Classic Japan Holidays (13 Days)

Enjoy a captivating 13-day journey through Japan, designed for first-time visitors eager to explore the country’s highlights and immerse themselves in its rich culture. Your adventure begins in the vibrant city of Tokyo, where you’ll spend several days experiencing its blend of futuristic innovation and traditional charm. From there, travel to Hakone National Park to witness stunning attractions, including the iconic Mount Fuji.

Next, hop on a bullet train to Kyoto, the ancient capital, renowned for its breathtaking heritage sites. Continue your exploration westward to Hiroshima, with a visit to the serene island of Miyajima in the picturesque Inland Sea, situated between Honshu and Shikoku. The tour concludes with a night in Osaka, celebrated as Japan’s culinary hotspot.

THIS TOUR CAN BE ALSO CUSTOMISE FOR COUPLES

PRICE PER PERSON BESED ON FAMILY OF 4
FROM £3;790
DURATION
13 DAYS

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Tour Highlights:

Tokyo:

  • Tokyo Skytree: The tallest structure in Japan, offering stunning views of the city.
  • Senso-ji Temple: Tokyo’s oldest temple located in Asakusa, famous for its vibrant Nakamise shopping street.
  • Shibuya Crossing: One of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, symbolizing Tokyo’s bustling energy.
  • Ghibli Museum: A whimsical museum dedicated to the works of Studio Ghibli, showcasing animation and art.
  • Ueno Park: A spacious public park featuring museums, a zoo, and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.

Hakone:

  • Owakudani Valley: A volcanic valley known for its hot springs and stunning views of Mount Fuji.
  • Lake Ashi: A picturesque lake where you can enjoy boat cruises with views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Hakone Open-Air Museum: An outdoor art museum featuring sculptures and installations in a beautiful natural setting.
  • Gora Park: A beautiful park with gardens, a teahouse, and a greenhouse.

Kyoto:

  • Fushimi Inari Taisha: Famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates leading up Mount Inari.
  • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: A serene bamboo forest located in Arashiyama, perfect for leisurely strolls.
  • Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): A stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
  • Gion District: The iconic geisha district with traditional wooden machiya houses and tea houses.

Hiroshima:

  • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: A site dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing, featuring the A-Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Museum.
  • Shukkei-en Garden: A historic Japanese garden known for its scenic beauty and tranquility.
  • Hiroshima Castle: A reconstructed castle surrounded by a moat and beautiful park.

Miyajima Island:

  • Itsukushima Shrine: A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its “floating” torii gate that appears to be on water during high tide.
  • Mount Misen: The highest peak on Miyajima, offering breathtaking panoramic views after a scenic hike.
  • Tsutsumigaura Beach: A beautiful sandy beach perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature.

Osaka:

  • Osaka Castle: A historic castle surrounded by lovely gardens, offering insights into Japan’s history.
  • Dotonbori: A vibrant entertainment district known for its neon lights, street food, and lively atmosphere.
  • Universal Studios Japan: A popular theme park featuring attractions based on movies and franchises.
  • Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade: A bustling shopping area with a mix of international brands and local boutiques.

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Japan Classic Holidays

Embark on a captivating 13-day journey through Japan, designed for first-time visitors eager to explore the country’s highlights and immerse themselves in its rich culture. Your adventure begins in the vibrant city of Tokyo, where you’ll spend several days experiencing its blend of futuristic innovation and traditional charm. From there, travel to Hakone National Park to witness stunning attractions, including the iconic Mount Fuji. Next, hop on a bullet train to Kyoto, the ancient capital, renowned for its breathtaking heritage sites. Continue your exploration westward to Hiroshima, with a visit to the serene island of Miyajima in the picturesque Inland Sea, situated between Honshu and Shikoku. The tour concludes with a night in Osaka, celebrated as Japan’s culinary hotspot.

Our Suggested Itinerary

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Day 1 –  Travel to Japan

Today you will fly to Japan. We will discus the best possible connections that suits you.

 

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

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Day 2 – Arrival & Transfer- Tokyo

Konnichiwa” and ‘’Youkoso’’ Welcome to the land of rising sun. You will be welcomed and greeted by your guide or Earth Trip representative on arrival at the Waiting Area at Haneda International Airport. You will travel to Tokyo by car. Travel time is approximately 60 minutes depends on the traffic conditions.  You will check in at hotel starting from 14:00 and assistance will terminate at the check in.

 

Location: Tokyo      Hotel: 4*      Room: Standard      Board: Breakfast

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

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Day 3 –  Tokyo

Today you will start the tour with Tokyo sightseeing by public transport with the assistance of English-speaking guide. For that places like Akakusa temple, Nakamise shopping street, Shibuya crossing, Pokeman Centre, Harajuku area and Sumida river cruise will be included.

 

Location: Tokyo      Hotel: 4*     Room: Standard      Board: Breakfast

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

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Day 4 – Tokyo

Today you will explore The Ghibli Museum is the animation and art museum of Miyazaki Hayao’s Studio Ghibli, one of Japan’s most famous animation studios. They have produced many feature length films, such as My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away and Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea. Located in Mitaka, just outside of central Tokyo, not far from Kichijoji, the museum is a must-see for fans of the films. The museum itself is whimsically designed in the distinct style of the studio’s films, and many of their famous characters are there, including a life-sized robot from “Castle in the Sky” in the rooftop garden. The first floor of the museum exhibits the history and techniques of animation and has a small theater which shows short movies by Studio Ghibli that are exclusive to the museum. The second floor houses special temporary exhibitions. The museum also has a cafe, children’s play area, a rooftop garden and a gift shop.

Afterwards you will visit The Tokyo Skytree is a television broadcasting tower and landmark of Tokyo. It is the centerpiece of the Tokyo Skytree Town in the Sumida City Ward, not far away from Asakusa. With a height of 634 meters (634 can be read as “Musashi”, a historic name of the Tokyo Region), it is the tallest structure in Japan and was the second tallest in the world at the time of its completion. A large shopping complex with an aquarium is located at its base.

Afterwards you will explore Ueno Park. Ueno in central Tokyo is best known for its vibrant food scene, cherry blossoms in the park and numerous museums.

 

Afterwards you will visit Rainbow Bridge and Statue of Liberty. Walk the Rainbow Bridge – make a day trip to Odaiba, the large artificial island in Tokyo Bay, home to the Japanese Statue of Liberty, the Unicorn Gundam Statue, museums of science and innovation, futuristic architecture in Japan, and, not least, the beautiful Odaiba Beach.

You will finish the day with visit to The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation

 

Location: Tokyo      Hotel: 4*        Room: Standard    Board: Breakfast

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

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Day 5 – Tokyo – Hakone

Today you will travel to Hakone with private transfer. (1.5h-02h).

You will receive a 3-Day Hakone Free Pass, granting you unlimited access to mountain buses, railways, cable cars, and lake cruises, as well as discounted entry to various museums.

You can start exploring today.

Location: Hakone    Hotel : 4*   Room: Double  Board: Breakfast

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

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Day 6 – Exploring Hakone

You have two full days to explore the Hakone National Park using your Hakone Free Pass. Places of interest that can be visited include Owakudani, a steaming valley of hot mud springs. A cable car takes passengers over the valley to a viewpoint from where it is possible to explore the area on foot. On clear days there are good views from here of the surrounding mountain ranges and of Mount Fuji. Another popular excursion is taking a cruise on Lake Ashi, a lake created from a volcanic crater, which is surrounded by wooded slopes that are dotted with small shrines. The outdoor sculpture park and Picasso gallery is a great place to wander around for an afternoon. For relaxation there is the option of soaking in one of the many therapeutic hot spring baths that Hakone is so famous for.

Location: Hakone    Hotel : 4*   Room: Standard Double ;  Board: Breakfast

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

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Day 7 – Bullet Train to Kyoto

This morning, you’ll board the bus to Odawara Station using your Hakone Free Pass. Upon arrival at Odawara, you will then board a bullet train for a swift journey to Kyoto, which takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Rest of the day at leisure.

Location: Kyoto    Hotel : 4*   Room: Double  Board: Breakfast

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

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Day 8 – Kyoto

Today you will explore Arashiyama known as Bamboo Forest, is a pleasant, touristy district in the western outskirts of Kyoto. The area has been a popular destination since the Heian Period (794-1185), when nobles would enjoy its natural setting. Arashiyama is particularly popular during the cherry blossom and fall color seasons.

The Togetsukyo Bridge is Arashiyama’s well known, central landmark. Many small shops, restaurants and other attractions are found nearby, including Tenryuji Temple, Arashiyama’s famous bamboo groves and pleasure boats that are available for rent on the river.

North of central Arashiyama the atmosphere becomes less touristy and more rural, with several small temples scattered along the base of the wooded mountains. The area north of the Togetsukyo Bridge is also known as Sagano, while “Arashiyama” technically refers just to the mountains south of the river but is commonly used to name the entire district.

After lunch you will experience the Samurai.

You will first be given a tour of the samurai residence before dressing in “Hakama,” or samurai garb. Every guest will wear these elegant black outfits, and there begins the timeslip experience. After that, you can take in a very factual lecture about samurai, covering their history and various roles in Japan’s various eras. The masters will then perform live traditional music and demonstrate some extremely amazing sword skills that are sure to leave you speechless.

 

Afterwards you will return to your hotel

Location: Kyoto      Hotel : Ace Hotel Kyoto;   Room :Standard Double   Board: Breakfast

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

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Day 9 – Kyoto

Gion is Kyoto‘s most famous geisha district, located around Shijo Avenue between Yasaka Shrine in the east and the Kamo River in the west. It is filled with shops, restaurants and ochaya (teahouses), where geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) and maiko (geiko apprentices) entertain.

Gion attracts tourists with its high concentration of traditional wooden machiya merchant houses. Due to the fact that property taxes were formerly based upon street frontage, the houses were built with narrow facades only five to six meters wide, but extend up to twenty meters in from the street.

Afterwards optional visit to Market or Railway Museum

 

Location: Kyoto      Hotel : Ace Hotel Kyoto;   Room :Standard Double;    Board: Breakfast

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Day 10 – Kyoto – Hiroshima – Miyajima Island

Traveling from Kyoto to Hiroshima, you’ll board the Shinkansen and journey along the eastern seaboard, covering nearly 400 kilometers in about 2 hours with your Japan Rail Pass. Along the way, the train passes through several major coastal cities, including Kobe, renowned for its premium beef. Once in Hiroshima, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in self-guided sightseeing, where the city’s historical significance is palpable. Most notably, Hiroshima is remembered for the tragic events of August 6, 1945, when it became the first city to experience the horrors of nuclear warfare. Key sites to visit include the A-Bomb Dome, preserved as a haunting symbol of devastation, and the Peace Museum, set in the expansive Peace Park, which features an eternal flame that will burn until the last nuclear weapon is dismantled. Allow at least half a day for these essential visits. Despite its somber past, Hiroshima is now a vibrant city with attractions such as the Museum of Art, Hiroshima Castle, and the home stadium of the Hiroshima Carp, Japan’s only non-corporate major league baseball team. Don’t miss a leisurely stroll through Shukkei-en Garden, dotted with teahouses, or the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art, which features works inspired by the 1945 bombing. A culinary highlight of your visit should be the local dish, Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake that you can customize and cook at your table, alongside the region’s renowned oysters. To reach Miyajima Island from Hiroshima, take the local JR Sanyo Line train from Hiroshima Station to Miyajima-Guchi Station, a 25-minute journey followed by a 5-minute walk to the port. From there, hop on the JR Ferry, which takes about 10 minutes and offers stunning views of the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its famous “floating” torii gate as you approach Miyajima pier. Alternatively, you can take a tram from the Peace Park to Miyajima-Guchi Port, which takes around 50 minutes and provides a unique glimpse into Hiroshima’s neighborhoods, with a fare of just 270 yen, ending a two-minute walk from the port.

Location: Miyajima Island;     Hotel : 4*;    Room :Standard Double;    Board: Breakfast

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

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Day 11 – Miyajima Island

Self-Guided Sightseeing on Miyajima Island: Today, you’ll have the freedom to explore the enchanting Miyajima Island at your own pace. Consider renting bicycles to enhance your experience; bike rentals are available daily from 8 AM to 5 PM at the JR ferry pier, with the last checkout at 3 PM, costing just 1,050 yen for a full day. The island boasts excellent cycling paths, and the coastal routes are predominantly flat, making it easy and enjoyable for riders of all skill levels.

As you pedal along, make your way to the picturesque Tsutsumigaura Beach on the northeast coast, a stunning stretch of white sand that extends for 1 kilometer and is lined with graceful pine trees. During the peak summer months of July and August, this beach comes alive with sunbathers, swimmers, and windsurfers, creating a vibrant atmosphere. However, if you visit during the off-season, you’ll discover a serene and tranquil oasis perfect for relaxation, where you can bask in the beauty of nature and enjoy the gentle sound of the waves lapping at the shore.

While exploring the island, be sure to visit some of its renowned landmarks, such as the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its “floating” torii gate, and the scenic hiking trails leading to Mount Misen, where breathtaking panoramic views await. With its blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, Miyajima Island offers a perfect day of adventure and discovery at your leisure.

Location: Miyajima Island;      Hotel : 4*;    Room :Standard Double;    Board: Breakfast

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

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Day 12 – Hiroshima – Osaka

This morning, embark on a brief 8-minute ferry ride back to the mainland. Upon arrival, take a local train from Miyajima-Guchi port to Hiroshima Station. From there, transfer to a bullet train heading to Osaka, with the entire journey taking approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Osaka:

Exploring Osaka offers a delightful mix of modernity and tradition. Start your adventure in the bustling district of Namba, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere of Dotonbori, famous for its neon lights, street food, and the iconic Glico Man sign. Don’t miss the chance to savor local delicacies like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) at the numerous stalls and restaurants.

For a taste of history, visit Osaka Castle, a stunning landmark surrounded by beautiful gardens, where you can learn about the city’s rich past. The Osaka Museum of History nearby provides further insight into the city’s development over the centuries.

Art lovers will appreciate the National Museum of Art, featuring contemporary works, and the Osaka Science Museum, which is perfect for families. For a unique shopping experience, head to Shinsaibashi, where you’ll find a mix of high-end stores, boutiques, and traditional shops.

In the evening, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Umeda Sky Building’s floating garden observatory, offering a spectacular backdrop for your exploration. Osaka is also known for its nightlife, so consider visiting the trendy bars and clubs in the Kitashinchi district to round off your day.

Location: Osaka      Hotel : 4* ;    Room :Standard Double;    Board: Breakfast

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

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Day 13 – Osaka -Fly Back Home

Today you will travel to Airport. (Private transfers). Private transfer to airport for your flight to your destination.

 

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

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End Of The Tour

This tour can be fully personalised and upgrades are available.

Japan Classic Holiday will be designed to suit your preferences.

PACKAGE DETAILS

Price Includes:

  • Return economy flights from UK. Contact us for flights quotation from different countries.
  • Excursions,
  • Entry fees as per itinerary,
  • Transport: Private A/C Car with Chauffeur Guide
  • Hotels: As per itinerary. We can change the hotels according to your requirements

Tailor Your Tour

Potential Highlights

Our itineraries are purely suggestions. Are there more activities you want to experience? Is there specific wildlife you wish to see? We can create a bespoke itinerary just for you.

Discover Experiences

Tailor Your Tour

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Our travel specialists are seasoned explorers with deep local insights. Whether it’s uncovering hidden gems or planning immersive cultural experiences, we design trips that go beyond the ordinary. Get in touch today!

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Speak to our Japan travel expert today

Izabela Fronczyk

Speak to our Japan travel expert today

Izabela Fronczyk

Tailor Your Tour

Potential Highlights

Our itineraries are purely suggestions. Are there more activities you want to experience? Is there specific wildlife you wish to see? We can create a bespoke itinerary just for you.

Discover Experiences

Tailor Your Tour