Japan in Three Strokes: Tokyo, Mishima-shi and Kyoto

Once you are all set and had your delicious breakfast at the hotel, be ready to explore the streets and iconic destinations of Tokyo. Join the Tokyo city tour and explore more about the city.

To begin, visit the serene Meiji Jingu Shrine, nestled within a tranquil forest that honors Emperor Meiji, the first emperor of modern Japan, and his Empress. Next, head to the majestic Asakusa Kannon Temple (Sensoji), home to a revered golden image of Kannon, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. Its entrance is marked by a towering paper lantern, painted vividly in striking red and black hues. Stroll along Nakamise, a historic shopping street lined with stalls offering everything from souvenirs to authentic Edo-style crafts. Then, proceed to the Tokyo Imperial Palace, an expansive parkland with stunning gardens serving as the residence of Japan’s Imperial family. Don’t miss the iconic Nijubashi Bridge, the picturesque gateway to the palace’s main entrance. After the tour, return to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

It’s your full day in Tokyo, have your breakfast and head out of your accommodation. Tokyo offers an extraordinary culinary scene along with a vibrant mix of art, fashion, and culture. For a different perspective on the city, take a leisurely stroll through the scenic Ueno Park, a peaceful green space dotted with museums and temples. While there, visit the Tokyo National Museum, home to a remarkable collection of art and historical artifacts from across Asia, offering insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Later, join a half day Kamakura sightseeing tour.

Today, travel to the historic city of Kamakura, once the political center of Japan when it was established as the capital by the Minamoto clan in 1192. The city is renowned for its rich heritage of Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. Begin your tour at Hokokuji Temple, nestled in the hills of eastern Kamakura, famous for its serene bamboo grove located behind the main hall. A short walk brings you to Jomyoji Temple, one of the five great Zen temples of Kamakura, offering a glimpse into the spiritual traditions of the region. Continue on to Kotoku-in Temple, home to the iconic 43-foot-tall Great Buddha, a majestic bronze statue that has stood since 1292 and remains one of Japan’s most recognized landmarks. After learning about its history and cultural significance, enjoy some free time to explore the charming streets of Kamakura at your own pace before returning to Tokyo.

This morning, depart Tokyo and journey south to Hakone, one of Japan’s most celebrated national parks, renowned for its natural beauty and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery along the way as you make your way into the mountains. Begin your day with a peaceful cruise on the serene waters of Lake Ashi, surrounded by forested hills and, on clear days, majestic views of Mount Fuji. After lunch on your own, continue with a gondola ride* on the Hakone Ropeway, offering panoramic views as you ascend to the Owakudani Valley, an active volcanic zone. Here, you’ll witness steaming vents, bubbling hot springs, and the famous black eggs boiled in the sulfur-rich waters—local legend claims eating one can add seven years to your life.

Next, visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, a 200-acre sculpture park nestled in a scenic mountain setting. The museum features an impressive collection of modern and contemporary works by both Japanese and international artists, beautifully integrated into the natural landscape.

*Please note: Weather conditions in the Hakone area, particularly around Mount Fuji, can be unpredictable. Cloud cover may obscure views, and adverse weather may affect the operation of the ropeway or lake cruise.

Enjoy a smooth and comfortable transfer to the Hakone area in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle.
Relax as a professional driver ensures a safe and hassle-free journey through scenic landscapes.
Arrive in Hakone refreshed and ready to explore its hot springs, natural beauty, and iconic views of Mount Fuji.

After breakfast, transfer to Mishima Station to board the bullet train bound for historic Kyoto—a city that once served as Japan’s imperial capital and remains home to many of the nation’s most treasured cultural and architectural legacies.

Enjoy a smooth and comfortable transfer to the train station in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle.
Relax as a professional driver ensures a safe and timely journey.
Arrive at the station ready for your onward travel.

Enjoy a smooth and comfortable transfer to your Kyoto hotel in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle.
Relax as a professional driver ensures a safe and hassle-free journey.
Arrive at your hotel refreshed and ready to begin your stay.

Begin your day with a visit to Nishiki Market, a lively, five-block shopping street lined with over a hundred shops and restaurants. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” the market offers a wide variety of local specialties, including Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood, fresh produce, and seasonal delicacies. Next, explore the iconic Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its striking gold-leaf exterior and its tranquil setting beside a reflective pond, surrounded by lush greenery. Conclude the tour with a stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s most famous geisha district. As you walk along its atmospheric streets, take in the traditional wooden machiya houses, elegant tea houses, and local shops where geisha and maiko continue to uphold centuries-old traditions.

Today, you will witness the most beautiful sites of Japan, enjoy your breakfast, grab your camera and head out of the hotel. Meet your driver and enjoy your Kyoto and Nara tour.

This morning, travel via the Nara Keinawa Expressway to Nara, Japan’s 8th-century imperial capital and a treasure trove of cultural heritage. With eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites and countless historic landmarks, Nara offers a deep connection to Japan’s ancient past. Begin your exploration at the magnificent Todai-ji Temple, one of the world’s largest wooden structures and home to the Great Buddha—a towering bronze statue that stands over 50 feet tall.

Continue to Nara Park, where more than 1,000 tame deer roam freely. Considered sacred messengers in Shinto belief, these deer offer a unique opportunity for up-close encounters in a serene natural setting. The tour then takes you to the beautifully preserved Kasuga Taisha Shrine, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its atmospheric walkways lined with over 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns.

Conclude the day with a visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, nestled at the base of Mount Inari. Famous for its seemingly endless path of thousands of vermilion torii gates, this shrine offers one of Kyoto’s most memorable and photogenic experiences. Return to Kyoto with free time this afternoon. Rest of the day is at leisure.

If time allows enjoy your final breakfast and transfer to Osaka Airport for your departure flight. The airport is approximately a one-hour drive from Kyoto, depending on traffic conditions. Enjoy your flight to home dreaming about your next tour soon.