Japan is a destination like no other, where a vision of the future intermingles with traditions of the past. It's not uncommon to interact with a robot in a hotel lobby, before crossing the street and entering a 1,000 year old temple. Whilst Tokyo & Kyoto will be the bedrock of any itinerary, we also recommend spending a couple of nights at a hot spring resort, where you can relax and experience the Japanese countryside.
Japan is a destination like no other, where a vision of the future intermingles with traditions of the past. It's not uncommon to interact with a robot in a hotel lobby, before crossing the street and entering a 1,000 year old temple. While Tokyo & Kyoto will be the bedrock of any itinerary, we also recommend spending a couple of nights off the beaten path, where you can relax and experience the Japanese countryside.
August 23rd - 27th | Tokyo | 4 nights
August 27th - 29th | Kaga Onsen | 2 nights
August 29th - September 2nd | Kyoto | 4 nights
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):
Scenset
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.
US Passport holders do not need a visa to visit Japan for tourism, as long as their stay does not exceed 90 days.
These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.
In August, Japan experiences warm and sunny weather, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to low 30s Celsius (77-90°F), perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The Summer season in Japan is also marked by vibrant festivals, fireworks displays, and cultural events, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the country's rich traditions. With its stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and friendly people, Japan in August provides an ideal setting for an unforgettable summer vacation.
Visitors to Japan now have the option to complete a Visit Japan Web before their arrival. By providing all of the requested information before arrival, it should expedite procedures through immigration & customs when you land in Tokyo.
Note that this is not compulsory, and the relevant forms will be available when you land, but it will likely allow for a smoother arrival.
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 destination 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.
Please note, you will need to take an overnight bag with you for your stay in Kaga Onsen.
We have put together this Destination Guide for you, full of unique insights and ways to get excited before you travel, such as:
Plus more!
Japan is a wonderfully unique country, and the best way to appreciate Japanese culture and customs is by understanding Japan's Pop Culture, History, and Socio-Political driving factors with Scenset's Insider guide:
Enjoy!
Today, fly from New York to Tokyo!
Welcome to Tokyo! Today, your adventure begins.
Meet your driver in the arrivals area of the airport, after clearing customs. Upon meeting your driver, you will be transferred to your accommodation.
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.
Check in to your hotel and settle into your accommodations for the remainder of the day and evening.
Take time to recuperate from your journey with a rejuvenating massage at the hotel spa. Recommendation only, no booking has been made.
The rest of the afternoon has been left for you to relax and explore at your own pace.
The Capitol Hotel Tokyu is directly connected to Tokyo Metro Tameike Sanno station (Namboku line).
Why we love it for you: The Capitol Hotel Tokyu offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the Tokyo cityscape, providing guests with a comfortable and memorable stay in the heart of the city. Located in the Akasaka district, The Capitol Hotel Tokyu is conveniently situated near popular attractions, shopping areas, and public transportation, making it an ideal base for exploring Tokyo. Moreover, the hotel features exceptional dining options, including Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as impressive facilities such as a fitness center, spa, and indoor pool, ensuring guests have access to everything they need for a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
Booked by someone.
A few of our favorite eateries in Tokyo are:
We understand your little ones can be picky eaters, so we have compiled some of our favourite restaurants that kids will love:
Today you will enjoy a full-day guided tour of this fascinating city with a local guide by private mini bus.
Begin with a visit to a traditional sumo stable for a unique cultural experience. Explore Tokyo's oldest residential district, Yanaka, where you'll get a glimpse of local life. Stroll through shopping streets filled with craft shops, gourmet stores, and cozy cafés. Discover Asakusa, home to the historic Sensoji Temple. Walk through the Kaminarimon Gate and Nakamise arcade, both lined with craft and souvenir shops. Sample local street foods such as face-shaped buns filled with sweet azuki beans, rice crackers, and mochi.
Midday Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.
Visit Tsukiji Fish Market to explore its seafood offerings, kitchen utensils, and a variety of Japanese ingredients.
If time allows, visit Akihabara for its anime figures, cosplay clothing, games, gadgets, and electronics, followed by a stop in Ginza, Tokyo's most upscale shopping district.
The tour concludes in the evening with a return to your hotel.
Booked by Scenset.
Today you will enjoy lunch at Gonpachi Asakusa (Japanese Soba Noodles).
Menu:
Booked by a scenset - to be paid locally.
Once you've finished exploring, freshen up and head to dinner.
Tonight, enjoy dinner at Sushi Shiori an Yamashiro!
📞 Contact: If you have any issues, please contact hotel concierge on +81 03-3503-0109.
Reserved by Scenset - paid locally.
The rest of the evening has been left for you to relax and explore at your own pace.
Booked by a user.
This morning meet your English-speaking guide for today's discovery of Tokyo.
Starting with a scenic drive through the Imperial Palace Plaza, offering views of the historic Double Bridges and surrounding moat. The tour begins at the revered Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji, followed by a stroll through the vibrant Harajuku district, where you'll have time to explore its unique culture.
In the late morning, enjoy a visit to the Hedgehog Café in Harajuku, before having lunch at a local restaurant.
Afterward, walk through Omotesando, a fashionable street known for its boutiques, gourmet shops, and cutting-edge architecture.
The tour concludes with a visit to Shibuya, famous for its bustling pedestrian crossings, and, if time permits, a stop in the lively Roppongi area.
Booked by Scenset.
Today you will enjoy lunch at Omotesando KINTAN(Japanese Shabu Shabu)
Menu:
-Beef tongue
-Japanese black beef brisket
-Japanese black beef shoulder loin
-Iwanaka pork belly
-Iwanaka pork shoulder loin
Vegetables
-Today's vegetable platter (free refills)
Meals
-Rice or 16-grain rice (free refills)
Booked by someone - to be paid locally.
After you've finished exploring, head for dinner.
Tonight, enjoy dinner at Tempura Tenmasa!
📞 Contact: If you have any issues, please contact hotel concierge on +81 03-3503-0109.
Reserved by Scenset - paid locally.
The rest of the evening has been left for you to relax and explore at your own pace.
Booked by a user.
Begin your day by meeting your English-speaking guide in the hotel lobby before embarking on a tour to the Mt. Fuji area. The journey takes about two and a half hours along a scenic highway, leading to the Mt. Fuji Fifth Station, located at an elevation of 2,305 meters, where you can enjoy a close view of the summit. If you'd like, your guide will accompany you on a short hike around the Fifth Station.
Following this, you'll head to the base of the mountain for lunch at a Fujiyama Teracce at Highland Resort. The tour continues with a visit to a kimono museum established by a renowned contemporary kimono designer with a strong reputation in Europe, known for their Mt. Fuji-themed designs.
Next, you'll explore Oshino Hakkai, a collection of eight mysterious ponds fed by the underground waters of Mt. Fuji. Here, you can visit a preserved area with traditional thatch-roofed houses and take in the idyllic scenery with Mt. Fuji as the backdrop.
The tour concludes with your return to Tokyo, arriving back at your hotel in the early evening.
Booked by Scenset.
Today you will enjoy a buffet lunch at Fujiyama Teracce at Highland Resort.
Cancellation fee occurs 3 days prior
Menu
Booked by a scenset - to be paid locally.
Head back to Tokyo for your dinner.
Tonight, enjoy dinner at Akasaka Rikyu Akasaka Honten!
📞 Contact: If you have any issues, please contact hotel concierge on +81 03-3503-0109.
Reserved by Scenset - paid locally.
The rest of the evening has been left for you to relax and explore at your own pace.
Booked by a person.
After breakfast and check-out, meet your driver in the hotel lobby for your transfer to Tokyo Station.
Upon arrival at the station, you’ll be guided to an Ekiben (box lunch) shop to purchase a meal before proceeding to the bullet train platform.
You will then be escorted to the first-class section of the bullet train bound for Kanazawa.
Booked by Scenset.
Recommendation for Luggage delivery service(not included):
The luggage larger than 160 cm in total dimension cannot be brought into the bullet train due to the train policy
Please bring an overnight bag with you for your Kaga Onsen's stay.
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.
Arrive at Kanazawa station and meet your English-speaking guide at the train platform.
Booked by Scenset.
After meeting your guide you will start your tour by exploring Omicho Market, where you can experience local life and browse approximately 170 specialty food shops and restaurants, featuring Kanazawa's renowned seafood from the cold Japan Sea and fresh Kaga Yasai vegetables.
Next, stroll along Nagamachi Bukeyashiki Street, famous for its former samurai residences. You will visit one of these historic residences, complete with a charming small garden.
Continue to Kenrokuen Garden, celebrated as one of Japan's top three gardens. This strolling garden boasts picturesque ponds, traditional architecture, meticulously trimmed pine trees, and elegant stone lanterns.
The tour concludes with your arrival at the hotel in Kaga Onsen in the late afternoon.
Booked by Scenset.
Why we love it for you: 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.
Beniya Mukayu stands on a hill of the sacred Yakushiyama, Healing Buddha’s Mountain, where in the old days Buddhist monks used to cure people with hot spring baths and medicinal herbs. Get pampered at their Spa Entei with thermal baths and their Yakushiyama signature treatments and amenities, designed for the mental and physical health of guests as an homage to their unique history.
Booked by a person.
Today you'll head to Kyoto!
Meet your English-speaking escort staff in the hotel lobby for your transfer to the Kaga Onsen station.
Booked by Scenset.
Arrive at the train station and board your train to Tsuruga.
Booked by a travel agency.
Recommendation for Luggage delivery service(not included):
The luggage larger than 160 cm in total dimension cannot be brought into the bullet train due to the train policy
Please bring an overnight bag with you for your Kaga Onsen's stay.
For direct trains between Kaga Onsen and Kyoto/Osaka, due to the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen (bullet train in the Kanazawa area) and the revision of the timetable, the government recently announced that no direct trains will be operated after March 16, and every passenger will have to transfer from a bullet train to an express train at Tsuruga station.
Arrive at Tsuruga station, and meet your English-speaking guide at the platform. You will be escorted to an express train platform. (a bullet train platform 3rd floor to an express train platform 1st floor)
Booked by scenset.
Arrive at Kyoto station; a guide will take you to lunch at a local restaurant before your tour begins.
Today you will enjoy lunch at Kokekokko (Japanese Yakitori).
Booked by a scenset - to be paid locally.
Kyoto is the nation’s former capital and was the emperor's residence 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.
After lunch, your private guide will lead you on an engaging tour of Kyoto.
Begin with a visit to Toji Temple (East Temple), established at the onset of the Heian Period, shortly after Kyoto became the capital in the late 700s. This grand temple, along with its now-closed counterpart, Saiji Temple (West Temple), once stood at the southern gateway to the city, serving as a guardian of the capital.
Next, explore Sanjusangendo, renowned for housing the longest wooden hall in the world. Inside, you’ll find over a thousand Buddha statues, with a local legend claiming that one of them bears a resemblance to you.
Finally, you'll be escorted to Nijo Castle, known for its impressive architecture adorned with intricate carvings and wall paintings.
Booked by Scenset.
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:
These are recommendations only.
A few restaurants for the little ones we love are:
Freshen up after exploring and head for dinner.
Tonight, enjoy dinner at Teppanyaki Mikaku!
📞 Contact: If you have any issues, please contact hotel concierge on +81 75-468-3100.
Reserved by Scenset - paid locally.
The rest of the evening has been left for you to relax.
Why we love it for you: The Mitsui Kyoto, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is an exceptional choice for those seeking a refined and authentic experience in the historic city of Kyoto. Situated in the heart of the city, the hotel is within walking distance of numerous iconic temples, shrines, and cultural attractions, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Japan's ancient capital. The Mitsui Kyoto seamlessly blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern luxury, offering elegantly appointed rooms and suites that feature tasteful decor, luxurious amenities, and tranquil views of the hotel's beautifully landscaped gardens.
Booked by Scenset.
Enjoy a final day of family exploration in Kyoto!
Meet your English-speaking guide in the hotel lobby to begin your tour.
Start your exploration in the Arashiyama district on Kyoto's picturesque mountainside.
Enjoy a short rickshaw ride through the enchanting Bamboo Grove and visit Tenryuji, one of Japan's significant Zen temples. Afterward, return to Kyoto city center for lunch at Tenryuji Shigetsu (Japanese Zen Vegetarian Cuisine).
Following lunch, participate in a private tea ceremony led by a tea master, who will demonstrate the art of serving tea with traditional utensils. You will savor matcha tea and accompanying sweets during this serene experience.
Next, visit Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This striking temple, covered in gold leaf, was built by a shogun to display his prosperity and wealth.
If time permits, explore Tenjinbashisuji or stroll through Gion, the historic geisha district, where you'll find charming townhouses transformed into cafes and souvenir shops.
The tour concludes at your hotel in the late afternoon.
Booked by Scenset.
Today you will enjoy lunch at Rigoletto Smoke Grill for the lunch set.
Booked by a scenset - to be paid locally.
Freshen up and head to dinner.
Tonight, enjoy dinner at Sukiyaki Moriyata!
📞 Contact: If you have any issues, please contact hotel concierge on +81 75-468-3100.
Reserved by Scenset - paid locally.
The rest of the evening has been left for you to relax.
Booked by Scenset.
This morning you will meet your English-speaking guide in the hotel lobby.
The tour begins with Kyoto Imperial Palace. Once the residence of Japan's Imperial Family until 1868, the palace is located within the expansive Kyoto Imperial Park. This attractive park in the city's center also encompasses the Sento Imperial Palace, which served retired emperors, along with other notable attractions.
Situated at the base of Kyoto's forested Higashiyama mountains, Nanzenji Temple is one of Japan's most important Zen temples. It is the head temple of a school within the Rinzai sect of Japanese Zen Buddhism. The complex is large, with multiple sub-temples adding to its grandeur.
Lunch at Omen Ginkakuji (Japanese Udon Noodle)
After lunch, you will visit Ginkakuji, also known as the Silver Pavilion. This site features a traditional karesansui garden, where stones and sand represent the ocean without using actual water. You’ll also enjoy a walk along the Philosopher's Path, a scenic stone pathway through the northern part of Kyoto's Higashiyama district.
If time permits, visit Pontocho, a charming narrow alley known for its small bars.
The tour ends at your hotel in the late afternoon.
Booked by Scenset.
Today you will enjoy lunch at Omen Ginkakuji (Japanese Udon Noodle)
Cancellation fee occurs 3 days prior
Time: Afternoon
Menu
Booked by scenset - to be paid locally.
Shipping luggage for your return home:
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 your hotel in Kyoto in the morning, you will receive it at HND airport on your departure date. The fee will be provided. Your guide & hotel staff will be happy to consult on this matter.
Please bring your baggage at the bell captain desk in the morning so that it can arrive in Tokyo by the next day.
The luggage larger than 160 cm in total dimension cannot be brought into the bullet train due to the train policy.
Recommendation only.
Freshen up and head for dinner.
We are finalizing your meal for tonight, it will be at either Italian Uruu or Ristorante Noro.
The rest of the evening has been left for you to relax.
Booked by Scenset.
This morning, meet your English-speaking guide in the hotel lobby and embark on today's tour.
Begin your journey at the historic Osaka Castle, a magnificent 16th-century landmark. Explore its expansive grounds and learn about its pivotal role in Japanese history.
Stroll through the lively Shinsaibashi shopping arcade, leading to the iconic Dotonbori Canal, renowned for its towering billboards and vibrant neon lights. Delight in local Osaka delicacies like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
Discover the charming Hozenji Yokocho, a quaint, narrow alleyway lined with traditional bars and eateries, offering a glimpse into Osaka’s rich culture.
Head to Osaka's Kita district to visit the architecturally stunning Umeda Sky Building. Ascend to the Floating Garden Observatory on the 39th floor for panoramic views of Greater Osaka.
If time permits, explore Tenjinbashisuji, Japan's longest shopping arcade stretching over 2.6 kilometers, home to over 600 shops offering everything from food and fashion to bars and supermarkets.
Return to your hotel in the late afternoon.
Booked by Scenset.
Today you will enjoy lunch at President Chibo Daimaru Shinsaibashi (Japanese Okonomiyaki)
Cancellation fee occurs 3 days prior
Time: Lunchtime
Menu
Booked by scenset - to be paid locally.
Return to Kyoto and get ready for dinner.
Tonight, enjoy dinner at Kyo-Machiya PAUSE!
📞 Contact: If you have any issues, please contact hotel concierge on +81 75-468-3100.
Reserved by Scenset - paid locally.
The rest of the evening has been left for you to relax.
Booked by Scenset.
Enjoy a final day of family self exploration in Kyoto!
Booked by Scenset.
Meet your English-speaking escort staff in the hotel lobby for your private transfer to Kyoto station.
Booked by Scenset.
Arrive at Kyoto station and you will be escorted to an Ekiben (box lunch) shop before heading to the bullet train platform.
Arrive at Tokyo station and meet your English-speaking escort staff at the platform.
You will be transferred to the Narita and Haneda airports according to your flights.
Booked by Scenset.
Please refer to our terms & conditions here.