








Trip summary statistics
Limited DatesOctober – November Only
9days
Japan's Fall Colors & Cultural Highlights
Tokyo, Kyoto, Mishima, Kawaguchiko
Discover Tokyo's iconic temples and sample fresh seafood at Tsukiji Market with a private guide.
Cross Nikko's red Shinkyo Bridge to Toshogu's gilded shrines, deep in autumn cedar forests.
Pass through Fushimi Inari's iconic torii gates, then encounter Nara's roaming sacred deer.
Stand at Mt. Fuji's foot as Kawaguchiko's lakes mirror the sacred peak in perfect stillness.
Consult your Destination Expert to secure early booking for the 2027 autumn season.
* Please note: USD per person, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.
A travel experience like no other
This sample itinerary was created by experts and is meant to inspire your next trip. It is ready to be customized to suit your interests, tastes and budget so you can connect with local cultures and experience authentic travel on your own terms and departing whenever you choose.
TokyoGet Settled
- Japan Welcome Package
- Private Haneda Airport Transfer
TokyoExplore a City of Contrasts
- Tokyo Flavors & Sights (with Lunch, 6 hrs) - Private Tour by Private Vehicle
- Self Guided - Tokyo Ramen Suggestions
TokyoA Walk Through the Past
- Temples & Shrines: Nikko World Heritage (with Lunch,12 hrs) - Private Tour by Private Vehicle
Tokyo to KyotoGardens and Galleries
- Train Station - Private Transfer
- Train - Tokyo - Kyoto [2.5 hrs] - First (Green) Class
- Train Station - Private Transfer
- Kyoto’s Tranquil Gardens (4 hrs) - Private Tour by Private Vehicle
KyotoLose Yourself in Nature
- Immersive Arashiyama Walking Tour (with Lunch & Tea, 6 hrs) - Private Tour by Private Vehicle
- Self Guided - Pontocho
KyotoIt’s All Ancient History
- Highlights of Fushimi Inari & Nara (8 hrs) - Private Tour by Private Vehicle
Kyoto to Mishima to KawaguchikoLike a Speeding Bullet
- Train Station - Private Transfer
- Train - Kyoto - Mishima [2 hrs] - First (Green) Class
- Mishima to Kawaguchiko (1 hr) - Private Transfer
KawaguchikoNurtured by Nature
- Kawaguchiko's Hidden Gems (5 hrs) - Private Tour by Private Vehicle
Kawaguchiko to TokyoBon Voyage
- Kawaguchiko to Tokyo Haneda (2 hrs) - Private Transfer
TOKYO

Get Settled
A welcome package with your itinerary and any relevant documents or tickets required for your trip will be provided to you on your arrival in destination.
Meet your Kensington Tours Airport Representative who will escort you to your driver for an accompanied airport transfer to your hotel by private vehicle.
Where you’ll be staying
Chapter 1 King/Twin
TOKYO



Explore a City of Contrasts
Uncover the best of Tokyo on a private full-day exploration, pairing historic temples, bustling markets, and stylish streets in one day. Your guide and driver collect you from your hotel for Asakusa, home to Sensoji Temple, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple. Stroll along Nakamise Shopping Street, sampling traditional snacks and browsing souvenirs, then continue to Tsukiji Market for a lunch of fresh, local flavors amid its lively energy. From there, wander through Ginza, Tokyo's polished shopping district known for striking architecture and elegant boutiques, before returning to your hotel.
Choose from a variety of ramen spots across Tokyo on your own, discovering the city’s rich noodle culture. Savor Michelin-starred Tantanmen at Nakiryu, refreshing Yuzu Shio at Afuri, or creamy Tsukemen at Fuunji. Aternatively, you could visit Rokurinsha beneath Tokyo Station - widely regarded as one of Tokyo's most iconic ramen shops, and credited with pioneering the popularity of tsukemen (dipping noodles) since it first opened in Osaki in 2005. During your stay in Tokyo, you can also try bold broths at Menya Musashi, Tonkotsu at Ichiran, refined Shoyu at Ramenya Toy Box, and spicy miso at Kikanbo.
Where you’ll be staying
Chapter 1 King/Twin
TOKYO


A Walk Through the Past
Step into Japan’s sacred past on a full-day journey through the ancient city of Nikko with your private guide, where centuries-old shrines, forested trails, and refined local flavors illuminate the cultural richness of this mountain enclave. Departing from your hotel, travel together in the comforts of your private vehicle, soaking in scenic landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, cross the iconic Shinkyo Bridge—a brilliant red arch spanning the Daiya River and symbolizing the entrance to this hallowed region. Savor a traditional 'yuba' lunch, a delicate dish made from tofu skin and cherished in Nikko’s monastic cuisine. Then, explore the elaborate Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu. With your guide’s insight, admire its richly detailed carvings and vibrant colors. Continue into the cedar forest to Taiyuinbyo, a more tranquil yet equally revered shrine that blends spiritual depth with natural serenity. Conclude with a private transfer to your accommodation.
Where you’ll be staying
Chapter 1 King/Twin
TOKYO TO KYOTO


Gardens and Galleries
Meet your assistant, who will accompany you on a train station transfer with a private vehicle.
Board a train from Tokyo with direct service to Kyoto. The train ride is approximately 2.5 hours.
Meet your driver and guide for a train station transfer with a private vehicle.
Walk through four exceptional gardens with your private guide, each revealing its own character and artistry. Meet your guide at your hotel and travel by private transfer to Nanzenji, where a traditional Zen rock garden has conveyed harmony and balance since the 13th century. Continue to Tenju-an, where stepping stones lead you through a serene pond garden, offering a meditative retreat. At Murin-an, created in the 19th century, admire a brilliant design that uses meandering streams to bring depth and movement to the landscape, blending natural beauty with refined composition. End at Shin’en Garden within Heian Jingu Shrine, an expansive sanctuary where seasonal flower beds bloom in vibrant succession, pine trees are sculpted with precision, and placid ponds reflect the sky and shrine architecture. Conclude with a private transfer to your accommodation.
Where you’ll be staying
Superior South Room
KYOTO


Lose Yourself in Nature
Discover a more contemplative side of Kyoto on this privately guided full-day journey through the spiritual heart of Arashiyama. After meeting your guide at the hotel, proceed by your private transfer to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, a hidden gem nestled in the hills. Here, 1,200 whimsical stone figures—each with a unique expression—line moss-covered paths, inviting quiet reflection. From the temple, follow your guide along peaceful backroads, passing traditional homes and forested paths that lead toward the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Walk beneath towering green stalks swaying gently in the breeze—a serene, almost otherworldly experience. Midday, pause for a refined vegetarian shojin-ryōri lunch, prepared in the spirit of Zen Buddhism, where each dish honors seasonal ingredients and mindful presentation. In the afternoon, visit Tenryū-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with an exquisite Zen garden framed by mountain views. Then ascend to the tranquil Okochi Sanso Villa, once home to a famed Japanese actor. Wander through manicured gardens and enjoy a cup of hot green tea, before returning to your hotel by private transfer.
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
Where you’ll be staying
Superior South Room
KYOTO


It’s All Ancient History
Explore the spiritual landmarks of southern Kyoto and Nara on this privately guided full-day journey, beginning with a morning visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha. After meeting your guide at the hotel, proceed by private transfer to this revered shrine, where thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates wind through forested trails up Mount Inari. Your guide shares the significance of Inari, the Shinto deity of prosperity, as you walk beneath the gates in a setting that feels both sacred and cinematic. Continue on to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital, and visit Tōdai-ji, a monumental temple housing the Great Buddha—one of the largest bronze statues in the world. Wander through Nara Park, where sacred deer roam freely, believed to be messengers of the gods. Then, stroll along lantern-lined paths to Kasuga Taisha, a centuries-old Shinto shrine surrounded by moss-covered stone lanterns and vermilion halls nestled in a primeval forest. After a day rich in heritage and natural beauty, return to your hotel by private transfer.
Where you’ll be staying
Superior South Room
KYOTO TO MISHIMA TO KAWAGUCHIKO

Like a Speeding Bullet
Meet your driver and guide for a train station transfer with a private vehicle.
Board a train from Kyoto Station with direct service to Mishima. The train ride is approximately 2 hours.
Meet your private driver for your transfer to Kawaguchiko. Approximate travel duration is 1 hour.
Where you’ll be staying
T Cabin
KAWAGUCHIKO

Nurtured by Nature
Spend the day exploring the spiritual and natural wonders surrounding Mt. Fuji with your private guide. Begin with a visit to one of the region’s oldest shrines, quietly nestled within a forest of towering cedar and cypress trees. Dedicated to the Flower Blossom Princess, the goddess of Mt. Fuji, this sacred site—nearly 1,200 years old—radiates a tranquil, mystical atmosphere. A short riverside walk leads to Haha no Shirataki, or Mother’s White Falls, where you’ll enjoy a breathtaking panorama of Lake Kawaguchiko framed by the majestic silhouette of Mt. Fuji. Continue on a scenic drive toward Lake Saiko, the serene heart of the Fuji Five Lakes, surrounded by wooded slopes and known for its pristine waters fed by ancient underground springs. Here, you’ll have time to pause and admire the landscape before setting off on foot to explore the Aokigahara Jukai Forest. Formed by a volcanic eruption centuries ago, this moss-laden forest of gnarled trees and lava rock offers a unique look at the region’s geological past. End the day with a drive along the peaceful lakeshores of Saiko and Kawaguchiko, where reflections of Mt. Fuji dance on the water. Conclude with a private transfer to your accommodation.
Where you’ll be staying
T Cabin
KAWAGUCHIKO TO TOKYO
Bon Voyage
Meet your private driver for your transfer to Tokyo Haneda Airport. Approximate travel duration is 2 hours.
TOKYO





Mesm Tokyo, Autograph Collection
The beautiful jewel of a hotel, Mesm Tokyo, Autograph Collection sits proudly as a new addition on the shores of Tokyo Bay, very conveniently located in the WATERS takeshiba, a multipurpose complex that houses facilities such as Shiki Theater, and atre TAKESHIBA. The hotel is an under-10-minute walk from four of Tokyo's main subway stations and very much in the 'center of the action' in Tokyo's 'Minato City' ward, which is also home to Akasaka Palace and gardens, The National Art Center, Ginza, Odaiba entertainment district, Roppongi nightlife district, and Shiba Park and the Zojoji Temple to name a few sites. The hotel derives its name from the word 'mesmerize' as guests are enchanted "with sights and sounds, music and art, food and drink." The hotel features a restaurant, 24-hour gym, a bar/lounge, free WiFi in public areas, laundry service. 265 guestrooms are spread across 12 stories ranging from a classic 'guestroom' to rooms on high floors, garden or bay views and club level suites.
KYOTO




Okura Okazaki Bettei
Tucked away in Kyoto’s refined Okazaki district, the luxurious Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei embodies the harmony of tradition and modernity. A sanctuary of understated elegance, this intimate retreat pays homage to the city's cultural heritage through a design philosophy rooted in wabi-sabi—an appreciation of simplicity and the beauty found in imperfection. Each corridor, guest room, and gathering space is infused with a sense of tranquility, where natural materials and Kyoto’s artisanal craftsmanship create an atmosphere of quiet refinement. The hotel’s intimate scale fosters an exclusive ambiance, elevated by impeccable Japanese hospitality. Dining is a journey through Kyoto’s culinary heritage, seamlessly woven with the legacy of Masakichi Ono—the pioneer of Japanese French cuisine. Seasonal ingredients, thoughtfully prepared, celebrate Kyoto’s shifting landscapes, while floor-to-ceiling windows frame a garden that reflects the passage of time. A place where past and present entwine, Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei invites guests to experience a world of graceful serenity, where every detail whispers the essence of Kyoto’s enduring artistry.
KAWAGUCHIKO






Hoshinoya Kawaguchiko
Hoshinoya Fuji is a luxury glamping resort surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains. It offers a peaceful retreat overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Kawaguchi. The resort features 40 minimalist cabins, each designed to bring nature closer. Expansive balconies create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Wooden terraces float beneath the red pines, inviting relaxation. Air benches and reclining chairs provide the perfect spot to soak in dappled morning sunlight. At night, a bonfire glows under a sky filled with stars. Dining is an artful experience. Outdoor meals highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients. Indoors, nature’s flavors are transformed into exquisite creations. At the top of the resort, the Library Lounge offers a quiet escape. Books on nature, food, and Mt. Fuji fill the shelves. A wood-burning stove adds warmth to the serene space. Hoshinoya Fuji offers a refined way to experience the beauty of Japan’s great outdoors.
Made to Order
- Choose from a range of places to stay, from impeccable five-star hotels to equally outstanding boutique ones.
- Tailor your trip to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see's to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about.
- With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms.
- Whether you're celebrating one of life's big moments or looking to fulfill a personal journey, we always work with you to ensure we're creating a trip-of-a-lifetime.
What's included
- A fully customized itinerary based on your interests and schedule
- 24/7 in-destination support from our local office
- Regional flights between stops in your itinerary (unless otherwise indicated)
- All accommodation stays, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
- A private driver for tours and transfers (in some countries our local private guides also act as your driver - your Destination Expert will discuss with you if applicable)
- Local private guides or shared tours that take you through your itinerary highlights and experiences, your final itinerary will confirm the type of tour
- A greeting at the airport or at your accommodation from one of our representatives – your expert will confirm your meet and greet location with you
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
- One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers
What's not included
- Your international airfare – please do let your expert know if you'd like to receive pricing from our Air Team
- Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you've booked your tour
- Visas (unless noted)
- Tips for services and experiences
- Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
- Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
Protect your travel
- We recommend travel protection. Between missed connections, lost or delayed luggage, or medical emergencies, you want some peace of mind that your travel investment is well protected.
- No matter who you buy from, please consider purchasing a travel protection plan before you travel. Still unsure? Consider these frequently asked questions.









