Best of Japan - 8 days
Best of Japan - 8 days
Best of Japan - 8 days
8 Days Starting in Tokyo, Japan and ending in Kyoto, Japan
Visiting: Tokyo, Kamakura, Lake Kawaguchi, Kyoto
Tour operator:
Tour code:
1653/BOJ
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 18
Age range:
16-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Please contact On The Go Tours with specific dietary requests
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through Japan, exploring the vibrant cities of Tokyo and Kyoto, and the serene beauty of Lake Kawaguchi. Begin your adventure in Tokyo, where you'll visit iconic sites like the Sensoji Temple, Meiji Shrine, and the bustling Shibuya Crossing. A day trip to Kamakura offers a glimpse of Japan's feudal past with visits to the Big Buddha and Hokokuji Zen Temple. Marvel at the stunning views of Mt. Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi and experience traditional Japanese hospitality at a ryokan. In Kyoto, discover the cultural treasures of Nijo Castle, Sanjusagen-do Temple, and the Golden Pavilion. Stroll through the historic Geisha District of Gion and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this ancient city. With guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and a maximum group size of 18, this tour offers an intimate and immersive experience of Japan's rich heritage and natural beauty.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Yaesu Terminal Hotel
Saturday. Upon arrival to Tokyo you will be met at either Narita or Haneda International Airport by your guide. Travel by train into the heart of the city and check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free to spend at your leisure.
We recommend arriving before 3pm on this day, as there will be a Welcome Meeting at 6pm, where you will meet your guide and the rest of the group.
Day 2: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Yaesu Terminal Hotel
Today we explore the capital. Taking the subway to Asakusa we visit the lively Sensoji Temple District, which is home to Tokyo’s first temple and scores of interesting souvenir and craft stalls. In the afternoon we’ll head to Harajuku, which is a magnet for young and fashionable Tokyoites with its hip shops and cafes. Here, we’ll visit the impressive Meiji Shrine where the emperor Meiji and his wife are enshrined. Yoyogi Park, beside the shrine is a popular hangout for locals and there is always a lot going on, especially on Sundays with bands playing, drum circles, dancers and busking.
The last stop of the day is Shibuya Crossing - regarded as one of the busiest intersections in the world. The famed junction has no less than 7 pedestrian crossings and when the traffic lights turn red a wave of pedestrians, up to a 1000, converge onto the intersection from every direction. Known as 'the scramble', it's a well-practised art to duck and weave with sportsman like agility to avoid collision, which we'll watch from the second floor of Starbucks, located directly opposite the crossing. This evening offers free time, though if travelling in January, May and September you might like spend the evening watching a Sumo tournament (must be booked in advance). See our Trip Notes for more information.
Day 3: Kamakura
Location: Kamakura
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Yaesu Terminal Hotel
Tokyo - Kamakura - Tokyo. This morning we board a train for our day trip to Kamakura, Japan’s first feudal capital, which is just an hour from Tokyo. Kamakura is a popular seaside location with a quaint village life feel and some stunning Zen temples. Here we’ll visit the iconic bronze Big Buddha and the Zen Temple of Hokokuji with its beautiful bamboo garden. Here, you can drink tea before walking the cobbled shopping district - adorned with lovely locally made items before returning to Japan’s bustling capital for the night.
Day 4: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation: Hotel, Hotel
Accommodation Name: Yaesu Terminal Hotel
Today offers a guided tour of the Tokyo National Museum, housing a number of exhibitions from galleries to Japanese archeology. The Tokyo National Museum is located in Ueno Park, a large public park within central Tokyo and famous for a number of museums held within it's grounds. The remainder of the day offers free time to independently explore.
Day 5: Hakone
Location: Lake Kawaguchi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Yamagishi Ryokan
Meals Included: Dinner
Tokyo - Lake Kawaguchi. This morning we travel by highway bus (with luggage forwarding) to Lake Kawaguchi, located at the foot of Mt Fuji in the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park. The scenery is stunning with panoramic views of a snow-capped Fuji most of the year. Upon arrival we’ll travel along the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway and visit the observatory. For tours staying at Lake Kawaguchi between 15 Apr – 28 May each year we'll visit the Springtime Fuji Shibazakura (Phlox Moss) Festival held at Motosu Lake, where the landscape is covered in a vibrant, hot pink moss with Fuji as the backdrop. No trip to Japan would be complete without sampling authentic Japanese hospitality at a Japanese style inn, which is where we’ll bed down tonight. At the ryokan, sample tasty local cuisine and take a relaxing dip in the natural hot spring baths.
Day 6: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Elcient Kyoto
Meals Included: Breakfast
Lake Kawaguchi – Kyoto. The area has some great hiking trails and early this morning you might like to opt for a hike along the foreshores of the lake. We then travel by bus to Mishima, then bullet train to Kyoto - Japan’s ancient and cultural capital.
As one of the most culturally rich cities in Asia, Kyoto is home to an abundance of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. Here we enjoy a guided tour of Sanjusagen-do Temple, famous for its statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The one thousand life-size statues of Kannon are made of Japanese cypress clad in gold leaf. They stand in 10 rows of 50, each hand crafted and slightly different from the next. Late this afternoon we head to Gion, for a walking tour of this famous Geisha District. After, you may wish to watch a cultural performance at Gion Corner Theatre where you'll have the opportunity to see a Maiko (apprentice Geisha) performing.
Day 7: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Elcient Kyoto
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, we enjoy a guided tour of Nijo Castle, one of the city’s most impressive UNESCO sites. Built by the first Tokugawa shogun in 1603, the exquisite Nijo Castle is a wonderful example of Momoyama architecture. After, we visit Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) a stunning Zen Buddhist temple and part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto World Heritage Site. The top two floors of the monument are completely covered in gold leaf. Set upon a small lake with landscaped gardens, the large completely gilt structure is impressive, as it is a beautiful Temple. Kinkakuji Temple continues to be one of Japan's most visited temples.
This afternoon offers free time for you to relax or to further discover the many sights of Kyoto your own way. Consider visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its winding path lined by thousands of bright red torii gates. Just a short train ride away from the main Kyoto Station, this must-see sight is free to visit and is open 24 hours a day. You might also wish to hire a Kimono and walk the streets as many Japanese do or take part in a cooking lesson.
Day 8: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Dormy Inn Premium Kyoto
Meals Included: Breakfast
Saturday. On day 8 our tour comes to an end after hotel check out.
Prefer to end your tour in Tokyo? On day 8 you can opt to travel by train from Kyoto to Tokyo, where you will spend the night. On day 9 (Sunday) catch the train to Tokyo Airport (breakfast excluded on day 9).
For information about visas, top travel tips and much more, take a look through our [[travel guide|126582]].
What's Included
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Accommodation
3 star hotels & ryokans -
3 breakfasts and 1 dinner at the Lake Kawaguchi
Enjoy 3 breakfasts and 1 dinner during your stay at Lake Kawaguchi.
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7 nights 3 star (inclusive of 1 night at a Japanese style inn)
Stay for 7 nights in 3-star accommodations, including 1 night at a traditional Japanese inn.
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Guided sightseeing and walking tours in Tokyo, Kamakura, Lake Kawaguchi and Kyoto
Participate in guided sightseeing and walking tours in Tokyo, Kamakura, Lake Kawaguchi, and Kyoto.
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Lake Kawaguchi and Mt Fuji - Kachikachi-yama Ropeway and observatory
Visit Lake Kawaguchi and Mt Fuji, including the Kachikachi-yama Ropeway and observatory.
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Escorted by a licensed English speaking Japanese tour guide
The tour is escorted by a licensed English-speaking Japanese tour guide.
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All transportation and transfers - buses, trains and bullet trains including Suica swipe card
All transportation and transfers are included, featuring buses, trains, and bullet trains with a Suica swipe card.
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Baggage forwarding service from Tokyo to Kyoto (one bag per person)
Baggage forwarding service is provided from Tokyo to Kyoto for one bag per person.
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Airport arrival transfer to tour hotel (by train) from Narita or Haneda International Airport on day 1
Airport arrival transfer to the tour hotel is included by train from Narita or Haneda International Airport on day 1.
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Maximum Group size: 18 persons
The tour has a maximum group size of 18 persons.
What's Not Included
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Airport departure transfer
Airport departure transfer is not included.
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International flights and visa
International flights and visa are not included.
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Single supplement for privacy
If you opt to pay the single supplement for privacy, a single room will be provided for all nights except day 5 at Lake Kawaguchi.
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Tip for your tour guide
Tips for your tour guide are not included.
It is recommended to allow USD$3-5 per day, per traveller. -
Entrance Fees
Entrance fees are not included and are estimated to be USD$25-35 per person, paid locally in local currency.
Age Policy
16+ if accompanied by an adult.
Accommodation
Experience a blend of traditional and modern Japanese hospitality with stays at the Yaesu Terminal Hotel in Tokyo, Yamagishi Ryokan near Lake Kawaguchi, and Hotel Elcient Kyoto. Enjoy amenities like free Wi-Fi, traditional Japanese-style rooms, and hot spring baths, ensuring a comfortable and authentic stay.
Mode of Transport
Travel seamlessly across Japan with included transportation and transfers via buses, trains, and bullet trains. Enjoy the convenience of a Suica swipe card for local travel and a baggage forwarding service from Tokyo to Kyoto, ensuring a hassle-free journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 7 nights in 3-star accommodations, including a stay at a Japanese-style inn (ryokan) where you can experience traditional Japanese hospitality.
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Is there a guide provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour is escorted by a licensed English-speaking Japanese tour guide who will accompany you throughout the trip.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes all transportation and transfers using buses, trains, and bullet trains. A Suica swipe card is also provided for convenience.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes 3 breakfasts and 1 dinner at Lake Kawaguchi. Meals are served in the dining room of the accommodations.
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What is the maximum group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 18 persons, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience.
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Is there a baggage forwarding service available during the tour?
Yes, there is a baggage forwarding service from Tokyo to Kyoto, allowing one bag per person to be forwarded.
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What activities are included in the tour itinerary?
The tour includes guided sightseeing and walking tours in Tokyo, Kamakura, Lake Kawaguchi, and Kyoto. Highlights include visiting temples, shrines, and cultural districts, as well as experiencing a traditional tea ceremony and hot spring baths.
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Is there an airport transfer included in the tour?
Yes, an airport arrival transfer to the tour hotel is included, using a train from Narita or Haneda International Airport on day 1.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.