Embark on an exquisite 20-day luxury journey through Japan, exploring the vibrant modern pulse of Tokyo, the ancient traditions of Kyoto, and the breathtaking natural beauty of Hakone. This adventure perfectly blends cultural immersion with thrilling experiences, indulging your interests in history, stunning gardens, scenic views, and an unparalleled culinary scene.

Begin your luxury journey to Tokyo from Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE).
Enjoy the lounge access available with your luxury flight booking.
Land at Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) after your journey.
Clear customs and immigration.
A private luxury transfer will be arranged to take you directly to your hotel for seamless arrival.
Check into your luxurious hotel in central Tokyo and unwind after your long flight.
Get a good night's rest to prepare for your exciting adventures.
Private transfer will ensure a smooth check-in process. Room service or a light late-night meal can be arranged.
Embark on a private, curated tour tailored to your interests, covering Tokyo's must-see sights and offering unique insights.
Avoid impersonal groups and discover the city with a personal guide.
This private tour is highly rated and offers flexibility. Your guide will meet you at your hotel.
Enjoy a sophisticated lunch in Ginza, Tokyo's premier shopping and dining district, followed by exploration of its high-end boutiques and department stores.
Ginza is known for its flagship stores, upscale restaurants, and elegant atmosphere. Consider a reservation at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Take a leisurely walk through the beautiful East Garden of the Imperial Palace, a tranquil oasis offering a glimpse into Japan's imperial history.
Free entry. Provides a peaceful escape and beautiful views of the ancient castle foundations.
Indulge in a world-class Omakase sushi experience at one of Ginza's esteemed sushi counters, where the chef selects the freshest seasonal ingredients for you.
Reservations are essential, often weeks or months in advance, for top Omakase restaurants. Expect a truly exquisite culinary journey.
Visit Tokyo's oldest temple, Senso-ji, and stroll through Nakamise-dori market street, offering traditional snacks and souvenirs.
Arrive early to avoid the largest crowds. Consider a rickshaw ride for a unique perspective.
Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch in the charming Asakusa district, perhaps trying tempura or a local soba noodle shop.
Explore the many small eateries around the temple for authentic local cuisine.
Learn Bushido through Kendo, a Japanese martial art, and connect with the spirit of the Samurai in Tokyo. An immersive cultural experience.
Rated 5/5, this experience offers unique insight into Japanese culture. Wear comfortable clothing.
Ascend to the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, including Mount Fuji on a clear day.
Free entry. Offers incredible sunset views over the sprawling metropolis.
Dine at a high-end restaurant in Shinjuku, followed by cocktails at a sophisticated bar with city views.
Shinjuku offers a diverse range of gourmet experiences, from themed restaurants to elegant French or Japanese cuisine.
Explore the vibrant Tsukiji Outer Market, a haven for fresh seafood, street food, and kitchenware.
Enjoy a fresh sushi breakfast.
The inner fish market moved to Toyosu, but Tsukiji Outer Market remains a fantastic spot for foodies and offers a lively atmosphere.
Learn to make authentic ramen and crispy gyoza from a professional ramen chef, with vegan options available. An immersive culinary experience.
Rated 5/5, this hands-on class is a great way to delve into Japanese cuisine. Product Code: 417213P2
Visit the serene Meiji Jingu Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, then experience the vibrant youth culture and quirky fashion of Takeshita Street in Harajuku.
Enter the shrine through a massive torii gate, then head to Harajuku for a stark contrast of modern trends.
Explore Omotesando Avenue, known as Tokyo's Champs-Élysées, featuring high-end international brand stores, cafes, and sophisticated architecture.
Perfect for luxury shopping or simply enjoying the stylish ambiance.
Enjoy a sophisticated dinner in Shibuya, followed by a stroll through the famous Shibuya Crossing and experiencing the area's lively nightlife.
Dine at one of Shibuya's many upscale restaurants offering diverse cuisines. Shibuya is especially vibrant in the evening.
Depart from Tokyo via Shinkansen to Odawara, then transfer to the local Hakone Tozan train to Hakone-Yumoto.
Enjoy the scenic journey into the mountainous resort town.
Bullet train (Shinkansen) from Tokyo to Odawara, then Hakone Tozan Line to Hakone-Yumoto. Consider a Hakone Free Pass for convenience.
Arrive at your luxury ryokan in Hakone-Yumoto, check-in, and settle into your traditional Japanese room.
Enjoy the serene surroundings.
Many ryokans offer complimentary pick-up from Hakone-Yumoto station.
Savor a exquisite lunch at your ryokan, featuring fresh local ingredients and traditional Japanese flavors.
Take the Hakone Ropeway for breathtaking aerial views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi.
Stop at Owakudani, the volcanic valley, to see active sulfur vents and try a 'black egg'.
Wear comfortable shoes. The smell of sulfur can be strong at Owakudani.
Enjoy a leisurely cruise across Lake Ashi on a 'pirate ship,' offering iconic views of Mount Fuji (weather permitting) and the surrounding landscape.
Relax and rejuvenate in your ryokan's private onsen (hot spring bath).
A perfect way to unwind after a day of travel and sightseeing.
Indulge in a traditional multi-course Kaiseki dinner at your ryokan, showcasing seasonal ingredients and exquisite presentation.
Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at your ryokan, prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Explore the Hakone Open-Air Museum, Japan's first open-air museum, featuring a vast collection of modern and contemporary sculpture set against a stunning natural backdrop.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the museum or in the Gora area.
Visit the majestic Hakone Jinja Shrine, known for its iconic torii gate standing in Lake Ashi.
This ancient shrine is perched atop Mt. Komagatake and reachable by cable car or foot. Rating: 4.2/5
Step back in time at the Hakone Sekisho (checkpoint), a faithful reconstruction of an Edo-period checkpoint on the old Tokaido highway.
Learn about samurai and travel restrictions of the past.
Experience the traditionally-styled countryside hot spring resort, Hakone Yuryo.
Enjoy a relaxing dip in one of their quality communal hot springs, blessed by the rustic charm of Hakone Yumoto. Rating: 4.2/5
Enjoy a final exquisite dinner at your ryokan, perhaps trying a different seasonal menu or a special a la carte selection.
Enjoy a final Japanese breakfast at your ryokan before checking out.
Take the Hakone Tozan Line back to Odawara, then board a Shinkansen (bullet train) for the journey to Kyoto.
Enjoy the comfortable and efficient ride.
Hakone Tozan Line to Odawara, then Shinkansen to Kyoto. Purchase tickets in advance for reserved seats, especially during peak travel times.
Arrive in Kyoto, check into your luxury hotel, and enjoy a quick lunch at the hotel or a nearby restaurant.
Explore Gion, Kyoto's famous geisha district.
Wander through charming streets like Hanamikoji-dori, admire traditional machiya houses, and keep an eye out for geiko and maiko.
Walk along Pontocho Alley, a narrow, atmospheric street lined with traditional restaurants and bars, especially charming as dusk falls.
Savor an exquisite dinner at a high-end restaurant in Gion, offering traditional Kyoto cuisine (Kyo-ryori) or fine dining.
Consider attending a traditional cultural performance at Gion Corner, showcasing various Japanese arts like kyogen, kyo-mai dance, gagaku court music, and puppet theatre.
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your luxury hotel.
Visit the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, walking through its towering stalks.
Then explore Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful Zen gardens.
Enjoy lunch in the Arashiyama area, perhaps a traditional soba noodle dish or a cafe overlooking the river.
Visit Kinkaku-ji, the stunning Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.
Admire its reflection in the pond.
Learn the secrets of authentic Japanese cuisine with a hands-on Ramen & Dumpling Cooking Class. Our ramen chef instructor comes with a wealth of experience, having run restaurants abroad and trained in renowned Japanese ramen havens. Vegan options possible. Rating: 5/5
A fun and interactive way to experience Japanese food culture. Booking required.
Enjoy a final breakfast at your luxury hotel in Kyoto.
Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates that snake up the sacred Mount Inari.
Walk through the scenic pathways and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
Explore Nishiki Market, known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen'.
Sample local delicacies, browse specialty shops, and enjoy a casual lunch from one of the many food stalls.
Participate in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony, a profound cultural experience focusing on harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.
Learn about matcha preparation and etiquette. This will be part of a broader cultural class. Experience all of Japanese culture and Japanese food experience classes "origami, udon, Japanese food, green tea, calligraphy" in 4 hours. Rating: 5/5
Enjoy some free time for souvenir shopping in the Gion or Downtown Kyoto area, or relax at your hotel.
Indulge in a final, memorable dinner in Kyoto, perhaps at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a highly-rated Kyo-ryori establishment.
Marvel at the stunning Kinkaku-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple adorned with gold leaf, beautifully reflected in its surrounding pond. Wander through the meticulously maintained traditional garden.
Arrive early to avoid larger crowds. The reflection on the pond is especially beautiful on a clear day.
Visit the iconic Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its austere and enigmatic rock garden.
Spend time in contemplation of its minimalist beauty and serene atmosphere.
Indulge in a sophisticated multi-course Shojin Ryori (traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) lunch, showcasing exquisite flavors and artistic presentation, often enjoyed in a tranquil setting.
Experience vegetarian dining at its finest, with seasonal ingredients and delicate flavors.
Stroll through the iconic towering bamboo forest of Arashiyama and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Tenryu-ji Temple, renowned for its beautiful Sogenchi Teien garden.
Consider a traditional rickshaw ride through Arashiyama for a unique perspective.
Enjoy an exquisite kaiseki dinner at an exclusive Gion restaurant, followed by a private audience with a geiko (Kyoto geisha) or maiko (apprentice) for traditional dance, music, and engaging conversation.
This is a rare and intimate cultural experience. Booking well in advance is essential.
Explore the mesmerizing tunnel of thousands of vibrant orange torii gates winding up Mount Inari.
It's a truly iconic and photogenic experience.
Wear comfortable shoes as the path can be extensive. Go early to experience it with fewer crowds.
Enjoy a casual lunch near Fushimi Inari, sampling local specialties like Kitsune Udon (udon with fried tofu) or Inari Sushi (rice in seasoned fried tofu pockets).
Stroll through the beautifully preserved historic streets of the Higashiyama district, lined with traditional shops, leading up to the magnificent Kiyomizu-dera Temple, offering panoramic city views from its wooden stage.
Explore the Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka slopes for charming traditional architecture and souvenirs.
Participate in a serene and authentic private Japanese tea ceremony, learning about its deep cultural significance and intricate rituals from a knowledgeable master.
A perfect opportunity for quiet reflection and cultural immersion.
Indulge in an exquisite 'Omakase' (chef's choice) sushi dinner at a top-tier Kyoto establishment, where the master chef curates a bespoke culinary journey for you.
Reservations are crucial for Kyoto's best sushi restaurants.
Take a comfortable limited express train from Kyoto Station to Nara, a quick and scenic journey to the ancient capital.
Use the JR Nara Line (local or limited express for faster travel).
Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha and one of the world's largest wooden buildings.
Interact with the famous friendly wild deer that roam freely throughout Nara Park.
Deer crackers (shika senbei) are available for purchase to feed the deer. They can be quite persistent!
Savor local Nara specialties for lunch, such as Kakinoha Sushi (sushi wrapped in a persimmon leaf) or Chagayu (tea gruel), in a charming local eatery.
Stroll through the exquisite traditional Japanese garden of Isuien, known for its 'borrowed scenery,' and then visit Kofuku-ji Temple with its iconic five-story pagoda.
Take the train back to Kyoto after a full day of exploring Nara's historical treasures and charming deer.
Use the JR Nara Line (local or limited express for faster travel).
Enjoy another delightful Kaiseki dinner in Kyoto, perhaps at a different restaurant, to further experience the seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation unique to this multi-course Japanese dining.
Explore Kyoto's 'Kitchen,' a lively and historic market street filled with vendors offering fresh produce, seafood, traditional snacks, and unique culinary delights.
Enjoy various tastings as you wander.
Try local specialties such as 'tsukemono' (pickles), 'yuba' (tofu skin), and freshly made Japanese sweets.
Participate in a hands-on private cooking class with a local chef, learning to prepare classic Kyoto dishes like sushi, tempura, or a bento box.
Enjoy your delicious creations for lunch.
A personalized experience to delve into the secrets of Kyoto's renowned cuisine.
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's artistic heritage with a hands-on workshop, choosing from experiences like Kyo-yuzen silk dyeing, ceramic art, or traditional Japanese paper making.
Create your own unique souvenir.
Many studios offer English-friendly instruction and private sessions.
Indulge in an unforgettable dining experience at one of Kyoto's world-renowned Michelin-starred restaurants.
Choose from innovative modern Japanese cuisine, classic kaiseki, or exquisite French-Japanese fusion.
Reservations are absolutely essential, often requiring booking several months in advance for top establishments.
Explore the magnificent Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former residence of the Tokugawa Shogun.
Admire its 'nightingale floors' and elaborate artwork.
Take time to explore both the Ninomaru Palace and the beautiful surrounding gardens.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll and some upscale shopping along Shijo-dori, Kyoto's main commercial street, featuring luxury boutiques, department stores, and traditional craft shops.
Experience Kyoto's sophisticated international dining scene with a high-quality Italian, French, or contemporary Japanese fusion lunch.
Unwind and rejuvenate with a personalized treatment at a luxury spa, either within your ryokan or a renowned hotel spa in Kyoto.
Choose from a range of traditional Japanese therapies or modern spa treatments.
Conclude your Kyoto experience with a memorable farewell dinner at a high-end Yakiniku (Japanese grilled meat) restaurant, featuring premium, melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu beef.
Savor the exquisite taste of carefully selected Japanese beef, often grilled at your table.
Board a Nozomi Shinkansen from Kyoto Station to Hiroshima Station.
Enjoy the scenic journey through the Japanese countryside.
Comfortable Green Car (First Class) seats are recommended for a luxury experience. The Japan Rail Pass (if purchased) may not cover Nozomi trains, so an individual ticket might be needed.
Check into your luxury hotel in Hiroshima, offering impeccable service and amenities.
Take some time to relax and freshen up after your journey.
The Sheraton is conveniently located next to Hiroshima Station.
Indulge in a sophisticated lunch featuring local Hiroshima specialties or international cuisine at your hotel or a nearby high-end restaurant.
A profound and essential visit to understand the history of Hiroshima and the impact of the atomic bomb.
The museum presents a powerful message of peace.
Allow ample time for reflection. The museum can be emotionally impactful.
Walk through the serene park, visiting the Atomic Bomb Dome, Children's Peace Monument, and Flame of Peace.
Reflect on the history and the city's dedication to peace.
Savor Hiroshima's signature dish, okonomiyaki, at a highly-rated, upscale restaurant that elevates this local favorite to a gourmet experience.
Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki features layers of ingredients, often including noodles.
Take a short train ride from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi, followed by a scenic ferry ride to Miyajima Island.
The ferry offers beautiful views of the floating torii gate.
The ferry is operated by JR, so if you have a Japan Rail Pass (or a specific JR West pass), it might be included. Otherwise, purchase a ticket at the port.
Visit the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its 'floating' torii gate, especially beautiful at high tide.
Explore the shrine complex and observe the intricate architecture.
Check tide times in advance to see the torii gate both floating and at low tide when you can walk up to it.
Discover Daisho-in Temple, a beautiful and complex temple with various halls, statues, and unique features, offering a more tranquil experience away from the main crowds.
Don't miss the 'spinning sutras' along the steps to the main hall, said to grant the same merit as reading the sutras.
Enjoy a exquisite lunch featuring Miyajima's renowned fresh oysters and anago (conger eel) at a charming local restaurant with island views.
Ascend Mount Misen via ropeway for breathtaking panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, surrounding islands, and even Hiroshima in the distance.
Explore the peak and its temples.
Wear comfortable shoes as there's some walking involved at the summit. Keep an eye out for wild deer and monkeys!
Take the ferry back to Miyajimaguchi and the train to Hiroshima, enjoying the sunset views over the sea.
Enjoy sophisticated cocktails at a rooftop bar in Hiroshima, offering stunning city views, a perfect end to your day.
Visit the reconstructed Hiroshima Castle, originally built in the 1590s.
Explore its impressive grounds, moat, and the museum inside the main keep, offering insights into feudal Japan.
Enjoy a peaceful stroll around the castle grounds, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season (if applicable).
Wander through the picturesque Shukkei-en Garden, a traditional Japanese landscape garden featuring miniature landscapes of mountains, valleys, and forests. Enjoy its tranquil beauty.
The garden is particularly stunning with its reflections in the central pond. Take your time to appreciate the artistry.
Indulge in an exquisite lunch at one of Hiroshima's acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurants, offering a refined culinary journey of Japanese or international cuisine.
Reservations are essential for Michelin-starred establishments, often weeks in advance.
Participate in a private cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki from a local chef.
Enjoy your delicious creation afterward.
This hands-on experience offers a deeper appreciation for local cuisine.
Discover the nuanced world of Japanese sake with a guided tasting of premium local brews.
Learn about different types of sake and the brewing process.
Hiroshima is known for its excellent sake, often praised for its soft, mellow taste.
Conclude your day with an exquisite sushi dinner at a top-tier restaurant, savoring fresh, expertly prepared seafood.
Consider an Omakase (chef's choice) menu for the ultimate experience.
Embark on a unique excursion to Okunoshima, famously known as Rabbit Island, where hundreds of friendly wild rabbits roam freely.
Enjoy interacting with the rabbits and exploring the island's history.
This involves a train ride (approx. 1 hour) and a short ferry (15 minutes). Pack some rabbit food if you wish, or purchase it there.
Indulge in a relaxing and rejuvenating private onsen (hot spring) bath or a luxurious spa treatment at your hotel or a nearby high-end facility in Hiroshima.
A perfect way to unwind after your adventures. Confirm reservation in advance.
Experience an exquisite multi-course Kaiseki dinner, a traditional Japanese haute cuisine, at a highly-regarded restaurant.
Each dish is a work of art, reflecting seasonality and delicate flavors.
This is a quintessential luxury Japanese dining experience. Book well in advance.
Enjoy a final nightcap at a quiet and elegant hotel lounge or a sophisticated local bar, reflecting on your incredible journey through Japan.
Enjoy a final luxurious breakfast at your hotel before preparing for your departure.
Grab any last-minute gifts or souvenirs from the shops near Hiroshima Station or at the airport.
Complete your check-out procedures at the hotel.
Take a limousine bus or taxi from your hotel to Hiroshima Airport for your domestic flight to Tokyo.
Limousine bus is cost-effective, while a taxi offers more convenience and luxury. Bus takes about 50 minutes.
Board a domestic flight from Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) to Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND), preparing for your international departure.
Choose a reputable airline like JAL or ANA for a comfortable journey.
Arrive at Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) with ample time for check-in and security for your international flight back to Nice.
Board your flight from Tokyo Haneda (HND) back to Nice (NCE), concluding your unforgettable journey.
Enjoy the comforts of business or first class for your long-haul flight.
This 20-day itinerary for Tokyo can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.