We Love —
- The intoxicating blend of history and innovation, from Shanghai’s vibrant Old Town to Tokyo’s mesmerising cityscapes.
- The spellbinding beauty of Shanghai at twilight, where the city’s dazzling lights seem to float on the river’s surface, creating a scene that feels like a dream.
- The peaceful harmony of Kyoto’s bamboo forests and Zen gardens, where every step feels like a meditative retreat into nature.
We could hardly capture this trip better than by calling it ‘a journey between tradition and modernity’… Embark on an adventure to explore two powerful empires that have influenced both the past and the present, and return awestruck by the striking contrasts these cultures reveal at every turn.
Your stay at a glance —
Unite the vibrant allure of China and the serene charm of Japan in a single unforgettable adventure. Begin with 2 enchanting nights in Shanghai, a city where history dances with modernity along glittering skylines and tranquil gardens. Then, let Japan captivate you with a 10-night exploration of Tokyo’s electrifying energy, Kyoto’s timeless beauty, and Osaka’s rich culture.
Feel the pulse of Shanghai’s dynamic energy and embrace Japan’s delicate harmony for a once-in-a-lifetime journey that seamlessly blends two extraordinary worlds.
Tailor your dream escape:
- 12-night : 2 nights in Shanghai + 10 nights on a Standard or Superior tour of Japan
- 14-night : 2 nights in Shanghai + 12 nights on a Standard or Superior tour of Japan
Golden Tulip Shanghai Rainbow 4* —
Step into the Golden Tulip Shanghai 4*, where you’ll feel at the very heart of everything—where the energy of the city, its culture, and its vibrant spirit surround you. With sleek, modern rooms, this hotel blends luxury and comfort seamlessly, offering a perfect retreat in the midst of Shanghai’s dynamic atmosphere. Ideally located near Hongqiao Airport and convention centres, all of the city’s top attractions are just moments away.
More than just a place to stay, it’s an experience. A unique space where warm hospitality invites you to embrace the city’s charm. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be immersed in an unforgettable stay that captures the true essence of Shanghai.
Your room —
Enjoy a stay in a Deluxe Room.
DELUXE ROOM (30 m²)
Discover the refined luxury of the Deluxe Room, an elegant sanctuary where every detail is meticulously crafted to offer comfort and serenity, inviting you to an extraordinary stay. A perfect reflection of timeless Chinese charm.
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
At the Golden Tulip Shanghai Rainbow 4*, the restaurant, open all day, is a celebration of flavours. Indulge in a vibrant buffet or choose from an à la carte menu, where the tastes of China, Southeast Asia, and the West blend seamlessly for a truly unique experience.For a peaceful retreat, Coffee & Co offers the perfect spot to relax, sip a freshly brewed coffee, and savour the moment. The Slider Bar & Lounge is your ideal escape to unwind with afternoon tea or a cocktail, all while enjoying the soothing garden views.As night falls, the intimate Top Bar provides a cosy, elegant setting to sip on expertly crafted cocktails, making it the perfect place to end your evening on a high note.
Your time
Head to the third floor, where relaxation and energy flow in perfect harmony. Splash around in the serene indoor pool or dive into an energising workout in the fully equipped gym.
Craving something more peaceful? Drift into a blissful yoga session or pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa treatment. Whatever you seek, the third floor has it all.
Your optional extras —
Discover Shanghai with an English speaking guide (min 2 people)
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Shanghai with a guided tour designed for a minimum of two people. Discover the city’s vibrant blend of tradition and modernity, as your expert English-speaking guide leads you through iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Meet your guide at the hotel for a day full of discovery. In the morning, enjoy a stroll through Fuxing Park, where you’ll encounter locals engaging in leisure activities and sports. Next, visit the enchanting Yuyuan Garden, followed by a walk through the charming Old Town. Savour a delicious Shanghai-style dim sum lunch. In the afternoon, explore the serene Jade Buddha Temple before ascending to the 88th floor of the Jin Mao Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Shanghai. End the day with a leisurely walk along the Bund, and through the bustling Nanjing Road.
Zhujiajiao Water Village Excursion
Embark on a charming excursion to Zhujiajiao, the picturesque water village. With a guide fluent in English, explore the tranquil canals, ancient bridges, and traditional architecture of this ancient town. Experience the serene beauty and rich history of one of Shanghai’s most beloved water towns.
You’ll explore the charming village and enjoy a peaceful boat ride along its narrow canals in a traditional wooden boat. After a delightful lunch in the village, return to Shanghai for a stroll through the historic French Concession. The evening is free for you to enjoy at your leisure.
Your included services —
1 complimentary E-SIM Card with 10GB Data for 15 Days
Stay connected effortlessly with the 1 E-SIM Card offering 10GB of data for 15 days, included with your stay. Perfect for exploring the city, sharing memories, or staying in touch—enjoy seamless connectivity throughout your journey.
Your itinerary in brief —
Japan, the land of the rising sun, offers you an intense travel experience. Admire the perfect combination of modernity and ancient customs on this 10 or 12 night tour.
Explore major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto at your own pace and move around freely like the locals thanks to the Japan Rail Pass.
Choose the length of stay that suits you best:
10 night tour:
- Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Days 2 - 4: Tokyo
- Day 5: Tokyo - Kyoto
- Days 6 - 8: Kyoto
- Day 9: Kyoto - Osaka
- Day 10: Osaka
- Day 11: Departure
12 night tour:
- Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Days 2 - 5: Tokyo
- Day 6: Tokyo - Kyoto
- Days 7 - 10: Kyoto
- Day 11: Kyoto - Osaka
- Day 12: Osaka
- Day 13: Departure
The freedom to explore:
Discover our expertly curated self-guided tours, designed to offer the perfect balance of structure and flexibility. While our travel experts suggest itineraries to help you explore each destination in depth, you have the freedom to tailor activities and pace to suit your personal preferences. Rest assured, the carefully selected hotels will remain as listed, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience throughout your journey.
Your itinerary in detail —
10 NIGHT TOUR
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN TOKYO
- English-speaking assistance upon arrival at Narita or Haneda airport.
- Shared transfer from Narita or Haneda Airport to your hotel in Tokyo.
Overnight stay at a Standard or Superior hotel (depending your chosen package).
Breakfast included.
DAYS 2 - 5: TOKYO
- More than a city, Tokyo is a fascinating juxtaposition of motley districts, skyscrapers, neon signs, temples and traditional shrines.
- Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, discovering Tokyo.
- Our suggestion: Start your discovery of Tokyo gently with the famous Meiji-jingu Shrine, before continuing along the pedestrian Takeshita Dori street, renowned for its small shops.
Overnight stays at a Standard or Superior hotel (depending your chosen package).
Breakfasts included.
DAY 6: TOKYO - KYOTO (DAY 6 = ACTIVATION OF JR RAIL PASS)
- Your JR Rail Pass activates today.
- Board your train and enjoy a pleasant journey to Kyoto, considered to be Japan's spiritual centre.
Overnight stay at a Standard or Superior hotel (depending your chosen package).
Breakfast included.
DAYS 7 - 8: KYOTO
- Millennial, artistic, spiritual and gourmet, a visit to Kyoto is an opportunity to discover the cradle of the Japanese soul in all its facets, and is an absolute must-see on any trip to Japan.
- Our suggestion (optional, extra charge): Why not travel back in time by partaking in a traditional tea ceremony? Taste delicious matcha tea and understand all the intricacies of serving it in one of the city's tea houses.
Overnight stays at a Standard or Superior hotel (depending your chosen package).
Breakfasts included.
Days 9-11: Osaka
DAY 9: KYOTO - OSAKA
- Enjoy a relaxing train journey from Kyoto - Osaka with your JR pass.
- Take advantage of this short stay in Japan's gastronomic capital of Osaka to immerse yourself in the Japanese culture through its cuisine.
Overnight stay at a Standard or Superior hotel (depending your chosen package).
Breakfast included.
DAY 10: OSAKA
- Spend time discovering Osaka. Known for its quality street-food, you'll also discover a dynamic modern port city with a lively nightlife.
Overnight stay at a Standard or Superior hotel (depending your chosen package).
Breakfast included.
DAY 11: DEPARTURE
- It's your final morning in Japan, and time for departure.
- Enjoy the ease of a shared transfer from your hotel in Osaka to Kansai Airport
Overnight stay at a Standard or Superior hotel (depending your chosen package).
Breakfast included.
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change.
Your hotels —
Hand-picked just for you
During your journey in Japan, you will stay in the following thoughtfully chosen hotels.
Your hotels:
Standard category accommodation:
- Tokyo: Agora Place Asakusa or Sotetsu Fresa Inn Higashi Shinjuku (or similar)
- Kyoto: Hearton Hotel Kyoto or Hotel Gimmond (or similar)
- Osaka: Hearton Nishi-Humeda or Wing International Select Osaka Umeda (or similar)
Superior category accommodation:
- Tokyo: Monterey La Soeur Ginza or Hotel East 21 Tokyo (or similar)
- Kyoto: Oriental Hotel Kyoto Rokujo or Almont Hotel Kyoto (or similar)
- Osaka: Mitsui Garden Osaka Premier Hotel or Ana Crowne Plaza Osaka (or similar)
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
Your optional extras —
Discover Kamakura: Temples and the Great Buddha
Discover Kamakura on an immersive excursion, visiting the Hase-Dera Temple, the Great Buddha, and the Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū Shrine, surrounded by beautiful cherry blossom gardens. After five hours of exploration, you can either return to Tokyo or continue your journey at your own pace.
Kimono Tea Ceremony
Take part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in Kyoto, wearing a kimono of your choice, complete with a hairstyle and a photo session. Guided by a master, this experience offers an authentic and personalised moment.
Sushi Workshop in Kyoto
Experience the art of sushi making in the heart of Kyoto! Learn the traditional techniques from expert chefs as you create your own delicious sushi. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, this hands-on workshop offers a unique culinary experience in one of Japan's most beautiful cities.
First-Class Train Upgrade (Japan Rail Green Pass)
The Japan Rail Green Pass is a first-class pass that guarantees you spacious and comfortable seats in air-conditioned carriages on all JR lines. Enjoy additional perks such as traditional oshibori, complimentary drinks, onboard magazines, and access to private cars for an unparalleled travel experience.
Your journey to China —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking. This flight may include one or more stopovers. The stopover may be technical (without a change of aircraft) or transit (with a change of aircraft).
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destinations —
Tokyo
One of the world’s most cutting-edge capitals, Tokyo is a city of contrasts. Famous for its modernity, neon-lit landscape and towering skyscrapers, it is also home to sprawling parkland, peaceful shrines and temples and lovingly tended gardens.
Despite its love affair with manga pop culture, fashion, high-tech trends and conspicuous consumption, below the surface is a city that has its roots in ancient heritage. Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples stand close to skyscrapers as a reminder of a more contemplative time, and at the heart of the hyperactive centre lies the serene Imperial Palace, the home of the ruling emperor that provides a tangible link to the city’s historical past.
Behind the shopping, entertainment and commercial emporia can be found quaint wooden houses, private gardens with meticulously clipped bonsai trees and the Zen-like calm of the Hamarikyu Gardens. Discover the fascinating and exquisite culture of Japan, where the ancient and modern worlds collide. The city’s reputation as a mega-expensive metropolis is ill-conceived, and visitors can take advantage of inexpensive izakaya bars and neighbourhood cafés that serve delicious noodles and rice dishes.
Shanghai
Step into a city where tradition and modernity dance in perfect harmony. Stroll along the historic Bund at twilight, where the glittering skyline of Pudong reflects in the shimmering Huangpu River. Lose yourself in the tranquil beauty of Yu Garden, a masterpiece of classical Chinese landscaping, and explore the winding alleys of the Old Town, alive with the scent of street food and the hum of local life.
Glide through the city on a dreamy river cruise, ascend the Shanghai Tower to touch the sky, and wander through the artistic enclave of Tianzifang, a labyrinth of quaint shops, galleries, and hidden cafes. Shanghai’s magic will enchant your senses at every turn.
