ITINERARY

Here is a day-by-day description of the tour:

Day 1 – Arrival in Tokyo
Meet your guide and the rest of the group at noon at the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at a leisurely pace, making it ideal for adjusting to the new time zone. Take a stroll through the local neighborhood followed by a relaxed dinner to get your first taste of this urban giant.

Day 2 – Tokyo: Shibuya, Harajuku, and Meiji Shrine
Our first day of urban exploration focuses on Tokyo’s most iconic districts. We start in Shibuya, where the energy is palpable at the world-famous crossing under giant glowing screens. We’ll ascend Shibuya Sky for a breathtaking panorama of the city's endless skyline. Then, we head to Harajuku, the colorful and creative heart of Japanese pop culture. The contrast comes naturally as we step into the tranquil forest surrounding Meiji Shrine, where the city's hustle is replaced by deep spirituality.

Day 3 – Tokyo: Traditional Meets Eccentric
In the morning, we explore Asakusa, a district that preserves the atmosphere of old Edo. The centerpiece is Senso-ji Temple, where bustling market streets offer a glimpse into authentic local life. We then switch gears to the city’s eccentric side with a visit to a Maid Café, a unique experience inspired by anime culture. We end the day at the famous teamLab, where technology and light create an immersive digital universe—one of the most avant-garde visual experiences in the world.

Day 4 – Nikko: History and Nature
This day we head to Nikko, where UNESCO World Heritage meets stunning mountain landscapes. We will visit the Toshogu complex, a spectacularly decorated shrine featuring architectural details far more intricate than the simple lines of traditional temples. Depending on our pace, we may also visit Kegon Falls, one of the region's most iconic natural landmarks, before returning to Tokyo.

Day 5 – Tokyo to Hakone
We leave the capital behind and travel toward the mountainous Hakone region. After check-in, the day is yours to enjoy without a fixed schedule. It’s the perfect opportunity to visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum or simply soak in the mountain scenery.

Day 6 – Hakone: Volcanic Landscapes and Relaxation
The day is dedicated to the unique experiences of Hakone. We can cruise across Lake Ashi and take the ropeway up to the Owakudani volcanic area, where rising steam and sulfur vents create an otherworldly atmosphere. In the afternoon, we relax at Yunessun, a themed onsen that offers a playful twist on traditional baths—the perfect way to unwind after a day in nature.

Day 7 – Hakone to Kyoto
We trade the mountain peaks for the refinement of Kyoto, traveling via the high-speed Shinkansen. After arrival and check-in, the evening is free for your first exploration of the former imperial capital—a city where every street corner seems to hold a thousand-year-old secret.

Day 8 – Kyoto: Iconic Temples
This day we visit Kiyomizu-dera, a masterpiece of wooden engineering with a terrace offering a stunning view over the city. We’ll wander through the historic Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka districts before ending the day at Fushimi Inari. Walking beneath thousands of orange torii gates as they wind up the mountain is a truly magical experience in the soft evening light.

Day 9 – Kyoto: The Samurai Village
Together, we step back into the Edo period at Toei Kyoto Studio Park. More than just a theme park, this is an active film set where we’ll explore meticulously recreated historical streets. We’ll watch live sword-fighting demonstrations and discover the interactive sets that bring Japan’s legendary samurai and martial arts culture to life.

Day 10 – Kyoto – Uji – Nara – Osaka
We head to Uji, the heartland of matcha green tea, to visit the Byodo-in Temple. Our journey continues to Nara, where we’ll walk through the famous park home to hundreds of free-roaming deer, considered messengers of the gods. We will also visit Todai-ji Temple, which houses Japan’s largest bronze Buddha statue. By evening, we arrive in Osaka, a city world-renowned for its night-time energy.

Day 11 – Osaka: Free Time / Universal Studios
A flexible day where you can choose an optional visit to Universal Studios Japan or explore the hidden streets and temples of the city at your own relaxed pace.

Day 12 – Osaka: Street Food and Urban Pulse
Today is dedicated to the vibrant Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi districts. This is where Japanese street food reaches its peak, set against a backdrop of massive neon signs. The schedule is open, allowing time for shopping or simply observing local life in one of Japan’s most dynamic cities.

Day 13 – Osaka – Tokyo – Departure
Take advantage of a final morning in Osaka for last-minute shopping or a final stroll before we take the high-speed train back to Tokyo. The journey comes to an end. You may wish to spend some time exploring or shopping for souvenirs before departing Tokyo at your convenience.

Terra Incognita - From Dream to Reality