Japan Family Adventure

Welcome to the start of your Japan family tour! Upon your arrival in Tokyo, make your way to your accommodation. Enjoy the freedom of your first day to explore and absorb the vibrant atmosphere of Tokyo. Whether wandering through bustling streets, trying local street foods, or simply taking in the unique sights, your journey has officially begun!

Join us for a welcome meeting in the lobby this morning, where you'll have the chance to meet your Adventure Leader, fellow travelers, and receive essential details about the itinerary.

Afterwards, join a sushi-making class with a skilled sushi chef, and enjoy your delicious creations for lunch. Then, enjoy the scenic beauty of Shinjuku Gyoen, one of Tokyo’s largest parks, renowned for its cherry blossoms during springtime. You can spend as much time as you desire in the park before heading to the top of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

In the evening, you are free to explore Shinjuku at your leisure – whether it's wandering the vibrant streets, unwinding at a local bathhouse, or shopping. For a unique experience, consider a visit to a local batting cage.

This morning, you'll take the train to teamLab Planets TOKYO, an immersive digital art installation and exhibition for the whole family to enjoy.

Following this, we will head to Harajuku, Tokyo's renowned fashion district. You'll have free time to explore the famous Takeshita Street and the iconic Meiji Shrine. While here, why not shop at the popular second-hand clothing store "Chicago," or try a meal at the renowned "Ghi" curry restaurant?

Then, experience the bustling energy of Shibuya Crossing, the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world, and don't forget to find the iconic Hachiko Statue. Here, you can also enjoy a visit to a cat cafe, enjoying a cup of coffee while spending time with adorable furry companions.

Today is a free day, for you to explore Tokyo however you wish!

In the morning, consider embarking on a train journey to Tokyo’s renowned Tsukiji Outer Market, offering an opportunity to enjoy fresh sashimi for lunch.

For anime and gaming fans, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Akihabara, recognised as Japan’s “electric town.” Explore iconic spots like "Super Potato" for retro game lovers or "Radio Gaikan" for anime enthusiasts – both offering unmissable experiences.

Alternatively, for a more traditional experience, venture to Sensō-ji Temple and delight in local street snacks in Asakusa during your free time.

Tokyo - Hakone. This morning, we'll embark for Hakone via a series of trains and buses, including a ride on the famous "Romance Car," renowned for its picturesque views. We'll arrive at Hakone Yumoto Station just before midday.

Break for lunch, then transfer to Moto-Hakone by bus, followed by a delightful adventure aboard a sightseeing pirate ship cruise across Lake Ashi. Weather permitting, you may even catch an unforgettable view of Mt. Fuji!

Next, experience the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani, an active volcanic zone known for its black eggs, rumoured to extend life by seven years.

Conclude your day with a dip in the sulfuric waters of a traditional Japanese bath, known as an Onsen. Afterwards, change into your Yukata, a light kimono, and enjoy your free evening to unwind and explore Hakone at your leisure.

Hakone - Hiroshima. Today you'll embark on an unguided journey from Hakone to the historic Hiroshima. You will need to take various buses and bullet trains, but your Adventure Leader will provide you with clear instructions.

You'll have short stops at Odawara station, where you can purchase a Japanese famous "Ekiben" (Lunch box), and at Shin-Osaka station, where you can consider trying the famous snack from Osaka, "Takoyaki" (Octopus ball).

You will arrive in Hiroshima Station just before 17:00. Upon arrival, take the tram to Hachobori station. Your hotel will be located just a short walk away.

For dinner, try the famous local dish "Okonomiyaki" at Okonomiyaki Village (Okonomi Mura).

Begin your morning with a visit to the impactful Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum & Atomic Bomb Dome, offering a profound insight into history. Keep some snacks handy as lunch may be late today.

In the afternoon, venture to Miyajima Island by train and ferry, where the stunning Itsukushima Shrine and the iconic red torii gate standing in the sea await. Take advantage of low tide to walk across the sand for an up-close view.

Enjoy free time to explore the island, have lunch, or choose to enter Itsukushima Shrine (additional fee, booked & paid locally). Explore Miyajima Island at your own pace before making your own way back to your Hiroshima hotel.

Hiroshima - Kyoto. Commence your day by departing from Hiroshima Station to Kyoto via Shin-Osaka. Consider grabbing a famous Japanese "Ekiben" (lunch box) for your bullet train journey. The lunch box options can be found after passing through the bullet train ticket gate at Hiroshima station.

Arriving at Kyoto Station, you will meet your Adventure Leader and be assisted in transferring to your hotel.

After settling in, join a meditation class at Daisen-in Zen temple, led by a Buddhist monk, featuring a tea ceremony. Later, explore the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple, the Golden Pavilion, recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site.

Following this, you have the option to enjoy free time in the Gion and Higashiyama area. Stroll through Pontocho alley in the Geisha District, discovering Japanese traditional arts and crafts.

Today is an unguided day, where you will explore Kyoto's treasures at your own pace. First stop is a visit to Kiyomizu Temple. Please note, there is a small entry free to enter the temple.

You'll then take a bus bound for the Arashiyama area. Upon arrival, make sure to take a free area map from the station and indulge in free time for lunch around JR Saga-Arashiyama Station.

Embark on a cultural journey by visiting Tenryu-Ji Temple and admiring its breathtaking Zen Garden. After leaving the temple, hike through Arashiyama’s Bamboo Forest, starting the Bamboo Forest Trail from the north gate of Tenryu-ji Temple. Continue your exploration with a visit to Arashiyama Monkey Park, which can be reached by crossing the Togetsu-gyo bridge.

In the evening, explore Nishiki Market, known as ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’, located approximately 2 minutes' walk from your hotel. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and tasty local food offerings.

Start your day with a Calligraphy Lesson! Engage in the unique and culturally enriching experience of calligraphy, a craft deeply rooted in Japanese tradition.

Following the calligraphy session, take advantage of free time in the Shijo Kawaramachi area, where you can explore or break for lunch. Afterwards, delve into the world of manga at the Manga Museum, an unmissable experience that captures the essence of Japan's vibrant pop culture.

Continue your exploration with a visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its red torii gates that form a pathway up the sacred Mount Inari. As the day concludes, return to your hotel with the evening at leisure.

Today is a free day for you to explore Kyoto and its surrounds at your own pace!

You can opt to explore the serene Philosopher’s Path, adorned with majestic temples. Stroll along this scenic route, taking in the beauty that surrounds you.

Perhaps you want to immerse yourself in culture by visiting Todaiji Temple and the deer park in Nara. Experience the charm of friendly deer that bow for treats, creating a memorable interaction.

You can even choose to spend the day in nearby Osaka, starting with a visit to the iconic Osaka Castle. Wander through the expansive double moat and explore the nine-level castle keep. Dive into the excitement of a six-level gaming arcade, shop in the lively Shinsaibashi district, and end your day along the vibrant Dotonbori Riverfront.

Sadly, today marks the end of your Japan family adventure.

You can either transfer to Osaka’s Kansai airport to fly home, or hop on the bullet train back to Tokyo and fly home from there. Transfers are not included but can be booked on request for a supplement.