Highlights of Japan  (14 days)

Japan is a land of contrast and diversity. While this itinerary covers major sightseeing spots definitely worth visiting, it also integrates lesser-known hidden gems of Japan.  Enjoy the alluring diversity - traditional and modern culture of Japan, energetic trendy big cities and peaceful rural areas, the freshest seafood and exquisite Kyoto-style cuisine.

Begin your private tour at Tokyo, the center of Japan.  Since we will have ample opportunity to enjoy the traditional part of Japan in Kyoto and Nara, we will put more emphasis in Tokyo on the modern side of Japan.  Also, there are numerous dining options. Fresh sushi at Tsukiji fish market will be an amazing experience.

After Tokyo, enjoy Japan's scenic natural beauty. Hakone is a fascinated resort famous for hot springs.  On a nice and clear day, you might be able to see the magnificent Mt. Fuji from Lake Ashinoko.  Takayama, a beautiful historical town surrounded Japan Alps, is a charming town to explore.  Shirakawago is a historical village famous for its thatched roof houses and registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Kyoto and Nara are both old capitals of Japan, full of historical and cultural charms.  In addition to visiting several world famous temples and shrines, you should also explore the beautiful gardens at a tranquil temple, a lively cobble-stone path, as well as smaller villages on the outskirt of the city.  We have suggestions for you to enjoy peaceful moments.  Hiroshima is the forever remembered city as the victim of atomic bomb, having been visited by a lot of people who pray for everlasting peace.  Beautiful Itsukushima Shrine is situated in Miyajima, the sacred island near Hiroshima.

You will fly from Osaka, the second largest city in Japan.  Enjoy the hearty local cuisine to your heart’s content before you leave Japan. 

Sample Itinerary Overview

Day 1   Arrive at Tokyo, City tour

Arrive at Tokyo for two nights stay at a prestigious hotel.  Late afternoon at your leisure.  We will make suggestions on where to visit depending on your interests.  A nice Japanese restaurant will be booked upon request.

Day 2 　Tokyo fish market, Gourmet tour

Private tour of the Tsukiji fish market, and sushi breakfast.  Enjoy a river cruise to visit Asakusa Sensoji Temple in down town tokyo, latest electronics district, and shopping for latest fashion, gourmet products, and crafts in an established shopping area.  Evening at your leisure.  

DAY 3  Tokyo, Hakone

Morning at your leisure.  Transfer by train to Hakone for two nights stay at a deluxe ryokan with hot spring.

Day 4  Hakone

Private tour of Hakone for scenic places using a ropeway gondola and cable car.  Visit a fine Japanese art museum.  Walking in the nature can also be included.

Day 5  Takayama

Transfer by bullet train and express train to Takayama for two nights stay at a ryokan or hotel .  Tour of the old castle town, Takayama.

Day 6  Morning market,  Shirakawago tour　

Morning tour to the market where you will find farmers selling locally grown vegetables.  Tour of Shirakawago, a historical thatched-roofed village which is registered as an UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.  

Day 7  Kyoto

Transfer by train and bullet train to Kyoto.  One night stay at a traditional ryokan, and three nights stay at a luxury hotel.  Afternoon tour of the city.  Geisha performance can be arranged upon request. 

Day 8  Kyoto, City tour

Private walking tour of a bamboo path, a panoramic garden, and serene temples.  Visiting a traditional craftsmen's workshop can be arranged. 

Day 9  Kyoto 

At your liesure.  We will make recommendations for you. 

Day 10  Nara tour

Private tour of Nara, Japan's first imperial capital, including Todaiji (Great Buddha) and Nara Park.

Day 11  Hiroshima, City tour

Transfer by bullet train to Hiroshima.  Two nights stay at a dexluxe hotel.  Afternoon tour of the city.

Day 12  Miyajima tour

Tour of Miyajima, including Itsukushima Shrine, and Mt. Misen.

Day 13  Osaka

Transfer by bullet train to Osaka.  One night stay at a luxury hotel.  Afternoon at your leisure.

Day 14  Osaka, Transfer back

Transfer to Kansai Airport.

The tour price will differ according to many factors such as the rank of accommodation (e.g. 5-star hotel, 3-star ryokan), way of transportation (e.g. train, private car), number of days with a private guide, duration of your tour, or season.  Please contact us.  One of our tour consultants will come up with an ideal plan and cost for you.

Contact us

For more information, or to start customizing your own itinerary, please contact us.

Michi Travel Japan

Tel: 81-3-5213-5040

E-mail: commentsmtj@michitravel.com