We Love —
- Discover Japan with this trip combining the most beautiful natural and cultural wonders of the country.
- Our members can choose between 3* and 4* accommodation throughout their stay!
- On this amazing tour, visit the must-see sites of the Land of the Rising Sun, but also some hidden treasures - Tokyo, Takayama, Hiroshima, Japanese Alps, Kanazawa & Kyoto await!
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected by our experts especially for you
Your Itinerary In Brief —
Throughout the duration of your private tour, you will have the unique opportunity to explore some of Japan's cultural and historic highlights, as well as witnessing the magnificent landscapes and natural beauty this country has to offer. Choose from 8 or 11 nights, or opt to make the adventure last a little bit longer with the 14-night option to include visits to Kanazawa and Takayama.
During their tour, our members will follow the itinerary as seen below.
8 nights:
Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo
Day 2: Tokyo
Day 3: Tokyo
Day 4: Kyoto
Day 5: Kyoto
Day 6: Kyoto
Day 7: Hiroshima
Day 8: Hiroshima
Day 9: Tokyo
Day 10: Tokyo - Departure
11 nights:
Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo
Day 2: Tokyo
Day 3: Tokyo
Day 4: Tokyo
Day 5: Kyoto
Day 6: Kyoto
Day 7: Kyoto
Day 8: Hiroshima
Day 9: Hiroshima
Day 10: Kanazawa
Day 11: Tokyo
Day 12: Tokyo - Departure
14 nights:
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
Day 2: Tokyo
Day 3: Tokyo
Day 4: Tokyo
Day 5: Tokyo
Day 6: Kyoto
Day 7: Kyoto
Day 8: Kyoto
Day 9: Hiroshima
Day 10: Hiroshima
Day 11: Kanazawa
Day 12 : Kanazawa
Day 13 : Takayama
Day 14: Takayama
Day 15: Tokyo - Departure
Your Itinerary —
Day 1 - 2: Arrival - Tokyo
Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo
Take your flight from the UK into Narita or Haneda Airport.
Day 2: Tokyo
Upon your arrival, meet your transfer to Tokyo to check-in at your hotel. There is an option to be welcomed by a guide to help with your arrival and transfer. This can be added onto your booking at the next booking stage.
Day 3 - 6, 7 or 8: Tokyo - Kyoto
Day 3: Tokyo
Free days to explore Tokyo. Overnight in Tokyo.
Our suggestions:
- Asakusa district and Senso-ji temple
- The Tokyo Skytree, 634 metres high, and Tokyo Tower, the symbol of the city.
- Ueno Park with its many museums
- Shibuya and Shinjuku districts
- The Imperial Palac e Garden
- Meiji-jingu Shrine
Day trips from Tokyo:
- Nikko, with its temples and shrines in the heart of the forest. Trains to Nikko are covered by the JR Pass. (2 hours)
- Kamakura and the Great Buddha (Daibutsu). The train to Kamakura is covered by the JR Pass. (1 hour)
Day 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8: Kyoto
Take the Shinkansen to Kyoto (about 2 hours 30 minutes and covered by your rail pass) and check-in to your hotel. Free day to explore Kyoto, before a guided walk in Gion, the historic geisha district, at nightfall for around 1 hour 30 minutes with an English speaking guide. Overnight in Kyoto. Free time to discover everything Kyoto has to offer.
Our suggestions:
- Ryoanji Temple, a famous rock garden.
- Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) and Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion)
- The Gion district and the Philosopher’s Path
- The Kiyomizu-dera
- Nishiki Market, where you can find typical food from Kyoto
- Nijo Castle and its nightingale floors
- Arashiyama’s bamboo groves
Day trip suggestions from Kyoto:
- Visit the beautiful wild deer of Nara, covered by the Japan Rail Pass (30 to 45 minutes), before discovering the Fushimi-Inari Taisha shrine and its thousands of vermilion torii gates on your way back to Kyoto.
Day 7-8, 9 or 10: Kyoto - Hiroshima
Day 7, 8, 9 or 10: Hiroshima
Enjoy a 2-hour Shinkansen journey to Hiroshima, covered by your Japan Rail Pass. Arrival at your hotel and check-in. The city of Hiroshima is known because of the nuclear bombings on 6th August 1945. The city has imposed its faith in the future and has become a symbol of peace.
Don’t miss:
- The Peace Memorial and its museum
- Ikari-jinja sanctuary
- Sukkei-en garden
Discover Miyajima, also accessible from Hiroshima:
- Itsukushima-jinja sanctuary and its ootorii. Note that since June 2019, the Miyajima Torii has been under construction until an undetermined date.
- Momijidani park
- Daishô-in temple
- The Treasure Pavilion, Homotsukan
- The five-storey pagoda Gojû-no-tô
- Egami House
Day 10, 11, 12 or 13: Kanazawa - Takayama (11 or 14-night option)
Day 10, 11 or 12: Kanazawa (11 or 14-night tour option)
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Hiroshima station (not included), and catch the Shinkansen and express train journey to Kanazawa, which will take approximately 4 hours, covered by your Japan Rail Pass. Arrival at your hotel and check in. Free day for you to explore Kanazawa.
Our suggestions:
- Kenrokuen, one of Japan's "three most beautiful landscape gardens".
- Kanazawa Castle.
- The Seisonkaku Villa, built in 1863.
- The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Higashi-Chaya district and Nagamachi district.
Day 13: Takayama (14-night tour option)
Enjoy breakfast in your hotel in Kanazawa before transferring to Kanazawa station (not included). Take the Shinkansen and local train journey to Takayama, approximately 2 hours, covered by your Japan Rail Pass. Arrival at your hotel and check in.
Takayama is famous for being an area of skilled woodwork artists. During the Edo Period, Takayama was controlled by the shogun, whom of which managed to generate fortune for the city. Currently in the heart of Takayama, there is a preserved merchant street that continues to sell its beautiful crafts. Inside this small village is a blossoming culture and gorgeous views to see.
Our Suggestions:
- The Sanmachi-suji district
- The Kokubun-ji temple
- The houses of Yoshijima and Kusakabe
- The Hall dedicated to the Takayama Matsuri, a festival held twice a year in spring in autumn
Day 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 15: Tokyo
Day 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 15: Tokyo
Breakfast in your hotel in Kanazawa (11-night tour option) or Takayama (14-night tour option). Then take a trip to Tokyo from Kanazawa by Shinkansen (11-night tour option, approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, covered by your Japan Rail Pass).
Or its a trip to Tokyo from Takayama by express train and Shinkansen (14-night tour option, approximately 4 hours, covered by your Japan Rail Pass). Arrival at your hotel and check in before a free day and evening to explore Tokyo. Limousine Bus transfer from Tokyo to Narita or Haneda airport, depending on your return flight home.
Your Tour Hotels —
Maximum room capacity
For this trip to Japan you will have the choice between 3* hotels or 4* hotels. At each stage you will put your suitcases in a Twin Room.
In Japan, where everything is smaller than in other countries, 3* hotels are often very good quality, but the rooms are smaller (12 to 16 m2 for twin rooms). To upgrade your comfort, select the 4* option. Some hotels will offer one room for 3 people, others one twin room and a single room.
3* Hotels:
Tokyo: Hotel B Akasaka Mitsuke or similiar
Kyoto: New Hotel Tsugu 京都三条 or similiar
Hiroshima: Intergate Hiroshima or similiar
Kanazawa: Hotel Kaname Inn Tatemachi or similiar
Takayama: Best Western Takayama or similiar
4* hotels:
Tokyo: Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro or similiar
Kyoto: Hotel The General Kyoto or similiar
Hiroshima: Hotel Rihga Hotel Hiroshima or similiar
Kanazawa: Hotel Hyatt Centric or similiar
Takayama: Hotel Wat Hotel & Spa Hida Takayama or similiar
Please note that in case of a single supplement, it will be applied in all accommodations. In case of a group booking (more than 4 people), we cannot guarantee that all members will be at the same hotel, but they will be near.
These rooms sleep up to 3 adults or 2 adults + 1 child.
Your Board Basis
Throughout the tour, you will enjoy a meal plan according to the program. For the 3* option, breakfasts are only included in Kanazawa and Takayama. For the 4* option, breakfasts are included throughout. You will have lunches in Hiroshima, Kanazawa and Takayama. Please note: Breakfasts not included in your package can be added at the reception desk when you arrive at the hotel. However, in Tokyo and Kyoto, you will find many cafés near your hotel serving often tastier breakfasts than those of hotels, which sometimes have restrictive schedules and mostly savoury tastes. Please note that due to the current global health pandemic (COVID-19), certain restaurants and buffets may be closed or places and tables may be limited. We strongly recommend that you contact the hotel for further information two days before your arrival. Please note that due to the current global health pandemic (COVID-19), the cultural, leisure and wellness activities, at the hotels may be closed or limited in terms of access. We advise you to contact the hotel or the tourist office two days before your arrival.
Your Included Excursions —
Kyoto - Geishas District Evening Tour
Enjoy walking with a guide in this amazing historical area at night (Around 1h 30, from 7pm to 8.30pm). All our guides are bilingual in English. French, Italian or Spanish depending on availability. Max 10 people group.
Your Optional Excursions —
One night in a traditional Ryokan 3* on Miyajima Island
Enjoy a totally authentic experience staying overnight in a traditional accommodation (Ryokan Ryoso Kawaguchi), with Japanese dinner and breakfast included.
Tokyo - Full Day in Tokyo
Discover the modern Japanese capital with a full-day private guided excursion. Visit Meiji-jingu shrine in the centre of Tokyo and Harajuku. Then explore Shinjuku, its garden and the Government Building for a breathtaking view.
Kyoto - Guided Day Tour
Enjoy a guided day with one of the locals! Example of visits: Explore Nijo Castle, the Kyoto residence of the Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu and Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion). Then it's onto Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) and the Gion district.
Kyoto - Tea Ceremony
Travel back in time by participating in a traditional tea ceremony in an authentic Kyoto neighbourhood. Taste delicious matcha tea and learn the complexity of its service in one of the best teahouses in town. In English only, and in groups of a maximum of 12 people. Duration 45 minutes.
Distillery visit and sake tasting in Kyoto (3 hour duration)
Discover all the secrets of sake, a traditional Japanese alcohol. You will start with a visit to a sake brewery where you will witness the traditional brewing processes that have been passed down from generation to generation. Then, during a tasting session with experts, you will learn about the unique characteristics of different varieties of sake.
Included in the price: snacks and drinks, entry to the distillery and the museum and tasting of 10 different sakes. In English only.
One night in a traditional Ryokan 4* on Miyajima Island
Enjoy a totally authentic experience by staying overnight in traditional ryokan Iwaso or equivalent, with dinner and Japanese breakfast included. This night will take place on the island of Miyajima, 35 minutes from Hiroshima by train and then boat (both included in the Japan Rail Pass).
Hiroshima & Miyajima - Private Guided Getaway
Discover the magic of Miyajima Island with an English-speaking guide: first visit the famous Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of the 6th century, and its famous flaming red torii in the middle of the sea of Seto. Continue with a tour of the historic city of Hiroshima and its Peace Memorial, as well as its famous Dome symbolizing the nuclear attack of the Second World War.
Your Included Services —
24 hour telephone assistance
Enjoy 24-hour telephone assistance included!
One Japan Rail Pass
For your convenience, one Japan Rail Pass is included in this offer.
Your Optional Services —
Pocket WI-FI Rental throughout Tour
In the land of the rising sun, free Wi-Fi access is still rare. Renting a Pocket Wi-Fi in Japan is ideal if you are looking for fast and unlimited internet access for the duration of your stay. Its lightweight and long battery life guarantees you internet access wherever you are, and on any type of device (iPhone, Android smartphone, laptop, etc.).
Several devices can be connected at the same time on a pocket Wi-Fi. We recommend only 1 same pocket Wi-Fi for 1 to 4 people. No data limit. If you subscribe to this option, the pocket Wi-Fi can be picked up at the hotel in Tokyo.
Pre-paid transportation card, already charged with ¥1,500
This card is a prepaid smart card that allows you to use most of the urban means of transport (metro, trains and buses) in Japan. It is already loaded with 1,500 yen and is ready to use. The price of the trip is automatically debited on each of your trips. If you use all the credit, you can easily top up the card at the station.
The card also functions as an electronic wallet to pay for small purchases in mini-markets, drink dispensers. The card is valid for 10 years. It is also possible to return it to the station at the end of your stay to recover the 500 yen deposit on the card. The card is not transferable: one card is required per person. If you add this option, the cards will be sent to you 20 days before your departure, with your mini travel guide.
Private transfer returns from the Tokyo Airport
Only for guests arriving between 10am and 6pm - Tokyo is a big city, and sometimes it is hard to navigate. A warm reception at the airport will help you in arriving smoothly to your accommodation and take your first steps in the city.
Our guide will meet you at the airport, at the customs exit, and will take you to your hotel. They will also be able to give you advice that will be invaluable for the rest of your stay. We will do our best to guarantee you a representative that speaks English.
Your Journey —
Flights:
You may choose from Economy or Premium class flights on sectors that they operate, at the next stage of the booking process. The flights included are with either a scheduled or no-frills airline and are subject to live availability and prices can change. You can choose your preferred departure times during the booking process. Please select your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ.
Transfers:
Return transfers are included for flight-inclusive offers. For inbound transfer arrangements please confirm with your transfer provider when you arrive. Alternatively, please check with the reception of your accommodation. If you still require assistance, please call the transfer provider directly.
Transportation included in this tour: Transfer from Tokyo airport (Narita or Haneda) by Limousine Bus. Transfer from your hotel in Tokyo to Tokyo airport (Narita or Haneda) by Limousine Bus. Please note: In case of an extension before and/or after the tour booked on your side, we will not be able to provide you with the airport transfer included in the tour. Transportation between the different steps of the tour 8 nights tour: 11 nights tour: 14 nights tour: What is a Japan Rail Pass? The Japan Rail Pass is a special train pass for foreign tourists visiting Japan. It includes the use of all trains operated by Japan Railways, more than 20,000km of railways throughout Japan including the Shinkansen Bullet Trains (except for certain high-speed “Nozomi” and “Mizuho” trains). This allows you to access the vast majority of tourist attractions from the North to the South of Japan, on the 4 main islands for days your pass is valid. What you receive is an official voucher that you will have to exchange it at a JR office (which can be found at major airports and JR stations), once you have arrived in Japan, you will need your passport to exchange the voucher. At the time of the exchange, you will have to provide a date for when you want your JR Pass to be activated. This date must be within 30 days after the exchange. With your JR Pass you can go anywhere you want on the Japan Railways railroad network. With the JR Pass, booking is not an obligation and any non-reserved (and available) seat can be occupied upon presentation of your Japan Rail Pass. You can also reserve a seat without additional charges by going to a travel service center or JR ticket office (“midori no madoguchi”) before taking the train. Simply show your Japan Rail Pass and you can get a seat ticket. Note: It is not necessary to have a Japan Rail Pass that covers the whole duration of your stay. Indeed, it is only profitable if it is used for long journeys between the different steps of the stay (especially by Shinkansen) which are very expensive. In large cities like Tokyo, not all public transports are covered by the Japan Rail Pass and trains are relatively cheap. Thus, providing you with a Japan Rail Pass lasting more than 7 days would not be profitable but, on the contrary, would significantly increase the cost of your journey. The Japan Rail Pass does not cover these transports (which are not included in your offer): Starting May 2020, large luggages needs pre-booking (free of charge, at the station) to be carried in all Japanese Shinkansen trains. If such pre-booking is not done, you will need to pay 1000¥ (8€) per luggage. Low availability though. Hotel to Hotel luggage delivery also exists (to be booked with hotel receptions). Details in your travelogue.
Your Destination —
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 cafes that serve delicious noodles and rice dishes.
Kyoto
If you're looking for old Japan, Kyoto is a must: tranquil gardens, sublime temples and colourful shrines can be found in abundance. While the rest of Japan has embraced modernity, Kyoto still keeps traditions alive.
Take a stroll through the Nishijin district and spy some of the older residents emerging from the machiya (traditional townhouses) to ladle water onto their porch. If you go by an old shōtengai (shopping street) you can admire the ancient speciality shops: tofu sellers, fishmongers, pickle vendors and tea merchants.
Kanazawa
Touched with the grand allure of its past, Kanazawa prides itself on being a historical jewel of Japan. It is best known for being home to one of Japan's most beautiful landscaped gardens - Kenrokuen - a castle garden originating from the 17th century.
It's easy to discover this nostalgic city in a few days, admiring its celebrated penchant for the traditional arts, including hand-painted silks and lacquerware, ceramics and delicate gold leaf work. Spot a geisha at work, discover authentic tea houses and inns, and wade your way through the market.
