Highlights of Japan - Solo Traveller

Let's start our holiday to Japan. Depart  for Osaka.

We have arrived! Let's meet our local guide, and transfer by coach to our hotel in Kyoto.

Please note:

Breakfast is included at our hotel on each day of our ten night stay in Japan. 

After breakfast, we set off by coach for a fascinating full-day guided tour of Osaka, Japan’s second-largest city, located around an hour from Kyoto.

Our day begins with a chance to discover some of Osaka’s most iconic sights. We visit the historic Sanjusangendo Temple, founded in 1164, before heading to the Umeda Sky Building Observatory, one of Osaka’s most recognisable landmarks and offering spectacular views across the city. We’ll also explore the impressive Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous and treasured attractions.

Later, we take a stroll through the lively district of Dotonbori. Renowned for its dazzling neon lights, colourful atmosphere and larger-than-life signage, this vibrant area is at the heart of Osaka’s renowned food culture and is a true feast for the senses.

After a day filled with unforgettable sights and experiences, we return by coach to our hotel in Kyoto, where there will be time to freshen up before dinner.

We get together and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

After we return to our hotel and relax after a busy day of discovering Osaka.

Today, we embark on a full-day guided tour with our local guide to discover the timeless beauty and cultural treasures of Kyoto, Japan’s ancient imperial capital.

Our first stop is the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Stroll beneath the towering bamboo stalks and soak up the serene atmosphere of this truly unique and unforgettable setting.

Lunch is included today.

We continue our exploration of Kyoto with visits to some of the city’s most celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. First, we visit the magnificent Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), famous for its shimmering gold exterior and picturesque setting beside a tranquil pond and landscaped gardens.

Next, we visit Ryoan-ji Temple, renowned for its world-famous Zen rock garden and traditional Japanese design.

Our journey through Kyoto’s rich history continues at Nijo Castle, the former residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first Tokugawa shogun. This impressive 400-year-old complex features elegant architecture, and beautifully decorated interiors.

After a fascinating day discovering Kyoto’s cultural treasures and historic landmarks, we return to our hotel with time to freshen up before this evening’s activities.
 

This evening, we gather for dinner at a local restaurant, where we’ll experience a captivating aspect of Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage with a traditional Geisha performance.

Sit back and enjoy an enchanting evening of music, dance and timeless Japanese traditions as we reflect on the day’s discoveries. This memorable experience offers a wonderful insight into one of Japan’s most treasured cultural customs and provides the perfect ending to a busy and rewarding day in Kyoto.

Today’s full-day tour combines some of the cultural highlights of Kyoto and Nara.

Our day begins at the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks, renowned for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates and rich spiritual heritage.

We then travel to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital, where we visit Nara Park, home to its famous free-roaming deer, the impressive Tōdai-ji Temple and its giant bronze Buddha, and the beautiful Kasuga Taisha Shrine.

Lunch is included at a local restaurant.

After a fascinating day exploring Nara’s historic temples, shrines and cultural landmarks, we return to Kyoto in the evening. The rest of the evening is at leisure to relax or explore the city at your own pace.

Today is yours to soak up the rhythm and flavours of Kyoto. Discover more Shinto shrines, temples or explore the gardens on offer. Savour some of the unique Japanese dishes or shop till you drop for the quirky souvenirs available.

The day is yours to uncover the wonders of Kyoto! 

For those wishing to explore further, there is an optional full-day guided tour to Hiroshima and Miyajima, prebook able. The tour returns to Kyoto in the late evening.

After breakfast, we take a short walk (approx. 15 minutes) to Kyoto Station for our train to Hiroshima – a comfortable journey of around 1 hour and 45 minutes each way.

Highlights of the day include a ferry ride to Miyajima Island to visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, followed by the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, and the poignant Atomic Bomb Dome.

Lunch at a local restaurant is included.

Please note: This tour is subject to availability and minimum numbers apply. To avoid disappointment, we recommend booking in advance, as it may not be available to book locally.

This morning, we walk to the train station (luggage is transferred separately) for the next part of our adventure. It’s time to experience one of Japan’s iconic “Bullet Trains” as we travel to Odawara in high-speed, a highlight of any trip to Japan.

We say goodbye to our Kyoto guide and board the train – farewell Kyoto, hello Odawara!

On arrival, we meet our new local guide and begin a full-day tour of the beautiful Hakone region, known for its natural hot springs, mountain views, and peaceful lakes.

Today we discover the highlights of Hakone on a guided tour, starting with a visit to the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Set in beautiful landscaped gardens, the museum features a unique collection of sculptures blending art and nature.

Next, we enjoy a relaxing cruise on Lake Ashi, taking in the peaceful surroundings of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

We then ride the Komagatake Ropeway cable car for panoramic views across the region. On a clear day, you’ll have a fantastic photo opportunity of the iconic Mount Fuji. 

Lunch at a local restaurant is included today.

After our day of discovering the highlights of Hakone we transfer to our hotel. 

Sit back, relax and unwind and re-charge for tomorrow's tour. 

Dinner is included tonight.

After checking out of our hotel, we travel by coach towards Tokyo, stopping to explore the historic coastal city of Kamakura.

Our sightseeing begins at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrine and a symbol of the city’s samurai heritage. We then enjoy free time to explore Komachi Street, a lively district lined with traditional shops, cafés and local food stalls.

Lunch is included at a local restaurant.

This afternoon, we visit Kotoku-in Temple, home to Kamakura’s iconic Great Buddha (Daibutsu), Japan’s second-largest bronze Buddha statue. We also explore Hase-dera Temple, renowned for its beautiful gardens, and impressive eleven-headed statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.

After discovering the history, culture and coastal charm of Kamakura, we continue our journey to the vibrant city of Tokyo.

Time to travel onwards to Tokyo! After our full day excursion we make our way to our hotel. Check in and enjoy the evening in Tokyo at leisure.

Today, we discover more of the highlights of Tokyo, Japan’s vibrant and ever evolving capital city.

Our day begins at the Imperial Palace Plaza, home to the Japanese Imperial Family and one of Tokyo’s most important landmarks. We then visit Koishikawa Korakuen, one of the city’s oldest and most beautiful Japanese gardens, renowned for its tranquil landscapes and seasonal beauty.

Next, we explore the peaceful Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Set within a forested sanctuary in the heart of the city, it offers a fascinating contrast to Tokyo’s modern skyline.

We return to our hotel in the late afternoon, with the remainder of the evening at leisure. Perhaps relax in a local café, explore the surrounding neighbourhoods, or visit one of Tokyo’s famous observation decks to enjoy spectacular views of the city lights.

This morning, we continue our exploration of Tokyo, starting with a visit to Ueno Park, famous for its over one thousand cherry trees that create a stunning display in spring.

Next, we dive into Japan’s rich traditions with a tea ceremony, followed by a lesson in the ancient art of Ikebana, Japanese flower arranging.

The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore Tokyo at your own pace. You can shop to your heart’s content in the fashionable Ginza district, perfect for those seeking luxury brands and unique finds.

If you're after something more relaxing, consider a cruise around Tokyo Bay, visit one of the city’s many tranquil parks or temples, or explore its fascinating museums. For something quirky, why not visit one of Tokyo's "cat cafés" to unwind with a matcha tea and a few feline friends?

Our  guide will be happy to suggest even more ways to enhance your time in this exciting city.

Today, we continue exploring the sights and energy of Tokyo on a full-day sightseeing tour.

Our first stop is Asakusa Kannon Temple, Tokyo’s most famous Buddhist temple. We then stroll along nearby Nakamise Street, a bustling shopping arcade filled with traditional snacks, local crafts and unique souvenirs.

Next, we take in panoramic views of the city from either Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo City View. On a clear day, there may even be an opportunity to spot majestic Mount Fuji in the distance.

No visit to Tokyo would be complete without experiencing the world-famous Shibuya Crossing. Join the crowds as we walk across one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world and immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic district.

This evening, dinner is included, providing the perfect opportunity to reflect on another memorable day in Japan’s dynamic capital.

After a busy day of delving into Tokyo's highlights, we enjoy our last dinner together.

Today, our Highlights of Japan tour comes to an end. After making the most of our time exploring Japan’s iconic sights, rich culture and fascinating history, we bid a fond farewell to our guide and transfer to Tokyo Airport for our flight home.

We leave after a memorable and unforgettable journey through this remarkable country.