Classic Japan Tour Around the Golden Triangle

Today, your private guide will lead you on an exploration of Tokyo's highlights by public transportation. Begin your day with a visit to Meiji Shrine, and take a glimpse of Shinto traditions in a calm, forest setting.

Continue to Harajuku, where tradition and modern youth culture meet. Walk along the tree-lined Omotesando and explore the lively Takeshita Street for some fashion boutiques and sweets.

In the afternoon, focus on Asakasa. Here you can find Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple, Senso-ji, and walk through the traditional Nakamise Shopping Street while browsing handicraft souvenirs and sampling local snacks. If you prefer a more immersive experience or memorable photo opportunities, change into a kimono (optional at an additional fee) before enjoying the historic atmosphere of Senso-ji.

In the evening, conclude your tour with a sumo performance accompanied by dinner (shared tour), offering an introduction to Japan's traditional national sport and its cultural background.

Make Mt. Fuji today's highlight of your Japan classic tour. Take in the breathtaking scenery of Mt. Fuji with a private guide, traveling to the Kawaguchiko area in the comfort of a 1.5-hour private vehicle.

First, enjoy a relaxing Lake Kawaguchi cruise while admiring stunning views of Mt. Fuji. After capturing the "upside-down Fuji" reflected on the water, visit Arakurayama Sengen Shrine, an ideal spot to take the iconic pagoda and panoramic vistas of Mt. Fuji. Continue to Oishi Park, where seasonal flowers frame picturesque views of the lake and Mt. Fuji, offering additional photo opportunities.

After sightseeing, your private driver will transfer you to Hakone's onsen hotel for your soothing traditional Japanese hot spring experience.

In the morning, enjoy the free time in Hakone at your own pace before heading to Odawara Station to board the Shinkansen to Kyoto (about 2 hours).

Your independent Hakone exploration can be filled with:

• Hakone Open-Air Museum: Enjoy modern sculptures set against the backdrop of mountains.
• Owakudani Valley: See volcanic landscapes and try the famous black eggs boiled in hot springs.
• Lake Ashi Sightseeing: Take a short cruise or stroll along the lakeside for scenic views of Mt. Fuji.
• Hakone Shrine: Visit this serene shrine nestled in the forest and famous for its torii gate by the lake.

Explore the cultural highlights of Kyoto with your private guide on the 5th day by public transportation. Your classic Japan tour package today begins with a stroll along the paths of thousands of vermilion torii gates, winding up the mountain to the well-known Fushimi Inari Taisha with its iconic fox statues.

Next, head to Nishiki Market for lunch (at your own expense), a bustling market to enjoy local delicacies from vegetables, seafood, to a variety of traditional snacks.

In the afternoon, visit Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire its historical architecture, beautiful gardens, and the famous "nightingale floors." You will hear a squeaking sound similar to a bird's chirping when walking across.

As the guide tour concludes, enjoy some time strolling around Gion to encounter beautiful geishas, as well as a Geisha performance with a tea ceremony (shared tour) to experience traditional Japanese performing arts and the refined culture of tea.

This day is open for exploration on your own. Here are some suggested activities and highlights for your Kyoto free day:
• Join a cooking class as a fun and interactive way to experience Japanese culinary culture.
• Visit the Arashiyama district, highlighted by Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Togetsukyo Bridge, temples, cherry blossoms in spring, and maple trees in fall.
• Enjoy the panoramic views of Kyoto from Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers excellent spring and autumn views.

Take a relaxing 3.5-hour e-bike shared tour in Nara on your 7th day's classic Japan tour. Boarding the train from Kyoto to Nara, your guide will meet you at JP Nara Station.

Cycle through Nara Park and witness the harmony between the city and the deer. Along the route, you will explore Todaiji Temple, home to the biggest bronze Buddha statue in Japan, and get a chance to go through the Buddha's nostrils.

Stop by the original shop of the prestigious cutlery knife maker, Kikuichi, and the nearby Kasuga Taisha, to learn about the ancient spirit of Kasuga, which can be described as the spirit of nature. Make Ukimido in southern Nara Park your next drop by, a hidden gem for your memory photos.

After the tour, take the train to Osaka and check into your hotel for the night.

Enjoy a free day in Osaka at your own pace. You can explore the highlights of Osaka according to your interests, spend your day in Osaka Castle Park and Dotonbori, or have fun at United Studio Japan.

We recommend joining a 3-hour guided food walking tour with a local guide to explore hidden delicacies, taste local specialties, and immerse yourself in the flavors of Osaka.