Story of Japan
Independent Tour
Explore the story and history of Japan on this fascinating 2-week tour. Explore the sights, sounds and tastes of Tokyo and the history and culture of Kyoto. Tour to Nara, Japan’s first capital and Nagasaki, and many more historic sites that date back centuries. A stay in a traditional ryokan is sure to be a highlight, a unique opportunity to experience the traditional Japanese lifestyle and hospitality.
Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9
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Day 10
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Day 11
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Day 12
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Day 13
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Day 14
Day 1 : Tokyo
On arrival in Tokyo, you will be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel, check in for your 3-night stay.
Day 2 : Tokyo
Enjoy a 4-hour private tour of Tokyo’s main highlights with an English-speaking guide. Begin your day with a visit to Asakusa District, once an entertainment district in the Edo era, but now, home to charming shops and restaurants and the oldest temple in the city, Sensoji. You will also visit Meiji Shrine, one of the most famous Shinto shrines and then to Shibuya, one of the most famous shopping locations in Tokyo.
Day 3 : Tokyo
The day is free until late afternoon. At approx. 5.30pm meet your guide for an evening to experience the fun of izakaya, a centuries old pastime and Japan’s favourite after work activity. At your first stop at Monzen Nakacho station, you’ll find Tatsumi Shindo, a street that’s a slice of Tokyo in the olden days. Wander through the narrow walkway and take in the quaint atmosphere of the small izakaya pubs. Now it’s time to dash over to Yurakucho, where underneath the train overpasses lie an abundance of street-side eateries. Take in the bustle as you sit amongst friendly locals and taste some mouthwatering foods, particularly yakitori, grilled chicken skewers that pair perfectly with a cold glass of sake or beer. At the end of the tour, your guide can either return you to your hotel or you can explore some other great izakaya joints at the suggestion of your guide.
Day 4 : Tokyo - Kyoto
Journey through the foothills of the iconic Mount Fuji to its base and the Fuji Five Lakes. The region is spectacularly dotted by the calm waters of five lakes, formed by past volcanic eruptions, reflecting Mount Fuji’s picture-perfect cone. Upon arrival, ascend 2,000 metres up to Mount Fuji’s 5th Station (weather permitting) and take in the breathtaking views over the landscapes below. Next, continue to Itchiku Kubota Art Museum to view the artist’s elaborate dyed silk creations and spend some time strolling around the beautiful garden. Also explore Iyashi no Sato Historical Village, a former farming village on the shores of Lake Saiko. Destroyed by a landslide in 1966, the remaining thatch-roofed houses of this old village have been transformed into an open-air museum and craft village. Stay overnight in Mishima and enjoy the public onsen facilities.
Day 5 : Kyoto
Explore the former imperial capital of Japan with a knowledgeable local guide, utilising Kyoto’s comprehensive bus system to visit some of the city’s famous World Heritage Sites. Start your day with a visit to Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion); see Nijo Castle, an ornamental castle built by the founder of the Edo Shogunate surrounded by stunning gardens, famous for its architecture, decorated sliding doors and ‘chirping’ nightingale floors; Heian Shrine, and Kiyomizu Temple (Pure Water Temple) where you can enjoy the panoramic views of Kyoto from the 13 metre high veranda jutting out from the Main Hall.
Day 6 : Kyoto
Meet your guide as you board the local train to Kawazu. This is the best spot to see early cherry blossoms. This early flowering variety of cherry tree starts opening around the beginning of February, these trees bloom slower and last longer compared to the most typical variety.The tour will end back in Atami.
Day 7 : Nagasaki
Transfer to the station today and take the bullet train to Nagasaki (change of train may be required enroute). On arrival, check in for your 2-night stay.
Day 8 : Nagasaki
Join your guide for a full day tour to explore the highlights of Nagasaki. Your day begins with a visit to Nagasaki Peace Park which commemorates the atomic bombing of Nagasaki in August 1945, the park is home to the massive Peace Statue as well as various other memorials. Next head to Dejima, which was a man-made island in the port of Nagasaki, constructed in 1636, no longer an island as the surrounding area has been reclaimed however, a number of Dejima's historical structures remain, After Dejima, take the tram to visit Glover Garden, an open air museum, exhibiting mansions of former Western residents of Nagasaki. Last on your itinerary today is Chinatown and a view of the Meganebashi ("Spectacles Bridge"). Shinchi Chinatown, is Japan's oldest Chinatown. established as early as the 17th century, due to the fact that Nagasaki's port remained the country's only major port opened to Chinese trade during the era of isolation. You are free to end your tour here or if you would like to stay and explore on your own and maybe enjoy dinner or your guide can return you to your hotel.
Day 9 : Kurokawa Onsen
Board your bullet train to Shin-Tosu, on arrival a transfer will take you to your hotel. Enjoy 2 nights at the unique Hozantei ryokan, located upstream on the river running through Kurokawa Onsen.
Day 10 : Kurokawa Onsen
A free day to relax at your traditional ryokan. Whatever season you can enjoy the beautiful scenery from your room and experience utmost relaxation. Hozantei is a calming spa resort where you can be fully relaxed with nature. Your stay here is on a half board basis.
Day 11 : Fukuoka
You will be met at your hotel before your private transfer to Fukuoka. Check in for your 2-night stay at the remainder of the day is free.
Day 12 : Fukuoka
Board your next train to Kyoto. Meet your guide and your Kyoto adventure begins. Your first stop will be Kiyomizudera, one of the most celebrated temples in Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Kiyomizudera and Otowa Waterfall. You will also experience a traditional kimono wearing tea ceremony with a Tea Master at Kyo-machiya traditional wooden house.
Day 13 : Tokyo
Your final rail journey today returns you to Tokyo for one final night.
Day 14 : Departure
Your package ends with the check out from your hotel and a private transfer to the airport.
