Excursions by Exotrav

Japan Tour

Tradition Meets Modern Art

Trip Duration:

11 days

Recommended season:

October–November

March–May

Japan - Trip Summary

This 11-day journey through Japan blends ancient tradition, cutting-edge modernity, and natural beauty. Begin in vibrant Tokyo with iconic sites such as Meiji Shrine, Shibuya Crossing, and Senso-ji Temple. Continue to Osaka, the nation’s culinary capital, before traveling to Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart, to explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the Philosopher’s Path, and magnificent temples. Take a day trip to Nara to see the Great Buddha and friendly roaming deer. Visit Okayama’s celebrated Korakuen Garden and discover Naoshima, Japan’s famous “art island” with striking contemporary museums, large outdoor sculptures, and installations set against scenic coastal landscapes. Conclude with a full-day private tour of Hakone, featuring open-air art, volcanic valleys, and a cruise on Lake Ashi, with views of Mount Fuji.

Art • Urban  • Tradition

Day 1

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Welcome to Tokyo! Japan’s capital offers a fascinating blend of bold innovation and timeless tradition – skyscrapers alongside wooden houses with bamboo blinds, bustling avenues opening to serene parks.
Upon arrival, enjoy a private transfer to your hotel.
Overnight in Tokyo.

Day 2

Day 2: Tokyo – Between Tradition and Modernity

After breakfast, enjoy a private guided city tour using public transportation. Visit Meiji Shrine, a peaceful site representing Japan’s ancient Shinto faith, set in a lush forest dedicated to Emperor Meiji, who led Japan’s transformation into a modern nation.
Continue to Shibuya, famous for its giant billboards, vibrant shops, and the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing. Visit the beautiful Imperial Palace Gardens, then explore Asakusa, home to Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, and Nakamise Street with its traditional shops and cafés.
End the day with panoramic city views from Tokyo Tower.
Overnight in Tokyo.

Day 3

Day 3: Tokyo – Osaka – City Tour

After breakfast, travel independently to the station for a 4-hour train ride to Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city and culinary capital, known as the “Kitchen of Japan.”
Upon arrival, take a half-day private tour using public transport. Visit Osaka Castle, an iconic 16th-century fortress surrounded by moats and gardens, ascend the Umeda Sky Building for city views, and explore the lively Dotonbori entertainment district.
Overnight in Osaka.

Day 4

Day 4: Osaka – Kyoto – Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

After breakfast, take a 1-hour train ride to Kyoto, Japan’s imperial capital for over 1,000 years.
Meet your guide for a half-day tour of Arashiyama, visiting Tenryuji Temple, walking through the majestic Bamboo Grove, and crossing Togetsukyo Bridge (508 ft / 155 m), known for its role in local traditions. Return to Kyoto.
Overnight in Kyoto.

Day 5

Day 5: Kyoto – Philosopher’s Path, Tea Ceremony & Temples

After breakfast, enjoy a full-day private tour. Visit Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), stroll along the cherry tree–lined Philosopher’s Path, and see Yasaka Shrine. Experience a traditional tea ceremony, then explore the preserved Ninenzaka district.
Continue to Kodaiji Temple and end at Kiyomizu-dera, offering sweeping views of Kyoto.
Overnight in Kyoto.

 

Day 6

Day 6: Kyoto – Nara – Kyoto

After breakfast, take a private day trip to Nara, where friendly deer roam freely. Visit Todaiji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, Kasuga Shrine, and Nara Park. Return to Kyoto to visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its thousands of red torii gates.
Overnight in Kyoto.

Day 7

Day 7: Kyoto – Okayama – City Tour

After breakfast, take a 1.5-hour train to Okayama. Visit Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s finest, and Okayama Castle, built in 1687.
Overnight in Okayama.

Day 8

Day 8: Okayama – Naoshima – Okayama

After breakfast, meet your guide and travel to Naoshima, the “art island,” home to contemporary art museums and installations. Visit the Art House Project, Lee Ufan Museum, Chichu Art Museum, and Benesse House Museum. Return to Okayama.
Overnight in Okayama.

Day 9

Day 9: Okayama – Tokyo

After breakfast, take a 4-hour train to Tokyo. Afternoon at leisure.
Overnight in Tokyo.

Day 10

Day 10: Tokyo – Hakone – Tokyo

After breakfast, take a private guided day trip to Hakone. Visit the Chokokunomori Open-Air Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, ride the ropeway to Owakudani Valley, and enjoy views of Mt. Fuji (weather permitting). Take a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi before returning to Tokyo.
Overnight in Tokyo.

Day 11

Day 11: Tokyo – Departure

After breakfast, private transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

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