Start in Tokyo / End in Kyoto Tokyo / Nara / Kyoto
Discover Japan’s Cultural Heart – A 7-Day Private Tour of Tokyo, Nara & Kyoto
Experience the perfect introduction to Japan on this 7-day private tour, designed to take you through the vibrant cityscapes of Tokyo, the spiritual calm of Nara, and the rich cultural elegance of Kyoto. With a combination of guided sightseeing and flexible free time, you’ll explore ancient temples, modern neighborhoods, peaceful shrines, and bustling markets. Travel by bullet train, stay in comfortable accommodations, and enjoy a thoughtfully curated itinerary that balances the must-see landmarks with space to experience Japan at your own pace. Whether it’s your first time visiting or a return trip, this tour offers a deep, rewarding look into Japan’s heritage, daily life, and seasonal beauty—with all the support you need for a smooth and enriching journey.
Take a day to explore Kyoto at your own pace or join an optional tour to Osaka, Universal Studios Japan, or Hiroshima and Miyajima.
Osaka CastleAmusement Parks in JapanHiroshima TourMiyajima
Day 7 : Departure from Kyoto
Enjoy a peaceful morning in Kyoto with the option to visit Fushimi Inari Shrine before your private transfer to the airport.
Departure
Your discovery of Japan starts in Tokyo, where you will do a fun and insightful private tour of the city on your 2nd day. You will do similar guided day tours in Nara and Kyoto, and there will be plenty of time for extra experiences in the schedule as well. We offer optional tours, or we can give you personalized advice on fun and interesting activities to do by yourself.
So what is the best time to come to Japan? Which season you can best come to Japan depends on what you want to see and experience, and how important it is to you to avoid larger crowds. All seasons have their pros and cons, and you can click on the link to each article about the season if you would like to know more about traveling in spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Day 1 : Arrival in Tokyo – Meet & Greet, Free Afternoon to Explore
Welcome to Japan! Upon your arrival at Narita or Haneda Airport, an English-speaking assistant will greet you and help you board the transfer bus to your hotel in Tokyo. After check-in, the afternoon is yours to enjoy freely. Whether you prefer to relax after your flight or head out to explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, shopping streets, or parks, we’re happy to provide suggestions to help you make the most of your first day in Japan.
Accommodation: Shinagawa Prince Hotel or similar Meals: Not included ( – / – / – )
Day 2 : Tokyo City Tour – Tradition, Subculture & Urban Icons
After breakfast, your private guide will meet you at your hotel lobby at 9 AM for a full-day exploration of Tokyo, combining its traditional charm, vibrant subcultures, and iconic urban sights. Begin the day in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most historic districts. Visit Senso-ji Temple, explore the famous Nakamise shopping street, and wander through side alleys where your guide will share insights into local life and hidden history.
Next, dive into Akihabara, the center of Tokyo’s anime, gaming, and electronics culture. Your guide will introduce you to the area’s fascinating subcultures and hidden gems, with a chance to try a high-energy interactive game experience. Continue to the Imperial Palace Plaza, where you’ll see the elegant outer grounds of the Emperor’s residence, including the iconic Megane Bridge and stone walls that once guarded Edo Castle.
End the day in Shibuya, famous for its bustling Scramble Crossing and the touching story of Hachiko, the loyal dog whose statue stands near the station. Your guide will help you navigate this lively district and suggest places to explore after the tour.
As this is a private tour, the itinerary is flexible—feel free to consult with your guide if you’d like to make changes based on your interests.
Accommodation: Shinagawa Prince Hotel or similar Meals: Breakfast and Lunch included (B / L / -)
Day 3 : Free Day in Tokyo – Explore at Your Own Pace
Today is a free day to enjoy Tokyo on your own terms. Whether you prefer to explore more of the city’s must-see highlights, venture into local neighborhoods, or even take a short day trip outside the city, there are plenty of options to suit your interests.
Your guide from Day 2 can offer personalized suggestions, or you can consider the following:
Major Highlights Not Covered on Day 2 • Meiji Shrine – A peaceful forested shrine near trendy Harajuku • Harajuku – Youth fashion, quirky shops, and colorful sweets • Ginza – Tokyo’s upscale shopping and dining district
Off-the-Beaten-Path Districts • Shibamata, Kagurazaka, Monzennakacho, Nihonbashi – Old Tokyo charm and traditional atmosphere • Shimokitazawa, Koenji, Kiyosumi – Artsy, youthful areas filled with cafés, vintage stores, and local flavor • Nakano and Ikebukuro – Great for anime, manga, and subculture fans
Recommended Day Trips • Nikko – Rich in nature and UNESCO-listed shrines • Kawaguchiko – A stunning lake near Mt. Fuji • Hakone – Hot springs, views, and open-air museums • Kamakura – Temples, a giant Buddha, and a relaxed seaside vibe
Evening Suggestions • Shimbashi/Yurakucho – Casual izakaya and local nightlife • Shinjuku – Endless options for food, shopping, and city views
Accommodation: Shinagawa Prince Hotel or similar Meals: Breakfast and Lunch included (B / L / -)
Day 4 : Tokyo to Kyoto – Nara’s Spiritual Heritage and Sacred Deer
This morning, an English-speaking assistant will meet you at your hotel and escort you to the station for your journey aboard the shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto—an efficient and comfortable ride that takes just under two hours. Upon arrival in Kyoto, you’ll be met by another local guide, who will assist with dropping off your luggage at your hotel before continuing your day with a guided afternoon tour to Nara by local train.
In Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital, you’ll visit: • Todaiji Temple – A UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the Great Buddha, one of the largest bronze statues of Buddha in the world, inside one of the largest wooden buildings ever built • Nara Park – Stroll among the friendly, free-roaming deer, considered messengers of the gods in Shinto belief • Kofukuji Temple – An important ancient temple with a five-story pagoda, once part of a powerful temple complex
After your visit, return to Kyoto where your guide will drop you off at your accommodation.
Accommodation: New Miyako Hotel or a traditional ryokan for a cultural overnight experience Meals: Breakfast and Lunch included (B / L / -)
Day 5 : Kyoto Cultural Highlights – Temples, Gardens & Geisha Districts
This morning, your private guide will meet you at your hotel at 9 AM for a full-day exploration of Kyoto, combining serene nature, iconic temples, and insights into Japan’s traditional arts and customs. Begin your day with a peaceful stroll along the Philosopher’s Path, a stone walkway following a canal lined with cherry trees and maples. Especially beautiful in spring or autumn, this area offers a tranquil start to your day before the crowds arrive.
Next, visit Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion), a Zen temple that was once a shogun’s retirement villa. It became a cultural hub during the Muromachi period and played a vital role in shaping Japan’s aesthetics—your guide will explain the temple’s significance and the philosophy behind its minimalist design and gardens. Continue on to Heian Shrine, known for its grand torii gate and spacious, peaceful grounds. Modeled after the original Imperial Palace, the shrine offers a glimpse into Kyoto’s more recent Meiji-era spiritual heritage.
Later in the afternoon, head to Gion, Kyoto’s most iconic geisha district. With its traditional wooden architecture and narrow alleys, Gion captures the elegance of old Kyoto. Your guide will share stories of geiko (Kyoto’s geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha), and if you’re lucky, you may spot one heading to a teahouse for her evening engagement. You’ll also receive tips for enjoying the area on your own after the tour.
As this is a private tour, the itinerary is flexible—feel free to discuss any changes with your guide.
Accommodation: New Miyako Hotel or similar Meals: Breakfast and Lunch included (B / L / -)
Day 6 : Free Day in Kyoto – Explore at Your Own Pace or Join an Optional Tour
Today is a free day to enjoy Kyoto on your own terms. You can continue discovering the city’s rich cultural heritage, take time to relax, or choose from a selection of optional full-day excursions to nearby cities and attractions.
Suggestions for Self-Guided Exploration in Kyoto: • Visit Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) or Ryoanji’s Zen rock garden • Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryuji Temple • Stroll through the historic Higashiyama district or shop for crafts at Nishiki Market • Relax in a traditional teahouse or visit a local museum
Optional Tours (Advance booking required): • Osaka Day Tour – Explore Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Kuromon Market • Universal Studios Japan – A full day of entertainment with attractions like Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter • Hiroshima & Miyajima – Visit the Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, and Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its floating torii gate
Whether you stay local or head out on an optional adventure, this day is yours to shape.
Accommodation: New Miyako Hotel or similar Meals: Breakfast and Lunch included (B / L / -)
Day 7 : Free Morning in Kyoto & Departure
Depending on your flight time, you may have a free morning to enjoy one last walk through Kyoto. If you haven’t had the chance yet, we recommend an early morning visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its endless path of red torii gates and peaceful mountain setting—especially quiet and atmospheric in the early hours. When it’s time, a private van transfer will take you to the airport for your departure flight.
Thank you very much for visiting Japan. We hope you’ve made unforgettable memories and look forward to welcoming you again someday. If you’re considering extending your stay, feel free to mention it in your inquiry form—we’ll be happy to help you plan the rest of your journey.
Meals: Breakfast included (B / – / -)
Arrival and departure: Start in Tokyo and end in Kyoto Tour date: set your own dates Tour price: USD 2,080 per person (based on twin/triple room occupancy) Tour price for solo traveler: USD 2,780 Child price (age 4-11): USD 1,880 Optional: Ryokan Experience and Kaiseki Dinner Plan for Day 4 (only one night in Kyoto): an additional USD 120 per person
INCLUDED
6 nights Western-style accommodation Meet and greet upon arrival at Narita or Haneda Airport Airport transfers on arrival and departure One 8-hour private guided tour in Tokyo and one 8-hour private guided tour in Kyoto Meals as described in the itinerary Admission fees to sites, gardens, and museums listed in the itinerary
Extra: we offer free concierge service by phone or WhatsApp while staying in Japan. Please let us know if you have any requests or need a reservation in a restaurant and we will help you out!
EXCLUDED
International airfares Meals that are not included in the itinerary Travel insurance Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks Personal expenses such as telephone and laundry bills
EXTENDED PLAN
You can also extend your vacation before/after the tour in Tokyo, Osaka, or other areas. We can provide an extension of your stay in the same hotel as during the tour. Please contact us for inquiries!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Arrival / Departure Airports: For arrivals at Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) airport, this tour starts in Tokyo and ends in Osaka, with departures at Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX) Tour schedule and prices subject to change without notice
CANCELLATION POLICY
When you book and pay the deposit, this cancellation policy is started
46 days or more prior to arrival date in Japan: no penalty
45-31 days prior to arrival date in Japan: 10% of the tour fee
30-15 days prior to arrival date in Japan: 20% of the tour fee
14- 8 days prior to arrival date in Japan: 30% of the tour fee
7 – 3 days prior to arrival date in Japan: 50% of the tour fee
Less than 3 days prior to arrival date in Japan: 100% of the tour fee
Feedback From Clients
Rating: 5 out of 5.
Anna Leano – 2022 summer –
We are really grateful we found you guys online, it was truly a great vacation. We had so much fun. And thank you so much for all the help and all the new information we learned about your culture. My daughter is super sad that we are leaving Japan. From day 1 to going home, you were always there assisting us. From the bottom of our hearts, DOMO ARIGATO GOZAIMASU to all!
Rating: 5 out of 5.
Silvana group from Italy – 2022 summer –
We have arrived safely back from Japan and I am back in the office again this morning. I would like to thank you for all the services you gave us, everything was very well organized and professional. Everyone was very kind, always on time, and very nice, including the three guides we had. It was very good and helpful to have guides in cities like Tokyo and Kyoto especially, where we got a lot of good advice and information. Once again thank you very much from me and all the rest of the group. We really enjoyed Japan, it was so different from Italy but so charming! Really hope to come back one day.
