Japan Essentials
Independent Tour
This 16-day Japan itinerary offers a rich cultural and scenic journey through some of the country's most iconic destinations. Starting in Tokyo, you'll explore historic temples, modern fashion districts, and serene shrines before heading to Hakone for views of Mt. Fuji, hot springs, and a pirate ship ride across Lake Ashi. Next, travel to Kyoto to discover ancient temples and castles, followed by Hiroshima, where you'll visit Peace Memorial Park and the sacred Miyajima Island. The trip continues to Osaka for a taste of local street food and vibrant markets before returning to Tokyo. With guided tours, rail passes, and a mix of structured activities and free time, this itinerary blends tradition, history, nature, and urban adventure.
Ref: 527485
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Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9
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Day 10
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Day 11
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Day 12
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Day 13
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Day 14
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Day 15-16
Day 1 : UK - Tokyo
Board your flight to Tokyo.
Day 2 : Arrive in Tokyo
Konichiwa and welcome to Tokyo, Japan’s ultra-modern capital. You will meet your driver and be transferred to the hotel by private vehicle.
Hotel for 3 nights: Park Hotel Tokyo
Day 3 : Tokyo
Meet your guide to activate your Japan Rail Pass. With transport passes and entry fees covered, enjoy a flexible day exploring Tokyo. Visit the historic Asakusa district and Sensoji Temple, stroll Nakamise Street, then cross the city to the serene Meiji Shrine. End the day in Shibuya, soaking in its energy, fashion, and the famous scramble crossing.
Day 4 : Tokyo
Free day at leisure.
Day 5 : Tokyo - Hakone
This morning, make your own way to Odawara station and continue travelling to Hakone. Upon arrival, make your way to your hotel via public transportation and you are free to explore Hakone on your own after check in.
Hotel for 2 nights: Ichinoyu Honkan
Day 6 : Hakone
Meet your guide for a full day exploring Hakone National Park, with potential views of Mt. Fuji (weather permitting). Ride the cable car and ropeway over the volcanic Owakudani Valley, try the famous black eggs, and cruise across Lake Ashi by pirate ship. The day also includes a visit to the Hakone Open Air Museum. Expect some walking (comfortable shoes recommended).
Day 7 : Hakone - Kyoto
Use your Hakone Free Passes to make your way to Odawara today, to catch the train for your onward journey. From Odawara, you will take the Shinkansen to Kyoto. The Shinkansen trains travel at speeds of up to 300km/hr and cover the 430km distance to Kyoto in approximately 2 hours. On arrival in Kyoto, the rest of your day is free.
Hotel for 3 nights: The Gate Hotel Kyoto Takasegawa
Day 8 : Kyoto
Discover Kyoto’s cultural treasures with a local guide using the city’s bus system. Visit the iconic Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji), the historic Nijo Castle, and the grand Heian Shrine. End the day at Kiyomizu Temple, enjoying panoramic city views from its famous wooden veranda.
Day 9 : Kyoto
Free day at leisure.
Day 10 : Kyoto - Hiroshima
Catch a bullet train 90 mins from Kyoto to Hiroshima today, using the Rail Pass to make free advance seat reservations at station ticket desk if you wish. The recommended schedule is below: Hikari 535 bullet train departs Kyoto 0829, arrives into Hiroshima 1032.
Hotel for 2 nights: Hotel Granvia Hiroshima
Day 11 : Hiroshima
Explore Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and Museum with your guide, reflecting on the city’s history and hope for peace. After lunch, take the train and ferry to Miyajima Island, known for Itsukushima Shrine with its iconic floating torii gate. Enjoy free time to explore the island’s temples, scenic paths, and local shops before returning to Hiroshima.
Day 12 : Hiroshima - Osaka
Today, you will board the iconic Shinkansen bullet train at Hiroshima Station and make your way to to Shin-Osaka Station. Upon arrival, make your way to your hotel via public transportation and you are free to explore Osaka on your own after check in.
Hotel for 2 nights: Hotel Vischio Osaka
Day 13 : Osaka
Explore Osaka’s vibrant food scene on a guided walk, tasting local specialties like kushikatsu, okonomiyaki, and takoyaki. Visit Shinsekai’s nostalgic district, see the famous Glico Man sign in Namba, and stop by Hozenji Yokocho and Kuromon Market. The rest of the day is free for you to explore.
Day 14 : Osaka - Tokyo
Use the Rail Pass to catch a Hikari bullet train from Shin-Osaka to Tokyo today. Upon arrival, make your way to your hotel via public transportation and you are free to explore Tokyo on your own after check in.
Hotel for 1 night: Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Marunouchi
Day 15-16 : Tokyo - UK
Meet our representative at the lobby of your accommodation, pick-up time will be confirmed beforehand but is typically 2 hours before departure for domestic flights, and 3 hours for international.
Have a safe flight back home!
