Overview
On this tour we will be going to places which have influenced, shaped, and defined Japan. The tour will begin in Tokyo, the capital and most populated metropolis in the world. Beyond the alluring neon light signs advertising the plethora of businesses is traditional centers that have withstood the test of time.
Our next stop is to Hakone one of the most famous places for onsens (hot springs). The town served as getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. Scenic views of Mt. Fuji, unique boat cruise around Lake Ashi, volcanic fumes of Owakudani, and Open Air Museum are some of the reasons why Hakone is a great stop.
Next is the traditional heart of Japan, Kyoto. The city maintains its traditional roots despite the modernization of many other areas. Kyoto has influenced the culture and politics in the country for over 1000 years. Bask in the presence of the historical monuments, structures, districts, and streets, which have been carefully preserved.
Last stop for the trip is the first permanent capital Nara. The city is most known for the largest Daibutsu (Great Buddha) in Japan and can be found in the Todaiji Temple. Past the walls of the temple is Nara Park where there are over 1000 free roaming deer. Nara marked the beginning of establishing a centralized government and developing the culture in the country.

DAY 1 : Welcome to Tokyo
Welcome to Tokyo! Make your own way to your hotel in Tokyo by train or Airport Limousine Bus, we will provide full instructions in advance.
Note: If you would like the meet and greet or private hotel transfer to be included, please contact us for the arrangement.
Overnight stay at Tokyo Hotel

DAY 2 : Tokyo – The City with a Mix of the Past and Present
Today we will enjoy a private Tour of Tokyo, the largest populated metropolis in the world. As modernized as the city may be there are still aspects of its traditional history present. As you tour around Tokyo you will have an expert local guide to bring you to the best tourist spots. The sightseeing schedule is fully up to you and is flexible to the needs of the group.
For temples and shrines we recommend visiting Asakusa Sensoji Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo, and Meiji Jingu Shrine, the place where Emperor Meiji and his wife are enshrined. You can also roam around the outer grounds of the Imperial Palace, the current residency of the Imperial family. If you looking for a deeper look into the
history of Japan then why not pay a visit to the Edo Tokyo Museum?
There are many shopping options available in Tokyo, but depending on your preference can lead you to different parts of the city. High end name brand items can be found in Ginza, extreme fashion style clothing are in Harajuku, otaku (geek) products can be bought in Akihabara, and Shibuya is the middle ground between all your shopping needs.
Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan and offers great views of the city from its observatory. There are shops as well as an aquarium located in the area. Not interested in the tower? Then how about going to the man-made island known as Odaiba? On the island there are many entertainment options available in addition to the famed Rainbow Bridge.
Breakfast
Overnight stay at Tokyo Hotel

DAY 3 : Hakone – A National Park with the Best Views of Mt. Fuji
Traverse Hakone, an iconic hot spring destination, by public transportation like the Hakone Tozan Cable Car or enjoy a bird’s eye view from the Hakone Ropeway. As a national park you will be greeted with magnificent views of the surrounding nature. Complementing the natural beauty are great museums like the Open Air Museum that we will be visiting. As we take a soothing Boat Cruise on Lake we will have the chance to see the awe inspiring Mt. Fuji in the distance if the weather permits it. As the day comes to a close we will have the chance to relax in the onsen (hot spring) at a ryokan (Japanese traditional inn) in Atami Onsen. Soak in the therapeutic waters and feel your body being rejuvenated. Afterwards enjoy a Japanese Kaiseki (seasonal) banquet dinner that will give you a chance to taste the ingredients of the season.
Breakfast / Dinner
Overnight stay at Hakone Hotel.

DAY 4 & 5: Kyoto – The Heart of Traditional Japan
Our day starts with a trip on the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto, the traditional and cultural center of Japan. For over 1000 years Kyoto has influenced politics and culture in the country. It was the former capital before Edo (Tokyo). When the feudal age came to an end much of the nation was set to modernized, but the city set out to preserve its proud history. As a traditional center the history, religion, and culture remained unembellished. For two days you will have a private guide to take you to the most desired locations.

There are many sites to see in Kyoto and can be broken down into Southern, Eastern, Central, Northern, and Arashiyama districts. No matter where you choose to visit each site has a priceless historical value that will leave you in awe. Just for quick reference Fushimi Inari Shrine has over 1000 torii gates; Tofukuji Temple has the Hojo Garden that surrounds all four sides of the building, Kiyomizudera Temple has the stage and main hall that was built without nails, Kinkakuji Temple is known as the Golden Pavilion, Arashiyama has the photogenic bamboo grove, and Gion is where you can find the Geisha district.
Breakfast
Overnight stay at Kyoto Hotel

DAY 6 : Nara – Japan’s First Permanent Capital with Excellent Examples of Traditional Architecture
Located about 1 hour away from Kyoto is the first permanent capital, Nara. The city marks the change in history where a centralized government was established because before the capital would change locations when the Emperor passed away. During this time the culture in Japan had time to develop and evolve, which can be seen in the architecture and other structure that have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There you can see the largest bronze Daibutsu (Great Buddha) in the iconic Todaiji Temple. Surrounding the temple is Nara Park where there are over 1000 free roaming deer, which are regarded as deities of the city. The short reign of the Nara Period gave way for cultural change in the nation and left its mark in history. The sites in the city signify a beginning that is often forgotten, but well preserved.
Breakfast
Overnight stay at Nara Hotel

DAY 7 : Tour Ends
After check-out, make your own way by Haruka Airport Express Train or Airport Limousine Bus to Osaka Kansai Airport for your departure flight.

Note: If you would like the private airport transfer to be included, please contact us for the arrangement.
Breakfast