Welcome to Japan!

Welcome to Tokyo! An English-speaking assistant will be waiting for you upon your arrival at the airport, holding a sign with your name on it. This representative will introduce you to your driver for a transfer back to your hotel.

Meet your driver for an enjoyable airport transfer with a private vehicle.

After years of traveling to and from Japan, our Destination Experts all agree that when traveling to the other side of the globe, we all need some time at leisure to acclimate to the new time zone, a fast-paced city, and a different country, culture, and way of life. Take this day to explore the city at your own pace or rest at your accommodations and set off tomorrow fresh-faced and ready to take in the incredibly country that is Japan with your private guide along side.

Please note: If you're the type to 'hit the ground running' when you travel, simply let your Destination Expert know and they will help you choose the best tour for the first, full day of your time abroad.

This morning, your guide will meet you at your hotel and use Tokyo's efficient public transportation system to take you to a sumo beya, or sumo stable, offering you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into the world of sumo. In Japan, all rikishi (wrestlers) belong to these stables, where they live, train, and eat. At the beya, you’ll witness the fascinating morning training session, known as asa geiko. The day begins early, with the lower-ranked wrestlers practicing before their other duties, such as cleaning the facility and preparing meals. The higher-ranked sekitori arrive later and train from around 7 am to 10 am, honing their techniques with rigorous warm-ups and drills. The training session culminates in an exciting "King of the Castle" game, where one wrestler stays in the ring and faces multiple bouts until defeated. Once the training ends, your guide will leave you at the stable, where you are free to explore further or make your own arrangements for the rest of the day.

Please note that with this tour you will have a private guide, but rather than traveling by private vehicle, you will make use of Tokyo’s efficient local transit system. Seating on tatami matting only. Visitors are requested to observe absolute silence to not disturb the wrestlers.

This afternoon, explore three of Tokyo's vibrant centers of youth fashion and pop culture with your private local guide. Begin in Shibuya, Tokyo's main center for youth fashion and culture. Its streets are the birthplace of many of Japan's fashion and entertainment trends and the area is also home to the famous five-way "scramble crossing". The Shibuya Crossing is rumored to be the busiest intersection in the world. Next, travel to Harajuku and Takeshita-Dori (Cat Street). This famous street is lined with quirky fashion boutiques, cafes, and restaurants for your enjoyment. Harajuku caters to every imaginable style and is the epicenter of Japanese “kawaii”, the culture of cuteness. Continue to Akihabara, also known as Electric Town, an area that was originally famous for its many electronics shops. Akihabara is renowned as the center of Japan’s otaku culture, a culture of diehard fans in anime and manga fandom. Many shops and establishments devoted to anime and manga are now dispersed among the electronic stores in the district. At the end of the tour, you will be dropped off at your hotel. Rather than traveling by private vehicle, you will explore Tokyo by making use of Tokyo’s efficient local transit system.

Meet your guide for a train station transfer with a private vehicle.

Board a train with service from Tokyo to Takayama, changing trains in Nagoya. Upon arrival in Nagoya, an assistant will help you transfer smoothly from one train to the next train. The total train ride is approximately 4 hours.

Meet your driver for a train station transfer in a private vehicle.

Enjoy a hearty, traditional Japanese meal as part of the Ryokan experience, included in the cost of your tour. This will be artfully presented and served to you in the ryokan's dining room, as is the custom in Japan.

Take a tour of Takayama with an expert local guide. Your experience begins with a visit to the Takayama Festival Float Museum, where the magnificent floats from the famous Takayama Festival are preserved. Your guide will explain the traditions and symbolism related to this festival, known as one of the most important celebrations in Japan. Continue with a walk in the San-machi Suji district, the traditional home of Takayama merchants and sake brewers that looks almost exactly as it did centuries ago. Here, stroll among San-machi Suji’s atmospheric inns, shops and taverns; and stop by a sake brewery to enjoy a tasting of Japan’s national tipple made from Takayama’s renowned crystal-clear water. Upon the conclusion of your tour today, you make your own way back to your hotel. Your guide is happy to help with procuring a taxi on your behalf.

Please note that with this tour you will have a private guide, but rather than travellng by private vehicle, you will make use of Takayama’s efficient local transit system.

Explore historic Takayama and discover an old merchant town brimming with tradition and culture. The city's old town has been beautifully preserved from the Edo Period when Takayama once thrived as a wealthy merchant hub, now known as Sanmachi-dori. Easily distinguished by traditional architecture and storefronts, this historic district showcases plenty of shops and stalls of all kinds. This is the ideal place to seek out old-fashioned Japanese sweets, traditional crafts, and local specialties including mitarashi dango rice balls and skewered Hida beef. The city's Sannomachi Street boasts plenty of old homes, shops, coffee houses and sake breweries - some of which have been in business for centuries. A site of interest is the beautiful Takayama Jinya, a historic building which once served as Takayama's government office in the Edo Period. During this time, the city stood under direct control of the shogun due to its valuable timber resources. Other must-see locales include several historic sake breweries, easily recognized by sugidama (balls made of cedar branches) hung over their entrances.

Enjoy a hearty, traditional Japanese meal as part of the Ryokan experience, included in the cost of your tour. This will be artfully presented and served to you in the ryokan's dining room, as is the custom in Japan.

Today, your journey continues with a private transfer from Takayama to Kanazawa, enriched by guided visits to Hida-Furukawa and the UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go village along the way. Begin in Hida-Furukawa, a quieter counterpart to Takayama, known for its skilled carpenters and prosperous timber heritage. Stroll through its beautifully preserved old town, wandering past stone-walled temple grounds, white-walled storehouses, and narrow canals where koi glide gracefully through the water. In the afternoon, travel to the Shirakawa-go region for a guided exploration of its iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses—some standing for more than 250 years. Step inside one of these steep-roofed “praying hands” homes to experience the traditional lifestyle of Japan’s historic mountain communities. Afterward, part ways with your guide in Shirakawa-go and continue to Kanazawa with your private driver. Conclude with your arrival in Kanazawa.

Kanazawa is renowned for its coastal bounty, where the Sea of Japan provides exceptional quality and abundance. Kirari, a casual sushi restaurant right next to Kanazawa Station, showcases this freshness with an excellent variety of local seafood. Skilled chefs craft authentic sushi that glides to your table with ease and precision, allowing you to savor each piece at your own pace. It’s a relaxed and flavorful way to experience the city’s celebrated seafood culture.

Immerse yourself in the ancient heritage of Kanazawa, a city renowned for its well-preserved castles, gardens, and neighborhoods dating back to the Edo Period, with a private guide. Meet your guide at your hotel and explore the city using Kanazawa’s efficient public transit system. Once the seat of the powerful Maeda clan, Kanazawa grew into a cultural capital, rivaling Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo). Visit Kenroku-en, one of Japan’s top three gardens, where meandering paths, bridges, and serene ponds create a peaceful retreat. Explore Kanazawa Castle, a majestic structure that has been meticulously restored to reflect its historical grandeur, offering panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. At Kagayuzen Kaikan, discover the century-old yuzen silk painting technique. Continue to Nagamachi, the former samurai district, and stroll through Higashi Chaya, a historic geisha and teahouse area, where the charm of Kanazawa’s past is alive in its preserved buildings and narrow lanes.

Please note: This tour makes use of Kanazawa's efficient public transportation to travel around the city.

Charming Kanazawa is not only home to beautiful art, architecture and to one of Japan’s most exquisite cuisines; it is also the birthplace of refined traditional crafts valued as some of the finest in the country. Today you will experience hands on two of the crafts that make Kanazawa famous. First, Kanagawa is synonymous with gold leaf. Try your hand at decorating a small lacquer plate or a pair of chopsticks with this thin, sparkling, precious product. Next, you will experience "Kagayuzen," a form of kimono cloth dyeing that is exquisitely a Kanazawa specialty. You will decorate a handkerchief using this traditional technique. You will get to keep your creations as souvenirs of this memorable day. Tour ends in central Kanazawa.

Please note that with this tour you will have a private guide, but rather than traveling by private vehicle, you will make use of Kanazawa’s efficient local transit system.

Experience a private tea ceremony in the heart of Kanazawa, enriched by the elegance of wearing a traditional kimono—an encounter that brings Japanese artistry and philosophy to life. Meet your guide at your hotel and travel by private vehicle to a serene tearoom, where your kimono awaits, carefully chosen to reflect harmony and seasonal beauty. Settle into the quiet atmosphere as you learn the refined rituals of preparing and serving matcha, mastering the graceful movements and deep symbolism woven into each gesture. Savor freshly whisked matcha accompanied by delicate wagashi, traditional sweets crafted to complement its subtle flavor. Conclude with a private transfer back to your accommodation.

Meet your driver for a train station transfer with a private vehicle.

Board a train with service from Kanazawa to Kyoto, changing trains in Tsuruga. Upon arrival in Tsuruga, an assistant will help you transfer smoothly from one train to the next train. The total train ride is approximately 2 hours.

Meet your guide for a train station transfer with a private vehicle.

Today, together with a knowledgeable guide you’ll head by public transportation to navigate cobblestone streets in neighborhoods that were established over 1000 years ago. You’ll find that Kyoto is not only a city steeped in history, but full of modern monks, artisans, baristas, and college students still working towards its lively future. Kinkakuji Temple draws millions of visitors each year, and you will quickly understand why this jewel in the northern hills of Kyoto is one of the country’s most visited sites. A far cry from Buddhist austerity, it is covered in real gold leaf, photogenically stunning at any time of the year no matter the weather. The story of the warlord who had this pavilion built will surely capture your mind, too. Next, stop by Ryoanji Temple, which was built on the grounds of a villa of the Fujiwara clan in the Heian period (794-1185). The temple is home to one of the most famous zen rock gardens in Japan. Finally, visit Kitano-Temanngu, a remarkable shrine to scholarship built to appease the spirit of an angry ghost. Buy a lucky pencil as local students do for their college entry exams, and then marvel at the surrounding entertainment district. After a fire in 1444, a large section of the temple was rebuilt, and the remaining timber was used to construct 7 tea houses that became the first ‘flower town’ or geisha district. in Kyoto. Lastly, you will visit the geisha district of Kamishichiken, which is every bit as charming as its more touristy cousin Gion, with the bonus of fewer crowds and excellent photo opportunities.

Please note: This tour makes use of Kyoto's efficient public transportation to travel around the city.

Uncover the breathtaking natural beauty of bamboo groves and cultural landmarks in Arashiyama with a private guide on an immersive journey through the area. Meet your guide at the hotel and utilize Kyoto's efficient public transportation to reach the Arashiyama district. Begin with a stroll through the iconic bamboo groves, where towering bamboo stalks create an awe-inspiring atmosphere, with the peaceful Ōi River and mountains in the distance. Nearby, visit Nonomiya Shrine, a tranquil Shinto shrine nestled among the bamboo, offering a serene space for reflection. Continue to Okochi Mountain Villa, the former residence of a popular samurai film star, which features beautifully landscaped gardens and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Your final stop is Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto’s most significant temples. Founded in 1339 during the Muromachi Period, this grand temple is known for its stunning gardens, which provide a perfect setting for a peaceful walk through history and nature. Conclude with a transfer via public transportation back to your accommodation.

Please note that with this tour you will have a private guide, but rather than traveling by private vehicle, you will make use of Kyoto's efficient local transit system.

Enjoy a self-guided stroll through Kyoto’s Pontocho, a charming alleyway running parallel to the Kamo River. Discover an incredible range of dining options, from casual yakitori and izakayas to exquisite high-end Kyoto cuisine. Wander at your own pace, soaking up the traditional atmosphere, lantern-lit streets, and riverside views while sampling the flavors that make Pontocho a culinary hotspot.

Please note: This is a suggestion for your leisure time and does not include admissions, a guide, or transfers

Explore Nara’s historic splendor and Fushimi’s iconic charm with your private guide on this full-day cultural journey. Meet your guide at your hotel and travel via Kyoto’s efficient public transport to Nara, Japan’s capital in the 8th century. Begin at Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO-listed treasure and home to the Great Buddha—housed in the world’s largest wooden building. Continue to Kasuga Taisha, Nara’s most celebrated Shinto shrine, adorned with hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns donated by devoted worshippers. Stroll through nearby Nara Park, famously home to over a thousand freely roaming Sika deer considered messengers of the gods. On your return to Kyoto, stop at Fushimi Inari Shrine, a striking symbol of prosperity and devotion. Follow the atmospheric tunnel of thousands of vermilion torii gates winding through the forested slopes of Mount Inari. Dedicated to Inari, the deity of rice and commerce, this sacred site is dotted with fox statues—messengers of the god. Conclude with a return train transfer to Kyoto.

Please note: This tour makes use of Kyoto's efficient public transportation to travel around the city.

Meet your guide for a train station transfer with a private vehicle.

Board a train from Kyoto with direct service to Hakone's Odawara station. The train ride is approximately 2 hours.

Meet your driver for a train station transfer with a private vehicle.

Enjoy a hearty, traditional Japanese meal as part of the Ryokan experience, included in the cost of your tour. This will be artfully presented and served to you in the ryokan's dining room, as is the custom in Japan.

Traverse Hakone’s dramatic volcanic landscapes and tranquil lake vistas on a privately guided day exploring the region’s natural and cultural highlights. Meet your guide at your hotel and set off using Hakone’s efficient public transport system to experience the renowned “Hakone Loop.” Begin with a scenic journey to Gora, where you’ll board the Hakone Ropeway and ascend toward the otherworldly Owakudani volcanic crater. Walk among steaming vents and savor a local specialty—black eggs boiled in the area’s mineral-rich hot springs, said to add years to your life. Continue your journey with a serene cruise across Lake Ashi, surrounded by forested slopes and, on clear days, graced by views of Mt. Fuji rising above the horizon. This shy yet majestic mountain reveals itself most often between November and March. As your day winds down, follow your guide to your accommodation, where you’ll be left to unwind in the soothing comforts of your ryokan or hotel, enriched by the sights and stories of this unforgettable Hakone adventure.

Please note: This tour makes use of Hakone's efficient public transportation to travel around the city.

Enjoy a hearty, traditional Japanese meal as part of the Ryokan experience, included in the cost of your tour. This will be artfully presented and served to you in the ryokan's dining room, as is the custom in Japan.

Sit back and relax on a scenic drive from Hakone to Haneda International Airport with your private vehicle and driver. The transfer time is approximately 1.5 hours.

Rising above the dynamic skyline of Shinjuku, Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo is a refined urban sanctuary where modern comforts meet timeless Japanese traditions. Ideally located in the heart of Japan’s capital, this sophisticated retreat is a gateway to the city’s vibrant culture—where historic tea ceremonies, the soft strains of koto music, and gracious hospitality coexist with contemporary elegance. Spanning two soaring towers, the hotel’s 1,453 guestrooms and suites offer a serene escape, adorned with contemporary furnishings and floor-to-ceiling windows framing sweeping city views. High above the bustling streets, the rooftop pool shimmers under the summer sun, offering a secluded oasis where the city feels worlds away. Unwind in the spa, where Japanese wellness rituals and soothing treatments provide a moment of pure tranquility. Dining is a celebration of Japan’s rich culinary heritage, with multiple options ranging from artfully presented kaiseki cuisine to theatrical live cooking experiences. The hotel’s sleek sky lounge, perched on the 45th floor, offers handcrafted cocktails and mesmerizing city vistas, while an intimate sake bar invites guests to explore expertly curated pairings. With an atmosphere steeped in both tradition and innovation, Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo offers an elegant immersion into the essence of Japan.

Hidatei Hanaugi offers an authentic ryokan experience where traditional Japanese hospitality meets the soothing charm of natural hot springs. Built with warm, beautifully crafted wood interiors, this serene retreat draws from its own hot spring source. Nearly every room features a private onsen bath, each with a unique style and setting, inviting you to unwind in quiet comfort. Seasonal kaiseki dinners and traditional breakfasts are served in an intimate private dining room, allowing you to savor regional flavors paired with local Hida sake. Pause at the foot bath gallery to enjoy views of the peaceful courtyard, letting the gentle warmth melt away stress and fatigue. Whether soaking in the mineral-rich waters or simply taking in the surrounding tranquility, every moment at Hidatei Hanaugi offers a deep sense of relaxation and a connection to the timeless beauty of Japan’s alpine landscape.

The Hyatt Centric Kanazawa is situated just seconds from the Kanazawa station. The Hyatt Centric brand prides itself of building hotels in ideal locations and perfect spots from which to explore the authentic art, shops, restaurants and culture of a city. Their location in Kanazawa is no exception with renowned geisha and samurai districts as well as wonderful cuisine at guests fingertips. This 4-star, Western-style hotel offers a concierge service and luggage storage space, as well as a 24-hour front desk, room service and currency exchange. The Centric Kanazawa provides all guests with air-conditioned room. The Hyatt Centric Kanazawa is housed in a 14-story tower and has approximately 250 guestrooms ranging from a standard King Room to the properties largest, 'Kanazawa Suite.' Every room category contains a desk and work space, a coffee machine, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a TV and a private bathroom with a bidet. A buffet breakfast is available every morning at the accommodation's FIVE Grill & Lounge as well as stunning views of Kanazawa from the open-air hotel rooftop 'RoofTerrace Bar.'

Dhawa Yura Kyoto, a boutique hotel near the tranquil Kamo River, beautifully combines the essence of Japan’s rich history with modern elegance. Offering 138 contemporary rooms and suites, each designed to provide a high-quality stay focused on peace and relaxation, the hotel invites you to unwind in serene surroundings. Dine at the on-site restaurant, where you can savor delicious meals that nourish both body and soul. The bar offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying expertly crafted drinks. For quiet moments, the lobby lounge provides a cozy corner to read a book or simply reflect. The spa offers an authentic experience with impactful therapies that nurture both self and nature. Ideally located in Sanjo, the hotel is within walking distance of Kyoto’s iconic temples, shrines, shopping areas, and cultural landmarks, offering easy access to the city's most treasured sights.

Set amid the serene mountains of Hakone, Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu offers a tranquil retreat where traditional Japanese hospitality blends seamlessly with nature. Each of the 150 thoughtfully designed rooms features a private open-air onsen bath, allowing you to soak in natural hot springs while taking in the mountain views. Delight in seasonal delicacies at the onsite restaurant, where fresh ingredients reflect the region’s flavors. Unwind in the infinity hot spring, its shimmering horizon merging with the sky for an unforgettable moment of calm. After a day of exploring Hakone’s art museums and scenic trails, enjoy a handcrafted cocktail in the elegant lounge bar or stroll through the beautifully landscaped Japanese gardens. For deeper relaxation, choose from soothing spa treatments that restore balance and ease. With its serene surroundings and authentic ryokan experience, Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu invites you to reconnect with nature and embrace the timeless charm of Japanese tradition.

The Hakone Open-Air Museum and Hakone Gora Park are only a 6-minute bus ride from Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu. Chisuji Falls is a 13-minute walk away, and Owakudani Valley is 1.4 miles away.