The Classic Japan Tour 11D10N
£4335
The Classic Japan Tour 11D10N
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day journey through Japan’s most iconic destinations, blending ancient traditions with modern marvels.
from £4335
Start in the vibrant city of Tokyo, strolling through historic shrines and buzzing markets, before escaping to the natural beauty of Hakone for serene hot springs and a hike along the storied Old Tokaido Road. Discover Kyoto’s timeless allure with its geisha districts, bamboo forests, and World Heritage temples. Conclude your adventure in Hiroshima, where poignant history and the sacred island of Miyajima leave a lasting impression. Perfect for first-time visitors and culture seekers, this curated experience offers the essence of Japan—rich in heritage, hospitality, and breathtaking sights.
• Explore bustling Tokyo, marvel at the beauty of Tokyo skyline from the top of Tokyo
Skytree.
• Explore the beauty of Hakone National Park.
• Explore the heritage sites and the fascinating untold stories in Kyoto.
• Visit UNESCO World Heritage Miyajima and Hiroshima
Inclusive of:
- Admission fees, transportation and licensed tour guides as specified in the itinerary
- 4* Accommodation as listed or similar
- Meals as listed
- Tour insurance, service charges and any government taxes
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Dee Burchmore
07400351073
dee@deesglobalgetaways.co.uk
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Description
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Map
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Highlights
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Additional Info
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Pricing
Arrival in Tokyo
Welcome to Tokyo!
You will be transferred to your accommodation through shared transfer.
Overnight in Tokyo.
Optional Service:
1. Haneda / Narita Airport Meet & Greet
Shiba Park Hotel is a well-established 4-star hotel located in the heart of Tokyo’s Minato district, offering a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and traditional Japanese hospitality. Positioned near Tokyo Tower and within walking distance of Shiba Park, this hotel provides easy access to both cultural landmarks and modern city attractions. Its serene yet central setting makes it ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Haneda Airport is just a short drive away, adding to its accessibility for international guests.
Meals Included: Na
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Description
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Hotel
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Map
HD Shared Tour: Ueno, Ameyokocho, Akihabara
Meet your guide in front of the Tokyo National Museum’s gate. Your tour will start in Ueno Park. This is a large public park, and it is well known for its cherry blossoms, museums and Ueno Zoo.
Today we will head towards Toshogu Shrine, it was built in 1627 and it is dedicated to the memory of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. First, admire the shrine from outside, then, let’s enter within its walls. Visitors are not allowed into the main hall of the shrine, but entering within the walls will allow you to closely inspect and appreciate its traditional architecture. Take some pictures, then after another stroll in the park we will reach Ameyokocho Market. This is a collection of stores located under the elevated railway line connecting JR Ueno Station and Okachimachi Station. Ameyoko was a huge marketplace after World War II, it started as a black market and even today you can find a great bargain. Stroll along the area and sample some of the street food that you can find here.
The final stop for today will be in the Akihabara area. First, visit Kanda Myojin. This is a shrine with over 1,300 years of history. Pray for prosperity, good luck and marriage at the Kanda Myojin Shrine, where three major kami (god) are enshrined. After visiting Kanda Myojin, stroll in Akihabara where the tour ends at the station.
** The guide will be in front of Tokyo National Museum with a sign at 9am. The tour will depart at 9:15 and will NOT wait for people who arrive late**
** Note that the tour will be a walking tour, and no transportation (either private or public) is included **
Start time: 9am
Duration: 4h
Inclusions: English Speaking Guide for 4h, entrance fees, snacks allowance in Ameyokocho Market
Optional tour:
Food Tour in Ginza
In this 3-hours food tour, experience Tokyo's culinary hidden gems! Travelling through Ginza, your guide will show you the sights, sounds and tastes of a Tokyo that most tourist don't get to experience: walking through lively restaurants districts you will feel like being in the 70s of Japan, experiencing the "Showa Period vibes". Explore interesting food spots along the way and taste for yourself the tradition and pride behind these Tokyo historic spots. Have the chance to dine with locals for an evening you’ll surely never forget.
Inclusion: Allstar Food Tour Shared
• English speaking guide
• 1 complimentary drink
• Local dishes at 4 stops
• Dessert
Meet up time: 3:45pm
Start time: 4pm
Meet in front of the Ginza Wako Building, End last place visited.
Shiba Park Hotel is a well-established 4-star hotel located in the heart of Tokyo’s Minato district, offering a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and traditional Japanese hospitality. Positioned near Tokyo Tower and within walking distance of Shiba Park, this hotel provides easy access to both cultural landmarks and modern city attractions. Its serene yet central setting makes it ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Haneda Airport is just a short drive away, adding to its accessibility for international guests.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tokyo
Tokyo is the vibrant capital city of Japan, famous for its unique blend of traditional and modern cultures. With its bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, and delicious food, Tokyo is a must-visit destination for any traveler. The city is home to more than 13 million people, making it one of the largest and most populous cities in the world.
Visitors to Tokyo will be struck by the city's incredible energy and excitement, as well as its rich history and cultural heritage. From the iconic Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world, to the serene grounds of the Meiji Shrine, Tokyo has something to offer everyone.
One of the city's main attractions is its delicious cuisine, which ranges from classic Japanese dishes like sushi and tempura, to international options like Italian and French cuisine. Tokyo is known for having some of the best street food in the world, with a huge selection of food stalls and vendors selling everything from traditional Japanese sweets to juicy skewers of grilled meat.
For those interested in shopping, Tokyo is a paradise, with endless department stores, boutiques, and street vendors selling everything from traditional Japanese goods to the latest in cutting-edge fashion and technology. The city is also home to some of the world's most famous electronics stores, making it a great place to pick up the latest gadgets and gizmos.
When it comes to entertainment, Tokyo has a lot to offer. From traditional performances like Kabuki theater, to modern pop concerts and music festivals, the city is a hub for the arts and culture. There are also many museums and galleries to visit, showcasing everything from classical Japanese art to modern contemporary pieces.
For those looking for some peace and quiet, Tokyo has many parks and gardens to explore, including the beautiful Ueno Park and the tranquil grounds of the Imperial Palace. The city is also surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, from the towering peaks of Mount Fuji to the scenic coastlines of the Izu Peninsula.
No trip to Tokyo would be complete without a visit to its iconic neighborhoods, such as Akihabara, known for its electronics and anime culture, or the trendy neighborhoods of Harajuku and Shibuya, famous for their street fashion and shopping.
Overview
Those that have been on holiday in Tokyo before will testify that the sky scrapper filled hyperactive skyline changes as regularly as the sun rises and sets. Buy a Tokyo holiday is by no means a departure from traditional Japanese culture and heritage. Tokyo holidays may epitomise a super modern city with a cosmopolitan dining scene, more cafes and bars than you could visit in a lifetime, fantastic public transportation and grassy parks, but it is also a city that is fiercely protective of its heritage.
Destination: Japanese heritage lives on in Tokyo
Tokyo may appear to be a city that is fixated on the future, but dig beneath the neon façade and masses of people and you will find tranquil backstreets, where dinky wooden houses are fronted by neatly clipped bonsai trees. Holidays in Tokyo promise energetic neighbourhood festivals almost every day of the year. The onsens which are public baths cherished by locals as an escape from the frantic energy of the city are still is popular as ever and most locals still frequently visit the many local shrine and temples.
Destination: Culinary Tokyo Holidays
If you like sushi then nothing beats the authentic experience of sampling the best sushi you have every eaten whilst on holiday in Tokyo. The city also boasts more Michelin starred restaurants than any other destination and Tokyo’s artisan culture makes the dining experience here truly unique. The recipes and techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation mean that even the most common dishes on Japanese restaurant menus across the world taste better in Tokyo. Whether this is because of the quality of ingredients, the fresh produce that is used or the attention to detail that is seen even in the preparation of a bowl of noodles, your taste buds will not be disappointed during your Tokyo holiday..
Destination: Shopping in Tokyo
The strength of the pound against the yen means that shopping is true highlight of any holiday in Tokyo. Tokyo is of course famous for its electronics and gadgets and that means you will need to budget for paying the airline for your overweight luggage on the way home. Just make sure you bring a spare suitcase! And its not just the futuristic toys that will lighten your wallet during your holiday in Tokyo. The trend setting garments and local crafts are all extremely desirable.
Destination: Tokyo Climate
The Japanese are very proud of the fact that Japan has four distinct seasons; they place much more emphasis on the seasons than people do in the West. Kimono, dishes and bowls used for kaiseki (elaborate feasts utilizing seasonal food), and Noh plays all change with the seasons, and most festivals are tied to seasonal rites. Even Tokyoites note the seasons: Almost as though on cue, businesspeople will change virtually overnight from their winter to summer business attire. And when the cherry blossoms burst forth, it seems like the entire metropolis comes out to greet them.
Destination: Summer in Tokyo
Summer, which begins in June, is heralded by the rainy season, which lasts from about mid-June to mid-July in Tokyo. July, on the average, has 10 to 12 rainy days, but even though it doesn't rain every day, umbrellas are imperative. When the rain stops, it gets unbearably hot and humid through August -- you might want to head for Hakone for a bit of fresh air. Otherwise, you'll be most comfortable in light cottons, and you'd be wise to pack sunscreen and a hat (Japanese women are also fond of sun parasols), but be sure to pack a lightweight jacket for unexpected cool evenings and overly air-conditioned rooms. The period from the end of August through September is typhoon season, though most storms stay out at sea and vent their fury on land as thunderstorms.
Destination: Tokyo Autumn
Autumn, which lasts September through November, is one of the best times to visit Tokyo. The days are pleasant and slightly cool, the skies are a brilliant blue, and the maple trees turn scarlet. Bring a warm jacket.
Destination: Finding the chill in Tokyo
Winter lasts from about December to March in Tokyo, with days that are generally clear and cold with extremely low humidity. Tokyo doesn't get much snow, but it can, so be prepared. I remember one winter when snow fell in a slushy mush through March and into the cherry-blossom season. In any case, the temperature is usually above freezing.
Destination: Tokyo spring time
Spring is ushered in by a magnificent fanfare of plum and cherry blossoms in March and April, an exquisite time of year when all of Japan is set ablaze in whites and pinks. The blossoms last only a few days, symbolizing to the Japanese the fragile nature of beauty and of life itself. Tokyo may still have cool, rainy weather until May, so be sure to bring a light raincoat or jacket.
Destination: Visiting the tuna auction
The number of visitors to the tuna auction is limited to 120 per day, the maximum number which the market's infrastructure can accommodate. Tourists, who wish to see the auction, have to apply at the Osakana Fukyu Center (Fish Information Center) at the Kachidoki Gate, starting from 5:00am on a first-come, first-serve basis (may start earlier on busy days). A first group of 60 visitors will be admitted to the auction between 5:25 and 5:50, while a second group of 60 visitors will be admitted between 5:50 and 6:15.
On busy days, visitors start lining up long before 5am, and the maximum number is likely to be exceeded, in which case later arriving visitors will not be able to see the auction. Successful applicants will be able to view the auction from a designated visitor area. It is not allowed to view the auction from anywhere else or to use flash photography or to interfere with the business action in any other way.
Destination: Visiting the wholesale area
The wholesale area consists of hundreds of small stands in a large, crowded hall, where buyers and sellers hurry along narrow lanes with their carts and trucks. It is an exciting area for tourists to view and photograph the fish and the action, but it is also an area where tourists are likely to interfere with the professionals at work.
Consequently, in order to prevent accidents and interference with business, tourists are not allowed into the wholesale area before 9am, when the peak of the business activities take place. Even when visiting after 9am, tourists are asked to refrain from bringing any luggage into the market and to be constantly alert of what is happening around them to avoid blocking traffic.
Destination: Visiting other areas of the market
Instead of visiting the inner market, tourists are encouraged to visit Tsukiji's outer market, which is located just adjacent to the inner market and caters to the public. The outer market consists of a few blocks of small retail shops and restaurants crowded along narrow lanes. Here you can find all sorts of food related goods, knives and fresh seafood and produce for sale in smaller (than wholesale) portions.
A visit to Tsukiji Market is best combined with a fresh sushi breakfast or lunch at one of the local restaurants. There are restaurants both in the inner and outer market area, which are typically open from 5:00 in the morning to around noon or early afternoon.
Destination: Electronics
Hundreds of electronics shops, ranging from tiny one man stalls specializing in a particular electronic component to large electronics retailers, line the main Chuo Dori street and the crowded side streets around Akihabara. They offer everything from the newest computers, cameras, televisions, mobile phones, electronics parts and home appliances to second-hand goods and electronic junk.
A few chain stores such as Sofmap and Laox each operate multiple specialized branches along the main roads, while small independent shops can be found in the side streets. The only mega sized store is the Yodobashi Camera complex on the east side of the station.
Note that some of the electronics on sale are only intended for use in Japan due to voltage and other technical differences, Japanese language documentation and limited warranties. However, several stores also feature a selection of international models intended for overseas use, and most also offer tax free shopping to foreign tourists on purchases of over 10,000 yen (passport required).
Destination: Otaku Goods
The character of Akihabara has constantly changed over the decades and continues to do so. In the last decade Akihabara has emerged as a center of Japanese otaku and anime culture, and dozens of stores specializing in anime, manga, retro video games, figurines, card games and other collectibles have filled the spaces between the electronics retailers.
In addition to shops, various other animation related establishments have become popular in the area, particularly maid cafes where waitresses dress up and act like maids or anime characters, and manga cafes (manga kissa), a type of internet cafe where customers can read comics and watch DVDs in addition to having access to the internet.
Destination: Sofmap
Sofmap operates 12 shops around Akihabara. In addition to their main store, they have many specialty branches that feature a type of item such as Apple products, CDs or games, as well as a number of outlets for used products such as used computers, cameras, CDs and software.
Destination: Laox
Operating three stores in Akihabara, including the Main Store and Pocket Plus One mobile products store that both sell tax free items, as well as the Musicvox branch specializing in musical instruments and Asobitcity branch that carries hobby and game related products.
Destination: Yamada Denki
Yamada Denki operates a "LABI" store just across the street from the Akihabara Electric Town exit of JR Akihabara Station. It specializes in personal computers, pc accessories and household electronics.
Destination: Akky
Akky specializes in tax free goods and operates two shops around Akihabara Station. Akky sells a variety of electronic equipment for overseas use, including cameras, computers, televisions, DVD players and software. Some branches carry used or refurbished items.
Destination: Yodobashi Camera
The Shinjuku based discount electronic store giant Yodobashi Camera opened its huge Akihabara branch in September 2005. Unlike most other electronic shops, it is located on the east side of Akihabara Station. This branch offers one stop shopping for computers, games, watches and cameras, and sells tax free and international models.
Destination: Maid Cafes
Maid cafes are cosplay themed restaurants where guests are served by waitresses that are typically dressed as French maids. In addition to serving food, the maids engage in conversation and games with the customers and treat them with the care and respectful language due to the master of a house. Maid cafes are popular with both men and women, and some cafes, like the @Home Cafe, offer English speaking maids.
Destination: Tokyo Anime Center
The Tokyo Anime Center is found on the fourth floor of the UDX Building of Akihabara Crossfield. It stages anime related exhibitions, hosts anime related events and contains a shop selling toys, stationery and other souvenirs.
Destination: Don Quijote
Don Quijote is a discount store chain that carries everything from groceries and toys to electronics and high end fashion goods. The Akihabara branch is home to the girl pop group AKB48, who perform daily shows at their theater on the 8th floor of the store (3000 yen). There is also a branch of the @Home Cafe maid cafe on the 5th floor of the store.
Destination: Radio Kaikan
Radio Kaikan is one of Akihabara's iconic landmarks, and features more than 30 stores selling electronics and other anime related goods. Some of the famous stores include K-Books, Kaiyodo and Volks which sell all kinds of manga, models, toys, trading cards, figurines and collectibles. The building was torn down in 2011, was rebuilt, and reopened its doors in 2014 as a taller, ten story building.
Destination: Super Potato
Super Potato sells all types of video games and video game consoles, and specializes in retro systems and games. Here you can find practically every game system ever produced along with a huge selection of used game cartridges, discs and game accessories.
Destination: Gamers
Gamers sells a wide range of anime and manga related goods including movies, video games, CDs, stationery, software and character goods.
Destination: Mandarake
Mandarake, the self described "largest manga and anime shop in the world", operates a large branch in Akihabara. Specializing in pre-owned goods, it is a good place to find rare and collectible manga, figurines, dolls, posters, CDs, toys and other types of manga related goods.
Destination: Gundam Cafe
The Gundam Cafe is themed after the extremely popular Mobile Suit Gundam anime series. The cafe serves gundam themed dishes and is decorated with art and themes from the series. A gift shop is attached and sells character goods and souvenirs.
Destination: AKB48 Cafe and Shop
The AKB48 Cafe next door to the Gundam Cafe is a themed restaurant based on the popular idol group AKB48. The cafe serves food inspired by the idols, and character goods are sold at the attached shops. The cafe has a theater where a rotating cast of AKB members perform daily (reservations required) during scheduled performance times.
Destination: Akihabara Crossfield
The Akihabara Crossfield complex consists of the Akihabara Dai Building and the UDX Building. The lower floors have shops and restaurants, while the upper floors aim to be the "global center for the IT industry" and accommodate offices, conference space and showrooms. The second floor of the UDX Building houses the Akiba Info Center while the fourth floor is home to the Tokyo Anime Center.
Destination: Imperial East Gardens
The Imperial Palace East Gardens (皇居東御苑, Kōkyo Higashi Gyoen) are a part of the inner palace area and are open to the public. They are the former site of Edo Castle's innermost circles of defense, the honmaru ("main circle") and ninomaru ("secondary circle"). None of the main buildings remain today, but the moats, walls, entrance gates and several guardhouses still exist.
Edo Castle was the residence of the Tokugawa shogun who ruled Japan from 1603 to 1867. Emperor Meiji also resided there from 1868 to 1888 before moving to the newly constructed Imperial Palace.
A wide lawn and the remaining foundation of the former castle tower can be found on top of the hill, where the castle's innermost buildings once stood. The castle tower was completed in 1638 as the tallest castle tower in Japan's history. But only a few years later in 1657, it was destroyed by citywide fires and has not been rebuilt ever since.
In place of the former buildings in the secondary circle of defense (ninomaru) at the foot of the hill, a nice Japanese style garden has been created.
Destination: Ginza Wako
Built in 1932, the clock tower of the Ginza Wako building is the symbol of the Ginza, standing at the northwest corner of the district's centrally located Ginza 4-Chome junction of Chuo and Harumi Dori. Inside the building, jewelry and luxury items are sold.
Destination: Sony Building
The newest products by Sony, including DVD recorders, televisions, cameras, audio sets, mobile phones, computers and Play Station products, are displayed to the public in the showrooms in this building. There is also a tourist information desk on the first floor as well as a few shops, restaurants and cafes.
Destination: Kabukiza Theater
Regular tickets for an entire play typically cost between 4,000 and 22,000 yen depending on the seat and require advance reservations. Tickets for just single acts are sold on the day at the theater for around 2,000 yen.
The Kabukiza is one of the best places to see kabuki, featuring plays almost every day. The building was reconstructed and reopened in April 2013. It closely resembles its predecessor except for a skyscraper that now stands above it.
Destination: Yurakucho Gado-shita Dining
One of Tokyo's most interesting dining districts is located beneath the elevated train tracks north and south of Yurakucho Station (in Japanese: Gado-shita from "below the girder"). Stretching over about 700 meters, dozens of restaurants are built into the brick arches below the Yamanote Line, ranging widely from small yakitori joints and izakaya to beer halls and slightly more upscale French wine bars.
Destination: Police Museum
Located just outside of the Ginza area to the north, the four floor Police Museum is operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department and is free of charge. Although there are no English explanations, displays such as historical uniforms and equipment can be easily understood.
Destination: Mitsukoshi
The Ginza store of the Mitsukoshi department store chain was opened in 1930 and offers goods and services on twelve floors. Mitsukoshi's history reaches back to the year 1673.
Destination: Matsuya
The Ginza store of the Matsuya department store chain offers fashion, foods, household goods, a pet shop, a travel agency and an exhibition hall on its eleven floors.
Destination: Printemps
The Ginza store of the Paris based Printemps department store chain offers fashion, accessories, wines, foods and restaurants on ten floors. Printemps Ginza was opened in the year 1984.
Destination: Marronnier Gate
The 12 floor Marronnier Gate shopping mall opened in 2007 close to Yurakucho Station. Clothing stores are located from the basement to the fourth floor, while the top three floors are taken up by restaurants. From the fifth floor to the ninth floor, the building is occupied by the Ginza branch of the popular Tokyu Hands department store.
Destination: Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi
The first department store in Japan, construction of Mitsukoshi's current seven story flagship store was completed in 1935, and was later designated as a historic structure in 1999. There is an adjacent 10 story annex building that has direct connections on a few floors. It is possible to spend an entire day shopping here, and many of its shops are decidedly high end.
Destination: Coredo Muromachi
Located just across the street from the Mitsukoshi department store, Coredo Muromachi is a newly redeveloped shopping and dining complex comprising of multiple elegant skyscrapers. The trendy area has a modern, yet traditional style inspired by the district's past. Many of its stores offer traditional goods and foods from across Japan, and some have operated in the district for many centuries.
Destination: Coredo Nihonbashi
Located just beside Nihonbashi Subway Station, Coredo's approx. 50 shops and restaurants are spread across the lower five floors of the large building. The basement has one of central Tokyo's few regular supermarkets.
Destination: Mitsui Memorial Museum
The museum has elegant exhibition galleries in which objects are displayed from the art collection of the Mitsui family, the same family that opened the nearby Mitsukoshi department store. The museum was opened in 2005 and has regularly changing themed exhibitions and a reconstruction of a teahouse. It is located in the Mitsui Tower complex that also houses the Mandarin Oriental on its top floors.
Destination: Currency Museum
Located in an annex building across the street from the Bank of Japan, the museum was opened in 1982 to commemorate the bank's centenary. A detailed history of currency in Japan is displayed, and there are plenty of interesting historical coins and bills on display.
Destination: Tokyo Dome
Hours and entrance fees vary depending on the specific events.
Tokyo Dome, seating 55,000, is the home stadium of the Yomiuri Giants and Nippon Ham, two professional baseball teams. Concerts, festivals and other events are held in the stadium when there are no games. Tokyo Dome, nicknamed "Big Egg", was completed in 1988 and replaced the former Korakuen Stadium.
Destination: LaQua
Opened in 2003, LaQua is a popular relaxation oasis in the center of busy Tokyo, featuring real hot spring pools, saunas, relaxation space and various massage and beauty services. The hot spring water is brought to the surface from a depth of more than one kilometer.
Destination: Tokyo Dome City Attractions
An amusement park with various rides and entertainment facilities, including roller coasters, a ferris wheel and a tower that drops riders from a height of 80 meters.
Destination: Tokyo Dome Hotel
Opened in June 2000, the hotel consists of 43 floors and 1006 guest rooms with nice views of the city. The hotel includes ten restaurants and bars and several banquet rooms, business and leisure facilities.
Destination: Koishikawa Korakuen
Not part of Tokyo Dome City, but located only a short walk from it, Koishikawa Korakuen is a beautiful landscape garden from the early Edo Period that is enjoyable during all four seasons of the year.
Destination: Marunouchi Building (Marubiru)
Opened in 2002 just in front of Tokyo Station, the Marunouchi Building (Marubiru) is one of the districts landmark buildings. Shopping and restaurants can be found on the lower six floors, while the top two floors (35 and 36) offer nice restaurants with a view over the city.
Destination: Shin Marunouchi Building (Shin Marubiru)
The Shin Marunouchi Building (Shin Marubiru), was opened in 2007 opposite the Marubiru as another landmark building outside of Tokyo Station. It features over 150 shops on its lower five floors and about 40 restaurants on the 5th, 6th and 7th floors. The 7th floor is surrounded by a publicly accessible balcony.
Destination: Kitte
Opened in spring 2013, Kitte (Japanese for postal stamp) is a shopping and dining complex on the lower floors of the JP Tower next to Tokyo Station. The first four floors feature over 70 stores selling mostly fashion and interior goods, while the top two floors contain restaurants and a rooftop garden with views out over Tokyo Station. The Tokyo Central Post Office is located on the ground floor with its facade preserved from the previous building.
Destination: Marunouchi Oazo
Opened in 2004, Oazo is a shopping, dining and hotel complex facing the Marunouchi North Exit of Tokyo Station. Four of Oazo's 18 floors are occupied by the Maruzen bookstore with a large foreign language section, while the top ten floors constitute the Marunouchi Hotel.
Destination: Nakadori Avenue
Spanning the length of the Marunouchi district, Nakadori Avenue is a tree lined shopping street running between the large shopping and office buildings. The street is lined by cafes, fashion boutiques and other shops, and gets closed to motorized traffic during lunch time.
Destination: Marunouchi Brick Square
One of the newer shopping and dining centers in Marunouchi, Brick Square is located along Nakadori near Marubiru. The building's lower two floors feature specialty shops, fashion boutiques, cafes and restaurants, while the 2nd and 3rd floors feature trendy restaurants and bars. The 4th floor houses a fitness gym. The Ichigokan Museum is also part of the Brick Square grounds.
Destination: Tokyo Building Tokia
Tokia is a shopping and dining center in the lower floors of the Tokyo Building, which aims to be an evening spot where people can gather after work to enjoy good food and music in a fun atmosphere. As such it is filled with a variety of trendy restaurants and bars that cater to the after work crowd.
Destination: Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum
Originally built in 1894 for the Mitsubishi Company as the first Western style office building in the Marunouchi district, the Ichigokan was reconstructed and reopened in 2010 as a museum focusing on 19th century Western art.
Destination: Tokyo International Forum
The Tokyo International Forum is one of the city's many architectural highlights. It is a venue for various conventions, exhibitions, concerts and other events. An event calendar can be found on the official website (see links towards the bottom of the page).
Destination: Kaminarimon (Kaminari Gate)
Kaminarimon is the first of two large entrance gates leading to Sensoji Temple. First built more than 1000 years ago, it is the symbol of Asakusa. The Nakamise shopping street leads from Kaminarimon to the temple grounds.
Destination: Sensoji Temple (more details)
Sensoji ("Senso" is an alternative reading for Asakusa and "ji" means temple) is Tokyo's most famous and popular temple. Built in the 7th century, it is also one of its oldest, although the current buildings are postwar reconstructions.
Destination: Asakusa Shrine
Asakusa Shrine, also known as Sanja-sama, was built during the Edo Period and survived the air raids of 1945. The shrine's festival, the Sanja Matsuri, is one of Tokyo's most spectacular and popular. It is held every year on a weekend (Friday to Sunday) in mid May.
Destination: Dempoin Temple
Dempoin is a temple just next to Sensoji, known for its beautiful garden. Unfortunately, the temple and garden are not open to the public. Visiting the garden by appointment, as it used to be possible, cannot be done anymore, either.
Destination: Nakamise Shopping Street
The Nakamise shopping street stretches over approximately 250 meters from Kaminarimon to the main grounds of Sensoji Temple. It is lined by more than 50 shops, which offer local specialties and the usual array of tourist souvenirs.
Destination: Shin-Nakamise Shopping Street
Shin-Nakamise or "New Nakamise" runs perpendicular to the Nakamise Shopping Street. It is a covered shopping arcade lined by various shops and restaurants.
Destination: Kappabashi Shopping Street (more details)
Kappabashi is an almost one kilometer long street lined by shops catering to restaurant businesses. Items on sale include tableware, kitchen utensils and appliances, sample food, furniture, signs, lanterns and uniforms.
Destination: Rox Department Store
Rox is a shopping and entertainment complex consisting of a main building (Rox) and three annex buildings (Rox2G, Rox3 and Rox Dome). Many shops sell fashion for ladies and kids. There is a 24h supermarket in the basement.
Destination: Tobu Asakusa Station & Matsuya Department Store
Tobu Asakusa Station is the terminal station of Tobu trains heading into the suburbs and prefectures north of Tokyo, including trains to Nikko. The station building also houses a Matsuya department store that spans eight floors.
Destination: Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center was newly opened in 2012, adding diversity to the streets of Asakusa with its interesting architectural design. The eight story building offers a counter providing tourist information in multiple languages, free wifi connectivity, a cafe, and an observation deck which provides good views looking onto Sensoji Temple and the Nakamise Shopping Street.
Destination: Sumida River Cruise
Tokyo Water Bus operates sightseeing ships every 30 to 60 minutes from Asakusa Pier via Hama Rikyu Garden to Hinode Pier, where you can transfer to a ship to Odaiba. In addition, there are less frequent, direct ships from Asakusa to Odaiba.
Destination: Sumida Park
This riverside park stretches along both sides of Sumida River for several hundred meters. In spring it becomes a popular cherry blossom viewing spot, while on the last Saturday of July it becomes the site of the Sumida River Firework.
Destination: Rokku Entertainment District
Rokku used to be Tokyo's leading entertainment district before the war, hosting Japan's first cinema and more. However, the district has not regained its former popularity after the war. Today, Rokku offers attractions such as rakugo theaters, cinemas and pachinko parlors.
Destination: Hanayashiki Amusement Park
Originally opened as a flower park, Hanayashiki has a history of more than 150 years. Located just a few steps from Sensoji, the miniature amusement park offers numerous attractions, including a small Ferris wheel, roller coaster, carousel and Space Shot.
Destination: Asahi Beer Tower
The Asahi Beer Tower and Asahi Super Dry Hall with its characteristic Flamme d'Or were, completed in 1989 and host the headquarters of Asahi Breweries. Furthermore, several restaurants can be found in the complex.
Destination: Taikokan (Drum Museum)
Drums from around the world, including Japanese taiko drums, are exhibited in this small museum. Visitors can play several of the drums. The museum is located in a floor above the Miyamoto Unosuke Nishi Asakusa store, which sells Japanese drums and festival goods.
Destination: Kaneiji Temple
During the Edo Period Kaneiji Temple was one of the largest and wealthiest temples in the city. It was destroyed during the Boshin War, and remnants of the original temple complex, such as its five storied pagoda and Toshogu Shrine, are scattered around the park. The current Kaneiji is a relatively unremarkable, small temple located in a quiet neighborhood near the northwest corner of Ueno Park.
Destination: Kiyomizu Kannon Temple
Kiyomizu Kannondo was originally built in 1631 as part of Kaneiji Temple. Its design, including a wooden balcony extending from the hillside, was inspired by Kiyomizudera in Kyoto. The temple is home to an image of Kosodate Kannon, the goddess of conception, and is particularly popular among women hoping to have children.
Destination: Toshogu Shrine
Ueno Toshogu Shrine was built in 1616 and is one of numerous shrines across the country that are dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo Shogunate. The Ueno Toshogu Shrine used to be incorporated into Kaneiji Temple until 1868. Major renovation works were completed in 2013. Special entrance to the shrine's Botan Garden from Jan to mid Feb and mid Apr to early May (600 yen).
Destination: Bentendo
Bentendo is an octagonal temple hall on an island in Shinobazu Pond at the southern end of the park. The temple is dedicated to Benten, the goddess of good fortune, wealth, music and knowledge. Bentendo's grounds are especially lively during the cherry blossom season when they are crowded with festival food stalls.
Destination: Tokyo National Museum (more details)
The oldest and largest museum in Japan, the Tokyo National Museum is made up of multiple buildings, each like a separate museum in itself. They house the largest collection of national treasures and important cultural items in the country.
Destination: National Science Museum
This museum covers both science and natural history with hands-on physics and robotics experiments, an impressive collection of mounted animals and a 360 degree virtual theater relocated from the Aichi Expo.
Destination: Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum
Reopened in April 2012, this museum displays all types of art in its six galleries. There is no permanent collection, but multiple concurrently held temporary exhibitions by various art groups. Some exhibitions are paid, others are free.
Destination: National Museum of Western Art
Admission: 430 yen (free on 2nd and 4th Saturday each month, and Nov 3)
This museum displays Western art, primarily by European artists. There are rotating exhibitions from the museum's collection as well as temporary special exhibitions.
Destination: Shitamachi Museum
Shitamachi is the name of the artisan and merchant part of old Tokyo. This nostalgic museum has exhibits and reconstructions that show what life was like in Tokyo from the late Meiji to early Showa Periods.
Destination: Ueno Zoo
Opened in 1882, Ueno Zoo is Japan's oldest zoo. Its most popular residents are giant panda bears, which first moved here in 1972 on the occasion of the normalization of relations between Japan and China. The zoo temporarily had no pandas after the death of Ling Ling in 2008, but received two new baby pandas in February 2011.
Destination: Tobu
Located on top of the west exit of Ikebukuro Station is the Tobu Department Store, one of Tokyo's largest department stores. It belongs to the Tobu Group, which also operates several suburban railway lines, including the Tobu Tojo Line which terminates at Ikebukuro Station.
Destination: Seibu
Located on top of the east exit of Ikebukuro Station is the flagship Seibu Department Store, another of Tokyo's largest department stores. It belongs to the Seibu Group, which also operates several suburban railway lines, including the Seibu Ikebukuro Line which terminates at Ikebukuro Station.
Destination: Marui
Marui Department Store is a leading fashion retailer with branch stores in almost all of Tokyo's major districts. Marui's Ikebukuro Branch is located a few blocks west of Ikebukuro Station and sells mens and womens fashion and accessories and household goods.
Destination: Sunshine City
Opened in 1978, Sunshine City is Tokyo's first city within the city. The focal point of the complex is the 240 meter tall Sunshine 60 skyscraper with an observation deck on its top floor. The complex also contains shops and restaurants, an aquarium, planetarium, museum, indoor theme parks, as well as the Sunshine Prince Hotel and offices. Sunshine City's shops are open daily from 10:00 to 20:00, restaurants from 11:00 to 22:00.
Destination: Sunshine 60 Observation Deck
The Sunshine 60 Observation Deck will be closed from May 7, 2015 for about one year for renovation. The observation deck is located on the top floor of the 240 meter tall Sunshine 60 skyscraper. It is not as centrally located as other observation decks in Tokyo. The building also used to have an open air observation deck, but it was closed to the public in summer 2012.
Destination: Namja Town
Namja Town is an indoor theme park by Namco, the creator of Pacman and many other arcade games and leisure products. Namja Town was recently renovated and includes various small rides and attractions. There are two food corners specialized in gyoza and desserts, in a nice Showa Period town setting with recreated old alleys.
Destination: J-World Tokyo
Located just above Namja Town is J-World Tokyo, another indoor theme park by Namco. J-World Tokyo was newly opened in July 2013 and is based on characters and stories from popular manga series. There are a handful of attractions themed on the hit series of Dragonball, One Piece and Naruto, as well as souvenir shops and carnival game stalls.
Destination: Sunshine Aquarium
The Sunshine Aquarium exhibits creatures from seas, oceans and tropical forests around the world, including stingrays, sunfish, frogs, snakes, penguins, seals and otters. Located on the 10th floor of the World Import Mart Building in the Sunshine City complex, the aquarium was recently renovated and reopened in summer 2011.
Destination: Bic Camera
Bic Camera, one of Japan's leading discount electronics retailers, has its flagship store at the East Exit of Ikebukuro Station. Several more branch stores are located on both sides of the station, including a new outlet branch.
Destination: Yamada Denki
Yamada Denki is one of Japan's most successful electronics chains, and has recently opened branches around Ikebukuro Station in direct competition with Bic Camera. Its branches are found on the east side of the station.
Destination: Tokyo Metropolitan Art Space
The Tokyo Metropolitan Art Space is a public art center that mainly features performing arts, especially concerts, operas, theater and musicals. Its main hall is equipped with one of the largest pipe organs in Japan.
Destination: Kokugikan Sumo Stadium
The Kokugikan seats over 10,000 visitors and hosts three of the six annual sumo tournaments (in January, May and September). On non-tournament days, a shop selling various sumo goods and a small sumo museum are open to visitors.
Destination: Edo-Tokyo Museum (more details)
Through numerous models of towns, figurines, life-sized figures and many other exhibits, this outstanding museum vividly illustrates the past of Tokyo.
Destination: Tokyo Memorial Hall
Located in Yokoamicho Park, the memorial hall serves to remember the victims of the Tokyo air raids during World War Two. Peace is advocated, and prayers for the victims can be made. Next to the hall stands a memorial monument for the Korean victims, as well as a peace monument.
Destination: Great Kanto Earthquake Memorial Museum
Also located in Yokoamicho Park, this museum displays remains of the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, as well as items which demonstrate the aids which foreign countries rendered to help Tokyo in the aftermath of the disaster.
Destination: Kyu-Yasuda Teien Garden
The Kyu-Yasuda Teien Garden has a pond in the shape of the Japanese kanji "kokoro", meaning "heart". It is known to be a garden representative of a Meiji Period style garden.
Destination: Center Gai
The birthplace of many Japanese fashion trends, Center Gai is a busy pedestrian zone in the heart of Shibuya lined by stores, boutiques and game centers. In the evenings the street is crowded with young people heading to night clubs, restaurants and bars, or just loitering around.
Destination: Koen Dori
Koen Dori, lit. "Park Street", is a popular shopping street leading from the Marui department store to Yoyogi Park. It was named after Parco department store (parco is Italian for park) and the fact that the street leads to Yoyogi Park.
Destination: Spain Slope
Spain Slope (Supeinzaka) is a narrow, approximately 100 meter long pedestrian street with stairs leading up the slope to the Parco department store. It is lined by boutiques, cafes and restaurants, and was nicknamed for its resemblance to a Spanish street scene.
Destination: Love Hotel Hill
This area of Shibuya has a high concentration of love hotels, which offer couples a private room for a 2 to 3 hour "rest" during the day (usually around 5,000 yen) or an overnight "stay" (usually around 10,000 yen).
Destination: Shibuya Hikarie
Shibuya Hikarie is a new high rise complex with cultural space just east of Shibuya Station. Besides a theater and exhibition floors, it offers office space on its upper floors and shopping and dining on its lower floors.
Destination: Tokyu
There are two Tokyu department stores in Shibuya: the twelve floor Shibuya Station branch sits above Shibuya Station, while the ten floor main store is located a 5-10 minute walk northwest of the station.
Destination: Shibuya 109
Shibuya 109 is a trend setting fashion complex for young women and an icon of the Shibuya district with more than one hundred boutiques on ten floors. Usually pronounced "Shibuya ichi maru kyu", the complex's name can also be read as "Shibuya to kyu", identifying the complex as part of the Tokyu Group.
Destination: Shibuya Mark City
Shibuya Mark City is a small city within the city, located just next to and connected with JR Shibuya Station. It consists of a wide range of stores and restaurants, the Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu, office space, a bus terminal and the terminal station of the Keio Inokashira Line.
Destination: Tokyu Hands
Promoted as a "Creative Life Store", Tokyu Hands has everything from do-it-yourself, interior, hobby, crafts, outdoors, travel goods, stationery and more. The Shibuya store spans eight floors.
Destination: Seibu
The Shibuya branch of the Seibu department store chain consists of nine floors, featuring mainly fashion goods and some fashion boutiques. Restaurants can be found on the top and bottom floors.
Destination: Loft
Loft is Seibu's answer to Tokyu Hands, and also offering a large array of products related to interior, hobby, crafts and gifts, but with less emphasis on do-it-yourself products. The Loft Shibuya branch consists of seven floors.
Destination: Parco
Parco is a shopping complex with an emphasis on fashion. The complex consists of numerous branch stores in the Shibuya area: Part 1, Part 3, Quattro, Zero Gate and Up's-4 found mainly around Koen Dori and the Spain Slope.
Destination: Marui
Marui Department Store is a leading fashion retailer with branch stores in almost all of Tokyo's major districts. Their Shibuya branch stores specialize in men's and women's fashion and are found north of the station around Koen Dori.
Destination: Hachiko Statue
A statue of a loyal dog named Hachiko. According to a famous story, the dog waited for his master every day in front of Shibuya Station, and continued to do so for years even after his master had passed away. It is one of Tokyo's most popular meeting points.
Destination: Bunkamura
Located directly next to the Tokyu department store (main store), Bunkamura, lit. "culture village", consists of a concert hall, a theater, two cinemas, a museum with constantly changing exhibitions, and a few shops and restaurants.
Destination: Fuji TV Building
Hours: 10:00 to 18:00 (some restaurants until 20:00, 22:00 on weekends)
Closed: Mondays (or Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday).
Admission: Free (observation deck: 550 yen)
The headquarters of Fuji Television, one of Japan's private, nationwide TV stations. You can see some exhibits on popular programs, buy Fuji TV goods at a shop and access the futuristic looking building's observatory deck housed in the sphere shaped part of the building.
Destination: Decks Tokyo Beach
Closed: No closing days
Admission: Free (separate admission fees for theme parks)
Decks is a shopping mall featuring various stores, restaurants and multiple indoor theme parks, including the Tokyo Joypolis (reopened in July 2012 after renovations), a Legoland Discovery Center, a Madam Tussauds wax museum and a trick art museum. A Hong Kong themed food theme park and the Muscle Park were closed in 2010.
Destination: Aquacity Odaiba
Aquacity is a shopping mall featuring various stores, boutiques, restaurants, cafes and a 13 screen cinema complex. The fifth floor houses a ramen food theme park where you can try different ramen from all over Japan. There are nice views of the Rainbow Bridge from the wooden deck in front of Aquacity and neighboring Decks.
Destination: DiverCity Tokyo Plaza
Closed: No closing days
This shopping, dining and entertainment complex opened in 2012. Its most unique attraction is the Gundam Front Tokyo with various attractions and a shop centered around the anime series' robots. A "life sized" Gundam statue stands in front of the building.
Destination: Rainbow Bridge
The Rainbow Bridge connects Odaiba to the rest of Tokyo. The two story bridge is an iconic symbol of the bay and is especially beautiful during its nightly illumination. The bridge supports an expressway, a regular road, the Yurikamome train line and pedestrian walkways along both sides.
Destination: Telecom Center
The Telecom Center is a major hub on the information highway with several large satellite antennas on its observation deck. The observation deck also offers nice view of the bay area and as far as Mount Fuji on clear days.
Destination: Museum of Maritime Science
This museum looks like a large cruise ship docked along the Odaiba waterfront. The main building with exhibits on the history and technology of ships and shipping is currently closed for renovation. In the meantime, a mini museum has been set up with a portion of the museum collection on display. Outside you can board two real ships that are permanently docked next to the museum.
Destination: National Museum of Emerging Science
Also known as the Miraikan, this well done, highly interactive and bilingual science museum includes exhibits about environmental issues, robots (starring Asimo among others), information technology, biology and space exploration.
Destination: Oedo Onsen Monogatari
Opened in 2003, Oedo Onsen is a hot spring theme park which reproduces the atmosphere of the Edo Period. Here you can enjoy various types of indoor and outdoor baths which are fed by hot spring water pumped from a depth of 1400 meters. Restaurants, massage, games and other entertainment, as well as overnight stays are available.
Destination: Mori Tower
A 54-story skyscraper, named after the man and company that built it. The first six floors are occupied by shops and restaurants, while the top six floors house an art museum and observation deck. Offices fill the 43 floors in between. The Mori Tower is one of the tallest buildings in Tokyo and a characteristic feature of the city's skyline.
Destination: Tokyo City View
Located at the top of the Mori Tower, the Tokyo City View observation deck has high ceiling and glass walls that extend all the way around the building, giving visitors views of the entire city. Additionally, Sky Deck is an open-air rooftop deck that can be accessed when the weather permits.
Destination: Mori Art Museum
With a focus on art that is both contemporary and international, the Mori Art Museum presents innovative exhibitions of modern art. The museum makes a point of keeping the art easily accessible to the general viewing public, rather than making it overly obscure or esoteric.
Destination: Roppongi Hills Shopping and Dining
Roppongi Hills features more than 200 shops, cafes and restaurants. Most shops specialize in fashion, accessories, interior design and household goods, while restaurants offer a wide array of Japanese and international cuisine.
Destination: TV Asahi Headquarters
The headquarters of TV Asahi, one of Japan's private TV networks, is part of the Roppongi Hills complex. The spacious atrium is open to the public and features displays of current programs and a shop selling TV Asahi goods.
Destination: Mori Garden
A small oasis of greenery between the tall buildings of Roppongi Hills, the Mori Garden is built in the style of a traditional Japanese landscape garden. The garden has a number of cherry trees that make it a nice spot to enjoy the cherry blossom season in late March and early April.
Destination: Roppongi Hills
Opened in 2003, Roppongi Hills is a city within the city, providing residential space, offices and recreational facilities all within one building complex. Tourist attractions include shops, restaurants, a movie theater and the Mori Art Museum and Tokyo City View observation deck on the top floors of the 238 meter tall Mori Tower.
Destination: Tokyo Midtown
Another city within the city, Tokyo Midtown was opened in 2007 and offers similar residential, commercial and entertainment facilities as Roppongi Hills. The complex also has a museum, the Suntory Museum of Art, as well as stylish shops and restaurants. The top floors of the 248 meter Midtown Tower, the tallest building in Tokyo, make up the Ritz-Carlton Tokyo, one of the city's best hotels.
Destination: National Art Center Tokyo
Opened in early 2007, the National Art Center Tokyo (Kokuritsu Shin-Bijutsukan) is Japan's largest art museum. The museum maintains no permanent collection, but rather provides a venue for various, temporary exhibitions.
Destination: Roppongi Nightlife
Roppongi has been a popular nightlife district among foreigners for decades. Unlike other entertainment districts in Tokyo, it offers many restaurants, bars and clubs, which are easily accessible for foreigners or even cater specifically to the expat community.
Destination: World Bazaar
World Bazaar, located at the main entrance to the park, is a covered shopping arcade lined by shops and restaurants. The area is designed like an early 20th century American town and serves as the park's main shopping area where many guests stop on their way out of the park.
Destination: Tomorrowland
Tomorrowland explores the themes of outer space and future technologies. It is home to popular attractions such as Space Mountain, Star Tours and Buzz Lightyear's AstroBlasters.
Destination: Toontown
Toontown is a suburban toon neighborhood where the Disney characters live, work and play. Aimed at a younger audience, Toontown lets visitors meet Mickey at his house, play on Donald Duck's boat, check out Chip'n Dale's Treehouse and ride a kid sized rollercoaster.
Destination: Fantasyland
Fantasyland is based on the classic animated films by Disney and is home to the iconic Cinderella's Castle at the center of the park, as well as other characters and rides such as Peter Pan, Snow White, It's A Small World and Pooh's Hunny Hunt, an original Fantasyland attraction unique to Tokyo Disneyland.
Destination: Critter Country
Critter Country is home to Br'er Rabbit, Br'er Fox, Br'er Bear and the other characters from the Disney film "Song of the South". Here you can find the popular Splash Mountain log ride, as well as guided canoe tours on the Rivers of America.
Destination: Westernland
Westernland is themed after the US western frontier along the Rivers of America. The area is home to the popular rollercoaster Big Thunder Mountain, while Tom Sawyer Island is located out in the middle of the river.
Destination: Adventureland
Adventureland includes attractions that encompass the spirit of adventure. Here you can join a jungle cruise, explore the Swiss Family Treehouse, ride the Western River Railroad and sail with the Pirates of the Caribbean.
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Tokyo
Free day at leisure.
Optional Tour: Amazing Tokyo Full-Day Tour (Shared)
Experience Tokyo’s must-see landmarks on a full-day group tour that includes visits to the Imperial Palace, Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, and Tokyo Skytree, along with a relaxing cruise through Tokyo Bay under the Rainbow Bridge. Enjoy panoramic views as you drive past Harajuku, the National Diet Building, Akihabara, Marunouchi, Kanda, Ueno, Ame-yoko Market, and Kappa-bashi Shopping Arcade. The tour also features a traditional "Izakaya" Japanese pub lunch.
Inclusions: English-speaking guide, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, multilingual audio guidance, admission to Tokyo Skytree (350M), Tokyo Bay Cruise (or Fukagawa Edo Museum/Hamarikyu Gardens on Tuesdays), Matcha drink or gelato, and lunch (karaage set with soft drink if selected).
Please advise at booking if vegetarian or gluten-free meals are needed.
Start time is 8:00 AM, with check-in at 7:50 AM at the “LOVE” statue in Shinjuku or 7:20 AM at Matsuya Ginza (Exit A13). Duration: 10 hours.
Operates daily except March 3rd.
Shiba Park Hotel is a well-established 4-star hotel located in the heart of Tokyo’s Minato district, offering a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and traditional Japanese hospitality. Positioned near Tokyo Tower and within walking distance of Shiba Park, this hotel provides easy access to both cultural landmarks and modern city attractions. Its serene yet central setting makes it ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Haneda Airport is just a short drive away, adding to its accessibility for international guests.
Meals Included: Lunch included
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Hakone – Hike the Old Tokaido Road
This morning, make your own way to the railway station to take Japan’s world-famous Shinkansen to Odawara Station.
Your guide will meet you at Odawara Station and will be ready to show you a hidden part of Hakone National Park: the old Tokaido, the ancient street that connected Edo (Tokyo) to Kyoto.
Begin your Old Tokaido Highway hike at a traditional teahouse, Amazake Chaya, founded 400 years and where Emperors and Shoguns stopped just like you are doing today! Here, you will have the chance to drink rice tea and taste delicious mochi. If you are lucky, the owner will also sit with you and tell you stories about the Old Tokaido Highway. After refreshing yourself, continue hiking the Old Tokaido down to Lake Ashi, breathe in the fresh air while listening to your guide’s stories. You will have lunch by the lake, weather permitting, you might be able to spot the beautiful Mount Fuji! After this break, you will keep hiking along a cedar avenue. These cedars were planted in 1618 by order of the Shogun. Reach Hakone Checkpoint, this is a faithful re-creation of the old Checkpoint which will give you a sense of the life during the Shogun Period. Another short walk along the Tokaido, then catch your bus to Genbegawa World Water Heritage area in Mishima. Here you will stroll along the river until Mishima Station, where the tour will end at around 5pm.
Note: the tour may change according to weather conditions/depending on the accommodation in Hakone the tour may end in a different way.
Inclusion:
Shinkansen ticket from Tokyo to Odawara Station
Lunch
Entrance fees and transportation during the tour
Optional Service:
1. Meet & Greet - Tokyo Station Departure Service
Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu is a luxurious 4.5-star ryokan nestled in the scenic mountains of Hakone, Japan. Opened in April 2017, this serene retreat seamlessly blends traditional Japanese hospitality with modern comforts, offering guests an authentic and tranquil experience. Each of the 150 rooms features tatami flooring and a private open-air onsen bath, allowing guests to unwind while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding nature
Meals Included: Full Board
Hakone
Hakone holidays will take you to the home of renowned spas and a large historical zone. Situated in the south-western part of Kanagawa, and part of Fuji Hakone Izu National Park, holidays to Hakone offer much more than just a nice view of Mt. Fuji. For a start Hakone boasts many renowned hot springs that have about 20 different qualities earning them the nickname "Hakone Seventeen Spas."
Overview
Situated in the south-western part of Kanagawa, and part of Fuji Hakone Izu National Park, holidays to Hakone offer much more than just a nice view of Mt. Fuji. For a start Hakone boasts many renowned hot springs that have about 20 different qualities earning them the nickname "Hakone Seventeen Spas."
Destination: Holidays in Hakone offer more than just a view of Mt Fuji
Exciting attractions for visitors on holiday in Hakone include O-waku-dani, where volcanic fumes still bear a trace of the Hakone Volcano; Lake Ashi-no-ko created in the crater of the Hakone Volcano; Susuki-sogen , of Sengokuhara, translated as silver grass field and a stone Buddha and stone towers situated in Moto-Hakone. Transport options to the attractions include the mountain railway, a cable car, ropeway, and a cruising boat.
Destination: Hakone Tozan Railway
The Hakone Tozan Railway is an attraction in itself. The the train is unique in that it repeats switchbacks three times to go up the steep slope from Yumoto, the entrance of Hakone, to Gora. The train runs on the steepest slope (80/1000) among the railways in Japan. The mood of Hakone is characterized in the journey on the train as you look down into the valley of the Haya-kawa River, through the greenery. The streets of Hakone, with their exotic and somewhat retro atmosphere, are a principle reason for those that choose holidays in Hakone.
Destination: Mount Fuji
At 3776 meters, Mount Fuji is Japan's highest mountain. The nearly perfectly shaped volcano has been worshiped as a sacred mountain and accordingly a holiday to Mount Fuji is, for some, a pilgrimage as well as a vacation. Mount Fuji is an active volcano, which most recently erupted in 1708. It stands on the border between Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures and can be seen from Tokyo and Yokohama on clear days.
An easy way to view Mount Fuji is from the train on a trip between Tokyo and Osaka. If you take the shinkansen from Tokyo in direction of Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka, the best view of the mountain can be enjoyed from around Shin-Fuji Station on the right hand side of the train, about 40-45 minutes into the journey.
Do however bear in mind that clouds and poor visibility often block the view of Mount Fuji, and you have to consider yourself lucky if you get a clear view of the mountain. Visibility tends to be better during the colder seasons of the year.
If you want to enjoy Mount Fuji at a more leisurely pace and from a nice natural surrounding, you should head to the Fuji Five Lake (Fujigoko) region at the northern foot of the mountain, or to Hakone, a nearby hot spring resort.
Destination: Best Time to go to Mount Fuji for the Weather
Because Japan is a country which has four seasons, the visitors can get a good view of Mount Fuji that changes every time. A combination of the peak and cherry blossoms can be seen during the spring and one can enjoy climbing the mountain without snow.
Red and orange leaves can be seen on and around the mountain in autumn creating beautiful picturesque scenery. Last but not the least, the snow will be seen covering the whole mountain during the winter, which reveals the most famous views or pictures of Mount Fuji.
Apart from the summer months, temperatures at the peak are usually below freezing with the average temperatures falling around 19°F (-7°C ). Although the summer months are warmer it can still be rather cold and even get freezing temperatures.
Destination: When to go to Mount Fuji for tourist related activities
Other than enjoying a climb to Mount Fuji in Japan, tourists can also spend some time to learn more about the people and the culture of the country by taking part or just observing one of its most celebrated events. Here are a couple of the most observed events:
Shogatsu – One of the biggest festivals in Japan, Shogatsu is celebrated by eating soba noodles as the clock strikes 12:00 midnight and families reunite, play games, exchange gifts and eat specially prepared foods.
Hanami (Cherry Blossom Festival) – The term actually means’ viewing of flowers’ and that’s what the Japanese men and women do during the festival. Friends and family gather for parties and picnics day and night beneath blooming cherry blossoms for revelry and fun. This by the way happens between March and May depending on the blossoming of flowers and this is a nationwide celebration.
There are travelers who visit Japan specifically for the blossoming trees and the serenity they provide. Visiting during this time of years also provides visitors with a window into some of the traditional Japanese culture.
Destination: Hakone Jinja Shrine History
In 506 AD, Jozen Shonin opened the site of Hakone Jinja Shrine as a location to worship Mt Komagatake. In 757, Priest Mangan established the Kanto Sochinju Hakone Daigongen (shrine), which was later renamed Hakone Jinja (Hakone Shrine). When Shogun Yoritomo Minamoto lost the battle at Ishibashi Mountain in 12th century, he was saved by the priest of Hakone Jinja Shrine. Since then, the shrine attracted many samurai in Kanto area. Hakone Jinja Shrine was burned down during the attack by Hideyoshi Toyotomi in 16th century, it was rebuilt by Ieyasu Tokugawa in the same century.
Destination: The Picasso Collection
The Hakone Open Air Museum has a collection of over 300 works by Picasso on rotating display. This Picasso collection includes a large assortment of pottery, variety of paintings, prints, sculptures, along with gold and silver items.
Within the Picasso Pavilion a large number of portraits of Picasso taken by David Douglas Duncan over the last 17 years of the Picasso's life.
Destination: The Henry Moore Collection
The Hakone Open-Air Museum has one of the world's largest collections of works by the English master sculptor Henry Moore (1898-1986). There is a rotating exhibition of the twenty-six pieces in the collection.
Hakone Open Air Museum also features a variety of restaurants and shops to provide a complete a relaxing day out.
Destination: Lake Ashi & Mount Fuji Tours
There are a range of organised tours from Tokyo to Hakone and Mount Fuji. This is the easiest and most time efficient way to combine these two attractions.
Destination: Getting There
Odakyu Railway operates between Tokyo's Shinjuku Station and Hakone-Yumoto Station. The one way journey by the "Romance Car" limited express takes about 85 minutes and costs 2080 yen. By slower express trains (kyuko), the journey takes about two hours, requires one transfer at Odawara Station, but costs only 1190 yen.
Direct highway buses operate every 30 minutes between Tokyo's Shinjuku Station and the Lake Ashi area in Hakone (among other places the buses stop at Togendai and the Hakone Prince Hotel). The one way journey costs about 2000 yen and under good traffic conditions takes about two hours.
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Description
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Free Day in Hakone
Today is free to enjoy at your own leisure. Take your time to explore all the iconic spots in Hakone or soak in the onsen, Japanese hot spring.
Optional Tour:
Hakone National Park Full Day Tour
This morning you will be met at your accommodation in Hakone by your guide for the day to explore Hakone National Park for a day of fresh air and sightseeing at one of Japan’s most iconic parks in the shadow of Mt. Fuji. Throughout the tour you will have a chance to take a glimpse at this awe-inspiring mountain, but please bear in mind that it needs to be a clear day. Transfer to Hakone Machi-ko where you’ll board a pirate ship and sail across Lake Ashi to Togendai. A crater formed by a volcano nearly three-thousand years ago, these charming waters offer beautiful views of the enveloping mountains and even Mt. Fuji on a clear day. Now, ride in a cable car to the Hakone Ropeway, soar above the active volcanic site, Owakudani, which translates to the Great Boiling Valley. Watch the steam rising from the mountain, as thermal water grazes just under the rocky façade at extraordinarily hot temperatures. Stop amongst the steamy rocks, and see if you can spot Mt. Fuji in the distance before trying kuro-tamago, or a black egg. Boiled in the sulfuric hot springs each egg turns black as its cooked; it’s rumored that eating it will add several years to your life. Finally, take Cable car to Gora Station near the Hakone Open Air Museum.
Included in today's tour is entrance to the Hakone Open Air Museum, one of the must see places in Hakone. Please note that there there may be quite a bit of walking today, so please wear comfortable walking shoes.
Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu is a luxurious 4.5-star ryokan nestled in the scenic mountains of Hakone, Japan. Opened in April 2017, this serene retreat seamlessly blends traditional Japanese hospitality with modern comforts, offering guests an authentic and tranquil experience. Each of the 150 rooms features tatami flooring and a private open-air onsen bath, allowing guests to unwind while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding nature
Meals Included: Half Board
Hakone
Hakone holidays will take you to the home of renowned spas and a large historical zone. Situated in the south-western part of Kanagawa, and part of Fuji Hakone Izu National Park, holidays to Hakone offer much more than just a nice view of Mt. Fuji. For a start Hakone boasts many renowned hot springs that have about 20 different qualities earning them the nickname "Hakone Seventeen Spas."
Overview
Situated in the south-western part of Kanagawa, and part of Fuji Hakone Izu National Park, holidays to Hakone offer much more than just a nice view of Mt. Fuji. For a start Hakone boasts many renowned hot springs that have about 20 different qualities earning them the nickname "Hakone Seventeen Spas."
Destination: Holidays in Hakone offer more than just a view of Mt Fuji
Exciting attractions for visitors on holiday in Hakone include O-waku-dani, where volcanic fumes still bear a trace of the Hakone Volcano; Lake Ashi-no-ko created in the crater of the Hakone Volcano; Susuki-sogen , of Sengokuhara, translated as silver grass field and a stone Buddha and stone towers situated in Moto-Hakone. Transport options to the attractions include the mountain railway, a cable car, ropeway, and a cruising boat.
Destination: Hakone Tozan Railway
The Hakone Tozan Railway is an attraction in itself. The the train is unique in that it repeats switchbacks three times to go up the steep slope from Yumoto, the entrance of Hakone, to Gora. The train runs on the steepest slope (80/1000) among the railways in Japan. The mood of Hakone is characterized in the journey on the train as you look down into the valley of the Haya-kawa River, through the greenery. The streets of Hakone, with their exotic and somewhat retro atmosphere, are a principle reason for those that choose holidays in Hakone.
Destination: Mount Fuji
At 3776 meters, Mount Fuji is Japan's highest mountain. The nearly perfectly shaped volcano has been worshiped as a sacred mountain and accordingly a holiday to Mount Fuji is, for some, a pilgrimage as well as a vacation. Mount Fuji is an active volcano, which most recently erupted in 1708. It stands on the border between Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures and can be seen from Tokyo and Yokohama on clear days.
An easy way to view Mount Fuji is from the train on a trip between Tokyo and Osaka. If you take the shinkansen from Tokyo in direction of Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka, the best view of the mountain can be enjoyed from around Shin-Fuji Station on the right hand side of the train, about 40-45 minutes into the journey.
Do however bear in mind that clouds and poor visibility often block the view of Mount Fuji, and you have to consider yourself lucky if you get a clear view of the mountain. Visibility tends to be better during the colder seasons of the year.
If you want to enjoy Mount Fuji at a more leisurely pace and from a nice natural surrounding, you should head to the Fuji Five Lake (Fujigoko) region at the northern foot of the mountain, or to Hakone, a nearby hot spring resort.
Destination: Best Time to go to Mount Fuji for the Weather
Because Japan is a country which has four seasons, the visitors can get a good view of Mount Fuji that changes every time. A combination of the peak and cherry blossoms can be seen during the spring and one can enjoy climbing the mountain without snow.
Red and orange leaves can be seen on and around the mountain in autumn creating beautiful picturesque scenery. Last but not the least, the snow will be seen covering the whole mountain during the winter, which reveals the most famous views or pictures of Mount Fuji.
Apart from the summer months, temperatures at the peak are usually below freezing with the average temperatures falling around 19°F (-7°C ). Although the summer months are warmer it can still be rather cold and even get freezing temperatures.
Destination: When to go to Mount Fuji for tourist related activities
Other than enjoying a climb to Mount Fuji in Japan, tourists can also spend some time to learn more about the people and the culture of the country by taking part or just observing one of its most celebrated events. Here are a couple of the most observed events:
Shogatsu – One of the biggest festivals in Japan, Shogatsu is celebrated by eating soba noodles as the clock strikes 12:00 midnight and families reunite, play games, exchange gifts and eat specially prepared foods.
Hanami (Cherry Blossom Festival) – The term actually means’ viewing of flowers’ and that’s what the Japanese men and women do during the festival. Friends and family gather for parties and picnics day and night beneath blooming cherry blossoms for revelry and fun. This by the way happens between March and May depending on the blossoming of flowers and this is a nationwide celebration.
There are travelers who visit Japan specifically for the blossoming trees and the serenity they provide. Visiting during this time of years also provides visitors with a window into some of the traditional Japanese culture.
Destination: Hakone Jinja Shrine History
In 506 AD, Jozen Shonin opened the site of Hakone Jinja Shrine as a location to worship Mt Komagatake. In 757, Priest Mangan established the Kanto Sochinju Hakone Daigongen (shrine), which was later renamed Hakone Jinja (Hakone Shrine). When Shogun Yoritomo Minamoto lost the battle at Ishibashi Mountain in 12th century, he was saved by the priest of Hakone Jinja Shrine. Since then, the shrine attracted many samurai in Kanto area. Hakone Jinja Shrine was burned down during the attack by Hideyoshi Toyotomi in 16th century, it was rebuilt by Ieyasu Tokugawa in the same century.
Destination: The Picasso Collection
The Hakone Open Air Museum has a collection of over 300 works by Picasso on rotating display. This Picasso collection includes a large assortment of pottery, variety of paintings, prints, sculptures, along with gold and silver items.
Within the Picasso Pavilion a large number of portraits of Picasso taken by David Douglas Duncan over the last 17 years of the Picasso's life.
Destination: The Henry Moore Collection
The Hakone Open-Air Museum has one of the world's largest collections of works by the English master sculptor Henry Moore (1898-1986). There is a rotating exhibition of the twenty-six pieces in the collection.
Hakone Open Air Museum also features a variety of restaurants and shops to provide a complete a relaxing day out.
Destination: Lake Ashi & Mount Fuji Tours
There are a range of organised tours from Tokyo to Hakone and Mount Fuji. This is the easiest and most time efficient way to combine these two attractions.
Destination: Getting There
Odakyu Railway operates between Tokyo's Shinjuku Station and Hakone-Yumoto Station. The one way journey by the "Romance Car" limited express takes about 85 minutes and costs 2080 yen. By slower express trains (kyuko), the journey takes about two hours, requires one transfer at Odawara Station, but costs only 1190 yen.
Direct highway buses operate every 30 minutes between Tokyo's Shinjuku Station and the Lake Ashi area in Hakone (among other places the buses stop at Togendai and the Hakone Prince Hotel). The one way journey costs about 2000 yen and under good traffic conditions takes about two hours.
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Description
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Transfer to Kyoto, Backstreet Geisha Tour
This morning, make your own way from your hotel to Odawara train station to travel to Kyoto. Take the Shinkansen from Odawara Station at 10:07am, after a little bit more than 2h you will arrive to Kyoto. At around 12:13. Check in at the hotel and meet your guide at the hotel lobby at 2pm.
Embark on a journey through Kyoto's rich heritage, starting in Miyagawa-cho, one of its vibrant geisha districts. Meander along Hanamikoji Street in the Gion district, catching the scent of traditional eateries and tea rooms. Keep an eye out for Geishas or Maikos, adding an air of mystique to the stroll. Explore Kennin-ji Temple, Kyoto's oldest Zen temple, renowned for its serene rock garden and the iconic 'Fujin-Raijin-zu' artwork. Conclude your Gion tour at Yasaka Shrine, steeped in over 1350 years of history, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.
The evening is to enjoy as you wish.
Inclusion
Shinkansen from Odawara to Kyoto Station.
Tour Inclusion
• Private English-speaking guide for 4 hours • Public transportation
Duration: 4h
Start time: 2pm
Optional service:
1. Meet & Greet - Hakone Yumoto Station Departure Service
2. Meet & Greet- Kyoto Station Transfer assistant support(2hrs)
Noku Kyoto is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Kyoto, Japan, offering a harmonious blend of modern comfort and traditional Japanese aesthetics. Situated adjacent to the Kyoto Imperial Palace and just a minute's walk from Marutamachi Subway Station, it provides guests with convenient access to the city's historical sites and cultural landmarks .
Meals Included: Breakfast
Kyoto
Kyoto holidays take you to the cultural and historical heart of the country. Unlike Tokoyo, a holiday to Kyoto is synonymous with ancient temples, tea ceremony masters, traditional ryokan inns and centuries-old craftsmanship. Over the centuries, Kyoto has been hit by wars and fires. Fortunately, as the imperial capital for more than 1,000 years, the historic value of the city spared it from the list of target cities for the atomic bomb and spared from air raids during World War II.
Overview
Unlike Tokoyo, a holiday to Kyoto is synonymous with ancient temples, tea ceremony masters, traditional ryokan inns and centuries-old craftsmanship. Over the centuries, Kyoto has been hit by wars and fires. Fortunately, as the imperial capital for more than 1,000 years, the historic value of the city spared it from the list of target cities for the atomic bomb and spared from air raids during World War II. As a result, you will be able to see the countless temples, shrines and other historically priceless structures that survived during your Kyoto holiday.
Destination: Kyoto is the capital of authentic Japanese Culture
You are not considered a true Kyotoite unless you can trace your lineage back to the city for a minimum of 4 generations. It quickly becomes apparent during holidays in Kyoto that whilst the rest of Japan has abandoned many cultural practices in favour of a 21st century lifestyle, residents of Kyoto fiercely protect their culture and way of life. This is evident in everything from good table manners to family pedigree. The symbolic and refined mind-set of Kyoto residents, insists that everything that happens in the city is of the highest standard. From products and services to cuisine and hospitality- the people of Kyoto take pride in ensuring anyone who takes a holiday in Kyoto leaves with the most wonderful memories.
Destination: Making the most of your time in Kyoto
A meditative stroll along the Philosopher’s Path (Tetsugaku no michi) which runs for 1.2 miles alongside a canal lined with cherry and maple trees will place you on the path of the city’s most famous old thinkers. The shrines and temples just off the main path are well worth exploring. The Gion district is geisha central, although holidays to Kyoto don’t always result in visitors meeting one. The narrow cobbled lanes are lined with surprisingly well-preserved wooden buildings, many of which are discreet tea-houses or high-end ryotei restaurants. It is often reported that there are over 1000 Buddhist temples in Kyoto. The spectacular architecture surrounded by some of the most breath-taking zen gardens in the world make the temples of Kyoto a highlight of any holiday in Kyoto. If you get fed up of the temples the Kyoto International Manga Museum is offers a crash course in everything related to the Japanese comics, including the world’s largest manga collection.
Destination: Isetan Department Store
JR Kyoto Isetan department store occupies 10 stories in the western portion of the station building. Goods on sale include clothing, accessories, fresh food, local souvenirs, stationery and more. Isetan also has a small art museum on its 7th floor as well as a range of restaurants on the 11th floor.
Destination: Porta Underground Shopping Mall
Kyoto Station extends underground into the Porta shopping mall. The mall is located under the bus terminal and plaza on the Karasuma side of the station and offers roughly 100 shops and restaurants, as well as access to the Karasuma Subway Line.
Destination: The Cube Shopping Mall
The Cube is a shopping mall in the basement of the Kyoto Station building. It offers a lot of local souvenirs, such as sweets and pickles on the first basement floor, and fashion and accessories on the second basement floor. Some of the restaurants on the building's 11th floor are also considered part of The Cube.
Destination: Observation Deck
Reached via a long series of escalators and a final flight of stairs, an open air observation deck is located on the top floor of the station building. Unfortunately, the views from the deck are not very attractive, because they are only possible through heavily toned windows.
Destination: Skyway
The Skyway tunnel allows visitors to walk the length of Kyoto Station, 45 meters above the central hall. The Skyway's glass windows provide views of the city and station below. It starts from the restaurant floor on the 11th floor of the station building.
Destination: Kiyomizudera Temple (more details)
Kiyomizudera is one of Japan's most popular temples. It stands in the wooded hills of eastern Kyoto and offers visitors a nice view over the city from its famous wooden terrace. The busy approach to the temple is lined by dozens of shops and restaurants that have been catering to pilgrims and tourists for centuries.
Destination: Kodaiji Temple (more details)
Kodaiji Temple was constructed in 1605 in memory of Toyotomi Hideyoshi by the great political leader's wife. It features temple halls, gravel and landscape gardens, teahouses and a bamboo grove.
Destination: Yasaka Pagoda
Yasaka Pagoda, the last remnant of Hokanji Temple, is one of the most visible and recognizable landmarks in the Higashiyama District. Visitors may climb up the inside of the five story pagoda, which is a rare opportunity as most pagoda can only be viewed from the outside.
Destination: Yasaka Shrine (more details)
Yasaka Shrine, host to the Gion Matsuri, is one of Kyoto's most popular shrines and is located at the eastern end of Shijo-dori next to Maruyama Park. The shrine's hanging lanterns are lit every night after dark.
Destination: Maruyama Park (more details)
Maruyama Park is a public park next to Yasaka Shrine. During the first half of April, when the cherry trees are in full bloom, Maruyama Park becomes Kyoto's most popular and most crowded spot for cherry blossom viewing.
Destination: Jingoji Temple
Jingoji Temple is the most visited among Takao's temples. A long set of stone stairs make for an impressive and tiring approach. The temple grounds feature a large entrance gate and multiple halls, as well as a path to an observation point with views over the valley. Small clay discs with inscriptions can be purchased there to be thrown into the valley for good luck.
Destination: Saimyoji Temple
Saimyoji Temple was originally built as a detached temple of Jingoji. It is not as big or impressive as Jingoji, but still interesting. The vermilion covered Shigetsukyo Bridge, which leads over a river to the temple entrance, is a particularly well known sight.
Destination: Sanzenin Temple
Sanzenin Temple is the main attraction of Ohara, around which most of the town's tourist activity is centered. The temple has a number of temple buildings, gardens, and walking paths to explore. There is a highly valued statue of the Amida Buddha on display that dates back to the 900s.
Destination: Jakkoin Temple
Jakkoin was founded around the year 600. A long flight of stairs leads up to the temple gate, which is particularly attractive during the autumn. Unfortunately, the main hall burnt down in 2000, but it has since been rebuilt and holds a statue of the Buddhist deity Jizo. Jakkoin is noted for having served as the nunnery of a former empress.
Destination: Hosenin Temple
Hosenin is a small temple with attractive gardens, the most impressive of which has a large, carefully pruned 700 year old pine tree. Visitors can admire the tree from a tatami room while being served tea. There is also a strolling garden with large stones and a maple tree that is impressive during the fall.
Destination: Shorinin Temple
The temple was founded in 1013, and served as a location of practicing the Shomyo style of Buddhist chanting that was imported from China. The present main hall was built during the mid-Edo Period (1603-1867), and holds the temple's main object of worship, a statue of the Amida Buddha.
Destination: Jikkoin Temple
Located just across from Sanzenin, Jikkoin is another temple that has an attractive garden and includes tea as part of its admission. Jikkoin's garden is a typical Japanese garden, with a pond, shrubs and variety of flowering plants. There are small walking paths, but the garden is best enjoyed from the temple building while seated on tatami.
Destination: Raigoin Temple
Raigoin is located quite deep within the forest. The distance from the shops and large crowds gives the temple an especially tranquil atmosphere. The temple was founded in the mid 9th century, its main hall and bell tower date back to the Muromachi Period (1333-1573) and a small stone pagoda was built in the Kamakura Period (1192-1333).
Destination: Otonashi no Taki
About a 10 minute walk from Sanzenin, Otonashi no Taki is an attractive waterfall located in the forest behind Ohara. Signs along walking paths clearly mark the way, so visitors don't need to worry about getting lost. The waterfall itself is like a stream that quietly trickles down the rocks. Otonashi is Japanese for "waterfall without sound", and according to legend the sound of the waterfall is gone because it fused with the sound of the nearby monks chanting.
Destination: Togetsukyo Bridge
The Togetsukyo Bridge (lit. "Moon Crossing Bridge") is Arashiyama's most iconic landmark. It was originally built during the Heian Period (794-1185) and most recently reconstructed in the 1930s. The bridge looks particularly attractive in combination with the forested mountainside in the background. A riverside park with dozens of cherry trees is located just adjacent to the bridge.
Destination: Bamboo Groves
The walking paths that cut through the bamboo groves make for a nice walk or bicycle ride. The groves are particularly attractive when there is a light wind and the tall bamboo stalks sway gently back and forth. The bamboo has been used to manufacture various products, such as baskets, cups, boxes and mats at local workshops for centuries.
Destination: Okochi Sanso Villa
This is the former villa of the popular actor Okochi Denjiro (1896-1962), located in the back of Arashiyama's bamboo groves. Okochi Sanso consists of several different gardens and buildings, including living quarters, tea houses and gates. The buildings can only be viewed from the outside. Admission includes matcha green tea with a snack.
Destination: Monkey Park Iwatayama
Located in the Arashiyama mountains, the entrance to the monkey park can be found just south of the Togetsukyo Bridge. After hiking uphill for about ten minutes, visitors will find an open area with over a hundred monkeys roaming freely. There are also nice views down onto the city.
Destination: Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street
Much of this street along the way to the Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple has been preserved in the style of the Meiji Period (1868-1912). Many of the buildings are traditional machiya ("town houses") that served as private residences but have since been converted into shops and restaurants.
Destination: Rakushisha Residence
The Rakushisha Residence is a thatched hut that belonged to the 17th century haiku poet Mukai Kyorai. Mukai was a student of Basho Matsuo, one of Japan's greatest poets. Basho even composed a few poems here. Mukai named his residence Rakushisha ("fallen persimmon hut") after a storm had taken down the fruits of the surrounding trees.
Destination: Tenryuji Temple (more details)
Ranked among Kyoto's five great Zen temples, Tenryuji is the largest and most impressive temple in Arashiyama. Founded in 1339 at the beginning of the Muromachi Period (1338-1573), the temple is one of Kyoto's many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In addition to its temple buildings, there are attractive gardens with walking paths.
Destination: Daikakuji Temple (more details)
Daikakuji is a temple of the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism. Formerly the residence of an emperor, the buildings were converted into a temple in 876. During its history the temple traditionally had members of the imperial family serve as the head priest. Beside the main temple buildings there is a large pond and a pagoda.
Destination: Jojakkoji Temple
This mountainside temple was founded in 1596. With small, attractive buildings and gates, the temple has a quiet and understated atmosphere. Maple trees and moss are located just beside the paths and stairs that lead across the temple grounds. From a number of spots, visitors can enjoy views over Kyoto. The main hall is currently being renovated through summer 2016, but a visit is still worthwhile.
Destination: Nisonin Temple
Similar to Jojakkoji, Nisonin Temple is a hillside temple with slightly larger and imposing buildings. A generally understated atmosphere on the temple grounds is partly due to the overhanging trees along approach. Founded in the mid 9th century, Nisonin is a temple of the Tendai sect. There are views over the city from the upper grounds.
Destination: Gioji Temple
Gioji is even more nestled into the forest than Jojakkoji and Nisonin. It is known for its moss garden that is punctuated with tall maple trees. The temple's entrance gate and small main hall have thatched roofs. The latter has an attractive round window looking into the gardens.
Destination: Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple
Adashino Nenbutsuji is located at the end of the Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street. The temple was founded in the early 9th century when the famous monk Kobo Daishi placed stone statues for the souls of the dead here. Today, the temple grounds are covered by hundreds of such stone statues. In the back of the temple, a short path leads through a bamboo forest.
Destination: Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple
Another ten minute walk north of the similarly named Adashino Nenbutsuji, the Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple is famous for its 1200 stone statues of rakan, devoted followers of Buddhism, each with a different facial expression. Created relatively recently in the 1980s and early 1990s, the many statues stand across the temple grounds which cover part of a forested mountain slope.
Destination: Getting There
Kyoto does not have its own airport, but rather is served by Osaka's two airports. There is an excellent road and railway network between the two cities. Overseas travellers can fly into Kansai International Airport and then get a train to Kyoto. Kansai Airport Station is located opposite the arrival lobby where the Japanese Rail (JR) West Haruka Kansai Airport Limited Express Train can be caught.
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Kyoto – Kyoto Perfect Tour Shared
Discover Kyoto's must-see landmarks and World Heritages with our coach tour in only one day! First adventure starts from Kiyomizu-dera temple, enjoying the wealthy nature from the significant terrace. Then say Konnichiwa to one thousand and one Kannon statue at SanjuSan-Gen-Do temple, then the coach will take you to the most iconic place, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Going under thousands of Torii Red gate tunnels will be a memorable experience. Don’t forget to explore green tunnels, Sagano Bamboo Forest and Kinkaku-ji Temple.
Tour includes Japanese buffet style lunch.
Start time: 8am
Duration: 9h
Meeting point: Tully's Coffee in Kyoto Avanti near Kyoto station
CHECK-IN TIME: 7:50 am
Days of operation: Tour Operation:
Daily Except: Feb 3rd/ May 3rd/ Nov 10th/ Dec 22
Inclusions: A Professional English-Speaking Tour Guide, Air-conditioned vehicle, Wi-Fi service available on the bus, Multilingual Audio Guidance, Admission for Kiyomizudera Temple, Admission for Tenryu-jiTemple, Admission for Kinkakuji Temple, buffet lunch.
Noku Kyoto is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Kyoto, Japan, offering a harmonious blend of modern comfort and traditional Japanese aesthetics. Situated adjacent to the Kyoto Imperial Palace and just a minute's walk from Marutamachi Subway Station, it provides guests with convenient access to the city's historical sites and cultural landmarks .
Meals Included: Half Board
Kyoto
Kyoto holidays take you to the cultural and historical heart of the country. Unlike Tokoyo, a holiday to Kyoto is synonymous with ancient temples, tea ceremony masters, traditional ryokan inns and centuries-old craftsmanship. Over the centuries, Kyoto has been hit by wars and fires. Fortunately, as the imperial capital for more than 1,000 years, the historic value of the city spared it from the list of target cities for the atomic bomb and spared from air raids during World War II.
Overview
Unlike Tokoyo, a holiday to Kyoto is synonymous with ancient temples, tea ceremony masters, traditional ryokan inns and centuries-old craftsmanship. Over the centuries, Kyoto has been hit by wars and fires. Fortunately, as the imperial capital for more than 1,000 years, the historic value of the city spared it from the list of target cities for the atomic bomb and spared from air raids during World War II. As a result, you will be able to see the countless temples, shrines and other historically priceless structures that survived during your Kyoto holiday.
Destination: Kyoto is the capital of authentic Japanese Culture
You are not considered a true Kyotoite unless you can trace your lineage back to the city for a minimum of 4 generations. It quickly becomes apparent during holidays in Kyoto that whilst the rest of Japan has abandoned many cultural practices in favour of a 21st century lifestyle, residents of Kyoto fiercely protect their culture and way of life. This is evident in everything from good table manners to family pedigree. The symbolic and refined mind-set of Kyoto residents, insists that everything that happens in the city is of the highest standard. From products and services to cuisine and hospitality- the people of Kyoto take pride in ensuring anyone who takes a holiday in Kyoto leaves with the most wonderful memories.
Destination: Making the most of your time in Kyoto
A meditative stroll along the Philosopher’s Path (Tetsugaku no michi) which runs for 1.2 miles alongside a canal lined with cherry and maple trees will place you on the path of the city’s most famous old thinkers. The shrines and temples just off the main path are well worth exploring. The Gion district is geisha central, although holidays to Kyoto don’t always result in visitors meeting one. The narrow cobbled lanes are lined with surprisingly well-preserved wooden buildings, many of which are discreet tea-houses or high-end ryotei restaurants. It is often reported that there are over 1000 Buddhist temples in Kyoto. The spectacular architecture surrounded by some of the most breath-taking zen gardens in the world make the temples of Kyoto a highlight of any holiday in Kyoto. If you get fed up of the temples the Kyoto International Manga Museum is offers a crash course in everything related to the Japanese comics, including the world’s largest manga collection.
Destination: Isetan Department Store
JR Kyoto Isetan department store occupies 10 stories in the western portion of the station building. Goods on sale include clothing, accessories, fresh food, local souvenirs, stationery and more. Isetan also has a small art museum on its 7th floor as well as a range of restaurants on the 11th floor.
Destination: Porta Underground Shopping Mall
Kyoto Station extends underground into the Porta shopping mall. The mall is located under the bus terminal and plaza on the Karasuma side of the station and offers roughly 100 shops and restaurants, as well as access to the Karasuma Subway Line.
Destination: The Cube Shopping Mall
The Cube is a shopping mall in the basement of the Kyoto Station building. It offers a lot of local souvenirs, such as sweets and pickles on the first basement floor, and fashion and accessories on the second basement floor. Some of the restaurants on the building's 11th floor are also considered part of The Cube.
Destination: Observation Deck
Reached via a long series of escalators and a final flight of stairs, an open air observation deck is located on the top floor of the station building. Unfortunately, the views from the deck are not very attractive, because they are only possible through heavily toned windows.
Destination: Skyway
The Skyway tunnel allows visitors to walk the length of Kyoto Station, 45 meters above the central hall. The Skyway's glass windows provide views of the city and station below. It starts from the restaurant floor on the 11th floor of the station building.
Destination: Kiyomizudera Temple (more details)
Kiyomizudera is one of Japan's most popular temples. It stands in the wooded hills of eastern Kyoto and offers visitors a nice view over the city from its famous wooden terrace. The busy approach to the temple is lined by dozens of shops and restaurants that have been catering to pilgrims and tourists for centuries.
Destination: Kodaiji Temple (more details)
Kodaiji Temple was constructed in 1605 in memory of Toyotomi Hideyoshi by the great political leader's wife. It features temple halls, gravel and landscape gardens, teahouses and a bamboo grove.
Destination: Yasaka Pagoda
Yasaka Pagoda, the last remnant of Hokanji Temple, is one of the most visible and recognizable landmarks in the Higashiyama District. Visitors may climb up the inside of the five story pagoda, which is a rare opportunity as most pagoda can only be viewed from the outside.
Destination: Yasaka Shrine (more details)
Yasaka Shrine, host to the Gion Matsuri, is one of Kyoto's most popular shrines and is located at the eastern end of Shijo-dori next to Maruyama Park. The shrine's hanging lanterns are lit every night after dark.
Destination: Maruyama Park (more details)
Maruyama Park is a public park next to Yasaka Shrine. During the first half of April, when the cherry trees are in full bloom, Maruyama Park becomes Kyoto's most popular and most crowded spot for cherry blossom viewing.
Destination: Jingoji Temple
Jingoji Temple is the most visited among Takao's temples. A long set of stone stairs make for an impressive and tiring approach. The temple grounds feature a large entrance gate and multiple halls, as well as a path to an observation point with views over the valley. Small clay discs with inscriptions can be purchased there to be thrown into the valley for good luck.
Destination: Saimyoji Temple
Saimyoji Temple was originally built as a detached temple of Jingoji. It is not as big or impressive as Jingoji, but still interesting. The vermilion covered Shigetsukyo Bridge, which leads over a river to the temple entrance, is a particularly well known sight.
Destination: Sanzenin Temple
Sanzenin Temple is the main attraction of Ohara, around which most of the town's tourist activity is centered. The temple has a number of temple buildings, gardens, and walking paths to explore. There is a highly valued statue of the Amida Buddha on display that dates back to the 900s.
Destination: Jakkoin Temple
Jakkoin was founded around the year 600. A long flight of stairs leads up to the temple gate, which is particularly attractive during the autumn. Unfortunately, the main hall burnt down in 2000, but it has since been rebuilt and holds a statue of the Buddhist deity Jizo. Jakkoin is noted for having served as the nunnery of a former empress.
Destination: Hosenin Temple
Hosenin is a small temple with attractive gardens, the most impressive of which has a large, carefully pruned 700 year old pine tree. Visitors can admire the tree from a tatami room while being served tea. There is also a strolling garden with large stones and a maple tree that is impressive during the fall.
Destination: Shorinin Temple
The temple was founded in 1013, and served as a location of practicing the Shomyo style of Buddhist chanting that was imported from China. The present main hall was built during the mid-Edo Period (1603-1867), and holds the temple's main object of worship, a statue of the Amida Buddha.
Destination: Jikkoin Temple
Located just across from Sanzenin, Jikkoin is another temple that has an attractive garden and includes tea as part of its admission. Jikkoin's garden is a typical Japanese garden, with a pond, shrubs and variety of flowering plants. There are small walking paths, but the garden is best enjoyed from the temple building while seated on tatami.
Destination: Raigoin Temple
Raigoin is located quite deep within the forest. The distance from the shops and large crowds gives the temple an especially tranquil atmosphere. The temple was founded in the mid 9th century, its main hall and bell tower date back to the Muromachi Period (1333-1573) and a small stone pagoda was built in the Kamakura Period (1192-1333).
Destination: Otonashi no Taki
About a 10 minute walk from Sanzenin, Otonashi no Taki is an attractive waterfall located in the forest behind Ohara. Signs along walking paths clearly mark the way, so visitors don't need to worry about getting lost. The waterfall itself is like a stream that quietly trickles down the rocks. Otonashi is Japanese for "waterfall without sound", and according to legend the sound of the waterfall is gone because it fused with the sound of the nearby monks chanting.
Destination: Togetsukyo Bridge
The Togetsukyo Bridge (lit. "Moon Crossing Bridge") is Arashiyama's most iconic landmark. It was originally built during the Heian Period (794-1185) and most recently reconstructed in the 1930s. The bridge looks particularly attractive in combination with the forested mountainside in the background. A riverside park with dozens of cherry trees is located just adjacent to the bridge.
Destination: Bamboo Groves
The walking paths that cut through the bamboo groves make for a nice walk or bicycle ride. The groves are particularly attractive when there is a light wind and the tall bamboo stalks sway gently back and forth. The bamboo has been used to manufacture various products, such as baskets, cups, boxes and mats at local workshops for centuries.
Destination: Okochi Sanso Villa
This is the former villa of the popular actor Okochi Denjiro (1896-1962), located in the back of Arashiyama's bamboo groves. Okochi Sanso consists of several different gardens and buildings, including living quarters, tea houses and gates. The buildings can only be viewed from the outside. Admission includes matcha green tea with a snack.
Destination: Monkey Park Iwatayama
Located in the Arashiyama mountains, the entrance to the monkey park can be found just south of the Togetsukyo Bridge. After hiking uphill for about ten minutes, visitors will find an open area with over a hundred monkeys roaming freely. There are also nice views down onto the city.
Destination: Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street
Much of this street along the way to the Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple has been preserved in the style of the Meiji Period (1868-1912). Many of the buildings are traditional machiya ("town houses") that served as private residences but have since been converted into shops and restaurants.
Destination: Rakushisha Residence
The Rakushisha Residence is a thatched hut that belonged to the 17th century haiku poet Mukai Kyorai. Mukai was a student of Basho Matsuo, one of Japan's greatest poets. Basho even composed a few poems here. Mukai named his residence Rakushisha ("fallen persimmon hut") after a storm had taken down the fruits of the surrounding trees.
Destination: Tenryuji Temple (more details)
Ranked among Kyoto's five great Zen temples, Tenryuji is the largest and most impressive temple in Arashiyama. Founded in 1339 at the beginning of the Muromachi Period (1338-1573), the temple is one of Kyoto's many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In addition to its temple buildings, there are attractive gardens with walking paths.
Destination: Daikakuji Temple (more details)
Daikakuji is a temple of the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism. Formerly the residence of an emperor, the buildings were converted into a temple in 876. During its history the temple traditionally had members of the imperial family serve as the head priest. Beside the main temple buildings there is a large pond and a pagoda.
Destination: Jojakkoji Temple
This mountainside temple was founded in 1596. With small, attractive buildings and gates, the temple has a quiet and understated atmosphere. Maple trees and moss are located just beside the paths and stairs that lead across the temple grounds. From a number of spots, visitors can enjoy views over Kyoto. The main hall is currently being renovated through summer 2016, but a visit is still worthwhile.
Destination: Nisonin Temple
Similar to Jojakkoji, Nisonin Temple is a hillside temple with slightly larger and imposing buildings. A generally understated atmosphere on the temple grounds is partly due to the overhanging trees along approach. Founded in the mid 9th century, Nisonin is a temple of the Tendai sect. There are views over the city from the upper grounds.
Destination: Gioji Temple
Gioji is even more nestled into the forest than Jojakkoji and Nisonin. It is known for its moss garden that is punctuated with tall maple trees. The temple's entrance gate and small main hall have thatched roofs. The latter has an attractive round window looking into the gardens.
Destination: Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple
Adashino Nenbutsuji is located at the end of the Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street. The temple was founded in the early 9th century when the famous monk Kobo Daishi placed stone statues for the souls of the dead here. Today, the temple grounds are covered by hundreds of such stone statues. In the back of the temple, a short path leads through a bamboo forest.
Destination: Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple
Another ten minute walk north of the similarly named Adashino Nenbutsuji, the Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple is famous for its 1200 stone statues of rakan, devoted followers of Buddhism, each with a different facial expression. Created relatively recently in the 1980s and early 1990s, the many statues stand across the temple grounds which cover part of a forested mountain slope.
Destination: Getting There
Kyoto does not have its own airport, but rather is served by Osaka's two airports. There is an excellent road and railway network between the two cities. Overseas travellers can fly into Kansai International Airport and then get a train to Kyoto. Kansai Airport Station is located opposite the arrival lobby where the Japanese Rail (JR) West Haruka Kansai Airport Limited Express Train can be caught.
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Kyoto
Free day at leisure.
Optional tour:
1. 5h Nara Tour
Embark on a short train journey to Nara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, accompanied by your private guide. As Japan's inaugural capital for 84 years in the 8th century, Nara epitomized the nation's cultural and political zenith, fostering significant historical landmarks. Begin your exploration at the awe-inspiring Todaiji Temple, housing the world's largest wooden building and a colossal bronze Buddha statue. Continue to the revered Kasuga Taisha Shrine, renowned for its vibrant vermilion buildings and adorned with centuries-old lanterns. Conclude your visit with a leisurely stroll through Nara Park, home to over a thousand sacred deer, revered as national treasures and considered messengers of the gods.
Inclusion:
- English-Speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Transport (Bus, Taxi)
Start time: 8:45am
Duration: 5h
PU/DO: Hotel
Additional Optional Tours:
2. Kyoto Tea Ceremony Private Experience Flower House
3. Kyoto Shared Tea Ceremony Experience Flower House
4. Izakaya Cooking Private Class
5. Izakaya Cooking Shared Class
Noku Kyoto is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Kyoto, Japan, offering a harmonious blend of modern comfort and traditional Japanese aesthetics. Situated adjacent to the Kyoto Imperial Palace and just a minute's walk from Marutamachi Subway Station, it provides guests with convenient access to the city's historical sites and cultural landmarks .
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tokyo
Tokyo is the vibrant capital city of Japan, famous for its unique blend of traditional and modern cultures. With its bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, and delicious food, Tokyo is a must-visit destination for any traveler. The city is home to more than 13 million people, making it one of the largest and most populous cities in the world.
Visitors to Tokyo will be struck by the city's incredible energy and excitement, as well as its rich history and cultural heritage. From the iconic Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world, to the serene grounds of the Meiji Shrine, Tokyo has something to offer everyone.
One of the city's main attractions is its delicious cuisine, which ranges from classic Japanese dishes like sushi and tempura, to international options like Italian and French cuisine. Tokyo is known for having some of the best street food in the world, with a huge selection of food stalls and vendors selling everything from traditional Japanese sweets to juicy skewers of grilled meat.
For those interested in shopping, Tokyo is a paradise, with endless department stores, boutiques, and street vendors selling everything from traditional Japanese goods to the latest in cutting-edge fashion and technology. The city is also home to some of the world's most famous electronics stores, making it a great place to pick up the latest gadgets and gizmos.
When it comes to entertainment, Tokyo has a lot to offer. From traditional performances like Kabuki theater, to modern pop concerts and music festivals, the city is a hub for the arts and culture. There are also many museums and galleries to visit, showcasing everything from classical Japanese art to modern contemporary pieces.
For those looking for some peace and quiet, Tokyo has many parks and gardens to explore, including the beautiful Ueno Park and the tranquil grounds of the Imperial Palace. The city is also surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, from the towering peaks of Mount Fuji to the scenic coastlines of the Izu Peninsula.
No trip to Tokyo would be complete without a visit to its iconic neighborhoods, such as Akihabara, known for its electronics and anime culture, or the trendy neighborhoods of Harajuku and Shibuya, famous for their street fashion and shopping.
Overview
Those that have been on holiday in Tokyo before will testify that the sky scrapper filled hyperactive skyline changes as regularly as the sun rises and sets. Buy a Tokyo holiday is by no means a departure from traditional Japanese culture and heritage. Tokyo holidays may epitomise a super modern city with a cosmopolitan dining scene, more cafes and bars than you could visit in a lifetime, fantastic public transportation and grassy parks, but it is also a city that is fiercely protective of its heritage.
Destination: Japanese heritage lives on in Tokyo
Tokyo may appear to be a city that is fixated on the future, but dig beneath the neon façade and masses of people and you will find tranquil backstreets, where dinky wooden houses are fronted by neatly clipped bonsai trees. Holidays in Tokyo promise energetic neighbourhood festivals almost every day of the year. The onsens which are public baths cherished by locals as an escape from the frantic energy of the city are still is popular as ever and most locals still frequently visit the many local shrine and temples.
Destination: Culinary Tokyo Holidays
If you like sushi then nothing beats the authentic experience of sampling the best sushi you have every eaten whilst on holiday in Tokyo. The city also boasts more Michelin starred restaurants than any other destination and Tokyo’s artisan culture makes the dining experience here truly unique. The recipes and techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation mean that even the most common dishes on Japanese restaurant menus across the world taste better in Tokyo. Whether this is because of the quality of ingredients, the fresh produce that is used or the attention to detail that is seen even in the preparation of a bowl of noodles, your taste buds will not be disappointed during your Tokyo holiday..
Destination: Shopping in Tokyo
The strength of the pound against the yen means that shopping is true highlight of any holiday in Tokyo. Tokyo is of course famous for its electronics and gadgets and that means you will need to budget for paying the airline for your overweight luggage on the way home. Just make sure you bring a spare suitcase! And its not just the futuristic toys that will lighten your wallet during your holiday in Tokyo. The trend setting garments and local crafts are all extremely desirable.
Destination: Tokyo Climate
The Japanese are very proud of the fact that Japan has four distinct seasons; they place much more emphasis on the seasons than people do in the West. Kimono, dishes and bowls used for kaiseki (elaborate feasts utilizing seasonal food), and Noh plays all change with the seasons, and most festivals are tied to seasonal rites. Even Tokyoites note the seasons: Almost as though on cue, businesspeople will change virtually overnight from their winter to summer business attire. And when the cherry blossoms burst forth, it seems like the entire metropolis comes out to greet them.
Destination: Summer in Tokyo
Summer, which begins in June, is heralded by the rainy season, which lasts from about mid-June to mid-July in Tokyo. July, on the average, has 10 to 12 rainy days, but even though it doesn't rain every day, umbrellas are imperative. When the rain stops, it gets unbearably hot and humid through August -- you might want to head for Hakone for a bit of fresh air. Otherwise, you'll be most comfortable in light cottons, and you'd be wise to pack sunscreen and a hat (Japanese women are also fond of sun parasols), but be sure to pack a lightweight jacket for unexpected cool evenings and overly air-conditioned rooms. The period from the end of August through September is typhoon season, though most storms stay out at sea and vent their fury on land as thunderstorms.
Destination: Tokyo Autumn
Autumn, which lasts September through November, is one of the best times to visit Tokyo. The days are pleasant and slightly cool, the skies are a brilliant blue, and the maple trees turn scarlet. Bring a warm jacket.
Destination: Finding the chill in Tokyo
Winter lasts from about December to March in Tokyo, with days that are generally clear and cold with extremely low humidity. Tokyo doesn't get much snow, but it can, so be prepared. I remember one winter when snow fell in a slushy mush through March and into the cherry-blossom season. In any case, the temperature is usually above freezing.
Destination: Tokyo spring time
Spring is ushered in by a magnificent fanfare of plum and cherry blossoms in March and April, an exquisite time of year when all of Japan is set ablaze in whites and pinks. The blossoms last only a few days, symbolizing to the Japanese the fragile nature of beauty and of life itself. Tokyo may still have cool, rainy weather until May, so be sure to bring a light raincoat or jacket.
Destination: Visiting the tuna auction
The number of visitors to the tuna auction is limited to 120 per day, the maximum number which the market's infrastructure can accommodate. Tourists, who wish to see the auction, have to apply at the Osakana Fukyu Center (Fish Information Center) at the Kachidoki Gate, starting from 5:00am on a first-come, first-serve basis (may start earlier on busy days). A first group of 60 visitors will be admitted to the auction between 5:25 and 5:50, while a second group of 60 visitors will be admitted between 5:50 and 6:15.
On busy days, visitors start lining up long before 5am, and the maximum number is likely to be exceeded, in which case later arriving visitors will not be able to see the auction. Successful applicants will be able to view the auction from a designated visitor area. It is not allowed to view the auction from anywhere else or to use flash photography or to interfere with the business action in any other way.
Destination: Visiting the wholesale area
The wholesale area consists of hundreds of small stands in a large, crowded hall, where buyers and sellers hurry along narrow lanes with their carts and trucks. It is an exciting area for tourists to view and photograph the fish and the action, but it is also an area where tourists are likely to interfere with the professionals at work.
Consequently, in order to prevent accidents and interference with business, tourists are not allowed into the wholesale area before 9am, when the peak of the business activities take place. Even when visiting after 9am, tourists are asked to refrain from bringing any luggage into the market and to be constantly alert of what is happening around them to avoid blocking traffic.
Destination: Visiting other areas of the market
Instead of visiting the inner market, tourists are encouraged to visit Tsukiji's outer market, which is located just adjacent to the inner market and caters to the public. The outer market consists of a few blocks of small retail shops and restaurants crowded along narrow lanes. Here you can find all sorts of food related goods, knives and fresh seafood and produce for sale in smaller (than wholesale) portions.
A visit to Tsukiji Market is best combined with a fresh sushi breakfast or lunch at one of the local restaurants. There are restaurants both in the inner and outer market area, which are typically open from 5:00 in the morning to around noon or early afternoon.
Destination: Electronics
Hundreds of electronics shops, ranging from tiny one man stalls specializing in a particular electronic component to large electronics retailers, line the main Chuo Dori street and the crowded side streets around Akihabara. They offer everything from the newest computers, cameras, televisions, mobile phones, electronics parts and home appliances to second-hand goods and electronic junk.
A few chain stores such as Sofmap and Laox each operate multiple specialized branches along the main roads, while small independent shops can be found in the side streets. The only mega sized store is the Yodobashi Camera complex on the east side of the station.
Note that some of the electronics on sale are only intended for use in Japan due to voltage and other technical differences, Japanese language documentation and limited warranties. However, several stores also feature a selection of international models intended for overseas use, and most also offer tax free shopping to foreign tourists on purchases of over 10,000 yen (passport required).
Destination: Otaku Goods
The character of Akihabara has constantly changed over the decades and continues to do so. In the last decade Akihabara has emerged as a center of Japanese otaku and anime culture, and dozens of stores specializing in anime, manga, retro video games, figurines, card games and other collectibles have filled the spaces between the electronics retailers.
In addition to shops, various other animation related establishments have become popular in the area, particularly maid cafes where waitresses dress up and act like maids or anime characters, and manga cafes (manga kissa), a type of internet cafe where customers can read comics and watch DVDs in addition to having access to the internet.
Destination: Sofmap
Sofmap operates 12 shops around Akihabara. In addition to their main store, they have many specialty branches that feature a type of item such as Apple products, CDs or games, as well as a number of outlets for used products such as used computers, cameras, CDs and software.
Destination: Laox
Operating three stores in Akihabara, including the Main Store and Pocket Plus One mobile products store that both sell tax free items, as well as the Musicvox branch specializing in musical instruments and Asobitcity branch that carries hobby and game related products.
Destination: Yamada Denki
Yamada Denki operates a "LABI" store just across the street from the Akihabara Electric Town exit of JR Akihabara Station. It specializes in personal computers, pc accessories and household electronics.
Destination: Akky
Akky specializes in tax free goods and operates two shops around Akihabara Station. Akky sells a variety of electronic equipment for overseas use, including cameras, computers, televisions, DVD players and software. Some branches carry used or refurbished items.
Destination: Yodobashi Camera
The Shinjuku based discount electronic store giant Yodobashi Camera opened its huge Akihabara branch in September 2005. Unlike most other electronic shops, it is located on the east side of Akihabara Station. This branch offers one stop shopping for computers, games, watches and cameras, and sells tax free and international models.
Destination: Maid Cafes
Maid cafes are cosplay themed restaurants where guests are served by waitresses that are typically dressed as French maids. In addition to serving food, the maids engage in conversation and games with the customers and treat them with the care and respectful language due to the master of a house. Maid cafes are popular with both men and women, and some cafes, like the @Home Cafe, offer English speaking maids.
Destination: Tokyo Anime Center
The Tokyo Anime Center is found on the fourth floor of the UDX Building of Akihabara Crossfield. It stages anime related exhibitions, hosts anime related events and contains a shop selling toys, stationery and other souvenirs.
Destination: Don Quijote
Don Quijote is a discount store chain that carries everything from groceries and toys to electronics and high end fashion goods. The Akihabara branch is home to the girl pop group AKB48, who perform daily shows at their theater on the 8th floor of the store (3000 yen). There is also a branch of the @Home Cafe maid cafe on the 5th floor of the store.
Destination: Radio Kaikan
Radio Kaikan is one of Akihabara's iconic landmarks, and features more than 30 stores selling electronics and other anime related goods. Some of the famous stores include K-Books, Kaiyodo and Volks which sell all kinds of manga, models, toys, trading cards, figurines and collectibles. The building was torn down in 2011, was rebuilt, and reopened its doors in 2014 as a taller, ten story building.
Destination: Super Potato
Super Potato sells all types of video games and video game consoles, and specializes in retro systems and games. Here you can find practically every game system ever produced along with a huge selection of used game cartridges, discs and game accessories.
Destination: Gamers
Gamers sells a wide range of anime and manga related goods including movies, video games, CDs, stationery, software and character goods.
Destination: Mandarake
Mandarake, the self described "largest manga and anime shop in the world", operates a large branch in Akihabara. Specializing in pre-owned goods, it is a good place to find rare and collectible manga, figurines, dolls, posters, CDs, toys and other types of manga related goods.
Destination: Gundam Cafe
The Gundam Cafe is themed after the extremely popular Mobile Suit Gundam anime series. The cafe serves gundam themed dishes and is decorated with art and themes from the series. A gift shop is attached and sells character goods and souvenirs.
Destination: AKB48 Cafe and Shop
The AKB48 Cafe next door to the Gundam Cafe is a themed restaurant based on the popular idol group AKB48. The cafe serves food inspired by the idols, and character goods are sold at the attached shops. The cafe has a theater where a rotating cast of AKB members perform daily (reservations required) during scheduled performance times.
Destination: Akihabara Crossfield
The Akihabara Crossfield complex consists of the Akihabara Dai Building and the UDX Building. The lower floors have shops and restaurants, while the upper floors aim to be the "global center for the IT industry" and accommodate offices, conference space and showrooms. The second floor of the UDX Building houses the Akiba Info Center while the fourth floor is home to the Tokyo Anime Center.
Destination: Imperial East Gardens
The Imperial Palace East Gardens (皇居東御苑, Kōkyo Higashi Gyoen) are a part of the inner palace area and are open to the public. They are the former site of Edo Castle's innermost circles of defense, the honmaru ("main circle") and ninomaru ("secondary circle"). None of the main buildings remain today, but the moats, walls, entrance gates and several guardhouses still exist.
Edo Castle was the residence of the Tokugawa shogun who ruled Japan from 1603 to 1867. Emperor Meiji also resided there from 1868 to 1888 before moving to the newly constructed Imperial Palace.
A wide lawn and the remaining foundation of the former castle tower can be found on top of the hill, where the castle's innermost buildings once stood. The castle tower was completed in 1638 as the tallest castle tower in Japan's history. But only a few years later in 1657, it was destroyed by citywide fires and has not been rebuilt ever since.
In place of the former buildings in the secondary circle of defense (ninomaru) at the foot of the hill, a nice Japanese style garden has been created.
Destination: Ginza Wako
Built in 1932, the clock tower of the Ginza Wako building is the symbol of the Ginza, standing at the northwest corner of the district's centrally located Ginza 4-Chome junction of Chuo and Harumi Dori. Inside the building, jewelry and luxury items are sold.
Destination: Sony Building
The newest products by Sony, including DVD recorders, televisions, cameras, audio sets, mobile phones, computers and Play Station products, are displayed to the public in the showrooms in this building. There is also a tourist information desk on the first floor as well as a few shops, restaurants and cafes.
Destination: Kabukiza Theater
Regular tickets for an entire play typically cost between 4,000 and 22,000 yen depending on the seat and require advance reservations. Tickets for just single acts are sold on the day at the theater for around 2,000 yen.
The Kabukiza is one of the best places to see kabuki, featuring plays almost every day. The building was reconstructed and reopened in April 2013. It closely resembles its predecessor except for a skyscraper that now stands above it.
Destination: Yurakucho Gado-shita Dining
One of Tokyo's most interesting dining districts is located beneath the elevated train tracks north and south of Yurakucho Station (in Japanese: Gado-shita from "below the girder"). Stretching over about 700 meters, dozens of restaurants are built into the brick arches below the Yamanote Line, ranging widely from small yakitori joints and izakaya to beer halls and slightly more upscale French wine bars.
Destination: Police Museum
Located just outside of the Ginza area to the north, the four floor Police Museum is operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department and is free of charge. Although there are no English explanations, displays such as historical uniforms and equipment can be easily understood.
Destination: Mitsukoshi
The Ginza store of the Mitsukoshi department store chain was opened in 1930 and offers goods and services on twelve floors. Mitsukoshi's history reaches back to the year 1673.
Destination: Matsuya
The Ginza store of the Matsuya department store chain offers fashion, foods, household goods, a pet shop, a travel agency and an exhibition hall on its eleven floors.
Destination: Printemps
The Ginza store of the Paris based Printemps department store chain offers fashion, accessories, wines, foods and restaurants on ten floors. Printemps Ginza was opened in the year 1984.
Destination: Marronnier Gate
The 12 floor Marronnier Gate shopping mall opened in 2007 close to Yurakucho Station. Clothing stores are located from the basement to the fourth floor, while the top three floors are taken up by restaurants. From the fifth floor to the ninth floor, the building is occupied by the Ginza branch of the popular Tokyu Hands department store.
Destination: Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi
The first department store in Japan, construction of Mitsukoshi's current seven story flagship store was completed in 1935, and was later designated as a historic structure in 1999. There is an adjacent 10 story annex building that has direct connections on a few floors. It is possible to spend an entire day shopping here, and many of its shops are decidedly high end.
Destination: Coredo Muromachi
Located just across the street from the Mitsukoshi department store, Coredo Muromachi is a newly redeveloped shopping and dining complex comprising of multiple elegant skyscrapers. The trendy area has a modern, yet traditional style inspired by the district's past. Many of its stores offer traditional goods and foods from across Japan, and some have operated in the district for many centuries.
Destination: Coredo Nihonbashi
Located just beside Nihonbashi Subway Station, Coredo's approx. 50 shops and restaurants are spread across the lower five floors of the large building. The basement has one of central Tokyo's few regular supermarkets.
Destination: Mitsui Memorial Museum
The museum has elegant exhibition galleries in which objects are displayed from the art collection of the Mitsui family, the same family that opened the nearby Mitsukoshi department store. The museum was opened in 2005 and has regularly changing themed exhibitions and a reconstruction of a teahouse. It is located in the Mitsui Tower complex that also houses the Mandarin Oriental on its top floors.
Destination: Currency Museum
Located in an annex building across the street from the Bank of Japan, the museum was opened in 1982 to commemorate the bank's centenary. A detailed history of currency in Japan is displayed, and there are plenty of interesting historical coins and bills on display.
Destination: Tokyo Dome
Hours and entrance fees vary depending on the specific events.
Tokyo Dome, seating 55,000, is the home stadium of the Yomiuri Giants and Nippon Ham, two professional baseball teams. Concerts, festivals and other events are held in the stadium when there are no games. Tokyo Dome, nicknamed "Big Egg", was completed in 1988 and replaced the former Korakuen Stadium.
Destination: LaQua
Opened in 2003, LaQua is a popular relaxation oasis in the center of busy Tokyo, featuring real hot spring pools, saunas, relaxation space and various massage and beauty services. The hot spring water is brought to the surface from a depth of more than one kilometer.
Destination: Tokyo Dome City Attractions
An amusement park with various rides and entertainment facilities, including roller coasters, a ferris wheel and a tower that drops riders from a height of 80 meters.
Destination: Tokyo Dome Hotel
Opened in June 2000, the hotel consists of 43 floors and 1006 guest rooms with nice views of the city. The hotel includes ten restaurants and bars and several banquet rooms, business and leisure facilities.
Destination: Koishikawa Korakuen
Not part of Tokyo Dome City, but located only a short walk from it, Koishikawa Korakuen is a beautiful landscape garden from the early Edo Period that is enjoyable during all four seasons of the year.
Destination: Marunouchi Building (Marubiru)
Opened in 2002 just in front of Tokyo Station, the Marunouchi Building (Marubiru) is one of the districts landmark buildings. Shopping and restaurants can be found on the lower six floors, while the top two floors (35 and 36) offer nice restaurants with a view over the city.
Destination: Shin Marunouchi Building (Shin Marubiru)
The Shin Marunouchi Building (Shin Marubiru), was opened in 2007 opposite the Marubiru as another landmark building outside of Tokyo Station. It features over 150 shops on its lower five floors and about 40 restaurants on the 5th, 6th and 7th floors. The 7th floor is surrounded by a publicly accessible balcony.
Destination: Kitte
Opened in spring 2013, Kitte (Japanese for postal stamp) is a shopping and dining complex on the lower floors of the JP Tower next to Tokyo Station. The first four floors feature over 70 stores selling mostly fashion and interior goods, while the top two floors contain restaurants and a rooftop garden with views out over Tokyo Station. The Tokyo Central Post Office is located on the ground floor with its facade preserved from the previous building.
Destination: Marunouchi Oazo
Opened in 2004, Oazo is a shopping, dining and hotel complex facing the Marunouchi North Exit of Tokyo Station. Four of Oazo's 18 floors are occupied by the Maruzen bookstore with a large foreign language section, while the top ten floors constitute the Marunouchi Hotel.
Destination: Nakadori Avenue
Spanning the length of the Marunouchi district, Nakadori Avenue is a tree lined shopping street running between the large shopping and office buildings. The street is lined by cafes, fashion boutiques and other shops, and gets closed to motorized traffic during lunch time.
Destination: Marunouchi Brick Square
One of the newer shopping and dining centers in Marunouchi, Brick Square is located along Nakadori near Marubiru. The building's lower two floors feature specialty shops, fashion boutiques, cafes and restaurants, while the 2nd and 3rd floors feature trendy restaurants and bars. The 4th floor houses a fitness gym. The Ichigokan Museum is also part of the Brick Square grounds.
Destination: Tokyo Building Tokia
Tokia is a shopping and dining center in the lower floors of the Tokyo Building, which aims to be an evening spot where people can gather after work to enjoy good food and music in a fun atmosphere. As such it is filled with a variety of trendy restaurants and bars that cater to the after work crowd.
Destination: Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum
Originally built in 1894 for the Mitsubishi Company as the first Western style office building in the Marunouchi district, the Ichigokan was reconstructed and reopened in 2010 as a museum focusing on 19th century Western art.
Destination: Tokyo International Forum
The Tokyo International Forum is one of the city's many architectural highlights. It is a venue for various conventions, exhibitions, concerts and other events. An event calendar can be found on the official website (see links towards the bottom of the page).
Destination: Kaminarimon (Kaminari Gate)
Kaminarimon is the first of two large entrance gates leading to Sensoji Temple. First built more than 1000 years ago, it is the symbol of Asakusa. The Nakamise shopping street leads from Kaminarimon to the temple grounds.
Destination: Sensoji Temple (more details)
Sensoji ("Senso" is an alternative reading for Asakusa and "ji" means temple) is Tokyo's most famous and popular temple. Built in the 7th century, it is also one of its oldest, although the current buildings are postwar reconstructions.
Destination: Asakusa Shrine
Asakusa Shrine, also known as Sanja-sama, was built during the Edo Period and survived the air raids of 1945. The shrine's festival, the Sanja Matsuri, is one of Tokyo's most spectacular and popular. It is held every year on a weekend (Friday to Sunday) in mid May.
Destination: Dempoin Temple
Dempoin is a temple just next to Sensoji, known for its beautiful garden. Unfortunately, the temple and garden are not open to the public. Visiting the garden by appointment, as it used to be possible, cannot be done anymore, either.
Destination: Nakamise Shopping Street
The Nakamise shopping street stretches over approximately 250 meters from Kaminarimon to the main grounds of Sensoji Temple. It is lined by more than 50 shops, which offer local specialties and the usual array of tourist souvenirs.
Destination: Shin-Nakamise Shopping Street
Shin-Nakamise or "New Nakamise" runs perpendicular to the Nakamise Shopping Street. It is a covered shopping arcade lined by various shops and restaurants.
Destination: Kappabashi Shopping Street (more details)
Kappabashi is an almost one kilometer long street lined by shops catering to restaurant businesses. Items on sale include tableware, kitchen utensils and appliances, sample food, furniture, signs, lanterns and uniforms.
Destination: Rox Department Store
Rox is a shopping and entertainment complex consisting of a main building (Rox) and three annex buildings (Rox2G, Rox3 and Rox Dome). Many shops sell fashion for ladies and kids. There is a 24h supermarket in the basement.
Destination: Tobu Asakusa Station & Matsuya Department Store
Tobu Asakusa Station is the terminal station of Tobu trains heading into the suburbs and prefectures north of Tokyo, including trains to Nikko. The station building also houses a Matsuya department store that spans eight floors.
Destination: Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center was newly opened in 2012, adding diversity to the streets of Asakusa with its interesting architectural design. The eight story building offers a counter providing tourist information in multiple languages, free wifi connectivity, a cafe, and an observation deck which provides good views looking onto Sensoji Temple and the Nakamise Shopping Street.
Destination: Sumida River Cruise
Tokyo Water Bus operates sightseeing ships every 30 to 60 minutes from Asakusa Pier via Hama Rikyu Garden to Hinode Pier, where you can transfer to a ship to Odaiba. In addition, there are less frequent, direct ships from Asakusa to Odaiba.
Destination: Sumida Park
This riverside park stretches along both sides of Sumida River for several hundred meters. In spring it becomes a popular cherry blossom viewing spot, while on the last Saturday of July it becomes the site of the Sumida River Firework.
Destination: Rokku Entertainment District
Rokku used to be Tokyo's leading entertainment district before the war, hosting Japan's first cinema and more. However, the district has not regained its former popularity after the war. Today, Rokku offers attractions such as rakugo theaters, cinemas and pachinko parlors.
Destination: Hanayashiki Amusement Park
Originally opened as a flower park, Hanayashiki has a history of more than 150 years. Located just a few steps from Sensoji, the miniature amusement park offers numerous attractions, including a small Ferris wheel, roller coaster, carousel and Space Shot.
Destination: Asahi Beer Tower
The Asahi Beer Tower and Asahi Super Dry Hall with its characteristic Flamme d'Or were, completed in 1989 and host the headquarters of Asahi Breweries. Furthermore, several restaurants can be found in the complex.
Destination: Taikokan (Drum Museum)
Drums from around the world, including Japanese taiko drums, are exhibited in this small museum. Visitors can play several of the drums. The museum is located in a floor above the Miyamoto Unosuke Nishi Asakusa store, which sells Japanese drums and festival goods.
Destination: Kaneiji Temple
During the Edo Period Kaneiji Temple was one of the largest and wealthiest temples in the city. It was destroyed during the Boshin War, and remnants of the original temple complex, such as its five storied pagoda and Toshogu Shrine, are scattered around the park. The current Kaneiji is a relatively unremarkable, small temple located in a quiet neighborhood near the northwest corner of Ueno Park.
Destination: Kiyomizu Kannon Temple
Kiyomizu Kannondo was originally built in 1631 as part of Kaneiji Temple. Its design, including a wooden balcony extending from the hillside, was inspired by Kiyomizudera in Kyoto. The temple is home to an image of Kosodate Kannon, the goddess of conception, and is particularly popular among women hoping to have children.
Destination: Toshogu Shrine
Ueno Toshogu Shrine was built in 1616 and is one of numerous shrines across the country that are dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo Shogunate. The Ueno Toshogu Shrine used to be incorporated into Kaneiji Temple until 1868. Major renovation works were completed in 2013. Special entrance to the shrine's Botan Garden from Jan to mid Feb and mid Apr to early May (600 yen).
Destination: Bentendo
Bentendo is an octagonal temple hall on an island in Shinobazu Pond at the southern end of the park. The temple is dedicated to Benten, the goddess of good fortune, wealth, music and knowledge. Bentendo's grounds are especially lively during the cherry blossom season when they are crowded with festival food stalls.
Destination: Tokyo National Museum (more details)
The oldest and largest museum in Japan, the Tokyo National Museum is made up of multiple buildings, each like a separate museum in itself. They house the largest collection of national treasures and important cultural items in the country.
Destination: National Science Museum
This museum covers both science and natural history with hands-on physics and robotics experiments, an impressive collection of mounted animals and a 360 degree virtual theater relocated from the Aichi Expo.
Destination: Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum
Reopened in April 2012, this museum displays all types of art in its six galleries. There is no permanent collection, but multiple concurrently held temporary exhibitions by various art groups. Some exhibitions are paid, others are free.
Destination: National Museum of Western Art
Admission: 430 yen (free on 2nd and 4th Saturday each month, and Nov 3)
This museum displays Western art, primarily by European artists. There are rotating exhibitions from the museum's collection as well as temporary special exhibitions.
Destination: Shitamachi Museum
Shitamachi is the name of the artisan and merchant part of old Tokyo. This nostalgic museum has exhibits and reconstructions that show what life was like in Tokyo from the late Meiji to early Showa Periods.
Destination: Ueno Zoo
Opened in 1882, Ueno Zoo is Japan's oldest zoo. Its most popular residents are giant panda bears, which first moved here in 1972 on the occasion of the normalization of relations between Japan and China. The zoo temporarily had no pandas after the death of Ling Ling in 2008, but received two new baby pandas in February 2011.
Destination: Tobu
Located on top of the west exit of Ikebukuro Station is the Tobu Department Store, one of Tokyo's largest department stores. It belongs to the Tobu Group, which also operates several suburban railway lines, including the Tobu Tojo Line which terminates at Ikebukuro Station.
Destination: Seibu
Located on top of the east exit of Ikebukuro Station is the flagship Seibu Department Store, another of Tokyo's largest department stores. It belongs to the Seibu Group, which also operates several suburban railway lines, including the Seibu Ikebukuro Line which terminates at Ikebukuro Station.
Destination: Marui
Marui Department Store is a leading fashion retailer with branch stores in almost all of Tokyo's major districts. Marui's Ikebukuro Branch is located a few blocks west of Ikebukuro Station and sells mens and womens fashion and accessories and household goods.
Destination: Sunshine City
Opened in 1978, Sunshine City is Tokyo's first city within the city. The focal point of the complex is the 240 meter tall Sunshine 60 skyscraper with an observation deck on its top floor. The complex also contains shops and restaurants, an aquarium, planetarium, museum, indoor theme parks, as well as the Sunshine Prince Hotel and offices. Sunshine City's shops are open daily from 10:00 to 20:00, restaurants from 11:00 to 22:00.
Destination: Sunshine 60 Observation Deck
The Sunshine 60 Observation Deck will be closed from May 7, 2015 for about one year for renovation. The observation deck is located on the top floor of the 240 meter tall Sunshine 60 skyscraper. It is not as centrally located as other observation decks in Tokyo. The building also used to have an open air observation deck, but it was closed to the public in summer 2012.
Destination: Namja Town
Namja Town is an indoor theme park by Namco, the creator of Pacman and many other arcade games and leisure products. Namja Town was recently renovated and includes various small rides and attractions. There are two food corners specialized in gyoza and desserts, in a nice Showa Period town setting with recreated old alleys.
Destination: J-World Tokyo
Located just above Namja Town is J-World Tokyo, another indoor theme park by Namco. J-World Tokyo was newly opened in July 2013 and is based on characters and stories from popular manga series. There are a handful of attractions themed on the hit series of Dragonball, One Piece and Naruto, as well as souvenir shops and carnival game stalls.
Destination: Sunshine Aquarium
The Sunshine Aquarium exhibits creatures from seas, oceans and tropical forests around the world, including stingrays, sunfish, frogs, snakes, penguins, seals and otters. Located on the 10th floor of the World Import Mart Building in the Sunshine City complex, the aquarium was recently renovated and reopened in summer 2011.
Destination: Bic Camera
Bic Camera, one of Japan's leading discount electronics retailers, has its flagship store at the East Exit of Ikebukuro Station. Several more branch stores are located on both sides of the station, including a new outlet branch.
Destination: Yamada Denki
Yamada Denki is one of Japan's most successful electronics chains, and has recently opened branches around Ikebukuro Station in direct competition with Bic Camera. Its branches are found on the east side of the station.
Destination: Tokyo Metropolitan Art Space
The Tokyo Metropolitan Art Space is a public art center that mainly features performing arts, especially concerts, operas, theater and musicals. Its main hall is equipped with one of the largest pipe organs in Japan.
Destination: Kokugikan Sumo Stadium
The Kokugikan seats over 10,000 visitors and hosts three of the six annual sumo tournaments (in January, May and September). On non-tournament days, a shop selling various sumo goods and a small sumo museum are open to visitors.
Destination: Edo-Tokyo Museum (more details)
Through numerous models of towns, figurines, life-sized figures and many other exhibits, this outstanding museum vividly illustrates the past of Tokyo.
Destination: Tokyo Memorial Hall
Located in Yokoamicho Park, the memorial hall serves to remember the victims of the Tokyo air raids during World War Two. Peace is advocated, and prayers for the victims can be made. Next to the hall stands a memorial monument for the Korean victims, as well as a peace monument.
Destination: Great Kanto Earthquake Memorial Museum
Also located in Yokoamicho Park, this museum displays remains of the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, as well as items which demonstrate the aids which foreign countries rendered to help Tokyo in the aftermath of the disaster.
Destination: Kyu-Yasuda Teien Garden
The Kyu-Yasuda Teien Garden has a pond in the shape of the Japanese kanji "kokoro", meaning "heart". It is known to be a garden representative of a Meiji Period style garden.
Destination: Center Gai
The birthplace of many Japanese fashion trends, Center Gai is a busy pedestrian zone in the heart of Shibuya lined by stores, boutiques and game centers. In the evenings the street is crowded with young people heading to night clubs, restaurants and bars, or just loitering around.
Destination: Koen Dori
Koen Dori, lit. "Park Street", is a popular shopping street leading from the Marui department store to Yoyogi Park. It was named after Parco department store (parco is Italian for park) and the fact that the street leads to Yoyogi Park.
Destination: Spain Slope
Spain Slope (Supeinzaka) is a narrow, approximately 100 meter long pedestrian street with stairs leading up the slope to the Parco department store. It is lined by boutiques, cafes and restaurants, and was nicknamed for its resemblance to a Spanish street scene.
Destination: Love Hotel Hill
This area of Shibuya has a high concentration of love hotels, which offer couples a private room for a 2 to 3 hour "rest" during the day (usually around 5,000 yen) or an overnight "stay" (usually around 10,000 yen).
Destination: Shibuya Hikarie
Shibuya Hikarie is a new high rise complex with cultural space just east of Shibuya Station. Besides a theater and exhibition floors, it offers office space on its upper floors and shopping and dining on its lower floors.
Destination: Tokyu
There are two Tokyu department stores in Shibuya: the twelve floor Shibuya Station branch sits above Shibuya Station, while the ten floor main store is located a 5-10 minute walk northwest of the station.
Destination: Shibuya 109
Shibuya 109 is a trend setting fashion complex for young women and an icon of the Shibuya district with more than one hundred boutiques on ten floors. Usually pronounced "Shibuya ichi maru kyu", the complex's name can also be read as "Shibuya to kyu", identifying the complex as part of the Tokyu Group.
Destination: Shibuya Mark City
Shibuya Mark City is a small city within the city, located just next to and connected with JR Shibuya Station. It consists of a wide range of stores and restaurants, the Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu, office space, a bus terminal and the terminal station of the Keio Inokashira Line.
Destination: Tokyu Hands
Promoted as a "Creative Life Store", Tokyu Hands has everything from do-it-yourself, interior, hobby, crafts, outdoors, travel goods, stationery and more. The Shibuya store spans eight floors.
Destination: Seibu
The Shibuya branch of the Seibu department store chain consists of nine floors, featuring mainly fashion goods and some fashion boutiques. Restaurants can be found on the top and bottom floors.
Destination: Loft
Loft is Seibu's answer to Tokyu Hands, and also offering a large array of products related to interior, hobby, crafts and gifts, but with less emphasis on do-it-yourself products. The Loft Shibuya branch consists of seven floors.
Destination: Parco
Parco is a shopping complex with an emphasis on fashion. The complex consists of numerous branch stores in the Shibuya area: Part 1, Part 3, Quattro, Zero Gate and Up's-4 found mainly around Koen Dori and the Spain Slope.
Destination: Marui
Marui Department Store is a leading fashion retailer with branch stores in almost all of Tokyo's major districts. Their Shibuya branch stores specialize in men's and women's fashion and are found north of the station around Koen Dori.
Destination: Hachiko Statue
A statue of a loyal dog named Hachiko. According to a famous story, the dog waited for his master every day in front of Shibuya Station, and continued to do so for years even after his master had passed away. It is one of Tokyo's most popular meeting points.
Destination: Bunkamura
Located directly next to the Tokyu department store (main store), Bunkamura, lit. "culture village", consists of a concert hall, a theater, two cinemas, a museum with constantly changing exhibitions, and a few shops and restaurants.
Destination: Fuji TV Building
Hours: 10:00 to 18:00 (some restaurants until 20:00, 22:00 on weekends)
Closed: Mondays (or Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday).
Admission: Free (observation deck: 550 yen)
The headquarters of Fuji Television, one of Japan's private, nationwide TV stations. You can see some exhibits on popular programs, buy Fuji TV goods at a shop and access the futuristic looking building's observatory deck housed in the sphere shaped part of the building.
Destination: Decks Tokyo Beach
Closed: No closing days
Admission: Free (separate admission fees for theme parks)
Decks is a shopping mall featuring various stores, restaurants and multiple indoor theme parks, including the Tokyo Joypolis (reopened in July 2012 after renovations), a Legoland Discovery Center, a Madam Tussauds wax museum and a trick art museum. A Hong Kong themed food theme park and the Muscle Park were closed in 2010.
Destination: Aquacity Odaiba
Aquacity is a shopping mall featuring various stores, boutiques, restaurants, cafes and a 13 screen cinema complex. The fifth floor houses a ramen food theme park where you can try different ramen from all over Japan. There are nice views of the Rainbow Bridge from the wooden deck in front of Aquacity and neighboring Decks.
Destination: DiverCity Tokyo Plaza
Closed: No closing days
This shopping, dining and entertainment complex opened in 2012. Its most unique attraction is the Gundam Front Tokyo with various attractions and a shop centered around the anime series' robots. A "life sized" Gundam statue stands in front of the building.
Destination: Rainbow Bridge
The Rainbow Bridge connects Odaiba to the rest of Tokyo. The two story bridge is an iconic symbol of the bay and is especially beautiful during its nightly illumination. The bridge supports an expressway, a regular road, the Yurikamome train line and pedestrian walkways along both sides.
Destination: Telecom Center
The Telecom Center is a major hub on the information highway with several large satellite antennas on its observation deck. The observation deck also offers nice view of the bay area and as far as Mount Fuji on clear days.
Destination: Museum of Maritime Science
This museum looks like a large cruise ship docked along the Odaiba waterfront. The main building with exhibits on the history and technology of ships and shipping is currently closed for renovation. In the meantime, a mini museum has been set up with a portion of the museum collection on display. Outside you can board two real ships that are permanently docked next to the museum.
Destination: National Museum of Emerging Science
Also known as the Miraikan, this well done, highly interactive and bilingual science museum includes exhibits about environmental issues, robots (starring Asimo among others), information technology, biology and space exploration.
Destination: Oedo Onsen Monogatari
Opened in 2003, Oedo Onsen is a hot spring theme park which reproduces the atmosphere of the Edo Period. Here you can enjoy various types of indoor and outdoor baths which are fed by hot spring water pumped from a depth of 1400 meters. Restaurants, massage, games and other entertainment, as well as overnight stays are available.
Destination: Mori Tower
A 54-story skyscraper, named after the man and company that built it. The first six floors are occupied by shops and restaurants, while the top six floors house an art museum and observation deck. Offices fill the 43 floors in between. The Mori Tower is one of the tallest buildings in Tokyo and a characteristic feature of the city's skyline.
Destination: Tokyo City View
Located at the top of the Mori Tower, the Tokyo City View observation deck has high ceiling and glass walls that extend all the way around the building, giving visitors views of the entire city. Additionally, Sky Deck is an open-air rooftop deck that can be accessed when the weather permits.
Destination: Mori Art Museum
With a focus on art that is both contemporary and international, the Mori Art Museum presents innovative exhibitions of modern art. The museum makes a point of keeping the art easily accessible to the general viewing public, rather than making it overly obscure or esoteric.
Destination: Roppongi Hills Shopping and Dining
Roppongi Hills features more than 200 shops, cafes and restaurants. Most shops specialize in fashion, accessories, interior design and household goods, while restaurants offer a wide array of Japanese and international cuisine.
Destination: TV Asahi Headquarters
The headquarters of TV Asahi, one of Japan's private TV networks, is part of the Roppongi Hills complex. The spacious atrium is open to the public and features displays of current programs and a shop selling TV Asahi goods.
Destination: Mori Garden
A small oasis of greenery between the tall buildings of Roppongi Hills, the Mori Garden is built in the style of a traditional Japanese landscape garden. The garden has a number of cherry trees that make it a nice spot to enjoy the cherry blossom season in late March and early April.
Destination: Roppongi Hills
Opened in 2003, Roppongi Hills is a city within the city, providing residential space, offices and recreational facilities all within one building complex. Tourist attractions include shops, restaurants, a movie theater and the Mori Art Museum and Tokyo City View observation deck on the top floors of the 238 meter tall Mori Tower.
Destination: Tokyo Midtown
Another city within the city, Tokyo Midtown was opened in 2007 and offers similar residential, commercial and entertainment facilities as Roppongi Hills. The complex also has a museum, the Suntory Museum of Art, as well as stylish shops and restaurants. The top floors of the 248 meter Midtown Tower, the tallest building in Tokyo, make up the Ritz-Carlton Tokyo, one of the city's best hotels.
Destination: National Art Center Tokyo
Opened in early 2007, the National Art Center Tokyo (Kokuritsu Shin-Bijutsukan) is Japan's largest art museum. The museum maintains no permanent collection, but rather provides a venue for various, temporary exhibitions.
Destination: Roppongi Nightlife
Roppongi has been a popular nightlife district among foreigners for decades. Unlike other entertainment districts in Tokyo, it offers many restaurants, bars and clubs, which are easily accessible for foreigners or even cater specifically to the expat community.
Destination: World Bazaar
World Bazaar, located at the main entrance to the park, is a covered shopping arcade lined by shops and restaurants. The area is designed like an early 20th century American town and serves as the park's main shopping area where many guests stop on their way out of the park.
Destination: Tomorrowland
Tomorrowland explores the themes of outer space and future technologies. It is home to popular attractions such as Space Mountain, Star Tours and Buzz Lightyear's AstroBlasters.
Destination: Toontown
Toontown is a suburban toon neighborhood where the Disney characters live, work and play. Aimed at a younger audience, Toontown lets visitors meet Mickey at his house, play on Donald Duck's boat, check out Chip'n Dale's Treehouse and ride a kid sized rollercoaster.
Destination: Fantasyland
Fantasyland is based on the classic animated films by Disney and is home to the iconic Cinderella's Castle at the center of the park, as well as other characters and rides such as Peter Pan, Snow White, It's A Small World and Pooh's Hunny Hunt, an original Fantasyland attraction unique to Tokyo Disneyland.
Destination: Critter Country
Critter Country is home to Br'er Rabbit, Br'er Fox, Br'er Bear and the other characters from the Disney film "Song of the South". Here you can find the popular Splash Mountain log ride, as well as guided canoe tours on the Rivers of America.
Destination: Westernland
Westernland is themed after the US western frontier along the Rivers of America. The area is home to the popular rollercoaster Big Thunder Mountain, while Tom Sawyer Island is located out in the middle of the river.
Destination: Adventureland
Adventureland includes attractions that encompass the spirit of adventure. Here you can join a jungle cruise, explore the Swiss Family Treehouse, ride the Western River Railroad and sail with the Pirates of the Caribbean.
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Map
Kyoto to Hiroshima
Today, make your own way to railway station to take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima, the journey takes around 1h40 minutes. The rest of the day is free to enjoy at your own leisure.
Optional service:
1. Meet & Greet - Kyoto Station Departure Service
2. Meet & Greet - Hiroshima Station Arrival Service
RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima is a distinguished 4.5-star hotel centrally located in Hiroshima's Naka Ward. The hotel boasts 491 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, offering panoramic views of the city. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including five restaurants, a fitness center, an indoor pool, and one of the largest banquet halls in Hiroshima, accommodating up to 2,000 guests. Its prime location provides easy access to major attractions such as Hiroshima Castle, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Hiroshima
It may seem strange to hear the words Hiroshima holidays. Hiroshima is of course remembered as the place where, on 6th August 1945, the world’s first atomic bomb was deployed killing 140,000 people in the immediate explosion and aftermath. But those going an holiday to Hiroshima expecting to walk into rubble and ruin will be in for a surprise. Today, a Japan holiday in Hiroshima takes visitors to a reconstructed city which is bigger, brighter and more vibrant than ever before. The numerous museums, frequent festivals and over 4,000 bars and restaurants testify to the power of the human spirit to recover from even the most horrific tragedies.
Overview
Hiroshima is of course remembered as the place where, on 6th August 1945, the world’s first atomic bomb was deployed killing 140,000 people in the immediate explosion and aftermath. But those going an holiday to Hiroshima expecting to walk into rubble and ruin will be in for a surprise. Today, a Japan holiday in Hiroshima takes visitors to a reconstructed city which is bigger, brighter and more vibrant than ever before. The numerous museums, frequent festivals and over 4,000 bars and restaurants testify to the power of the human spirit to recover from even the most horrific tragedies.
Destination: From ashes to modern city
At 0815 on 6th August 1945 an American plane dropped a bomb known as little boy and the sky over Hiroshima ignited and glowed for a brief instant. As Hiroshima became as hot as the surface of the sun, the majority of the city was levelled instantly by the blast whilst the remained was set ablaze. Where once there was nothing but ashes as far as the eye could see, there now stands a modern city that still retains an old-world feel with its trundling trams and sunny disposition. A visit to the monuments that stand as a memory to the great tragedy are a must on any Hiroshima holiday in Japan.
Destination: Hiroshima World Heritage Sites
There are two World Heritage Sites to see during holidays in Hiroshima. One is Itsukushima Shrine and the other is the A-Bomb Dome of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial. Itsukushima Shrine is one of the most significant shrines in Japan, and the only shrine in the world which has a torii-gate and shrine building in the middle of the sea. Its view is considered one of the best three views in Japan. The A-Bomb Dome is the most symbolic building in Hiroshima City, where the first atomic bomb was dropped, and has been representing people's prayers for lasting peace.
Destination: Holidays to Hiroshima are a gateway to several islands
Poised on the coast at the western end of the Inland Sea, Hiroshima is also the jumping-off point for several islands, including Miyajima, home of the beautiful shrine Itsukushima-jinja. The view out to the red torii gate standing in the shallows in front of the shrine is rightly one of Japan’s most celebrated, and although the island is often swamped by day-trippers it’s a delightful place to spend the night.
Destination: The Rainy Season
From early June until the middle of July, Hiroshima rainfall is at its highest. This rainy season may be a little inconvenient at times, but should not prevent you visiting at this time of the year, since fine weather is often only just around the corner.
Destination: Summer Holiday in Japan
Whilst the summer climate in Hiroshima may be a little too hot for some, others enjoy the sunny weather and high temperatures. Light clothing is a necessity during the humid summer months, although a fold-up umbrella may also prove useful at times. The Inland Sea becomes especially appealing in the summer and the warm water is perfect for swimming.
Destination: Rain again
Annually, the northern area of the Hiroshima prefecture tends to experience more rainy weather, with precipitation levels of around 1,700 mm / 66 inches, when compared to around 1,500 mm / 59 inches in the more southerly areas.
Destination: Winter Japan holidays
The winter climate in Hiroshima may be fairly mild, but gusty winds can make many of the days feeler much cooler. Even snowy weather along the coastline is by no means unheard of. However, spring is never far away, and by the time that March arrives, the flower buds in the plum and cherry trees soon begin to burst into life and the clear sunny skies arrive once more.
Destination: Mysterious scenery in the morning and evening
Itsukushima Shrine is lit up at night. The shrine's red color shines brightly and has a solemn beauty. Also, the shrine's graceful scenery in the sacred atmosphere in the morning is magnificent and you cannot miss it. To watch these two impressions, we recommend that you stay in Miyajima island. There are many traditional Japanese inns called ryokan in Miyajima and you can choose either a Western style or Japanese style room.
There are ryokans where you can enjoy cuisine with local food or a spa as well as a room with no meals. There are also many other great points from which to choose a ryokan. Please enjoy a graceful time and have a good impression of the shrine.
Destination: Visit solemn temples
MiyajimaIn Miyajima, there are many temples as well as Itsukushima Shrine. When you exit the shrine, you can see Daiganji Temple, which had craftsmen repair Itsukushima Shrine from the 13th century to the Meiji Restoration.
Among 4 Buddha statues, Yakushinyoraizazou was created by Kuukai (who is also known as Kouboudaishi, one of the most famous priests in Japanese history) in the 10th century.
In the hill on the left of Itsukushima Shrine, there are the Five-Storied Pagoda and Senjyokaku. The Five-Storied Pagoda built in 1407 is brilliant vermillion-colored and the atmosphere is really gorgeous. It was built with Zen Buddhism construction techniques introduced from China. Senjyokaku, which is adjacent to the pagoda, was founded by Hideyoshi Toyotomi, who unified Japan in the age of provincial wars to hold a memorial service for war dead in 1587. However, it is left unfinished due to Hideyoshi's death. The gold leaf is painted on the tiles of the building. If the work had been completed, the entire temple would be painted in magnificent gold leaf.
There is another sightseeing spot, Daishouin, which is located to the west of Itsukushima Shrine by a 10-minute walk. It is said that Kuukai (Kouboudaishi) created this temple in 806 after 100 days of ascetic training in Misen. Daishouin had conducted festival events of Itsukushima Shrine until the Meiji Restoration that changed all kinds of fields including politics, education, economy, and religion. Many Buddha statues and Mido (temple halls) are enshrined in the spacious premises and many great people had worshiped and visited here since ancient times. Also, there are an array of shrines and temples worth visiting such as Kiyomori Shrine and the treasure hall. If you visit these spots with a map, you can feel that Miyajima has been the object of worship for people.
Destination: Sublime and attractive nature and four seasons' beauty of Misen
The vast extent of site is mostly covered by virgin forest where many kinds of plants live only in Miyajima, and 431.2 hectares of the site is included in the World Heritage Site.
You can go to the top of Mt. Misen (535 meter above sea level) by a cable car and on foot, and it is very good to climb while enjoying trekking on foot. On the top, there is a group of giant rocks and you can enjoy the view of the scenic Seto Inland Sea from the viewing platform.
In Miyajima, which is believed to be a divine island from ancient times and where rich nature is left undeveloped, you can enjoy the various seasonal impressions of beautiful scenery such as cherry blossoms in spring and red leaves in autumn.
Destination: Walk, taste and experience
Omote-Sando is the main street from the port to Itsukushima Shrine and there are a lot of souvenir shops on both sides of the street. You can enjoy souvenir shopping for an artwork such as Shamoji, a rice scoop, well-known Momiji manju, a bun with a bean-jam filling made from maple leaves, and other crafts. It is unique pleasure in Miyajima to taste fresh Momiji manju in the storefront across the street. Also, there are many restaurants which offer well-known conger eel and grilled oysters. They satisfy visitors' appetites. Furthermore, there is Machiya (traditional townhouses) Street in the back street.
There are many ateliers, cafes and restaurants, and you can feel the atmosphere from ancient times. If you would like to enjoy Miyajima more proactively, a sea kayak is recommended. You can paddle all the way around Miyajima while seeing the Torii, the sacred Shinto gateway, and enjoying the landscape of Miyajima from the sea. Please enjoy yourself to your heart's content.
Destination: A beautiful and tranquil space surrounded by water and greenery
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is located at the center of Hiroshima City, but remains a quiet and spacious place. It is difficult to imagine that this triangle shaped piece of land bordered by two rivers was once a busy commercial and residential downtown area. The atomic bomb eliminated everything in the town. After World War II, A group led by a Japanese architect named Kenzo Tange designed the park to turn the land into the Peace Memorial Park It was completed in 1954. There are many buildings and monuments which commemorate people who lost their lives at that time and also represent the people's prayers for peace, such as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph and the Statue of the A-Bomb Children, etc. By imagining the contrast between the misery of the atomic bomb attack and the beauty and tranquility in the park while visiting spots in the park, we are moved to appreciate how precious peace is. The park is also known for its beautiful cherry blossoms. Over 300 cherry trees are found along the Motoyasu River which flows along the side of the park, many people visit to see cherry blossoms every spring. People enjoy river cruises on the Motoyasu River to see the park and the A-Bomb Dome from the river.
Destination: Prayers for peace from all over the world
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park holds the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony on August 6th every year. Speeches by the Japanese Prime Minister, the Mayor of Hiroshima City, the representatives of local children are given, and then, a one-minute silence for the victims is observed at 8:15, the time of the explosion. Many people from all over the world attend the ceremony as well as pray in front of the Memorial Cenotaph and the Statue of the A-Bomb Children from early morning onward. In the evening, small lanterns are lit and floated downstream on the Motoyasu River alongside the park. The fire used for the lanterns is called the "Embers of the Atomic Bomb" which has been preserved by a person who experienced the bomb attack. Messages to console the souls of the dead and desire for peace are written on the lanterns. The view of hundreds of them flowing down the river is very mesmerizing. Recently we see many foreigners also participating in this event.
Destination: What has been the outcome of the atomic bomb attack?
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is located in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. By standing on the Peace Boulevard side, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph, the Peace Flame and the A-Bomb Dome can be seen along a straight line. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which opened in 1955, gives people an opportunity to learn of the outcome of the bomb attack and consider what peace really means through many reference materials. The East Wing exhibits photographs, panels, videos and panorama models showing the actual history of Hiroshima before and after the bomb attack. The main building exhibits victims' belongings and references which show the misery of the bomb attack. You will see a burnt lunch box, a tricycle which a 3-year-old boy was riding, etc., which reflect the instantaneous destruction and strike right at the heart of visitors. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum was designed by a group headed by Kenzo Tange, who also designed the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. The strength of humanity rising up from the ruins is expressed in the piloti-style space under the main building. People visit the museum throughout the year and should be moved to a desire not to repeat the same misery anymore and consider deeply whether atomic weapons currently present are really necessary or not for our future.
Destination: Yamato Museum
This museum introduces the "history of Kure" which represents the modern Japanese history after Meiji era, and each kinds of "science technology" including shipbuilding and iron manufacture industry, focusing on the effort of our ancestors and their life/culture. Inside the building, the 1/10 scale battleship "Yamato" is exhibited. The bottle plane on the zero-type ship at the large resource room, the manned torpedoes called "Kaiten" (a suicide weapon), and the submersible research vehicle called "Kairyu"are all actual artifacts. The submersible research vehicle "shinkai" is displayed in the outside. A lawn Park and a park designed with a same size of "Yamato" are installed at the place.
Destination: Garasu-no-sato (Glass Village)
This glass museum has great selections of glass, from precious ancient glasses of the B.C. 15th century to the glasses, which were used on a daily basis from Edo era to early Showa era, is exhibited. There is Modern World Glass Art Museum exhibiting the artworks performed by glass-craft artists of the world, and other types of museum like World Beads Museum, Glass Castle, World Glass Museum, and some restaurants are there. You can experience various glass makings, including a muddler making in using a gas burner, sandblast, hand gravure, glass blowing, stained glass, and Shippo-yaki. At beads shop, the product lineup consists of more than 10,000 kinds of beads, known as one of the largest beads shop in the country. They have some other collections of beads related to fancy works.
Destination: Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art
Standing on Hijiyama hill, a part of the park above the city, this museum opened in 1989 as the first modern Art museum of the city. The basic themes of the collections are; (1) primary art works that shows the history of modern art after the Second World War (2) fine art works showing the relation between Hiroshima and modern art (3) fine art works by potential young artists.
Destination: Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum
In 1986, after renovating old facilities and its contents, the museum reopened as an urban-type museum with good amenities, concentrating on forming a balanced picture with the adjacent lush green "Shukkei-en", a nationwide famous garden. The museum possesses and exhibits several pieces of art works associated with Hiroshima prefecture, Japanese/Asian art crafts, and other displays featuring art works created in the 1920s-30s period. The museum owns over 3500 pieces.
Destination: Honkawa Elementary School Peace Museum
Honkawa Elementary School located within 410m of the burst point, the closest place to the center of the explosion was one of the worst hit places. Although the bombed building had been repeatedly maintained and repaired, most of buildings had been taken away during the renovation of school building except for parts of the bombed building and the base-ground. The remaining parts and the basement had been maintained and preserved then opened in May 1988 as "The Peace Museum". The school was featured in a graphic novel called "Hadashi-no-Gen" drawn by Keiji Nakazawa who studied at this Honkawa Elementary School.
Destination: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum has continuously appealed for the elimination of nuclear armaments and the realization of permanent world peace. It is divided into east building and main building. At the east building, the history of Hiroshima (Hiroshima-no-ayumi) dealing with the A-bomb exposure period is presented through picture panels, films, and figures concerning factors related to the historical background at the time. In the main building, the museum shows the devastation caused by the atomic bomb in detail. Peace Memorial Park, in which this museum is located, is known as a famous cherry blossom viewing site.
Destination: Itsukushima Shrine
This shrine is among the best in Japan with the superb architectural beauty of its bold and unique structure centered on the sea built in the elegant Shinden Zukuri architectural style. The shrine was built in its current form by Kiyomori Taira in the 12th century. The contrast with the greenery in the background is extraordinarily beautiful. Itsukushima Shrine was registered as a world heritage site in 1996 (Heisei 8). There are many cherry trees around the shrine, so many visitors come here in spring to enjoy the blossoms.
Destination: Buttsuji Temple
In 1937, Kobayakawa Haruhira constructed this temple, inviting a Buddhism master Guchu Shukyu who received special Buddhism training in China. He opened this mountain against five big temple mountains in Kyoto. It is the only great headquarter within West Japan. It has been known as one of the best Zen schools, and many people, from corporations and schools, are lately using this temple as a training institute. A group of temples stand in a row in the property, surrounded by a cedar grove. In fall season, the site becomes crowded with lots of visitors visiting to admire the beautiful scenery.
Destination: Senkoji Temple
The temple is said to have been founded in 806, the first year of the Daido era. The vermillion-lacquered main hall is also called the Red Hall and, together with the bell tower famous for chimes on New Year's Eve, is a symbol of Onomichi. The big rock beside the main hall, Tama no Iwa, is said to have been a landmark for voyages due to a shining gem placed on it in the past.
Destination: Shukkeien Garden
Shukkeien Garden was originally built in 1620 by Ueda Soko, a renowned master of the tea ceremony, as a villa garden for Asano Nagaakira, a feudal lord of Hiroshima. The garden's name literally means contracted scenic beauty, which is said to have been modeled after Xi Hu (West Lake) in Hangzhou, China. In 1940 (Showa 15), it was designated as a National Scenic Spot and famous for its beautiful plum trees and cherry blossoms.
Destination: National Bihoku Hills Park
This is the 11th national park in Japan, and the first in the Chugoku region. The park has an Indoor Square with an information center, kiosks and a dining room; the Hiba no Sato with splendid views of the Chugoku Mountains and reproduced residences, farmhouses with thatched roofs, a kagura (shinto music) hall, craft centers and gardens; the 3 hectare Flower Square where approximately 70 kinds of flowers blossom between spring and autumn; the Forest Athletic Course with 39 different sets of equipment; a 4.6 km long Cycling Course; Disc Golf Course; the Tsudoi no Sato for playing golf and enjoying cherry blossoms; and the 8-hectare Great Lawn Square.
Destination: Sankeien Garden
This is a 6 ha (60.000sq.m.) large traditional Japanese style garden called "Chisenkai-yushiki Teien". It was constructed to celebrate the opening of Hiroshima Airport. It was designed to look like mountains/canyons of Hiroshima, and the scenery of Seto Inland Sea, and is divided into three different zones; the mountain zone that takes advantage of its nature, the country zone, and the ocean zone. 95 kinds of Japanese Irises and roughly 10,000 flower plants fully bloom in June. The number of observers is increasing year after year. In autumn, a "Maple festival" is held at the place.
Destination: Hiroshima Prefectural Mominoki Forest Park
This natural park is equipped with various facilities over an area of 400 hectares at an elevation between 900 and 1,100 meters. Nature welcomes you during every season, and you can enjoy forest bathing, sports, field athletics and barbecues to their full extent. The park is conveniently located and popular among families and groups all year round. The park also has an motor camping site and a cycling course.
Destination: Rekishi-no-mieru-oka-koen Park
Designated as an important traditional constructions preserve district, the park was established on a hill above the district. Besides the scenery of Mitarai district, Kurushima-kaikyo, and Shikoku Mountain Range, you can also enjoy seeing some seasonal scenes from the sidewalk across the orange field.
Destination: Hot springs of Miyajima Island
There are several hot springs on Miyajima Island. Most of them are equipped within the ryokans or hotels of the island. Some hot springs offer a day package of bathing and a meal for day visitors, not to mention for hotel guests. It is perfect to ease the fatigue and refresh yourself after walking around Miyajima. Please savor the blissful moment at hot springs of Miyajima.
Destination: Nukui Springs
This spa resort hotel by Nukui Dam was opened in 1992. The spa water is from a cold well with simple weak radium, effective against neuralgia, fatigue, chronic digestive diseases, excessive sensitivity to cold and high blood pressure. A sauna and a bubble bath are also available. Next to the spa resort are all-weather tennis courts covered in sand grass, the Nukui Natural Ecological Park, and Nukui Dam.
Destination: Takamiya Yunomori Hot Spring
These facilities were reborn as a result of a redevelopment of the Daisen no Yu Spa with more than 100 years of history and used by customers for hot spring therapy since historical times. The spa is a natural radon spa that is said to be effective against skin diseases and eye problems; you can enjoy eight varieties - an open-air spa with sake made from local specialty sake rice, an open-air rock spa, an open air cypress bath, a unique bucket shower, a lie-down bath, an herbal bath, a sauna, etc. The facilities include not only hotel accommodations but also a restaurant and rooms for relaxation, conferences and banquets. Built on a low hill in the Harada district, you can see the beautiful countryside.
Destination: Miharashi Hot Spring
This hot-spring is proud of its highest temperature of 45.1 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) among spas located in Hiroshima,. You can see the view of Seto Inland Sea right across Route 185, and the bath with the view is very popular. There are Sauna and over 10 kinds of bathtubs. You can spend the whole day relaxing at the big amusement spot. Also, the guests can enjoy both water by staying at the hotel overnight as owners change the mens' and women's bath place with each other, in making the arrangement depends on whether it's an odd day or an even day. There is also an open-air spa on the top, facing the ocean. Another hot-spring hotel for long-stay guests called "Yume-no-Yado" (Dream Inn) is open adjacent to this Miharashi hot spring.
Destination: Miyahama Hot Spring
This is a quiet spa with four inns and hotels, built on a low hill along ROUTE 2, has a view of the Inland Sea. The spa type is cold simple weak radium. These inns and hotels are popular in the Hiroshima and Iwakuni areas. You can enjoy small fresh fish from the Inland Sea and sake brewed in Hiroshima together with the splendid view of Miyajima Island. Especially delicious are oysters caught in the Ono no Seto in front of the spa, and you can enjoy an oyster dinner during the oyster season.
Destination: Megahira Hot Spring
This modern resort lets you enjoy a high-quality relaxing time with its spa, cuisine and rooms. The Kur Garden Spa is a mixed bathing area where all customers are requested to wear a bathing suit and is good for groups and families. In particular, one of our specialties is an open-air spa with a bathtub made from a large 45,000 year old tree. The restaurant serves seasonal Japanese-style cuisine unique to the Yoshiwa area. It is best to stay overnight here for a relaxed time. You can relax in the comfort of the woods in Japanese-style, mixed-style and Western-style rooms. Don't miss our Kaiseki-gozen, Japan's tea ceremony dishes, for dinner. A banquet service is also available for day trips.
Destination: Yuki Hot Spring
It was reported that it was discovered 1,500 years ago. There is a fringe of inns along the bank of river. You can enjoy the singing of the deer and flying fireflies. This hot spring is proud to be the water with the highest radium level, and its abundant nature. It is also known as "Hiroshima's Okuzashiki (guest room)". It has been designated as National Recreational Hot Spring Resort of Ministry of Welfare since Showa 30. It has been used as a primary accommodation facility for visitors traveling to places like Hiroshima, Iwakuni, Sandan-kyo gorge, and other cities. There're four accommodations in this hot spring.
Destination: Yu-no-yama Hot Spring
Discovered 1170 years ago, it's a traditional hot spring, and used to flourish as a health-promoting Spa used by Hiroshima's territorial lord, Asano. It has been designated as the National Recreational Hot Spring Resort of the Ministry of Environment in 1972 and as a Significant Intangible Folk Cultural Asset of The Country in 1974. In July 1994, a multipurpose hot spring resort called "Kurhaus Yunoyama", taking advantage of its natural spring and its history, was opened. The place became crowded and became famous as a health promoting place. There're two accommodations.
Destination: Rest House of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
The Rest House is another bombed building inside Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park than A-Bomb Dome. Today the house is served as a rest house and information center of the park, but originally it used to be a kimono shop built in 1929. A man who survived the bomb in the basement of the building was the closest survivor to the hypocenter. The building itself still has the trace of those times, and the basement has been preserved as it was at the time of exposure. If you make an advance booking, you can see the basement. Please do visit the Rest House when you come to Peace Memorial Park.
Destination: Miyajima Machiya Street
Behind the Omote-Sando shopping street with a lot of visitors going and coming around souvenir shops is a backstreet called Machiya Street. It is a nostalgic avenue with old townscape and preserves the atmosphere of past epoch. There are cafes and art galleries renovated from old folk houses lining the street. If you just walk the street, you would feel as if you stepped back in time. Please take a leisurely stroll around this area, and you could feel the history and culture of Miyajima Island.
Destination: Tomonoura
Tomonoura is an old port town located in Fukuyama City with more than 1000 years of history. For a long time the port has supported the town as a transportation crossroad of various industries, and it still has the same picture today. The night-light and stepped pier of the harbor have been conserved since Edo Period (1603-1867) and they are actually used as they have been. Around the harbor area is the townscape preserved since those times, drawing droves of tourists strolling along the atmospheric streets. One of the popular souvenirs of Tomonoura is Homei-shu. It is medical liquor famous in this area and said to be effective for sensitivity to cold and fatigue. Taicho-ro which is located next to Fukuzen-ji Temple is a guesthouse built in Edo Period. The picturesque view of the ocean from the house was so marvelous that a Korean envoy marked it as "the most beautiful scenery in Japan". Please take time wandering around Tomonoura and feel the atmosphere and smell of the port town with rich history.
Destination: Statue of Mother and Child in the Storm
It is the original work performed by Hongo Shin, a sculptor who has been making a number of monuments including " Wadatsumi's statue" all of which are highly expressive of human love, It was founded by Hiroshima City Ladies Union in August 5th of 1960. The bronze statue is the image of a mother, who is trying to overcome difficulties, clinging her child while covering another baby with her left hand.
Destination: Peace Bell
This bell has been constructed by "A-bomb Victims Hiroshima Higankessho-no-kai Union" on September 20th, 1964. They carved a world map with no borer lines on the bell. This world map symbolizes the slogan of "One world". The bell was designed in a form of a logo expressing the need to ban atomic and hydrologic power, and on the opposite side of the bell, there is a mirror which reflects the inside of one's heart to the sound of the bell. The sound of the bell has been selected as "Japan's best 100 sounds" by Ministry of Environment in 1996.
Destination: Old Bank of Japan Hiroshima Branch
Hiroshima branch of old Japan Bank is founded in the center of the city. The building was established in August 1936 and bears the damages of the war to this very present day. The building stands near ground zero, at a distance of 380m. The strong building structure enabled the bank to sustain its original structure almost perfectly. When the Hiroshima branch moved to Moto town in March 1992, the building was selected as an important cultural property of Hiroshima city. While the bank is engaged in preservation projects and practicing the use of the building, the building is also used to hold events.
Destination: Hiroshima Castle
Hiroshima castle is a typical flat castle that was constructed by Mori Terumoto, who was one of the most significant servants ("Godairo") of Hideyoshi Toyotomi. Fukushima family and later Asano family lived there during the Edo era. This castle tower was designated as National Treasure in 1931 (Showa 6). It was destroyed by atomic bomb. Later, the exterior of the castle was renovated in 1958 (Showa 33). In 1989 (Heisei 1st), the inside was restored. Today, it has turned into a history museum featuring Samurai culture.
Destination: Flame of Peace
This fire of hope for eternal world peace designed by Tange Kenzo who was the professor of Tokyo University back then has never burned out since August 1st, 1964. The pedestal was designed to suggest two hands pressed together at the wrist and bent back so that the palms point up to the sky. It has become the symbol of Anti-nuclear weapons, sending the following message: "Let's keep burning the fire until nuclear weapon is eliminated from the entire earth".
Destination: Islands
The Seto Inland Sea is very calm like as a lake and you can see a large number of islands. It is warm and dry around this aria, The Seto Inland Sea is sometimes called “the Aegean Sea in Japan”, and the products of citrus fruits prospered. Especially Hiroshima is the best harvest of lemons in Japan. As for Miyajima Island, the Itsukushima shrine is in, so more than three million people visit here per year. The Innoshima Island is in Onomichi-city and it is rare that we can see the only one castle that was built by the Murakami-suigun pirates in the medieval times. And then, the nearest island from the Hiroshima port is the Etajima Island. There are the fields of mikan, the Japanese citrus and mikan picking is popular in autumn. Also, there is the old building of the once Japan Imperial Naval Academy and you can visit and see inside.
Destination: Islands along Shimanami Kaido
Shimanami Kaido is a 59.4 kilometer-long expressway for cars equipped with a walkway for pedestrians and bicycles. It connects six islands floating on Seto Inland Sea. The road starts from Onomichi City to Mukai-shima, which is in front of Onomichi City, then to Innno-shima and Ikuchi-jima, then enters Ehime Pref. to Omi-shima, Hakata-jima, O-shima and leads to Shikoku Island. Each island is connected with unique bridges with different shapes. Visitors can enjoy a sweeping view of Seto Inland Sea from observatories, and also this is a perfect course for cycling . Each island along the course is blessed with mild climate thanks to surrounding ocean, but has different attractions and sights.
Destination: Getting There
Hiroshima Airport (IATA: HIJ) [5] connects to domestic destinations in Japan. Both ANA and JAL offer flights from Tokyo Haneda and Sapporo Chitose airports. ANA also offers flights from Narita, Sendai and Okinawa. There are direct international flights from Dalian, Guam, Shanghai, Seoul, and Taipei.
Hiroshima is a major station on the JR West [6] Sanyo Shinkansen line. It is roughly 40 minutes from Okayama (¥5350) and 90 minutes from Shin-Osaka (¥9440). Tokyo is four hours away via Nozomi (¥17,540) and five hours via Hikari.
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Hiroshima FD with Miyajima
Discover more of the ancient and more recent history of ‘the city of water’, Hiroshima on this unique day tour. This morning, meet your guide before transferring by public transit to Memorial Peace Park. Hiroshima’s tribute to its tragic past and hopes for the future. Visit the Peace Memorial Museum next, whose exhibits display artefacts and photographs of the bombing and its aftermath. Despite the severity of the subject, the museum itself is not about being divisive or placing blame, but serves as a reminder not to take peace for granted. Once finished, have some free time for lunch before riding the train to the ferry to cross the shoreto Miyajima Island. This island is an ancient holy site, a sacred and beautiful national treasure of Japan. Featuring stunning Shinto shrines, Buddhist pagodas and temples, spectacular natural beauty, and charming Edo-style walkways, the island offers a slice of ancient Japanese culture. Arrive at the main complex Itsukushima shrine, a lovely family Shinto shrine founded in the 6th century. At high tide, it appears to be floating above the water, in addition to its floating torii gate, the iconic Otorii. This massive gateway is one of the most photographed structures in Japan. You’ll have free time to explore more of the Island now. Pass tame wild deer who wander the island freely, as you venture along the charming pathways. You can wander to Daisho-in, a Buddhist temple with a trail of hundreds of happy Buddha statues leading the way. Afterwards, make some time to stop and shop at the charming souvenir shops in town, or try some local delicacies. The island has farmed oysters for over 300 years, so be sure to try some. Or, sample some maple leaf castellas filled with red bean paste, a classic snack unique to the island. Now it’s time to bid farewell to Miyajima and return to the mainland, before heading back to your hotel.
RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima is a distinguished 4.5-star hotel centrally located in Hiroshima's Naka Ward. The hotel boasts 491 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, offering panoramic views of the city. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including five restaurants, a fitness center, an indoor pool, and one of the largest banquet halls in Hiroshima, accommodating up to 2,000 guests. Its prime location provides easy access to major attractions such as Hiroshima Castle, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Miyajima
Miyajima holidays take you to a small island less than an hour outside the city of Hiroshima. Holidays to Miyajima are most famous for the giant torii gate, which at high tide seems to float on the water. The sight is ranked as one of Japan's three best views. While officially named Itsukushima, the island is more commonly referred to as Miyajima, Japanese for "shrine island". This is because the island is so closely related to its key shrine, Itsukushima Shrine, in the public's mind. Like the torii gate, the shrine's main buildings are built over water.
Overview
While officially named Itsukushima, the island is more commonly referred to as Miyajima, Japanese for "shrine island". This is because the island is so closely related to its key shrine, Itsukushima Shrine, in the public's mind. Like the torii gate, the shrine's main buildings are built over water. A holiday in Miyajima is romantic, best enjoyed by staying overnight at one of the island's ryokan. While there are usually many day tourists on holiday in Miyajima, during the evening the area becomes much quieter and more peaceful. There are also wild deer on the island that have become accustomed to people. In the day the deer wander around the same sites as the tourists, and in the evening they sleep along the walking paths.
Destination: The island where God dwells
Miyajima is believed to be the island where God dwells. It is said that Itsukushima Shrine is built in the coast because the whole island is believed to be God's body and is sanctified. Itsukushima Shrine was built in the end of sixth century and modified to the present building with its solemn appearance by Kiyomori Taira, who came into power for the first time as a warrior in 1168. It is located in the sea and has a bold structure because the shape changes by the rising and falling tide. Also, the scenery combined with the vermillion-lacquered shrine building, green virgin forest on the back and the blue sea duly symbolizes the Japanese sense of beauty. The beautiful scenery never ceases to attract visitors.
Destination: Mysterious scenery in the morning and evening
Itsukushima Shrine is lit up at night. The shrine's red colour shines brightly and has a solemn beauty. Also, the shrine's graceful scenery in the sacred atmosphere in the morning is magnificent and you cannot miss it. To watch these two impressions, we recommend that you stay in Miyajima island. There are many traditional Japanese inns called ryokan in Miyajima and you can choose either a Western style or Japanese style room.
There are ryokans where you can enjoy cuisine with local food or a spa as well as a room with no meals. There are also many other great points from which to choose a ryokan. Please enjoy a graceful time and have a good impression of the shrine.
Destination: Sublime and attractive nature
The vast extent of site is mostly covered by virgin forest where many kinds of plants live only in Miyajima, and 431.2 hectares of the site is included in the World Heritage Site. You can go to the top of Mt. Misen (535 meter above sea level) by a cable car and on foot, and it is very good to climb while enjoying trekking on foot. On the top, there is a group of giant rocks and you can enjoy the view of the scenic Seto Inland Sea from the viewing platform. MiyajimaOmote-Sando is the main street from the port to Itsukushima Shrine and there are a lot of souvenir shops on both sides of the street. You can enjoy souvenir shopping for an artwork such as Shamoji, a rice scoop, well-known Momiji manju, a bun with a bean-jam filling made from maple leaves, and other crafts. It is unique pleasure in Miyajima to taste fresh Momiji manju in the storefront across the street. Also, there are many restaurants which offer well-known conger eel and grilled oysters. They satisfy visitors' appetites. Furthermore, there is Machiya (traditional townhouses) Street in the back street.
There are many ateliers, cafes and restaurants, and you can feel the atmosphere from ancient times. If you would like to enjoy Miyajima more proactively, a sea kayak is recommended. You can paddle all the way around Miyajima while seeing the Torii, the sacred Shinto gateway, and enjoying the landscape of Miyajima from the sea. Please enjoy yourself to your heart's content.
Destination: Getting There
Miyajima can be reached by sea from Hiroshima. The main ferry terminal on the mainland is Miyajimaguchi, which can be reached from JR Hiroshima station either by train or tram line. From Miyajimaguchi, ferries run to Miyajima up to 10 times per hour. The trip takes 10 minutes.
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Departure from Hiroshima – Osaka Airport
Check out from your hotel and make your own way to railway station to take the Shinkansen back to Shin-Osaka and then be transferred to the Airport by shared transportation. Say goodbye to the beautiful Japan and we wish you a safe flight back home. Sayonara!
Optional service:
1. Meet & Greet Shin Osaka Station Transfer Assistant Support (2hrs)
RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima is a distinguished 4.5-star hotel centrally located in Hiroshima's Naka Ward. The hotel boasts 491 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, offering panoramic views of the city. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including five restaurants, a fitness center, an indoor pool, and one of the largest banquet halls in Hiroshima, accommodating up to 2,000 guests. Its prime location provides easy access to major attractions such as Hiroshima Castle, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Osaka
Osaka is one of the largest cities in Japan and a popular travel destination, renowned for its delicious street food, lively atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage. Located on the island of Honshu, Osaka is a hub of commerce, transportation, and tourism. With its vibrant energy and unique blend of traditional and modern culture, Osaka is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Japan.
Osaka's history as a city dates back over a thousand years, and the city has played a significant role in the development of Japanese culture and commerce. Today, Osaka is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 19 million people, making it the third largest city in Japan. Despite its modernity, Osaka has not lost touch with its rich cultural heritage, and visitors will find plenty of opportunities to explore the city's rich history and traditions.
One of the most famous attractions in Osaka is its street food, which is considered some of the best in Japan. The city is famous for its takoyaki, a ball-shaped snack made of batter filled with diced octopus and topped with a variety of sauces and seasonings. Other local specialties include okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with vegetables, meat, and seafood, and kushikatsu, skewered meats and vegetables that are deep-fried and served with a variety of dipping sauces.
Another must-visit destination in Osaka is the Osaka Castle, which dates back to the 16th century. The castle has been restored to its former glory and is now a museum that houses exhibits about the history of the castle and the surrounding city. Visitors can take a tour of the castle grounds, including the inner keep and the castle tower, which offers panoramic views of the city.
Osaka is also home to several excellent museums, including the National Museum of Art, the Museum of Oriental Ceramics, and the Osaka Science Museum. These institutions provide a wealth of information about the city's history, culture, and artistic traditions, and are a great way to learn more about the city and its people.
For those who enjoy shopping, Osaka is a great place to find unique and locally-made products. The city is home to a variety of markets and shopping centers, including the popular Dotonbori shopping district, where visitors can find everything from traditional Japanese goods to the latest fashion and technology. Osaka is also known for its nightlife, with a thriving bar and nightclub scene that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Osaka is also a great place for outdoor activities, with several parks and gardens that offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Osaka Castle Park, for example, is a large park that surrounds the castle and offers a serene setting for a relaxing walk or picnic. Other popular outdoor destinations in Osaka include the Minoo Park, which features a beautiful waterfall, and the Osaka Bay Area, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities.
Overall, Osaka is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in food, history, culture, or just soaking up the atmosphere, Osaka is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Japan. So pack your bags and head to Osaka today to experience one of the most unique and dynamic cities in the world!
Overview
The phrase which means “are you making any money is fitting summary of the characteristic of the people of this ultra hard working. Osaka holidays may have received a bad press in the past, but the city has invested significant sums of public money in rebranding its touristic credentials. Holidays to Osaka are a great contrast to the fashion and trend obsessed Tokyo. The people of Osaka are friendly and welcoming, and, as you will find during your holiday in Osaka, the city is a vibrant metropolis where everyone is easy going.
Destination: A brief history of Osaka
Japan's third largest city has a population of 2.5 million and is its second most important. Osaka was once the capital city of Japan and the economic powerhouse of the Kansai region for many centuries. In the 16th century, Toyotomi Hideyoshi chose Osaka as the location for his castle at a time when the capital moved with the reign of each new emperor.
Destination: Exploring the city
Osaka has no shortage of tourists sites but the most interesting feature of all is the city itself. You may feel like your Osaka holiday has landed you in an endless expanse of concrete boxes, pachinko (pinball) parlours and elevated highways. You will however quickly discover during your holiday in Osaka, the city has some real architectural and cultural gems. This combined with the pretty riversides, energetic shopping districts and residents that know how to enjoy themselves makes holidays in Osaka a unique experience on any Japan holiday.
Destination: Simple but great food
Osaka is of course famous for being a great foodie city. The phrase kuidaore ('eat 'til you drop') is heard so frequently here that it's practically the city motto. Osakans however are not snobby about their food. One the of the great delicacies here is takoyaki which is grilled octopus dumplings and is usually sold as a street snack. Delicacies from okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes) to conveyor-belt sushi were invented here and continue to thrive.
Destination: Peak Season
April to May; July to August You’ll want to be in Osaka in April for cherry-viewing season and temperatures that climb to 60˚F, but so will everyone else. Other busy and expensive times include summer vacation (July and August); Oshogetsu (New Year) which lasts from December 27 to January 4; and Golden Week (a series of holidays from April 29 to May 5).
Destination: Off Season
January to mid-March; June Crowds and prices thin after Oshogetsu in January and before cherry season begins in mid-March. Due to the rainy season, June is another slow month. Expect the best hotel rates during these times. Winter temperatures rarely drop below 40˚F.
Destination: Shoulder Season
September to mid-December Autumn is a great time to visit Osaka as prices, not to mention humidity and temperatures, go down (though September is the peak season for typhoons). Visit during November and you can gaze upon the red autumn leaves during the fall season.
Destination: Dotonbori
Best seen at night, Dotonbori never truly closes with some restaurants open 24 hours.
One of Osaka's most popular tourist destinations, this street runs parallel to the Dotonbori canal. It is a popular shopping and entertainment district and is also known as a food destination. At night it is lit by hundreds of neon lights and mechanized signs, including the famous Glico Running Man sign and Kani Doraku crab sign.
Destination: Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade
Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade and the surrounding Shinsaibashi area is Osaka's premiere shopping center. Approximately 600 m long, this area is unique as it combines chain retail stores and trendy boutiques with expensive department stores and top designer fashion labels.
Destination: Amerikamura
Locally known as "Amemura," this shopping district is considered Osaka's counterpart to Harajuku and is a good place to see the cutting edge of teenage fashion and culture in Japan. It is a lively atmosphere that is populated with cafes, clothing stores, and thrift shops with a younger feel than the nearby Shinsaibashi.
Destination: Den Den Town
Located in the Nipponbashi area, Den Den Town is an electronics district comparable to Tokyo's Akihabara, and you may be able to bargain to a better deal. Den Den Town is becoming known as an otaku paradise with numerous manga and anime retailers as well as maid and cosplay cafes located there.
Destination: Namba Parks
Built to resemble a natural canyon, Namba Parks is designed to be a break of nature amidst the sprawling urban landscape. It features a 120 tenant shopping mall including a cinema, amphitheater, and a rooftop garden. The 6th floor is made up of numerous restaurants including some Korean, Italian, and Vietnamese places.
Destination: National Bunraku Theater
Bunraku performances are usually held in three week runs in January, April, June, July/August and November. Ticket prices vary by performance but typically range from 2000 to 6000 yen. Bunraku is similar to kabuki but performed using meter tall puppets. The National Bunraku Theater is considered the nation's most prestigious, and in addition to shows offers free seminars throughout the year. English earphones are available.
Destination: Shochikuza Theater
Kabuki performances are usually held in five runs per year, each lasting between three to four weeks. Ticket prices vary by performance but typically range from 4000 to 15000 yen. The Shochikuza Theater is the prime location to see kabuki performances in Osaka. It is a Western style theater that opened in 1923 and has a seating capacity of just over 1000. English headsets are unavailable at Shochizuka Theater, but English program books can be purchased at the information counter.
Destination: Hozenji Yokocho Alley
With Hozenji Temple at one end and with more than 60 traditional restaurants and izakaya along it's narrow path, this alley retains an old time atmosphere reminiscent of Kyoto's Pontocho. Be sure to visit Hozenji Temple where local merchants and visitors alike pour water over the temple's statues for luck.
Destination: Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum
This museum is the only one in the world to have a permanent Kamigata Ukiyoe exhibit. Kamigata Ukiyoe are woodblock prints from the Kyoto/Osaka region that typically feature portraits of kabuki actors. The third floor of the building is dedicated to rice growing and the roof has been converted to a wild rice field.
Destination: Osaka Station City
Opened in spring 2011, Osaka Station City is the transportation, shopping, entertainment and business complex that surrounds and includes JR Osaka Station. The station's lavish new design is represented by a giant glass roof high above the train platforms.
Destination: Grand Front Osaka
Opened in 2013, Grand Front Osaka is a newly developed district north of Osaka Station. Consisting of multiple, connected high rise buildings, the complex offer a wide variety of shops and restaurants, as well as offices, residential space, small parks and the Intercontinental Hotel Osaka. It is the first part of the Umekita redevelopment plan that will eventually see the entire former rail yard north of Osaka Station change into a modern city district.
Destination: Umeda Sky Building
Northwest of Osaka Station is Shin Umeda City, a building complex centering around the Umeda Sky Building, a spectacular 173 meter tall skyscraper opened in 1993 with an open-air observation deck on its roof. The skyscraper next to the Umeda Sky Building houses the Westin Osaka hotel.
Destination: Department Stores
There are a number of major department stores in the Kita area including Hankyu, Hanshin, Daimaru and Isetan Mitsukoshi. Some of the stores share their names with the local train companies as the trains and department stores belong to the same company groups.
Destination: HEP (Hankyu Entertainment Park)
HEP is a large shopping and entertainment complex consisting of the HEP FIVE and HEP Navio buildings, east of the Hankyu department store. HEP FIVE features a red Ferris wheel emerging from its roof, while the entire complex houses over 300 shops and restaurants.
Destination: Yodobashi Camera Umeda
This gigantic branch of the Tokyo based electronics retailer stocks almost every current item by the major camera manufacturers. Besides cameras you can find almost anything electronic, while the top floor offers restaurants with nice views of the city.
Destination: Kitashinchi District
For those who find the newly developed dining areas of Osaka Station City and Grand Front Osaka a little too modern and sterile, the Kitashinchi entertainment district, located south of and within walking distance of Osaka Station, provides a good alternative with its hundreds of restaurants, bars and night clubs.
Destination: North Gate Building
Newly constructed and opened in May 2011, the North Gate Building contains a shopping center, multi screen cinema complex, sports club and multiple attractive green spaces.
Lucua: The Lucua shopping complex occupies the bulk of the North Gate Building, featuring hundreds of specialty shops for the fashion and trend conscious on a dozen floors. The complex also offers a wide variety of restaurants on the top floor and in the basement.
Yawaragi no Niwa and Kaze no Hiroba: The Yawaragi no Niwa (Healing Garden) and Kaze no Hiroba (Wind Plaza) are two terraces on the 10th and 11th floor of the North Gate Building that offer small green spaces, views over northern Osaka and a few benches for taking a break.
Tenku no Noen: Tenku no Noen (Sky Farm) is a unique green space on the roof of the North Gate Building where various vegetables and fruits are grown. The rooftop is reached via multiple stairs from the 11th floor (no elevator or escalator is available), where benches and tables are provided for taking a break.
Destination: South Gate Building
Partly new, partly renovated, the South Gate Building contains a department store, the Hotel Granvia Osaka, a clinic and a little bit of recreational space.
Daimaru Department Store: The floor space of the Daimaru was greatly increased with the renovation and enlargement of the South Gate Building and now occupies 17 floors that offer a wide variety of goods and services, including a Pokemon Center, Uniqlo and Tokyu Hands branches and a restaurant floor.
Taiyo no Hiroba: Located on three terraces on the 15th, 16th and 17th floors on the south side of the South Gate Building, the Taiyo no Hiroba (Sun Plaza) receives sun during most of the day. It offers a few benches, a patio restaurant and views onto the high rise buildings of the Umeda district.
Destination: Tempozan Harbor Village
The Chuo Subway Line conveniently connects Tempozan Harbor Village with central Osaka in under 20 minutes. The district offers pleasant shopping and entertainment facilities. It is centered around Tempozan Marketplace, a medium sized mall around which the Ferris wheel and aquarium are located.
Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan): Kaiyukan's feature attraction is a massive tank that holds 5,400 tons of water and a whale shark. It is one of the world's largest tanks. In total, the aquarium displays a wide variety of marine life spread over 15 different tanks with over 11,000 tons of water.
Tempozan Ferris Wheel: The Tempozan Ferris Wheel is the city's largest. It offers far-reaching, panoramic views of the bay area and the city's skyscrapers beyond from a height of 112.5 meters. It is located just next to the Tempozan Marketplace and Osaka Aquarium.
Naniwa Food Theme Park: Naniwa Kuishinbo is a food theme park, located inside the Tempozan Marketplace shopping mall. Its stalls showcase Osaka's variety of native dishes and specialties, such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki, all set in a fun, old-style atmosphere.
Mount Tempozan: Mount Tempozan has the distinction of being Japan's smallest mountain. Its summit is 4.53 meters above sea level, and is located only a few steps from the Ferris wheel. The area has been developed into a small park with benches, walkways and green space.
Destination: Sakishima Island and Cosmo Square
Many of Sakishima Island's facilities are designed to accommodate business conferences and trade fairs. However, there also a few interesting attractions for regular tourists, such as the observation deck of the Sakishima Building and the shopping mall in the Asia Pacific Trade Center.
Cosmo Tower (formerly known as the World Trade Center): Sakishima Island's tallest building offers a spectacular observation deck on its 55th floor at 256 meters above ground. Restaurants and shops are found on the lower and top floors, while offices and conference rooms occupy the many floors in between.
Asia Pacific Trade Center: The Asia Pacific Trade Center is attached to a large mall with popular shopping and dining facilities. The site was designed to host business gatherings and host events, and has large conference facilities for this purpose.
Nanko Bird Sanctuary: The Bird Sanctuary was built on the northwestern corner of Sakishima Island to provide migratory birds with a stop-over location in the huge urbanized area of Osaka. The sanctuary has a building from which to watch and learn about birds.
Destination: Sakurajima Island
Sakurajima Island's main attraction is Universal Studios Japan, a popular theme park that opened in 2001.
Universal Studios Japan: Universal Studios Japan (USJ) features rides and shows based on some of the film studio's most popular films, including Spiderman, Jurassic Park, Terminator 2, Jaws and Shrek. The park has many themed restaurants and cafes, as well as shops offering unique souvenirs.
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Embark on an unforgettable 11-day journey through Japan’s most iconic destinations, blending ancient traditions with modern marvels.
Dee Burchmore
dee@deesglobalgetaways.co.uk
07400351073
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day journey through Japan’s most iconic destinations, blending ancient traditions with modern marvels.
Overview
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