12 Days Gion Festival Tour | Anime & Hiroshima

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 | Meet Your Favorite Iconic Anime Characters

During the Tokyo Anime touring, we will use public transportation systems including JR(Japan Railroad)trains, Metro, subways and a bus. We will provide you Pasmo or Suica that is prepaid transportation card. You get to travel just like a local!

Kicking things off with our anime tour, we start our day at Odaiba, a popular shopping and entertainment district on a manmade island in Tokyo Bay. Your group will go see the iconic 65 feet-tall Unicorn Gundam and Gundam-Base shop where you can take pictures and get a glimpse at the ever so famous Gundam fandom.

You can then go to Small World Tokyo while you have free time in Odaiba (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.

Next, we will visit Shibuya Parco where the latest anime spot called Cyberspace Shibuya has been 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.

We end the day relaxing with some sweets with Godzilla! Located on 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.

Next, we will head to the unique and interactive Ninja Trick House. Here, you can 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.

Day 3 Tokyo | The Ghibli Museum & Akihabara's Trendy Anime Shopping

We head 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. For those interested in character figures, a stop by Tamashii Nations cannot be overlooked as they are the premier figurine shop and exhibit in Akihabara. 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.

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! Once we finish up at Nakano Broadway, we head east to visit the famed Ghibli Museum. This animation and art museum exhibits the works of Miyazaki Hayao, creator of world famous films such as My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, and Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea. Ghibli Film 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. We then proceed to the hotel.

Day 4 Tokyo | At your Leisure & Optional Excursions

We've cleared up the day for you to enjoy at your leisure or spend the day at either Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea

Note: Additional fees & costs will apply for Tokyo Disneyland/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!

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.

For lunch, enjoy a Japanese seasonal dining experience.

Then we are off to Harajuku to explore the famous Takeshita Street and Omotesando area. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Our next stop 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 Kyoto | Magnificent Floats of the Gion Festival

Today your vacation will be spent enjoying the fun and celebrations of the Kyoto Gion Festival. Considered the most famous festival in all Japan, indulge in delicious Japanese foods from a yatai (Japanese food booth), festival & carnival games, activities, parades, Japanese arts & crafts, displays, and more during this lively, month long event celebrating Kyoto's Yasaka Shrine!

The Gion Festival is filled with enjoyable Japanese matsuri events and performances, but the festivals main procession of floats on the 17th is a must in Kyoto. Named the Yamaboko Junko, the procession is marked with thirty-two lavish floats decorated with gorgeous, luxuriously-equipped items as they parade through the city. Weighing up to 12 tons and marching to the sound of taiko drums and traditional Japanese music, the entire display is regarded as a moving art museum by the local Kyoto festival goers!
Be sure to check out the food booths for some a wide selection of delicious Japanese festival foods and enjoy the festival at your leisure!

Day 10 Himeji | UNESCO Certified White Heron Castle

Today, we will travel further west to the Himeji prefecture to visit the magnificent Himeji Castle. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, it is considered one of Japan’s three premier 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.

Day 11 Hiroshima | the Iconic Floating Shrine of Japan

We will spend today exploring the city of Hiroshima. Our tour begins with a visit to the A-Bomb Dome, the only surviving building from the aftermath of the Atomic Bombing in Hiroshima. The A-Bomb Dome is located on the Peace Park Memorial park grounds, the site where the atomic bomb struck Hiroshima. Stroll along the park to see famous attractions like that of Sadako’s statue and the freedom bell. The A-Bomb Dome has been preserved to be a reminder of the tragedy for future generations and to symbolize its wishes for everlasting peace. While at the Peace Park, enjoy the exhibits at the world-famous Hiroshima Peace Park Museum. This museum collects the history and artifacts from the bombing and is a reminder of the city of Hiroshima's wish for world peace.

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 momiji manju (maple leaf shaped cake with red beans) and oysters which you can enjoy during your time on the island.

Day 12 Hiroshima | 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 Hiroshima Station to Hiroshima Airport(HIJ) - about 45 mins (Bus)

This tour disbands in Hiroshima.