A taste of Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka
Travel independently through Japan’s must-see cities - Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Riding the iconic bullet train as you explore the culture, cuisine, and energy of this unforgettable adventure.
Enjoy a week-long self-guided adventure through Japan’s three most iconic cities. You’ll have enough free time to explore each one at your own pace! Start in Tokyo, discovering neighborhoods like Shibuya. Then, hop on the bullet train to Kyoto to visit ancient temples and wander through Gion district. Finally, head to Osaka, Japan’s vibrant capital of cuisine and entertainment.
1st Day: UK/Ireland - Tokyo
Get ready to start your adventure! Head to the airport at the indicated time to board your flight* to Japan. Overnight on board.
*If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.
2nd Day: Tokyo
Arrival at Tokyo Airport and transfer on your own* to the hotel. If you do not include a private transfer service, we recommend that you use Japan’s public transportation, which is one of the best in the world: reliable, clean, and extremely punctual. Take some time to settle in and relax after your journey before your adventure begins. Overnight stay in Tokyo...
For Accommodation details and extra including meet & greet, please contact us for all the details.
3rd Day: Tokyo
Today you have free time during the morning to further explore Tokyo at your own pace. Consider visiting the serene Meiji Shrine, nestled in a tranquil forested area near Harajuku, or take a walk through the stylish streets of Omotesando for architecture and boutique shopping.
4th Day: Tokyo
Enjoy a full day to explore Tokyo at your own pace, discovering the city’s endless attractions and hidden gems. For an added adventure, we recommend you to join our optional Mount Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi tour.* This excursion offers stunning views of Japan’s iconic peak and the serene beauty of Lake Kawaguchi, making for an unforgettable experience. Overnight stay in Tokyo.
5th Day: Tokyo - Kyoto
Board the bullet train (Shinkansen) to Kyoto*, Japan’s ancient capital. The trip takes only around 2 hours and 15 minutes, and the train can reach speeds of 300 km/h! Enjoy the rest of the day exploring Kyoto at your own pace. Wander through serene streets, visit hidden temples, or unwind at a local onsen.
6th Day: Kyoto
Enjoy the morning exploring Kyoto at your own pace. Visit the impressive Nijo Castle or, for a more interactive experience, explore the Samurai & Ninja Museum to learn about Japan’s legendary warriors.
In the evening, take part in a guided walking tour of Gion, Kyoto’s most iconic geisha district. This is the time when geishas—known locally as geiko—and maiko (apprentices) begin to appear as they head to evening appointments, offering a rare and authentic glimpse into this refined world of traditional arts and entertainment.
Wander through atmospheric alleyways lined with teahouses and wooden machiya townhouses, as your expert guide shares stories and insights into Kyoto’s unique cultural heritage. You'll also visit the famous Yasaka Shrine, where you'll learn about Shinto and its traditions. Overnight stay in Kyoto.
7th Day: Kyoto, Japan
Enjoy a free day to explore Kyoto at your own pace. Wander through the city's peaceful streets, browse traditional craft shops, or visit one of its many charming teahouses. For a deeper cultural experience,we highly recommend joining our optional Kyoto & Nara Full-Day Tour*—an exceptional and comprehensive coach excursion that offers incredible value. Overnight stay in Kyoto.
*Kyoto & Nara Full-Day Tour: Begin with a visit to Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stunning three-story temple is covered in gold leaf on its upper floors and reflects beautifully in the surrounding Mirror Lake. Next, walk through the famous Senbon Torii at Fushimi Inari Taisha, where thousands of deep red torii gates form a captivating tunnel through the forest. In the afternoon, explore Nara Park, a vast area home to cultural treasures such as Todai-ji Temple (housing the Great Buddha), Kofuku-ji Temple, Kasuga Shrine, the Nara National Museum, and the ancient Kasugayama Primeval Forest. The park is also known for its approximately 1,300 friendly wild deer that roam freely among the trees, gardens, and historic landmarks.
8th Day: Kyoto - Osaka
Travel to Osaka aboard the Shinkansen (bullet train)* for a short 15-minute ride to the final city on your itinerary: vibrant, modern Osaka. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure to explore the city at your own pace.
Osaka is Japan’s third-largest city and the central hub of the Kansai region. The city has two main districts: Kita (north), a bustling business and shopping area, and Minami (south), known for its entertainment and nightlife. Among Osaka’s top attractions are its impressive, fully restored castle and the world-renowned Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan). Osaka also boasts bold modern architecture, a thriving nightlife scene, and some of Japan’s most beloved local cuisine—don’t miss the street food in Dōtonbori, packed with neon lights, restaurants, and bars. Overnight stay in Osaka.
*The transfer between the hotel and the train station is not included.
9th Day: Osaka - UK/Ireland
It’s time to say goodbye to Japan, taking with you unforgettable memories. For a smooth departure, you may choose to book an optional private airport transfer, or make your own way to the airport. Arrive in your home city* and end this extraordinary journey.
*Depending on the choice of flight, you may arrive back in UK/Ireland the following day.
Contact further for all accommodation and extra services available.
Enjoy a week-long self-guided adventure through Japan’s three most iconic cities. You’ll have enough free time to explore each one at your own pace! Start in Tokyo, discovering neighborhoods like Shibuya. Then, hop on the bullet train to Kyoto to visit ancient temples and wander through Gion district. Finally, head to Osaka, Japan’s vibrant capital of cuisine and entertainment.