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.
- Saturday 12th October 2024
- Sunday 13th October 2024
- Monday 14th October 2024
- Tuesday 15th October 2024
- Wednesday 16th October 2024
- Thursday 17th October 2024
- Friday 18th October 2024
- Saturday 19th October 2024
- Sunday 20th October 2024
- Monday 21st October 2024
- Tuesday 22nd October 2024
- Wednesday 23rd October 2024
Saturday 12th October 2024
Welcome to Tokyo!
Welcome to Tokyo!
One of the world’s most cutting-edge capitals, Tokyo is a city of contrasts. Famous for its sprawling neon-lit landscape it is also home to expansive parkland, peaceful shrines and temples, and lovingly tended gardens.
On the surface, Tokyo is a mix of digital trends and conspicuous consumption, but dig deeper and you will find a city rooted deeply in the traditional culture. Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples stand close to skyscrapers as a reminder of a more contemplative time.
At the heart of the hyperactive centre lies the serene Imperial Palace, the home of the ruling emperor that provides a tangible link to the city’s historical past. Behind the shopping, entertainment, and commercial emporia you will find quaint wooden houses, private gardens with meticulously clipped bonsai trees and the calm of the Hamarikyu Gardens.
Day 1: Tokyo
Day 1: Tokyo
Upon arrival at the airport, an English-speaking assistant will greet you in the arrival lobby.
A private transfer will then take you to your accommodation.
Please note that the car can accommodate a maximum of 2 large suitcases, so please inform us in advance if you have more.
Hotel Niwa Tokyo for 3 nights
Hotel Niwa Tokyo for 3 nights
Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, the exquisite Hotel Niwa Tokyo offers a harmonious blend of contemporary luxury and Japanese tradition. Boasting a serene ambiance, the hotel is a haven for discerning travellers seeking an authentic yet indulgent experience. The elegantly designed rooms showcase a meticulous attention to detail, with subtle nods to Japanese aesthetics. Guests can unwind in the lush Niwa Garden, a tranquil oasis in the midst of the bustling metropolis, providing a picturesque backdrop for relaxation.
Indulge your senses in the culinary delights of the hotel's restaurants, where a symphony of flavours awaits. From traditional Japanese cuisine to international fare, each dish is a masterpiece crafted with precision and flair. The attentive staff at Hotel Niwa Tokyo ensures a seamless stay, catering to every need with warmth and professionalism. Whether exploring the vibrant city or enjoying the serenity within the hotel's embrace, this luxurious retreat promises an unforgettable experience for the sophisticated traveller.
Your room: Standard Double
Step into the epitome of refined comfort with the Standard Double room at Hotel Niwa Tokyo. Elegantly appointed with a blend of contemporary design and Japanese aesthetic, this haven offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of bustling Tokyo. The room welcomes you with a soothing colour palette, plush furnishings, and subtle touches of traditional Japanese artistry, creating an atmosphere of understated luxury.
The spacious Standard Double room is thoughtfully curated for a restful stay, featuring a sumptuous double bed adorned with premium linens for a blissful night's sleep. The large windows allow natural light to illuminate the room, offering glimpses of the vibrant cityscape or the serene Niwa Garden. Immerse yourself in modern conveniences, from the well-appointed en-suite bathroom to the state-of-the-art amenities that cater to both relaxation and productivity. Whether winding down after a day of exploration or preparing for another adventure in Tokyo, the Standard Double room at Hotel Niwa Tokyo ensures a perfect balance of comfort and sophistication.
Sunday 13th October 2024
Day 2: Tokyo - Half Day Highlights Tour & Private Evening Local Izakaya Food Tour
Day 2: Tokyo - Half Day Highlights Tour & Private Evening Local Izakaya Food Tour
Take a half-day tour of this fascinating city with a local guide. The day begins with a visit to 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.
Travel across town to Omotesando; after exploring the ritzy flagship stores and spectacular architecture on the main boulevard, you will walk up to Meiji Shrine, a shrine dedicated to the deified spirit of Emperor Meiji and a popular place for traditional Japanese weddings.
Take a stroll around one of Tokyo’s trendiest areas, conveniently located only minutes away from Shibuya. A popular place for locals in their mid-twenties to early forties to grab a drink and a bite, this area boasts some of Tokyo’s best casual eateries.
On this tour, you will visit three different restaurants, so-called ‘akachochin’ or izakaya (Japanese casual pub), and get to experience some of the authentic food locals enjoy. These are friendly places where interaction between patrons (facilitated by your bilingual guide) often takes place.
You will get the chance to try:
- Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers)
- Sashimi
- Okonomiyaki (savoury pancake)
- Other typical izakaya dishes
- Typical Japanese sweets
- Sake tasting and 3 drinks are included
Meals included: Breakfast, light meal, 3 drinks
Monday 14th October 2024
Day 3: Tokyo
Day 3: Tokyo
Today, take the opportunity to explore Tokyo at your own pace. Enjoy a leisurely day, discovering the city's diverse neighborhoods and experiencing the unique blend of tradition and modernity that defines Tokyo. Whether you choose to wander through historic gardens, explore lively food markets, or dive into the cultural districts, this is your day to create an itinerary that suits your interests.
Meals included: Breakfast
Tuesday 15th October 2024
Welcome to Hakone!
Welcome to Hakone!
Hakone is a natural nature wonderland and is famous for its hot springs, outdoor pursuits and the view of the nearby Mount Fuji. It is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is less than 100-km from Tokyo, thereby providing a popular weekend destination for city residents keen to escape the frenzy of the capital. Beautiful Hakone has about everything a vacationer could wish for. Besides the towering mountains, lakes and views of Mount Fuji, it is also blessed with interesting historical sites.
Day 4: Tokyo to Hakone
Day 4: Tokyo to Hakone
Today, leave Tokyo behind as you journey to Hakone, one of the gateways to Mt. Fuji and the surrounding national park. Your local guide for the day will accompany you on the journey. Your tour will end at your Hakone accommodation.
Your guide will assist you with forwarding your luggage to your destination after Hakone (included in today's cost). Then, you will travel together to Hakone and will explore the Hakone ‘loop’. The loop can be done in clockwise or anti-clockwise order and your guide will decide the best course depending on where you are staying tonight, the season and how busy Hakone is when you visit. The loop typically includes a journey up to the Gora area to ride the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani volcano crater, where you can try the tasty black eggs boiled in water bubbling up from within the volcano itself. Also included in the day's arrangements is a cruise across Lake Ashi. On clear weather days you may be able to see Mt. Fuji peeping over the mountain range.
Your guide will take you to your accommodation after the tour and will help you check in before leaving you to enjoy the facilities at your ryokan or hotel.
On this tour you might be lucky to catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji, but please note that she is a notoriously shy mountain and the weather needs to be perfectly clear for her to be visible. Visibility is best from November to March.
The order in which you visit attractions may vary. Hakone is a very popular destination for both foreign and domestic travelers, and local transportation on the ‘Hakone loop’ can get extremely crowded and delay the tour. We recommend booking the private car option for this tour
Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner
Guide: 10 hours
Kinnotake Sengokuhara for 1 night
Kinnotake Sengokuhara for 1 nights
Nestled amidst the tranquil landscapes of Sengokuhara, the exquisite Kinnotake Sengokuhara stands as a haven of serenity and refined luxury. This boutique hotel effortlessly marries traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern sophistication, creating an enchanting retreat for discerning travellers. Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the iconic Mount Hakone, the hotel offers a unique blend of tranquillity and scenic beauty.
The Kinnotake Sengokuhara boasts meticulously designed rooms, each a harmonious blend of minimalist elegance and indulgent comfort. Guests are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding nature, creating a serene backdrop to their stay. The hotel's spa facilities, inspired by Japanese onsen culture, provide a rejuvenating experience, while the on-site gourmet restaurant showcases the finest in local and international culinary delights. With its intimate ambiance and attention to detail, Kinnotake Sengokuhara promises an unforgettable retreat, where luxury seamlessly intertwines with the natural splendour of Hakone.
Your room: Hikari (with open-air bath)
Elevate your stay to an unparalleled level of sophistication in the Hikari room at Kinnotake Sengokuhara. This exclusive retreat seamlessly combines contemporary design with traditional Japanese elements, creating a serene haven for relaxation and indulgence. The room is adorned with subtle, earthy tones, providing a calming atmosphere that complements the surrounding natural beauty of Sengokuhara.
Step into the epitome of luxury with the Hikari room's private open-air bath, where you can immerse yourself in the therapeutic warmth while enjoying unobstructed views of the picturesque landscape. The room's meticulous details, from the plush furnishings to the Japanese-inspired decor, create an ambiance of refined elegance. Whether you're unwinding in the soothing waters or admiring the scenic vistas, the Hikari room at Kinnotake Sengokuhara offers a truly immersive and indulgent experience, making it the perfect sanctuary for the discerning traveller seeking a blend of comfort and sophistication.
Wednesday 16th October 2024
Welcome to Kyoto!
Welcome to Kyoto!
This is a must-see destination in Japan. Kyoto is the nation’s former capital and was the residence of the emperor from 794 until 1868. With 2,000 religious buildings, including 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, as well as palaces, gardens and associated architecture, it is one of the best- preserved cities in Japan and has 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Kyoto represents the “Japan of old” and beyond the high-rise skyscrapers built as a monument to progress, the real monument to Japan’s historical and cultural past can be found in the city’s narrow alleyways where tea houses abound and kimono-clad geisha hurry from elegant function to function.
Day 5: Hakone to Kyoto
Day 5: Hakone to Kyoto
Today, your driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the train station in a private car.
From there, you will board the Shinkansen to Kyoto in the Green Class. Upon arrival, an English-speaking assistant will meet you and escort you to your accommodation in a private car.
Meals included: Breakfast
Hyatt Regency Kyoto for 4 nights
Hyatt Regency Kyoto for 4 nights
Located close to the centre of Kyoto, a pleasant walk from the famous Geisha Gion district and opposite the Kyoto National Museum, the luxury Hyatt Regency Kyoto is a great base from which to explore the cultural heart of Japan.
The Hyatt Regency is located in the 'Higashiyama Schichijo' area, a cultural and traditional district within the city and is a great location for immersing oneself in all that Kyoto has to offer. The Gion district is nearby and here Kyoto's shops and restaurants offer visitor's endless choices. The temples and museums Kyoto is so well known for are also within an easy walk of this luxury hotel.
The hotel's décor reflects the traditional aspects of this historical city with luxurious Japanese silks present in all the rooms and natural materials giving the hotel a relaxed and calming feel. However, all of the modern amenities you would expect from a stylish and luxurious hotel are still very much present.
There is a Riraku Spa with specialist Japanese treatments where you can relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing and shopping. There is also a fantastic Japanese restaurant with views over a stunning traditional Japanese garden and two other excellent restaurants – an Italian trattoria and a continental grill.
Your room: King Room
Blending traditional Japanese taste with modern practicality, the 28-square-metre (301-square-feet) guestroom was created using ample plain wood to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The rooms are arranged with a beautiful kimono tapestry (from the Edo to Taisho period), a Japanese paper lantern and more, to make for a traditional Japanese environment while also implementing the latest technology such as flat-screen TVs and a Blu-ray player, as well as a work desk for practicality. The restroom has granite flooring and a large bathtub for better relaxation.
Thursday 17th October 2024
Day 6: Half Day Kyoto Market Visit, Sake Tasting and Cooking Lesson By Make Your Own Way
Day 6: Half Day Kyoto Market Visit, Sake Tasting and Cooking Lesson By Make Your Own Way
You will have the opportunity to explore Nishiki Market and its exciting food stands with a local guide. This experience allows you to learn about local Japanese produce. After visiting the market, you will wander through the backstreets and alleyways of Kyoto and visit a traditional townhouse for a sake tasting. The walk concludes at a traditional wooden townhouse where you will participate in a Japanese cooking class. During the class, you will learn how to make rolled sushi and enjoy the finished product for dinner.
Friday 18th October 2024
Day 7: Half Day Kyoto Highlights Tour By Public Transport and Shared Tea Ceremony Experience in Machiya House
Day 7: Half Day Kyoto Highlights Tour By Public Transport and Shared Tea Ceremony Experience in Machiya House
Northern Kyoto is a region rich in history and spectacular architecture. It has witnessed dramatic power struggles that resulted in almost 200 years of civil war. The oldest geisha district and its beautifully preserved teahouses are found here. Despite being home to the popular tourist site, The Golden Pavilion, many visitors tend to overlook the surrounding neighborhoods, which have remarkable charm and are of great importance to the city.
With the guidance of an experienced tour guide, you will explore the ancient neighborhoods of Kyoto, which have been established for over a thousand years. Kyoto is not only a city rich in history, but also home to modern monks, artisans, baristas, and college students who are shaping its vibrant future. One of the most popular attractions in Kyoto is Kinkakuji Temple, located in the northern hills. Covered in real gold leaf, this temple is a stunning sight year-round, regardless of the weather. You will also be captivated by the story of the warlord who commissioned the construction of this magnificent pavilion.
Next, you will visit Ryoanji Temple, which was constructed during the Heian period (794-1185) on the premises of a Fujiwara clan villa. This temple is renowned for housing one of Japan's most well-known zen rock gardens.
Finally, you will visit the amazing Kitano-Temanngu, an impressive shrine dedicated to scholarship that was constructed to appease the spirit of an angry ghost. Don't forget to purchase a lucky pencil, just like the local students do for their college entrance exams. Afterward, take some time to explore the surrounding entertainment district. In 1444, a fire destroyed a large portion of the temple, but it was rebuilt, and the remaining timber was used to create seven tea houses. These tea houses eventually became the first "flower town" or geisha district in Kyoto. Kamishichiken is just as enchanting as its more popular counterpart, Gion, but with the added benefit of fewer crowds and plenty of great photo opportunities.
Here you will be immersed in a tea-tasting experience led by an expert instructor and supported by our interpreter. Explore various tea varieties and the tools required for their preparation. Discover the meaning behind each gesture and delve into the cultural importance of serving tea to visitors in Japan.
Saturday 19th October 2024
Day 8: Day at leisure
Day 8: Day at leisure
Today you will have the chance to explore Kyoto at your own pace, with a free day at leisure.
Here are some ideas for how you might like to spend a day in this stunning city:
Experience the beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Togetsukyo Bridge. Immerse yourself in the enchanting Bamboo Grove, visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park, and admire the stunning views from the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. For a more peaceful experience, take a boat ride along the Hozugawa River.
Explore the famous Fushimi Inari Taisha, known for its thousands of vibrant torii gates. Take a leisurely hike up the mountain to the inner shrine and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto. Afterward, venture to the Fushimi Sake District to discover traditional sake breweries. You can experience a tasting and learn about the sake-making process while surrounded by historic charm.
Sunday 20th October 2024
Day 9: Day at leisure
Day 9: Day at leisure
Osaka, the historical commercial capital of Japan, has been the economic powerhouse of the Kansai region for centuries. Its prominence began in the 16th century with the construction of the country's most magnificent castle.
To support the development of the castle town, merchants were attracted from other parts of Japan to settle in Osaka, turning it into an important distribution center. As the merchant class thrived, the town grew and traditional arts like kabuki and bunraku flourished. Today, Osaka remains a hub for international business and is known for its local cuisine, large aquarium, underground shopping arcade, and the popular Universal Studios amusement park.
Today, you will be transferred from your Kyoto hotel to your Osaka hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy at your leisure.
Hotel Granvia Osaka for 3 nights
Hotel Granvia Osaka for 3 nights
Nestled in the heart of vibrant Osaka, the Hotel Granvia Osaka stands as a beacon of contemporary elegance and unparalleled convenience. This urban oasis seamlessly blends modern sophistication with warm hospitality, offering discerning travellers a haven in the midst of the bustling city. Situated above the Osaka Station City complex, the hotel provides direct access to an array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, ensuring that every moment of your stay is infused with the dynamic energy of Osaka.
The Hotel Granvia Osaka boasts a range of meticulously designed rooms, each providing a stylish retreat from the urban buzz. From the chic decor to the expansive windows offering panoramic city views, every detail is thoughtfully curated to enhance your experience. Guests can indulge in a culinary journey at the hotel's diverse dining establishments, showcasing the best of local and international cuisine. With its central location, contemporary ambiance, and commitment to guest comfort, Hotel Granvia Osaka invites you to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Osaka while enjoying the epitome of modern luxury.
Your room: Casual Double
Discover comfort and modern simplicity in the Casual Double room at Hotel Granvia Osaka. Thoughtfully designed with a blend of contemporary aesthetics and practical functionality, this room offers a relaxed retreat for both business and leisure travellers. The Casual Double room features a cosy ambiance with neutral tones, providing a soothing atmosphere to unwind after a day of exploring Osaka's dynamic cityscape.
Designed for efficiency without compromising on style, the Casual Double room at Hotel Granvia Osaka is equipped with all the essential amenities for a comfortable stay. The plush bedding and tasteful decor create a welcoming space, while the room's efficient layout maximises functionality. Whether you're in Osaka for business or leisure, the Casual Double room offers a haven of tranquillity in the midst of the bustling city, ensuring a restful and enjoyable experience during your stay at Hotel Granvia Osaka.
Monday 21st October 2024
Day 10: Osaka Comfort Food Tour by Public Transport
Day 10: Osaka Comfort Food Tour by Public Transport
Osaka is a vibrant city in Japan, known for its lively and sociable people as well as its delicious food.
Today your guide will introduce you to the casual cuisine of Osaka and the cultural concept of 'kuidaore' – eating oneself to bankruptcy!
Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Osaka and take you to either Shinsekai or Dotonbori, depending on which is closer. Both areas are famous for their pedestrian-only streets filled with restaurants, making them foodie paradises.
Here, you'll find everything from hole-in-the-wall takoyaki stands to upscale eateries serving the finest wagyu beef. People of all ages come here to enjoy the culinary pleasures of Japan's soul food.
During the tour, you'll have the chance to visit shops and sample a variety of local foods, including the famous takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu.
The cost of these food items, as well as one drink per person, is included in the tour. If you prefer, your guide can also take you to other establishments such as ramen stands or izakaya bars.
Happy eating!
Tuesday 22nd October 2024
Day 11: Day at leisure
Day 11: Day at leisure
Today you will be able to enjoy a day at leisure in stunning Osaka.
Here is some inspiration for how you may want to spend your day:
Spend your afternoon exploring Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the largest public aquariums in the world. Located in Tempozan Harbor Village, this aquarium showcases a diverse array of marine life, including a massive tank housing a whale shark. Its unique design allows visitors to journey through various ocean zones, providing an engaging and educational experience.
You may want to relax and rejuvenate at Spa World, a one-of-a-kind onsen and bathing facility. Inspired by different cultures from around the world, Spa World offers themed spa zones where you can soak in pools with varying temperatures and mineral compositions. Additionally, you can enjoy saunas and try out themed relaxation rooms. It's the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese onsen culture while enjoying a fun and tranquil atmosphere.
Wednesday 23rd October 2024
Day 12: Osaka - Departure
Day 12: Osaka - Departure
As your time in Japan comes to an end, today your private transfer will take you from your accommodation to the departure airport, ready for your return journey home.
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.