A Trip to Japan
Welcome to Japan, one of the World's most fascinating destinations. Here you can find a perfect blend of the modern and traditional, where futuristic neon signs stand side by side with ancient temples. It's also one of the great foodie destinations, and from casual street food to elegant Michelin starred cuisine, you will not go hungry!
May 29th – June 1st
- Tokyo | 3 nights | Aman Tokyo
June 1st - 3rd
- Kanazawa | 2 nights | Hyatt Centric Kanazawa
June 3rd - 4th
- Kagaonsen | 1 night | Beniya Mukayu
June 4th - 7th
- Kyoto | 3 nights | The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
Arrive in Tokyo on your international flight.
Booked Independently
Upon arrival in Tokyo, meet your English-speaking VIP escort staff at the boarding gate. You will pass through immigration and customs in the priority lane. You will be escorted to the arrival lobby, and meet your English-speaking escort staff in the arrival lobby.
Booked by Scenset
You will then receive a private transfer to your hotel in Tokyo.
This is a transfer of approximately 90 minutes, traffic permitting.
Booked by Scenset
One of the world’s most cutting-edge capitals, Tokyo is a city of contrasts. Famous for its sprawling neon-lit landscape it is also home to expansive parkland, peaceful shrines and temples, and lovingly tended gardens. On the surface, Tokyo is a mix of digital trends and conspicuous consumption, but dig deeper and you will find a city rooted deeply in the traditional culture. Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples stand close to skyscrapers as a reminder of a more contemplative time.
From the heights of the Otemachi Tower, Aman Tokyo tempers urban dynamism with a profound atmosphere of serenity. Inspired by Japanese design tradition, with ikebana displays, washi paper doors and engawa platforms, the vast lobby, ryokan-style rooms and Aman Spa are all among the city’s largest.
After settling into your hotel, head down to the hotel lobby to meet your English-speaking guide. Tour by private car.
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Meeting Time: Afternoon
Please note that the flow of your itinerary in Japan including the various sites you will visit are subject to change based on your guide's discretion as it pertains to traffic, weather, and timing.
Start your touring at Tokyo Tower.
Tokyo Tower is a 333-meter-high communications tower located in the heart of Tokyo. Inspired by the Eiffel Tower in Paris, it was built in 1958 and quickly became one of Tokyo's most iconic landmarks. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck, which stands at 150 meters high. There are also a variety of restaurants, souvenir shops, and exhibitions located within the tower, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. Tokyo Tower is a must-visit attraction for anyone looking to experience the best of Tokyo's skyline and enjoy stunning views of the cityscape.
Continue on to the Imperial Palace, also known as the Tokyo Imperial Palace, which is the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan and the imperial family. Located in the heart of Tokyo, the palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and serves as a symbol of Japan's rich history and cultural heritage. Although the palace is not open to the public, visitors can explore the surrounding gardens and enjoy the stunning views of the palace's historic buildings and moats. The Imperial Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture, history, and architecture.
In the late afternoon, you'll be transferred to your hotel for the evening.
Meet your private guide in the lobby of the hotel and set out by private car for your guided tour.
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Meeting Time: Morning
Duration: 7 hours
Booked by Scenset
Every day, from Monday to Saturday, Toyosu Fish Market opens up to the general public after the early morning auction. This is an excellent chance to discover some of the world’s best seafood and see this famous market in action.
While the inner market of Tsukiji has many shops that sell business to business, the outer market in Tsukiji is a wonderful chance to sample a wide variety of some of Japan's finest seafood and various fresh, hot snacks.
Your tour today will take you to the outer market to experience some of Tsukiji’s best eating (and drinking). We recommend the yaki-tamago - a sweet, custard like scrambled egg pan fried in layers and served fresh out of the pan.
Note: Food is included in your outer market tour!
After your time at Tsukiji Market, experience a private sushi class at a sushi restaurant. A master chef will show you how to slice sashimi and make nigiri. With detailed instruction, you will make your own nigiri for lunch, using fresh ingredients from the market.
Booked by a user
Meiji Shrine was built nearly 100 years ago to commemorate Emperor Meiji’s contribution to modern Japan. The shrine is entirely surrounded by a forest, with an area of 70 hectares of land and over 120,000 trees, all of which were donated to the shrine from different parts of Japan.
Although rather young compared with other shrines, Meiji shrine has its own dramatic story to tell. While the original construction of the shrine was completed in 1926, the shrine was destroyed during the bombings of World War II and rebuilt in 1958.
If you’re lucky, you’ll spot a couple on their wedding day, making their way through the shrine’s grounds on their way to their ceremony.
Harajuku’s Takeshita Street - This narrow, crowded street is lined with shops that sell the latest fashion trends, sweets, and other interesting items. It is in this area that some of the outrageous fashion that Japan is known for originates.
As the trendy streets of Harajuku end, the amazing architecture of Omotesando begins. With seemingly endless modern, cutting-edge architecture, great shopping, and delicious restaurants, Omotesando is Tokyo’s Champs-Elysées Boulevard. Many of the buildings along this street were designed by Pritzker Prize winning architects such as Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa.
In Shibuya, one can witness (and experience) the world's busiest intersection, as well as one of Japan's most endearing symbols of loyalty - the statue of Hachiko.
The Shibuya scramble is located in the heart of Shibuya's shopping district. Due to its proximity with many popular stores, Shibuya Station, and the location of countless delicious eating spots, the intersection regularly sees thousands of people cross each time the traffic lights turn red and the pedestrian lights turn green.
Also located in Shibuya is the bronze statue of the dog Hachiko. Hachiko was well known for his loyalty in waiting for his master for nearly 10 years, arriving at the station daily in anticipation of his master's return from work.
Soon after, a statue was erected in his honor. Unfortunately the statue was melted down during World War II, but the current replica was commissioned shortly after.
Booked by a user
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel arriving in the early afternoon. You'll have time to freshen up and relax before heading out for a street food tour in the Shinjuku neighborhood.
Meet your English-speaking food expert in the hotel lobby. Transfer to Shinjuku using public transportation.
You'll enjoy a private food tour led by a local expert around Golden-gai and Omoide Yokocho. Your tour will begin in Omoide Yokocho, a charming area near Shinjuku Station. Originally a black market in the 1940s, Omoide Yokocho is now a tiny alley full of local restaurants and bars. Experience Tokyo’s post-WWII scenset while enjoying food and drinks at popular Izakayas (Japanese gastropubs). You’ll also see the vibrant nightlife of Kabukicho. Known as a safe red-light district, Kabukicho offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s nightlife.
The final stop is Golden Gai, a collection of 6 tiny alleys with over 200 bars. Your guides will take you to Golden Gai’s most authentic bars, typically frequented by locals.
Transfer back to your hotel using public transportation. The tour concludes at your hotel.
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Meeting Time: Around 5:30pm
Meet your guide in the hotel lobby and set out for a private guided tour on your final day in Tokyo.
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Meeting Time: In the morning
Duration: 8 hours
Booked by Scenset
Located in the heart of Tokyo, the vibrant Asakusa district is a captivating blend of old and new, where ancient traditions and modern attractions seamlessly coexist. Stepping into Asakusa feels like a journey back in time, with its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and historic landmarks. The district is most renowned for Senso-ji, one of Tokyo's oldest and most significant Buddhist temples, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to admire its magnificent red gate (Kaminarimon) and explore the bustling Nakamise shopping street, filled with stalls selling traditional snacks, souvenirs, and crafts.
Beyond its cultural treasures, Asakusa offers a vibrant atmosphere with its lively marketplaces, traditional restaurants serving mouth-watering local delicacies, and the chance to experience traditional Japanese festivals and events throughout the year. Whether it's immersing in rich history, shopping for unique souvenirs, or savoring the flavors of Japan, Asakusa offers a captivating experience that showcases the essence of Tokyo's rich heritage.
Sensōji Temple is the oldest temple in Tokyo, having been built in 645AD.
Unfortunately, after remaining relatively unscathed for 13 centuries, it was destroyed during WWII. Sensoji was rebuilt after the war and has become a symbol of rebirth of the city and the nation.
Nowadays, millions of people step through the Kaminarimon or Thunder Gate, famous for its huge lantern, and stroll along Nakamisedori, the street leading to the temple, filled with small shops selling all manners of goods.
Finish your day first walking through Kaminarimon gate and Nakamise arcade lined with craft and souvenir shops. After that, you will be escorted to Hama Rikyu Garden. Hama Rikyu Garden is a large, attractive landscape garden in central Tokyo. Located alongside Tokyo Bay, it features seawater ponds which change level with the tides, and a teahouse on an island where visitors can rest and enjoy the scenery.
You will be returned to your hotel in the late afternoon for the remainder of the evening at your leisure.
On the bullet and express trains, luggage with total dimensions of no more than 160 cm/62 inch (30 x 50 x 80 cm/ 11.8 x 19.6 x 31.4 inch) can be brought into the train and stored overhead, as the depth of bullet train luggage racks is approximately 42 cm/ 6.5 inch. In general, luggage of 120 cm/ 47 inch total dimensions (25 x 40 x 55 cm / 9.8 x 15.7 x 21.6 inch ) or less can be stored at your feet, although passengers might feel uncomfortable because it is not so spacious around their feet. There are no porters at the stations.
As there is no designated space for large suitcases on the bullet train, we strongly recommend luggage delivery service. If you drop off your luggage at the bell desk, you will receive it at your hotel in Kanazawa usually by the following day. Please note that due to special reasons (for example, bad weather, traffic condition, etc) there is a possibility that the delivery duration takes longer. Your guide will be happy to consult on this matter during the tour.
Meet your English-speaking driver in the hotel lobby. Private transfer to Tokyo station for your onward train to Kanazawa.
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Meeting Time: Morning
After disembarking from your train at Kanazawa station, meet your English-speaking guide on the platform. Tour by private car.
Meeting Time: Around midday
Booked by Scenset
During the Edo Period, Kanazawa served as the seat of a powerful feudal clan, second only to the Tokugawa in terms of rice production and fief size. Accordingly, Kanazawa grew to become a town of great cultural achievements. During World War II, Kanazawa was Japan's second-largest city (after Kyoto) to escape destruction by air raids. Consequently, parts of the old castle town, such as the Nagamachi samurai district and chaya entertainment districts, have survived in good condition.
Start at Omicho market and take a glimpse of local lifestyle. There are approximately 170 specialty food shops and restaurants, especially Kanazawa's quality seafood from the cold Japan Sea and fresh vegetables called Kaga Yasai.
Perhaps the most photogenic area in all of Kanazawa, Higashichayagai is an old style street lined with tea houses (higashi means "eastern", chaya means "tea houses", and gai means "neighborhood"). While some of these tea houses are now residences, many of them have been repurposed as boutique shops. The area offers an abundance of unique tasting opportunities and arts and crafts.
For a less crowded stroll, we recommend moving across the street to Kazue-machi. While the area doesn't offer as many options for eating and shopping, it does allow you to enjoy the unique architecture and street design at a more leisurely pace.
After touring, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in, arriving in the late afternoon.
Experience the best of Kanazawa when you stay at this upscale lifestyle hotel that celebrates the culture of the historic city—famous for its unique cuisine and geisha and samurai heritage. Situated just seconds from Kanazawa Station, Hyatt Centric Kanazawa is the perfect launchpad for exploring the city’s authentic art, shops, restaurants, and sights.
Meet your guide in the lobby of the hotel and set out for a private guided tour of Kanazawa.
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Meeting Time: Morning
Duration: 8 hours
Booked by Scenset
Start your day off with a Kaga Yuzen silk dyeing experience to see first-hand the local craftwork of Kanazawa.
The history of Kaga Yuzen dyeing dates back 500 years, to when Umezome (plain dyeing) was the distinctive dyeing technique of the Kaga district. In the mid 17th century, pattern and picture dyeing were introduced to produce elegant designs, and those techniques evolved into today’s Kaga Yuzen dyeing technique. In 1712, a noted designer of fans, came to Kanazawa from Kyoto as a designer and dyer. With their outstanding skill in dyeing using paste, they contributed greatly to the development of Kaga Yuzen dyeing. Kaga Yuzen dyeing flourished in Kanazawa under the patronage of the feudal lords of the Kaga district, and the city produced many outstanding dyers and designers. Kaga Yuzen uses five basic colors; indigo, crimson, ocher, dark green and royal purple, and the designs depict beautiful elements of nature such as flowers, birds and landscapes. The dyeing style is characterized by the technique of shading from the outside to the inside of the patterns, and by realistic motifs such as plants and flowers with leaves bitten by insects. The fact that techniques such as gold leaf application, tie-dyeing and embroidery are seldom used in Kaga Yuzen dyeing distinguishes it from Kyo-Yuzen (Yuzen dyeing in Kyoto). The designs used in the traditional dyeing technique of Kaga Yuzen highlight the delicacy and elegance of the Japanese spirit.
The history of Kenroku Garden dates back to 1676 when an individual began constructing a garden around their villa. For almost 200 years, the garden was private, until 1871 (the fourth year of the Meiji period) when the garden was first made available to the public.
Kenrokuen Garden is a beautiful traditional Japanese garden. It is one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan and is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, seasonal beauty, and historic architecture. The garden features a central pond, winding paths, and a variety of trees and flowers that change with the seasons, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
You'll then walk through Nagamachi Bukeyashiki street lined with former samurai residences.
One of the main attractions of the district is the centrally located Nomura-ke, a restored samurai residence displaying the lifestyle and artifacts of the time when samurai were prosperous. A high-ranking samurai family, like many other samurai, experienced financial hardship when Japan's feudal era ended with the Meiji Period. The displays of items are changed several times a year.
You will be transferred back to the hotel in the evening.
After breakfast and check-out, meet your English-speaking guide in the hotel lobby. Tour by private car.
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Meeting Time: Late morning
On the bullet and express trains, luggage with total dimensions of no more than 160 cm/62 inch (30 x 50 x 80 cm/ 11.8 x 19.6 x 31.4 inch) can be brought into the train and stored overhead, as the depth of bullet train luggage racks is approximately 42 cm/ 6.5 inch. In general, luggage of 120 cm/ 47 inch total dimensions (25 x 40 x 55 cm / 9.8 x 15.7 x 21.6 inch ) or less can be stored at your feet, although passengers might feel uncomfortable because it is not so spacious around their feet. There are no porters at the stations.
As there is no designated space for large suitcases on the bullet train, we would like to recommend luggage delivery service. If you drop off your luggage at the bell desk at your hotel in Kanazawa, you will receive it at your hotel in Kyoto usually by the following day. Please note that due to special reasons (for example, bad weather, traffic condition, etc) there is a possibility that the delivery duration takes longer. Your guide will be happy to consult on this matter during the tour.
You would need to bring an overnight bag for your stay in Kagaonsen.
Start at Kayano Osugi, appointed to natural monument of country in 2,300 years years old and sacred tree handed down and is known as power spot, and enjoy a beautiful view of Kakusenkei from Ayatori-hashi Bridge and Korogi-bashi Bridge, all-cypress bridge which is hanging over representative scenset of Yamanaka Onsen.
In ancient Japan, nature worship was common among people as they were very dependent on natural forces for healthy and productive crops and their day to day safety.
Located near one of Japan's three most sacred mountains, Mount Haku, is Natadera - a temple carved into the hillsides. The caves of Natadera symbolize a mothers womb – passing through them is a cleansing “rebirth”.
A great monk who lived over 1300 years ago, first climbed Mt Haku in the year 717. Upon his descent from the mountain, and exploring the local area, he established Natadera.
In its beginnings, Natadera, which was at that time called Iwaya Temple, was a rather humble temple. However, when the Emperor Kazan stayed in this area around the year 1000 AD, he fully supported its development and construction, allowing it to develop into its unique structure we see today.
Unfortunately, the temple was destroyed in subsequent wars, until it was rebuilt by the Maeda clan in the mid 1600s. The current reconstruction is historically accurate and its gardens and backwoods offer meditative strolling opportunities.
Round out the day with a visit to Kutaniyaki Kiln Museum. This is the site of a historic kiln that has been used ever since production of Kutani porcelain was restarted in the late Edo period in 1824. To pass this cultural legacy on to future generations, the kiln site was turned into a museum in 2002. In addition to displaying the remains of a climbing kiln that was used for over a century, the museum also features a new climbing kiln built to replace it and the former home of the kiln master, which is still used as a pottery workshop today.
After touring, you'll be dropped off in the late afternoon for your ryokan stay.
Kagaonsen is a historic town located in the Ishikawa prefecture of Japan, renowned for its hot springs and traditional Japanese inns (ryokans). The town's hot springs are said to have therapeutic benefits and are enjoyed by visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
Take some time at leisure to enjoy the hot springs of Kagaonsen along with some traditional tea.
This evening, enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at your ryokan.
The Beniya Mukayu is a serene and intimate ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) located in the picturesque town of Kagaonsen, known for its hot springs and beautiful natural surroundings.
From the exquisite kaiseki cuisine to the relaxing outdoor hot springs and spa, the Beniya Mukayu provides an authentic and unforgettable experience of Japanese hospitality and culture.
A Guest
Executive Suite with Private Open-Air Bath
- Inclusions: Half-Board (Dinner and Breakfast)
Booked by Scenset.
This morning after breakfast and check-out, you will transfer to Kaga Onsen station by a shuttle bus. The ryokan staff will help to facilitate this transfer.
Upon arrival at Tsuruga Station, transit to the express train independently. The bullet train platform is located on the 3rd floor and you will need to head down to the express train platform on the 1st floor.
Upon arrival at Kyoto Station, meet your private guide on the platform and immediately head out for an introductory tour of Kyoto.
Stop at Fushimi Shrine which boasts a thousand of red torii gates donated by worshippers. The shrine was a Hollywood movie shooting location, based on the best-selling novel "Memoir of Geisha".
Booked by Scenset
After your tour, you will be transferred to the hotel for check-in.
Kyoto is the nation’s former capital and was the residence of the emperor from 794 until 1868. With 2,000 religious buildings, including 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, as well as palaces, gardens, and associated architecture, it is one of the best-preserved cities in Japan and has 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Kyoto represents the “Japan of old” and beyond the high-rise skyscrapers built as a monument to progress, the real monument to Japan’s historical and cultural past can be found in the city’s narrow alleyways where tea houses abound and kimono-clad geisha hurry around.
The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto, the first luxury urban resort in Japan, sits on the banks of the Kamogawa River, with sweeping views of the famous Higashiyama mountains. This Kyoto, Japan hotel resort features 134 guest rooms with traditional Japanese motifs, four restaurants and bars including modern Japanese cuisine and a spa for the ultimate rejuvenation.
Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
Deluxe King Garden View Room
Inclusions:
- Daily breakfast
- F&B/Spa Hotel Credit per room to be used once during stay
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Complimentary upgrade to next room category up based on availability on arrival
Booked by a guest.
Meet in the hotel lobby this morning for a full day of exploring the peaceful temples of Kyoto with a private guide, culminating with a traditional tea ceremony.
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Meeting Time: Morning
Duration: About 8 hours
Booked by Scenset.
The bamboo forest offers paths for walking or biking. It is a must-see for those visiting Arashiyama. The bamboo grown here has been used for centuries for creating crafts, such as tea whisks, sake cups, baskets, and many others. Experience a fun rickshaw ride through the bamboo grove for around half an hour.
Kinkakuji, or the Golden Pavilion, is one of Japan’s iconic sites. The temple grounds first began as a small villa in 1224 and was converted to a Zen temple shortly after. Like so many other historical landmarks in Japan, the temple has unfortunately suffered destruction from fires in its history. The building, as it stands today, is a historically accurate reconstruction of the temple before it burned down from arson in 1950.
With a history dating back nearly 700 years, Tenryuji is one of Arashiyama's most visited sites, and for good reason. While the building complex has suffered from fire damage throughout history (like much of Japan), the stunning gardens remain in their scenset form. As you stroll through the garden, both from within the temple and on the garden paths, you'll move from the pond, which symbolizes a large lake, up the mountain and into the forest.
The Japanese tea ceremony, also known as Chanoyu or Sado, is a traditional cultural ritual that dates back centuries. It is a ceremonial way of preparing and serving tea to guests, embodying the principles of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. The ceremony is typically conducted in a serene and meditative setting, with the host preparing and serving the tea with grace and precision, using specialized utensils and techniques.
The guests observe and appreciate the aesthetics of the surroundings, including the architecture, the tea utensils, and the flower arrangement. The ceremony is a deeply spiritual experience, evoking a sense of calm and mindfulness, and is considered an important cultural tradition in Japan, reflecting the country's philosophy of finding beauty and meaning in everyday life.
Booked by a scenset participant.
Pontocho is possibly the city's most atmospheric dining locale. It is a thin, slightly crooked lane that runs one block west of Kamogawa River. The alley is a mix of dining opportunities ranging from inexpensive noodle and yakitori shops to high-end traditional and modern Kyoto cuisine. The shops line both sides of the alley.
You will be dropped off back at your hotel after touring in the late afternoon.
Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
Deluxe King Garden View Room
Inclusions:
- Daily breakfast
- F&B/Spa Hotel Credit per room to be used once during stay
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Complimentary upgrade to next room category up based on availability on arrival
Booked by someone.
Meet in the hotel lobby this morning for another full day navigating the paths and neighborhoods of Kyoto with a private guide.
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Start Time: Morning
Duration: 8 hours
Booked by Scenset.
Sanjusangendo is a historic Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. The temple is famous for its impressive main hall, which features 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The hall is the longest wooden structure in Japan and dates back to the 12th century.
Visitors to Sanjusangendo can marvel at the intricate details of the temple's architecture and the beauty of the Kannon statues, which are said to represent the many faces of mercy. The temple also features a beautiful garden and several smaller shrines and halls that offer a peaceful and serene atmosphere for meditation and contemplation.
You'll then visit Nishiki market, known as "Kyoto's kitchen," loved by professionals and locals. Your guide will happily show you unique Kyoto ingredients such as vegetables, tofu, sweets, tea, pickles, and more.
After that, a private visit to a machiya townhouse, typical wooden architecture which is registered as the city's cultural property. Take a glimpse of local lifestyle; the owner is happy to show you their living area, a beautiful small tsuboniwa garden, kitchen, etc. Enjoy a Kyoto-style home-cooked lunch using seasonal ingredients.
To end the day, you will be brought to a castle which boasts a massive architecture decorated with carvings and wall paintings. You'll then walk through a geisha quarter. There are many historical townhouses renovated into cafe and souvenir shops.
You will be brought back to the hotel in the late afternoon to relax before dinner.
Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
Deluxe King Garden View Room
Inclusions:
- Daily breakfast
- F&B/Spa Hotel Credit per room to be used once during stay
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Complimentary upgrade to next room category up based on availability on arrival
Booked by a guest.
Meet your English-speaking driver in the hotel lobby for a private transfer to Osaka.
Booked by Scenset
This morning after breakfast and check-out, meet your English-speaking driver in the hotel lobby. Private transfer to Kansai Airport (KIX) in Osaka.
Booked by Scenset
Depart on your international flight out of Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX).
Booked Independently
Please refer to our terms & conditions here.