Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival into Tokyo, please make your own way to the starting point hotel. Take the evening to relax after your flight. The easiest and most convenient way to travel from Haneda International Airport (HND) to Tokyo Central is by train or by monorail. The airport is also serviced by many 'Limousine Bus' services which offer shared shuttle bus service from around ¥1300 per person. The best way to travel from Narita International Airport (NRT) to Tokyo Central is by the Narita Airport Express. The journey to most Tokyo stations takes approximately 1hr and the ticket costs ¥4070. The airport is also serviced by many 'Limousine Bus' services which offer shared shuttle buses from around ¥1300 per person. Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. There are no scheduled activities today. If arriving prior to check-in time, which is usually from 2-3 pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available. Use this time to familiarise yourself with the hotel and rest before touring commences tomorrow. Special information This is one of our Independent Tours. On this package you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. We have arranged transportation in most cases and day tours for you to see the destination. Enjoy the time and flexibility to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible. You will be responsible for your luggage for the entirety of the trip. Please note that you will be required to walk to/from train stations. We recommend you use a small to medium size suitcase only to ensure you can manage the itinerary effectively. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are no scheduled activities on day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability

After breakfast at your hotel, make your way to the pick up point for your full day guided tour of Tokyo. Our exploration of Tokyo begins with a visit to Asakusa Sensoji Temple – the oldest temple in Tokyo – famous for its huge hanging lantern at the Kaminarimon Gate (Thunder Gate). Then, we'll explore the outer grounds of the Imperial Palace, the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan. Previously home to samurai warriors, it's a sprawling complex with beautiful 17th century parks in the heart of the city. Built on the site of the old Edo Castle, it is surrounded by a large park, moats and massive stone walls. Come cherry blossom season, it is blanketed in a sea of pink blooms. There is arguably no better place in Tokyo to have a fresh sushi breakfast or lunch than at the Tsukiji Outer Market. At the market, you can find processed and fresh seafood, along with culinary-related items such as specialty knives. No trip to Tokyo is complete with a visit to the famous Shibuya Crossing – the famed icon of the district alongside the Hachiko statue. You will have the evening to spend at your leisure. Inspiring Highlights Asakusa Sensoji Temple Imperial Palace Tsukiji Outer Market Shibuya Crossing

Today is a full free day in Tokyo. There is no end to the spectacular sightseeing and activities available to you, as Tokyo truly has something for everyone. Take as much time as you like to relax at your leisure, explore the city, shop for souvenirs and eat the delectable cuisine. Be sure to ask your guide for recommendations on more must-see spots around the city.

After breakfast at your hotel, you will embark on your journey independently to Hakone via train, using a 2-day Hakone Freepass. Explore the national park by taking a sequence of cars and mountain railways. Experience the Hakone ropeway as it ascends Mt. Owakudani, offering breathtaking views of volcanic hot springs and rivers emitting sulphurous fumes. At the summit, savour a renowned hard boiled egg cooked in the spring's waters, believed to add seven years to your life according to local legend. Later, cruise Ashinoko Lake on a splendid replica pirate ship, a result of a volcanic eruption over three millennia ago. Keep an eye out for a potential sighting of Mt. Fuji, although it typically requires a clear day to reveal its full splendour. In the evening, unwind in a traditional Japanese onsen hotel. Enjoy a Japanese Kaiseki-style dinner and indulge in the serene mineral-rich onsen hot spring, a time-honoured Japanese cultural practice that promotes relaxation. Inspiring Highlights Mt. Owakudani Ashinoko Lake Mt Fuji (weather permitting) Japanese Onsen Kaiseki-style Dinner Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

This morning, travel independently to the nearest train station and use your 2-day Hakone Freepass to Odawara to board a bullet train to Osaka. From there, board a high-speed bullet train bound for Kyoto. The bullet train not only provides a convenient means of transportation but also adds an exhilarating element to your journey. Upon your arrival in Kyoto, you will step into a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage, traditional temples, and timeless charm, offering a deeply immersive historical experience. The transition from the tranquil countryside vistas during your train journey to Kyoto's serene streets, historic districts, and beautifully preserved architecture adds a captivating dimension to your trip. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

After breakfast, continue your exploration of Kyoto with a captivating full-day guided tour. Begin your day at Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto's most iconic shrines, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates. Enjoy a walk through the scenic pathways that wind up the forested mountainside, and take in the peaceful, spiritual atmosphere dedicated to the Shinto deity of prosperity. Next, visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a celebrated UNESCO World Heritage site set on a hillside. Admire the impressive wooden structure and take in sweeping views of Kyoto and the surrounding landscape. Wander through the temple grounds and enjoy the serene ambience. Conclude your day in Gion Hanamachi, Kyoto's historic geisha district. Stroll along charming streets lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and restaurants. Soak up the timeless atmosphere, and if you're fortunate, you may catch a glimpse of a Geisha or Maiko on their way to an appointment.Inspiring Highlights Fushimi Inari Kiyomizu-dera Temple Gion District

Enjoy a day at leisure in Kyoto today. To enhance your journey, you may wish to join one of our optional tours or join a free walking tour.

After breakfast at your hotel and enjoying a leisurely morning in Kyoto, please proceed to Osaka (tickets to be arranged independently) and check in to your hotel independently. Enjoy the rest of the day at your own leisure. Special Information Your ticket from Kyoto to Osaka is to be purchased on the day at the train station. If taking the local train this. Options range from a fast Shinkansen ride (14 mins) for 1500JPY for an unreserved seat or 3000JPY for a reserved seat. Or take the local train - JR Special Rapid Tokaido Line (30mins) for 580JPY.

After breakfast, start your day with a guided visit to Osaka Castle via public transport (entrance fees and transportation at your own expense), a historic landmark symbolising Osaka. After exploring the castle, head to Umeda Sky Building's observatory for panoramic views. You'll experience both stunning scenery and the strong winds at 170 metres above ground, offering vistas reaching Awaji Island. Explore Takimi-Koji gourmet street in the building's basement, featuring 1920s Osaka ambiance, before concluding your day. You will have the evening at your leisure to explore this wonderful city. Inspiring Highlights Osaka Castle Umeda Sky Building Takimi-Koji Gourmet Street

Enjoy your final morning in Osaka before transferring independently to your next destination or Osaka International Airport for your onward flight. The best way to get from Kyoto to Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX) is to train which takes 1h 20m and costs ¥2700 - ¥4000. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which costs ¥2100 - ¥2900 and takes 1h 28m. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience. Special Information Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Travellers will be departing at various times throughout the day. Standard hotel check-out is from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or alternatively please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. Please note this service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost.