Journey Through Japan

Japan is a captivating blend of the old and the new, from the bustling streets of a large city with its skyscrapers and high-tech wonders to the serene beauty of Hakone, famous for its hot springs and views of Mount Fuji. A city, the heart of Japan's cultural heritage, offers a journey back in time with its ancient temples and traditional tea houses, while another city brings a lively contrast with its vibrant food scene and neon-lit streets. Together, these destinations offer a glimpse into Japan's rich tapestry of history, culture, and modernity, making it an unforgettable experience for any traveler.

Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital, is a city where the pulse of modern life beats in harmony with the rhythm of its ancient heart. Known for its dazzling neon landscapes and towering skyscrapers, Tokyo also harbors serene parks, historic temples, and shrines that offer a tranquil retreat from the city's fast-paced lifestyle. This city of contrasts is a place where one can witness the future through its cutting-edge technology and fashion trends while still feeling the presence of the past in its well-preserved traditions and cultural heritage. From the iconic Tokyo Tower offering panoramic views of the sprawling cityscape to the vibrant streets of Harajuku, the epicenter of youth fashion and culture, Tokyo promises an endless array of experiences. Whether exploring the culinary delights of a bustling fish market or finding peace within the sacred grounds of the Meiji Shrine, Tokyo is a city that invites curiosity and rewards exploration.

Enjoy a private food tour with a local expert through Golden-gai and Omoide Yokocho.

Starting in Omoide Yokocho, near Shinjuku Station, which was once a black market in the 1940s, now hosts a variety of local restaurants and bars. Dive into Tokyo’s post-WWII culture at popular Izakayas (Japanese gastropubs).

Then, explore Kabukicho, Asia’s safest red-light district, known for its vibrant nightlife.

The tour concludes in Golden Gai, a dense network of alleys with over 200 bars, where your guide will introduce you to hidden gems usually reserved for locals.

The experience ends with a return to your hotel via public transport.

Booked by Scenset.

Why we love it for you: Staying at a hotel in Tokyo offers a unique blend of Japanese hospitality and luxury in the heart of one of the world's most vibrant cities. This prestigious hotel is renowned for its elegant fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern comforts, providing guests with an exquisite retreat amidst the bustling cityscape. From its meticulously designed rooms that offer serene views and top-notch amenities to its exceptional dining experiences that showcase the best of Japanese and international cuisine, the hotel ensures a stay that's both indulgent and culturally enriching. Its prime location allows easy access to Tokyo's major attractions, shopping districts, and business centers, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers seeking convenience and sophistication. With its attentive service and tranquil atmosphere, the hotel in Tokyo promises an unforgettable stay that captures the essence of Japanese elegance and the dynamic spirit of the city.

Enjoy a day of exploration, culture, and food in Tokyo.

Meet your English-speaking guide in the hotel lobby.

Start at Tsukiji Fish Market. Your guide will show you not only seafood but also kitchen utensils and other Japanese ingredients. 　

Enjoy a private sushi experience at a local sushi restaurant. The chef will show you how to slice sashimi and make nigiri pieces with detailed instructions.

Enjoy your creations for lunch.

After, visit Meiji Shrine which is the most worshipped shrine in Japan.

Head next door to Harajuku, peruising popular fashion boutiques of new-to-come designers as well as Kiddyland home of famous Japanese characters, which is fun for all ages. Walk through Omotesando, lined with fashion boutiques and gourmet shops. Also you will be able to find contemporary architecture designed by leading Japanese and international architects.

Finish the day in Shibuya, one of the largest pedestrian crossings in the world.

Booked by Scenset

Enjoy another full day of exploration around Tokyo.

Enjoy a day of touring starting at the iconic Tokyo Tower. Once a beacon for TV broadcasts, this landmark now offers breathtaking views from its Top Deck, 250 meters above the ground. On clear days, the panorama extends to Greater Tokyo, Yokohama, Disneyland, and even the majestic Mt. Fuji, offering a unique perspective on Japan's sprawling landscapes.

The journey continues to the Imperial Palace Plaza, where the serene beauty of the Double Bridges spans the historical moat. This picturesque setting, against the backdrop of the palace's lush gardens and ancient architecture, offers a peaceful glimpse into Japan's rich imperial heritage.

Continue to Asakusa, home to the venerable Sensoji Temple, nestled in the city's oldest district. Traverse the historic Kaminarimon Gate and meander through the Nakamise Arcade, a bustling alley lined with shops offering crafts and souvenirs. Delight in the opportunity to explore local street foods with your guide, from whimsical face-shaped buns filled with sweet azuki beans to savory rice crackers and soft mochi rice cakes.

Next, find tranquility at Kiyosumi Garden, a serene oasis created by an individual. Wander through this stroll-style garden, where a large pond, meticulously trimmed pine trees, and artfully placed rocks create a landscape of peaceful beauty.

End your touring at Teamlab Borderless Digital Art Museum, Japan's top-rated museum, where art and technology converge for an immersive, multi-sensory experience. Hundreds of computers and projectors weave together to create a world where art transcends physical boundaries.

Head from Tokyo to Hakone.

Meet your English-speaking guide in the hotel lobby and begin your overland transfer to Hakone.

First, stop at a scenic spot where you will be escorted to the observation point.

After, head to a location featuring eight ponds. While there, visit the preserved area with thatch-roofed houses.

Continue onward and visit an active volcanic vent. While here, we suggest trying one of the famous local eggs which are boiled in the hot spring water. It is believed that eating one can extend your life.

Drive down to a lake and visit a historical checkpoint and learn how people travelled through the area in the old days.

Arrive at your destination in the late afternoon.

Booked by Scenset

Why we love it for you: Nestled in the serene Gora region and overlooking the majestic Mt. Myojogatake, this ryokan epitomizes the fusion of contemporary elegance with the traditional Japanese ryokan experience. Following a comprehensive renovation in 2021, this exclusive retreat boasts stylish suites equipped with wooden terraces and private outdoor hot spring baths, offering guests panoramic views of Hakone's natural splendor. The absence of light pollution allows for unparalleled stargazing opportunities. Dining here is an immersive experience, with multicourse kaiseki dinners served in-room, featuring a seasonal menu of local ingredients prepared with traditional Japanese techniques and a modern flair. Guests have the option of Japanese or Western breakfasts with prior arrangement. The ryokan also offers spa treatments focused on mindfulness, delivered by therapists trained by the Esalen Institute in the US, allowing guests to indulge in high-quality relaxation while soaking in the stunning views of Hakone.

Enjoy a full day in Hakone.

Start the day with a serene cruise around the picturesque Lake Ashi. This shared boat ride offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the iconic Mount Fuji on clear days, creating a tranquil and awe-inspiring start to the day.

After disembarking, visitors can explore the rich history and art of the area, perhaps visiting the Hakone Shrine with its famous torii gate that appears to float on the water, or the Hakone Open Air Museum, showcasing impressive sculptures and artworks in a stunning outdoor setting. The journey continues with a ride on the Hakone Tozan Railway, winding through lush mountains and offering glimpses of rural Japanese life.

The day can be capped off with a dip in one of Hakone's many natural hot springs, a perfect way to relax and reflect.

Booked by Scenset.

Travel to Kyoto by bullet train.

Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is a city that beautifully encapsulates the essence of ancient Japan with its remarkable preservation of history and culture. Home to over 2,000 religious sites, including 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, Kyoto offers a deep dive into the country's spiritual heritage. Among its many historical treasures, the city boasts 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, showcasing its significant role in Japanese history from 794 until 1868. Beyond its architectural marvels, Kyoto's narrow alleyways, bustling with tea houses and geisha sightings, offer an intimate glimpse into traditional Japanese life. The city's rich cultural tapestry is further adorned with stunning palaces, gardens, and the iconic Kinkakuji or Golden Pavilion, a testament to Kyoto's enduring beauty and charm. As a city that has withstood the test of time, Kyoto stands as a living monument to Japan's historical and cultural past, inviting visitors to explore its many wonders.

Upon arrival in Kyoto, head to Kinkakuji and the must-see sites & hidden gems of Arashiyama mountain side.

Start at Kinkakuji, the Golden Temple, which is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site. A historical figure established this temple covered with gold leaf to show prosperity and wealth.

After, head to the Arashiyama district in Kyoto's mountain side. Enjoy a rickshaw ride through the Bamboo grove.

Visit Tenryuji, one of the important Zen temples in Japan. Enjoy a traditional vegetarian lunch highlighting dishes eaten by Buddhist monks. You will also have time to explore Gioji Temple, which has a moss garden & thatch-roofed temple hall, which was established as a nunnery.

Next, head to Saga Toriimoto, a preserved area near Kyoto. Located along the ancient pilgrimage to Atago shrine, the Toriimoto area has picturesque rural scenery with old houses established by various workers. The buildings have been repurposed into cafes, teahouses, antique stores, and craft shops.

In the late afternoon, enjoy a private tea ceremony led by a tea master. Matcha tea will be served with seasonal sweets.

Booked by Scenset

Why we love it for you: Tucked away on the historic Muromachi-dori in the heart of Kyoto, a boutique luxury hotel emerges as a gem, where the charm of a traditional machiya townhouse meets contemporary elegance. This architectural masterpiece, thoughtfully renovated by a celebrated Kyoto carpenter, weaves together over a century of history with the finesse of modern luxury. The hotel boasts 29 spacious and tastefully designed guest rooms, offering a tranquil haven in the midst of Kyoto's lively essence. Culinary delights await at the hotel's dining establishments, where guests can savor the fusion of Japanese and Italian cuisines, each dish a testament to the harmonious blend of classic tastes and modern creativity. This hotel is more than just a place to stay; it's a portal to a world of unforgettable experiences, capturing the essence of Kyoto's rich heritage while embracing the vibrancy of its present.

Enjoy a full day of touring Kyoto.

Meet your English-speaking guide in the hotel lobby.

Start your day at the must-see sites & hidden gems of the Arashiyama mountain side. Start at Kinkakuji, Golden Pavilion, which is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The shogun established this temple covered with gold leaf in order to show his prosperity and wealth.

Enjoy a 30 minute rickshaw ride through bamboo grove.

Visit Tenryuji, one of the important Zen temples in Japan.

For lunch, enjoy shojin cuisine with vegetarian dishes eaten by Buddhist monks.

Head to Gioji Temple, which has a small moss garden & thatch-roofed temple hall, originally established as a nunnery.

After, visit Saga Toriimoto area, registered as a preserved area by Kyoto city. Located along the ancient pilgrimage path to Atago Shrine, Toriimoto area has picturesque rural scenery with old buildings once owned by farmers, merchants, and foresters. The buildings have been repurposed into cafes, teahouses, antique stores, and craft shops.

In the late afternoon, enjoy a private tea ceremony by a tea master. Matcha tea will be served with seasonal sweets.

Enjoy a full day of exploration in and around Nara.

Nara, Japan's first permanent capital, is a city steeped in history and tradition, offering a journey back in time to the scenset of Japanese culture. This picturesque city is home to some of Japan's oldest and most significant temples, including the awe-inspiring Todai-ji, which houses the world's largest bronze statue of the Buddha Vairocana. Visitors can wander through Nara Park, where hundreds of tame deer roam freely, considered messengers of the gods in Shinto religion. Nara's serene gardens, ancient shrines, and traditional tea houses provide a tranquil escape from the modern world, while its museums offer a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Japanese history and art. A visit to Nara is a must for anyone seeking to experience the depth and beauty of Japan's cultural heritage.

Embark on a day trip from Kyoto to Nara.

Begin your journey in the ancient city of Nara, where history whispers through the streets and grand temples like Todai-ji, housing Japan's largest bronze Buddha, command awe and respect. Here, amidst the verdant beauty of Nara Park, friendly deer roam freely, offering a unique and enchanting interaction with nature.

On your way back to Kyoto, head to Fushimi Inari Shrine, a place where thousands of vermilion torii gates create a breathtaking pathway through the sacred Mount Inari. This iconic site, not only a photographer's dream but also a spiritual haven, offers panoramic views of Kyoto, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Depart today and travel back to Tokyo to catch your international departure.

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