10Days Essential Japan
Price from: $5599 per person on Twin sharing basis.
Tokyo - Hakone - Kyota - Tokyo
Day 1: Tokyo
Arrive in Tokyo and shared coach transfer to Hotel
Day 2: Tokyo (B)
This morning, take a tour starting with a visit to Meiji Shrine, most famous Shinto shrines, dedicated to the deified spirits of the former Emperor and his wife. Next, stroll down Omotesando, a tree-lined boulevard flanked by impressive buildings housing top fashion brands. A jolt to the senses, leave behind this ultra-modern bustle to discover traditionally styled district, Asakusa, home to charming shops and restaurants, and the oldest temple in the city, Sensoji.
Enter this 7th century Buddhist temple through Thunder Gate, indicated by a massive red lantern. Walk along Nakamise Street, a centuries old souvenir street of 96 stalls. Board a Sumida river cruise for a refreshing view of the old town as well as Tokyo Skytree and other notable skyscrapers on the riverside highlights the evolution of this dynamic city. Disembark at Hamarikyu Garden and stroll through these beautiful grounds, to a floating pavilion originally built by a famous shogun, where you’ll enjoy a cup of matcha tea and Japanese sweets. Return to your hotel.
Day 3: Tokyo (B)
Day at leisure
Day 4: Tokyo- Hakone (B/D)
This morning, take a train to Hakone to enjoy the healing powers of Hakone’s natural hot springs and magnificent panoramic views of Mount Fuji, looming over Lake Ashi. Enjoy a delicious Japanese dinner.
Day 5: Hakone-Kyoto (B)
Explore the City of Ten Thousand Temples and hope for a glimpse of a geisha. Take a train to Kyoto and transfer to Hotel.
Day 6: Kyoto (B)
This morning, visit Kyoto to see its classic cultural treasures, starting with the glittering Kinkakuji Temple, built as a retirement villa for the Shogun and later converted into a Buddhist temple. Visit Nijo Castle, built by Shogun in 1603, is one of the most famous and ornate castles in the country. Surrounded by stunning gardens, the castle is full of spectacular architectural details, from beautifully painted sliding doors to lush, detailed carvings from floor to ceiling.
Next, head to Heian Shrine, a marvellous and breathtaking shrine. Admire the beautiful structure with its bright vermillion columns and complimentary jade tiled roofs.
Next stop is at Kiyomizudera Temple, another impressive preserved area. Enjoy the majestic views from the 13 meter high veranda , before taking a sip from one of the three streams of fresh mountain water, which will grant you fortune in love, studies or elongate your life.
Day 7: Kyoto (B)
Discover the charm of Arashiyama starting with Okochi Mountain Villa, considered the finest example of traditional Japanese residential architecture in the country. After a short stroll through the bamboo grove, stop at Nonomiya Shrine before continuing your walk through the grove.
Finish off at Tenryuji Temple, a 14th century temple built by ruling Shogun Ashikaga Takauji to appease the spirit of Emporer Go-Daigo. Take in the simplistic beauty of this important Zen Temple, before exploring its grounds. Take a moment to contemplate and put your mind at ease, before returning to Kyoto.
Day 8: Kyoto (B)
Day at leisure
Day 9: Kyoto-Tokyo (B)
Take a train to Tokyo and make your way to the Hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Day 10: Tokyo (B)
Make your way to the train station and board a train to the Airport to connect your onward flight.
Included: Accommodation for 9 nights in 3* Hotels, Tours and transfers by public transport, train tickets, Hakan pass, IC card and guide service during sightseeing. Current taxes, 24-hours local contact number for emergencies.
Note: Please contact us if you require more information on different Hotel categories.
Prices quoted are valid from 01 March - 30 September 2022. Cost above is indicative, based on Low Season in NZ Dollars and subject to change due to fluctuation in exchange rates. Please read T&C before booking. Call 09 410 5060 or 0508 EXOTIC (0508 396 842) or email info@exoticholidays.co.nz for more information.