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.

Today, leave Tokyo behind as you journey to nearby Hakone with your local, private guide. Hakone is considered one of the gateways to Mt. Fuji and surrounding national park and a vacation destination for the Japanese noble class for centuries. After your arrival, you will take some time to explore the old town area (Moto-Hakone) on the lake shore. There are a number of things to see and do here that cater to various interests; Whether that's history, art, or local artisanal specialities. Let your guide know what your interests are and they will be happy to take you to attractions that match your interests. After lunch, you will travel across picturesque Lake Ashi by stylish cruise boat (shared). You will be able to see Mt Fuji from the lake if the weather is clear. Next, you'll make your way up the Komagatake Ropeway. Again, if the weather is on your side, you can enjoy views of Mt. Fuji in the distance. The ropeway takes you to the summit of Mt. Komagatake, from which you can see amazing panoramic views of Lake Ashi, Hakone and Mt. Fuji. Heading down the ropeway, you will pick up a cruise again across to Moto-Hakone before taking the road back to the station and catching your train back to Tokyo. Your guide will accompany you to your hotel.

*Note: Please be advised that Mt. Fuji is a notoriously shy mountain and the weather needs to be perfectly clear in order to see it in the distance*

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

Board a train from Tokyo with direct service to Nagano. The train ride is approximately 2 hours.

A private vehicle and driver will provide a transfer between Nagano and Yudanaka. The approximate transfer duration is 45 minutes.

Dinner tonight will be a Japanese traditional kaiseki meal, comprised of nine or more dishes. The meal is made up of seasonal dishes using only the freshest of local Nagano ingredients. The kaiseki is a unique cultural experience, and one not to be missed in Japan.

After breakfast, your private guide will accompany you to Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you'll have the opportunity to witness the renowned Snow Monkeys, traveling via public transportation. Upon arrival, embark on a scenic, leisurely hike before reaching the entrance to the park. Jigokudani means ‘hell’s valley’ due to the steam and boiling water that bubbles out of small crevices in the frozen ground, and it is in the baths of this boiling water that the resident Japanese Macaques like to soak in on. The monkeys live in large social groups, and it can be quite entertaining to watch their interactions. Accustomed to the presence of people, the monkeys almost completely ignore their human guests and they can be observed from up close. While the monkeys are most numerous during the colder months, they can be seen all year round.

Please Note: The entrance to the park is located a 15-20 minutes hike away from the closest point reachable by car. It is a leisurely hike with moderate to no slopes. This tour makes use of Yudanaka's efficient public transportation to travel around the city.

A private vehicle and driver will provide a transfer between Nagano and Yudanaka. The approximate transfer duration is 45 minutes.

Enjoy a local, 'Limited Express' train ride through the mountains of Honshu from Nagano to beautiful Matsumoto. The train ride should take approximately 1 hour.

Meet your private driver for a train station transfer.

Today, meet your guide at your hotel and set off on a private half day adventure using Matsumoto's efficient public transit, exploring the must-see highlights of this charming mountain town. Head to the iconic Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's few remaining original castles. The wooden interior is a rare snapshot of Japanese feudal military tactics as well as an interesting museum. From the sixth floor, enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the Japanese Alps and Matsumoto city. Next, stroll around Nakamachi area, an ex-merchant district home to many well-preserved old buildings and a pedestrianized road known locally as Nawate "Frog Street". Never shying away from a themed anything, Matsumoto's themed 'Frog Street' is adorned with cute frog characters from the three dressed in Samurai suites welcoming you at the top of the street, to figurines in shops, to tayaki shaped like frogs. Lastly, visit the pleasant Yohashira Shrine nearby; Beautiful all year round but especially so in the fall and at New Year's.

This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

Today, get 'off the beaten path' and enjoy a truly unique experience with a visit to one of Japan’s largest wasabi farms in Azumino, a scenic countryside district near Matsumoto. Meet your private, English-speaking guide at your hotel and set out to Azumino, a region famed for its wasabi production. Travel seamlessly using Japan’s efficient public transit system to reach one of the country’s largest wasabi farms. Here you’ll learn about the notoriously, difficult-to-grow wasabi plant. Fed by the pure waters of the Japan Alps, the farm stretches across multiple fields, offering a glimpse into the delicate art of wasabi cultivation. Wander through the lush green fields, soak in the tranquil atmosphere, and browse the farm’s shops for fresh wasabi or unique treats like wasabi-flavored ice cream—a must-try for adventurous food lovers. After this delightful experience you’ll return to Matsumoto accompanied by your guide.

Meet your private driver for a train station transfer.

Enjoy a train transfer from Matsumoto to Kyoto, with a transfer in Nagoya. The first part of your journey will be by 'Limited Express' train and an assistant will be waiting in Nagoya to help you onto your bullet train to complete the trip to Kyoto.

Upon arrival, an assistant will help you transfer smoothly from one to train to the next train.

Upon arrival at the train station, an assistant will be waiting to guide you on a brief walk to your nearby hotel.

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.

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

Today you’ll be exploring Arashiyama, the western outskirt of Kyoto home to the world-renowned Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the Nonomiya Shrine, two of Japan’s most picturesque sites. A private guide will be accompanying you as you travel to and from the sites by taxi on this half day tour. Stroll along the sprawling stalks of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene and mystical forest that makes you feel like you’re walking in another world. Afterwards, you’ll visit Nonomiya Shrine where in ancient times, single imperial princesses stayed for a year or more to purify themselves prior to taking up their duties as royalty. Next, Okochi Mountain Villa is the former villa of the popular samurai film star Okochi Denjiro (1896-1962), and consists of several beautiful gardens and buildings, including living quarters, tea houses and a zen meditation hall. Finally, you’ll visit Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site ranked among Kyoto's five great Zen temples, and the largest and most impressive temple in Arashiyama. Tenryuji Temple is home to temple buildings, attractive gardens and walking paths. Enjoy traditional Buddhist cuisine during a vegetarian "shojin-ryori" lunch made with yuba, tofu, and seasonal vegetables while overlooking the beautifully landscaped gardens. At the end of the tour, you will be dropped off at your hotel.

Famous for its "tunnels" formed by thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Shrine is the perfect place to explore on your own. Choose from several walking routes as you follow lantern-lit paths beneath the gates. At the base of Mount Inari, you will be able to explore the lower shrine complex while the higher trails grow quieter, revealing small shrines, bamboo groves, and city views. The main trail leads to the summit of the 233-meter Mount Inari. A round-trip hike takes about 2–3 hours, but many visitors only walk the first section, known as Senbon Torii (thousands of torii gates). End your walk along the lively shopping street near the station, filled with local snacks and good-luck charms.

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

Taxi and local train carry you between Kyoto and Nara, where more than 1,000 free-roaming deer wander freely through Nara Park's wooded grounds. For 74 years in the 8th century, Nara served as Japan's imperial capital, and much of that legacy survives here. From the park, your guide leads you on to Todaiji Temple, the world's largest wooden building, home to Japan's largest Buddha statue rising within its main hall, its scale explained against the era that built it. Taxi and train carry you back to your hotel in Kyoto at day's end.

Enjoy a transfer with a private driver from Kyoto to Osaka Kansai International Airport.

Park Hotel Tokyo offers a sophisticated retreat in the city’s bustling Shiodome area, where contemporary design meets warm Japanese hospitality. Its thoughtfully designed rooms feature large windows framing sweeping views of the Tokyo skyline and iconic landmarks, while interiors showcase a harmonious blend of modern comforts and subtle artistic touches. Dine at the onsite restaurant, where seasonal ingredients inspire dishes that celebrate both Japanese and international flavors. Later, enjoy a perfectly crafted cocktail at the stylish bar while watching the city lights shimmer below. After a day of exploring nearby attractions such as the Ginza shopping district and Hamarikyu Gardens, unwind with a soothing treatment at the spa, a peaceful haven for relaxation.Whether visiting for culture, shopping, or business, Park Hotel Tokyo provides an inviting base where art, comfort, and service come together. Here, the energy of urban Tokyo meets serene spaces designed for rest and rejuvenation, creating a memorable stay in the heart of the capital.

Ryokan Biyu no Yado is located 10-minute walk from Yudanaka Station. Guests can look forward to soaking in a large communal bath or open-air bath, or trying out the open-air bath (for a charge). A relaxing massage is also available on request. The hotel also features free Wi-Fi connection throughout the entire building, a Japanese taiko drum show at the lobby, a karaoke room, and gift shop. There are Japanese-style rooms with tatami floors and futon bedding, as well as Western-style rooms with beds, all equipped with flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, hot water pots and safety deposit boxes. The hotel is just 5 minutes on foot from a statue of the goddess for peace, a 25 minute drive from the Shiga Kogen ski areas, and a 15-minute drive from the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park.

Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu has been welcoming guests in the mountain village for over 130 years. With modern updates most recently completed less than 10 years ago, the lodging provides a wonderfully charming and traditional respite for visitors to the area. Amenities include 24-hour front desk support, public hot onsen baths/pool, spa, free use of bicycles, and free Wi-Fi across the property. The property is composed of two buildings: "Main" and "Annex" and both feature stunning examples of traditional, Masumoto folk craft called 'Mingei' in both common areas as well as in-room. The aesthetic of this folk craft is simple yet meaningful, filled with inspiration from the five elements that have shaped the lives and culture of the people from this region. Like a living museum, Hotel Kagetsu exudes everyday life through its pieces, especially the rich wooden furniture that adorns the property.

Located beside Kyoto’s Imperial Palace, Noku Kyoto combines the city’s timeless charm with contemporary style. Rooms and suites are elegantly designed in warm, natural tones, with curated artworks and thoughtful details creating a serene retreat after a day of exploring. Start your morning with a beautifully prepared breakfast at the onsite cafÉ, then stroll through nearby gardens, temples, and the lively streets of Kyoto. After a day of discovery, relax with a cocktail in the inviting lounge bar, where soft lighting and a calm atmosphere provide the perfect setting to unwind. Whether you are wandering through the historic neighborhood or enjoying quiet moments indoors, the hotel offers a refined balance of modern comfort and classic Kyoto character. Noku Kyoto is an ideal base to experience the city’s cultural treasures while enjoying a welcoming and stylish retreat.