Culinary Adventure in Japan

October 1st - 4th | Tokyo

• The Kitano Hotel

October 4th - 7th | Kyoto

• Ace Hotel Kyoto

October 7th - 9th | Osaka

• Conrad

October 9th - Departure

If you need any assistance while you are traveling, or if you would like to make any changes, reservations or cancellations during your time in Japan you can contact the following who will be your local contacts during your trip:

JAPAN
Local Guide Contact Information (Please only contact once in Japan):

• Tokyo: will be provided
  
• Kyoto & Osaka: will be provided

Local Emergency Contact

• will be provided

Scenset

• Your Curator: Carl
  
• Your Traveler Relations Rep: Liberty
  
• Scenset Emergency Line: +1 (415) 941-0027

Important: Due to the time difference, for small day-to-day things like touring and dining reservations - or emergencies that need immediate assistance - it will be most efficient for you to use the local contacts as they are in the same time zone as you.

October in Japan brings a refreshing change as the heat and humidity of summer give way to crisp, comfortable temperatures. The average temperature ranges from the mid-50s to the low 70s Fahrenheit (around 10-23°C), making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Clear skies and minimal rainfall are common, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the stunning autumn scenset and engage in various events and festivals.

Recently, Japanese trains have become more strict when it comes to luggage allowance.

On most lines, the total baggage dimension should not exceed 160 cm (63 inches). More details can be found here

If you have larger pieces of luggage, we recommend sending them to your next scenset via the takkyubin service. Your guides and the respective hotel staff will be able to easily facilitate this for you.

Note that you need to send it the day prior, in order for it to arrive on time.

The fee will be provided.

We'll be happy to chat with you about this in further detail.

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

We have designed a great playlist for you to enjoy before and during your trip to Japan!

• Japan is a curated selection of popular music from Japanese artists; straight off the streets of Tokyo!

Independently proceed through immigration & customs, before collecting your luggage. An English-speaking assistant will greet you at the arrivals hall and escort you to your private transfer.

• Meeting time: Late afternoon
  
• Meeting point: Arrivals hall
  
• Duration: 1 hour
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided | will be provided
  
• Contact: If you can't reach your contact above, please call will be provided | will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Check in to your hotel and settle into your accommodations for the remainder of the day and evening.

Take in your first dinner at Roppongi Robataya, a unique and intimate dining experience in Tokyo, where skilled chefs grill fresh ingredients over charcoal right before your eyes. This traditional Japanese robata-style restaurant offers a warm, rustic atmosphere and allows guests to interact with the chefs as they prepare an array of delectable dishes using premium seafood and seasonal vegetables.

• Reservation Time: Evening
  
• Reservation Name: will be provided x 4
  
• Restaurant Number: +81 (0)3-3408-9674
  
• Note: The stay time is approximately 2 hours. Restaurant only accepts lump sum payments. You can arrange transportation to the restaurant with the hotel concierge.
  
• Cancellation policy will be provided

Booked by Scenset, paid locally.

• Deluxe Room King x 2
  
• Breakfast included
  
• Confirmation numbers will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Today you will have a private vehicle, driver & guide at your disposal as you explore Tokyo. You'll start at Imperial Palace Plaza with a view of Double Bridges over historical moat, before visiting Meiji Shrine which is the most worshipped shrine in Japan, enshrined with Meiji Emperor. After, you'll walk to Harajuku, and you will be escorted to popular fashion boutiques of new-to-come designers and Kiddyland of Japanese characters. Walk through Omotesando, lined with fashion boutiques and gourmet shops. Here you'll find contemporary architecture designed by leading Japanese and international architects.

Your guide will recommend a local restaurant for lunch. After lunch, you'll be escorted to Shibuya, the largest pedestrian crossings in the world, and the centre of youth culture. Visit Shibuya Sky, 360° open-air observation deck at the rooftop of Shibuya Scramble Square. If time allows, you will be escorted to anime, game, character-related shops such as Pokemon, Jump, Nintendo, Hello Kitty, etc., according to your interest. After that, visit Teamlab Borderless Digital Art Museum which is currently the most popular museum in Japan, using 520 computers and 470 projectors. TeamLab is a group of various specialists such as artists, programmers, CG animators and mathematicians, etc. Enjoy a multi-sensory experience at the latest museum in Japan.

After your tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel in the early evening.

• Meeting time: Morning
  
• Meeting point: Hotel lobby
  
• Guide: will be provided
  
• Duration: 9 hours
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided
  
• Contact: If you can't reach your contact above, please call will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

The Imperial Palace, also known as the Tokyo Imperial Palace, 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.

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 is scenset.

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.

Catch the best views of Tokyo at this 360° open-air observation deck at the rooftop of Shibuya Scramble Square. Shibuya Sky is approximately 230 metres above ground and is the highest point in the district of Shibuya.

The ‘Sky Edge’, a corner where you can look down at the cityscape below without any obstructions and is a particularly good photo spot that provides a panoramic view of the city.

In addition to the breathtaking views, the rooftop also features hammocks for cloud watching and an observation compass to help you identify major landmarks in the distance such as Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Stadium and even Mt Fuji (on a clear day). At night, you'll be able to see a light show called the 'Crossing Light' as 18 beams illuminate the city sky.

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.

Lastly, visit the Teamlab Borderless Digital Art Museum, currently the most popular museum in Japan, using 520 computers and 470 projectors. TeamLab is a group of various specialists such as artists, programmers, CG animators, mathematicians, etc. Enjoy a multi-sensory experience at this state-of-the-art museum in Japan.

• Deluxe Room King x 2
  
• Breakfast included
  
• Confirmation numbers will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Today you will have a private vehicle, driver & guide at your disposal as you explore Tokyo. You'll start at Tsukiji Fish Market. Your guide will show you not only seafood but also kitchen utensils and other Japanese ingredients. After that, experience a private sushi class at one of the established sushi restaurants in the market. A master chef will show you how to slice sashimi and make nigiri. With detailed instructions, you will make your own nigiri for your lunch, using fresh ingredients from the market.

After lunch, you'll head to Asakusa, Sensoji Temple in the oldest district of Tokyo. Walk through Kaminarimon gate and Nakamise arcade lined with craft and souvenir shops. You'll then visit Akihabara and will be escorted to a variety of shops such as anime figures, clothes for anime cosplay as well as games, gadgets, latest models of electronic, etc. Your anime-savvy guide is happy to escort you to the shops you might be interested.

After your tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel in the early evening.

• Meeting time: Morning
  
• Meeting point: Hotel lobby
  
• Guide: will be provided
  
• Duration: 8 hours
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided
  
• Contact: If you can't reach your contact above, please call will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

For the discerning traveler seeking an immersive cultural experience, a visit to a Japanese fish market is a must. The outer market of Tsukiji is a great place to not only see seafood but also kitchen utensils and other Japanese ingredients; your guide will assist you with this.

Enjoy a private sushi class at a local restaurant. A master chef will show you how to slice sashimi and make nigiri. With detailed instructions, you will make your own nigiri for your lunch, using fresh ingredients purchased by the chef that morning.

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.

Akihabara, also known as "Electric Town," is a bustling district in central Tokyo that is famous for its electronics stores, anime shops, and video game arcades. The neighborhood is a hub for technology enthusiasts and pop culture fans, with countless stores selling everything from the latest gadgets and electronics to vintage video games and anime merchandise. Akihabara is also known for its colorful streets and vibrant atmosphere, with countless neon signs and cosplay costumes adding to its unique character. Whether you're a tech lover, a gaming enthusiast, or simply looking for a taste of Tokyo's vibrant pop culture scene, Akihabara is a must-visit destination that has something for everyone.

• Deluxe Room King x 2
  
• Breakfast included
  
• Confirmation numbers will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Check out, and proceed via private transfer to the bullet train station, ready to catch your train to Kyoto.

• Meeting time: In the morning
  
• Meeting point: Hotel lobby
  
• Duration: About 20 minutes
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided.
  
• Contact: If you can't reach your contact above, please call will be provided.

Booked by Scenset

Luggage allowance for trains & recommendation for Luggage delivery service

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 onto 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, a luggage delivery service is recommended. If you drop off your luggage at the bell desk at your hotel in Tokyo, you will receive it at your hotel in Kyoto usually by the following day. Please note that due to unforeseen circumstances (for example, bad weather, traffic conditions, etc.) there is a possibility that the delivery may take longer. Your guide will be happy to assist with this during the tour.


Luggage larger than 160 cm in total dimension cannot be brought onto the bullet train due to train policy.

• Departure time: Morning
  
• Arrival time: Late night
  
• Train: A train
  
• Class: First Class

Meet your guide on the platform as you disembark the train, and enjoy a private tour of Kyoto.

You'll start at Kiyomizu Temple. Kiyomizu Temple is best known for its wooden stage that juts out from its main hall, 13 meters above the hillside. The stage affords nice views of the numerous cherry and maple trees below that erupt in a sea of color in spring and fall, as well as of the city of Kyoto in the distance. The main hall, which together with the stage was built without the use of nails, houses the temple's primary object of worship, a small statue of the eleven faced, thousand armed Kannon.

Your guide will recommend a local restaurant for lunch. Then, you'll walk through Gion, known as geisha quarter. There are many historical townhouses renovated into cafe and souvenir shops.

After your tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel at around 5pm.

• Meeting time: Around midday
  
• Meeting point: Train platform (your guide will know which car you will be exiting)
  
• Guide: will be provided
  
• Duration: 5 hours
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided | will be provided
  
• Contact: If you can't reach your contact above, please call will be provided | will be provided

Booked by scenset.

Situated in Kyoto's historic Higashiyama district is Kiyomizu Temple. For over 1200 years people have flocked here seeking comfort and guidance, offering up prayers in its splendid halls.

Sannenzaka is a pedestrianized area of Kyoto providing a welcome escape from the modernity of the rest of the city. The area is home to many restaurants and teahouses and has a real old fashioned atmosphere. It's a great place to relax and simply watch the world go by.

Gion is a historic district located in the heart of Kyoto, Japan. The area is famous for its well-preserved traditional architecture and for being the center of Kyoto's geisha culture.

Stroll through the narrow streets lined with tea houses, shops, and restaurants, and catch a glimpse of the geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) as they move between their appointments. The district is also home to several historic temples and shrines, including the Yasaka Shrine, which is one of the most famous in Kyoto.

Enjoy dinner at Yakitori Kushikura Honten, A beloved yakitori restaurant in Tokyo, known for its expertly grilled skewers of succulent chicken and vegetables. This cozy, traditional establishment offers a authentic dining experience, where guests can savor the smoky flavors and intimate atmosphere while watching skilled chefs craft each skewer with precision and care.

• Reservation Time: Evening
  
• Reservation Name: will be provided x 4. Confirmation No. will be provided
  
• Restaurant Number: +81 (0)75-213-2211
  
• Note: Hitsumabushi Course. 6 mins walk from Ace Hotel
  
• Cancellation policy: 100% 2 Day Prior

Booked by Scenset, paid locally.

• Ace Suite King x 2
  
• Breakfast included
  
• 9146SE302934 / 9146SE302935

Booked by a scenset representative

Today you will have a private vehicle, driver & guide at your disposal as you explore Tokyo. You'll start at Kinkakuji, Golden Pavilion which is registered as the UNESCO World Heritage site. The shogun established this temple covered with gold leaf in order to show his prosperity and wealth. Then, move to Arashiyama district in Kyoto's mountain side. Experience a 30 minute rickshaw ride through Bamboo grove.

Your guide will recommend a local restaurant for lunch. After lunch, you'll visit Tenryuji, one of the important Zen temples in Japan. Then, experience a private tea ceremony at a local temple. A tea master will show you how to serve tea, using special utensils. Matcha tea and sweets will be served in the ceremony. If time still allows, you will visit Pontocho, small bar alley.

After your tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel at around 5pm.

• Meeting time: 9am
  
• Meeting point: Hotel lobby
  
• Guide: will be provided
  
• Duration: 8 hours
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided | will be provided
  
• Contact: If you can't reach your contact above, please call will be provided | will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

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.

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 roughly 30-minute rickshaw ride through the Bamboo grove.

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 (where multiple cherry trees can be found). As you exit the temple, you'll come to the famous bamboo forest.

Head back to Kyoto and experience a private tea ceremony at a local temple. A tea master will show you how to serve tea, using special utensils. Sweets will be served to accompany your tea.

• Ace Suite King x 2
  
• Breakfast included
  
• 9146SE302934 / 9146SE302935

Booked by Scenset

Today you will have a private vehicle, driver & guide at your disposal as you explore Tokyo. You'll start at Nijo Castle which boasts a massive architecture decorated with carvings, wall paintings etc. Then, visit Nishiki market which is called as "Kyoto's kitchen" loved by professionals and locals. Your guide is happy to show you unique Kyoto ingredients such as vegetables, tofu, sweets, tea, pickles, etc. After that, private visit to a machiya townhouse, typical wooden architecture which is registered as the city's cultural property. Take a glimpse of local lifestyle and the owner is happy to show you their living area, a beautiful small tsuboniwa garden, kitchen, etc. Enjoy Obanzai lunch which is Kyoto-style home cooking using seasonal ingredients. Then, you will be escorted to 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".

After your tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel in the late afternoon.

• Meeting time: Morning
  
• Meeting point: Hotel lobby
  
• Guide: will be provided
  
• Duration: 8 hours
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided.
  
• Contact: If you can't reach your contact above, please call will be provided.

Booked by Scenset.

Explore the grandeur of Nijo Castle, a colossal architectural masterpiece adorned with intricate carvings and captivating wall paintings. Following this historical marvel, immerse yourself in the culinary wonders of Nishiki Market, often referred to as "Kyoto's kitchen," adored by both connoisseurs and locals alike. Your knowledgeable guide will be delighted to introduce you to the unique Kyoto ingredients, ranging from fresh vegetables and artisanal tofu to delectable sweets, traditional tea, and flavorful pickles. To add to the experience, you can also make a stop at one of the city's most renowned knife shops, "Aritsugu".

After that, a private visit to a machiya townhouse, typical wooden architecture 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.

Visit 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".

• Ace Suite King x 2
  
• Breakfast included
  
• 9146SE302934 / 9146SE302935

Booked by Scenset

Check out, and meet your driver in the lobby for your private transfer to Osaka.

• Meeting time: Around midday
  
• Meeting point: Hotel lobby
  
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided | will be provided
  
• Contact: If you can't reach your contact above, please call will be provided | will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Check into your accommodation.

If early check in is not available, please feel free to leave your luggage with the front desk while you enjoy a lunch at your leisure.

The rest of the day has been left for you to relax or explore Osaka at your own pace.

• Deluxe King x 2
  
• Breakfast included
  
• Confirmation number will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Today you will have a private vehicle, driver & guide at your disposal as you explore Tokyo. You'll start at Osaka Castle, and you will be escorted to the castle tower overlooking Osaka city. Walk through Shinsaibashi shopping arcade to Dotonbori Canal with massive billboards. Try Osaka-style local snacks such as Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, etc. Your guide will explain about local delicacies. Also you will be escorted to Hozenji Yokocho bar alley.

Your guide will recommend a local restaurant for lunch. After lunch, you'll head to Sakai city (20 mins), the largest production area of Japanese cooking knives. Enjoy a private visit to a Japanese cooking knife artist, who will show you his masterpieces, his working studio and traditional techniques of knife making.

After your tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel in the late afternoon.

• Meeting time: Morning
  
• Meeting point: Hotel lobby
  
• Guide: will be provided
  
• Duration: 8 hours
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided | will be provided
  
• Contact: If you can't reach your contact above, please call will be provided | will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Osaka Castle is a historic landmark and one of the most famous attractions in Osaka, Japan. The castle dates back to the 16th century and was built by a renowned samurai warrior and statesman. The castle played a significant role in Japan's history, serving as a military stronghold and a symbol of power and prestige for the ruling elite.

Stroll through the Shinsaibashi shopping arcade to Dotonbori Canal, famous for huge billboards & neon lights. Try local snacks such as Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki. Your guide will explain about local delicacies. If you're thirsty, stroll through Hozenji Yokocho bar alley!

Next, you'll make your way to Sakai, a brief 20-minute journey. Sakai is renowned for its distinction as the largest producer of traditional Japanese culinary knives. You'll have the exclusive opportunity for a private visit to a revered cooking knife studio, where you'll meet a skilled artisan. He will be delighted to provide you with an insider's view of his studio and walk you through the intricate production process.

Start Time: afternoon

Enjoy dinner at Kura, an elegant teppanyaki restaurant offering a refined dining experience with breathtaking city views. Guests can watch as skilled chefs expertly prepare premium ingredients on a sizzling iron griddle, creating a mesmerizing culinary performance that delights both the eyes and the palate.

• Reservation Time: Evening
  
• Reservation Name: will be provided
  
• Note: Dinner will be provided, cancellation policy: will be provided

Booked by Scenset, paid locally.

• Deluxe King x 2
  
• Breakfast included
  
• Confirmation number will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Meet your English speaking driver in the lobby of your hotel and transfer to KIX Osaka Airport. You'll fly out from Osaka airport (Booked Independently).

• Meeting time: Afternoon
  
• Meeting point: Hotel lobby
  
• Duration: 1 hour
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided | will be provided
  
• Contact: If you can't reach your contact above, please call will be provided | will be provided

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.