Welcome to
Explore modern cities, ancient traditions, local flavors and more with a custom tailored journey through Japan
Japan strikes an elegant balance between the modern and the ancient. One can seemingly travel back through time by taking a sleek bullet train from the neon glow of Tokyo’s densely populated streets into the pristine alps, dotted with buddhist temples. Explore Tokyo city, Japan's capital and the world's most populous metropolis, discover the mountains of Hakone National Park, or cruise Lake Ashi for breathtaking views of Mount Fuji.
Whether you are looking for the legendary hospitality at a ryokan, a cultural experience with a Japanese tea ceremony, or to relax in an onsen, our Japan Specialists can tailor your trip to your exact preferences, and give you advice on this rich and diverse country.
Browse through our extensive options to make your trip truly yours. All of our trips offer the ability to leverage our specialists to arrange personalized experiences for wherever you choose to go
Request more information →Please note: This itinerary is completely customizable through our destination specialists.
Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Tokyo by private car.
The energetic, fascinating city of Tokyo has been the capital of Japan since 1868. Its cosmopolitan nature is reflected in the variety of shops, restaurants, markets and nonstop activity. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Luxury: The Capitol Hotel Tokyu or similar
Upscale: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba or similar
Begin your day with a visit to Tsukiji Outer Market, where retail and wholesale purveyors sell fresh seafood and produce along with kitchenware and other household goods. After your visit, participate in a sushi-making workshop, where you can prepare your own lunch.
In the afternoon, stroll through Hama Rikyu Garden. This garden is a typical daimyo (Japanese feudal lord) garden in the Edo period with a tidal pond. Afterwards, enjoy a boat ride from Hinode Pier to Asakusa to see a harmonious blend of old and new Tokyo. In Asakusa, walk down Nakamise Street, which leads to Sensoji, one of the finest Buddhist temples in Japan. After Asakusa, drive through Kappabashi, Ueno and Akihabara neighborhoods before returning to your hotel.
Luxury: The Capitol Hotel Tokyu or similar
Upscale: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba or similar
After breakfast, visit the Imperial Palace East Gardens. The East Gardens is the only part of the inner palace area that is open to the public. Entry is through the Ote-mon Gate, which was once the principal gate of the city of Edo, the former name of Tokyo. The garden lies at what was the heart of the old Edo castle. Continue to Meiji Shrine, a fine example of Japanese shrine architecture, nestled in a peaceful, picturesque area. Afterwards, see the palatial Akasaka State Guest House and the National Diet Building.
Later, pass through Harajuku, the center of Japan's teenage culture and fashion. Harajuku’s busiest fashion street, “Takeshita Dori (Takeshita Street),” is where Japanese kawaii (cute) culture originated and is the source of Tokyo’s pop-culture for inspiring fashionistas and trend seekers worldwide.
After lunch, visit the Mori Building Digital Art Museum. Then head to the nearby Miraikan, Japan’s National Museum of Emerging Science and Engineering, which highlights cutting-edge science and technology.
Your final stop of the day is Ginza, a renowned shopping district that contains a wonderland of food. Visit underground food falls, known as Depachika, where you can discover locals’ preferred dishes.
Upscale: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba or similar
Festivals (or matsuri) are an important part of Japan’s culture, and can range from small and peaceful to extravagant and fiery. Typically celebrated around shrines and temples, participants will dress in colorful outfits and often carry elaborate shrines.
Hokkaido
The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of Japan’s most popular winter events - drawing millions of visitors each year. Get a taste for Hokkaido hospitality and stunning illuminations in the winter extravaganza that features over 400 snow and ice statues.
Kyoto
Gion Matsuri is Japan’s biggest festival, and has been held yearly since 869. Highlights include the Yoiyama evening street parties, delicious street food, and the elaborate multi-ton floats. The main processions are held on July 17th and July 24th.
Aomori City
Aomori Nebuta Matsuri is Japan’s most colorful festival, with more than 3 million people attending each year. The giant floats depict mythological creatures and famous Japanese character. Don’t miss the enormous lantern floats, which are encircled by musicians and dancers. The festival closes with a bang; a two-hour long fireworks display.
Kishiwada
Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is Japan’s most extravagant danjiri float festival. This is a fun and powerful celebration that prays for a bountiful autumn harvest. Danjiri floats are wooden structures that are ornately carved, often depicting ancient battles and myths.
In order to ensure that you have the best experience possible, we ask that you please read the following information:
Japan stretches from the northernmost island of Hokkaido, close to Russia, to the subtropics of Okinawa. The weather varies greatly from region to region, so check the weather forecast for the areas you'll be traveling to before departure.
Japan uses 100 volts nationwide.
Tipping is not a part of Japanese culture.
Currency: Japan’s official currency is the Yen. In general, travelers should not be afraid to carry cash in person, as Japan is an extremely safe and honest country.
Payment Methods: Most international or large hotels accept major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. Inquire about the accepted cards before making a purchase. We would advise you to carry enough cash to cover your dining expenses, as not all restaurants accept credit cards. Your passport or a valid ID may be requested in order to make a purchase using a credit card. However, it is difficult to use credit cards to get cash advances.
Where to exchange money: The Japanese Post Office ATMs in major branches accept foreign issued debit and credit cards, as do the ATMs in many branches of 7Eleven convenience stores.
Our specialists can help you customize this itinerary or help you discover the perfect regions in Japan to fit your travel style.