Day 1: Tokyo

Meet your TravelTides Tours Airport Representative who will escort you to your driver for an accompanied airport transfer to your hotel by private vehicle.

Where you’ll be staying: Keio Plaza Tokyo Luxury Family (4 Bedded Room)

Day 2: Tokyo

Today meet your guide to embark on a captivating half-day city tour to gain insights into some of the city's most iconic, historical, and cultural sights of Tokyo. Begin with visiting Hamarikyu, a splendid Japanese garden that once belonged to a powerful feudal lord during the Edo Period. Admire the garden's diverse collection of seasonal flowers, drawing visitors from far and wide. The highlight awaits at Nakajima-no-Chaya, a charming teahouse offering freshly brewed green tea, delectable Japanese sweets, and picturesque views of the tranquil ponds and lush greenery. Uniquely, this landscape garden features seawater ponds that ebb and flow with the tides, adding to its allure. Take a delightful tea break as your guide shares intriguing insights into the art of sado, the traditional tea ceremony. From there, venture to Asakusa, a cherished part of Tokyo's old town known as shitamachi. Immerse yourself in the rich history of this district, once a flourishing geisha enclave. Discover the iconic Sensoji dating back to the 7th century, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding streets. Delight in strolling through the traditional shops that line the streets, offering a glimpse into Japan's cultural heritage. Let the captivating charm of Asakusa captivate your senses as you explore its timeless beauty.
Please note: This tour makes use of Tokyo's efficient public transportation to travel around the city.

After years of traveling to and from Japan, our Destination Experts all agree that when traveling to the other side of the globe, we all need some time at leisure to acclimate to the new time zone, a fast-paced city, and a different country, culture, and way of life. Take this day to explore the city at your own pace or rest at your accommodations and set off tomorrow fresh-faced and ready to take in the incredibly country that is Japan with your private guide along side.
Please note: If you're the type to 'hit the ground running' when you travel, simply let your Destination Expert know and they will help you choose the best tour for the first, full day of your time abroad.

Where you’ll be staying: Keio Plaza Tokyo Luxury Family (4 Bedded Room)

Day 3: Tokyo

Uncover one of Japan's ancient traditions with an exclusive behind-the-scenes Sumo Training experience in Tokyo. This extraordinary opportunity grants you access to the inner workings of a sumo stable, where you can witness the intense training sessions of these remarkable athletes. As the morning sun graces the vibrant city, meet your private guide at the hotel. Utilize Tokyo's clean and efficient transportation system as you journey to the Ryogoku district, the bustling epicenter of Japan's sumo culture and home to the renowned Kokugikan Sumo Stadium. Step inside one of the stables, locally known as "heya," where sumo wrestlers not only train but also reside, eat, and sleep. Immerse yourself in their daily routines and rituals as they meticulously hone their skills and prepare for the grand stage. Observe the dedicated training activities unfolding within these sacred walls. Marvel at the physical prowess and unwavering discipline displayed by the rikishi (sumo wrestlers) as they engage in warm-ups, technique practices, and sparring sessions. One of the highlights is the thrilling spectacle known as 'King of the Castle,' where two wrestlers engage in an unyielding clash until one emerges victorious. Be captivated by the raw power, agility, and skill demonstrated in this relentless battle for supremacy. Please note that respect and silence are of utmost importance within the stable, prior to entering, your guide will provide detailed insights and explanations, ensuring you fully comprehend and appreciate the rich tapestry of sumo's ancient customs and traditions.
Please note: This tour makes use of Tokyo's efficient public transportation to travel around the city.

Experience Tokyo’s vibrant youth culture on a half-day private adventure through its most iconic districts: Shibuya, Harajuku, and Akihabara. Meet your guide at your hotel and navigate the city like a local by using Tokyo’s efficient public transit system. Start in Shibuya, where cutting-edge fashion intersects with urban energy. Witness the mesmerizing Shibuya Crossing, a five-way intersection considered the busiest in the world, and explore streets lined with flagship stores and hidden boutiques that set global style trends. Continue to Harajuku, the epicenter of Japanese kawaii culture, where bold self-expression flourishes. Takeshita Street is filled with vibrant streetwear, eccentric accessories, and themed cafés offering everything from rainbow-colored treats to animal-inspired delights. Discover the creative energy that transforms this district into a playground for fashion-forward youth. Finally, step into Akihabara, a neon-lit wonderland once renowned for its electronics and now the beating heart of anime and manga fandom. Explore multi-story shops brimming with collectibles, gaming arcades, and immersive themed cafes. Conclude with a smooth public transit ride back to your accommodation.

Where you’ll be staying: Keio Plaza Tokyo Luxury Family (4 Bedded Room)

Day 4: Tokyo

Today, enjoy an exclusive manga drawing experience in Tokyo's renowned Central Nakano district; The epitome of manga culture in the city. After you meet your assistant at your hotel, take Tokyo's efficient public transportation and immerse yourself in the world of Japanese manga as you visit a prestigious manga school and delve into the captivating history of this centuries-old art form. Under the expert guidance of a professional manga artist, receive hands-on training in the intricate techniques of drawing these distinctively Japanese representations of everyday life and fantasy. From ancient scroll illustrations to modern paperback editions and online platforms, manga has evolved into diverse genres, encompassing comedy, action, and more. Over the course of two hours, gain insights into the rich history of manga and discover the distinctive artistic style that defines this revered Japanese cartoon form. After the enlightening workshop, choose to return to your hotel with your assistant or explore Nakano's underground havens of anime, manga, and otaku, immersing yourself further in the captivating world of Japanese pop culture and make your way back on your own.
Please note: This tour makes use of Tokyo's efficient public transportation to travel around the city.

Set out on a flavorful evening adventure through Tokyo’s vibrant street food scene, guided privately by a local expert. Begin by meeting your knowledgeable guide at your hotel, then navigate the city like a local using Tokyo’s efficient public transportation system. Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Meguro, where each stop on this tour offers a unique and unforgettable culinary experience in a family-friendly ambiance. Indulge in delectable Japanese-Western fusion dishes at an exceptional eatery adorned with vintage Nintendo game machines and a captivating board game collection. Savor the flavors of Hiroshima style Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake customizable with your preferred ingredients. As you dine, immerse yourself in Japan's rich culinary culture, absorbing the lively atmosphere and listening to captivating stories shared by our guide. Please note that due to the nature of these venues, reservations are not available, but rest assured, your guide will ensure an abundant feast awaits.
Please note: This tour makes use of Tokyo's efficient public transportation to travel around the city. Additionally, let your Destination Expert know of any dietary restrictions prior to your departure.

Where you’ll be staying: Keio Plaza Tokyo Luxury Family (4 Bedded Room)

Day 5: Tokyo To Hakone

Leave behind the hustle and bustle of Tokyo in favor of a day in Hakone; The gateway to Japan’s tallest mountain Mt. Fuji and the surrounding national park. Your local guide will meet you at your hotel this morning and accompany you on your private drive from Tokyo. Spend the day exploring Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, making use of your private vehicle as well as Hakone’s experiential forms of transport. The first stop will be at the Hakone Checkpoint which has been reconstructed to look exactly as it did during the Feudal Edo Period. Your guide will explain its fascinating history and show you around the museum before taking a short walk through the beautiful Cedar Avenue nearby. After you have taken in the beauty of the forest, travel to the foot of Mt. Komagatake for a scenic ride on the gondola lift. If the skies are clear, Mt. Fuji might be visible. Hakone is also home to many museums and parks. Later in the day, visit the Hakone Open Air Museum, which creates a harmonic balance of nature and art by exhibiting various sculptures on its spacious grounds. Besides the sculptures, the Hakone Open Air Museum also features various indoor galleries, including a sizable Picasso Collection. Throughout the day there is a chance to catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji, however, please keep in mind that she is a notoriously shy mountain and it needs to be a clear day.

Enjoy a hearty, traditional Japanese meal as part of the Ryokan experience, included in the cost of your tour. This will be artfully presented and served to you in the ryokan's dining room, as is the custom in Japan.

Where you’ll be staying: Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu Superior Room with Open-Air Bath

Day 6: Hakone To Kyoto

This morning, enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

Meet your driver for a train station transfer with a private vehicle.
Please note: While your driver will be holding a Kensington Tours sign with your name printed clearly on it, most drivers in Japan speak very limited or no English. Should you require assistance, please call the 24/7 customer service phone number in your travel pack.

Relax on the scenic train from Hakone's Odawara station to Kyoto. The train ride is approximately 2 hours.

Your hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of the Kyoto train station. While the walk between the station and the hotel is short and simple, for your added comfort, an assistant will be on hand to escort you between the two points.

Where you’ll be staying: Granvia Kyoto Superior Twin

Day 7: Kyoto

Experience the charm of Kyoto's Arashiyama district uniquely with a delightful traditional rickshaw ride pulled by a skilled driver-guide. Depart by your private transfer from your hotel for the tour starting location at the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, a picturesque wooden bridge spanning the serene Katsura River, and begin your rickshaw adventure. Your driver will gracefully navigate the rickshaw through the area's main highlights, unveiling its cherished attractions along with some delightful hidden gems. A perfect balance between a walking tour and covering more ground, the rickshaw allows you to savor the sights and sounds of this captivating town at a leisurely pace. Wind through local neighborhoods and witness the beauty of the machiya, traditional Japanese houses. Pass by Nonomiya Shrine, the setting of the renowned literary work "The Tale of Genji," considered the world's first novel. Return to Togetsukyo Bridge, bidding farewell to your friendly rickshaw driver. Return to your hotel by public transport.

Experience the enchanting city of Kyoto through the eyes of a local on a half-day guided cycling tour. Meet your guide at your hotel and head to Kyoto Station for a bike fitting and briefing, then set off on this immersive adventure. Pedal through the maze-like streets of Gion District, Kyoto’s famous geisha quarter, and meander along the narrow lanes of Miyagawa-cho, surrounded by traditional machiya houses. Follow the scenic Shirakawa Canal, lined with weeping willows, and pass teahouses where Geishas and Maikos are often seen. Continue through the lively Hanami-koji Alley, where you might catch a glimpse of a Maiko on her way to an appointment. Leave Gion behind and cycle to the Imperial Palace Park, learning about the former residence of the Imperial Family. On your return journey, ride along the tranquil Kamogawa River. Conclude your tour with a leisurely ride back to the bike depot, where you’ll bid farewell to your bike and guide, having experienced Kyoto’s charm in an unforgettable way.

Where you’ll be staying: Granvia Kyoto Superior Twin

Day 8: Kyoto To Osaka

Immerse yourself in the legacy of Japan's legendary samurai warriors with a thrilling half day experience that combines tradition, artistry, and cultural insight. Depart your hotel with your English-speaking guide, who will escort you to a shared samurai kenbu lesson using Tokyo's efficient public transportation system. Begin with an expert-led introduction to the samurai's history and way of life. Don traditional attire and master the fundamentals of samurai etiquette before immersing yourself in kenbu—the "sword dance." Once a tool for battlefield focus and confidence, kenbu now showcases the grace and discipline of samurai culture as a performing art. Under the guidance of a skilled master, observe the fluid, ceremonial sword movements and engage in hands-on practice, channeling the poise and concentration of the samurai of old. Afterward, enjoy a live kenbu performance, showcasing the mastery of seasoned practitioners and apprentices alike. Still dressed in traditional samurai attire, take the opportunity to capture memorable photos with the masters. Conclude this enriching experience with a commemorative samurai certificate—a lasting memento of your journey into Japan’s warrior heritage.
Please note that with this tour you will have a private guide, but rather than traveling by private vehicle, you will make use of Kyoto’s efficient local transit system.

Enjoy a transfer with a private driver from Kyoto to Osaka. The transfer time is approximately 1 hour.

Where you’ll be staying: Zentis Osaka Corner Studio King/Twin

Day 9: Osaka

Join your private guide at your hotel for an exploration through the heart of Osaka City, where a tapestry of history, culture, and architectural marvels awaits your discovery. Using Osaka's efficient public transit system, you'll journey to Osaka Castle, a site renowned for its historical significance and architectural grandeur. While the original wooden castle is long gone, its modern reconstruction faithfully captures the soaring splendor of the past. Venture into the vibrant heart of the Shinsekai district, where history seamlessly blends with modernity in a splendid fusion. This labyrinth of narrow streets and bustling alleys exudes an undeniable energy, a testament to the perpetual motion of the city. This is a perfect spot to try some local street food like the popular takoyaki. Amidst the bustling crowd, the famed Tsutenkaku Tower stands tall as an architectural masterpiece that offers breathtaking vistas of the cityscape. Your journey through Isshinji Temple provides a tranquil pause—a moment of reflection amidst the city's hustle. The serenity of its gardens and the intricate details of its architecture invite contemplation. A short walk through a nearby historic garden offers a preview of your final stop today. Behold Abe no Harukas, Japan’s tallest building—a monument to human achievement that seems to touch the sky itself. An elevator ride to its zenith unveils panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Please note: This tour makes use of Osaka's efficient public transportation to travel around the city.

This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

Where you’ll be staying: Zentis Osaka Corner Studio King/Twin

Day 10: Osaka

Meet your driver for an airport transfer with a private vehicle.