P R E M I U M
I T I N E R A R Y
Japan Best of Japan | 14 Days / 13 Nights
I N T R O D U C T I O N Immerse yourself in the captivating blend of ancient tradition and modern innovation that defines Japan on this expertly curated 14-day journey. From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto and the breathtaking natural landscapes of Hakone and Takayama, this itinerary showcases the diverse cultural riches of the Land of the Rising Sun. Enjoy private tours led by knowledgeable local guides, seamless transportation, and thoughtfully selected accommodations that will elevate your experience. Prepare to be enchanted by the timeless beauty, impeccable hospitality, and unforgettable moments that make Japan a truly unique destination.
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ITINERARY ROUTE MAP
Highlights • • • •
Discover the charm of Kanazawa, a city often referred to as “Little Kyoto”. Experience the beauty of Hakone National Park. See Kyoto’s heritage sites rooted in centuries of history and culture. Visit the ancient, meticulously-preserved towns of Takayama and Shirakawago.
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DAY 1
ITINERARY SUMMARY
Arrival in Tokyo Private transfer from Tokyo’s Narita International Airport or Haneda International Airport to your booked accommodation by air-conditioned vehicle. Narita is located 80 km from downtown Tokyo, so the transfer will take approximately 60-100 minutes. Meanwhile, Haneda is situated 14 km south of central Tokyo, with a transfer time of 30-60 minutes. Meet our representative at the Arrivals Hall at Narita or Haneda Airport, who will escort you to your transfer vehicle, after which you will be driven to your hotel in downtown Tokyo. Note: Our Meet and Greet staff won’t accompany you during your transfer.
Inclusions: - Overnight accommodation in Tokyo included.
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DAY 2
ITINERARY SUMMARY
Tokyo Full-Day Tour Experience Tokyo’s cultural and spiritual roots on a guided tour using the city’s efficient public transport network. Meet your guide at your hotel lobby to start your Japan journey in one of Tokyo’s most popular areas, Asakusa. Today’s first stop is Sensoji Temple, the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo, dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy. Don’t forget to take your time strolling through the small shops selling various snacks, traditional crafts, and souvenirs on Nakamise Street. Next, head towards Hamarikyu Garden. Built during the Edo period, this garden is located in central Tokyo; the tall buildings in the background stand in contrast against the calm traditional Japanese garden. End your garden tour with a cup of tea and a traditional sweet.
After lunch, continue towards Meiji Jingu Shrine. Only a few minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Harajuku, it is one of Japan’s most famous Shinto shrines, built to commemorate the Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken in 1920. The man-made forest surrounding the shrine complex houses up to 365 tree species and many varieties of birds. Finish up today’s tour with a stroll through Omotesando. Filled with shops and cafes and featuring a wide walking area, Omotesando is the perfect place to shop and admire the surrounding architecture.
Inclusions: - English-speaking guide. - Public Transportation in Tokyo during tour. - Entrance fees to visited attractions.
- Overnight accommodation in Tokyo. - Breakfast, lunch and snacks at Hamarikyu Garden.
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DAY 3
ITINERARY SUMMARY
Tokyo Half-Day Tour – Afternoon at leisure (Optional Sushi-Making Tour) Your second day in Tokyo gives you a deep dive into its time-honoured culinary traditions at the famous Tsukiji Fish Market. Meet your guide in the hotel lobby and set off together, navigating the city’s lively streets and travelling on its world-class public transport system to reach this iconic spot. While the legendary tuna auctions have since moved to Toyosu, Tsukiji’s outer market* remains as vibrant as ever.
The afternoon is yours to explore Tokyo at your own pace, or you can join an optional sushimaking class to learn the art of Japan’s most iconic dish from local experts. *Note: The Tsukiji Outer Market is generally open daily except Wednesdays and Sundays, National Holidays, August 14–15 (Obon holidays) and the 26 Dec 26 – 5 Jan 27 (Year-end holidays). If the Tsukiji Market is closed, an alternative tour will be held at Ameyokocho Market in Ueno or a similar food -inspired location.
Wander through the maze of stalls filled with sizzling street food, fresh seafood, and the cheerful banter of vendors calling out to customers. Soak up the sights, sounds, and delicious aromas that define this beloved neighbourhood.
Inclusions: - English-speaking guide. - Public Transportation in Tokyo during tour.
- Overnight accommodation in Tokyo. - Breakfast included at the hotel.
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DAY 4
ITINERARY SUMMARY
Scenic Hakone Private Tour Kick off the day with a hotel pickup in Tokyo* and head to Shinjuku Station, where the adventure begins aboard the Romance car. Watch the city slowly melt into mountain scenery as you ride into Hakone. After arriving at Hakone-Yumoto, jump on the Hakone Tozan Railway, a classic mountain train that climbs steep hills and weaves through forested valleys on the way to Gora. From Gora, switch gears to the cable car and then the Hakone Ropeway, gliding higher above the landscape as volcanic steam and rugged terrain come into view. Arrive at Owakudani, Hakone’s famous volcanic valley, where you’ll have time to explore, enjoy lunch, and try the iconic black eggs boiled in sulphur springs. Continue the loop by ropeway to Togendai, then board the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise—a piratestyle ship that sails across Lake Ashi with wideopen views and a bit of fun flair. Disembark at
Motohakone-ko and visit Hakone Shrine, set among towering cedar trees by the water, for a peaceful contrast to the day’s high-energy travel. Your tour will finish back at your ryokan where you will have the chance to relax in the hot springs and have dinner. *Note: Guests travelling to Hakone can forward their luggage from the Tokyo hotel directly to the Hakone ryokan or onwards to Takayama using Japan’s reliable luggage delivery services (additional cost, arranged locally). Alternatively, luggage can be sent from Hakone-Yumoto Station to your accommodation using the local luggage forwarding service available at the station. Guests can also stop at their Hakone accommodation to drop off luggage before continuing sightseeing; however, this may require a short taxi ride and could reduce sightseeing time. Your guide will assist in recommending the most suitable option on the day, and any additional costs and time required for luggage forwarding or transport should be considered and covered by guests.
Inclusions: - English-speaking guide. - Hakone 2-day Free Pass. - Romance car ticket from Tokyo to Hakone Yumoto Station.
- Entrance fees to visited attractions. - Overnight accommodation in Hakone. - Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
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DAY 5
ITINERARY SUMMARY
Hakone – Takayama Today, you will be transferred to Odawara Station in a private car to take the Shinkansen to Nagoya. Here, with the help of a Meet and Greet Representative, you will switch to a Limited Express Train that will bring you to Takayama. The journey will take up to five hours, filled with scenic views of Japan’s diverse and breathtaking landscapes. Upon reaching Takayama Station, make your own way to your hotel. The rest of your day is to enjoy at your own leisure.
Inclusions: - Private transfer to Odawara station. - Meet and Greet at Nagoya station. - Shinkansen and Limited Express train tickets (Green Car).
- Overnight accommodation in Takayama. - Breakfast at the hotel.
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DAY 6
ITINERARY SUMMARY
Free Day at Leisure in Takayama Enjoy this relaxed day exploring Takayama at your own pace. This charming alpine town is famous for its old merchant district, friendly locals, and rich cultural heritage. A great way to start the day is by visiting the Morning Markets, where you can browse stalls filled with fresh vegetables, local snacks, and handicrafts. Later, if time permits, consider a visit to Hida no Sato Folk Village, a peaceful open-air museum showcasing traditional homes relocated from the surrounding countryside. Alternatively, you can join a full-day guided tour (at an additional cost) for an intimate look into the lives of the Artisans of Takayama, renowned for their carpentry, ceramic and lacquerware skills, which dates back several thousand years.
Inclusions: - Overnight accommodation in Takayama. - Breakfast included at the hotel.
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DAY 7
ITINERARY SUMMARY
Takayama – Kanazawa via Shirakawago Depart Takayama with your private English-speaking driver guide for a scenic private transfer toward Kanazawa. En route, stop to explore the enchanting village of Shirakawago — a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its centuries-old thatched “gassho-zukuri” farmhouses nestled in a picturesque valley. Enjoy some time soaking in the village’s timeless beauty before continuing on to your hotel in Kanazawa.
Inclusions: - Private transfer to Kanazawa. - Overnight accommodation in Kanazawa.
- Breakfast at the hotel.
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DAY 8
ITINERARY SUMMARY
Kanazawa Garden and Tea Ceremony Half-Day Tour Start the day by visiting Kenrokuen Gardens, hailed as one of Japan’s top three gardens, renowned for its harmonious blend of seclusion, expansiveness, and water features.
with local tea masters guiding and teaching you about the hidden meanings in each movement and phrase. Enjoy your bowl of green tea with specially ordered Japanese sweets of the season.
Your guide will take you on a tour of this serene place, which was built during the Edo-period, including the Kazumi Lake, Plum Flower Grove, and Kotoji Lantern (a symbol of Kanazawa).
*Note: On days when the Gyokusen-en is closed, you will be taken to another exclusive location with the same level of excellent and traditional service. The rest of the day is free to enjoy at your own leisure.
Later, you will enter the Gyokusen-en gardens and participate in a traditional tea ceremony,
Inclusions: - English-speaking guide for half-day tour. - Entrance fees to Kenrokuen Gardens. - Public Transportation in Kanazawa during tour.
- Overnight accommodation in Kanazawa. - Breakfast and Tea Ceremony with traditional Japanese sweets.
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DAY 9
ITINERARY SUMMARY
Kanazawa – Hiroshima Today, you will take a combination of Shinkansen and Limited Express trains to reach Hiroshima. The journey will take you a little less than four hours. A Meet-and-Greet service at Kyoto Station will support your second transfer. After reaching Hiroshima, make your own way to the hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free to enjoy at your own leisure.
Inclusions: - Overnight accommodation in Hiroshima. - Meet and Greet at Kyoto station. - Shinkansen and Limited Express train tickets (Green Car). - Breakfast at the hotel.
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DAY 10
ITINERARY SUMMARY
Hiroshima and Miyajima Private Tour Visit the ancient island of Miyajima, a holy site with stunning Shinto shrines, Buddhist pagodas and temples, spectacular natural beauty, and charming Edo-style walkways emblematic of ancient Japanese culture. After travelling with your guide using public transit, arrive at the main complex of Itsukushima shrine, a lovely family Shinto shrine founded in the 6th century. At high tide, it appears to be floating above the water, along with its floating torii gate – the iconic Otorii. This massive gateway is one of the most photographed structures in Japan.
local delicacies. The island has farmed oysters for over 300 years, so be sure to try some, and sample some maple leaf castellas filled with red bean paste – a classic snack unique to the island. Return to the mainland and visit the Memorial Peace Park to witness Hiroshima’s tribute to its tragic past and hopes for the future. Visit the Peace Memorial Museum next, whose exhibits display artefacts and photographs of the bombing and its aftermath. After your tour, your guide will take you back to your hotel.
Wander around the island and see Daisho-in, a Buddhist temple with a trail of hundreds of happy Buddha statues leading the way. Afterwards, stop at the charming souvenir shops in town, or try
Inclusions: - English-speaking guide. - Public transportation from Hiroshima. - Entrance fees to visited attractions.
- Overnight accommodation in Hiroshima. - Breakfast and lunch.
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DAY 11
ITINERARY SUMMARY
Hiroshima – Kyoto Make your own way to Hiroshima Station, where you’ll board the Shinkansen again and speed through the beautiful Japanese countryside to reach Kyoto. The rest of the day is free to enjoy at your own leisure or take an optional evening walking tour (at an additional cost) to visit two of Kyoto’s largest geisha districts.
Inclusions: - Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Kyoto Station. - Overnight accommodation in Kyoto.
- Breakfast at the hotel.
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DAY 12
ITINERARY SUMMARY
Kyoto Highlights Full-Day Private Tour Set off on a captivating exploration of Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital, guided by a local expert. Take the city’s efficient public transportation system to reach the enchanting Kinkakuji Temple, a striking golden pavilion with a fascinating history. Continue to the majestic Nijo Castle, renowned for its intricate architecture and melodious nightingale floors. Then, pay homage at the Heian Shrine before concluding your journey at the iconic Kiyomizu Temple, where panoramic views await from its remarkable veranda. Delve into the temple’s remarkable history and ingenious construction methods, offering insights into Kyoto’s architectural marvels.
Inclusions: - English-speaking guide. - Public transportation in Kyoto during tour. - Entrance fees to visited attractions.
- Public transportation in Kyoto. - Overnight accommodation in Kyoto. - Breakfast and lunch.
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DAY 13
ITINERARY SUMMARY
Kyoto – Nara Full-Day Tour Meet your guide at the hotel and travel conveniently from Kyoto to Nara using public transport. After reaching Nara, use your one-day bus pass to easily navigate through the city to visit Isuien Garden.
The next stop is Kasuga Taisha, a shrine famous for its hundreds of stone and bronze lanterns. You will end the day with a stroll through Naramachi, a historic merchant district showcasing some Japanese townhomes.
Divided into two distinct parts, the garden is a striking example of Japanese horticulture, with water from the Yoshikigawa River and the backdrop of Mt. Wakakusayama.
After this, the guide will take you back to your hotel in Kyoto to spend the evening at leisure.
Next, wander through Nara Park, called Deer Park by locals, and home to over 1,000 tame deer. Within the park is Todaiji Temple, the world’s largest wooden building.
Inclusions: - English-speaking guide. - Public transportation to Nara. - Entrance fees to visited attractions
- Overnight accommodation in Kyoto. - Breakfast and lunch.
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DAY 14
ITINERARY SUMMARY
Departure from Kyoto Check out of the hotel and get transferred to Osaka airport by private transportation. Say goodbye to the beautiful Japan and have a safe flight back home. Sayonara!
Inclusions: - Breakfast at the hotel. - Private transfer to Osaka Airport.
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HOTELS & DESTINATIONS
Destinations
Class
Overnight Address*
Tokyo
Twin Room with Breakfast
The Capitol Hotel Tokyu
Hakone
Twin Room with Breakfast and Dinner
Hakone Kowakien Tenyu
Takayama
Twin Room with Breakfast
Tokyu Stay Hida Takayama
Kanazawa
Twin Room with Breakfast
Hotel Nikko Kanazawa
Hiroshima
Twin Room with Breakfast
Sheraton Grand Hiroshima
Kyoto
Twin Room with Breakfast
Dhawa Yura
* Overnight addresses are subject to change based on availability on the booking date. We reserve the right to offer/book suitable alternative accommodation if the mentioned overnight address is unavailable. Alternative accomodation will be sourced at the same or a higher standard at Discova’s expense.
Trip Inclusions: • Airport transfers, sightseeing, and day tours as specified in the itinerary. • Overnight stay based on twin share in stated accommodation or similar. • Meals as indicated in the itinerary. • Service charges and any government taxes
Learn more about the destination here: Japan Fast Facts For more information on the tour or for extending your stay, speak to us about our range of pre and post accommodation options, just email our team: agents@discova.com or visit www.discova.com