Description
Japan is a country with endless sights to explore, from the energy of Tokyo to the historic streets of Kyoto and the peaceful beauty of mountain villages. Many travelers want to see it all but find that managing time between destinations can be challenging, especially when trying to capture both the well-known highlights and hidden gems. This Multi-Day Japan Guided Tour allows you to explore Japan at a comfortable pace, combining popular sights with off-the-beaten-path locations that reveal the true spirit of each place.
With a professional local guide, you’ll gain insight into Japan’s rich traditions and modern culture, from historic temples and beautiful lakes to lively city districts and calm gardens. Private transportation ensures you save valuable time, arriving refreshed and ready to enjoy each new destination. By the end of this tour, you’ll not only have seen Japan’s famous landmarks but will leave with a deeper understanding of its landscapes, stories, and way of life.
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
Arriving in Tokyo, you’ll be welcomed by your guide and transported to your hotel in a private vehicle. This “soft landing” offers a relaxed start to your trip, giving you a chance to settle in and explore your surroundings. Your guide will recommend top hotels in well-located areas before your arrival, perfect for a nice walk if you’d like to start exploring Tokyo at your own pace. From here, your journey through Japan begins.
Stay: Tokyo
Day 2: Tokyo City Tour
Begin your Tokyo adventure with a guided tour through Harajuku, where modern trends meet traditional shrines. As you move through this lively area, your guide will share insights into Tokyo’s unique mix of old and new. After a relaxing lunch stop, head to the Imperial Palace Gardens, a former residence of the Tokugawa Shogunate and now a peaceful city park. End the day in Shinjuku, taking in city views from the observation deck and exploring Tokyo’s retro bar district for an unforgettable evening.
Stay: Tokyo
Day 3: Tokyo City Tour
Start your morning with a visit to Tsukiji Outer Market, where you’ll wander through stalls filled with fresh seafood and local goods, perfect for an authentic Tokyo experience. From here, head to Asakusa, home to Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji, surrounded by traditional shops and eateries. Later, enjoy a unique visit to Honda’s headquarters, where you’ll witness ASIMO, Honda’s famous robot, in action. This day showcases both the traditional and modern sides of Tokyo.
Stay: Tokyo
Day 4: Hakone and Mt. Fuji Five Lakes
After checking out of your hotel, your guide will drive you to Hakone, famous for its hot springs, mountain views, and sights of Mt. Fuji. In Hakone, you’ll visit a traditional crafts village, stop by an ancient tea house, enjoy a peaceful lake cruise, and take a ropeway ride with views of the Hakone mountains and geothermal sites. Afterward, continue to the Mt. Fuji Five Lakes area, where you’ll unwind in nature with a beautiful view of Japan’s iconic peak.
Stay: Mt. Fuji Five Lakes District
Day 5: Mt. Fuji Views and Matsumoto
Spend the morning visiting some of the lakes and scenic spots around Mt. Fuji. Your guide will take you to Matsumoto, where you’ll sample local specialties like soba noodles, and explore Matsumoto Castle, a well-preserved national treasure. Following this, you’ll travel onward to Takayama, ready to explore this culturally rich mountain town the next day.
Stay: Takayama
Day 6: Takayama, Shirakawago & Gokayama
Your day in Takayama begins with a visit to the morning markets, a local tradition where you’ll find fresh produce and crafts. Stroll through Takayama’s beautifully preserved old town, with its traditional buildings and shops. In the afternoon, head to the UNESCO World Heritage villages of Shirakawago and Gokayama, known for their unique gassho-zukuri thatched-roof houses. The day ends in Kanazawa.
Stay: Kanazawa
Day 7: Discover Kanazawa
Kanazawa, a city rich in samurai history, offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. Start with a visit to Kenrokuen Garden, considered one of Japan’s top three landscape gardens. Explore Kanazawa Castle and the popular Omicho Market, then wander the samurai and tea house districts, where history and tradition meet modern city life.
Stay: Kanazawa
Day 8: Scenic Drive to Kyoto
Travel from Kanazawa to Kyoto, a journey filled with beautiful countryside views. Arriving in Kyoto, explore the Arashiyama district, where you’ll visit temples, a bamboo grove, and traditional townscapes. Relax as you settle into your Kyoto accommodations for the next few nights.
Stay: Kyoto
Day 9: Kyoto Highlights
Today’s itinerary includes the Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a stunning temple covered in gold leaf, and the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former residence of Japan’s imperial family. In the afternoon, head to the Higashiyama district, exploring Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the iconic streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka before arriving in Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district.
Stay: Kyoto
Day 10: Our Next Destination, Nara
Our next destination, this time as a day trip, is the beautiful city of Nara, which was Japan’s first capital. There, your guide will introduce you to historic temples and shrines. Begin with the Fushimi Inari Shrine and its famous torii gates, then continue to Todai-ji, home of the Great Buddha, and Nara Park. Here, you’ll experience Japan’s ancient history up close.
Stay: Kyoto
Day 11: Departure from Japan
For those departing from Kyoto, you’ll have a relaxing morning before heading to Kansai International Airport. If your flight is from Tokyo, we’ll check out of the Kyoto hotel and drive back to Tokyo. This return journey can include a last sightseeing stop in Tokyo, or we’ll proceed straight to the airport. The trip can also be extended with additional destinations such as Osaka, Kobe, or Nagoya on the way back to Tokyo.
Stay: Kyoto or Tokyo, if extended.
Why Book our Multi-Day Japan Guided Tour?
This Multi-Day Japan road trip combines comfort, convenience, and the expertise of a local guide. Each day is designed to give you maximum time exploring Japan’s best sights without the hassle of planning or navigating. Private transportation makes each stop relaxed and efficient, and the flexible itinerary allows us to make adjustments based on your group’s preferences. Experience Japan’s culture and history in a way that goes beyond the guidebook.
What’s Included
- Airport meet-and-greet and private transfers
- Private transportation (including gas, tolls, and parking)
- Professional local guide (English-speaking)
- Comprehensive travel insurance
What’s Not Included
- Accommodation fees (we can assist with bookings and arrange guide accommodations, typically at a minimal rate)
- Meals, entrance fees, and personal expenses
Your Vehicle for our Multi-Day Japan Guided Tour
Travel in comfort with our private van, which accommodates up to 8 people. This spacious vehicle provides room for a relaxed journey. The tour’s price depends on the number of participants, making it a cost-effective option for families or groups.
Customization Options
With a private vehicle and experienced guide, this tour offers exceptional flexibility. We can adjust the itinerary based on your preferred destinations, fitness level, or available time. The trip can be customized to include additional cities or unique experiences. Our goal is to make this trip ideal for both first-time visitors and returning travelers. If you are looking for a new perspective on Japan, that’s the tour for you.
