Best of Japan

Experience the best of Japan on this 7-day locally-hosted train vacation to Tokyo and Kyoto.

Tour Description

Experience the best of Japan on this 7-day locally-hosted train vacation to Tokyo and Kyoto. Beginning in the bustling city of Tokyo, visit popular sights including the Meiji Shrine and the Asakusa Kannon Temple. Continue by train to Kyoto for visits to the stunning Temple of the Gold Pavilion and more! This locally-hosted vacation provides comprehensive sightseeing in each city as well as ample time at leisure to explore on your own. And best of all, travelers enjoy the services of a dedicated local host in each city, available to provide recommendations and assist with reservations where needed.

Tour Photos

Highlights and Inclusions

• High-speed train from Tokyo to Kyoto; transfers to/from train stations
• Hotel accommodations for 6 nights
• 8 Meals including daily breakfast and 2 lunches
• Sightseeing per itinerary
• Services of a local host in each city
• City maps

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive in Tokyo, Japan
Welcome to Japan! Your hotel room is available for mid-afternoon check-in.

Day 2 - Tokyo
Today, hop on Tokyo’s subway system for private guided sightseeing tour of the city. First, stop at Meiji Shrine, a magnificent 20th century Shinto monument set in a man-made forest. Next, stop at the Samurai Museum to learn about their history and see authentic period-specific swords, armor, and helmets (kabuto). You will even have the chance to have your picture taken wearing a helmet and armor! You’ll also stop at Shinjuku Gyoen Garden which dates back to the early 1600s. Lastly, visit bustling Nakamise Shopping Arcade and Asakusa Kannon Temple, the oldest of their kind in Tokyo. The remainder of the day is at your leisure for independent activities. (B, L)

Note: Shinjuku Gyoen Garden is closed on Mondays and some holidays. In these instances, Koishikawa Gardens will be visited.

Day 3 - Tokyo
Today, enjoy a full day at your leisure. Your Local Host will have suggestions.(B)

Day 4 - Tokyo
Today, transfer to the train station and board your Bullet Train to historic Kyoto, former capital of Japan. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure. (B)

Day 5 - Kyoto
This morning, your private guided sightseeing starts at stunning Kinkakuji, Temple of the Gold Pavilion, covered with shimmering gold leaf. Next, take a walking tour through Gion, Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, which is also known for its high concentration of machiya-style merchant houses. Continue on to Sanjusangendo Temple, famous for 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Flanking the main statue are 1,000 life-sized statues, covered in gold leaf, with 40 arms said to have the power to save 25 worlds. Finish with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for the thousands of brightly colored Torii Gates. (B, L)

Day 6 - Kyoto
A full day at leisure to explore more of Kyoto’s historic temples and shrines. (B)

Day 7 - Kyoto-Osaka
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. Homebound flights from Kansai International Airport in Osaka should not be booked prior to 11 am. (B)

Dates & Prices

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