Japan’s 9-Day Independent

You finally reach Tokyo, the vibrant metropolis of Japan, after a protracted travel. The efficient and spotlessly clean surroundings of Narita or Haneda Airport meet you as soon as you get off the plane. Take a minute to enjoy the thrill of being somewhere new, where there are countless opportunities for exploration.

­Hotel check-in:

You are prepared to begin your Tokyo experience after a brief drive from the airport to your hotel. The hotel staff greets you pleasantly and gives you all the information you need for your stay, making check-in quick and easy. Knowing that you are in the centre of one of the world’s most vibrant cities, take a moment to relax and freshen yourself in your cosy lodging.

Leisure Time:

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You have the remainder of the day to spend exploring the nearby area around your accommodation and familiarising yourself with the local area. Depending on where you are, you may be in the bustling Shinjuku neighbourhood, the posh retail destination of Ginza, or the historic Asakusa neighbourhood. Enjoy a leisurely walk, take in Tokyo’s sights and noises, and maybe savour some delectable street cuisine or shop for trinkets at neighbourhood stores.

Point of departure
Your lodging at Tokyo Prefecture 105-0011, Japan, 芝パークホテル, 芝公園1-5-10, 㝱京ヽ

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Concerning the activity

Take a bus tour of Tokyo’s main sights. Meiji Shrine, the imperial palace, and Sensoij Temple in Asakusa are good places to experience Japanese history in the morning. Next, take a Tokyo Bay Cruise and see the Tokyo Sky Tree Tower to get a sense of modern Japan.­

Meet the Shinjyuku Love Statue at 07:50.

08:00 Drive by Kabuki Cho to depart from Love Statue

Meiji Jingu Shinto Shrine, 08:30–09:20

Imperial Palace (see the East Garden or the Nijyubashi Bridge in the outer garden) 09:30–10:20

­11:00–13:10 Nakamise commercial strip, Kaminari-mon, and Asakusa Sensoji temple

­Sky Stree in Tokyo, 13:30–15:00. Avoid waiting in line to enter the 350-meter-high observatory

15:40–16:30 The Bay Side region of Odaiba, Tokyo

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16:40–17:00 Bay Cruise in Tokyo

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The excursion concludes at Shinjyuku station between 17:30 and 18:00.

Contains

Macha gelato or macha drink, Lunch and a soft drink sail around Tokyo Bay, English-speaking tour guide, bus (multilingual audio guide: English, Spanish, French, Italian, Chinese, Indonesia, Thai, Ukrainian/Russian, The cost of admission to the 350-meter Sky Tree observation platform

Excluded

Pickup from the hotel, gratuities

Japan’s capital, Tokyo, is home to one of the world’s biggest cities. Japan’s financial hub, Tokyo, combines modern technology with traditional elements. Tokyo is a large, modern metropolis that is well-organised. Temples and shrines, serene natural reserves, ancient structures, futuristic architecture, and neon lights make up Tokyo’s urban landscape. Chuo and Chiyoda are located in the city centre. The stunning Imperial Palace, the national government buildings, the renowned Ginza shopping district, the Tsukiji fish market, the Akihabara electronics market, and the ancient Tokyo Station are all located in this neighbourhood.

Some must-see sights in the peaceful Asakusa neighbourhood include the Sensoji Temple, the Golden Poo, and the Nakamise-dōri retail district. The Ameyoko market and the Ueno neighbourhood are nearby. A fantastic place to see a Buddhist temple and purchase for traditional goods. The Meiji Shrine, which is situated in Shibuya, is another popular destination in the city. With its bustling commercial districts, well-known nightlife, historical landmarks, serene parks, and breathtaking scenery, Tokyo is a city that has something to offer everyone.

­As you think back on your enjoyable day in Tokyo, which was full of interesting discoveries and unforgettable experiences, you’ll realise how the city offers a distinctive fusion of contemporary and heritage that appeals to all types of tourists. Tokyo never fails to enthral and inspire, whether you’re touring historical sites, enjoying in delectable cuisine, or just taking in the lively atmosphere.

One of Japan’s principal hot spring (onsen) regions, Hakone lies near Tokyo and has preserved its natural beauty without the need for man-made development. A cheap ticket that covers all of Hakone’s well-known tourist attractions is the Hakone Freepass. In addition to granting free access inside the chosen area and a round-trip ticket on the Odakyu Line, the Hakone Freepass also contained various discounts at the particular sightseeing destination. This pass has a validity period of either two or three days. Eight distinct local transit systems, including the Hakone Tozan Line, the Hakone Ropeway, the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, and others, are accessible with the pass.

enabling you to freely explore Hakone during your trip. Take advantage of the affordable and practical Hakone Freepass to have an amazing trip to Hakone.

­This pass includes the following modes of transport:

­Odakyu Lines round-trip ticket (from Shinjuku Station to Odawara Station)

­*There is an additional cost if you want to take the Limited Express Romancecar.

­Unlimited trips on the Hakone area’s 8 transit system

­1. Train Hakone Tozan

­2. Tozan Cable Car in Hakone

­3. The Hakone Ropeway

­4. Sightseeing Cruise on Hakone

­5. Hakone Tozan Bus (exclusive to specific regions)

­6. Odakyu Hakone Highway Bus (only accessible in selected spots)

­7. Tokai Bus (exclusive to designated locations)

­8. The Tourist Attraction Sightseeing Bus “KANKO SHISETSU-MEGURI”

­Point of meeting

Shinjuku West’s Odakyu Sightseeing Service Centre

Check out of your Hakone lodging at the start of the day. Say goodbye to the breathtaking scenery of this mountainous area and take a time to appreciate the tranquil surroundings.

­You can freely tour Hakone’s attractions at your own leisure if you have the Hakone 2-Day Pass. The pass includes a number of transportation alternatives, including the Hakone Tozan Train, Hakone Tozan Cable Car, Hakone Ropeway, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, and Hakone Tozan Bus, which you can select from based on your interests.

­When you’re prepared to leave Hakone, make use of your Hakone 2-Day Pass to take advantage of the transport services that are included for your trip to Kyoto. Whether you decide to take the bus, train, or a mix of the two,

For your transfer, the pass offers flexibility and ease.

­Once you arrive in Kyoto, head to your lodging and get settled for the duration of your visit to the cultural centre of Japan. After your trip, take some time to rest and rejuvenate. You could even want to change before you go out and visit the city.

­Kyoto was Japan’s capital for more than a millennium and is arguably the country’s best-preserved city. It’s a stunning, energetic city where traditional Japanese culture and modern life coexist. The city serves as an ideal starting point for trips to the Kansai region and is encircled by the Western Honshu mountains. The city has a wealth of cultural landmarks.It is rather easy to get around and offers a wide selection of restaurants. Every architectural design and custom reflects its rich cultural legacy. Among the scores of temples and shrines in Kyoto are the magnificent golden Kinkaku-ji, the Zen garden of Ryoanji, the well-known Kiyomizu-dera, the life-size sculptures of Kannon at Sanjusangendo, and the more serene Tenryu-ji near Arashiyama. The well-known Bamboo Grove is located in Arashiyama as well. A walking tour of Gion, one of the primary Geisha areas in Kyoto, is a fantastic activity. Its wooden structures and lighting provide the ideal atmosphere. With its many temples, shrines, teahouses, and imperial homes, Kyoto is one of the world’s most ancient cities.Anyone interested in Japanese history and culture must visit Kyoto, a city rich in tradition and legacy.

Take a comfy bus tour to see Kyoto’s most well-known sites in a single day.

­There are roughly two hours of free time in the Bamboo Forest area of Arashiyama.

­ There is a multilingual audio guide accessible on board in English, Chinese, and Korean.

­Duration of operation:

­Make a plan

­Kyoto Day Tour (Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple)

­ With an audio guide in English, Chinese, and Korean

­About six hours

­The tour does not include lunch. Alternatively, travellers are free to eat lunch wherever they like in the Arashiyama area.

­[You and the BE course will ride together.]

­ ­9:50 Gather at the Kyoto Sightseeing Bus Terminal’s Karasuma Exit at JR Kyoto Station.

In order to swap your boarding ticket, please arrive at least 20 minutes prior to departure and present your voucher on a paper or mobile device. To swap the ticket, please allow yourself more time.

­You cannot use a paper or mobile voucher to board the bus.

Departure at 10:10

­Explore Arashiyama, the bamboo grove, and Tenryu-ji Temple by foot (140 minutes, including time to visit Tenryu-ji Temple).

­After lunch in Arashiyama, go independently to the Tenryu-ji Garden (entry charge included).

­You are only permitted to enter Tenryu-ji Temple’s garden.

­As you stroll around Arashiyama, you will receive the following savings.

­(1) Arashiyama Music Box Museum entry discounts (some days are closed)

­(2) Yakata bune and rickshaw ride discounts

­(3) Footbath discounts using

(4) Reduced costs for shopping, dining, and beverages

­Kinkakuji takes forty minutes.

­Kinkakuji, officially known as Rokuonji, is renowned for its glistening lacquered gold-leaf relic hall and represents the Kitayama culture period of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. Kinkakuji’s reflection on the lake’s surface displays the various faces of each season.
Shrine of Fushimi Inari (70 minutes)
Of the 30,000 Inari Taisha shrines across the country, Fushimi Inari Taisha is the principal shrine. The “Senbon Torii,” a row of vermillion torii gates, is a must-see, and it is also the top tourist destination for Westerners travelling to Japan. Enjoy an enigmatic Japanese setting that transports you to a different planet.
16:15 Reach the projected end of the Kyoto Sightseeing Bus Terminal at JR Kyoto Station Karasuma Exit.

­Accessible Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed

­Time of start: 10:00–10:00

Contains

Japanese guide to bus fares Admission charge Audio guide in English, Chinese, and Korean on board

Excluded

Lunch

Point of meeting

Kyoto Station, 600-8216 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto.

­From March 20, 2024, to April 10, 2024, this tour is completely booked. Therefore, the “Sky Hop Bus Kyoto (Hop-on Hop-off Bus Kyoto)” tour will be run in its place.

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Check out of your Kyoto lodging first thing in the morning. Before leaving this ancient city, pause to enjoy the calm atmosphere of Kyoto’s traditional neighbourhoods.

Set out on a seamless rail transfer from Kyoto to Osaka, which normally takes 30 to 45 minutes. After arriving in Osaka, proceed to your lodging to unpack and change before beginning your free day in the city.Osaka is a large, contemporary Japanese metropolis. It is the largest of the three cities of Osaka, Kobe, and Kyoto and the hub of the Kansai region. It is a vibrant, energetic location that has a certain allure. It is well situated near the major cultural hubs of Kyoto and Nara, has a rich history, stunning landscape, and is only a few hours away from Tokyo by bullet train. Kita, on the north side, and Minami, on the south side, are Osaka’s two main city centres. Minami is Osaka’s most well-known entertainment district, whereas Kita is a sizable business and retail neighbourhood. The magnificent, exquisitely renovated castle and the absolutely amazing aquarium are Osaka’s main draws. Osaka boasts a thriving nightlife, delicious local food, and some impressive modern architecture.Go to the busy Dōtonbori, a street teeming with eateries and bars, to enjoy the city’s nightlife. Just beyond the city are some stunning locations to see as well. Minoo, a suburb of Osaka, has hiking trails, a tranquil spa, a beautiful waterfall, and a lovely woodland. Osaka offers all the pleasures of a contemporary Japanese city along with historical, cultural, and artistic attractions. The third-largest city in Japan has a vibrant atmosphere and excellent access to some of the country’s oldest cities.

Discover the real Osaka by spending a day with one of our hosts; be warned, it has a crazy sense of humour and is food-obsessed. We want you to be an explorer, not a tourist, so you may explore areas like trendy Shinsaibashi or chaotic Dotonbori, and perhaps you’ll find hidden treasures like the little temples and historic streets. Before continuing your journey through the neon streets of this mysterious port city, stop for a short bite to eat and discover why Osaka is referred to as the “Nation’s Kitchen.”

You will receive a brief quiz about your interests and personality within 24 hours of making your reservation. You will be paired with a host who shares your interests based on your answers. Your host will get in touch with you personally to recommend an itinerary that will assist you learn about the city’s distinctive features. You will also decide on a time and location for the meeting. You can always change your mind about what you want to do during the experience because your itinerary is changeable.

­Contains

Hotel pickup (available upon request for a central location), a walking trip lasting three, four, six, or eight hours, during which you can discover hidden treasures and landmarks, A customised and private walking tour led by an enthusiastic local

­Excluded

Admission to any attractions, Drinks and food, Transportation (mostly walking, but public transportation is an option), Gratuities are optional.

Take your time visiting Osaka during the day. Take a stroll through lively areas like Dotonbori, where you can eat delectable street cuisine and take pictures of famous sites. For a taste of the city’s rich history, visit historic locations like Shitennoji Temple or Osaka Castle. Enjoy some shopping at Shinsaibashi or relax in one of the peaceful parks in the city. On your free day, Osaka provides countless chances for exploration and leisure, regardless of your preferences.As your free day in Osaka comes to a close, pause to consider the memories and experiences you have made while seeing this energetic city. Osaka has surely made an effect on you, whether you have explored its vibrant streets, indulged in its cuisine, or fully immersed yourself in its cultural legacy. Keep these priceless memories with you and cherish them for years to come as your journey draws to a close and you say goodbye to Osaka. Have a safe trip!