10 Day Premium Japan By Rail

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.

After a ride on a high-speed bullet train, you'll find yourself in Osaka. The bullet train is not only a convenient mode of transportation but also an exciting part of your journey. As you disembark in Osaka, you'll step into a city known for its blend of tradition and modernity, offering a unique urban experience. The transition from the train's serene countryside views to Osaka's vibrant cityscape adds an interesting dimension to your trip.

Once you arrive, use public transportation to reach your Osaka hotel.

Special Information

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

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

After breakfast at your hotel and a leisurely morning in Osaka, make your way to Kyoto via train and check in to your hotel on your own.

This afternoon, you might like to join an optional tour. Alternatively, join one of the free walking tours on offer in Kyoto.

After breakfast, continue your Kyoto exploration with a captivating full-day guided tour (entrance fees and transportation at your own expense). Begin by embarking on a leisurely walk through Miyagawa-cho, one of Kyoto's cherished 'Hanamachi' or geisha districts. From there, proceed to Hanamikoji Street, the bustling heart of the Gion district. As you meander along, be enchanted by the fragrant ambience emanating from the traditional restaurants and 'Ochayas,' the quintessential Japanese tea rooms. With a touch of luck, you may even chance upon a Geisha or a Maiko (apprentice Geisha) gracing the historic streets.

Your journey then leads you to Kennin-ji temple, a venerable Zen temple established in 1202 and revered as Kyoto's oldest. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the 'Karesansui,' a meticulously crafted Japanese rock garden, and admire the renowned 'Fujin-Raijin-zu' artwork. This masterpiece, created by the celebrated artist Soutatu Tawaraya, portrays the Gods of Wind and Thunder and is esteemed as a national treasure.

Conclude your Gion tour at the revered Yasaka Shrine, a sacred Shinto shrine with a legacy spanning over 1350 years. Nestled at the nexus of the Geisha District of Gion and the picturesque Higashiyama Temple District, this shrine also serves as the site of the renowned Gion Festival, enriching your Kyoto experience with historical and cultural depth.

Inspiring Highlights

• Miyagawa-cho
• Gion District (Hanamikoji Street)
• Kennin-ji temple
• Yasaka Shrine
• Higashiyama Temple 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.

Enjoy your final morning in Kyoto before transferring independently to 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.