Highlights of Japan

Experience Japan’s essential route through Tokyo’s modern energy, Hakone’s ryokan and hot springs, Kyoto’s temples and geisha districts, and Osaka’s street food culture.

Tour Highlights

Tokyo buzz, Hakone onsen, Kyoto temples, bamboo forests and Osaka street food.

This itinerary is perfect for first-time Japan travelers who want a balanced journey through modern culture, ancient temples, scenic nature, traditional ryokan stays and unforgettable food.

Daily Program

12-Day Japan Itinerary

Follow the classic route from Tokyo to Hakone, Kyoto and Osaka, with culture, cuisine, temples, nature and city life.

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Arrive in Tokyo, meet your airport assistant, receive your travel cards, transfer to your hotel and activate your pocket Wi-Fi. Depending on arrival time, start exploring the city or enjoy a bowl of ramen.

Day 2: Shibuya, Meiji Jingu, Harajuku & Shinjuku

Explore Tokyo’s trendy districts, beginning with Shibuya Crossing, then visit Meiji Jingu Shrine, stroll along Harajuku Street and continue to vibrant Shinjuku for the evening at Omoide Yokocho.

Day 3: Asakusa, Ueno Park & Akihabara Pop Culture

Visit historic Asakusa, pass through Kaminarimon Gate, walk along Nakamise Street to Senso-ji Temple, relax in Ueno Park and explore Akihabara’s manga, anime and video game shops.

Day 4: Ginza, Tsukiji Market, Hamarikyu & Odaiba

Discover Ginza’s fashion district, sample local specialties at Tsukiji Market, visit nearby Hamarikyu Gardens, then head to Odaiba for Rainbow Bridge views and monjayaki in Tsukishima.

Day 5: Getaway to Hakone

Leave Tokyo for Hakone’s nature. Explore Owakudani geothermal valley, try black eggs, cross Lake Ashi, visit Hakone Shrine and stay overnight in a ryokan with kaiseki dinner and onsen baths.

Day 6: Shinkansen to Kyoto & Gion Discovery

Enjoy a traditional breakfast, ride the Shinkansen to Kyoto, then explore Gion, Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari with its thousands of torii gates.

Day 7: East Kyoto: Silver Pavilion & Philosopher’s Path

Discover Kyoto’s northeast with the Silver Pavilion, Philosopher’s Path, Nanzen-ji Temple and Heian-jingu Shrine — a day of quiet beauty, Zen atmosphere and timeless architecture.

Day 8: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & West Kyoto

Head west to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, hike to the monkey park for city views, then visit temples such as Tenryu-ji, Jojakko-ji, Nison-in and Otagi Nenbutsu-ji.

Day 9: Nishiki Market, Kinkaku-ji & Nijo Castle

Start at Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s kitchen, and taste small local dishes. Continue to Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion, Daitoku-ji Zen gardens and the imposing Nijo Castle.

Day 10: Train to Osaka & Street Food Discovery

Travel from Kyoto to Osaka, visit Osaka Castle, then explore Amerika Mura, Shinsekai, Namba Yasaka Shrine and Dotonbori, one of Japan’s best-known street food districts.

Day 11: Train to Osaka & Street Food Discovery

Spend your final full day soaking up Osaka’s atmosphere. Shop in Umeda or choose an optional nearby day trip to Nara, Kobe or Himeji.

Day 12: Osaka Departure

Enjoy your final breakfast in Japan and make your own way to the airport according to your departure time.

Made for travelers who want Japan’s timeless tradition and modern elegance in one route.

Highlights of Japan combines Tokyo’s trendsetting neighborhoods, Hakone’s Fuji-view nature and onsen culture, Kyoto’s temples and historic streets, and Osaka’s lively food scene.

Duration12 Days / 11 Nights Japan Culture, Nature & City Journey

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Highlights of Japan

Tokyo buzz, Hakone onsen, Kyoto temples, bamboo forests and Osaka street food.

Daily Program

12-Day Japan Itinerary

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