Places You'll See
Highlights
- Adventure & Exploration: The itinerary seamlessly blends outdoor activities such as exploring the historic island of Miyajima, and walking the historic streets of the traditional neighbourhood of Yanesen in Tokyo. There are many opportunities to immerse yourself in nature and history.
- Cultural Immersion: By witnessing the ancient sport of Sumo, visiting the impressive Daruma temple in Osaka, to experiencing tea ceremony in Tokyo, you’ll have a deep connection with Japan’s rich history, culture, and traditions along the way.
- Breathtaking Landscapes: From the beautiful temples of Kyoto, the serene coastline of Ise, to witnessing the UNESCO Heritage Site of Hiroshima Peace Memorial and Atomic Bomb Dome, this itinerary offers diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes that highlight the beauty of Japan
Description
For most people travelling to Japan, they will visit and stay in Tokyo during their trip! For this reason, Tokyo is seen as the gateway to exploring Japanese heritage and culture, but is also the perfect location to visit the other amazing regions of Japan! For any first timer’s or return visitors to Japan, we have created a number of itineraries to help inspire your travels and help you tailor your trip to suit your preferences and interests. For this itinerary we suggest a 8 day plan that covers the golden route of Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Hiroshima and Nagoya. This itinerary is perfect for first time travellers as an introduction to the wonders of Japan, but is also a good balance of different regions and attractions to make any travellers happy. We hope this will help you when planning where to go and what to do on your dream trip!
For travellers who want to visit the most famous and iconic attractions along Japan’s Golden Route, this 8 day itinerary will provide just that. You will be able to enjoy the lively side of Tokyo in Shinjuku and Shibuya, the stunning heritage sites of Kyoto, see the impressive sport of Sumo, witness Deer roaming on the island of Miyajima, see a breathtaking shrine in Nagoya and a Castle in Osaka, experience a nostalgic neighbourhood in Tokyo, and so much more!
Day 1 SHINJUKU AND SHIBUYA
How to Start Off Your Day
Tokyo is the perfect starting point for your journey, offering a vibrant blend of tradition and innovation that will captivate and inspire you from the moment you arrive. Whether you're drawn to its historic temples, bustling streets, or cutting-edge technology, Tokyo provides an unforgettable introduction to the wonders of Japan. Plus, the city offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every preference and budget. From luxurious 5-star hotels with stunning skyline views to cozy boutique guesthouses and traditional ryokan inns, you're sure to find the perfect place to rest after a day of exploration.
For many travellers, the areas of Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo, and Asakusa are very popular as they are very central, offer great hotels and links to transport. Check out our Tokyo destination page for more information on where to stay. We highly recommend staying in the Shinjuku area. A lively hub and one of the most popular areas in the city, Shinjuku has a plethora of shops, restaurants, cafes and hotels to suit all tastes. Shinjuku is also home to the busiest station in all of Tokyo, but it offers incredible links to every part of the city
1 Day Walking Tour in Shinjuku and Shibuya - All Year Round
This tour will give you the opportunity to experience both traditional culture and pop culture in Tokyo, combining two of the cities most famous and popular areas, Shinjuku and Shibuya. If you’re low on time, and want to experience two of Tokyo’s hot spots, this is the perfect tour for you. The tour will provide guests with a well balanced itinerary including a museum, a garden and park, shrines, famous landmarks and modern architecture.
* Tour does not include transportation before or after the tour, and does not include accommodation. Customers will need to book their own transportation to reach their next destination.
How to End Your Day
End your day at approximately 16.30pm in the centre of Tokyo in the vibrant area of Shibuya. After the tour, take your time to explore more of what the city has to offer! In Shibuya there is an excellent selection of shops, restaurants, bars and cafes to choose from. Shibuya is famous for its nightlife and entertainment, so you are sure to find something to suit you! We highly recommend getting some dinner, and checking out the nearby Shibuya Sky Observation Deck as a nice evening activity. However, make sure to plan ahead and book tickets as they can sell out quickly!
Recommended Accommodation
Day 2 TOKYO HIGHLIGHTS AND SUMO
How to Start Off Your Day
Wake up fresh in Tokyo. Today you will have the entire day to explore some of Tokyo’s top attractions. Upon arrival at Hamacho Station, your guide will greet you and take you on a memorable tour where you will start by watching Sumo training!
Tokyo Highlights Tour / All Year Round
This tour gives guests the opportunity to experience much of the traditional and iconic culture associated with Japan and Tokyo. You will have the opportunity to see Sumo Wrestlers train, try the freshest and best Sushi and street food in Tokyo, walk through a traditional Japanese garden and visit a tea house, walk around an historic Buddhist temple complex and park, and finally pay a visit to one of Tokyo’s most famous observation decks – Tokyo Tower.
* Tour does not include transportation before or after the tour, and does not include accommodation. Customers will need to book their own transportation to reach their next destination.
How to End Your Day
The tour will conclude in Tokyo at approximately 4/4.30pm which will provide you with time to travel to your next destination at a reasonable hour. Your tour guide will happily assist you with any questions or tickets regarding your onward destination. In Tokyo you are well connected to transport options to reach your next destination. For customers heading onto Kyoto from Tokyo, you will need to go to Tokyo station to get your Bullet Train. You will need to book the ‘Tokaido Shinkansen’ and the journey will take between 135 minutes to 160-minutes. Please read our guide below for further details on how to reach Nagano from Tokyo.
With a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget hotels, luxury hotels, to traditional ryokan inns, you’ll find the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a comfortable stay in Kyoto. For many travellers, the area around Kyoto station is very popular as it is central, offers great hotels and links to transport. Check out our the Kyoto station area page below for more information on where to stay.
Recommended Accommodation
Day 3 KYOTO
How to Start Off Your Day
Wake up in Kyoto! Today you will have the entire day to explore the beautiful city of Kyoto. Upon arrival at Kyoto Station, your guide will greet you and take you on a memorable tour through the city’s historic and cultural highlights.
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.
* Tour does not include transportation before or after the tour, and does not include accommodation. Customers will need to book their own transportation to reach their next destination.
How to End Your Day
The tour will conclude in Kyoto at approximately 5pm which will provide you with time to travel to your next destination at a reasonable hour. Your tour guide will happily assist you with any questions or tickets regarding your onward destination. In Kyoto station you are well connected to transport options to reach your next destination. For customers heading onto Osaka from Kyoto, you have two options from Kyoto station. You can either book the ‘Tokaido Shinkansen’ which will take only 13 minutes to reach Shin-Osaka station, or the JR Special Rapid Service bound for Nagahama which takes around 28 minutes. Please read our guide below for further details on how to reach Nagano from Tokyo.
With a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget hotels to luxury hotels, you’ll find the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a comfortable stay in Osaka. For many travellers, the area around Shin-Osaka station is very popular as it is central, offers great hotels and links to transport. Check out our the Shin-Osaka station area page below for more information on where to stay.
Recommended Accommodation
Day 4 OSAKA
How to Start Off Your Day
Wake up in Osaka ready to explore! Today you will venture to see some of Osaka’s cultural gems. Your guide will greet you and take you on a memorable tour through the city’s historic and cultural highlights, including the amazing Osaka Castle!
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.
* Tour does not include transportation before or after the tour, and does not include accommodation. Customers will need to book their own transportation to reach their next destination.
How to End Your Day
The tour will conclude at Shin-Osaka station at approximately 5pm which will provide you with time to travel to your next destination at a reasonable hour. Your tour guide will happily assist you with any questions or tickets regarding your onward destination. At Shin-Osaka station you are well connected to transport options to reach your next destination. For customers heading onto Hiroshima from Shin-Osaka, you will need to use the ‘San’yo Shinkansen’ which will takes between 80 minutes - 115 minutes to reach Hiroshima station depending on which service you book. Please read our guide below for further details on how to reach Hiroshima from Shin-Osaka.
With a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget hotels to luxury hotels, you’ll find the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a comfortable stay in Hiroshima. For many travellers, the area around Hiroshima station is very popular as it is central, offers great hotels and links to transport. Check out our the Hiroshima station area page below for more information on where to stay.
Recommended Accommodation
Day 5 HIROSHIMA AND MIYAJIMA
How to Start Off Your Day
Wake up fresh in Hiroshima! Today, you will have the entire day to explore the great city of Hiroshima and the nearby island of Miyajima. Upon arrival at Hiroshima Station, your guide will greet you and take you on a memorable tour through the city’s historic and cultural highlights, including the UNESCO Heritage Site of the Peace Memorial and Atomic Bomb Dome. You will then venture over to Miyajima island to witness its beauty and charm.
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!
* Tour does not include transportation before or after the tour, and does not include accommodation. Customers will need to book their own transportation to reach their next destination.
How to End Your Day
The tour will conclude at Hiroshima station outside of the Bullet Train gates at approximately 5.30pm which will provide you with time to travel to your next destination at a reasonable hour. Your tour guide will happily assist you with any questions or tickets regarding your onward destination. At Hiroshima station you are well connected to transport options to reach your next destination. For customers heading onto Kobe from Hiroshima, you will need to use the ‘San’yo Shinkansen’ which will takes between 70 minutes - 110 minutes to reach Shin-Kobe station depending on which service you book. Please read our guide below for further details on how to reach Kobe from Hiroshima.
Being a Port City, Kobe offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget hotels to luxury hotels with amazing views. You’ll find the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a comfortable stay in Kobe. For many travellers, the area around Shin-Kobe station is very popular as it is central, offers great hotels and links to transport.
Recommended Accommodations
Day 6 KOBE
How to Start Off Your Day
Wake up in Kobe. Today you will have the entire day to explore the amazing Port City of Kobe. Upon arrival at Shin-Kobe Station, your guide will greet you and take you on a memorable tour to enjoy Kobe’s historic and cultural highlights.
1-Day Walking Tour around Kobe : Mountains, Sea and Sake / All Year Round
Experience the best of Kobe with our comprehensive day tour. Begin with a visit to the serene Herb Gardens, where you can enjoy panoramic views and aromatic plants. Explore the historic Ikuta Shrine, a peaceful oasis in the city. Indulge in a sake tasting session in the renowned Nada district, famous for its high-quality breweries. Stroll through the vibrant Harborland area, taking in scenic waterfront views and diverse shopping opportunities. This tour offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and modern attractions, showcasing the unique charm and beauty of Kobe.
* Tour does not include transportation before or after the tour, and does not include accommodation. Customers will need to book their own transportation to reach their next destination.
How to End Your Day
The tour will conclude at Shin-Kobe station at approximately 4.30pm which will provide you with time to travel to your next destination at a reasonable hour. Your tour guide will happily assist you with any questions or tickets regarding your onward destination. At Shin-Kobe station you are well connected to transport options to reach your next destination. For customers heading onto Nagoya from Shin-Kobe, you can book services bound for Tokyo which will stop at Nagoya. The journey takes between 63 minutes - 68 minutes to reach Nagoya station depending on which service you book. Alternatively, you can also travel from nearby Osaka and Kyoto. Please read our guide below for further details on how to reach Nagoya from Shin-Kobe station.
Nagoya offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget hotels to luxury hotels, and traditional Ryokan. You’ll find the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a comfortable stay in Nagoya. For many travellers, the area around Nagoya station is very popular as it is central, offers great hotels and links to transport. Check out our the Nagoya station area page below for more information on where to stay.
Recommended Accommodation
Day 7 NAGOYA AND ISE
How to Start Off Your Day
Wake up fresh in Nagoya! Today, you will have the entire day to explore the great area of nearby Ise. Upon arrival at Nagoya Station, your guide will greet you and take you on a memorable tour through Ise to see the historic and cultural highlights, as well as the stunning coastline and seaside shrine of Ise.
1- Day Tour from Nagoya: Ise’s Sacred Shrines and Captivating Coastlines / All Year Round
Located not far from Nagoya, Ise is blessed with abundant natural beauty, from towering cypress groves to indented coastlines and mountains painted in colorful foliage. The region is also home to Japan’s most sacred shrine, Ise-Jingu. Touring these sacred grounds is a special opportunity to understand the heart and soul of the Japanese people.
On our 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Ise’s Sacred Shrines and Captivating Coastlines you'll marvel at the natural beauty of the region and refresh your body and soul with spiritual experiences and delicious cuisine as you are led by an experienced, English-speaking guide from Nagoya on this full-day tour.
* Tour does not include transportation before or after the tour, and does not include accommodation. Customers will need to book their own transportation to reach their next destination.
How to End Your Day
The tour will conclude at Nagoya station at approximately 5.30pm which will provide you with time to travel to your next destination at a reasonable hour. Your tour guide will happily assist you with any questions or tickets regarding your onward destination. At Nagoya station you are well connected to transport options to reach your next destination. For customers heading onto Tokyo from Nagoya, you can book Bullet Train services bound for Tokyo. The journey takes between 100 minutes - 120 minutes to reach Tokyo station depending on which service you book. Please read our guide below for further details on how to reach Tokyo from Nagoya station.
With a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget hotels to luxurious hotels you’ll find the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a comfortable stay in Tokyo. For many travellers, the areas of Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo, and Asakusa are very popular as they are very central, offer great hotels and links to transport. Check out our Tokyo destination page for more information on where to stay. We highly recommend staying in the Shinjuku area. A lively hub and one of the most popular areas in the city, Shinjuku has a plethora of shops, restaurants, cafes and hotels to suit all tastes. Shinjuku is also home to the busiest station in all of Tokyo, but it offers incredible links to every part of the city. For the ‘Yanesen’ tour the next day, we recommend you take the JR Yamanote Line from Shinjuku station to Nippori station where you will meet your tour guide. The journey is has no changes, and takes 22 minutes.
Recommended Accommodation
Day 8 TOKYO ‘YANESEN’
How to Start Off Your Day
Wake up fresh in Tokyo for your final day of the trip! Today you will have the entire day to explore the amazing area of ‘Yanesen’ in Tokyo. Upon arrival at Nippori Station, your guide will greet you and take you on a memorable tour of three beautiful neighbourhoods to enjoy their historic, cultural and nature highlights. This is a slower paced tour, so please enjoy the relaxing and leisurely atmosphere.
Walking Tour in Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi / All Year Round
This tour will give you the opportunity to take in the sights and experiences of traditional and old Tokyo on this walking tour. Known as ’Yanesen’ in Tokyo, the trio of Yanaka, Nezu and Sendagi make up this area and have retained their old ‘Shitamachi’ (lower city) style, architecture and charm, despite being a stone’s throw away from some of the well known metropolis areas of Tokyo. If on your trip to Tokyo you want a chance to step off the tourist trail and see a different side to this amazing city, then ’Yanesen’ must be added to your Tokyo itinerary! The tour will provide guests with a well balanced itinerary including a museum, a park and nature, shrines and temples, a cultural experience and traditional architecture.
The tour will start by visiting Yanaka, a historic and artistic area, and a perfect example of a Shitamachi in Japan. A cosy and traditional neighbourhood not many tourists know about, you will step back in time and enjoy an atmosphere that is very different to many parts of Tokyo. Next, you will visit Sendagi known for its temples and park. Finally, you will visit Nezu to see one of Tokyo’s most beautiful shrines.
* Tour does not include transportation after the tour, and does not include accommodation. Customers will need to book their own transportation to reach their next destination.
How to End Your Day
End your day staying in Tokyo for your final night and relax! Take your time to explore more of what the city has to offer! There a good selection of restaurants, bars and cafes to choose from in the Yanesen area, or for a more lively atmosphere head to nearby Ueno or Shinjuku.
