to the airport by shuttle bus.
• Depart for home, replete with memories of your visit to the Land of the Rising sun. 

At each of your stops, you will be staying in comfortable rooms in 3* or 4* hotels, depending on the offer chosen. 3* hotels offer a great opportunity for a restful stay, but if you're looking for a bit more space and added comfort, opt for 4* hotels that will provide the perfect upgrade to make your stay exceptional.

3* hotels:

• Tokyo: OMO3 Akasaka
• Osaka: Integrate Osaka
• Kyoto: The Royal Park Hotel
• Okayama: Koraku Hotel
• Kurashiki: Royal Park Kurashiki
• Hiroshima: Integrate Hiroshima

4* hotels:

• Tokyo: Metropolitan Ikebukuro
• Osaka: Cross Hotel
• Kyoto: Royal Park Umekoji
• Okayama: Granvia Hotel
• Kurashiki: Kurashiki Royal Art Hotel
• Hiroshima: Sheraton Grand Hotel

If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply. 

Discover Tokyo on a private guided tour, from the Imperial Palace Gardens to the manga district, passing by centuries-old temples and trendy neighbourhoods. Your personal guide will tailor the tour to your preferences and be available to answer all your questions throughout the day.

Explore Kyoto, the cultural capital of Japan, filled with majestic temples, stunning gardens, and ancient traditions. Book a private guided tour to explore must-see sites and hidden gems, with an itinerary tailored to your preferences.

Experience an authentic Japanese tea ceremony in Kyoto, where every gesture is an art. You will savour green tea and traditional sweets while immersing yourself in Japanese culture and Zen philosophy.

Discover a world heritage treasure near Kyoto, which remains as yet untouched by the tourist crowds.

Tokyo, a dynamic and ever-evolving metropolis, seamlessly blends the ancient with the modern. Known for its neon-lit streets, towering skyscrapers, and futuristic technology, the city also offers serene gardens, traditional temples, and sacred Shinto shrines. Beneath the fast-paced exterior, Tokyo remains rooted in its rich cultural heritage, inviting visitors to explore its unique contrasts.

Must-sees:

• Imperial Palace: A peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, offering a glimpse into Japan’s imperial history.
• Senso-ji Temple: Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, located in the vibrant Asakusa district.
• Hamarikyu Gardens: A tranquil escape, showcasing beautifully landscaped gardens and traditional tea houses.

Culinary culture:

Tokyo’s food scene is as diverse as its cultural landscape. From high-end sushi restaurants to humble izakayas and food stalls, the city offers something for every palate. Indulge in world-class sushi at the renowned Tsukiji Fish Market, savour traditional ramen in local noodle shops, or sample delicious tempura and yakitori. The city’s culinary offerings reflect its blend of both contemporary and age-old traditions, with flavours that range from delicate to bold.

Dive deeper:

Explore the lesser-known gems of Tokyo, such as the Yanaka District, where traditional wooden houses and local artisans offer an authentic view of old Tokyo. Wander through the Nezu Shrine, a serene spot famous for its torii gates, or visit Odaiba, a futuristic entertainment hub, to witness the city's innovative spirit in action. Tokyo’s hidden treasures offer a deeper connection to the cultural roots of Japan.

Good to know:

Tokyo’s public transport system is efficient and easy to navigate, making it ideal for exploration. Japan's capital city is renowned for its neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct charm. For example, Shibuya is known for its youthful energy and fashion scene, while Asakusa offers a more traditional experience with its iconic Senso-ji Temple and historic shopping streets. Visitors should also explore Odaiba, a futuristic waterfront district featuring high-tech shopping malls, entertainment complexes, and stunning views of Tokyo Bay. Don’t miss the quirkily-themed cafes, such as the animal cafes or robot-themed establishments, which offer an intriguing and distinctly Tokyo experience.

Kyoto, the heart of traditional Japan, offers an authentic glimpse into the country's rich cultural past. Steeped in history, it is a city where tranquil gardens, beautiful temples, and vibrant shrines coexist with the timeless beauty of well-preserved architecture. While much of Japan has embraced modernity, Kyoto stands as a guardian of the old ways, preserving its heritage through its quiet charm.

Must-sees:

• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): A breathtaking Zen Buddhist temple, surrounded by an idyllic garden and reflecting pond.
• Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates leading up Mount Inari.
• Gion District: A traditional geisha district, where visitors can catch glimpses of these iconic figures in their ceremonial attire.

Culinary culture:

Kyoto’s culinary landscape reflects its deep cultural roots. The city is renowned for kaiseki, a multi-course meal that highlights seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation. Be sure to sample yudofu (tofu hot pot) at a temple restaurant or savour matcha-based desserts in one of the many tea houses that dot the city. Kyoto’s kyo-yasai (local vegetables) are a must-try, often found in dishes prepared with techniques passed down through generations.

Dive deeper:

For a more authentic Kyoto experience, visit the Nishijin district, a charming area where traditional weaving techniques are still practiced. Walk through the shōtengai (shopping streets), where small speciality shops continue to thrive, selling everything from tofu to pickles, often run by families that have passed down their trades for centuries. These glimpses into everyday Kyoto life are essential for understanding the enduring spirit of the city.

Good to know:

Kyoto is known for its traditional tea ceremonies, which can be experienced at various tea houses throughout the city. Participating in one is an opportunity to witness the artistry and deep cultural significance of tea preparation, where every movement is purposeful and steeped in centuries-old tradition. Additionally, Kyoto is home to kimono rental shops, where visitors can dress in the city’s iconic garments and stroll through historic districts like Gion, creating an unforgettable experience that blends past and present.

Explore Japan's second city and enjoy the lively neighbourhoods of Namba and Dotombori, try an izakaya, Japanese bar-restaurants! Enjoy the local specialities: okonomiyaki, savoury cabbage pancake, or takoyaki, small octopus dough balls.

Continue your adventure with a trip to Osaka Castle Park with its 300 Yoshino cherry trees or to Shi-Tennoji Temple which is the oldest in Japan.