North Japan and Hakone
12 Days Starting and ending in Tokyo, Japan
Visiting: Tokyo, Nikko, Matsushima, Hakodate, Sapporo, Toyako Onsen, Sendai, Kamakura, Mount Fuji
Tour operator:
Tour code:
2503159
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
36 - 72
Age range:
3-85
Tour operated in:
English , SpanishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through North Japan and Hakone, exploring the vibrant cityscapes and serene landscapes of this captivating country. Begin your adventure in Tokyo, where modernity meets tradition, and discover iconic sites like the Zojoji Temple and the bustling Shibuya crossing. Venture to Nikko's sacred shrines, the scenic Matsushima Bay, and the historic city of Sendai. Experience the natural beauty of Hokkaido, from the cherry blossoms of Hirosaki to the volcanic wonders of Noboribetsu. Delight in the cultural richness of Sapporo and the tranquil lakes of Toyako Onsen. Conclude your tour with a visit to the majestic Mount Fuji, capturing the essence of Japan's diverse beauty and cultural heritage. This tour promises a perfect blend of history, nature, and modernity, leaving you with cherished memories of Japan's enchanting north.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Welcome to Japan! After completing customs procedures, you’ll then be transferred to your hotel by shared shuttle bus. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. In the afternoon, you’ll receive details about the start of your tour.
Day 2 : Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
In the morning, we’ll enjoy an extensive guided tour of this truly mesmerizing city, lasting approximately five hours. Tokyo’s vibrant energy and cutting-edge neighborhoods coexist beautifully with its tranquil, serene spaces.We’ll begin with a brief stop at Zojoji Temple, where you’ll capture one of the most iconic views of the Tokyo Tower. The temple grounds are adorned with hundreds of Jizo statues, intricately carved stone figures believed to be protectors of children, dressed in colorful knit caps, bibs, and windmills.Next, we’ll head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, often hailed as the busiest intersection in the world, followed by a visit to the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife. Our journey will continue by bus along the elegant Omotesando Avenue. We’ll then see the most picturesque parts of the Imperial Palace and its gardens and stop to admire the iconic Nijubashi Bridge.As we proceed, we’ll pass through the vibrant Akihabara district, also known as the “Electric Town,” a hub for Japanese manga and anime culture. We’ll also drive past the Kokugikan, Japan’s renowned sumo wrestling arena.We’ll conclude our tour in Asakusa, visiting the historic Sensoji Temple and the famous Nakamise Street. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant. Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel.At 6:30 p.m., we’ll meet our guide in the hotel lobby and take the metro (tickets included) to the lively Shinjuku district. Here, we’ll enjoy a stroll through its bustling streets, renowned for their vibrant nightlife, as we head to a local restaurant for dinner (included). Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel by metro, accompanied by our guide.
Day 3 : Tokyo, Nikko, Sendai
Location: Nikko
Accommodation Name: hotel
We leave for NIKKO and arrive at this fantastic city at 10.30am. There we visit the impressive Nikko Toshogu Shrine with the room of the crying dragon. We will also visit the Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, set in an impressive, peaceful site, followed by a walk near the river, in Kannanga Fuchi, under the watchful eye of hundreds of Jizo statues! Free time in the city centre before leaving for SENDAI, a modern, bustling city with over 1 million inhabitants. Passengers can explore the city and have dinner in its busy, thriving centre.
Day 4 : Sendai, Matsushima, Hiraizumi, Morioka
Location: Matsushima
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
We depart for the marvellous city of MATSHUSHIMA, on the “Thousand Islands” Bay in the Pacific Ocean and considered one of the most attractive cities in Japan. After arriving, we will visit a magnificent “tea house” overlooking the sea and enjoy a cup of traditional tea while our guide tells us about the city. Then we will go on a 50-minute cruise (included). Lunch included. We continue to HIRAIZUMI to visit its temples and the UNESCO World Heritage. In a first step we visit the magnificent Buddhist temples of Chusonji. We take time to relax in the gardens of Motsuiji temple, where passengers can take part in a Zen ceremony (admission included). Finally, we will know Site of Takkoku no Iwaya, carved in the rock in 801. We then carry on to MORIOKA, the pleasant capital of Iwate province, where we settle in at our hotel and have some free time to explore.
Day 5 : Morioka, Hirosaki, Aomori, Hakodate
Location: Hakodate
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
In a region of beautiful scenery, we travel to HIROSAKI, where we will visit its castle in a beautiful park where more than 2,500 cherry trees blossom in the spring. After this we go on to AOMORI, the provincial capital of the Bay of Mutsu. We will see the Nebuta Museum where we will learn about the Japanese traditional parties that remind us of carnival, with their painted and lit up floats. Lunch included in a local restaurant. Then we board the ferry to HOKKAIDO Island. The crossing takes just over three and a half hours. HAKODATE –Arrival-. Time in the beautiful city pedestrian centre in which to admire the influence of other cultures in the city (Russian Orthodox and Christian churches).
Day 6 : Hakodate, Onuma, Noboribetsu, Sapporo
Location: Sapporo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
In the morning we visit the impressive and busy fish market. Then we climb the GORYOKAKU Tower with its impressive views, from where we can make out the star-shaped fortress of Hakodate. Then we will take a stroll through the castle area before continuing to ONUMA. Free time in this wonderful tourist site, with its countless small islands in which to explore the islands, go on a boat trip and have lunch included. In the afternoon our journey takes us towards the ocean and NOBORIBETSU, an impressive volcano site, where we can walk amidst geysers in Jigoku Dani (Hell’s Valley), admire the hot spring lake of Oyunuma and follow the path next to the hot spring to the site of the footbath.- Then we carry on to SAPPORO.- At the end of the day, we arrive at this beautiful city, the capital of North Japan.-
Day 7 : Sapporo
Location: Sapporo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
City tour (included) stopping at the clock tower and Odori Koen avenue-park, dominated by the telecommunications tower. We will see the beautiful Shinto shrine of Hokkaido Jingu. The visit includes a ceremonial Kito (prayer session) in which we give thanks for the journey. We will leave Sapporo, we know the HILL OF BUDDHA, new center of avant-garde architecture opened in 2015, the hill covered with lavenders keeps the giant statue of Buddha, in the complex we will also see the replica of the statues Moai (Easter Island). We then continue to OTARU, a small city with a European air and streets filled with shops, an old canal and tiny museums. Lunch included. We return to Sapporo at about 4.30 hrs. Free time in the afternoon.
Day 8 : Sapporo, Toyako Onsen, Mount Usu, Ferry Tomakomai Sendai
Location: Toyako Onsen
Accommodation Name: ferry
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
We visit the Pirko Kotan, the Ainu village museum. Here we will see the culture of the Eskimo people who inhabited this island before the Japanese. Amidst beautiful scenery in the interior of Hokkaido Island, we pass lakes and mountains and eventually come to the spa city of TOYAKO, at the foot of an impressive volcano, on the banks of a pretty lake that occupies a former crater. Free time to wander along the bank. We will visit the volcanology museum to learn about the eruptions suffered by this region. Then we will take the cable car to the summit of the USU Volcano with time to walk around the volcano and its awesome landscape. Lunch included. We then carry on to TOMAKOMAI where we take a modern ferry for a night crossing. Accommodation in double cabins with private bathrooms. Dinner included. We spend the night on board crossing the Pacific Ocean.
Day 9 : Ferry Tomakomai Sendai, Sendai, Yamadera, Aizuwakamatsu
Location: Sendai
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
We arrive in Sendai port at around 10 in the morning and go on to YAMADERA, a very beautiful complex of temples founded more than 1,000 years ago in the mountain’s, amidst forests of immense trees. Time to see this magical place. Lunch included. We then go on to YONEZAWA. We are in one of the main producer regions of Shake, we will visit the Sake Museum with its small distillery before carrying on through pretty scenery to AIZUWAKAMATSU. Accommodation.
Day 10 : Aizuwakamatsu, Ouchijuku, Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: hotel
In AIZUWAKAMATSU we visit the SAMURAI MANSION, a historical mansion where we will learn about the Samurai Warriors. After this we stroll in the Castle Garden and maybe we will see children doing martial arts on the Dojo. We will go up to Iimoriyama, where we will see the sculptures donated by Mussolini and they will tell us about the child martyrs of this city. We continue our route to OUCHI-JUKU, a very picturesque village of traditional houses with thatched roofs, where there will be time for lunch. After lunch we travel to the impressive former stone quarries of the OYA-MUSEUM. Return to TOKYO – Arrival at the end of the day-.
Day 11 : Tokyo, Kamakura, Odawara, Gora
Location: Kamakura
Accommodation Name: hotel
We’ll depart Tokyo for Kamakura, a serene “oasis of peace” that served as Japan’s capital for two centuries. This charming city is home to numerous sanctuaries, temples, and gardens.At the Hokoku-ji Zen Temple, we’ll take a peaceful walk through its enchanting bamboo forest (admission included) where you can enjoy a traditional green tea. We’ll also visit Sugimoto-dera, the city’s oldest temple, founded in 734. There will be time to explore the delightful city center before heading to the iconic Great Buddha (Daibutsu) (admission included).Our journey will continue along a scenic route by the Pacific Ocean to Enoshima, a picturesque island connected to the mainland by a bridge. You’ll have free time to enjoy lunch and a leisurely stroll.We’ll then proceed to Odawara, where we’ll visit the impressive Odawara Castle, a medieval fortress from the Edo era, restored in the 20th century (admission included).Overnight stay in Odawara.
Day 12 : Gora, Mount Fuji, Kawaguchiko, Tokyo
Location: Mount Fuji
Today’s journey promises breathtaking scenery as we travel to the stunning Hakone region, known for its lakes and mountains near the iconic Mount Fuji.We’ll begin the day by ascending Owakudani, the “Valley of Hell,” famous for its steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and sulphurous gases (access may be restricted due to volcanic activity or toxic gases; if so, we will visit the Arakurayama Sengen Park instead).Next, we’ll visit Oshino Hakkai, a charming village with eight ponds and picturesque views of Mount Fuji. From there, we’ll continue to Kawaguchiko, a storybook town of quaint houses, flowers, mountains, set beside a beautiful lake. Here, you’ll enjoy a delightful boat ride to take in the area’s beauty.Later, we’ll ascend Mount Fuji via the scenic road leading to the Fifth Station at 2,305 meters above sea level. We’ll return to Tokyo at the end of the day.Note: During winter, the road to Mount Fuji is often closed due to snow or weather conditions. If this occurs, we will ascend as far as permitted.Our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories. Please check your flight time in case you require an additional night. While the departure transfer to the airport is not included, our guide will provide recommendations for the best public transportation options to suit your journey.
What's Included
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Airport Transfer
Transfer from the airport to your hotel by shared shuttle bus upon arrival in Tokyo.
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Guided City Tour
A 5-hour guided tour of Tokyo, including visits to Zojoji Temple, Shibuya, Meiji Temple, and more.
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Lunch and Dinner in Tokyo
Lunch and dinner included on the second day in Tokyo.
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Metro Tickets
Metro tickets included for a trip to the Shinjuku district in Tokyo.
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Nikko Toshogu Shrine Visit
Visit to the Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum in Nikko.
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Matsushima Cruise
A 50-minute cruise in Matsushima Bay.
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Zen Ceremony
Participation in a Zen ceremony at the Motsuiji temple gardens.
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Nebuta Museum Visit
Visit to the Nebuta Museum in Aomori.
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Ferry to Hokkaido
Ferry crossing to Hokkaido Island.
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Goryokaku Tower Visit
Visit to the Goryokaku Tower in Hakodate.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from Japan are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into Japan are not included.
Mode of Transport
Transportation includes a shared shuttle bus, metro tickets, a ferry to Hokkaido Island, and a modern ferry for a night crossing with accommodation in double cabins.
Accommodation
Accommodation details are not provided in the tour description.
Check out our Q&As
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What can I expect on the first day of the tour in Tokyo?
On the first day in Tokyo, after completing customs procedures, a guide will meet you and you'll be transferred to your hotel by shared shuttle bus. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy at your leisure, and in the afternoon, you'll receive details about the start of your tour.
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What are some of the highlights of the Tokyo city tour on the second day?
The Tokyo city tour includes a visit to the Zojoji Temple, the bustling Shibuya junction, the Meiji Temple, and a stop at the Nijubashi Bridge. You'll also pass through Akihabara, see the Kokugikan Sumo stadium, and visit the Sensoji Temple. The tour concludes with a metro trip to the Shinjuku district.
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What activities are included in the visit to Matsushima on the fourth day?
In Matsushima, you will visit a traditional tea house overlooking the sea, enjoy a cup of tea, and take a 50-minute cruise around the 'Thousand Islands' Bay. Lunch is included, and you will also visit the Buddhist temples of Chusonji and the gardens of Motsuiji temple.
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What can I expect during the visit to Hakodate on the fifth day?
In Hakodate, you will visit the busy fish market, climb the Goryokaku Tower for impressive views, and explore the pedestrian center of the city, which showcases the influence of other cultures with Russian Orthodox and Christian churches.
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What unique experiences are offered in Sapporo on the seventh day?
In Sapporo, the tour includes a city tour with stops at the clock tower, Odori Koen avenue-park, and the Hokkaido Jingu shrine. You will participate in a ceremonial Kito (prayer session) and visit the Hill of Buddha. The day also includes a visit to Otaru, a small city with a European air.
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What is the significance of the visit to Yamadera on the ninth day?
Yamadera is a beautiful complex of temples founded over 1,000 years ago, located amidst forests of immense trees. It offers a magical atmosphere and a chance to explore the historical and spiritual significance of the site.
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What is included in the visit to Mount Fuji on the last day of the tour?
The visit to Mount Fuji includes a trip to the 'fifth station' at a height of 2305 meters, offering spectacular views. The day also includes a visit to the picturesque village of Oshino Hakkai and a boat trip in Kawaguchiko.
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Low Deposit
Europamundo requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of europamundo charges.
Up to 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 20 days before tour starts: Forfeit 20% of booking price.
At 10 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 2 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.