Classic Japan - Tokyo, Kyoto Self-Guided Tour

Brief Tour Itinerary

Tour Itinerary

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  Day 1: Arrival to Tokyo 東京

  • Arrival at Tokyo airport (Narita or Haneda).
  • Welcome to Japan! ようこそ日本へ
  • Clear customs and get your luggage.
  • Unaccompanied transfer from the airport to Tokyo (step by step details in your Japan Journal).
  • Your Pocket Wi-Fi will be waiting for you at the hotel reception.
  • Check-in at your hotel (rooms available from 3:00pm).
  • Explore the neighbourhood and try local cuisine for dinner.

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  Day 2: Modern Tokyo

  Check your Japan Journal for information on how to get to all points of interests, plus recommendations for shopping, restaurants and attractions along the way.

  • Start your day early at Meiji Jingu, one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Tokyo.
  • Harajuku, a vibrant district famous for its fashion and youth culture.
  • From Harajuku, walk down Omotesando, Tokyo's Champs-Élysées.
  • Continue your day in Shibuya, one of Tokyo's busiest and most popular shopping districts.
  • Go up to the Shibuya Sky for a stunning panoramic view of the city from above (Optional).
  • Explore Centre Gai for souvenirs.
  • End your day in Shinjuku.

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  Day 3: Traditional Tokyo

  • Start your day at Asakusa Senso-ji, one of Tokyo's most famous and historic Buddhist temples.
  • Walk along Nakamise-Dori.
  • Discover the district for unique Japanese products.
  • Stroll in Ueno Park.
  • Continue your day in Akihabara, Tokyo's electronic town.
  • Visit some of the many anime and manga shops in the area.
  • End your day in Ginza.

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  Day 4: Tokyo to Kyoto

  All details on how to get from Tokyo to Kyoto included in your Japan Journal, with instructions on how to pick up your Shinkansen train ticket and reserve your seat.

  • Check out of your hotel in Tokyo
  • Take a Shinkansen to Kyoto
  • Check-in at your hotel
  • Walk around Gion district
  • See the Yasaka Shrine
  • Walk around Maruyama Park
  • Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple
  • Walk through Higashiyama District

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  Day 5: Serene Kyoto

  • Start your day at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
  • Visit the Okochi Sanso Garden for matcha and wagashi (optional)
  • Walk towards Saga Toriimoto Preserved Street and visit the temples along the way
  • Visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Get the public transport back to Higashiyama Ward
  • Walk along Shijo-Dori for delicious food
  • Explore Hanamikoji Street in the evening

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  Day 6: Traditional Kyoto

  • Start your day with a Traditional Kimono experience.
  • Followed by a Traditional Tea Ceremony.
  • Get a glimpse into Japanese culture and tradition, and learn about the preparation and serving of matcha tea.
  • After the tea ceremony, head to Nishiki Market, also known as Kyoto's kitchen.
  • Next, visit Nijō Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto's most important landmarks.
  • Head to Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of the most famous Shinto Shrines in Japan. Take a hike up the mountainous path through thousands of vermilion torii gates and enjoy the stunning views of the city below.
  • We recommend ending your day with a Kaiseki dinner serving traditional Kyoto cuisine.

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  Day 7: Departure from Japan

  • Check out of your hotel in Kyoto and make your way to Kyoto Station.
  • Take the train to Kansai International Airport. The train takes approximately 75 minutes.
  • Be sure to arrive at the airport with plenty of time before your flight to allow for check-in and security procedures.
  • Check with your airline for recommended arrival times.

  Note: The Haruka Express train runs approximately every 30 minutes from Kyoto Station to Kansai International Airport. Be sure to check the train schedule ahead of time to ensure you arrive at the airport on time.