CLASSIC JAPAN

Tour start date(s):	18-04-2027, 08-05-2027, 09-10-2027
Duration:	10 Days / 9 Nights
Location:	Tokyo (arrival, 3 nights) - Nikko - Mount Fuji - Kyoto (3 nights) - Arashiyama - Uji - Nara - Osaka (3 nights, departure).
Price (including tax):	DBL $2,950.00 US, SNG $3,730.00 US / Flights not included

JAPAN IN ALL ITS SPLENDOR: 10 DAYS FROM TOKYO TO OSAKA

A classic journey through Japan featuring Mount Fuji, ancient temples, traditional gardens, famous food markets, and the legendary Bullet Train

Russian-speaking guide

Why Choose This Tour?

Discover Japan’s most iconic destinations on an unforgettable 10-day journey combining ancient traditions, breathtaking landscapes, authentic cuisine, modern city life, and shopping.

• A comprehensive classic Japan itinerary covering Tokyo, Nikko, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Uji, Nara, and Osaka.
• Convenient Friday departures for easy travel planning.
• Airport transfers included upon arrival in Tokyo and departure from Osaka, subject to the tour’s transfer arrangements.
• Centrally located hotels for convenient access to city attractions and evening walks.
• Experienced guided sightseeing throughout the scheduled excursion program.
• Comfortable minibus transportation for scheduled tour transfers.
• A ride on the famous Shinkansen Bullet Train, one of Japan’s most iconic travel experiences.
• Kyoto’s cultural treasures: the Golden Pavilion, Zen rock garden, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and the thousands of red torii gates at Fushimi Inari.
• Mount Fuji’s most photogenic viewpoints, including the iconic Chureito Pagoda and the traditional village of Oshino Hakkai.
• Two of Japan’s famous food markets: Tsukiji in Tokyo and Kuromon in Osaka, with opportunities to sample fresh seafood and local specialties at your own expense.
• Nikko’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and the atmospheric Kanmangafuchi Abyss.
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the historic Gion district, famous for its geiko and maiko traditions.
• Uji, the home of celebrated Japanese green tea, and Nara, known for its Great Buddha and free-roaming deer.
• A full day for shopping in Osaka before departure.

Experience the best of Japan in one carefully planned journey, from timeless temples and spectacular natural scenery to vibrant markets and world-class shopping.

DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

Day 1 — Arrival in Tokyo

Arrive in Tokyo on any flight. Upon arrival, you will be met by our driver holding a welcome sign and transferred to your hotel.

Hotel check-in is available from 3:00 PM. The remainder of the day is free to relax after your flight or enjoy your first independent exploration of the Japanese capital.

Your hotel is conveniently located for an evening stroll and dinner. Detailed recommendations for nearby restaurants and attractions will be provided.

Overnight in Tokyo.

Day 2 — Nikko: Sacred Shrines and the Enchanting Kanmangafuchi Abyss

At 8:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and depart for Nikko, one of Japan’s most celebrated destinations for cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Shinkyo Bridge

Begin with the picturesque Shinkyo Bridge, an elegant red structure spanning the clear waters of the Daiya River. Considered one of Japan’s most beautiful traditional bridges, it is closely associated with the sacred landscape of Nikko.

Toshogu Shrine

Visit the magnificent Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. Admire the elaborate Yomeimon Gate, intricate carvings, the famous Three Wise Monkeys, and the Sleeping Cat carving.

The richly decorated complex is one of Japan’s most remarkable examples of traditional craftsmanship.

Futarasan Shrine

Continue to Futarasan Shrine, an important Shinto sanctuary associated with the sacred mountains of Nikko. Surrounded by towering cedar trees, the shrine offers a peaceful introduction to Japan’s spiritual traditions and reverence for nature.

Kanmangafuchi Abyss

Discover the atmospheric Kanmangafuchi Abyss, a scenic riverside gorge lined with stone statues of Jizo, the Buddhist protector of children and travelers.

Local folklore says that the number of statues may differ depending on whether you count them on the way there or on the way back.

Enjoy free time for lunch. You may wish to sample yuba, a local delicacy made from the delicate skin that forms on heated soy milk.

Return to Tokyo in the afternoon.

Overnight in Tokyo.

Day 3 — Tokyo: From Ancient Temples to Modern City Life

After breakfast, meet your guide at 9:00 AM for a full day exploring Tokyo’s contrasting neighborhoods, traditional landmarks, culinary culture, and modern architecture.

Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple

Begin in historic Asakusa with a visit to Senso-ji, one of Tokyo’s best-known Buddhist temples. Pass through the iconic Kaminarimon Gate and stroll along Nakamise Shopping Street, lined with traditional souvenirs, crafts, and Japanese sweets.

Discover local customs and the enduring traditions associated with this historic temple district.

Tsukiji Market

Visit the famous Tsukiji Outer Market, a favorite destination for food lovers. Browse stalls offering seafood, fresh fish, oysters, scallops, Japanese omelets, traditional sweets, green tea, and other local specialties.

There will be opportunities to sample sushi, sashimi, and freshly prepared seafood at your own expense.

Ginza

Explore Ginza, Tokyo’s prestigious shopping and architectural district. Admire contemporary buildings, luxury boutiques, jewelry stores, and the historic Kabuki-za Theatre.

Visit the Ginza Six shopping complex, including its rooftop garden, subject to public access.

Shibuya

Finish the day in vibrant Shibuya, one of Tokyo’s most dynamic districts. See the world-famous Shibuya Crossing and the statue of Hachiko, the loyal dog. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, fashionable shops, and street culture that make this neighborhood a symbol of modern Japan.

Overnight in Tokyo.

Day 4 — Mount Fuji, Chureito Pagoda, and Oshino Hakkai Village. Bullet Train to Kyoto

After breakfast, depart at approximately 8:30 AM for an excursion to the Mount Fuji region, home to some of Japan’s most recognizable landscapes.

Arakurayama Sengen Park and Chureito Pagoda

Climb approximately 400 steps to reach the iconic five-story Chureito Pagoda. On clear days, the viewpoint offers a spectacular panorama of Mount Fuji, creating one of Japan’s most famous photographic scenes.

Oshino Hakkai Village

Visit the traditional village of Oshino Hakkai, renowned for its eight crystal-clear ponds fed by groundwater filtered through volcanic rock from the Mount Fuji area.

Explore traditional wooden houses, small bridges, and peaceful village lanes while learning about the region’s connection to the mountain and its natural water sources.

Oishi Park and Lake Kawaguchi

Continue to Oishi Park on the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchi. Weather permitting, enjoy panoramic views of Mount Fuji framed by seasonal flowers and landscaped gardens.

After sightseeing, transfer to the railway station. Your guide will provide your Shinkansen ticket and assist you with boarding.

Enjoy a journey on Japan’s famous Bullet Train to Kyoto, taking approximately two hours, depending on the departure station and service.

Upon arrival in Kyoto, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel.

Overnight in Kyoto.

Day 5 — Kyoto: Golden Pavilion, Zen Rock Garden, and Fushimi Inari Shrine

After breakfast, meet your guide at 10:00 AM for a sightseeing tour of Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital and one of the country’s most important cultural centers.

Kinkaku-ji — The Golden Pavilion

Visit the magnificent Golden Pavilion, whose upper two floors are covered in gold leaf. Set beside a reflective pond and surrounded by landscaped gardens, this is one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks.

Ryoan-ji Temple and Zen Rock Garden

Discover the celebrated Zen rock garden at Ryoan-ji Temple. Its arrangement of 15 stones is designed so that all 15 cannot be seen simultaneously from the traditional viewing position, inspiring reflection and contemplation.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit Kiyomizu-dera, a historic temple famous for its impressive wooden terrace overlooking the surrounding hills and city.

Explore the temple grounds and the Otowa Waterfall, whose three streams are traditionally associated with different blessings, including health, success, and longevity.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Conclude the day at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates forming atmospheric pathways up the mountainside.

Dedicated to the Shinto deity associated with rice, prosperity, and business success, the shrine is one of Japan’s most memorable spiritual sites.

Overnight in Kyoto.

Day 6 — Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Gion, Kyoto’s Historic Geisha District

After breakfast, meet your guide at 9:00 AM.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Explore the scenic Arashiyama district on the western outskirts of Kyoto. Walk beneath towering bamboo stalks and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of one of Japan’s most famous natural attractions.

The gentle rustling of bamboo creates a distinctive sound that has become an important part of Japan’s celebrated soundscape.

Gion Historic District

Continue to Gion, Kyoto’s traditional entertainment district, known for its historic wooden buildings, narrow streets, traditional teahouses, and lantern-lit facades.

Walk along Hanamikoji Street and discover the atmosphere of old Kyoto.

Gion is associated with geiko and maiko, the professional performers of traditional Japanese arts. Seeing them on the streets depends on timing and circumstances and cannot be guaranteed.

Overnight in Kyoto.

Day 7 — Uji: Japan’s Famous Green Tea Town. Nara: The Great Buddha and Sacred Deer

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and depart with your luggage. Meet your guide at 9:00 AM.

Uji — The Home of Japanese Green Tea

Visit Uji, renowned for its centuries-old green tea traditions, particularly its high-quality matcha.

Stroll along the shopping streets and explore local shops offering tea, tea-infused sweets, noodles, cookies, jellies, and matcha ice cream.

You may also choose to visit a traditional tea house and enjoy matcha served with Japanese sweets at an additional cost.

Nara — The Great Buddha and Nara Park

Continue to Nara, one of Japan’s oldest historical cities and its first permanent capital.

Visit Todai-ji Temple, famous for its monumental wooden architecture and enormous bronze statue of the Great Buddha, known as Daibutsu.

Then explore Nara Park, where hundreds of deer roam freely. According to local tradition, these deer are sacred messengers of the gods.

You can purchase special deer crackers and feed the animals while observing their characteristic bowing behavior.

After sightseeing, transfer to Osaka and check in at your hotel.

Overnight in Osaka.

Day 8 — Osaka: Samurai Castle, Famous Markets, Shopping Streets, and Dotonbori

After breakfast, meet your guide at 9:00 AM for a sightseeing tour of Osaka, a city celebrated for its energetic atmosphere, culinary traditions, and shopping districts.

Osaka Castle

Begin with an exterior visit to Osaka Castle, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The castle played a significant role in Japan’s unification during the 16th century and remains a powerful symbol of the country’s samurai history.

Shinsaibashi Shopping District

Explore one of Osaka’s best-known shopping areas, home to Japanese retailers, international brands, fashion boutiques, cosmetics, accessories, and souvenir shops.

Kuromon Market

Visit Kuromon Market, a historic food market known for its fresh seafood, fish, meat, fruit, and Japanese delicacies.

Discover the ingredients and flavors that make Osaka famous as one of Japan’s culinary capitals. Food tastings and purchases are at your own expense.

Dotonbori

Continue to Dotonbori, Osaka’s lively entertainment and dining district. See the famous Glico Running Man sign, the giant Kani Doraku crab, and the colorful neon displays reflected in the canal.

There will be opportunities to sample local favorites such as takoyaki, savory okonomiyaki pancakes, and other Osaka specialties at your own expense.

Shinsekai

Finish the day in Shinsekai, a nostalgic neighborhood known for its retro atmosphere, traditional eateries, colorful signs, and Tsutenkaku Tower.

Overnight in Osaka.

Day 9 — Osaka: A Full Day for Shopping

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and spend the day at leisure, discovering Osaka at your own pace.

Visit Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, one of Japan’s longest covered shopping streets, or explore Shinsaibashi, Namba, and the city’s major shopping centers.

Look for Japanese cosmetics, fashion, electronics, accessories, souvenirs, and gourmet gifts.

Tax-free shopping may be available at participating stores for eligible visitors, subject to applicable conditions and regulations.

Overnight in Osaka.

Day 10 — Departure from Japan

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.

Transfer to Osaka’s airport by group shuttle or minibus according to the confirmed transfer arrangements.