Guide

Expert English-speaking local guide

Insurance

Basic insurance is included on this tour. The policy comes into effect on arriving at the destination, at the start of the services with UME Travel and it expires when the circuit arranged by our company has ended.

Transport

All mentioned internal flights, trains, and cruises Private & air-conditioned vehicle with ample space

Meals

Meals as mentioned in the above itinerary This tour offers Vegetarian, Vegan and Halal food options on request. Simply let UME Travel know the food option that you prefer.

Accommodation

Day1-4 Mitsui Garden Hotel Shiodome Italia-gai or similar - 4 stars Day5 Fuji View Hotel or similar - 4 stars Day6-7 Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto-ekimae or similar - 4 stars Day8 HOTEL UNIZO Kyoto Karasuma Oike or similar - 3 stars Day9-10 Hotel Wing International Takamatsu or similar - 3 stars Day11-13 Miyako City Osaka Hommachi or similar - 4 stars Carefully selected accommodation with breakfast Accommodation based on two people sharing (for each person not sharing a room, the single supplement will be added) Well screened Hotels Handpicked hotels with good service and spacious room. Super nice location Downtown location with convenient transportation and many good restaurants nearby.

Not included:

Flights

International flights are not included

Optional

You have the option to enhance your tour with additional experiences, which come at an extra cost. Details for these optional activities will be included in your finalized travel documents.

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Arrival In Tokyo
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Arrival In Tokyo

Flight to Japan. Upon arrival in Tokyo, your driver shall welcome you to the country at the airport’s arrival hall and get you to your hotel via your own personal vehicle.

Accomodation：

- Mitsui Garden Hotel Shiodome Italia-gai
Day 2 First Day In Tokyo (Personal Driver)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

First Day In Tokyo (Personal Driver)

Tsukiji Market food experience:Japan is known for its fresh seafood, and this small-group tour explores the outer Tsukiji Fish Market, where Tokyo’s top chefs shop for high-quality fish. Your guide leads you through the sprawling, 80-year-old market to visit fishmongers and food vendors. Sample a range of sushi, Japanese-style omelets, fried fish cakes, sake, and Japanese tea on this in-depth experience of the legendary market.

Imperial Palace Outer Gardens:Tokyo Imperial Palace Outer Gardens was the emperors’ residence between 1888 and 1948. There is a big garden in the palace, where tourist can see many historical houses and colorful plants. During cherry blossom season, many tourists admire the blossom here.

Shibuya Crossing:It is an unquestioned must-visit for any trip to Tokyo. The sprawling scramble intersection just outside Shibuya Station is an embodiment of Tokyo itself: action in all directions. Three huge television screens mounted on the buildings facing the intersection flash all day, while the rest of the area is covered with lights, advertisements, and more lights.

Shibuya hachiko:one of Japan’s unofficial landmarks, the Hachiko statue in Shibuya is a homage to the faithful Akita dog who waited at Shibuya Station every day for his master, even after his death. Today, it’s one of the most popular meeting places in Tokyo.

Tonight, you’ll be able to venture to the attractions via taxi and/or public transportation.

Located by the West Exit (Shinjuku Nishiguchi) of Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, Omoide Yokocho is a bar district reminiscent of the good old days, still retaining a nostalgic atmosphere. Approximately 80 premises, including ticket shops and some 60 bars and restaurants, mostly motsuyakiya (broiled offal restaurants) and yakitoriya (chicken skewer restaurants) crowd together in about 2,000 m2 of land, giving the district its bustling atmosphere and creating a spot that is popular with overseas tourists as well as locals. Experience the intriguing allure of Kabukicho, a pulsating locale situated in the heart of Tokyo’s Shinjuku, An acclaimed adult-oriented nightlife hub, Kabukicho brims with diverse entertainment avenues.

Accomodation：

- Mitsui Garden Hotel Shiodome Italia-gai

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 3 Tokyo’S Culinary And Urban Adventure (Personal Driver)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Tokyo’S Culinary And Urban Adventure (Personal Driver)

You’ll begin today at Tokyo`s oldest and most prominent temple, the majestic Senso-Ji. Steeped in tradition dating back over fourteen hundred years, Senso-Ji remains a cherished symbol of both Asakusa and Tokyo.

You’ll also embark on a guided Asakusa street food tour, where you’re given opportunities to try some of the local street food such as takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba (stir-fried noodles), the Asakusa-specialty monjayaki (savory pancake), and taiyaki (fish-shaped waffles filled with sweet bean paste).

Aboard the Sumida River Cruise, you’ll ride Tokyo Mizube Line’s comfortable water bus that will allow you to move freely in this thrilling scenic ride which you’ll pass by some of Tokyo’s top sights including the Tokyo Sky Tree, Tsukiji Bridge, Rainbow Bridge, and more! This hour-long cruise gives you the option between either the Asakusa to Odaiba route or vice versa whichever fits your schedule and itinerary best.

Afterward, you’ll wind down with a stroll at Odaiba Seaside Park, offering splendid photo opportunities with attractions such as the Rainbow Bridge, a Statue of Liberty replica, and more, all overlooking Tokyo Bay.

Accomodation：

- Mitsui Garden Hotel Shiodome Italia-gai

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 4 Tokyo Thrills (Personal Driver)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Tokyo Thrills (Personal Driver)

Today, you’ll discover the delicate art of making the perfect sushi roll with a Sushi Making Experience. This two-hour group cooking class inTokyo, where you’ll learn how to make different types of sushi, including nigiri, inari, hosomali, and more.

You’ll then visit Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo’s largest and most influential spiritual site. Located just beside the JR Yamanote Line’s busy Harajuku Station, Meiji Shrine and the adjacent Yoyogi Park make up a large forested area within the densely built-up city. The spacious shrine grounds offer walking paths that are great for a relaxing stroll.

Finally, you’ll venture to Tokyo Tower, which stands as the world’s tallest self-supported steel tower, towering three meters above its inspiration, the Eiffel Tower. Built in 1958, it offers stunning panoramic views of Tokyo’s cityscape and serves as a cultural symbol blending modernity and tradition. Don’t miss this iconic landmark that encapsulates Japan’s architectural prowess and rich cultural heritage.

*Inclues tickets for 1 Main Deck (150m) and Top Deck Tour (250m)

Accomodation：

- Mitsui Garden Hotel Shiodome Italia-gai

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 5 Scenic Getaways (Personal Driver)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Scenic Getaways (Personal Driver)

Today you’ll visit the West Lake, and discover the charm of Japan’s unique thick-thatched roof cottages known as West Lake Village. Enjoy a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance, with the village offering a serene ambiance with murmuring books, singing birds, and blooming flowers.

Next, you’ll venture to Oshino Hakkai, a cluster of eight springs in the quaint village of Oshino within the Fuji Five Lake region. Renowned for its crystal-clear and drinkable spring water, sourced from porous layers of hardened lava.

Ending the day, you’ll explore the stunning Narusawa Hyoketsu Ice Cave, situated at the east entrance to the Aokigahara Jukai "sea of trees" forest in the Five Lakes area. Formed over 1150 years ago by the lava flow from Nagaoyama, a flank volcano of Mt. Fuji, this two-tunnel looping cave is open for visits year-round.

At Arakurayama Sengen Park, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Mount Fuji and Fujiyoshida City, especially enchanting at night. In spring, cherry blossoms create a breathtaking scene around Arakura Fuji Sengen-jinja Shrine and its pagoda, both nestled within the park.

Accomodation：

- Fuji View Hotel

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 6 Hakone’S Natural And Nautical Adventures (Personal Driver)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Hakone’S Natural And Nautical Adventures (Personal Driver)

Hakone stands as the crown jewel of the Kanto region, and a notable tourist hotspot. Our "Hakone Day Tour" invites you to Lake Ashino, where you’ll board the "Hakone Pirate Ship" for a scenic voyage, treating you to the breathtaking vistas of Mount Fuji and the serene lake. Then, you’ll hop on the Hakone Ropeway for a mesmerizing ride to Owakudani. The journey offers a picturesque landscape throughout.

Owakudani, a remnant of a volcanic eruption 4,000 years ago, still showcases bursts of white smoke and the unmistakable scent of sulfur. Here, you’ll encounter the opportunity to purchase the legendary black jade, believed to extend life. It’s said that consuming one can add seven more years to your life!

Shinkansen/Bullet Train trip from Odawara to Kyoto（Ticket Included）

Train Station private pick-up/drop off service

Accomodation：

- Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto-ekimae

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 7 Gion Elegance And Higashiyama Sights (Personal Driver)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Gion Elegance And Higashiyama Sights (Personal Driver)

Today you’ll visit Kodai-ji Temple in Kyoto’s Higashiyama District, established in 1606 in memory of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan’s Great Unifiers. The main buildings showcase lavish interiors surrounded by beautiful Zen gardens. Explore this cultural gem steeped in history and nestled in the heart of Kyoto.

You’ll then visit Nene no Michi, which is situated in Higashiyama Ward along a prominent tourist route in eastern Kyoto, preserving a Kyoto of a bygone era. This street stands out for adhering to a more traditional architectural style, with a distinctive absence of garish signs and buried telephone wires—a rarity in the city. Experience the beauty and uniqueness of Nene no Michi, offering a glimpse into Kyoto’s historical charm.

Then, you’ll visit Yasaka Shrine, which is renowned for its annual Gion Matsuri held every July, standing as one of the most celebrated festivals in Japan. With a history spanning over a thousand years, the Gion Matsuri features a grand procession featuring massive floats and hundreds of participants, making it a cultural spectacle not to be missed.

You’ll experience the charm of Kyoto’s geisha culture in an evening at Hanamikoji Geisha District, particularly along the south side of Shijo-dori. A leisurely stroll through this area often rewards visitors with the enchanting sight of geisha.

Ending the day, you’lll enjoy seven vignettes of traditional Japanese performing arts in a captivating one-hour show at the Gion Corner theater. The program features chanoyu (tea preparation), koto music, ikebana flower arrangement, bugaku dance, kyogen comedy, and Kyomai dance. Depending on the season, the show includes scenes from either bunraku puppet theater or a noh play. Each attendee can also opt in for a digital tablet providing detailed information and translations throughout the performance.

Accomodation：

- Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto-ekimae

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 8 Cultural Journey (Personal Driver)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Cultural Journey (Personal Driver)

The stunning Higashi Honganji Temple is still an incredible feat of traditional Japanese architecture. Built in 1602 and located near Nishi Honganji Temple, these two enormous temples once formed a united complex before being separated during feudal times due to concerns over political influence. Today, Higashi Honganji continues to inviting visitors from all over the globe and maintains a significant role within Japan’s religious landscape as the head temple of the Otani faction of Jodo-shin Buddhism, and houses the Goeido: one of the world’s largest wooden structures, and the nearby Amidado Hall.

Next, you’ll visit Sanjusangendo which is the popular name for Rengeo-in, a temple in eastern Kyoto which is famous for its 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy of Japanese Buddhism. It is also home to a wooden statue of a 1000-armed Kannon (Senju Kannon) which is flanked on each side by 500 statues of human sized 1000-armed Kannon standing in ten rows.

Then, you’ll experience the grand Nishiki Market: a narrow, five block long shopping street lined by more than one hundred shops and restaurants. Known as "Kyoto’s Kitchen", this lively market specializes in fresh seafood, produce, knives and cookware, and is a great place to find plenty of Kyoto specialties such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood and sushi.

Finally, you’ll relax and unwind at with a Kimono and Tea Ceremony. Don traditional kimonos during this memorable tea ceremony guided by an expert tea master. You’ll gain insights into the history, etiquette, and significance of the ceremony, and participate in making matcha green tea under their guidance.

Finally, you’ll end the day at Nanzen-ji Temple Junsei yu-dofu restaurant. Their standout dishes are boiled "yudofu" tofu and yuba (tofu skin), providing a multisensory feast that. They prioritize creating a peaceful atmosphere to enjoy these delights, whether in the morning or evening. Join them for an extraordinary culinary journey!

*Meals not included in trip fee/ Refer to estimated meal fee 3600~6000JPY per person

*This restaurant operates on a reservation basis. You can cancel your reservation free of charge up to 14 days in advance; otherwise, a cancellation fee will apply.

Accomodation：

- Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto-ekimae

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 9 Anime Adventures (Personal Driver)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Anime Adventures (Personal Driver)

Today you’ll spend the day at Nijigen no Mori, a captivating theme park at the heart of Hyogo Prefectural Awajishima Park on Awaji Island. Immerse yourself in Japanese anime and pop culture with attractions like Naruto and Boruto Shinobi-zato, the whimsical Crayon Shin-chan Adventure Park for younger visitors, and the mesmerizing nighttime multimedia experience of Night Walk Phoenix (based the manga by Ozamu Tezuka). Dive into an epic adventure at Operation Godzilla Intercept, featuring a Godzilla Museum and an exhilarating zipline ride through the mouth of a "life-size" Shin Godzilla.

Accomodation：

- Hotel Wing International Takamatsu

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 10 Art And History In Takamatsu (Personal Driver)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Art And History In Takamatsu (Personal Driver)

You’ll begin the day with a visit to Takamatsu Castle. Also called Tamamo Castle, it was constructed in 1590 alongside the Seto Inland Sea, and still stands out amongst other Japanese castles due to its waterfront location, and boasts saltwater moats directly sourced from the sea.

Then, you’ll spend the rest of the day at Naoshima Island, which is famed for its remarkable outdoor sculptures, distinctive architecture, and contemporary art museums. Key attractions include the "Polka-Dot Pumpkin" statue, the Lee Ufan Art Museum, and the Benesse House Museum.

Accomodation：

- Hotel Wing International Takamatsu

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 11 Day 2: In Takamatsu (Personal Driver)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: In Takamatsu (Personal Driver)

Today, you’ll visit the Chichu Art Museum, dedicated to its goal of being a sanctuary for reimagining the bond between nature and humanity. Delight in installations by acclaimed artists James Turrell and Walter de Maria, alongside masterpieces like Monet’s Water Lilies.

A floating island in sculpture form, Naoshima Pavilion is an artistic addition to Naoshima’s twenty-seven islands. Comprising around 250 stainless steel mesh triangles, it’s a visual marvel that you’ll visit as well.

Then, you’ll visit the historical Okayama Castle, fondly known as the "crow castle" for its striking black façade. Originally constructed in 1597 and destroyed in WWII, it was reconstructed in 1966 and its Tsukimi Yagura (moon viewing tower) still stands as one of the few remaining original buildings. You’ll take a stroll along the Asashi River, which moats the castle, which particularly beautiful during Hamani (peak blooming) season.

Ending the day, you’ll immerse yourself in the beauty of Korakuen, a stunning landscape garden and Okayama’s premier attraction. One of Japan’s Three Great Gardens along with Kanazawa’s Kenrokuen and Mito’s Kairakuen.

Accomodation：

- Miyako City Osaka Hommachi

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 12 Universal Studios (Personal Driver)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Universal Studios (Personal Driver)

You’ll spend the day at Universal Studios Japan. There are eleven different areas where you can experience top class attractions such as Super Nintendo World and its star rides: Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge™ and Yoshi’s Adventure™. There’s even more excitement waiting for you in lands like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, Minion Park™, Jurassic Park™, and others that kids and adults enjoy, or catch shows like the Universal Spectacle Night Parade and Waterworld: A Live Sea War Spectacular.

Accomodation：

- Miyako City Osaka Hommachi

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 13 Osaka’S Best (Personal Driver)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Osaka’S Best (Personal Driver)

Today you’ll visit the historic Osaka Castle Park, behold the castle itself in all its splendor, and get a glimpse into what life was life as a member of the shogunate.

Then, you’ll venture to the Osaka Museum of History, where you can view and engage in a variety of activities that educate on the historic and cultural heritage of Osaka, from ancient times as Japan’s first capital to its contemporary era.

Then you’ll head to Shitenno-ji, one of Japan’s most revered ancient temples. Established over 1400 years ago by Prince Shotoku, a prominent figure in Japanese society who advocated for the adoption of Buddhism, this sacred site stands proudly as the nation’s very first officially recognized religious institution. Despite suffering through multiple fires across the centuries, the temple has been faithfully restored time and again, preserving its traditional sixth-century style.

Then you’ll check out Dotonbori, a well-known shopping and entertainment district, is also famous as a culinary haven. When night falls, it transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle illuminated by countless neon lights and animated signs.

Ending the day, you’ll eat at the Zaou Fishing Restaurant, nestled within the heart of Tokyo’s bustling district of Shinjuku. This innovative establishment invites diners to engage in a novel form of seafood entertainment, where catching one’s supper becomes the main attraction. As soon as visitors step foot inside, they’ll be drawn to the striking, boat-like structure that encircles a picturesque moat full of myriad species of fish. With fishing rods and scrumptious bait at hand, guests are urged to test their luck and reel in delectable treats from the depths below.

*Meals not included

Accomodation：

- Miyako City Osaka Hommachi

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 14 Departure
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Departure

Enjoy your final day in Japan until your guide arrives to take you to the airport for your departing flight.

+11

14 days tour

14 Days Thrilling Food Expedition In Japan (Private Guide &

This tour includes:

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Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip 14 Days Thrilling Food Expedition In Japan (Private Guide &

Arrival In Tokyo

First Day In Tokyo (Personal Driver)

Tokyo’S Culinary And Urban Adventure (Personal Driver)

Tokyo Thrills (Personal Driver)

Scenic Getaways (Personal Driver)

Hakone’S Natural And Nautical Adventures (Personal Driver)

Gion Elegance And Higashiyama Sights (Personal Driver)

Cultural Journey (Personal Driver)

Anime Adventures (Personal Driver)

Art And History In Takamatsu (Personal Driver)

Day 2: In Takamatsu (Personal Driver)

Universal Studios (Personal Driver)

Osaka’S Best (Personal Driver)

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