Places You'll See
Highlights
- Best of Japan: The temples of Kyoto, Nara, Kamakura and Eiheiji; the historical districts of Kanazawa, Kyoto and Takehara; and the world famous giant Himeji Castle, opulent Toshogu Shrine in Nikko and stunning Tojinbo Cliffs are all classic stops on the Japan journey you'll get to visit
- Hands on Experiences: Try traditional blue dying in Himeji, enjoy making Japanese paper in the UNESCO site of Gokayama and playing around with the rabbits in Takahara
- Breathtaking Landscapes: Walk through the old Nara Park, marvel at the beautiful Tojinbo Cliffs and get lost in the cityscapes of Osaka and Tokyo
Description
Tokyo is the perfect place to start for this amazing 14-day itinerary that some describe as the "New Golden Route." It takes you on a journey to Tokyo's most popular sites, Kanazawa, Shirakawago, Kyoto, Osaka, Himeji Castle and Hiroshima—showcasing some of Japan’s most iconic and culturally significant destinations.
As Japan’s dynamic capital, Tokyo offers an exciting mix of modern innovation, deep-rooted history, and world-class cuisine. From here, you will venture through a carefully curated route that immerses you in Japan’s past, from ancient temples and UNESCO World Heritage Sites to breathtaking mountain landscapes and preserved Edo-era villages.
Over the course of fourteen days, you will explore the towering Himeji Castle, immaculate Nikko Toshogu Shrine, the tranquil temples of Nara, the traditional streets of Kyoto, the beauty and tragedy of Hiroshima and the charming historic districts of Kanazawa. You’ll also experience the stunning Tojinbo Cliffs, the picturesque village of Shirakawago, and the animal paradise that is the "rabbit island" in Hiroshima.
Let this journey guide you through the cultural and natural wonders of Japan, leaving you with unforgettable memories of its heritage and landscapes!
Day 1 TOKYO
How to Start Off Your Day
Tokyo is the perfect place to begin your journey, offering a fascinating mix of tradition and modernity that will leave a lasting impression. Whether you're drawn to ancient temples, lively markets, or the latest in technology and fashion, the city offers an unforgettable experience. With accommodations ranging from luxurious high-rise hotels with panoramic views to charming boutique stays and traditional ryokan inns, Tokyo has something to suit every traveler’s style and budget.
For visitors looking for a central and well-connected base, areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Asakusa are popular choices. Shinjuku, in particular, is a vibrant district filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment options to suit every taste. As home to Tokyo’s busiest train station, it provides excellent transport links, making it easy to explore the city. Whether you’re seeking bustling nightlife, peaceful gardens, or world-class cuisine, Shinjuku is an exciting and convenient place to stay.
1 Day Walking Tour in Shinjuku and Kagurazaka / All Year Round
For this tour, you will enjoy travelling back in time to learn all about Shinjuku’s development from early Japan to present day at a local museum, setting the scene for the rest of your time in Shinjuku! The museum has life sized replicas of a traditional Japanese shop, house and train carriage where you can immerse yourself in old Tokyo and take great photos! Next, we will walk to one of Shinjuku’s beautiful local shrines hidden away from the fast paced centre of the city. This off the beaten path gem is a must see and is hard to spot unless you know where to look! Our final stop in Shinjuku will be at the very centre of this entertainment district where you will enjoy a guided tour and your lunch break to explore and eat at your leisure. Enjoy the skyscrapers, bright signs and high energy…and look out for Godzilla!
We will then take a short train journey to nearby Kagurazaka, one of Tokyo’s traditional yet trendy neighbourhoods with nods to the past steeped in history and culture. You will head to a beautiful Japanese garden and tea house to enjoy a traditional tea and Japanese sweet experience before having a guided tour of the area and some free time to shop and explore.
How to End Your Day
The tour ends at Iidabashi Station in the center of Tokyo and has excellent connections to all over the city. Even around this station there are plenty of options for dinner. Make sure to ask your guide for recommendations!
Day 2 MT. FUJI & KAWAGUCHIKO
How to Start Off Your Day
On this tour you'll be headed to the world famous Mt Fuji, viewing it from Lake Kawaguchiko. Meet your guide outside of Shinjuku Bus Terminal to start your adventure to see an iconic mountain and have an amazing experience!
Mount Fuji Day Trip : Adventure around Lake Kawaguchiko / All year round
This tour has been designed to ensure customers will have opportunities to see Mount Fuji from many impressive locations around the Lake Kawaguchiko area. If you love nature and spending time outdoors, this tour is for you! The tour will provide guests with a well balanced itinerary including nature, shrines and temples, a museum and great photography opportunities. Lake Kawaguchiko is the biggest of the five lakes that surround Mount Fuji, and it is therefore the best to visit for a day trip to experience as much as possible. Your tour will begin travelling from Shinjuku Express Bus Station in Tokyo to Kawaguchiko station. From there, you will use the sightseeing bus with your tour guide to explore Lake Kawaguchiko!
Your first stop will be at Lake Kawaguchiko’s nature park where you can enjoy a relaxing walk through a flower garden as you take in fantastic views of Mount Fuji and some shopping at a local centre to pick up the perfect souvenir of your day. Next, we will visit a famous and beautiful shrine complex that provides a sense of peace and more fantastic views of Mount Fuji. You will then enjoy some culture at a local art museum famous for its artistic kimonos all displaying beautiful scenes from nature and the four seasons. Finally, you will then travel on to enjoy a ropeway experience so you can sit back and relax as you take in the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and its largest lake. It will then be time to head back to Kawaguchiko station and take the bus back to Tokyo.
How to End Your Day
The tour will arrive back 19:45 at the same Shinjuku Bus Terminal you met your guide at so you'll be near Shinjuku Station and the middle of the city. There are of course a plethora of places to eat for dinner in the nearby area or if you just want to relax you can head back to your hotel easily.
Day 3 NIKKO
How to Start Off Your Day
Another great destination and long day as you meet your guide outside the Asakusa Ekimise Department Store at 8:40. Once everyone is together it's time to hop on the train for nice ride into the northern extremities of the Tokyo metro to Nikko and its magnificent shrine and natural beauty!
Explore Nikko’s World Heritage and National Park / April - October
Get out of Tokyo and step back in time to Tochigi prefecture and explore the world famous heritage site and national park of Nikko! If you want to see some of Japan’s most beautiful and culturally significant temples, shrines, traditional architecture and natural landmarks, then this tour is for you. With Nikko being two hours from Tokyo, it is the perfect day trip outside of the capital!
Granted World Heritage status in 1999, Nikko is considered the heritage hub in Japan due to its many temples and shrines rich in history with many an interesting tale to tell! It is also known for its national park nestled among the lush mountainous landscape sure to impress you and leave you feeling refreshed on your return to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo! Marvel at the gold gilded shrines, the intricate wood carvings and the nature that surrounds you as you make your way through Nikko’s World Heritage site with your tour guide!
How to End Your Day
You'll arrive back at the same location you started at 19:15 so it will definitely be time for some food, an onsen or relaxing at your hotel. Ask your guide for the best places to eat in the area. Don't forget that the Skytree is nearby and a great view at night!
Day 4 KAMAKURA
How to Start Off Your Day
Kamakura was once the location of a Shogunate and today you can see that in its temples, Buddhas and general traditional feel. Meet at outside of Shinjuku Station South Gate in front of the Baskin Robbins at 8:00 am to start the tour! This is your last day in Tokyo so it's recommended to either send your luggage to Kanazawa or put it into lockers somewhere near Shinjuku Station.
1 Day Trip to Kamakura and Enoshima : Shrines, Seaside, Temple and Tea / All Year Round
Enjoy a day trip from Tokyo in the neighbouring prefecture of Kanagawa, and explore two of its hotspots Kamakura and Enoshima! Kamakura is a popular day trip to do during your trip to Tokyo as it’s only just over 60 minutes away from Shinjuku station. This tour is a great opportunity to venture out and see a different part of Japan but with the ease of still being close to the city! Japanese locals especially love Kamakura and Enoshima due to its close proximity to the sea! So why don’t you take a break from the skyscrapers and bustling Metropolis of Tokyo, and come experience this slice of paradise!
On the tour you will learn all about Kamakura’s past and significance at its many shrines and temples, experience a traditional Japanese matcha and sweet experience in a Bamboo forest, feed Japanese Koi Carp, and walk Kamakura’s popular shopping street lined with restaurants, street food vendors and local crafts. In Enoshima, you will ride the iconic local train ’Enoden’ beloved by locals, take a walk along its beautiful coastline and finally go onto Enoshima island to see its shrine and observatory overlooking all of Kamakura and the sea!
How to End Your Day
Arrive back at Shinjuku Station and it's time to say goodbye to your guide and Tokyo in general. Grab your suitcase and head to one of the Shinkansen stations in the area: Tokyo, Ueno or Omiya Station. They are all on the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line that goes directly to Kanazawa. It's a 2.5-3.5 hour train ride so make sure to grab some food and drinks before hopping on!
Day 5 KANAZAWA
How to Start Off Your Day
Start your deep exploration of the Sea of Japan and mountains of central Japan by getting your bearings in Kanazawa. A city that was one of the most important during the Edo period, there are many traditional areas for geisha and samurai that you can still experience today. Feel immersed in a 200 year old tea houses, a garden manicured to perfection and the quiet streets of where samurai used to live on this full day tour of Kanazawa. Go deep into Japan and its history as you begin your amazing trip through this beautiful region. Meet your guide at 9am in Kanazawa Station to start your walking tour!
KANAZAWA MAIN SIGHTS TOUR / all year round
This tour has you walk in the same streets as those from times past. Walk the streets the samurai of the Kaga clan and see a warriors house from the Edo period. Relax and enjoy matcha in a tea house overlooking a beautiful garden next to the impressive castle walls. Stroll through the Kenroku-en garden like the daimyos of the Edo period and admire the artistry of the landscaping of not just the land but of the trees as well. Finally, walk through Higashi Chayamachi, the old geisha district, where you can shop, snack and take a tour of a former tea house that was used by actual geisha in the past.
How to End Your Day
The tour ends back in Kanazawa, where you can soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere. Spend your evening exploring dynamic neighborhoods and savoring local delicacies like oden, Kanazawa curry, hanton rice, and conveyor belt sushi. With accommodations ranging from luxurious hotels and modern resorts to traditional ryokan inns, Kanazawa offers the perfect stay for every preference—whether you prefer the convenience of the city center or the charm of a peaceful retreat.
Day 6 EIHEIJI TEMPLE
How to Start Off Your Day
The following day will begin from Kanazawa Station again but instead of staying in the city, heading to a place not as well traveled! Go deeper into the more spiritual side of Japan by visiting two temple and a shrine. Eiheiji Temple is located in the mountains of Fukui and despite being one of the head temples of Zen, is rarely visited by foreign travelers. Learn more about the interesting history of the area while walking around refreshingly stunning scenes that blend the human and spiritual world. Meet your guide at 8:30 at Kanazawa Station for your journey.
EIHEIJI & FUKUI CITY FROM KANAZAWA / all year round
As one of the head temples of the world famous Japanese Zen Buddhist sect, Eiheiji Temple is a place where you can feel the mystery and beauty of traditional architecture hidden in a natural paradise. On this tour you can choose start from either Kanazawa Station or Fukui Station. After grouping up at Fukui Station, we will take a tour of the city in the morning, seeing the castle walls, the "rainbow" shrine, and views of the city from the Atagozaka Slope. We will eat in the city before heading out on a direct bus to Eiheiji Temple. The ride into the mountains is about 30 minutes and we will arrive near the temple grounds. This area has had groupings of temples for over 500 hundred years and at its peak had thousands of monks living in the area. We will walk through the temple and learn about the history as we climb up deeper into the temple. There are many excellent photo spots to discover, too. The are so many interesting angles that catch the intertwining of nature and architecture all over the complex. Try to find the one that touches you the most!
How to End Your Day
The tour normally ends at Kanazawa Station at about 17:40, but feel free to stay in Fukui and have dinner before heading back. The oroshi soba and sauce-katsu rice bowl are amazing! If you want to eat in Kanazawa and are a bit tired from the day, try eating around the station. Kanazawa Station is famous for its conveyor belt sushi, with more four different restaurants right in the vicinity. Most of the restaurants have tablets that allow you to change the language to English so that makes for an easy night out!
Day 7 GOKAYAMA & SHIRAKAWAGO
How to Start Off Your Day
Time to go deep into the culture and traditions of Japan. Inami, the wood carving village; Gokayama, another UNESCO World Heritage Site; and Shirakawago the town fames for its nostalgic townscape will give you that sense of wonder that many people search for in the countryside of Japan! Meet at Kanazawa Station at 9am for the tour before heading to the bus.
SHIRAKAWA-GO, GOKAYAMA TOUR FROM KANAZAWA / all year round
Day Tour
Popular
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and Wood Carving Village
- Spots:
- KanazawaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Kanazawa
- Drop-off:
- TakayamaKanazawa
¥23,800 / 25,800
One of the most visited attractions in the region is the thatched-roof houses of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. On this tour you will hop on one of our charter buses and on the way there stop at a hidden gem of the area, Inami. This small town is famous for wood-carving, something you can see on display throughout the main thoroughfare that lead to Inami's crown, jewel, Zuisenji Temple. The carvings on this temple were done by a master carver over 200 years ago. We will then continue on to Gokayama to see some of the thatched-roofed house and get an excellent view of the small town. A paper-making experience is also waiting for you, using materials harvested in the town and techniques perfected over centuries. The last stop is Shirakawa-go where you can see the beautiful townscape and go into one of the homes to learn about the townspeople's way of life. There are also plenty of shops and stalls to enjoy!
How to End Your Day
Arrive back at Kanazawa Station around 18:00 just in time for dinner! either head back to your hotel or stick around the station for some great food! Ask your guide for some recommendations.
Day 8 TOJINBO CLIFFS
How to Start Off Your Day
The natural beauty of Japan doesn't stop at just the mountains, but the sea is just as amazing. See the stunning coastline in many different forms, especially crashing against the rocks. Meet your guide at Kanazawa Station at 8:45 to start your journey. This is the final day in Kanazawa so make sure to either forward your luggage to the next hotel or place it in lockers at Kanazawa Station.
TOJINBO CLIFFS / all year round
The coast of the Sea of Japan offers incredible variety, from golden beaches to dramatic, rugged cliffs. The Tojinbo area in northwest Fukui is famous for its striking rock formations, sheer cliffs, and a sacred island. This tour allows you to fully explore the region, including a visit to the historic Mikuni Port, once a thriving hub of trade. Stroll along the coastline, discover an uninhabited island, admire the towering cliffs, and visit temples or shrines designated as National Heritage Sites. Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty and rich history of this coastal treasure that began millions of years ago and continues to this day.
How to End Your Day
The tour gets back to Kanazawa Station at around 17:30 so have some dinner or grab a bento and hop on the train to Osaka/Kyoto. It takes about 2-2.5 hours and one transfer at Tsuruga. If you want
Day 9 KYOTO
How to Start Off Your Day
The tour starts at Kyoto Station, so if you are staying in Kyoto join the group there. For those who are staying in Osaka, getting to Kyoto Station takes anywhere from 25 to 45 minutes from Osaka Station. On the tour itself you'll explore some of the temples famous for their peacefulness and history. Relax and take your time learning about Buddhism and Japanese gardens!
Kyoto Heritage Path - From Fushimi Inari's Mystery to Kiyomizu Temple Majesty / All Year Round
Discover the essence of Kyoto with a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha, the Gion district, and Kiyomizudera. Begin at Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates leading up Mount Inari, creating a mystical and unforgettable path. Next, immerse yourself in the traditional charm of Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district, where you can wander through quaint streets lined with teahouses and possibly catch a glimpse of geiko and maiko. Conclude your journey at Kiyomizudera, a historic temple perched on a hillside, offering breathtaking views of Kyoto from its wooden terrace and featuring the renowned Otowa Waterfall.
How to End Your Day
Head back to Osaka or stay in Kyoto for dinner. Are you looking for nightlife in Kyoto? Check out Kiyamachi and Pontocho for izakayas, bars, restaurants and clubs for you to enjoy!
Day 10 NARA
How to Start Off Your Day
The old capital awaits you on this full day tour. It takes about 50 minutes on a direct train from both Osaka and Kyoto Stations. See all of the best sights in the city, along with the deer!
1-Day Walking Tour in Nara: Palace, Deer and Inkstick / All Year Round
Explore the cultural and historical treasures of Nara with our immersive day tours. Begin your journey at the Nara Palace Historical Park, where you can delve into the ancient history of Japan's first capital. Visit the awe-inspiring Todaiji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue, and wander through Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely. Experience the ancient art of inkstick making with a hands-on workshop, crafting your own traditional inkstick and learning about its significance in Japanese calligraphy. Conclude your tour at the tranquil Kasuga Taisha Shrine, offering a glimpse into Japan's spiritual traditions. Each tour provides a unique and memorable exploration of Nara's rich cultural heritage.
How to End Your Day
Nara is a great place to hang out at night and try some of the local bars and restaurants. There are also many traditional restaurants that are normally associated with cities like Kyoto.
Day 11 OSAKA
How to Start Off Your Day
Explore the city and one of its cool temples and the you'll try your hand at some ukiyoe, or woodblock printing. This tour is a nice way to get your bearings in Japan and the region with your knowledgeable guide leading you around central Osaka. Meet up at Shin-Osaka or Osaka Station at 9am to start the tour!
1-Day walking tour in Osaka：Castle, temples and Ukiyoe / All Year Round
Begin your journey in Osaka with our specially curated tour, perfect for first-time visitors. This introductory tour includes a visit to the historic Osaka Castle, where you can explore Japan's feudal past and marvel at the impressive architecture. Next, experience the tranquillity of Shitennoji Temple, one of Japan's oldest Buddhist temples. To cap off your day, enjoy a unique Ukiyo-e experience, delving into the traditional art of Japanese woodblock printing. This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Osaka, combining history, culture, and a hands-on artistic activity, making it an ideal start for any visitor.
How to End Your Day
The tour will end at Osaka Station at 17:00, central to the city, so you will have access to all the great places of Osaka. As it's the first night and you're probably tired, try having dinner in or around the station at the many department stores or malls! Osaka is especially famous for takoyaki, okonomiyaki and kushikatsu.
Day 12 HIMEJI
How to Start Off Your Day
You'll be seeing Himeji Castle, the largest and arguably the most impressive in all of Japan. In order to get to the start point of Himeji from Osaka you can either hop on a rapid train that takes about an hour or transfer to Shin-Osaka and take the 35 minute shinkansen to Himeji. Get ready to see the amazing castle and try indigo dyeing! Today is also the day for you to move from Osaka to Hiroshima so bring your luggage with you and drop it off in a coin locker in Himeji Station.
1-Day Walking Tour in Himeji : Castle, Garden and Aizome (Indigo Dyeing) / All Year Round
Discover the historical and cultural wonders of Himeji with our engaging day tour. Start your adventure at the magnificent Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture and well-preserved grounds. Stroll through the tranquil Kokoen Gardens, where you can enjoy beautifully landscaped gardens and traditional tea houses. Conclude your tour with a hands-on aizome (indigo dyeing) experience, where you will learn the traditional Japanese art of indigo dyeing and create your own unique piece. This tour offers a perfect combination of history, nature, and cultural immersion, making for an unforgettable day in Himeji.
How to End Your Day
The tour finishes at Himeji Station, so hop onto the Shinkansen head over to Hiroshima, taking about an hour.
Day 13 HIROSHIMA
How to Start Off Your Day
The last destination of the tour, Hiroshima has an amazing variation of nature and cityscapes, and tradition and modernity. This tour has you see some of the best that Hiroshima has to offer such as the Peace Park and Memorial, Japanese garden, Hiroshima castle and Itsukushima Shrine. Meet at Hiroshima Station at 9am to get together with your guide.
1 Day Walking Tour in Hiroshima & Miyajima / All Year Round
Operating all year round, this Hiroshima & Miyajima tour is designed so that those visiting Hiroshima for just one day are able to explore the prefecture's most famous and iconic locations. Starting within the city, guests will be able to tour important cultural spots such as the Shukkei-en garden and Hiroshima Castle. You will of course also be making a stop at Peace Memorial Park, where you will have the opportunity to learn about the impact that the atomic bomb had on Hiroshima and how the city was able to recover thereafter. The park is full of monuments dedicated to those who lost their lives due to the bombing, and it is also the place where one can find the emblematic Atomic Bomb Dome. Additionally, guests will be able to tour the Peace Memorial Museum, which displays the artifacts and stories of the bombing victims.
A visit to Hiroshima is of course not complete without a stop by Miyajima, a scenic island located not too far from the city. Miyajima is most well-known for its iconic "floating" O-torii gate and shrine; however, the island still has a lot more to offer. With plenty of delicious delicacies to sample, deer roaming around freely, a fantastic scenery, and many other shrines and temples to visit, Miyajima is without a doubt one of the most scenic locations in all of Japan, and a must-see for those visiting Hiroshima for the first time.
You can find out more information about this tour by clicking the "View Details" button above. Or, if you've already made up your mind and are interested in joining us, click the "Book Now" button and get ready to enjoy the best that Hiroshima has to offer!
How to End Your Day
After a long and busy day seeing all the top sights make sure to get yourself some okonomiyaki for dinner! There are restaurants everywhere in the city. Your tour arrives back at the station at 17:30 so there is plenty of time to search for a place or ask your guide for some recommendations.
Day 14 TAKEHARA
How to Start Off Your Day
Meet up at Hiroshima Station at 8am to start your journey to a lesser-known traditional streetscape and then the famous rabbit island! There is so much history in this region that most people miss and this is the perfect way to finish up a two week blast through Japan.
1-Day Tour: Takehara Historical Townscape, Sake Tasting & Rabbit Island / All Year Round
Are you prepared for a fluffy and adorable adventure? If so, then look no further than this 1-Day Takehara & Rabbit Island Tour! Guests will visit Takehara, a charming and beautiful city within Hiroshima Prefecture, which is home to both a historical townscape area and the famous "Rabbit Island." Within the old townscape, you will be able to learn about city's history as a major site of sake and salt production. Of course, you will also get the opportunity to taste some of this emblematic sake as well. On Rabbit Island, which is located just a short ferry ride away from the port, you will then feed and interact with the large wild rabbit population of the island. While you do so, you will also discover the many military ruins which litter the island and unveil the dark past of this otherwise charming location.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn more about the history of Hiroshima while enjoying some sake, exploring an old-fashioned townscape, and hanging out with cute bunnies all day!
How to End Your Day
And that's it for this itinerary! You can head back to Tokyo by Shinkansen or continue on to Fukuoka. There are so many options for you to go even deeper after this thorough series of tours on what is considered the New Golden Route. See some more ideas below!
