Japan
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. Tokyo is a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends modernity with traditional culture, offering a vibrant urban experience unlike any other, while Kyoto is a captivating city renowned for its rich history, ancient temples, and serene gardens, providing a glimpse into Japan's cultural heritage.
Tokyo Partner Office - For any assistance you may require, please contact:
Local Guide Contact Information
Miki Yamanaka: +81 90-8512-8194
Yoichi Koreto: +81 90-7728-6339
- +81 3-5464-8669 (office number)
Scenset Office: will be provided
In October, Japan experiences a pleasant transition from the warm summer months to the cool and comfortable autumn season. The weather varies depending on the region, but in general, temperatures start to drop, ranging from around 15 to 23 degrees Celsius.
October is characterized by clear skies and lower humidity, making it an ideal time to explore the country's beautiful landscapes, vibrant autumn foliage, and cultural attractions. It's a popular month for outdoor activities, festivals, and enjoying the picturesque scenery as Japan transforms into a stunning tapestry of red, orange, and yellow hues.
Japan has an excellent overnight baggage forwarding service that you may want to use when you have long travel days. You can arrange this at hotel receptions.
Please show the reception staff the address of the hotel you want to send it to and they can fill in the forms for you. If you do this in the morning, the bags will be delivered to your next hotel the following day.
You will need to take an overnight bag with you for your one night stay.
Clothing:
- Light jackets or sweaters for cool evenings
- T-shirts or light shirts for warmer days
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
- Socks and underwear
Travel essentials:
- Passport
- Travel itinerary, tickets, and reservations
- Portable charger for electronic devices
- Universal power adapter
- Camera and/or smartphone with extra memory card
- Cash and credit cards
- Travel insurance documents
- Umbrella
Miscellaneous:
- Small daypack or backpack for daily excursions
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Sunglasses
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!
Your flight is scheduled to arrive in the late afternoon at Tokyo Narita Airport on October 5th.
You will be welcomed at the door side of your flight upon arrival, and escorted to priority lane in immigration. Then you will have private transfer to your hotel. (Approximately 1.5 hours)
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.
Why we love it for you: The Four Seasons Tokyo offers a luxurious and unforgettable experience in the heart of the vibrant city. With its prime location in the prestigious Marunouchi district, guests have easy access to Tokyo's top attractions, shopping, and dining. The hotel's impeccable service, opulent accommodations, and stunning views of Tokyo's iconic landmarks create a perfect sanctuary for travelers seeking a blend of sophistication, comfort, and convenience during their stay in Japan's capital city.
Four Seasons Otemachi Tokyo
Superior Room City View x 3
- Breakfast included
- Confirmation number will be provided (interconnecting rooms is subject to availability)
Booked by scenset
Enjoy a tour at your pace of this fascinating city with a local guide.
Take a half-day tour of this fascinating city with a local guide by private car
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Meeting Time: Late Morning
Guide: A local guide
Booked by scenset
Touring today will be done in a private car.
Booked by scenset
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.
Booked by scenset.
Harajuku’s Takeshita Street - This narrow, crowded street is lined with shops that sell the latest fashion trend, 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.
Booked by scenset
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.
Booked by scenset.
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 scenset.
Nataraj Harajuku
Enjoy one of the first restaurants in Japan that focuses on organic additive free vegetables!
Time: Afternoon
Cancellation: Must be cancelled at least 3 days in advance to avoid a charge.
Reserved by scenset, paid locally on own
After lunch, enjoy Tsukimi Afternoon Tea at Park Hyatt - a charming Japanese tradition where people gather to celebrate the full moon while savoring delightful sweets and tea. This unique and serene experience allows participants to appreciate the beauty of the moon's glow while enjoying delicious treats in a relaxed setting.
It includes three kinds of finger sandwiches, two kinds of scones and three kinds of desserts with unlimited tea/ coffee for a few hours.
It also includes the plate for petit sweets and canapés. (This can be enjoyed for a few hours.)
Beverages: Coffee or tea refills are available throughout the time period, as long as they are on the menu.
As we do not have a children's menu, sharing the afternoon tea or ordering from the a la carte menu is suggested.
Start time: In the afternoon.
Booked by scenset.
Enjoy a day of teamLab adventure with the family!
Touring today will be done in a private car, which will be available for you during the entire day along with an english speaking escort. Please confirm the meeting point with your in-destination guide for hotel departure. A guide will assist you while at Teamlabs as well.
You'll start with a stop at Akihabara to view anime figures, games, electronics, and more, and then transfer to Odaiba waterfront and visit TeamLab.
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Guide will be provided
Time: Morning - Afternoon (tickets already purchased, cannot accommodate earlier time)
Booked by scenset
teamLab Borderless in Tokyo is a revolutionary digital art museum known for its captivating and immersive installations. It's an ideal destination for families and kids because it offers a truly interactive and multi-sensory experience.
Children can explore a variety of stunning digital artworks that respond to their movements, touch, and presence, allowing them to become part of the art itself.
Whether it's walking through a digital waterfall, playing with responsive animals, or creating their own digital masterpieces, teamLab Borderless provides a dynamic and engaging environment that both kids and adults will find fascinating and entertaining.
It's an educational and visually stimulating adventure that sparks creativity and imagination in young minds.
The Penthouse with Weekend Terrace
It is an Italian restaurant which uses Toyosu Market's special vegetables, and you can enjoy a nice view of Tokyo Bay area during lunch.
Time: Lunchtime
Cancellation: Must be cancelled at least 3 days in advance to avoid a charge.
Reserved by scenset, paid locally on own
Enjoy exploring one of Disney's amazing parks with the family!
Touring today will be done in a private car, which will be available for the entire day along with an english speaking escort. Please confirm the meeting point with the in destination guide for hotel departure, and pick up from the park.
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Time: Morning - Afternoon
Departure: Must depart by 3:00pm to make the Tokyo Tower dinner reservation (confirm meeting time/location with the guide)
Booked by scenset
Tokyo DisneySea is a spectacular and one-of-a-kind theme park located in Urayasu, Japan. It is part of the Tokyo Disney Resort and is owned and operated by The Oriental Land Company in partnership with The Walt Disney Company.
Unlike traditional Disney theme parks, DisneySea boasts a unique nautical and adventure-inspired theme, taking visitors on a journey through various ports of call and mythical lands. The park is divided into seven themed areas, each with its distinct charm and attractions.
Throughout the park, you'll find captivating shows, parades, and delightful dining experiences, making Tokyo DisneySea a true feast for the senses and an unforgettable adventure for visitors of all ages.
With its attention to detail, storytelling, and a touch of Japanese creativity, DisneySea promises an unparalleled and magical experience, ensuring that guests are transported to a world of wonder and imagination from the moment they step foot inside.
Tickets Booked Independently
Tokyo Skytree offers a breathtaking experience with its panoramic views of Tokyo's skyline, providing visitors with an unmatched perspective of the city. Paired with a dinner reservation, it becomes an unforgettable evening as you dine amidst the glittering cityscape, savoring delicious cuisine while taking in the mesmerizing vistas from one of the world's tallest towers.
Departure Time: early evening (via driver compliments of scenset, please meet in the lobby)
Sky tree elevator reservation: early evening (enjoy night view)
Dinner Reservation: early evening (counter seats with a view of window)
Dress code: smart casual
Return: via taxi on your own
Reserved by scenset, paid locally on own
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.
After breakfast and check-out, meet your driver in the lobby of your hotel and transfer to Tokyo Station to take the bullet train.
Meeting time: Morning (time sensitive)
Meeting Location: Hotel Lobby
Booked by scenset
Take a bullet train to Kyoto (1st class). Depart from Tokyo in the late morning and arrive in Kyoto around midday. Arrive at Kyoto station and meet your guide on the platform. A child seat will be provided.
Booked by scenset
As there is no designated space for large suitcases on the bullet train, we would like to recommend a luggage delivery service. If you drop off your luggage at your hotel in Tokyo, you will receive it at your hotel in Kyoto the next day. This is a very reliable service in Japan. Your guide & hotel staff will be happy to consult on this matter.
** The luggage larger than 160 cm in total dimension cannot be brought into the bullet train due to the train policy **
"29.2 in × 20.5 in × 12 in" can be brought into the train, the "+ 2” Exp" may not be. We suggest taking only one piece of baggage to Kyoto and leaving the rest at your Tokyo hotel and picking it up on October 14th on the way to the airport.
If you drop off your luggage at your hotel in Tokyo in the morning, you'll receive it at your hotel in Kyoto the following day. Your guide and hotel staff will be happy to help you with this process.
Your guide will take you to a local restaurant for lunch, and then transfer you to your hotel in Kyoto.
Booked by scenset
Mumokuteki Cafe
Just like us, vegetables and rice have a scenset, and there are creators who work with the region and nature that nurtured them. Mumokuteki's goal is to be good for the body and the environment, and they believe that through food, we have an important role in conveying the smell of the soil, the feelings of the creators, and the connections between people to the future
Time: Afternoon
Cancellation: Must be cancelled at least 3 days in advance to avoid a charge.
Reserved by someone, paid locally on own
Why we love it for you: The Four Seasons Kyoto is a luxurious retreat that seamlessly fuses modern elegance with traditional Japanese design. Located in the heart of Kyoto's historic Higashiyama district, the hotel provides easy access to iconic temples, shrines, and serene gardens, immersing guests in the city's rich cultural heritage. With its serene ambiance, exquisite dining options, and world-class amenities, the Four Seasons Kyoto offers an enchanting escape, allowing guests to indulge in the timeless beauty and tranquility of Japan's ancient capital.
Four Seasons Kyoto
Deluxe Room x 3
- Breakfast included
- Confirmation numbers will be provided
Booked by scenset
Rich in culture and beauty, enjoy a half day tour in Kyoto today!
Take a half-day tour of this fascinating city with a local guide by private car.
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Meeting Time: Late morning
Guide: will be provided
Booked by scenset
Touring today will be done by private car.
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.
Booked by scenset
Nishiki Market, also known as Kyoto's Kitchen, is a historic open-air food market located in the heart of Kyoto, Japan. The market dates back to the 14th century and is famous for its wide variety of traditional Japanese foods, ingredients, and local specialties.
Stroll through the narrow alleyways and browse the many stalls selling fresh seafood, pickles, tea, sweets, and other delicious treats. The market is also home to several restaurants and food stands where visitors can sample local dishes and watch as the chefs prepare their meals. Your guide is happy to show you unique Kyoto ingredients such as vegetables, tofu, sweets, tea, and pickles etc.
Booked by scenset
Nijo Castle is a historic castle located in the heart of Kyoto, Japan. The castle was built in 1603 and served as the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns during their visits to Kyoto. Today, Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination.
Explore the castle's many buildings and structures, including the Ninomaru Palace, which features beautiful painted screens and intricate carvings. The castle is surrounded by expansive gardens that are perfect for strolling and taking in the natural beauty of the area.
Booked by scenset
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.
Booked by scenset
Ashoka
Enjoy a wide range of delicious dishes here!
Time: Afternoon
Cancellation: Must be cancelled at least 3 days in advance to avoid a charge.
Reserved by a person, paid locally on own
Return to your hotel in the afternoon to rest and relax and prepare for dinner later in the evening.
Enjoy a full-course Kyoto-style kaiseki dinner (no seafood) in a private traditional room. In the evening, a young geisha and a musician (possibly a geisha who plays the shamisen, subject to availability) will perform an authentic dance with live shamisen music. They will also play some traditional games. Feel free to take photos. Your guide will assist with communication. Complimentary drinks will be provided.
Location: Hotel Lobby
Time: Late afternoon
Guide: Ms. Yumiko Sakurai
Transfer: Via Taxi
Booked by scenset
Today, enjoy a fun family trip to Nara park!
Take a half-day tour of this fascinating city with a local guide by private car.
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Meeting Time: Morning
Guide: A local guide
Drive time: Approximately 50 minutes
Booked by scenset
Before your first stop, you'll stop at Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine which boasts thousands of red torii gates, an absolutely stunning marvel. Then, in the ancient capital of Nara will be Todai-ji Temple, where the Great Buddha is housed in the largest wooden structure in the world.
Booked by scenset
Nara Park is 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!
Booked by scenset
Naramachi is the old merchant district of the city. There are many traditional residential buildings and warehouses that have been preserved and are open to the public. A wide variety of boutiques, shops, cafes, restaurants and museums scattered throughout the district's narrow streets. It gives a wonderful feeling of old Japan. The area is also known for the World Heritage Site of Gangoji Temple. There is a small sake brewery where visitors can sample the goods and a small traditional toy museum that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Booked by scenset
Indulge in a culinary journey at Silk Road Restaurant, nestled within the JW Marriott in Nara. This dining experience offers an exquisite fusion of flavors, blending the rich heritage of the Silk Road with locally sourced ingredients to create a memorable and culturally inspired lunch.
Time: Afternoon
Cancellation: Must be cancelled at least 3 days in advance to avoid a charge.
Booked by scenset
Experience the rich traditions of the samurai in Kyoto with a Samurai Kenbu session, where you'll learn the art of traditional Japanese swordsmanship and perform intricate samurai dance movements while dressed in authentic samurai attire. This immersive experience offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past and the disciplined world of the samurai warriors.
Time: The afternoon, approximately one hour.
Guide: A guide will be provided.
Transportation: Transportation will be arranged.
Duration: Approximately one hour
Booked by scenset
To ensure your luggage arrives promptly in time for your flight, please have your big luggage that won't fit on the train prepared to be shipped today please. Your guide and hotel concierge will assist you with this.
Recommendation for Luggage delivery service 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 your hotel in Tokyo the next day. The fee will be provided per piece, your guide and hotel staff will be happy to help you with this matter!
With so much to see, have no regrets with your final day of exploration in Kyoto.
Take a half-day tour of Kyoto with a local guide by private car.
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Meeting Time: Late morning
Guide: will be provided
Booked by scenset
Touring today will be done by private car.
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 roughly 30 minute rickshaw ride through the Bamboo grove.
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.
Booked by scenset
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.
Booked by Scenset
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.
Booked by scenset
Omen Ginkakuji
Enjoy a delicious Udon noodle restaurant!
Time: Afternoon
Cancellation: Must be cancelled at least 3 days in advance to avoid a charge.
Reserved by a person, paid locally
Greeting at your hotel and private transfer to the Kyoto Train station for bullet train to Tokyo Narita Airport.
Meeting Time: Late morning
Meeting Location: Hotel Lobby
Booked by scenset
Take the bullet train to Tokyo for your international flight.
Booked by scenset
Meet your guide on the platform for a private transfer to Tokyo airport for your international flight home.
Booked by scenset
Booked Independently
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 your trip a carbon-positive experience.
Currently, we support Gold Standard Climate+ Projects from the Gold Standard Foundation.
Please refer to our terms & conditions here.