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.

Accommodation

Day 1-4 Hotel East 21 Tokyo (Okura Hotels & Resorts) or similar- 4 stars Day 5 Fuji View Hotel or similar- 4 stars Day 6-7 Nikko Style Nagoya or similar- 5 stars Day 8 Oyado Koto No Yume or similar- 4 stars Day 9 ONYADO NONO KANAZAWA HOT SPRINGS or similar- 4 stars Day 10-12 Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto-ekimae or similar- 4 stars Day 13 Tokyu Stay Osaka Hommachi or similar- 4 stars Day 14 Mitsui Garden Hotel Hiroshima or similar- 4 stars Day 15-17 Tokyu Stay 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.

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.

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.

Flights

International flights are not included

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：

- Hotel East 21 Tokyo (Okura Hotels & Resorts)
Day 2 Tokyo Cultural And Historical Exploration
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Tokyo Cultural And Historical Exploration

Senso-ji Temple Tokyo`s oldest and most prominent temple. The magestic Senso-Ji Buddhist Temple is almost 1400 years old and is a symbol of Asakusa and the entire city of Tokyo.

This Senso-ji and Asakusa food tour is family-friendly. If you’re a foodie, you should 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).

You’ll ride Tokyo Mizube Line’s comfortable water bus that will allow you to move freely in this thrilling scenic ride.You can choose between the Asakusa to Odaiba route. Some of Tokyo’s top sights including the Tokyo Sky Tree, Tsukiji Bridge, Rainbow Bridge, and more! The cruise can be done in under an hour allowing you to use your free time to explore more of either Asakusa or Odaiba. Odaiba Marine Park&Tokyo’s Rainbow Bridge is a public park that stretches around the Tokyo Bay. The roughly 800m long artificial coastline of Odaiba Beach hosts a number of marine sports for visitors to enjoy, such as windsurfing. The park also has a rocky beach area.Best of all, the Odaiba Marine Park offers you fantastic views of Tokyo’s Rainbow Bridge, which provides the connecting link between mainland Tokyo and the island.The New Transit Yurikamome is a driverless, automated transit service linking Shimbashi to Toyosu, via Odaiba across the Rainbow Bridge in Tokyo. The name Yurikamome comes from the black-headed seagull found in Tokyo Bay, which is the official prefectural bird.

Accomodation：

- Hotel East 21 Tokyo (Okura Hotels & Resorts)

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 3 Tokyo Urban Adventure
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Tokyo Urban Adventure

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.

Meiji Jingu Shrine:Meiji Shrine is a shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken. 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.

Roppongi Hills Observatory Deck（Tokyo City View）:Enjoy picturesque views on the 52nd floor and rooftop views of Tokyo city center from up above!Refresh yourself with a visit to the Observation Deck to see the city from all directions, and spot landmarks like Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, Odaiba, Ebisu Gardens, and more.Capture the panoramic, modern cosmopolitan in broad daylight or mystic night glow.

Accomodation：

- Hotel East 21 Tokyo (Okura Hotels & Resorts)

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 4 Nature And History In Nikko (Personal Guide)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Nature And History In Nikko (Personal Guide)

You’ll explore the charming town of Nikko in Japan’s Tochigi Prefecture with our day tour, offering a rich cultural experience. Begin your journey by visiting the Toshogu Shrine, a splendid Shinto shrine and memorial dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate.

You’ll marvel at the breathtaking Kegon Falls, formed by the rerouting of the Daiya River due to lava flows.

Following this, choose between two delightful options: Chuzenji Lake or the Nikko Hot Spring. Then, at Chuzenji Lake, you’ll take in the pristine waters and enjoy a captivating view of Mount Nantai. Alternatively, indulge in the relaxing atmosphere of the Nikko Hot Spring.

Accomodation：

- Hotel East 21 Tokyo (Okura Hotels & Resorts)

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 5 Lakes And Caves Around Mt. Fuji (Personal Guide)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Lakes And Caves Around Mt. Fuji (Personal Guide)

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.

You’ll also 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.

You’ll end the day 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 Scenic Wonders (Personal Guide)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Hakone’S Scenic Wonders (Personal Guide)

Includes round-trip transfer between hotel and station via private car

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, 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!

Accomodation：

- Nikko Style Nagoya

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 7 Heritage And Innovation In Nagoya
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Heritage And Innovation In Nagoya

Today you’ll take a step back in time at Nagoya Castle, one of Japan’s most revered historical landmarks. Built in 1615 by the legendary Shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu, this magnificent fortress has stood the test of time and remains a true gem in Japanese culture. With its vast floorspace, Nagoya Castle boasts the largest tower keep in all of Japan, making it not only a significant architectural feat but also a national treasure. Adjacent to the castle stands the equally fascinating Hommaru Palace, another designated National Historic Site that provides insight into the opulent lifestyle led by feudal lords during ancient times.

You’ll spend the rest of the day at Ghibli Park, a theme park dedicated to the popular animated films from Studio Ghibli. The first phase opened in November 2022 just outside Nagoya, with more opening in 2024. Unlike other theme parks, Ghibli Park is more focused on offering guests a immersive and environment centric experience where they’re able to delve into the fantasy worlds of Ghibli films.

Accomodation：

- Nikko Style Nagoya

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 8 Tradition And Charm In Takayama (Personal Guide)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Tradition And Charm In Takayama (Personal Guide)

Takayama Jinya served as the local government office headed by the officials dispatched from Edo (present day Tokyo). The building complex was in official use until 1969 and is now open to the public as a museum.

Then, you’ll embark on a journey to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, tucked away in the mountains between Gifu and Toyama Prefectures. Marvel at the traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some having stood proudly for over 250 years. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes that make Shirakawa-go a must-visit destination.

Ending your day, you’ll visit the Takayama Jinya which was once a government office from Edo (present-day Tokyo). Now a museum, it served officials until 1969, providing visitors a glimpse into governance during the historical Edo period.

Accomodation：

- Ryokan Oyado Koto No Yume

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 9 Kanazawa’S Cultural Treasures (Personal Guide)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Kanazawa’S Cultural Treasures (Personal Guide)

Today you’ll explore the culturally rich town of Kanazawa with visits to Nagamachi Samurai, Kenrokuen, Higashi Chaya District, and the Geisha District. From vibrant Kutani pottery to Kanazawa lacquerware and unique craftsmanship, you’ll delve into the city’s artistic heritage as well. Witness the beauty of hand-painted Kaga Yuzen silk, Kaga elephant inlay, and Kaga embroidery at Kanazawa Shrine, blending tradition seamlessly with the modern charm of the city.

Accomodation：

- ONYADO NONO KANAZAWA HOT SPRINGS

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 10 Zen And Tradition In Kyoto (Personal Guide)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Zen And Tradition In Kyoto (Personal Guide)

Shinkansen (Bullet Train) trip from Kanazawa to Kyoto（approx. 2hrs 26min）

You’ll be accompanied by an English-Speaking tour guide along with a personal driver & vehicle.

Accomodation：

- Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto-ekimae

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 11 Kyoto’S Natural And Cultural Gems (Personal Guide)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Kyoto’S Natural And Cultural Gems (Personal Guide)

Kodaiji is an outstanding temple in Kyoto’s Higashiyama District. It was established in 1606 in memory of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan’s greatest historical figures, by Hideyoshi’s wife Nene who is also enshrined at the temple.Its main buildings were constructed in the lavish style of the era of Japan’s unification with the financial support of Hideyoshi’s successor Tokugawa Ieyasu.They feature richly decorated interiors and are surrounded by beautiful Zen gardens.Located in Higashiyama Ward, along one of the main tourist corridors in eastern Kyoto, Nene no Michi retains the look of a Kyoto that for the most part no longer exists.The street scape of Nene no Michi is unique in that it adheres to Kyoto building codes: there are no garish signs and telephone wires have been buried.In Kyoto, that makes it both beautiful and very unusual.Yasaka Shrine is well known for its summer festival, the Gion Matsuri, which is celebrated every July.Arguably the most famous festival in the whole country, the Gion Matsuri dates back over a thousand years and involves a procession with massive floats and hundreds of participants.Hanamikoji Geisha District In The Evening The best place to see geisha in Kyoto is Hanami-koji on the south side of Shijo-dori.A stroll through in the evening will usually yield at least one sighting.Japanese traditional culture performance garden gion kobu kaburenjo theater in the small theater, maiko in kyomai, including Kyogen (farce played during a noh cycle), bugaku, sado, kado sokyoku (koto music), bunraku and amongst others You can watch Japan’s world-class traditional culture and performing arts in a one-hour digest.which offer a more comfortable viewing experience and come with a digital tablet that provides detailed information and translations throughout the performance.

Accomodation：

- Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto-ekimae

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 12 Kansai Cultural Highlights (Private Guide)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Kansai Cultural Highlights (Private Guide)

Unlike many sightseeing locations, Higashi Honganji Temple is still an influential place in modern religious practices, situated just east of another spot of interest, Nishi Honganji Temple. They functioned as a single temple complex, in fact, until shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu split them into east (higashi) and west (nishi) because he was afraid that as a single entity, their political power would grow too great.

Sanjusangendo 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. wooden statue of a 1000-armed Kannon (Senju Kannon) that is flanked on each side by 500 statues of human sized 1000-armed Kannon standing in ten rows. Together they make for an awesome sight.

Nishiki Market is a narrow, five block long shopping street lined by more than one hundred shops and restaurants. Known as "Kyoto’s Kitchen", this lively retail market specializes in all things food related, like fresh seafood, produce, knives and cookware, and is a great place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood and sushi.

Kyoto Tea Ceremony in Japan is one of the best and memorable experiences you can have! Kimonos would normally be worn during traditional tea ceremonies.Our expert tea master and host, and friendly staff will demonstrate the process during the tea ceremony while explaining the significance behind it the steps and the tools. You will get to learn about tea ceremony history, Kyoto, and tea ceremony etiquette.During the tea ceremony, you will not only observe how to make matcha green tea but you will also be guided on the process of making your own by the tea master.

Accomodation：

- Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto-ekimae

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 13 Hiroshima’S Memorials (Personal Guide)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Hiroshima’S Memorials (Personal Guide)

Today you’ll have a English-Speaking tour guide to accompany you on a journey to Hiroshima via a one-way bullet train and public transportation.

You’ll then visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, the last standing remnant of the original Hiroshima when it was bombed.

Then, you’ll take a stroll around Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park (Heiwa Kinen Kōen) nearby, one of the most prominent attractions in the city, which covers over 120,000 square meters of land. Its trees, lawns, and walking paths are in stark contrast to the surrounding downtown area.

Then, you’ll end the day at Hiroshima Castle. Also known as Carp Castle, was originally built in the 1590s before then being destroyed in the bombing. It was rebuilt in 1958 and since then has served as a museum of Hiroshima’s history before World War II.

Accomodation：

- Tokyu Stay Osaka Hommachi

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 14 Majestic Miyajima Island (Personal Guide)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Majestic Miyajima Island (Personal Guide)

You will be accompanied today by a tour guide to visit Miyajima and back to Osaka via bullet train & public transportation.

Itsukushima, also known as Miyajima, is an island filled with grand forests, temples and wild deer, make for a beloved tourist spot. In the day the deer mingle with the tourists and sleep along the walking paths in the evening. Unfortunately, unlike at Nara, the deer on Miyajima are not allowed to be fed.

The centuries-old Itsukushima Shrine (Itsukushima Jinja) is the source of both the island’s fame and its name: Miyajima literally means "shrine island" in Japanese. The shrine is known worldwide for its iconic "floating" torii gate, as the gate looks as if it floats when the tide comes in and the waters completely cover the ground.

Accomodation：

- Mitsui Garden Hotel Hiroshima

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 15 Osaka Urban Adventure (Personal Guide)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Osaka Urban Adventure (Personal Guide)

Today you’ll visit the historic and splendorous Osaka Castle Park, getting a firsthand glimpse into what life was like as a member of the shogunate class.

In Asakusa, you’ll engage in a ninja themed experience, guided by a friendly instructor who’ll imparting skills such as Shuriken throwing and more!

You’ll then check out the Donki Ferris wheel, with its one-of-a-kind shape, located outside the renowned store Don Quixote, affectionately known as “Donki.”

You’ll end the day at Dotonbori, a well-known shopping, entertainment district, and culinary haven. When night falls, it transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle illuminated by countless neon lights and animated signs. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor over 10 diverse and delectable flavors, including Takoyaki, Shioyaki, Kobe Beef, Okonomiyaki, Yakitori, Taiyaki, Yakisoba, Ikayaki, and more!

Accomodation：

- Tokyu Stay Osaka Hommachi

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 16 Exploring Koyasan’S Spiritual Wonders
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Exploring Koyasan’S Spiritual Wonders

Osaka Castle:The construction of Osaka Castle (大阪城, Ōsakajō) started in 1583 on the former site of the Ishiyama Honganji Temple, which had been destroyed by Oda Nobunaga thirteen years earlier. Toyotomi Hideyoshi intended the castle to become the center of a new, unified Japan under Toyotomi rule. It was the largest castle at the time.

Osaka Museum of History:The Osaka Museum of History aims to develop a variety of activities based on the historic and cultural heritage cultivated in this region for people in Osaka as well as for all visitors. In doing so, we will take advantage of our experience over the past five years to present a broader point of view on history in our activities. Our programs will aim to develop a deeper understanding of the city’s history and to think about our present society and culture together with our visitors, while cherishing the “dialogue with history”, in order to help create a better future.

Umeda Sky Building:The ultramodern Umeda Sky Building is a landmark of Osaka’s Kita Ward. It sprouted up at the end of Japan’s economic bubble in 1993. Head to the uniquely designed observation deck for a picture-perfect view of the expansive cityscape.

Dotonbori:Dotonbori is a popular shopping and entertainment district and is also known as a food destination. At night it is lit by hundreds of neon lights and mechanized signs. Get the chance to try more than 10 different amazing tastes! Takoyaki, Shioyaki, Kobe Beef, Okonomiyaki, Yakitori, Taiyaki, Yakisoba, Ikayaki, etc."

Street food experience:Japanese Street Food Tour with private English-speaking tour guide--Get the chance to try more than 10 different amazing tastes! Takoyaki, Shioyaki, Kobe Beef, Okonomiyaki, Yakitori, Taiyaki, Yakisoba, Ikayaki, etc.

Accomodation：

- Tokyu Stay Osaka Hommachi

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 17 Free Time
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Free Time

Explore Osaka your leisure, or make your own arrangements.

Accomodation：

- Tokyu Stay Osaka Hommachi

Meals Included：

- Breakfast
Day 18 Departure
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Departure

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

+15

18 days tour

18 Days Japan Cultural Immersion Tour (Private Guide & Drive

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip 18 Days Japan Cultural Immersion Tour (Private Guide & Drive

Arrival In Tokyo

Tokyo Cultural And Historical Exploration

Tokyo Urban Adventure

Nature And History In Nikko (Personal Guide)

Lakes And Caves Around Mt. Fuji (Personal Guide)

Hakone’S Scenic Wonders (Personal Guide)

Heritage And Innovation In Nagoya

Tradition And Charm In Takayama (Personal Guide)

Kanazawa’S Cultural Treasures (Personal Guide)

Zen And Tradition In Kyoto (Personal Guide)

Kyoto’S Natural And Cultural Gems (Personal Guide)

Kansai Cultural Highlights (Private Guide)

Hiroshima’S Memorials (Personal Guide)

Majestic Miyajima Island (Personal Guide)

Osaka Urban Adventure (Personal Guide)

Exploring Koyasan’S Spiritual Wonders

Free Time

Departure

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