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. While 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.
May 13th - 16th | Tokyo
May 17th - 19th | Osaka
May 20th - 22nd | Naoshima & Teshima
May 23rd - 26th | Kyoto
Golden Week, a peak travel period in Japan, spans from late April to early May. Nonetheless, the rest of May stands out as an excellent time to visit Japan.
During this period, the landscape is adorned with lush greenery, the weather remains pleasantly mild, and popular tourist attractions are often less crowded.
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!
Upon arrival in Tokyo, an English-speaking assistant will greet you at the arrivals hall and escort you to your private transfer.
Note that from Narita airport it's about a 90 minute drive to the city center, and from Haneda it's about 30 minutes.
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 into your hotel and settle into your accommodations for the remainder of the day and evening.
The rest of the day has been left for you to relax and explore at your own pace.
We will provide you with a list of our favourite places to eat in Tokyo closer to your departure date.
We are able to make any reservations you'd like, so don't hesitate to let us know if you'd like any restaurant reservations made on your behalf.
Reservations only, paid locally.
Why we love it for you? Located in central Tokyo, The Kitano Hotel offers contemporary luxury in Chiyoda City, the political heart of the city. Explore nearby attractions like the Imperial Palace Gardens with its cherry blossom trees. The hotel boasts elegant modern interiors, well-lit rooms with cherry wood furniture, and a wellness center combining Eastern and Western traditions. Relax on the rooftop with city views or dine at the traditional Sushi Ohmi restaurant.
Today is all about exploring Tokyo!
Take a full-day tour of this fascinating city with a local guide.
Booked by scenset.
Touring today will be done in a private car.
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.
Included in your tour.
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.
Included in your tour.
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 has its 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.
Included in your tour.
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.
Included in your tour.
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.
Included in your tour.
The rest of the afternoon/evening has been left for you to relax.
Today is all about continuing your discovery of Tokyo!
Take a half-day tour of this wonderful city with a local guide.
Touring this morning will be done in a private car.
Booked by scenset.
For the discerning traveler seeking an immersive and exclusive cultural experience, a visit to a Japanese fish market is a must. Witness the spectacle of the auction process and observe the skilled fishmongers at work. The outer market of Tsukiji is a great place to not only see seafood but also kitchen utensils and other Japanese ingredients.
Enjoy a private sushi class at a local restaurant. A master chef will show you how to slice sashimi and make nigiri. With detailed instruction, you will make your own nigiri for your lunch, using fresh ingredients from the market.
Upon conclusion of your sushi class you will be transferred back to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure.
Today, explore the dominating sight of Mt. Fuji and Hakone!
Touring today will be done in a private car.
Booked by scenset.
Drive through a scenic highway to Mt. Fuji Fifth Station at 2,305 metres high.
The summit of Mt. Fuji can be observed closely. Then, you will be escorted to Oshino Hakkai, the mysterious 8 ponds flowing from the ground of Mt. Fuji.
Visit the preserved area with thatch-roofed houses. Transfer to Hakone (1 hour) and visit Owakudani, an active volcanic vent. Try a black egg boiled in hot spring water; it is believed that one egg can make your life 7 years longer.
Booked by scenset.
Drive down to Lake Ashi and visit the historical Hakone Checkpoint and learn how people traveled through the area with some restrictions in old days.
Booked by scenset.
Upon return to Tokyo, the rest of the afternoon/evening is free for relaxation.
Today, head to Osaka!
After breakfast and check-out, meet your driver in the lobby of your hotel and transfer to Tokyo station where you will be escorted to the bullet train platform to Osaka in 1st class.
Booked by scenset.
Enjoy the thrill of the bullet train as you zip through Japan's countryside en-route to Osaka.
Booked by scenset.
Upon arrival at the station, your driver will transfer you to your hotel.
Booked by scenset.
The historical commercial capital of Japan, Osaka is Japan’s third largest metropolis and it has been the economic powerhouse of the Kansai region for centuries. Osaka first gained prominence when a powerful warlord built the country’s most magnificent castle in the 16th century. To develop resources for his castle town, the ruler persuaded merchants from other parts of the nation to resettle in Osaka and it became an important distribution center.
The rest of the afternoon has been left for you to relax at your own pace.
The St. Regis in central Osaka offers a convenient and elegant choice for accommodation. The spacious, well-furnished rooms feature soothing neutral tones and provide excellent city views. After a day of sightseeing or shopping, you can unwind in the generously-sized, high-end bathrooms. The European-style restaurants on-site offer high-quality dining experiences.
Today, explore Nara!
Touring today will be done in a private car.
Booked by scenset.
Today, explore the significant temples and artwork dating to the 8th century, when it was Japan’s capital.
See the deer roam in Nara Park, the site of the Tōdai-ji temple.
Daibutsu, Tōdai-ji's 15m-high bronze Buddha, is displayed in a large wooden hall.
On the park's east side is the Shinto shrine Kasuga Taisha, which dates to 768 A.D. and more than 3,000 lanterns.
Included in your tour.
Head back to Osaka.
The rest of the afternoon has been left for relaxation.
Today has been left for you to explore at your own pace.
We will provide you with recommendations on things you can do and see in Osaka closer to the date of departure.
Today, leave Osaka and head for Naoshima!
Your driver will meet you and take you to the train station.
Booked by scenset.
Enjoy the scenery from the train as you ride through Japan's countryside en-route to Naoshima.
Booked by scenset.
Your driver will meet you at the station and take you to your hotel for checking in.
Booked by scenset.
The rest of the afternoon has been left for you to relax.
Why we love it for you? Sitting within Japan's Setouchi Inland Sea on Naoshima Island, known for its pioneering art endeavors, Benesse House resembles a gallery more than a traditional hotel. Its minimalist design, abundant natural light, and scattered contemporary artworks create an immersive artistic experience.
Today, explore Naoshima!
Touring this afternoon will be done by private vehicle.
Booked by scenset.
In Naoshima, art has not always reigned supreme.
This small island (3,400 inhabitants on approximately 8km2) located between the cities of Takamatsu and Okayama, has long lived in the refining industry.
At the end of the 1980s, it was deserted and deprived of future prospects. Two men decide to react: the mayor, who wishes to bring his island back to life, and a founder of a company (specializing in education and in correspondence courses), looking for a place where he could set up a children's holiday camp.
Explore this artistic island, bathed in sunshine, with your private guide.
Booked by scenset.
The afternoon has been left for you to relax.
Today, head to Teshima to explore.
Touring this afternoon will be done by private vehicle.
Booked by scenset.
Your guide will take you around the art island of Teshima to show you the cultural, artistic and natural must-see highlights.
Booked by scenset.
Upon returning to Naoshima, the rest of the afternoon is free for relaxation.
Today, head to a beautiful city in Japan.
Your driver will meet you and take you to the train station.
Booked by scenset.
Enjoy the scenery from the train as you ride through Japan's countryside en-route to Kyoto.
Booked by scenset.
Your driver will meet you at the station and take you to your hotel for checking in.
Booked by scenset.
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 rest of the day has been left for you to relax.
Why we love it for you? Tranquil, romantic, and flawlessly crafted, this riverside hotel offers a lavish interpretation of a classic Japanese escape. Nestled amidst secluded forests on the outskirts of Kyoto, it can be reached by a private boat.
Today, explore this historical city.
Touring this afternoon will be done by private vehicle.
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.
Included in tour.
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.
Included in tour.
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.
Included in tour.
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.
Included in tour.
In the evening, enjoy a private tea ceremony.
Enjoy a full-course Kyoto-style kaiseki dinner in a private traditional room. In the evening, a maiko (young geisha) and a lady 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 with them.
Note that alcoholic drinks will be paid for on-site.
Booked by scenset.
Return to your hotel and relax.
Enjoy another full day of touring around this fascinating city.
Touring today will be done by private car.
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.
Included in the tour.
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.
Included in the tour.
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.
Included in the tour.
Founded in 1596, this mountainside temple is filled with small, attractive buildings, gates, and a quiet atmosphere. Its many maple trees and moss are located next to the paths and stairs all around the grounds.
Included in the tour.
While many religious sites have a somber tone, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji is a fun twist on the Japanese temple experience. Here you'll find well over 1,000 small stone statues, called rakan, often depicting humorous and lighthearted disciples of the Buddha.
Included in the tour.
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".
Included in the tour.
Lastly, enjoy a traditional Kaiseki dinner.
Kaiseki is a multi-course dining experience that embraces seasonal ingredients.
Enjoy this Japanese discovery of food for your final night.
Booked by scenset.
The evening has been left for you to relax.
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading to the airport for your flight home.
Your driver will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby to take you to Kyoto airport.
Booked by scenset.
Take your international flight back home.
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.
PLEASE NOTE:
- Pricing is subject to change at the time of booking.
- Pricing above is based on credit card payment. Should you prefer to pay by wire transfer, the total cost will be reduced.
- All hotels are available at the time of quoting, but rooms are NOT currently being held.
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scenset invests in making the world a better place. scenset will offset the fuel used during the trip. On top of that, we will offset an extra 10% to make your trip a carbon-positive experience.
Currently, we support Gold Standard Climate+ Projects from the Gold Standard Foundation.