A Family Adventure to Japan

March 23rd - 26th | Tokyo

• Janu

March 26th - 27th | Hakone

• Hiramatsu

March 27th - March 29th | Kyoto

• Four Seasons Kyoto

March 29th - April 1st | Osaka

• Booked Independently

We have put together this Destination Guide for you, full of unique insights and ways to get excited before you travel, such as:

• Spotify playlists
  
• Dishes to try
  
• Helpful phrases
  
• Packing guide
  
• Tipping guides

Plus more!

• Scenset's Guide to Japan

Note: Look out for a sign displaying your name.

Proceed by private transfer to your hotel. From Haneda, this should take about 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic.

• Contact number: If you have any problems, please call will be provided
  
• Duration: Approximately 30-60 minute drive

Booked by Scenset.

In order for your holiday to be as enjoyable and stress-free as possible, we have included a private and personalized orientation session, where you will be given everything you need to travel confidently in Japan.

One of our English-speaking staff members will meet you in the lobby of your hotel and will go through your itinerary with you, day by day, and answer any questions you may have. You’ll also receive your “welcome pack” of additional information, which should help you travel in Japan more easily!

Included.

Because open public wifi in Japan is very limited, a pocket wifi router will be included for use throughout the trip. This small gadget will allow connection of up to 10 devices, giving super-fast broadband wherever you are.

This will allow use of Maps on phones and provide an internet connection at all times, including on trains. The wifi router will be waiting upon arrival at the hotel. To return it, use the stamped, addressed envelope provided and post it at the airport on the day of departure from Japan.

Included.

Tokyo, a sprawling metropolis, is segmented into numerous districts, each evolving into a city centre of its own. The capital boasts a variety of downtown areas scattered across its expanse. Depending on your interests, you might find one area more appealing than another:

• Shibuya: A dynamic district teeming with youth. Be prepared to indulge in animal cafes, 100-yen shops, or irresistibly cute desserts that are almost too beautiful to consume.
  
• Shinjuku: The city that never sleeps. Shinjuku, with its vast office buildings, tailors its commercial offerings to entertain the hordes of Japanese office workers post-work. Discover the notorious Kabukicho, Tokyo’s largest red-light district, boasting nearly 300 nightclubs, love hotels, stores, host and hostess clubs, and restaurants that welcome patrons throughout the night.
  
• Ikebukuro: A historic artistic neighborhood that offers a more family-oriented atmosphere than Shibuya or Shinjuku, without sacrificing vibrancy. In the 1940s, Ikebukuro was a hub for artists’ studios, and its reputation as a center for art and culture persists, particularly in the western part. Known for its shopping, arcades, anime culture, and family outings at the city’s rooftop aquarium, Ikebukuro has something for everyone.
  
• Roppongi: An upscale area tailored for adults, Roppongi is favored by travelers for its plethora of tourist-friendly entertainment options. The district and its neighboring areas are populated with numerous embassies and a large expatriate community. In recent years, Roppongi has also emerged as a cultural hub, with several top-tier art galleries making their mark in the district.
  
• Ginza: Tokyo’s pioneer in Western-style shopping, Ginza is the go-to district for the city’s affluent shoppers. This lively upscale area features a lineup of prestigious department stores, luxury boutiques, art galleries, and exclusive dining establishments.
  
• Akihabara: A paradise for tech enthusiasts and fans of anime and pop culture, Akihabara is filled with electronic stores, manga shops, and themed cafes.
  
• Omotesando: Known for its sleek architecture, excellent shopping opportunities, and gourmet dining options, Omotesando offers a more upscale experience.
  
• Harajuku: Celebrated for its vibrant streets and cutting-edge fashion, Harajuku is a must-visit for those looking to experience Tokyo's youthful and trendy side.

Tokyo is a paradise for anime lovers. With its vibrant culture and countless spots dedicated to anime and manga, there's no shortage of things to do and places to explore. Here are some recommendations:

• Akihabara District: Dubbed the anime mecca, Akihabara is a bustling district filled with electronics stores, manga shops, and anime merchandise. Don't miss out on exploring its countless anime stores, and themed cafes, and enjoying the unique otaku culture.
  
• Ikebukuro: The area around Sunshine City is a hotspot for anime culture, focusing on female fans. You can find anime merchandise stores such as Animate, themed cafes, and the Pokémon Center.
  
• Ghibli Museum: Located in Mitaka, the Ghibli Museum is a magical place for fans of Studio Ghibli films. Explore the works of a renowned animation director through interactive exhibits, see exclusive short films, and enjoy the whimsical architecture of the museum itself.
  
• Nakano Broadway: This shopping complex is another haven for otaku culture. Aside from finding a vast collection of manga, anime DVDs, and collectibles, it's also known for its vintage items and niche hobby shops.
  
• Asagaya Anime Street: Although smaller than the other spots, Asagaya Anime Street offers a unique experience with its anime-themed shops and cafes nestled under the train tracks.
  
• Gundam Base Tokyo and the Unicorn Gundam Statue: If you're a fan of the Gundam series, don't miss the life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza in Odaiba. Inside, you'll find The Gundam Base Tokyo, offering a wide range of Gundam models and merchandise.
  
• Pokémon Centers: With several locations across Tokyo, Pokémon Centers are a must-visit for Pokémon fans, offering a wide range of merchandise and themed decorations.
  
• Anime and Manga-Themed Cafes: Tokyo is famous for its themed cafes, including maid cafes in Akihabara and numerous anime and video game-themed cafes scattered throughout the city. Reservations are often needed for the most popular ones, so plan ahead!
  
• Tokyo Anime Center: Located in DNP Plaza Shibuya, the Tokyo Anime Center regularly hosts exhibitions, workshops, and events related to current anime series and movies.
  
• Anime Film Screenings: Check out cinemas like TOHO Cinemas in Shinjuku or the Cinema Sunshine in Ikebukuro for the latest anime movie releases. Some even offer screenings of classic anime films.
  
• Virtual Reality (VR) Experiences: Several places in Tokyo offer VR experiences, including VR Zone Shinjuku, where you can immerse yourself in the worlds of popular anime and video games.

Knowing your love for anime and Japanese popular culture, you may love some of these unique experiences on your days at leisure in the city:

• Attend a Recording or a Voice Acting Workshop: For those deeply interested in the behind-the-scenes of anime, attending a voice recording session or participating in a voice acting workshop can be a dream come true. Some studios or schools offer sessions for English speakers, allowing fans to get a firsthand experience of the voice acting process.
  
• Explore Odaiba’s Palette Town: Odaiba is home to the life-sized Unicorn Gundam, but Palette Town is a lesser-known gem where the digital art museum teamLab Borderless offers an immersive experience that feels like stepping into an anime world. The interactive digital art installations are not explicitly anime, but they provide a futuristic backdrop akin to scenes from science fiction anime.
  
• Visit the Real-Life Locations of Your Favorite Anime: For fans of series like "Your Name" (君の名は。) or "March Comes in Like a Lion" (3月のライオン), exploring the real-life locations that inspired or featured in these anime offers a unique way to connect with the stories. Shinjuku, Shibuya, and the Chichibu region are just a few examples of locations that have become pilgrimage sites for fans.
  
• Join an Otaku Culture Tour: While exploring on your own is always an option, joining a tour tailored to anime fans can offer insights and access to hidden gems that you might not find otherwise. These tours are often led by local enthusiasts who are eager to share their knowledge and passion for anime and manga culture.
  
• Visit Tokyo’s Themed Bars and Cafés: Beyond the well-known maid cafes, Tokyo is home to numerous bars and cafes themed after popular anime and manga, offering a more adult atmosphere to enjoy anime culture. Some bars are dedicated to specific anime series, attracting fans who share a deep passion for the works.
  
• Customize Your Visit to Tokyo Character Street: Located below Tokyo Station, Tokyo Character Street offers a wide array of shops specializing in merchandise from countless anime, manga, and popular culture. The unique aspect is finding exclusive items and regional specialties that cater to specific fandoms.
  
• Anime Studio Tours: Some anime studios offer tours that allow fans to get a closer look at where and how their favorite series are created. Studio Ghibli is the most famous example, but with advance planning, finding other studios that open their doors to fans is possible.

Please note, these are recommendations only and no bookings have been made - let us know if you'd like us to book anything for you.

Tokyo is a fantastic location for kids! A few recommendations they might love are:

• Ueno Zoo: Home to a variety of animals, including pandas, Ueno Zoo is a great place for children to learn about wildlife.
  
• KidZania Tokyo: An interactive city made for children, KidZania allows kids to try out different professions and activities in a fun and educational environment.
  
• Odaiba: This futuristic waterfront area is packed with attractions, including the giant Gundam statue, Palette Town, and the Oedo Onsen Monogatari, a hot spring theme park.
  
• Asobono: Located in Tokyo Dome City, Asobono is an indoor playground that offers a variety of play areas for children.
  
• National Museum of Nature and Science: Located in Ueno Park, this museum offers interactive exhibits and displays that are both educational and entertaining for children.

These are recommendations only - no bookings have been made.

Janu

• Booked directly and independently.

Meet your guide in the lobby of your hotel in the morning.

• Guides Name: will be provided
  
• Number: If you have any problems, please call will be provided

Touring today will be done by private vehicle and is available until 5pm.

Booked by a client.

Spend today with your guide comprehensively exploring the exciting Western neighborhoods of central Tokyo. Your guide will take you to roam the grounds of Meiji Jingu, one of Tokyo's oldest and most important shrines. Set in forestland, the shrine's space offers a spiritual contrast to the bustle of the city and neighboring Harajuku. The Inner Gardens are particularly beautiful.

After appreciating the shrine, delight in the vibrancy of Harajuku. The trendy neighborhood boasts a crazy cornucopia of fashionable cafes and boutique shops. A feast for the eyes as well as the stomach, try some delicious Harajuku crepes, or escape the busy streets in a cute animal cafe - there's a reason Harajuku is the center of youth culture in Tokyo.

From fanciful fashion to fantastic architecture, Omotesando is only a short distance from Harajuku, and you can enjoy trying to identify the unique features of its buildings. The area features some outstanding designs by more great modern architects than anywhere else, including Tadao Ando's Omotesando Hills development, as well as Prada's flagship store.

This afternoon, head to Shibuya for a real taste of modern Tokyo. One of the city’s most colorful districts, observe the organized chaos of the famous Shibuya crossing and find your favorite of the many great game arcades. You can create personalized memories in the popular Purikura photo booths by offering uniquely Japanese arcade games and machines.

While in Shibuya you will also have the opportunity to visit a cat cafe and the Lion Coffee Shop.

If time allows, there may also be a chance to visit Shinjuku; the area is known for its skyscrapers, the impressive Metropolitan Government building, the quiet green of Shinjuku Gyoen Park, and a wealth of shopping centers with nearly every kind of store imaginable. With Shinjuku Station being the world’s busiest station, you also have the opportunity to relish unparalleled people-watching.

• Guide name: will be provided
  
• Number: If you have any problems, please call will be provided
  
• Start time: Morning
  
• End time: Late afternoon
  
• Duration: 8hrs

Booked by Scenset.

Why not head out tonight for some karaoke? Unleash your inner superstar and sing your heart out at one of the many bars across Tokyo specialising in the iconic karaoke-culture.

This is a suggestion only and no bookings have been made.

Janu

• Booked directly and independently.

Meet your guide in the hotel lobby in the morning.

• Guide name: will be provided
  
• Number: If you have any problems, please call will be provided

Touring today will be done by private vehicle and is available until 5pm.

Booked by a representative.

Spend today exploring more of Tokyo with your guide. Start the day at Tsukiji market, where you will be able to discover its bustling Outer Market. Although Tokyo's main fish market moved to its new home in Toyosu a few years ago, Tsukiji remains a vibrant marketplace and many of its original shops and restaurants remain.

Afterwards, head on to Hamarikyu Garden. Located right by Tokyo Bay, it features tidal seawater ponds, as well as a tea house on an island, where visitors can take a rest and enjoy the scenery. The traditionally styled garden stands in stark contrast to the skyscrapers of the neighboring Shiodome district.

Continue to the district that has become synonymous with technology; Akihabara. Known as ‘electric town’ not only for its many electronics stores, but also the electric atmosphere from its eccentric dining options and niche-interest stores dedicated to anime, manga, and music groups. With a truly eclectic mix of establishments, you can buy the latest consumer electronics alongside second-hand computer parts and cameras in giant stores like Yodobashi Camera, as well as adorable and often bizarre merchandise on Akihabara’s streets.

End the day in the iconic streets of Asakusa, known for the famous Buddhist temple, Senso-ji, with a striking red structure that’s often used as a symbol of the city. As the oldest temple in Tokyo, Senso-ji is also one of the most visited spiritual sites in the world. Traverse the paths around the temple and discover an enticing mix souvenir shops and traditional stores.

• Guide name: will be provided
  
• Number: If you have any problems, please call will be provided
  
• Start time: Morning
  
• End time: Afternoon
  
• Duration: A full day

Booked by Scenset.

Tonight, dine at Coquelicot.

• Address: 〒107-0052 東京都港区赤坂2-19-4, こくりこ COQUELICOT, 2 Chome-19-4, Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0052
  
• Google Maps link: Here
  
• Time: Evening
  
• Booked under name: will be provided

Booked by Scenset

Because luggage space on trains is very limited and to allow you to travel comfortably, your luggage will be sent ahead from Tokyo to Kyoto overnight. We suggest packing overnight bags as you will be without the bulk of your luggage for an evening.

Please note that there is a weight limit of 30kg for each individual piece of luggage. Please bring your luggage, packed and ready to send, to the hotel front desk in the morning.

Meet your guide in the lobby of your hotel in the morning.

• Guide: will be provided
  
• Number: If you have any problems, please call will be provided

You will be transferred to the Kamakura area by private vehicle. The trip will take between 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic conditions.

Put your Japan Spotify playlist on, relax, and enjoy the scenery!

Your guide will meet you after breakfast and you'll be taken to Hakone via the historic town of Kamakura. You will first visit the Taya Caves, where, roughly between 1200 and 1700, Shingon Buddhist monks carved an underground maze of tunnels behind a temple as a site for spiritual training. From there, continue to Kamakura.

You'll see Hase-dera Temple and see the iconic Daibutsu Buddha at nearby Kotoku-in, before heading on to Hakone. Take the 'pirate ship' from Moto Hakone across Lake Ashi to Togendai, then ride the cable car over the Great Boiling Valley, where steam rises dramatically from the rocks below and from where, weather permitting, there are great views of Mt Fuji.

• Guide name: will be provided
  
• Number: If you have any problems, please call will be provided
  
• Start time: Morning
  
• End time: Afternoon
  
• Duration: 8hrs

Booked by Scenset.

After touring, you will be driven to Hakone.

The Hiramatsu

• 2 x Annex Junior Suite with Private Onsen Bath
  
• Breakfast & Dinner included

Booked by a person.

Meet your English speaking driver in the hotel lobby in the morning and transfer to Odawara Station (40-60 minutes, depending on traffic) where you will be escorted to the bullet train to Kyoto in 1st class.

• Number: If you have any problems, please call will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Tokyo and major cities may be buzzing tumultuously with background sounds from blaring advertisement screens or salespeople screaming out deals outside the stores, but you are also expected to be quiet – especially when on the train, bus, and other public places.

Talking on the train is not banned, but if your voice is loud enough to be heard by those around you, it is considered annoying and rude. People are aware that they are sharing space with others, so keeping any noises at a low volume – including turning the sound off on your smartphone and not receiving calls on board – is considered an understood etiquette.

As you disembark the train you will meet your guide at the platform. He/She will know from which car you will be exiting.

Note: When trains arrive there can be a crowd of people. If you don't immediately see your driver please wait a few minutes for the crowds to disperse, before calling.

Set out for an afternoon of touring. As you will have a private vehicle, you can leave your luggage in the car whilst you explore.

Booked by Scenset.

Your guide will meet you on arrival in Kyoto and you'll head off to explore the wonders in the west of the city, visiting the Arashiyama area, at the base of Kyoto’s Western hills. Famous for its groves of bamboo, the green towers swaying in the breeze, Arashiyama is also home to a famous bridge which has been depicted in woodblock paintings for centuries. Cross over this bridge as you follow the Hozu River, which widens in Arashiyama. Immerse yourself in the old-timey atmosphere of the area, and keep your eye out for the charming kimono and yukata patterns you’re likely to see worn during the Spring and Autumn.

Visit Tenryu-ji temple to see the most impressive of the bamboo groves, found outside the temple’s Northern gate. Ranked first among Kyoto’s five great Zen temples, Tenryu-ji is now registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the main hall, look up to find a stunning Cloud-Dragon mural painted on the ceiling. Majestic outside as well as in, promenade around the temple’s perfectly scaped rock and pond garden. Tenryu-ji carries spiritual as well as aesthetic significance, being the head temple of its own school within the Rinzai Zen sect of Japanese Buddhism, and soak up this atmosphere as you look around.

We also recommend Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, a small but charming temple hidden away at the far end of the Arashiyama neighborhood. This temple houses 1200 stone sculptures of rakan, the Buddha’s disciples, all with different facial expressions and poses. Dotted around the temple grounds, it’s well worth seeking out all the statues to admire the craftmanship and, with all the different expressions, you’re sure to find one you love!

• Guide name: will be provided
  
• Number: If you have any problems, please call will be provided
  
• Start time: midday
  
• End time: early afternoon
  
• Duration: approximately 4 hours

Booked by Scenset.

Tonight, enjoy dinner at Rakuza Hareruya!

• Address: 〒604-8126 京都府京都市中京区高倉通錦小路上る貝屋町568, 568 Kaiyachō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8126
  
• Google Maps link: Here
  
• Time: Evening
  
• Booked under name: will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Four Seasons Kyoto

• 1 x King Room and 1 x Twin room including extra bed
  
• Breakfast included

Booked by a guest.

Enjoy a Samurai Sword Cutting experience. A swordmaster will go through the techniques needed for a successful cut. Time will be given to practice posture and stance before using a katana on the tatami.

• Address: Teramachi Utanokoji building 2F, 292, Higashidaimonjicho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan.
  
• Website link: Here
  
• Number: If you have any problems, please call (whatsapp) will be provided.
  
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes

Booked and arranged independently.

As a complimentary experience, a surprise Tea Ceremony with tea masters has been arranged for you to enjoy.

• Address: 〒604-0812 京都市中京区高倉通り二条上る天守町761, WAKWAKKAN - 761 Tenshucho, Takakura-dori, Nijo-agaru, Nakagyoku, Kyoto 604-0812.
  
• Google Maps link: Here.
  
• Number: If you have any problems, please call will be provided.
  
• Duration: 1 hour
  
• This is a complimentary experience.

Booked by Scenset, transportation arranged independently.

For the perfect day exploring, we recommend:

• Start at Kiyomizu Temple, also known as Kiyomizu-dera. This impressively beautiful temple complex sits in the hillside and looks out over the city. Red pagodas and wooden structures emerge from staggered heights, meaning every area of the temple has a unique visual draw.
  
• As you leave the temple, descend the paved streets of Sannen-zaka. These streets frame some of Kyoto’s iconic shots, with the traditional buildings housing colourful and lively shops that open onto the wide walkways - this is an excellent area to find souvenirs and gifts! (note that you can start your day however you'd like, as these are recommendations).
  
• After taking in your fill of this bustling area, head North to Yasaka-jinja. From there, make your way to the special surprise prepared by Scenset, a Tea Ceremony at midday with the tea masters.
  
• Afterwards, we suggest heading to nearby Nishiki Market, a long, narrow, covered street packed with shops selling local specialties. Sometimes called Kyoto’s kitchen, barrels of fresh and pickled vegetables spill out into the street, and the air is fragrant with the savoury smell of sembei crackers being grilled and dumplings steamed. Many of the shops offer free samples, making Nishiki Market a wonderful way to stock up on unique Japanese picnic supplies and delicacies for lunch. We also highly recommend getting some delicious, freshly made soymilk donuts from Fujino Tofu's Konnamonja store while in the market.
  
• End the day with a visit to Nijo Castle, UNESCO World Heritage site and former residence of the Tokugawa Shogun. As you explore the fascinating interior, you’ll discover the ‘nightingale’ floorboards, so-called because their design causes them to squeak when stepped upon - almost like a chirp. Immediately outside the castle, you can enjoy strolling around the grounds and beautiful gardens, populated by many maple and gingko trees.

This is a recommendation only - no bookings have been made.

Blending innovative ideas with traditions spanning centuries, Japan's ancient imperial city buzzes with the energy of skilled artisans.

A few of our favourites are:

• Kanaami-Tsuji - in his workshop near Kodai-ji Temple, an artisan modernizes the traditional kyo-kanaami metal weaving passed down through his family, creating both beautiful and durable items like tofu servers and wire baskets. Close by, a cleaning supply shop since 1818 near Sanjo Bridge, offers natural palm brooms and scrubbers, serving ryokan innkeepers and temple caretakers.
  
• Hisoca is great for ceramics! Located west of the Imperial Palace, Hisoca is a cozy shop where the owner offers a collection of joy-sparking, mainly Japanese-crafted dining essentials. The range includes traditional nabe pots, Okayama plates, Osakan wooden trays, and locally made smoked-glass cups, beautifully presented on the shop’s shelves.
  
• Good is Good - the minimalist Good Is Good, opened by an artist couple near the atelier-packed Kita-ku ward doubles as an art gallery, ceramics store and teahouse. Rotating exhibitions with works by the owners and their artistic friends dictate the store’s erratic opening hours.
  
• Saluk, located in a village on the way to Kurama-dera temple, Saluk is a craft gallery featuring metalware by a Kyushu-born artisan, made in her workshop there. Her notable creations include silver-laced chopstick rests and flavor-enhancing tin sake cups. Besides metalware, Saluk offers whimsical glass art, rustic Hokkaido ceramics, and notebooks with reclaimed kimono fabric covers.
  
• Shuka, dubbed a "bean boutique," the family-operated Shuka focuses on a select range of carefully chosen seeds and beans – including local adzuki beans, Indonesian cashews, and black soybeans from Hyogo. They expertly cook, dry and then sweeten these beans with specific types of sugar to complement their natural flavors.
  
• Yugen is great for matcha an approachable alternative to the slightly intimidating traditional teahouses. From behind a bar-like counter, the staff can advise you on their selection of locally grown matcha teas, while the bamboo whisks from Nara and ceramic tea bowls help you build out your expert-level matcha kit.
  
• Graphpaper, launched in 2015 by an individual, is known for its minimalist streetwear, including boxy shirts and neutral basics, and has quickly gained popularity in Tokyo. Its Kyoto branch occupies a century-old machiya in Nakagyo-ku, blending traditional architecture with a modern concrete exterior. Inside, a mossy courtyard leads to a kura storehouse turned display room, showcasing exclusive collaborations with global brands like Mizuno and Is-ness.
  
• POJ Studio (short for Pieces of Japan), aims to demystify the world of Japanese craft by bringing artisans and their stories together in a shoppable showroom. Pitched up in a timeworn machiya townhouse behind the Toyokuni Shrine in the east of the city, the space is a one-stop shop for rustic dinnerware, indigo-dyed noren curtains, and made-to-order furniture crafted from hinoki wood. The workshop upstairs hosts incense-making classes and kintsugi (repairing with gold lacquer) sessions led by a master craftsman.
  
• D&Department, nestled within a wooden structure at the 14th-century Bukko-ji temple, curates timeless and durable goods from across Japan's 47 prefectures, including enamel kettles from Tochigi, lacquer bowls from Ishikawa, and washi paper stationery from Toyama. The store focuses especially on Kyoto products, featuring tea from the historic Horaido teashop, urushi-coated straws, and natural dashi powders by the 1803-established Uneno.

These are recommendations only.

Four Seasons Kyoto

• 1 x King Room and 1 x Twin room including extra bed
  
• Breakfast included

Booked by a guest.

Meet your guide in the lobby of your hotel in the morning.

• Guide: will be provided
  
• Number: will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Touring today will be done by private vehicle.

• Guide name: will be provided
  
• Number: If you have any problems, please call will be provided
  
• Start time: Morning
  
• End time: Late afternoon
  
• Duration: 8hrs

Booked by Scenset.

On your journey departing Kyoto, stop off at Fushimi Shrine which boasts a thousand of red torii gates donated by worshippers. The shrine was the filming location for the movie "Sayuri", based on the best-selling novel "Memoirs of Geisha".

Included.

Your first stop in the ancient capital of Nara will be Todaiji Temple, where the Great Buddha is housed in the largest wooden structure in the world.

Included.

End your day at Nara Park, a large park in the center of the city. It was established in the late 19th century and is surrounded by many of Nara's most famous sightseeing spots. The park is home to over one thousand deer. Once considered the messengers of the gods, they are now a symbol of the city and are now known as a natural treasure. Deer crackers are for sale around the park. The deer are tame and even polite, but can be aggressive at times!

Included.

After your tour has finished, head to your hotel and check in.

After settling into your hotel, you'll have an evening food tour exploring some of the best spots to eat in Osaka.

Osaka is a veritable concrete jungle, teeming with bars, restaurants, food stalls and merriment. Soak up the atmosphere with a specialist guide, a British expat who has called Osaka his home for many years. You’ll be able to ask any and all questions you'd like to gain the perspective and insight you need of this wonderful place! Together you will explore some of Osaka's quirkier locations and nightlife spots, and eat like a "real" Osakan.

The tour will be tailored to your food preferences. You’ll begin with a visit to Shinsekai, and sample kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). Fancy something up-market? Explore the basement food halls in Umeda, or browse the markets in Tenma. Keen to go for drinks like a local? Check-out Namba’s bar scene with our guide: from bicycle bars, to tiny hole-in-the-wall venues, your guide will show you the places where locals like to hang-out, but which are inaccessible to non-Japanese speaking tourists. This tour is a must for those who like to explore a city from a culinary perspective. A memorable night awaits!

• Guide name: will be provided
  
• Number: If you have any problems, please call will be provided
  
• Start time: Early evening
  
• End time: Late evening
  
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours

Booked by Scenset

Your accommodation in Osaka has been secured independently and on your own arrangement.

For the perfect day exploring, we recommend:

• We suggest you start by strolling around Osaka’s Kita area, where we recommend seeing the city from above by visiting the observatory at the Shin Umeda City Building, and below, in the underground shopping malls and arcades.
  
• From here, visit Osaka Castle: the imposing castle structure spans five stories on the outside and eight stories on the inside, and is built on a tall stone foundation. Equally attractive are the expansive grounds.
  
• Following this, perhaps visit Shitennoji, one of Japan's oldest temples and the first ever to be built by the state. Nearby you'll find the Gokuraku-jodo Garden, designed based on descriptions of the Western Paradise of the Amida Buddha. The temple complex offers many items of historical interest. You can visit the treasure house which displays paintings, scriptures and other valuable belongings of the temple in periodic, themed exhibitions.
  
• Towards late afternoon, head on to the Dotonbori entertainment district, where you can experience Osaka’s famous food and entertainment culture.

These are recommendations only.

A few areas which are great for shopping are:

• Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade: This is one of Osaka's oldest and busiest shopping destinations, offering a wide range of shops from high-end boutiques to local brands. It's a great place to find fashion items, accessories, and souvenirs.
  
• Dotonbori Canal Area: Famous for its massive billboards and vibrant nightlife, Dotonbori is also a fantastic shopping area. You can find a variety of shops selling local snacks, souvenirs, and fashion items.
  
• Umeda: This area is known for its modern shopping complexes and department stores. Umeda is a great place to shop for the latest fashion, electronics, and luxury brands.
  
• Hozenji Yokocho Bar Alley Vicinity: While primarily known for its quaint bars and eateries, the area around Hozenji Yokocho offers a unique shopping experience with its small, traditional shops selling a variety of goods.
  
• Namba: Another bustling shopping and entertainment district, Namba boasts a wide array of stores, from large department stores and electronic shops to small boutiques and specialty stores.

Tonight, dinner is at Sushi Kappo Seitarou.

Indulge in an exquisite dining experience at Seitarou Sushi in Osaka, where skilled chefs craft delicate and fresh sushi creations right before your eyes. Savor the melt-in-your-mouth texture and delightful flavors of each carefully prepared piece, accompanied by the warm ambiance and attentive service of this renowned sushi establishment.

• Address: 1 Chome-7-11 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071
  
• Google Maps link: Here
  
• Time: Evening
  
• Booked under name: will be provided

Booked by scenset, paid locally.

Your accommodation in Osaka has been secured independently and on your own arrangement.

Enjoy another day exploring more of Osaka at leisure - we recommend visiting the Osaka Bay area.

• Start with a visit to one of the largest aquariums in the world. This excellent aquarium displays marine life in several habitats comprising 27 tanks in 16 main exhibits with a total volume of 10,941 tons of water.
  
• Nearby, you'll find the Tempozan Ferris Wheel. Reaching a height of 112 meters, this is one of the largest Ferris wheels in the world and offers incredible views of the Bay Area, Osaka, and Kobe beyond.
  
• Head on to wander through the Naniwa Food Park (Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokocho) to sample Osaka’s street cuisine, before ending the day by climbing Japan’s smallest official mountain - at only 4.5m high, you won’t need crampons to ascend Mt Tempo! You can even get a certificate commemorating your achievement from select local merchants, provided you also make a purchase.

These are recommendations only.

In Osaka, anime enthusiasts can indulge in a variety of anime-related activities, including:

• Visiting Nipponbashi: Often referred to as Osaka's Akihabara, Nipponbashi is a haven for anime and manga fans. The area is filled with shops selling anime merchandise, manga, and collectibles. You can also find themed cafes and video game stores here.
  
• Exploring Anime-themed Cafes: Osaka has several anime and manga-themed cafes where you can enjoy food and drinks inspired by your favorite characters and series. These cafes often feature unique decor and offer limited-edition merchandise.
  
• Shopping at Anime Merchandise Stores: Beyond Nipponbashi, Osaka has numerous stores dedicated to anime merchandise. These range from large chains offering a wide variety of goods to small, specialized shops focusing on specific series or genres.
  
• Attending Anime Events and Conventions: Osaka hosts several anime conventions and events throughout the year, where fans can meet, attend panels, buy exclusive merchandise, and participate in cosplay.
  
• Visiting Universal Studios Japan: While not exclusively anime-themed, Universal Studios Japan in Osaka often features anime-themed attractions and events. These can include rides, shows, and special merchandise related to popular anime series.

These are recommendations only.

Your accommodation in Osaka has been secured independently and on your own arrangement.

Your guide will be waiting for you outside of your accommodation for your private transfer.

• Time: Morning
  
• Driver: will be provided
  
• Number: If you have any problems, please call will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Disembark the train and meet your English speaking assistant on the platform. Proceed by private transfer to Haneda airport.

Note: If you have sent your luggage to a Tokyo hotel, we can stop there first to collect it.

• Driver: will be provided
  
• Number: If you have any problems, please call will be provided.
  
• Duration: approximately 15 minutes

Booked by Scenset.

Thank you for traveling with us.

We hope that we were able to help you build lasting memories of your time in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Scenset invests in making the world a better place. Scenset will offset the fuel used during the trip. On top of that, an extra 10% will be offset to make the trip a carbon-positive experience.

Currently, support is provided for Gold Standard Climate+ Projects from the Gold Standard Foundation.