10 Days Discovery of the Autumn Color of Japan

Itinerary

• Day 1:Arrival - Tokyo

  Welcome to Japan!

  After the plane lands, get to the hotel at your own pace and enjoy the remaining day to yourself. Whether you want to relax in your room or venture out with the golden and ruby hues, it's up to you.

  Optional: Private transfer from the airport to the hotel is available at request and extra cost.

  Accommodation: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu or similar

  • Tokyo

• Day 2:Tokyo Day Tour

  

  Meiji Jingu Shrine

  Meet your guide and begin your Tokyo exploration at Tsukiji Outer Market. Wander through the lively alleys and enjoy authentic street food (at your own expense) from fresh seafood to traditional local delicacies.

  Continue to Meiji Jingu. Walk through the towering torii gate and admire the serene wooden structures while observing locals paying homage to Emperor Meiji.

  Stroll along Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue, one of Tokyo's most celebrated fall foliage viewing spots, lined with symmetrical rows of golden ginkgo trees, creating a stunning autumn tunnel.

  At noon, enjoy a peaceful walk through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, where Japanese maples and plane trees display vivid shades of red and orange in its Japanese and French-style gardens. You can also admire the chrysanthemum displays in earl November.

  Wrap up the day with an optional visit to Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, where you can take in panoramic views of Tokyo's skyline with a backdrop of fall foliage from an observation deck high above the city.

  Travel Style: Private English-speaking guide + Private Vehicle

  Accommodation: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu or similar

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  • Tokyo

• Day 3:Kawaguchiko Tour With Vista of Mt. Fuji

  

  Mt. Fuji

  Escape the city and journey into the heart of Japan's autumn splendor as your driver whisks you away on a scenic 1.5-hour transfer to Hakone, a mountainous retreat ablaze with fiery maple and golden ginkgo leaves.

  Upon arrival, stop at Arakurayama Sengen Park for its postcard-perfect view of Mount Fuji dyed colorful by vibrant fall foliage. Continue to the nearby Maple Corridor (Momiji Kairo), the venue of the Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival, lined with rows of maple trees that turn brilliant shades of red and orange.

  Next, set sail across the shimmering Lake Ashinoko aboard a replica pirate ship while listening to Hakone's volcanic past and samurai history shared by your guide.

  Conclude your adventure with a ride on the Hakone Tozan Switchback Train, winding through mountains painted in rich autumn tones. Finally, your guide will escort you to your hotel.

  Travel Style: With Private Guide, Driver and Private Vehicle

  Accommodation: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu or similar

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  • Tokyo

• Day 4:Shinkansen Journey to Kanazawa

  Enjoy a relaxing morning in Tokyo with some free time to explore at your own pace. You may visit a local café for a leisurely breakfast, take a stroll through a nearby park, or do some last-minute shopping in areas like Ginza or Shibuya. In the afternoon, make your way to the station to take the Shinkansen to Kanazawa. Upon arrival at Kanazawa Station, transfer to the hotel on your own.

  Accommodation: Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel or similar

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  • Kanazawa

• Day 5:Half-Day Shirakawa-Go Tour From Kanazawa

  

  Shirakawa-Go

  Step back in time and experience the storybook charm of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO-listed village nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps. Your journey begins with a private transfer from Kanazawa, where your English-speaking driver-guide will share fascinating insights into the region's rich history and culture.

  As you arrive, cross the iconic wooden bridge over the shimmering Shō River and wander through centuries-old gasshō-zukuri farmhouses, their steep thatched roofs resembling hands in prayer. With over two hours to explore, soak in the peaceful atmosphere, capture breathtaking views from the village lookout, and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of rural Japan.

  After this enchanting experience, relax on your return journey to Kanazawa, where the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

  Travel Style: English-Speaking Driver Cum Guide

  Accommodation: Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel or similar

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  • Kanazawa

• Day 6:Kanazawa Day Tour

  

  Kenrokuen Garden

  Today, let your guide lead you on a journey through the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden, where maple trees glow in shades of crimson and gold. Stroll along tranquil ponds, cross elegant bridges, and admire the harmony of teahouses and stone lanterns, all set against the vibrant colors of fall foliage.

  Just a short walk away, step into the modern world at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, where innovative exhibits contrast beautifully with the city's historic charm.

  Continue to the reconstructed Kanazawa Castle, where the golden leaves create a striking backdrop against its white walls and imposing turrets. After an inspiring day immersed in art, history, and the beauty of autumn, your guide will return you to your hotel for a well-deserved evening of relaxation.

  Travel Style: Private Guided Walking Tour + Public Transportation

  Accommodation: Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel or similar

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  • Kanazawa

• Day 7:Kanazawa - Kyoto

  Free at leisure in the morning.

  At appropriate time, make your own way to Kanazawa Station for your train to Kyoto. (with a transfer at Tsuruga Station).

  Upon arriving at Kyoto, make your own way to your hotel.

  Accommodation: Kyoto Tokyu Hotel or similar

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  • Kyoto

• Day 8:Kyoto Highlights With Kimono Experience & Tea Ceremony

  

  Nijo Castle

  Take a scenic hike up Mount Inari, walk through the thousands of vermilion torii gates leading to the sacred Fushimi Inari-Taisha.

  Next, explore the historic Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once housed the Tokugawa Shogunate. Admire its intricately painted sliding doors and walk across the famed nightingale floors, designed to sing with each step.

  Continue to Nishiki Market, "Kyoto's Kitchen". From sweet treats to fresh sushi, here you can soak in the lively market atmosphere with Kyoto's finest delicacies.

  For a truly immersive cultural experience, slip into a kimono and step inside a traditional Machiya house for an authentic Japanese tea ceremony. Watch a tea master perform the graceful art of matcha preparation, then savor your freshly whisked tea alongside delicate wagashi sweets.

  Conclude your journey today with some best of Kyoto's autumn foliage views at Nanzen-ji Temple. Stand beneath the majestic Sanmon Gate, its grandeur framed by fiery maple leaves, and wander through the serene Zen gardens, glowing in the golden light of the season.

  Travel Style: Private English-Speaking Guide + Public Transportation

  Accommodation: Kyoto Tokyu Hotel or similar

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  • Kyoto

• Day 9:Arashiyama and Kyoto Day Trip - Autumn Splendor

  

  Arashiyama, Bamboo Groves

  Escape to Arashiyama for a leisurely wander beneath the golden autumn glow, where towering stalks sway gently in the crisp breeze like a whispering symphony. Just beyond, the Togetsukyo Bridge offers a picture-perfect view of the Katsura River, framed by forested mountains lit in colors of crimson, amber, and gold.

  Returning to the heart of Kyoto, stroll along the Philosopher's Path, now a serene tunnel of fiery maple leaves reflected in the tranquil canal waters. For a quieter yet equally picturesque scene, the Okazaki Canal provides a charming alternative, where the beauty of fall unfolds with fewer crowds.

  End your day in the historic district of Gion, where lantern-lit streets and traditional teahouses evoke the elegance of old Kyoto, making for a truly magical evening.

  Travel Style: English-Speaking Guide, Driver, and Vehicle

  Accommodation: Kyoto Tokyu Hotel or similar

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  • Kyoto

• Day 10:Kyoto - Departure

  Your 10-day autumn colors discovery in Japan ends in Kyoto. Take a taxi or the express train to Kansai airport on your own for your flight to your next destination.

  Optional: Private transfer from the airport to the hotel is available at request and extra cost.

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