A taste of Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka

Board the bullet train (Shinkansen) to Kyoto*, Japan’s ancient capital. The trip takes only around 2 hours and 15 minutes, and the train can reach speeds of 300 km/h! Enjoy the rest of the day exploring Kyoto at your own pace. Wander through serene streets, visit hidden temples, or unwind at a local onsen.

Kyoto was Japan’s capital for over a thousand years and is one of the best-preserved cities in the country. It’s a vibrant blend of modern life and traditional culture, surrounded by the mountains of Western Honshu and that offers a wide variety of restaurants, and is easy to navigate. Overnight stay in Kyoto.

*The transfer between the hotel and the train station is not included.

Enjoy the morning exploring Kyoto at your own pace. Visit the impressive Nijo Castle or, for a more interactive experience, explore the Samurai & Ninja Museum to learn about Japan’s legendary warriors.

In the evening, take part in a guided walking tour of Gion, Kyoto’s most iconic geisha district. This is the time when geishas—known locally as geiko—and maiko (apprentices) begin to appear as they head to evening appointments, offering a rare and authentic glimpse into this refined world of traditional arts and entertainment. Wander through atmospheric alleyways lined with teahouses and wooden machiya townhouses, as your expert guide shares stories and insights into Kyoto’s unique cultural heritage. Overnight stay in Kyoto.

Enjoy a free day to explore Kyoto at your own pace. Wander through the city's peaceful streets, browse traditional craft shops, or visit one of its many charming teahouses. For a deeper cultural experience,we highly recommend joining our optional Kyoto & Nara Full-Day Tour*—an exceptional and comprehensive coach excursion that offers incredible value. Overnight stay in Kyoto.

*Kyoto & Nara Full-Day Tour: Begin with a visit to Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stunning three-story temple is covered in gold leaf on its upper floors and reflects beautifully in the surrounding Mirror Lake. Next, walk through the famous Senbon Torii at Fushimi Inari Taisha, where thousands of deep red torii gates form a captivating tunnel through the forest. In the afternoon, explore Nara Park, a vast area home to cultural treasures such as Todai-ji Temple (housing the Great Buddha), Kofuku-ji Temple, Kasuga Shrine, the Nara National Museum, and the ancient Kasugayama Primeval Forest. The park is also known for its approximately 1,300 friendly wild deer that roam freely among the trees, gardens, and historic landmarks.

Travel to Osaka aboard the Shinkansen (bullet train)* for a short 15-minute ride to the final city on your itinerary: vibrant, modern Osaka. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure to explore the city at your own pace.

Osaka is Japan’s third-largest city and the central hub of the Kansai region. The city has two main districts: Kita (north), a bustling business and shopping area, and Minami (south), known for its entertainment and nightlife. Among Osaka’s top attractions are its impressive, fully restored castle and the world-renowned Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan). Osaka also boasts bold modern architecture, a thriving nightlife scene, and some of Japan’s most beloved local cuisine—don’t miss the street food in Dōtonbori, packed with neon lights, restaurants, and bars. Overnight stay in Osaka.

*The transfer between the hotel and the train station is not included.