9D Japan's Golden Route

Tokyo – Hakone – Nara - Kyoto – Hiroshima – Osaka

Price from: $8786 per person on Twin sharing basis

Experience the best of Japan on the iconic Golden Route, a perfect blend of futuristic cities, rich traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural treasures. This 9-day journey takes you through Japan’s most celebrated destinations, including vibrant Tokyo, historic Kyoto and scenic Mount Fuji. Explore ancient temples, majestic shrines, bustling streets, and world-famous landmarks while discovering Japan’s unique harmony of modern innovation and timeless heritage

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Tokyo

Arrive in Tokyo and transfer to the Hotel in a shared coach.

Day 2

Tokyo (B)

Experience the vibrant heart of Tokyo on a guided half-day tour using the city’s efficient public transportation system. Begin with a visit to the iconic Tokyo Skytree, where you will ascend to the Tembo Deck Observatory (350m) for breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis. Continue to the historic Imperial Palace, home to Japan’s Imperial Family, and admire the beautiful Nijubashi Bridge, one of Tokyo’s most photographed landmarks.

Explore the serene landscapes of Gaien National Garden, offering a peaceful contrast to the city’s urban energy, before heading to Akihabara, Tokyo’s famous district known for electronics, anime, manga, and pop culture.

The tour concludes at Akihabara, after which you can make your own way back to your hotel, giving you the flexibility to continue exploring Tokyo at your own pace.

Day 3

Tokyo – Kamakura - Tokyo (B)

Make your own way to the designated meeting point and join a shared coach tour to explore the historic charm and scenic beauty of Kamakura and Enoshima. Visit the iconic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, one of Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrines, followed by a visit to Hase-dera Temple, known for its beautiful gardens and stunning views of the coastline. Continue to Kōtoku-in Temple to admire the famous Great Buddha of Kamakura. Later, explore the picturesque island of Enoshima, offering beautiful ocean views, charming streets, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

The tour concludes at Shinjuku Post Office. From there, make your own way back to your hotel.

 

Day 4

Tokyo – Mt. Fuji – Hakone (B/L)

Make your own way to the designated meeting point at Shinjuku Love and join a shared coach tour to discover the breathtaking beauty of Mt. Fuji and Hakone. Visit the iconic Mt. Fuji 5th Station (weather permitting) and enjoy stunning panoramic views of Japan’s most famous mountain. Continue your journey with a relaxing Lake Ashi cruise, surrounded by the scenic landscapes of Hakone. Experience the beauty of the region from above with a thrilling Komagatake Ropeway ride to the summit of Mt. Komagatake, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and lake.

The tour concludes in Hakone, after which guests can make their own way to their hotel for check-in and overnight stay.
 

Day 5

Hakone – Nara – Kyoto (B)

Make your own way to Hakone-Yumoto Station and board the Odakyu Line train to reach Odawara Station. From Odawara, take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (approx. 125 minutes).

Upon arrival in Kyoto, meet your guide and proceed for a private Nara sightseeing tour. Explore the historic city of Nara, including visits to:

Kasuga Taisha Shrine – A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns and serene forest surroundings.
Nara Park – Famous for its free-roaming deer and peaceful landscapes.
Todai-ji Temple – Home to the Great Buddha statue and one of Japan’s most iconic Buddhist temples.

After completing the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kyoto for check-in and overnight stay.
 

Day 6

Kyoto (B)

Make your own way to the designated meeting point and embark on a full-day Kyoto city tour exploring the city’s iconic cultural landmarks. Begin your journey with a visit to the magnificent Nijo Castle, a historic UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful architecture and stunning gardens. Continue to the renowned Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a breathtaking Zen temple covered in gold leaf and surrounded by tranquil landscapes.

Next, visit the elegant Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former residence of Japan’s Imperial family, showcasing traditional Japanese architecture and rich history. In the afternoon, explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its mesmerizing pathway lined with thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates.

Continue to Sanjusangen-do Temple, celebrated for its impressive wooden hall and remarkable collection of Buddhist statues. The final stop is the spectacular Kiyomizu-dera, one of Kyoto’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering stunning views of the city from its famous wooden terrace.

After a day filled with history, spirituality, and breathtaking sights, make your own way back to the hotel.
 

Day 7

Kyoto – Hiroshima – Miyajima – Kyoto (B/L)

Make your own way to Kyoto Station and board the bullet train to Hiroshima. Upon arrival, join a shared coach tour to explore the historic and cultural highlights of Hiroshima and Miyajima Island. Visit the magnificent Hiroshima Castle, learn about the city’s history at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and pay a visit to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its “floating” torii gate. Enjoy some free time at Omote Sando Shopping Street, where you can explore local shops and taste regional delicacies.

After the tour concludes at Hiroshima Station, board the bullet train back to Kyoto (approximately 100 minutes). Upon arrival, make your own way back to your hotel.
 

Day 8

Kyoto (B)

Day free at leisure.

Day 9

Kyoto - Kansai (B)

Make your way to Kansai Osaka Airport for your onward flight.

Private program - can start any day of the week and can be modified or operated in reverse

Included: Accommodation in 4* Hotels, meals as shown above, transfers & sightseeing using air-conditioned private car, local English speaking guides, entrance fees at monuments, 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 till 31 March 2027. 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.