Start in Tokyo / End in Osaka Tokyo / Nara / Kyoto / Osaka
Experience the Best of Japan on a 9-Day Private Tour
Discover Japan’s rich history, vibrant cities, and breathtaking landscapes on this 9-day private tour, designed for travelers who want a perfect blend of cultural immersion, iconic landmarks, and flexibility. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the historic beauty of Kyoto and Nara, and the lively atmosphere of Osaka, this journey takes you through Japan’s most captivating destinations. Experience the awe-inspiring Mt. Fuji, explore ancient temples, stroll through scenic districts, and indulge in Japan’s world-renowned cuisine. With expert local guides leading you through each city and flexible free days to explore at your own pace, this tour offers the ideal balance between structured sightseeing and personal discovery. Whether it’s your first time in Japan or a long-awaited return, this comprehensive 9-day journey ensures an unforgettable experience tailored just for you.
Explore Osaka or join an optional tour for more adventures
Nintendo WorldHiroshima TourMiyajima
Day 9 : Departure from Japan
Free morning in Osaka → Private airport transfer
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 : Welcome to Japan – Arrival & Free Afternoon in Tokyo
Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival at Narita or Haneda Airport, your private driver will be waiting to greet you after customs clearance. Enjoy a smooth private transfer to your hotel, where you can settle in and prepare for the exciting journey ahead. Check-in is available from 3:00 PM, and the rest of the afternoon is yours to explore Tokyo at your own pace. Whether you prefer to visit a nearby shrine, take a stroll through bustling shopping streets, or simply relax at your hotel, we’re happy to provide recommendations to help you make the most of your time.
Accommodation: Royal Park Iconic Hotel or a similar hotel Meals: Not included (- / – / -)
Day 2 : Discover Tokyo – Tradition, Pop Culture & Iconic Landmarks
Your private guide will meet you at your hotel lobby at 9 AM for a full-day exploration of Tokyo, blending history, tradition, and modern subcultures. Begin the day in Asakusa, Tokyo’s historic district. Wander through the lively Nakamise shopping street, visit the iconic Senso-ji Temple, and discover hidden side streets filled with traditional charm. Next, shift gears as you step into the vibrant world of Akihabara, the heart of anime, gaming, and otaku culture. Your guide will introduce you to Tokyo’s subcultures and take you to some off-the-beaten-path locations. You’ll even get a chance to try a high-energy interactive game.
After the electrifying atmosphere of Akihabara, enjoy a peaceful stroll around the Imperial Palace Plaza, home to the Emperor’s residence. Admire the impressive Megane Bridge and take in the serene surroundings. Then, head to Shibuya, where you’ll experience the world-famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing and visit the beloved Hachiko Statue, a symbol of loyalty and devotion. Don’t worry about navigating the busy streets—your expert guide will lead the way.
・As this is a private tour, you can customize the itinerary with your guide based on your interests.
Accommodation: Royal Park Iconic Hotel or a similar hotel Meals: Breakfast & Lunch included (B / L / -)
Day 3 : Free Day in Tokyo – Explore at Your Own Pace
Today is your free day to explore more of Tokyo’s famous landmarks, hidden gems, and vibrant neighborhoods at your own pace. Your guide can provide personalized recommendations at the end of Day 2, or you can refer to our suggestions below.
Top Attractions to Explore: Meiji Shrine & Harajuku – A mix of sacred tranquility and Tokyo’s youth fashion scene Ginza – Luxury shopping, department stores, and high-end dining
Off-the-Beaten-Path Neighborhoods: Shibamata, Kagurazaka, Monzennakacho, Nihonbashi – Historic districts with a nostalgic feel Shimokitazawa, Koenji, Kiyosumi – Trendy, artistic neighborhoods with vintage shops and cafes Nakano & Ikebukuro – A paradise for anime, gaming, and subculture fans
Day Trip Options from Tokyo: Nikko – Stunning shrines and beautiful nature Kawaguchiko – Lake views with breathtaking Mt. Fuji scenery Hakone – Hot springs and scenic cable car rides Kamakura – Coastal town with the Great Buddha and historic temples
Evening Dining & Nightlife Suggestions: Shimbashi/Yurakucho – Izakaya-style dining in a lively atmosphere Shinjuku – Bustling nightlife with everything from fine dining to street food
Take this opportunity to explore Tokyo in your own way, whether it’s revisiting favorite spots or discovering something new!
Accommodation: Royal Park Iconic Hotel or a similar hotel Meals: Breakfast included (B / – / -)
Day 4 : Bullet Train to Kyoto & Nara’s Timeless Treasures
This morning, your English-speaking assistant will meet you at your hotel and escort you to the bullet train station. Board the shinkansen to Kyoto, a smooth and scenic journey that takes approximately two hours. Upon arrival in Kyoto, a new private guide will welcome you and assist with dropping off your luggage at your hotel before heading to Nara by local train.
In Nara, explore some of Japan’s most significant cultural and historical sites: • Todaiji Temple – Home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), one of the largest bronze statues in the world, housed in a massive wooden temple. • Nara Park – Famous for its friendly free-roaming deer, which are considered sacred messengers of the gods. • Kofukuji Temple – A historic temple known for its five-story pagoda, a symbol of Nara’s rich Buddhist heritage.
After an insightful tour of Nara, return to Kyoto, where your guide will drop you off at your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Accommodation: Century Hotel Kyoto or a traditional ryokan experience Meals: Breakfast & Lunch included (B / L / -)
Day 5 : Kyoto’s Cultural Heritage – Temples, Shrines & Geisha Districts
Your private guide will meet you at your hotel lobby at 9 AM for a full-day exploration of Kyoto, uncovering its timeless beauty, history, and cultural traditions.
Begin your morning with a serene walk along the Philosopher’s Path, a scenic canal-side trail lined with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Arriving early ensures a peaceful experience before the crowds arrive. Next, visit Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion), a Zen temple known for its elegant simplicity and influence on Japanese arts. Your guide will bring its rich history to life as you explore the beautifully landscaped gardens. Continue to Heian Shrine, modeled after the original Imperial Palace. Walk through its impressive torii gate and tranquil gardens, while learning about its unique place in Kyoto’s history.
For lunch, enjoy a local Kyoto meal, soaking in the atmosphere before heading to Kiyomizudera Temple. Perched on a hillside, this iconic temple offers breathtaking views of the city. Explore the surrounding Higashiyama district, where traditional artisan shops sell handcrafted souvenirs, sweets, and ceramics. End the day in Gion, Kyoto’s legendary geisha district. Walk through its historic streets, lined with traditional teahouses, and learn about the fascinating world of geiko and maiko (Kyoto’s geisha and apprentice geisha). If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of one on her way to an evening engagement.
・As this is a private tour, you can customize the itinerary with your guide based on your interests.
Accommodation: Century Hotel Kyoto or a similar hotel Meals: Breakfast & Lunch included (B / L / -)
Day 6 : Free Day in Kyoto – Explore at Your Own Pace
Today is a free day to explore Kyoto at your own pace. While yesterday’s tour covered some of the city’s most famous highlights, there is still much more to discover and experience.
Recommended Places to Visit: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest – Walk through the breathtaking bamboo groves and visit Tenryuji Temple Nishiki Market – A lively street market known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” offering local delicacies and unique food experiences Nijo Castle – A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring beautiful gardens, intricate architecture, and the famous “nightingale floors”
Alternatively, you can revisit your favorite spots, relax at a traditional tea house, or experience a hands-on cultural activity such as calligraphy, kimono dressing, or a tea ceremony.
Accommodation: Century Hotel Kyoto or a similar hotel Meals: Breakfast included (B / – / -)
Day 7 : Kyoto to Osaka – Castles, City Views & Vibrant Streets
This morning, your private guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you on a local train journey to Osaka, Japan’s dynamic food and entertainment capital.
Upon arrival, drop off your luggage at your hotel before setting off on an exciting walking tour of Osaka: Osaka Castle – Explore one of Japan’s most famous castles, surrounded by scenic gardens and offering insights into the city’s samurai history. Umeda Sky Building – Admire breathtaking panoramic views of Osaka’s skyline from this futuristic observation deck. Dotonbori – Dive into the colorful, neon-lit streets of this lively district, famous for its giant billboards, energetic atmosphere, and delicious street food.
For lunch, indulge in kushiage, a classic Osaka specialty featuring crispy, deep-fried skewers of meat and vegetables. After the tour, your guide will drop you off at your hotel, where you can relax or continue exploring Osaka at your own pace.
Accommodation: Hotel Hankyu Respire Osaka or a similar hotel Meals: Breakfast & Lunch included (B / L / -)
Day 8 : Free Day in Osaka – Explore or Take an Optional Tour
Today is a free day to explore Osaka at your own pace. Your guide can provide personalized recommendations at the end of Day 7, or you can choose from one of our exciting optional tours.
Suggested Places to Visit in Osaka: Shitennoji Temple – One of Japan’s oldest Buddhist temples, rich in history and serene beauty Shinsaibashi & Namba – A paradise for shopping, entertainment, and vibrant city life Kuromon Market – Sample Osaka’s finest street food, from fresh sushi to takoyaki
Optional Tours & Tickets: Hiroshima & Miyajima 1-Day Tour – Travel by bullet train to Hiroshima, visit the Peace Memorial Park and the sacred Itsukushima Shrine with its floating torii gate Universal Studios Japan – Spend the day at one of Japan’s largest and most exciting theme parks, featuring Super Nintendo World, Harry Potter, and thrilling attractions
Take the day to discover Osaka your way, whether it’s indulging in local cuisine, exploring historical sites, or enjoying an unforgettable theme park adventure!
Accommodation: Hotel Hankyu Respire Osaka or a similar hotel Meals: Breakfast included (B / – / -)
Day 9 : Free Morning in Osaka & Departure
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time in Osaka before heading to the airport. Take this opportunity for last-minute souvenir shopping or a final cultural visit: Shinsaibashi-suji Street – A lively shopping arcade filled with fashion, souvenirs, and specialty stores Tenjinbashi-suji Street – The longest shopping street in Japan, featuring traditional shops, street food, and unique gifts Namba Yasaka Shrine – A hidden gem known for its giant lion-shaped shrine, believed to bring good fortune
When it’s time to depart, a private van transfer will take you to Kansai Airport for your flight home. Thank you for traveling with us—we hope to welcome you again on your next adventure! If you’d like to extend your stay in Japan, let us know in your inquiry form, and we’ll be happy to assist with your travel plans.
Meals: Breakfast included (B / – / -)
Arrival and departure: Start in Tokyo and end in Osaka Tour date: set your own dates, All in 2025 Tour price: USD 2,480 per person (based on twin/triple room occupancy) : Mini 2 persons ~ Child price (age 4-11): USD 1,800 Optional: Ryokan Experience and Kaiseki Dinner Plan for Day 4 (only one night): an additional USD 180 per person.
INCLUDED
8 nights Western-style accommodation Meet and greet upon arrival at Narita or Haneda Airport Airport transfers on arrival and departure Private guided tours in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka 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 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 for XXX yen ~ per night, per person. 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) Meal Requests: Vegetarian, halal or special meals can be arranged Tour schedule and prices subject to change without notice
CANCELLATION POLICY
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 the 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.