13-Day Classic Japan Sightseeing Tour of Tokyo, Nikko, Hakone, Takayama, Hiroshima, and Kyoto

Get an insight into Japan’s unique and dynamic culture on this 13-day journey through Tokyo, Nikko, Hakone, Takayama, Hiroshima, and Kyoto. Customize your itinerary to fit your interest and enjoy a balanced combination of guided tours and leisure time as you take in the breathtaking scenic landscapes, visit popular landmarks, and relish delightful local gourmet delights.

Tour Highlights

• Discover Japan’s classic yet iconic destinations

• Explore Tokyo, Nikko, Hakone, Takayama, Hiroshima, and Kyoto in 13 days

• Visit the famous temples and shrines around Japan, including Toshogu Shrine, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Kinkakuji Temple

• Get a glimpse of the iconic Mount Fuji

• Taste authentic and delicious Japanese culinary delights

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Tokyo

Arrive at Narita International Airport. With the help of an airport assistant, take the shuttle bus to the hotel and check in. Take a short break, then meet your local tour guide for a short orientation before heading out for a short tour around Tokyo.

Visit the Famous Sensoji Temple

Step into ancient Japan as you walk around the historic Asakusa district. Admire the brightly lit Sensoji Temple, the most visited temple and one of the oldest religious structures in the country, and get to enjoy the temple without the usual crowd. Marvel at the magnificent Japanese architecture, get an in-depth understanding of Japanese history, draw your fortune, and walk along Nakamise Shopping Street, one of the oldest shopping streets in Japan.

Drop by the Bustling Shibuya District

Complete your Tokyo experience with a stop over at the lively Shibuya district. Go cross the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing and find the statue of the legendary Hachiko.

Day 2

Ride the Shinkansen Bullet Train to Nikko

Take the express bullet train, then local train to get from Tokyo to Nikko. You can buy delicious snacks or appetizing bento box at the train station to enjoy during the scenic journey to Nikko. Upon arrival, head to a Ryokan Inn to freshen up before heading out to explore the ancient town at your own leisure.

Day 3

See the Magnificent Toshogu Shrine

Start the day with a visit to Toshogu Shrine, the resting place of a Tokugawa shogun who was one of the most powerful rulers in the country. Admire the distinct architectural elements, such as intricate gold leaf, lacquer work, paintings, and patterns, used to cover every corner of the lavishly decorated shrine. 

Tour the Opulent Nikko Toshogu Art Museum

Continue to the historic Nikko Toshogu Art Museum at the back of the temple complex. Check out the collection of artifacts and traditional works, see the beautiful sliding doors and screens decorated by the best painters of the day, and stop by the Shin-Kyo Bridge, one of the famous landmarks in Nikko. 

Visit the Beautiful Lake Chuzenji Boat House

Explore Nikko’s picturesque natural setting with a visit to Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls, and experience a different charm of the town as you take in the beautiful scenic sights before your eyes. You will also visit the mystical Kanmangafuchi Abyss and see the row of 70 Jizo stone statues along the way.

Day 4

Travel to Hakone

Depart from Nikko and head to the next destination, Hakone. You will travel by local train, followed by 2 Shinkansen bullet trains, and a bus. Travel time varies depending on the train and bus connections. Upon arrival, head to a family run Ryokan Inn where you will stay for the night and experience a relaxing outdoor hot spring onsen.

Day 5

Admire the Impressive Scenery from Lake Ashinoko

Cruise across Lake Ashinoko on board the Hakone Pirate Ship. A scenic crater lake known for its impressive view of Mt. Fuji, appreciate the majestic beauty of nature and bask in the beautiful color contrast of the natural landscapes depending on which season you are in.

Hop On the Scenic Hakone Ropeway 

Journey to one of Hakone’s most famous tourist spot through the Hakone Ropeway, an aerial tram taking you up the central Hakone mountain to the steaming vents of Owakudani. Enjoy the impressive panoramic views of the Owakudani Valley, Lake Ashinoko, Mt. Fuji, and the surrounding Hakone National Park.

Visit the Impressive Hakone Open-Air Museum

Japan’s first open-air museum, check out the well-curated collection of artworks made by Picasso, Henry Moore, Taro Okamoto, and many others, showcasing over a thousand sculptures and works of art.

Day 6

Journey to Takayama

Take a local train and express bullet train rides to Takayama and enjoy the scenic journey towards the beautifully preserved and charming town situated in the Japanese alps. 

Visit the Wonderful Hida Folk Village

An outdoor museum showcasing over 30 traditional farmhouses, admire the impressively unique traditional thatched-roof architecture style, learn the techniques used to build the farmhouses, and be amazed at the story behind the charming mountain setting. Then, head towards another Ryokan Inn where you can experience traditional Japanese hospitality and enjoy some of Takayama’s famous signature dishes for dinner.

Day 7

Check Out  the Hida-Takayama Miyagawa Morning Market

Take a guided morning walk to the Hida-Takayama Miyagawa Morning Market, check out the wide selection of locally grown seasonal fruits, vegetables, and other local farm products, shop, and interact with the locals. Afterwards, board on the train back to Nagoya.

Visit the Historical Harada Sake Brewery

Get a taste of traditional sake at the Harada Sake Brewery. One of the oldest and largest sake producer in Takayama, enjoy some traditional sake tasting, learn some traditional sake making technique, and hear the story behind the origin of sake. You can even treat yourself to some appetizing Hida beef. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the charming town.

Day 8

Ride the Bullet Train to Hiroshima

Take the bullet train from Takayama to Hiroshima. Upon arrival, make your way to the hotel and check in. Take time to refresh before heading out to explore the city and try its signature dish - okonomiyaki.

Visit the Historic Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Hiroshima preserves the significant event of the world’s first nuclear attack through displays of belongings, photos, memorials, testimony, and other materials documenting the horror of the atomic bombing. Take in the historic atmosphere of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park as you tour around the memorial park and commemorate the past.

Day 9

Explore the Miyajima Island

Make your way to the island of Miyajima to see the iconic floating torii gate. Climb to the top of Mt. Miyajima (you may opt to take the cable car) for a spectacular panoramic views of the Inland Sea, stop by the Hiroshima Castle to know more about history, and take a break from sightseeing at the beautiful Shukkeien Garden. Feel free to ask your local guide for some tips and suggestions on the best areas and restaurants to check out. 

Day 10

Visit the Spectacular Himeji Castle

Depart from Hiroshima and head to Japan’s most impressive samurai castle at Himeji. The best preserved castle in all of Japan, the Himeji Castle is a hilltop Japanese castle complex which has survived earthquakes and war. Explore the castle, hear the story behind the castle that was once home to over 10,000 samurai families, and admire one of the classic examples of Japanese castle architecture. 

Ride the Bullet Train to Kyoto

Take the high-speed bullet train to Kyoto, the cultural capital of Japan. Upon arrival, make your way to the hotel and check in. Take time to refresh before heading out to explore the cultural city at your leisure.

Day 11

See the Grandiose Kinkakuji Temple

Leisurely stroll around the beautiful gardens surrounding the grand Kinkakuji Temple and admire the stunning Japanese architecture showcasing the opulent traditional culture during Ashikaga Yoshimitsu’s rule. The Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is one of the must-see tourist attractions in Kyoto.

Visit the Magnificent Kiyomizudera Temple

One of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Kiyomizudera Temple is best known for its large wooden stage juts out over the hillside, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city. Take in the picturesque scenery, learn the story behind the temple, and feel free to drink a cup of the Otowa Waterfalls’ stream water for good health, longevity, success, and auspicious love life. Afterwards, walk along the steep and bustling alleys of the historic Higashiyama district lined with local shops and restaurants offering a selection of local specialties.

Walk through the Endless Torii Gates Passage in Fushimi Inari Shrine

Head to the Fushimi Inari Shrine and make your way through the fascinating tunnel of seemingly endless path of vermilion torii gates. Learn the story behind the torii gates along the entire trail and try the delicious Inari Sushi (Rice Stuffed into Pockets of Aburaage) and Kitsune Udon (Wheat Noodles in Broth Topped with Aburaage) that are considered as the favorite food of the divine messengers of the deity Inari.

Day 12 

Capture the Enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Ride the nostalgic Sagano Romantic Train through the scenic valley, enjoy the breathtaking panorama of the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, and take in the tranquil atmosphere of the scenic tunnel of towering bamboo stalks of the mesmerizing Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

Get a Glimpse of the Japanese Macaques at the Monkey Park Iwatayama

Climb the steps up to the Monkey Mountain and get to see the wild Japanese macaques up close in their natural habitat. Afterwards, board a row boat and cruise across the river to explore the valleys in traditional Japanese style.  

Offer Prayers at the Famous Yasaka Shrine

Tour the most famous shrine in the Gion area and see the iconic vermilion gate of the Yasaka Shrine. Feel free to ring the large bells at the main sanctuary to notify the gods of your presence. Known for its Beauty Shrine, Utsukushii Gozen-sha, feel free to offer your prayers. Most visitors of the shrine are young women who are praying to become more beautiful inside and out. 

Explore the Historic Gion District

Take in the nostalgic and historical atmosphere of the Gion district. Walk through the lively Hanamikoji Street packed with well-preserved wooden machiya houses. Hear fascinating stories behind the ancient district as you appreciate the grandeur of traditional Japanese architecture.

Day 13

Depart from Kyoto

Check out from the hotel after breakfast. With the help of the local guide, take the shuttle bus or train to your next destination.

Inclusions

• Hotel Pick Up and Drop Off

• 12 Nights Accommodation in High International Standard Hotel 

• Breakfast (12)

• Dinner (2)

• English-Speaking Local Guide

• Transportation as Per Itinerary

• Entrance Fees as Per Itinerary

Exclusions

• Local and International Flights 

• Airport Shuttle

• Local Hotel Tax

• Meals Not Mentioned

• Drinks

• Visas

• Travel Insurance

• Personal Expenses

• Gratuities (Optional)

Additional Information

• The tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.

• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.

• A moderate amount of walking is involved; Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

• Arrival time at each location may vary depending on the season and the day of the week due to traffic conditions.

• If there is insufficient time for all attractions on the itinerary, the tour guide will adjust the length of time spent at other attractions. 

• Delays, shortening of the tours, or omissions to the itinerary due to traffic, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances are not subject to refund.

• Itinerary is subject to change and the attractions may be closed due to traffic, weather, and force majeure. An alternative itinerary may also be omitted depending on road conditions.

• Please note that on days in which no activities are planned, you are free to explore at your leisure; all activities and purchases will be at your own expense. You will have your tour guide's mobile number in case of emergency.