15 Days AnimeJapan | Grand

Day 1 Tokyo | Arrive in Japan & Check-in Hotel

Welcome to Japan! We will have transportation services to take you to your hotel. Please refer to your tour app for more information.
Rest at the hotel and be ready to start your exciting tour tomorrow.

**INFORMATION**
From Narita Airport to downtown hotel in Tokyo - about 90 mins(Bus)
From Haneda Airport to downtown hotel in Tokyo - about 30 mins(Bus)

Day 2 Tokyo | The Ghibli Museum & Akihabara's Trendy Anime Shopping

Today, we kick our anime tour off by heading to the Electronic Town of Akihabara. Before we head to the main shopping area, we will take a brief walk to the anime-famous Kanda Shrine. Famously featured in anime such as Love Live! and collaborating with hit anime & manga like My Hero Academia, Kanda Shrine is the only shrine to offer good luck charms for electronics and anime characters.

We make our way back to the main street where you can enjoy shopping at some of the most popular otaku destinations, including Animate. Animate carries all kinds of character goods, electronics, and games from current and popular anime/manga series. There's plenty of free time in Akihabara, so Japan Deluxe Tours recommends exploring Super Potato for vintage games, SEGA arcade, visit a Maid Cafe, or just explore the area.

After our adventures in Akihabara, we will visit the anime specialized shopping complex: Nakano Broadway. Explore the many stores dedicated to anime and otaku goods or try the eight-layer ice-cream they serve downstairs!

We then head to Mitaka for a visit to the famed Ghibli Museum. This animation and art museum exhibits the works of Miyazaki Hayao, creator of world renown animated films such as My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, and Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea. Ghibli Studio fans will certainly enjoy the artistic museum, which not only exhibits the history and techniques of animation but also plays short movies in a theater room, produced exclusively for the museum.

The tour will end the day at Shibuya Parco. It has the latest anime spot called Cyberspace Shibuya which has become a popular spot in recent years. You can find the very first Nintendo shop, Nintendo Tokyo, the stylish Pokemon Center Shibuya, Capcom store, Jump shop and much more.

Day 3 Tokyo | AnimeJapan Festival & Ninja Experience

Today’s the big day of the international anime convention – AnimeJapan! Join the many cosplayers and anime lovers in the biggest Anime event in the world. Everything from anime, manga, figurines, to video games, guest speakers, and event exclusive merchandise are all accessible. Enjoy your day exploring the grounds and meeting people with the same passion as you!

You can also go to Small World Tokyo (additional cost required). The attraction specializes in miniature models all made to scale. Not your typical models, Small Worlds has created unique worlds based on fantasy and space exploration as well as special models based on Sailor Moon and Evangelion. With moving parts within each model, feel as though you are truly watching each world in real time.

Your tour group will then assemble again at 2PM and head to the iconic 72 ft Unicorn Gundam Model. Replacing the previously standing 59 ft RX-78-2 Gundam, the Unicorn Gundam at the Tokyo Gundam Base is a must for any fan of Gundam or Japan's Robot Culture.

Next, we will head to the unique and interactive Ninja Trick House. You will learn about the way of the Ninja, touch a Japanese sword, throw Shuriken star blades, and take pictures with Ninja to complete your own ninja training regimen.

After a busy afternoon, the tour will take you to have a short break with Godzilla! Located on the rooftop, Godzilla has found home in Shinjuku at Café Bonjour for the time being. Here, enjoy a Godzilla themed cake set with your choice of drink. Once done, you can take pictures of/with the HUGE Godzilla.

Day 4 Tokyo | At your Leisure & Optional Excursions

We've cleared up the day for you to enjoy at your leisure or opt for a day at either Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea. Note: Additional fees & costs will apply for arrangements to Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea.

Day 5 Tokyo | Trendy Anime meets Historic Asakusa

We start off our Tokyo tour with a visit to Tokyo's Tsukiji Fish Market, the former home of the world-famous tuna auction. Browse through the freshest flavors, mouth-watering dishes, and incredible sushi meals at this market that serves over thousands of businesses and local families daily before we explore the rest of the sights in Tokyo!

Then we are off to discover Harajuku to explore the famous Takeshita Street. The area is filled with cute shops, delicious crepes, high end stores, and beautiful cafés and restaurants. Don't forget to check out the Cat Café and Headgehog café for those who love animals. Anime fans may recall Takeshita Street from scenes featured in Death Note.

We will then make our way to the famous Shibuya Crosswalk to be part of the thousands who cross daily. This crosswalk gathers as much foot traffic as New York City, and crossing is an experience unlike any other. We will also visit the popular Hachiko Statue close to the station. The statue is based on the internationally-known story of Hachiko, the dog who would come back to the station every day to see his owner. As an iconic area, the crosswalk and surrounding areas are often featured in animes, most notably Tokyo Ghoul and Tokyo Ravens.

For lunch, enjoy a Japanese seasonal dining experience. The tour will then head to the old town district of Asakusa where you can purchase traditional Japanese souvenirs at the Nakamise area and explore Senso-ji Temple, the oldest and the most popular temples in Tokyo. Being another must-see landmark, Asakusa shows up in various animes as well like Demon Slayer, Fire Force, and Sarazanmai.

Day 6 Hakone | Immerse in Traditional Japanese Culture

Our first stop is the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Enjoy seeing statures, strolling through beautiful nature in the stunning landscape of Hakone. After spending our morning in fresh air, we will have Hoto, a hot udon noodle dish served in an iron cast pot that is the perfect comfort food.

Next, we have a relaxing ride on the Hakone Ropeway down to Owakudani Valley. The ropeway provides a scenic view of the Hakone area and, if weather permits, Mt. Fuji. We will explore Owakudani for a short amount of time when you arrive, giving you enough time to marvel at the active natural volcanic vents as well as try the black egg. Boiled in one of the vents, it is said that eating one of these eggs will add 7 years to your life! We will also visit the Hakone Shrine. You may also recognize the shrine in the iconic Neon Genesis Evangelion series.

Your Japan tour would not be complete without a long relaxing soak in the onsen (Japanese hot springs), to rejuvenate you for tomorrow’s adventure. An informal, cotton Kimono or Yukata will be provided for you to wear at the ryokan. Your vacation's ryokan includes a hot-spring onsite to enjoy at your leisure during your night's accommodation.

Day 7 Kyoto & Nara | Meet & Greet the friendly Deer of Nara

Our day begins with a bullet train ride to Kyoto. The bullet train is the fastest way to travel on land and is considered an essential Japanese experience. Enjoy riding to Kyoto in comfort and speed, and be sure to take some photos of the scenery during your ride.

Upon arrival in Kyoto, we will stop for a kaiten sushi lunch and at a sake museum for some sampling and to learn the history of Japan's national drink.

Afterwards, it's off to Nara to Todaiji Temple. Todaiji Temple holds the World Guinness Record as the largest wooden building. Inside the temple, you will behold the largest Buddha statue in Japan. Just outside the temple is the Nara Deer Park, where you will be greeted by numerous deer that roam around freely. The deer here at the park are known to be friendly and may even bow at you for a little treat.

We end the evening at Kyoto Station for an illumination light show, projected on the staircase of the station. The light shows are often themed after traditional aspects of Japanese culture as well as highlighting the city of Kyoto as well.

Day 8 Kyoto | Breathtaking Maiko Show & Bamboo Forest

Today, our Kyoto tour begins with a visit to Arashiyama. The morning's sunlight passing through the bamboo makes for a perfect morning sight. We will also enjoy a spirited rickshaw ride through the bamboo grove. You will be welcomed by the friendly smiles of the Rickshaw drivers who are both entertaining and very knowledgeable. They will also take amazing pictures for you in the Bamboo forest that you will want to show all your friends back home.

Following our time in Arashiyama, we will head to the Golden Pavilion, or Kinkakuji Temple, a Japan’s must see attraction where the two upper floors are covered in gold leaf. The reflection of the golden temple on the lake adds to the stunning sight. Kinkakuji has also been featured in popular anime series K-ON! and Seitokai Yakuindomo.

Next, enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience with a Maiko lunch. Maiko are apprentice to Geisha. During the lunch, you will able to see her perform Japanese traditional dances, chances to take photos, and ask questions about her life as a Maiko. It is a great opportunity to learn about Kyoto's traditional culture.

We will then head to Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of Kyoto's many can't miss destinations that features hundreds of red torii gates. The path is perfect for photos or to just calm your mind. You will be sure to find very familiar scenery as the shrine is the main stage for Inari Kon Kon, Koi Iroha. You can also find fox masks similar to those featured in Demon Slayer as well!

Our last stop of the day will be the ancient street of Ninenzaka. The street is filled with shops and souvenir stands as well as a great place for photos and to see what Japan looked like many years ago. We will also partake in a hands-on lesson on the tea ceremony. Learn about the history and meaning behind the ceremony as you watch it being performed before your eyes. Try your hand at making a traditional cup of matcha! We then proceed to the hotel.

Day 9 Himeji | UNESCO Certified White Heron Castle

Today, we will travel further west to visit two of the best places in Japan. The first will be the magnificent Himeji Castle. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, it is considered one of Japan’s most beautiful castle. Nicknamed the White Heron Castle due to the castle’s brilliant white walls, the castle maintains almost all of its original structures since its construction in the early 1600’s. After overcoming war, natural disasters, and going through restorative work, enjoy exploring around the stunning castle grounds.

In Hiroshima, Okonomiyaki (Japanese style savory pancakes) has been a popular dish since before the World War. We will serve you this local favorite for today's dinner.

Day 10 Hiroshima | the Iconic Floating Shrine of Japan

Today, we will make our way to Hiroshima for a visit to several iconic sites. A visit to Hiroshima is not complete without a visit to the iconic A-Bomb Dome, the only surviving building from the aftermath of World War Two's atomic bombing. Surrounding the magnificent A-Bomb Dome is the Peace Memorial Park where travelers can see and read about the history of the war. The A-Bomb Dome has been preserved as a reminder of the tragedy for future generations and to symbolize its wishes for everlasting peace. Walk along the park with your tour guide to see famous attractions like Sadako’s statue and the Freedom Bell. Then we will go into the Peace Memorial Museum.

In the afternoon, our Japan Tour will head to Miyajima, an island south of Hiroshima known for its Itsukushima Shrine, or floating torii gate. During high tide, the torii gate looks as though it is floating in water, creating a unique sight, considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful sights. Miyajima is also known for its mouthwatering momiji manju (maple leaf shaped cake with red beans) and delicious oysters which you can enjoy while your tour group explores scenic island.

Day 11 Nagasaki | The Marvelous Dutch-Inspired Glover Garden

Our day begins in Nagasaki where we will be visiting several historically significant locations. The first stop will be the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Park, a symbol of peace and a testament to the horrors of war. The Peace Statue sits at the epicenter of the blast from the atomic bomb dropped on the city. The right hand points up to symbolize the atomic bomb while the left hand points towards future peace. The statue's bent right leg symbolizes meditation, while the bent left leg represents the need to stand up against war. The closed eyes are to offer prayers and respect for the victims' souls lost in the devastation blast.

We will serve a local favorite champon and sara udon for today's lunch. Both champon and sara udon are noodle dishes that originated in Nagasaki.

From there, our vacation will head to Glover Garden which exhibits Western style mansions. Glover Garden has also been accurately depicted in several anime series such as Iroduku: The World in Color and Wind -a breath of heart-. After viewing these gorgeous mansions, we will continue with our foreign influences to the Oura Catholic Church. The Oura Catholic Church is Japan’s oldest standing Catholic church. This was added to UNESCO World Herrtage Site as Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region in 2018. The popular Fate/stay night has featured Oura Church in its series as well.

Day 12 Kumamoto & Takachiho | the Myths come alive at Takachiho Gorge

Our day begins in Kumamoto to see Kumamoto Castle. Kumamoto Castle is considered one of the three premier castles in Japan, along with Himeji Castle and Matsumoto Castle. Since it suffered tremendous damage from 2016 earthquake, we won't be able enter the castle grounds due to renovations. However, we will be able to see the castle and explore Johsaien, a shopping arcade by Kumamoto Caslte filled with over 20 shops and the Wakuwaku-za museum featuring the history and culture of Kumamoto and the famous Japanese Castle.

We make our way to Takachiho where the group will explore the Awano Iwato Shrine and Amanoyasukawara. The area is said to be the hiding spot of the Sun Goddess, Amaterasu, when Susano-o, the God of Storms, was terrorizing her. Amanoyasukawara is one of the famous power spot where you will see millions of small rocks on top of each other in a cave by a river side. Then we will make our way through Takachiho Gorge. The natural greenery in contrast with the volcanic rock that forms the gorge makes for a magnificent scenery. You will be able to see an amazing water fall at the end of hike.

Our last stop of the day will be the Tunnel Station which houses the Kagura Shuzo Brewery. Sample the local shochu, a traditional Japanese drink made from barley or yam, and shop for potential gifts at this unique destination.

Day 13 Beppu & Dogo | The Real World Inspiration for Spirited Away

We begin today with a leisurely stroll around the small town of Yufuin. Stop by the many traditional shops along the Yunotsubo Street and sample the many local specialties of the quaint town. We will also make our way to Kinrin Lake for some time in nature as you enjoy the scenery and peaceful koi fish in the lake.

Once we finish our time in Yufuin, we head to Beppu for a visit to one of the famous Tour of Hell hot springs. Each hot spring has a unique feature typically the color due to the different types of minerals present and is truly a one of a kind destination.

Moving on, we’ll take a ferry over to neighboring Shikoku for a visit to Dogo Onsen, which is said to have over 3,000 years of history. The onsen is also widely known for welcoming the imperial family as guests and has a room called Yushinden on reserve exclusively for their use. Dogo Onsen's impressive wooden structure served as a model for the famous film Spirited Away.

Upon arrival to Dogo Onsen, we will walk around the old fashion hot spring shopping arcade that will bring you a somewhat retro experience. You can find a mechanical clock tower that performs every half an hour, a foot bath, and many orange related items as this area is known as the biggest producer of oranges in Japan.

Day 14 Takamatsu & Tokushima | The best of Shikoku with Cherry Blossoms

Our day will begin heading towards Osaka. Traveling East, our vacation brings us to an interesting Udon Making workshop to learn how to carefully prepare Udon noodles. While ramen is enjoyed around Japan, Udon is a popular thick noodled dish famous in the Southern regions of Japan. Learn first-hand the ways to prepare this delicious Japanese cuisine during your Takayama tour.

Next, we will visit the famous Ritsurin Garden. Michelin Green Guide graded the garden three stars and is a great place to take photos, especially from the highest point that overlooks the entire garden. Fittingly enough, the anime Poco’s Udon World, which takes place in the Kagawa Prefecture, features the garden in the series as well.

After soaking in some natural beauty, the tour will make its way through Tokushima. We will stop at the Awa-odori Museum, a museum dedicated to the prefecture dance of Tokushima. An annual festival where thousands of spectators will flock to the area to watch the dance being performed during Obon season. Here, we’ll learn about the history as well as learn some parts of the dance.

Day 15 Osaka | Tour Disbands & Depart from Japan

Your pleasant and memorable Japan tour ends today. The tour will disband after breakfast. Fly home with cherished memories or enjoy your extended stay in Japan.

**INFORMATION**
From downtown hotel in Osaka to KIX Airport - about 70 mins (Bus)
From downtown hotel in Osaka to ITM Airport - about 30 mins (Bus)