After a smooth landing in Tokyo, your adventure truly begins. As you pass through customs and retrieve your luggage, an airport guide will warmly greet you. With a friendly smile, they’ll provide you with all your trip documents and direct you to your convenient shared shuttle service, which will whisk you away to your hotel. From here, you’ll start to feel the electric buzz of the city and begin to see glimpses of what awaits you.

Once you check into your hotel, take a moment to relax and settle in after your flight. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Whether you choose to rest and rejuvenate after your long journey or venture out to see the sights, Tokyo is a city of endless possibilities. If you’re up for a bit of exploration, we recommend a peaceful stroll through the Imperial Gardens. These serene gardens, nestled in the heart of the city, offer a tranquil escape from the urban buzz and provide an idyllic first glimpse of the beauty of Tokyo’s historical landscape.

Whether you choose to unwind or embark on a small adventure, this day offers the perfect balance of relaxation and discovery in one of the world’s most captivating cities.

Begin your day with an enriching morning orientation led by one of our expert local guides. They’ll provide a detailed overview of your upcoming trip, offering invaluable insights into Japan's unique culture and customs. This personalized session ensures you’re well-prepared and confident as you explore the country. The guide will also share some hidden gems and practical tips for navigating Tokyo's exciting metropolis.

After your orientation, the rest of the afternoon is yours to immerse yourself in the dynamic pulse of Tokyo. Start with a visit to the Hamarikyu Gardens, an enchanting oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city. Stroll along the peaceful paths, take in the lush greenery, and admire the harmonious blend of nature and traditional Japanese landscaping. Following that, head to the vibrant Asakusa Old Town, where you’ll step back in time and explore its bustling streets lined with historic shops, temples, and local treasures.

As the evening sets in, prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable culinary experience. With your guide, venture to the lively district of Ebisu, renowned for its array of local Tokyo cuisine. Whether you’re savoring sizzling yakitori, rich ramen, or fresh sushi, the district offers the perfect environment to indulge in Tokyo's vibrant food scene. Enjoy a memorable evening of authentic flavors and bustling street life.

After breakfast at your hotel, embark on a scenic journey to Kamakura, a charming seaside town that once served as the capital of Japan. Known for its serene atmosphere and historical significance, Kamakura offers a peaceful contrast to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. The train journey takes about an hour and a quarter, and you’ll travel independently, giving you a glimpse into the daily life of the locals. Trains depart regularly from Tokyo, and your guide will provide you with all the necessary details to make the trip smooth and easy.

Upon arrival in Kamakura, you’ll be greeted by the awe-inspiring Great Bronze Buddha (Daibutsu), an iconic symbol of Japanese heritage. Standing at an impressive 13.35 meters tall, this monumental statue is a reminder of the town’s rich cultural past. You’ll have plenty of time to marvel at the Buddha and take in the peaceful surroundings.

The day is yours to explore further, and we highly recommend visiting Hase Kannon Temple, one of Kamakura’s most beautiful temples. This temple is dedicated to the goddess of mercy and features a stunning wooden statue of Kannon, which stands nearly 10 meters tall. Wander through the temple grounds, take in the lovely gardens, and enjoy the tranquil ambiance that makes Kamakura such a special place.

With so many temples and shrines scattered across the town, you’ll be able to spend your day at a leisurely pace, soaking in the history, nature, and spirituality that Kamakura has to offer.

After a delightful breakfast in Tokyo, you’ll board the bullet train for a swift and scenic journey to Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan. As the train speeds along the tracks, you’ll be mesmerized by the changing landscapes of Japan, with the picturesque countryside offering a stunning contrast to the neon lights and bustling streets of Tokyo. The journey lasts around three hours, but the time will fly by as you look out the window and get a glimpse of Japan’s natural beauty.

Kyoto, often called the cultural heart of Japan, is home to some of the country’s most treasured art, historical sites, and a refined, timeless atmosphere. Upon arrival, you’ll find yourself stepping into a city that holds the key to understanding Japan’s ancient traditions and sophisticated elegance.

The remainder of the day will be at your leisure. You may choose to wander the tranquil streets of Gion, Kyoto's famous geisha district, or take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Kiyomizu-dera Temple or the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Kyoto offers a perfect mix of ancient temples, serene gardens, and lively cultural hotspots, all waiting to be explored at your own pace. Whether you want to shop for unique souvenirs or simply relax and enjoy the atmosphere, Kyoto is the perfect place to embrace the slow rhythm of Japan.

Today, a local guide will take you on a journey through the historic and culturally rich sights of Kyoto, allowing you to experience the city’s timeless beauty and traditional charm. Begin your day with a visit to Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. The castle, once home to Tokugawa shoguns, will give you insight into the country’s feudal history and the grandeur of the Edo period.

Next, you’ll explore the bustling Nishiki-dori Market, often referred to as Kyoto's "Kitchen". Here, you can sample a variety of traditional Japanese delicacies, such as fresh squid, octopus, eel, and the region's famous matcha powder sweets. It’s a vibrant and flavorful experience that will immerse you in the culinary traditions of Kyoto.

After indulging in the local flavors, take a leisurely stroll through the narrow, atmospheric streets of Gion, Kyoto’s historic Geisha district. As you wander, you may catch a glimpse of a Geisha or Maiko in their traditional attire, adding a magical touch to your exploration. Finish your tour by visiting a selection of Kyoto's iconic temples and shrines, each with its own unique architectural beauty and peaceful ambiance. From the serenity of Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates to the impressive Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Kyoto’s temples are sure to captivate and inspire you.

Today, take the bullet train for a scenic journey of just over two and a half hours, traveling from Kyoto to the historic city of Hiroshima. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the moving and serene Peace Memorial Park, a poignant tribute to the lives lost in the atomic bombing of 1945. Here, you can take time to reflect at the Atomic Bomb Dome, which stands as a powerful reminder of the horrors of war and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Continue your emotional journey with a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, where exhibits and personal accounts tell the story of the tragedy and the ongoing efforts for peace. The museum provides a powerful insight into the resilience of Hiroshima and its citizens in the aftermath of the bombing.

After an inspiring day, enjoy a break with a delicious okonomiyaki lunch, Hiroshima's local specialty. This savory pancake, often filled with cabbage, pork, seafood, and a variety of other ingredients, is grilled to perfection and eaten with a tangy sauce. It's a culinary treat that perfectly encapsulates the city’s unique flavors.

Today is a day at leisure, allowing you to explore Tokyo at your own pace. If you’re feeling adventurous, we recommend taking a day trip to Nara, Japan’s ancient capital, renowned for its historical significance and tranquil beauty. The journey is simple and can be made independently, with the train journey each way lasting just under an hour, making it an easy and relaxing excursion.

In Nara, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the iconic Giant Buddha (Daibutsu) at Todaiji Temple, a colossal statue that stands as one of the largest wooden structures in the world. You’ll also have time to wander through the serene Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of peace and calm. Nara’s blend of ancient temples, historical landmarks, and natural beauty offers an authentic experience of Japan’s cultural heritage.

Whether you choose to embark on this day trip or explore Tokyo, today’s adventure is all about discovering the charm of Japan at your own pace, with plenty of time for relaxation and exploration. Enjoy the freedom to create your perfect day.

In the early afternoon or evening, you will return to Tokyo to continue your journey in the capital.

After a fulfilling journey through Japan's vibrant cities, today marks your departure from Tokyo. Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences you’ve had. Your shared airport shuttle bus will pick you up directly from your hotel and take you to Tokyo Narita Airport or Tokyo Haneda Airport, depending on your flight. As you travel to the airport, take a last look at the city's skyline, filled with memories of its dynamic culture, ancient temples, and neon-lit streets.

Bid farewell to Japan’s warm hospitality as you board your return flight to NEW YORK, carrying with you the stories and adventures of this once-in-a-lifetime trip. The shuttle will drop you off at the airport, where you will check in for your flight, ready to begin your journey home with a heart full of memories from your time in Japan.