Your Itinerary In Detail
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This itinerary has been tailor-made for you. No two itineraries are the same and we are always able to make changes if something isn't quite right.
Friday 12th July 2024
Flight on AC 575
Flight on AC 575
| From | To |
|---|---|
| Denver International Airport (DEN) |
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) |
| Departs | Arrives |
| 12-Jul-2024 09:45:00 | 12-Jul-2024 11:49:00 |
| Airline | Cabin |
| Air Canada | Economy |
Flight on AC 3
Flight on AC 3
| From | To |
|---|---|
| Vancouver International Airport (YVR) |
Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT) |
| Departs | Arrives |
| 12-Jul-2024 12:55:00 | 13-Jul-2024 14:50:00 |
| Airline | Cabin |
| Air Canada | Economy |
Saturday 13th July 2024
Welcome to Tokyo
Welcome to Tokyo
It’s almost impossible to keep up with Tokyo’s progress: a city that is ever building, updating and innovating. As the neon façades grow higher, the temples and parks are carefully respected, maintaining quiet refuges within the city. The latest trends and fashions can be found in quirky cafés and pop-culture clothing, while centuries-old rituals are still valued in the training halls of the sumo and under the tiered roofs of Tokyo’s tranquil shrines.
Referred to locally as ‘the city within the city’, Shinjuku is Tokyo’s buzzing commerce hub, an ideal spot to head to after a day’s exploration. Skyscrapers, shopping malls and contemporary hotels are crammed in among narrow streets lined with tiny eateries, karaoke bars and red-light establishments.
Evening is when Shinjuku becomes particularly animated, pulsing with flashing neon signs and music. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building towers over it all. From the observatory deck on the 45th floor, you can see right across the district. Back on the ground, there are fashionable wine bars to try, or head to Golden Gai (Golden District) for its compact collection of bars and restaurants.
Private Transfer from NRT Keio Plaza
Private Transfer from NRT Keio Plaza
On arrival into Tokyo Narita Airport, you will be met by a fabulous English-speaking Out Of Office representative and privately transferred to the Keio Plaza, perfectly located to enjoy the best that Tokyo has to offer.
Keio Plaza for 3 nights
Keio Plaza for 3 nights
The Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo ideally located to explore city of Tokyo. Only minutes away from the most popular shopping and entertainment spots, this luxury hotel provides stunning views over the city center. The Keio Plaza Hotel offers a wide variety of home-away-from-home hospitality, with 1,435 guest rooms to choose from to accommodate your every need.
Your room: Premier Grand Twin - Club Floor
Enjoy ultimate comfort and relaxation in these large rooms, ideally located on the Club Floor. Rooms benefit from two sumptuous queen beds, as well as a luxurious bathroom with amenities.
Sunday 14th July 2024
Full Day Tokyo Highlights Tour
Full Day Tokyo Highlights Tour
Today you will enjoy a spectacular full-day tour of Tokyo's highlights with one of our local expert guides.
First up is Asakusa, Tokyo’s old town where you can soak in the atmosphere of traditional Tokyo. Visit Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest temple and wander down Nakamise, a shopping street that has been providing temple visitors with a variety of traditional, local snacks and tourist souvenirs for centuries. Next, travel down the Sumidagawa River on Tokyo's Water Bus, a unique means of transportation. After enjoying Tokyo’s bridges and skyline from the water, visit Hamarikyu Garden, an Edo-period Japanese garden surrounded by the Shiodome district’s futuristic skyscrapers, a great example of how Japan is the land of contrasts. Here, you will stop for a cup of steaming matcha and Japanese sweets in a tea house on a small island in the park’s lake.
Later, enjoy a visit to Meiji Shrine, a shrine dedicated to the deified spirit of Emperor Meiji and a popular place for traditional Japanese weddings. Finally, as the sunlight fades, take a walk down the flashy Omotesando shopping street, a broad tree-lined avenue home to flagship stores of some of the world’s top fashion brands as well as some fantastic modern architecture.
* Today's tour os via public transport.
Monday 15th July 2024
Half Day Tokyo Pop Culture Tour
Half Day Tokyo Pop Culture Tour
Today you will explore Tokyo with one of our local expert guides, focusing on the city's incredible pop-culture sights.
Experience 3 of Tokyo’s main hubs for youth fashion and pop culture on this tour. First, visit Tokyo’s main centre for youth fashion and culture, Shibuya where many of Japan's fashion and entertainment trends are born. It is also home to the famous 5-way ‘scramble crossing’. Next is Harajuku and the quirky Cat Street. Whether you are goth, punk or anything in between, there is a shop in Harajuku that caters to you.
Also known as Electric Town, Akihabara was originally famous for its many electronics shops. In more recent years, however, Akihabara has gained recognition as the center of Japan's otaku (diehard fan) culture, and many shops and establishments devoted to anime and manga are now dispersed among the electronic stores in the district.
* Today's tour os via public transport.
Tuesday 16th July 2024
Bullet Train from Tokyo to Kyoto
Bullet Train from Tokyo to Kyoto
This morning you will make your own way to Tokyo Station, ready to catch the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto. I have included Standard Class seats, but we can upgrade to Green Class if you'd like.
The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, covering a distance of around 513 kilometers. Passengers can enjoy the scenic views of Japan's countryside while traveling at speeds of up to 320 kilometers per hour. With its punctuality and convenience, the bullet train offers a seamless and enjoyable travel experience between Tokyo and Kyoto.
On the other side, you will make your own way to your hotel, ready for an afternoon at leisure.
Welcome to Kyoto
Welcome to Kyoto
Kyoto is old Japan writ large: atmospheric temples, sublime gardens, traditional teahouses and geisha scurrying to secret liaisons.
Kyoto served as Japan's capital and the emperor's residence from 794 until 1868. It is one of the country's ten largest cities with a population of 1.5 million people and a modern face.
Over the centuries, Kyoto was destroyed by many wars and fires, but due to its exceptional historic value, the city was dropped from the list of target cities for the atomic bomb and escaped destruction during World War II. Countless temples, shrines and other historically priceless structures survive in the city today.
Wednesday 17th July 2024
Half Day Kyoto Highlights
Half Day Kyoto Highlights
Today you will enjoy a full day tour of Kyoto.
From dramatic power struggles that led to almost 200 years of civil war, to the oldest geisha district and its beautifully preserved teahouses, northern Kyoto is rich in history and spectacular architecture. Although this region is home to the most popular tourist site in Kyoto, The Golden Pavilion, many visitors overlook the surrounding neighbourhoods despite their remarkable charm and importance to the city.
Together with a knowledgeable guide you’ll navigate cobblestone streets in neighbourhoods that were established over one thousand years ago. You’ll find that Kyoto is not only a city steeped in history, but full of modern monks, artisans, baristas, and college students still working towards its lively future. Kinkakuji Temple draws millions of visitors each year, and you will quickly understand why this jewel in the northern hills of Kyoto is one of the country’s most visited sites. A far cry from Buddhist austerity, it is covered in real gold leaf, photogenically stunning at any time of year the no matter the weather. The story of the warlord who had this pavilion built will surely capture your mind, too.
Next, stop by Ryoanji Temple, which was built on the grounds of a villa of the Fujiwara clan in the Heian period (794-1185). The temple is home to one of the most famous zen rock gardens in Japan.
Finally, visit Kitano-Temanngu, a remarkable shrine to scholarship built to appease the spirit of an angry ghost. Buy a lucky pencil as local students do for their college entry exams, and then marvel at the surrounding entertainment district. After a fire in 1444, a large section of the temple was rebuilt, and the remaining timber was used to construct 7 tea houses that became the first ‘flower town’ or geisha district. in Kyoto. Kamishichiken is every bit as charming as its more touristy cousin Gion, with the bonus of fewer crowds and excellent photo opportunities.
After lunch, head to the Arashiyama district, a pleasant area in the western outskirts of Kyoto. Arashiyama has been a popular destination since the Heian period (794-1185), when nobles would relax in its natural settings. Take a walk through the famous bamboo groves, which are particularly attractive when a light wind makes the tall bamboo stalks sway gently back and forth. The bamboo has been used at local workshops for centuries to create various products, such as baskets, cups, boxes and mats.
Nonomiya Shrine is a Shinto shrine where, in ancient times, unmarried imperial princesses would stay for a year or more to purify themselves. Okochi Mountain Villa is the former villa of the popular samurai film star Okochi Denjiro (1896-1962), and consists of several beautiful gardens and buildings, including living quarters, tea houses and a zen meditation hall. Here you will enjoy some matcha tea and a light snack. Tenryuji is ranked among Kyoto's five great Zen temples and the largest and most impressive temple in Arashiyama. Founded in 1339 at the beginning of the Muromachi Period (1338-1573), the temple is one of Kyoto's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In addition to its temple buildings, there are attractive gardens with walking paths.
* Today's tour is by public transport.
Hotel Kanra Kyoto for 2 nights
Hotel Kanra Kyoto for 2 nights
Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, Hotel Kanra is a captivating blend of contemporary luxury and traditional Japanese charm. The moment you step into the lobby, you are greeted by a refined atmosphere that seamlessly fuses British-inspired design elements with the time-honoured aesthetics of Kyoto. The hotel's commitment to providing an authentic experience is evident in every detail, from the meticulously crafted furnishings to the warm and attentive service.
Hotel Kanra offers a sanctuary of sophistication with its well-appointed rooms, where guests can unwind amidst a harmonious fusion of comfort and elegance. The unique combination of traditional tatami mat flooring and modern amenities creates a distinctive atmosphere that captures the essence of Kyoto's cultural heritage. Indulge in exquisite dining at the hotel's restaurant, where a culinary journey awaits, showcasing the finest local and international flavours. Whether you're exploring the historic sites of Kyoto or simply seeking a tranquil retreat, Hotel Kanra promises an enchanting stay that seamlessly marries modern luxury with the timeless charm of this cultural haven.
Your room: Twin Room - Annex Building
Discover unparalleled comfort in the heart of Kyoto with the Twin Room in the Annex Building at Hotel Kanra. This elegantly appointed room is a testament to the seamless integration of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern luxury. Immerse yourself in the serene ambience, enhanced by the use of authentic British-inspired furnishings that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto. The room features two inviting twin beds, dressed in exquisite linens, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep for our discerning guests.
As you enter the Twin Room, the meticulous attention to detail becomes evident, with every element carefully curated to create a harmonious and inviting space. The large windows offer enchanting views of Kyoto's historic surroundings, providing a picturesque backdrop to your stay. The ensuite bathroom, equipped with indulgent amenities, promises a spa-like experience, adding an extra layer of relaxation to your time at Hotel Kanra. Whether you're exploring the city's cultural gems or unwinding in the comfort of your room, the Twin Room in the Annex Building offers a perfect blend of sophistication and tranquillity for an unforgettable stay in Kyoto.
Thursday 18th July 2024
Full Day Tour to Nara
Full Day Tour to Nara
Transfer from your hotel to Nara together with a local guide.
During the 8th century, Nara was Japan’s capital for 74 years, and many important religious sites still remain. First, you will visit the beautiful Isuien Garden, divided into two distinct areas that were built two centuries apart. The garden is a striking example of Japanese horticulture, borrowing the water from the Yoshikigawa River and the mountain backdrop of Mt. Wakakusayama to create its striking appearance.
Next, wander through Nara Park, also known as the ‘deer park’ due to the more than 1,000 free- roaming deer living there. Within Nara Park is Todaiji Temple, the world’s largest wooden building and home to Japan’s biggest Buddha statue. Next stop is Nara’s most celebrated shrine, Kasuga Taisha, established in 768 AD and famous for its hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns donated by worshippers.
To contrast today’s many temples and shrines, end your day with a stroll around Naramachi, a charming historic merchant district showcasing some exceptionally well-preserved ‘machiya’ town houses. If you have time to spare, some of these beautiful houses can be entered for free and is a chance to get a peek at traditional residential architecture.
Your guide will accompany you back to Kyoto at the end of the day.
Friday 19th July 2024
Bullet Train from Kyoto to Osaka
Bullet Train from Kyoto to Osaka
This morning you will make your own way to Kyoto Station, ready to catch the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Osaka. I have included Standard Class seats, but we can upgrade to Green Class if you'd like.
On the other side, you will make your own way to your hotel, ready for an afternoon at leisure.
Welcome to Osaka
Welcome to Osaka
If Kyoto was the city of the courtly nobility and Tokyo the city of the samurai, then Osaka was the city of the merchant class. Osakans take pride in shedding the conservatism found elsewhere in Japan, and this spirited city – Japan's third-largest – is a place where people are a bit brasher, and interactions are peppered with playful jabs.
It's not a pretty city in the conventional sense – though it does have a lovely river cutting through the center – but it packs more color than most; its acres of concrete are cloaked in dazzling neon billboards. The best way to get under its skin is by chowing down on local cuisine and enjoying a drink at an izakaya (pub restaurant) alongside good-humored locals. The city's unofficial slogan is kuidaore ('eat until you drop'), and it seems that everyone is always out for a good meal – and a good time.
InterContinental Osaka
InterContinental Osaka
InterContinental Osaka offers contemporary glamour and magnificent panoramas in an enviable location close to the city’s main sights. Immediate proximity to Osaka Station and a connection with the high-end shopping mall, Grand Front Osaka, makes InterContinental Osaka an ideal base to explore the city of Osaka. You can relax with a soothing massage in the spa, unwind in the traditional Japanese bathhouse and enjoy cocktails with a view at fashionable Bar Adee. The elegant guest rooms are notably spacious, and the Michelin-starred Pierre restaurant is perfect for a celebratory dinner.
Saturday 20th July 2024
Half Day Osaka Highlights
Half Day Osaka Highlights
Your guide will meet you at your hotel to take you on a half-
day tour of Osaka.
Start your day visiting the magnificent Osaka Castle. The castle is one of Japan's most famous and played a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century. It has been completely rebuilt, faithful to its original appearance, after its destruction during World War II. The inside is modern, functional space serving as a museum showcasing the history of Osaka.
Later, walk through Dotonbori, a popular shopping and entertainment district, which is also known as a food destination. At night, it is lit up by hundreds of neon signs, including the famous Glico Running Man sign and the mechanic Kani Doraku crab sign.
Osaka is one of Japan’s most vibrant cities, and especially known for its lively and social people – and its food. Your guide will introduce you to the wonders of Osaka’s casual cuisine and the culture of ‘kuidaore’ – literally, ‘eating oneself to bankruptcy’!
Your guide will take you to either Shinsekai or Dotonbori, depending on which is closer to your hotel. Both are famous for their pedestrian only streets lined with restaurants and known as foodie paradises. This is where Kansai people come to celebrate! Colourful hole-in-the wall takoyaki stands and ramen bars rub shoulders with upscale eateries serving the finest wagyu beef, and everywhere people of all ages are out to enjoy the culinary pleasures of the nation’s soul food kitchen.
You’ll have the chance to pop into shops and sample a variety of local foods, including the famous and ubiquitous takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (a type of savoury pancake) and kushikatsu (skewered meats and vegetables). The cost of these foodstuffs – and one drink per person – is included. If you prefer, your guide can also take you to a variety of other establishments, from ramen stands to izakaya bars.
Sunday 21st July 2024
Private Transfer from InterContinental to ITM
Private Transfer from InterContinental to ITM
Today you will be picked up and privately transferred to Osaka Airport, in time for your return flight to the USA.
Flight on AC 576
Flight on AC 576
| From | To |
|---|---|
| Vancouver International Airport (YVR) |
Denver International Airport (DEN) |
| Departs | Arrives |
| 21-Jul-2024 14:00:00 | 21-Jul-2024 17:46:00 |
| Airline | Cabin |
| Air Canada | Economy |
Flight on AC 24
Flight on AC 24
| From | To |
|---|---|
| Kansai International Airport (KIX) |
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) |
| Departs | Arrives |
| 21-Jul-2024 18:00:00 | 21-Jul-2024 11:25:00 |
| Airline | Cabin |
| Air Canada | Economy |
What's Included
Your itinerary includes
Important Information
Travel Advice
It is important to seek independent and up-to-date advice when travelling to any foreign country. Many of our customers ask us to keep them up-to-date on the existing legal position regarding LGBT rights in the country to which they are travelling. You can find up-to-date details on our website under the country which you are travelling to. They are provided as a guide only and laws can change frequently. You should seek advice from the relevant authorities and embassies before travel (if applicable).
Travel Insurance and Terms and Conditions
It is a condition of booking with Out Of Office that you have adequate insurance cover for your trip at the time of booking. Please also ensure you have referred to our terms and conditions which can be found at www.outofoffice.com/terms-and-conditions. Please note that as each booking is tailor-made for you we only confirm the itinerary once we have received a deposit. There is a small chance that availability on some items quoted may change. If this is the case we will book similar accommodation and let you know.