8 Days Japan Private Tour 8 Days

Day 1 Tokyo Arrival

Welcome to Japan! We will have transportation services to take you to your hotel. Please refer to your tour handbook 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 | Unveiling the Traditional Soul of Japan

Begin your Tokyo cultural tour with a peaceful stroll through Kiyosumi Garden, one of the city's finest traditional Japanese gardens. Featuring picturesque ponds, stone lanterns, and classic teahouses, this beautifully maintained garden offers a quiet retreat from the urban bustle and a taste of timeless Japanese landscape design.

Step back in time at the Fukagawa Edo Museum, a must-see for history lovers. This immersive museum recreates life in the Edo period, allowing you to wander through full-scale models of traditional homes and shops. It’s an engaging way to understand Tokyo’s rich historical roots.

Your journey continues at the vibrant Tsukiji Outer Market, a paradise for Japanese food lovers. Sample fresh sushi, grilled seafood, savory snacks, and traditional sweets as you explore one of Tokyo’s most iconic culinary destinations. It’s a feast for all the senses and a perfect stop for experiencing local street food culture.

For lunch, enjoy a seasonal Japanese dining experience thoughtfully curated by our expert team. Based on the time of year, you’ll be treated to dishes featuring regional ingredients and seasonal specialties — from springtime bamboo shoots to autumn matsutake mushrooms. Each meal reflects Japan’s culinary heritage and current food trends.

Next, explore Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s oldest and most beloved neighborhoods. Visit the iconic Senso-ji Temple, walk through the grand Kaminarimon Gate, and browse the lively Nakamise shopping street for handcrafted souvenirs and traditional snacks. This area captures the heart of Tokyo’s spiritual and cultural history.

For those interested in modern art and technology, we include a visit to teamLab Borderless or teamLab Planets. These cutting-edge digital art museums combine immersive visuals, sound, and interaction — offering a unique sensory experience that blends Japanese innovation with contemporary creativity.

Day 3 Tokyo | A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity in Japan's Heart

Start your day with an immersive visit to the Tokyo Imperial Palace, the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan. Located in the heart of the city, this historic site blends traditional Japanese architecture with beautifully landscaped palace gardens. Explore the outer grounds, stone bridges, and lush moats while learning about Japan's imperial heritage.

From there, head to Tokyo Station, a central transportation hub and architectural landmark. Known for its classic red-brick façade and domed rooftops, Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building is a striking example of Meiji-era Western-influenced design. Inside, you'll find boutique shops, gourmet bento counters, and access to the famous Shinkansen bullet trains.

Continue to the energetic Shibuya district, home to the world-famous Shibuya Crossing—often called the busiest pedestrian intersection on Earth. Take a moment to witness the incredible synchronization of city life as hundreds of people cross from all directions. Just steps away, pay tribute to Hachiko, the loyal dog remembered for his enduring devotion and commemorated with a bronze statue that’s now a popular meeting spot.

Next, explore Harajuku, Tokyo’s capital of youth culture and creativity. Discover colorful fashion boutiques, quirky cafes, and the latest in 'kawaii' trends on Takeshita Street. It’s a perfect place for those interested in street-style photography, pop culture, and unique shopping experiences.

Adjacent to the buzz of Harajuku, step into tranquility at the Meiji Shrine. Surrounded by a forest of over 100,000 trees, this Shinto shrine honors Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Stroll through its peaceful grounds, pass beneath towering torii gates, and experience a moment of reflection away from the city’s energy.

Conclude your day in Ginza, Tokyo’s luxury shopping and entertainment district. Stroll its wide boulevards lined with high-end fashion brands, flagship department stores, and gourmet restaurants.

Day 4 Tokyo | Self-Guided Day

Enjoy a free day in Tokyo to explore the city your way. Take a break from the group schedule and embrace the freedom to discover what interests you most. Whether you want to revisit a favorite attraction, shop in local neighborhoods, or simply unwind at a café, this open day allows you to immerse yourself in Tokyo’s local lifestyle at your own pace.

Looking to continue the adventure? Choose from a range of optional day trips from Tokyo that offer unforgettable experiences:

• Yokohama Sightseeing Tour – Visit Japan’s second-largest city, known for its charming mix of historic districts, waterfront views, and modern architecture. Stroll through the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse or savor Chinese flavors in Yokohama Chinatown.
• Kamakura Day Trip – Step into the past in this coastal town famous for the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), scenic temples, and tranquil bamboo groves. A perfect destination for history and nature lovers.
• Tokyo Disney Resort – Spend the day at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea, two of Japan’s top family-friendly attractions. Enjoy themed rides, character parades, and magical moments for guests of all ages.

These optional tours require advance booking and availability is limited, so please let us know your preferences as early as possible to secure your spot.

Day 5 Hakone | Volcanic Steamed Black Eggs Snack

Embark on an unforgettable Hakone tour and discover the breathtaking beauty of Japan’s natural landscapes, volcanic wonders, and open-air art — all in one day.

Your day begins with a peaceful Lake Ashi cruise, one of Hakone’s most iconic experiences. Relax on the water as you take in the serene scenery, and on clear days, enjoy stunning views of Mount Fuji rising majestically in the distance.

Next, soar above Hakone on the Hakone Ropeway. This thrilling aerial cable car ride offers panoramic views of lush mountains, forested valleys, and volcanic steam vents — a must for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Arriving at Owakudani, you’ll step into a landscape shaped by active geothermal forces. Explore the steaming terrain and try the famous Kuro Tamago (black eggs), boiled in natural hot springs. According to local legend, each egg adds seven years to your life!

From Owakudani, hop aboard the Hakone Tozan Railway, Japan’s oldest mountain railway. This scenic train winds through steep slopes, dramatic switchbacks, and vibrant seasonal foliage. Whether you visit in spring, autumn, or winter, the journey showcases the natural beauty of Hakone in full color.

Our final stop is the world-renowned Hakone Open-Air Museum. Stroll through expansive sculpture gardens where contemporary art meets nature. Admire works by renowned artists from Japan and around the globe, beautifully displayed against a mountainous backdrop.

After a day of exploration, board the Shinkansen bullet train for a smooth and high-speed transfer to Kyoto. Enjoy the comfort and efficiency of Japan’s most famous transportation experience as you head toward the cultural heart of the country.

*Please note that the itinerary may be adjusted based on weather conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Day 6 Kyoto | Endless Bamboo & UNESCO Kiyomizu Temple

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Kinkaku-ji, or Golden Pavilion, one of the most photographed temples in Kyoto. This stunning Zen Buddhist temple is covered in gold leaf and surrounded by landscaped gardens and a reflective pond, offering breathtaking photo opportunities that capture the essence of traditional Japanese architecture.

Next, enjoy a classic rickshaw ride through the scenic Arashiyama district, known for its lush bamboo groves, historical landmarks, and the picturesque Hozu River. Feel the nostalgic charm of old Kyoto as your guide takes you through quiet forest paths and serene streets.

Afterward, stroll along Ninen-zaka, a charming, stone-paved street lined with preserved machiya-style townhouses. This historic area transports you back to the Kyoto of centuries past, with its teahouses, souvenir shops, and scenic views of the Higashiyama district.

Enjoy a relaxing matcha tasting experience in a tranquil Kyoto teahouse. Savor the rich, earthy flavors of traditional Japanese green tea while soaking in the calming ambiance — a perfect moment of pause during your cultural journey.

Conclude your cultural exploration with a visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This hilltop temple is celebrated for its massive wooden stage that offers sweeping views over the city, especially stunning during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.

You’ll also have the option to enhance your day with a Maiko Dining experience or a matcha break while wearing a traditional kimono. During the Maiko experience, you’ll enjoy a traditional meal accompanied by elegant dances and warm conversation with a Maiko — an apprentice Geisha — offering a rare and authentic insight into Kyoto’s refined performing arts.

Day 7 Kyoto & Nara | A Tranquil Journey Through Japan's Sacred Heritage

Begin your cultural journey in Nara with a visit to the iconic Todai-ji Temple, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at its monumental wooden structure and the towering Great Buddha (Daibutsu) — one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world. This sacred site exemplifies Japan’s ancient Buddhist heritage and architectural mastery.

Next, wander through the serene grounds of Nara Deer Park, where over a thousand free-roaming deer greet visitors. Revered as sacred messengers in the Shinto tradition, these friendly deer provide an unforgettable and uniquely Nara experience.

Continue on to the historic city of Uji to explore the exquisite Byodo-in Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous for its elegant Phoenix Hall — featured on the 10-yen coin — the temple is a masterpiece of Heian-era architecture, surrounded by serene gardens and reflecting ponds that embody the harmony of Japanese design and spirituality.

From there, make your way to Kyoto’s renowned Fushimi Inari Shrine, home to the iconic thousands of red torii gates that wind their way through a wooded mountainside. This Shinto shrine is one of Japan’s most photographed landmarks and offers a deeply atmospheric and photogenic experience.

Day 8 Departure Osaka

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)