These tours are great for first time visitors to Japan looking for comfortable accommodation with all entrance fees and most meals included. Our Japan Deluxe Tours are accomodated with professional tour guides, fluent in both Japanese and English, to ensure an educational and valuable visit. Air-conditoned, private coaches are also included, so you can enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free time in Japan. Our tours range from 7 to 21 days, to various regions of Japan.
These tours combine enrichment, enjoyment, and education with time to truly absorb and appreciate your surroundings. Our Deluxe-Plus small group tours are created to cater to those who are interested in having a deeper understanding of Japan's culture. You will have the opportunity to participate in culturally rich activities and visit destinations only locals may know. Experience luxurious hotels and travel at a leisurely pace when you book a Deluxe-Plus small group tour.
Explore the must-see sights and enjoy the hassle-free trip to Japan at an affordable price. Our most cost-effective way to see the highlights of Japan while staying in budget-friendly accommodations. If you would like to have a quick stop to sample the must-see sights of Japan, or plan to explore Japan on your own but would like to take a short trip to learn about Japan before your self-guided journeys. These are the tours for you.
Explore Japan off the beaten path via Japanese public transportation, walking, hiking, cycling and more. Take more time to enjoy local experiences and picturesque landscape. Our Active Small Group Tours combine the best of cultural destinations with off-the-beaten-path via Japanese public transportation, Discover the country of Japan the way the locals do and see Japan from a different angle. A focus on getting away from the crowds and into the real Japan, see the diversity of Japan’s countryside unfold before your eyes.
Single Supplement:
The price is per person, based on twin or triple room occupancy
For single travelers, this tour has a single supplement. This guarantees a single room throughout the tour
Prices are excluding international flights
Single Room
Single room types are rooms for
single room occupants.
One person will be occupying the
hotel room throughout the tour.
Twin Room
Twin room types are rooms set for two people who will occupy one room, but will have two separate beds.
Double Room
A double room is a room that has one bed for two people to share.
Triple Room
A triple room is one room where three people may share the same room. It has three separate beds.
Japanese Style Room
A Japanese-style room traditionally does not have a western-style bed, it is a tatami floor room with futon bedding. However, if you prefer a western-style bed, you may request one though we cannot guarantee it.
Please note: If you would like to request neighboring rooms next to your traveling companions, you and your traveling companions must have the same room types in order to be next to each other. For example, if you have requested a double room, but your traveling companions have requested a twin, or triple room, then neighboring rooms cannot be accommodated. However, if both you and your traveling companions match in room type, then neighboring rooms will likely be arranged for your convenience.
Visit the Japan you have only seen in Anime while on the Otaku Tour. This anime themed tour takes you to all the top anime sights that Japan is known for in Tokyo, Hakone, Takayama, Kyoto, and Osaka. But even more immersive are scenes from Japan we've hand-picked from popular anime, coupled with immersive Japanese experiences that give the anime- enthusiastic the feeling of venturing on an otaku pilgrimage. The itinerary adds the delightful atmosphere of Japan in springtime, bedecked in d... View More
Visit the Japan you have only seen in Anime while on
the Otaku Tour. This anime themed tour takes you to
all the top anime sights that Japan is known for in
Tokyo, Hakone, Takayama, Kyoto, and Osaka. But
even more immersive are scenes from Japan we've
hand-picked from popular anime, coupled with
immersive Japanese experiences that give the anime-
enthusiastic the feeling of venturing on an otaku
pilgrimage. The itinerary adds the delightful
atmosphere of Japan in springtime, bedecked in
delicate pink cherry blossoms.
Begin in Tokyo, with sightseeing and experiences that
belong on any anime fan's bucket list. The first sight is
Asakusa Sensoji - Tokyo's oldest temple, appearing in
a few animes. Then step into the world of Samurai
with a Samurai Kempu Experience, a workshop that
teaches the etiquette and history of these noble
warriors with authentic katana swords. Wander around
Akihabara - the crown jewel of anime culture, with
streets lined end-to-end with manga and anime shops,
retro video game stores, internet cafes, and thriving
arcades - with plenty of time for shopping. One Piece
Tokyo Tower beckons to all who enjoy the beloved
series, and the Ghibli Museum awakens the child at
heart, strolling through a Miyazaki-designed
fantasyland of childlike wonder. Learn the art of
drawing manga during a 2-hour experience at the
Manga School Nakano International, where a
professional artist gives a lesson on how to draw your
own panel. Other Tokyo experiences include visiting
the Shibuya Pokémon Center and the Unicorn
Gundam of Odaiba.
The tour continues to Hakone and its idyllic country
landscape. While here, embark on a pirate cruise
around Lake Ashi, and ascend to the fifth station of
Mount Fuji (weather permitting). Hakone also offers a
treat for fans of the anime Evangelion, at the Hakone
Yumoto Evangelion Shop. More anime-immersive
experiences await, as the tour heads to Lake Suwa
and Hida Furukawa - locations that inspired settings
from the hit anime movie, "Your Name". This regional
excursion includes an experience of Kumihimo - the
traditional braiding art featured in the anime. The tour
continues to Takayama, where guests can browse
around the Takayama Morning Market for a hand-
crafted souvenir. The next town, Seki, preserves
traditional techniques used to make Japanese swords
at the Traditional Swordsmith Museum. Then, at
Nagakute, stroll through Morikoro Park and see a
reconstruction of the house from My Neighbor Totoro.
On the way to Kyoto, the tour stops at the Iga-Ryu
Ninja Museum - a former ninja house complete with
secret passages and hidden rooms, which displays
authentic ninja implements and weapons. In Kyoto,
our guests will be able to admire the former imperial
capitals finest landmarks: Fushimi Inari Shrine, the
Golden Pavilion, Kiyomizu Temple, the Arashiyama
Bamboo Grove, and the Gion Geisha District. Nearby
Nara features Todaiji Temple and the Nara Deer Park,
where you can explore the enchanting forest scenery
surrounded by adorable Sika deer.
Finally, in Osaka, a city whose inhabitants are
caricatured in many anime, where we visit all its top
must-sees: Osaka Castle, Tsutenkaku Tower,
Nipponbashi Den Den Town (the Akihabara of West
Japan), and the Dotonbori District - center of Osaka's
street food culture. This tour can be customized with a
variety of additional attractions, including Ninja
Restaurant Akasaka and Sailor Moon Dinner Show.
Please note that optional experiences/attractions
mentioned below are not included in the cost. You
must pay for your own transportation costs and
entrance fees. Also, these attractions need advanced
reservation. Please inform your travel agent if you're
interested.
Start Date | End Date | Twin/Triple | Start City | End City | Style | Compare | Status |
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Please Note:
All prices are per person, based on twin (double on request) or triple occupancy.
International flights are not included on our tours - this allows you the flexibility to choose your own departure and get the best value for your money!
We can arrange international flights for US customers if needed, please ask for details.
We require US$200 deposit per person to hold the space at time of booking and the final payment is due 2 month prior to departure.
Travel by private coach between destinations, hassle free baggage handling.
Vegetarian or special meals can be arranged.
Please note that the meet and greet and airport transfer to the first hotel is ONLY available on the first day of the tour after 11 AM. If you plan to stay extra nights before the start of the tour, we will provide full instructions in advance for you to transfer to your hotel on your own.
Welcome to Tokyo! You will be met at the arrival gate by an AJT representative holding an "All Japan Tours" sign.
NOTE 1: If you wish to stay in the center of Tokyo for the first night instead of Hotel Mystays Premier Narita, we can arrange for you to stay at Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro (or similar class). In this case, airport transfer is not included. We will provide you directions to get to your hotel in advance, or we can arrange shared shuttle service for you at US$65.00 per person per way.
NOTE 2: If you will be flying into Haneda Airport (HND) instead of Narita International Airport (NRT), we can arrange for you to stay in the center of Tokyo (Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro or similar class) instead of Hotel Mystays Premier Narita. In this case, meet-and- greet and airport transfer are not included. We will provide with full instructions to get to the hotel in advance, or we can arrange shared shuttle service for you at US$60.00 per person per way.
NOTE 3: The meet-and-greet is ONLY available for flights arriving in Terminal 1 & 2 after 11:00 AM. For guests arriving in Terminal 3, airport pickup is not included, but we will provide you with directions to get to your hotel in advance.
NOTE 4: If you wish to stay extra nights before the tour starts, please contact us to book hotel accommodations.
After breakfast, the tour begins with a visit to Tokyo's
oldest temple, Asakusa Sensoji Temple. Famed for the
Kaminarimon (or "Gate of Thunder"), the massive red
paper lantern that hangs under the gate is a national
icon. It has appeared in numerous animes that have
school trips going to Tokyo. At the Tokyo Samurai
Kembu you will be able to experience a Japanese
traditional stage art that utilizes the katana (Japanese
sword). In 2015, the indoor One Piece Theme park
began its operations. It features various games,
entertainment rides, and a live show starring the cast
from the beloved series.
Optional - cost not included
Free for leisure in the evening or join your tour guide
experience a night completely immersed in ninja
culture at the Ninja Restaurant Akasaka. Unique
interior designs, ninja waiters, and cunningly-designed
cuisine come together for an unforgettable ninja dining
encounter.
The Ghibli Museum is design by Hayao Miyazaki as a
place of endless discovery. Where adults and children
can enjoy the wonderful displays and movie only
shown inside the museum. At the Manga School
Nakano International you will draw your very own
manga panel with the help of a professional in the
industry. The Shibuya crossing is known for thousands
of people passing through the crosswalk at one time.
The Pokemon Center in Shibuya features the
infamous Mew two and adorable Mew. There you can
get the unique graffiti style Pikachus only available at
this store.
Optional - cost not included
Free for leisure in the evening or join your tour guide
to Shining Moon Tokyo. Here, you can enter the
colorful world of Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon for
dinner and a stage show. You'll dine on cutesy Sailor
Moon-themed foods while a host of enduring
characters from the popular series, including the
famed Sailor Scouts, anime dance and entertain live
on-stage.
In front of the DiverCity shopping center there is the 19.7 meters tall Unicorn Gundam. At certain times of the day you can see it transform from unicorn to destroyer mode. In Akihabara we will tour around the area and show the history of how the place came to be. We will also pass by some iconic shops that will satisfy all your otaku needs. At the maid café you will be served by staff in maid outfits and experience what it is like to be in a themed café.
Mt. Fuji is one of the most sacred mountains in Japan it has appeared as a backdrop to many series. Characters traveling on the bullet catches glimpses of Mt. Fuji. Laid Back Camp anime features a scenic view of the mountain. Lake Ashi is located in Hakone where Evangelion took place. It usually appears with the lake and torii gate in the water. Neon Genesis Evangelion features scenes in the Hakone area. It is only fitting that the Hakone Yumoto Evengelion Shop, dedicated to the series, is present.
Lake Suwa is said to be the inspiration for the fictional town known as Itomori from the famed Your Name movie. Matsumoto Castle is one of the 12 original castles and is designated a national treasure. Here you will be able to see how a real castle in Japan looks. In Hida Furukawa we will tour around the city, which served to inspire many scenes in the movie Your Name. To end the day we will experience Kumihimo. It is a traditional braiding art that was used to make the one Mitsuha uses in the movie.
The Takayama Morning Market features local produce and delicious regional food. The anime Hyouka takes place in Takayama city and features the Miyagawa River where the morning market happens. Seki is a famous town known for its tamahagane, which is used to make various steel objects. The most famous is the Japanese sword. At the Seki Traditional Swordsmith Museum you can watch masters make real swords and learn about how the famed katana came to being. Morikoro Park is where the Aichi Expo was held in 2005. Inside this park is a replica of the home of Saki and Mei from the movie My Neighbor Totoro.
Here at the Iga Ryu Ninja Museum you can learn the real history of the Iga Ryu Ninja and see a show that showcase real ninja techniques. Todaiji is known for having the largest bronze Buddha statue in Japan. Animes with scenes of school trips where hundreds of deer surrounds people have been imprinted into fans. Shikamaru Nara from the popular show Naruto is another reason why visiting is a must. Fushimi Inari Taisha is the grand shrine for Inari. The gates have attained fame through Memoirs of a Geisha, but the shrine has also appeared in the show, Konkon, Koi Iroha. Gion is an old tea house district where Geisha perform and can be seen walking to the appointments.
Kinkakuji was once the retirement home for Ashikaga Yoshmitsu. Today it is known as the building covered in gold leaf. As iconic as the Golden Pavilion is, one scene sticks out in the minds of fans who have seen K-On. Their trip to Kyoto has put specific historical sites on the map and this site is one of them. Tenryuji Garden has been around for more than 600 years and is a tranquil place to enjoy the seasonal flowers. The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is one of the most famous Instagram spots for cosplayers. It has appeared in different animes, but Rurouni Kenshin fans have the biggest nostalgia. Kiyomizudera has appeared in a few series like Love Hina, Lucky Star, and Sword Art Online. The platform and love stones has been the attraction for high school based anime series during school trips. It is a historical temple that is listed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Samurai & Ninja Museum is where you can learn the history of ninja and examine the ninja authentic weapons and implements. We will also be able to see real samurai armor.
At 103 meters high, Tsutenkaku, reconstructed in 1956, is in Shinsekai, which is famous for kushikatsu (battered, deep fried food). On the 2nd floor there is a Kinnikuman Museum since the creator of the series is from Osaka. Osaka Castle is a reconstructed building that is very iconic of Osaka. Toyotomi Hideyoshi, founder of the castle, has been a historical character featured in various games and anime series either as a good or bad guy. Nipponbashi Den Den Town is the Akihabara of Osaka. The street is filled with various shops and makes for a great place to buy Japanese Doujinshi. Dotonbori is the center of the food culture in Osaka. Here you can enjoy all the comfort food the city has to offer.
NOTE 5: If you wish to stay in the center of Osaka for the last night instead of Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, we can arrange for you to stay at Hotel Elsereine Osaka (or similar class). In this case, airport transfer is not included, but we will provide full instructions for you to get to the airport in advance.
NOTE 6: If you will be flying out from Itami Airport (ITM) instead of Kansai International Airport (KIX), we can arrange for you to stay at Hotel Elsereine Osaka (or similar class) instead of Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport. In this case, airport transfer is not included but we will provide full instructions for you to get to the airport in advance.
After breakfast, our tour officially ends. Checkout time is 11 am and Osaka Kansai Airport can be reached in a three minute walk.
NOTE 7: If you would like to stay longer in Japan, please contact us to book hotel accommodations.
Tokyo is the number one destination for tourist bound for Japan. It is the number one most populated, the biggest city, and is the capital of Japan. From shopping to sightseeing, this city offers everything that tourist want to see. There are a number of places to see the entire city, tourist can visit the Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower to get a breathtaking view of the city. For shopping, visitors can head to the most popular areas such as Ginza, Ikebukuro’s Sunshine City, or Shinjuku. There are also many museums available such as the Edo Tokyo Museum or the Tokyo National Museum. This modern city still has many parks, temples, and shines for anyone interested in a cultural experience.
Buddhist temple with souvenir shopping street, an atmosphere of old Tokyo.
The Sensoji Temple located in Asakusa is one of the most popular Buddhist temples to visit. The temple was built and completed in the year 645 and is Tokyo’s oldest temple. The surrounding area offers shopping for souvenirs and food. The Sanja Festival is one of Tokyo’s biggest festivals and is held every May at Asakusa Temple.
The Samurai Kembu Experience offers immersive lessons in swordplay and performance utilizing katana and fan, making each visitor feel like a classical samurai warrior.
The Samurai Kembu Experience has locations in Tokyo and Kyoto, and teaches an art that is part martial art, part stage performance. Kembu is a kind of performance art that uses the katana (or samurai sword), and Japanese fan, often set to traditional poems that were written by samurai. The lessons include a costume rental and teach the basics of how to handle a katana, consisting of proper martial posture and simple slashing techniques. Guests also learn to handle a Japanese fan, which includes proper bowing form and introduction to samurai poetry. The lessons include time to take pictures in cool samurai poses.
Tokyo One Piece Tower is a theme park starring the beloved characters from the popular One-Piece anime and manga, with a stage show, arcade, restaurants and other attractions.
One Piece Tokyo Tower is a popular amusement park found inside Tokyo Tower. The park is made up of themed areas connected to the characters from One Piece, with kid-friendly experiences like “Luffy’s Endless Adventure”, “Zoro’s Soul of Edge”, “Nami’s Casino House”, and “Brook’s Horror House”. Re- created sections of the Pirate Ship “Thousand Sunny” may be explored on a Chopper-guided walkthrough. A theater presents a live-action stage show starring Luffy and the other Straw Hat Pirates, with a new adventure exclusive to the park and a story that changes depending on season. Tokyo One Piece Tower also includes restaurants and stores selling official One- Piece merchandise.
The Ninja Restaurant Akasaka is a dining adventure that brings visitors to a mysterious ninja village where skilled ninja staff present cunningly designed foods accompanied by ninja feats of skill.
Ninja Restaurant Akasaka is a ninja-themed dining establishment in Tokyo. The entrance is a deceptively small door near Tokyu Plaza Akasaka, so visitors feel from the beginning like they have accessed a secret hideout. Enter a labyrinthian dining area fitted to the elegant simplicity of the Edo period, with décor of stone and lacquered wood accented by charming natural features like waterfalls and the sounds of crickets chirping. Food presentation is an equal part of the show, and culinary masters of various cuisines, including Japanese, Italian, French, and Chinese artfully craft and plate each dish. They even add trick effects like fire and smoke to make the dining experience that much more ninja.
See all things Studio Ghibli related at the intricately detailed Ghibli Museum.
The Ghibli Museum is a thorough exhibit showcasing films and art by Studio Ghibli, one of Japan’s largest animation studios. It is renowned as a must see site for all Miyazaki Hayao fans, the creator of celebrated films such as Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, My Neighbor Totoro, and many more.
Manga School Nakano International is a school that teaches international students the finer points of Japanese manga artwork, instructed by a professional manga artist.
Manga School Nakano International is a school in Tokyo that specializes in teaching international English-speaking students how to draw Japanese manga. The 2-hour lessons accommodate students of all skill levels, and even children are welcome to give it a try. The classes teach beginners how to make characters with the cute expressions that make anime so popular. The head teacher at the school is Nao Yazawa, a professional manga artist known for manga “Wedding Peach”. While the school is friendly to first- timers, it’s also a good opportunity for an amateur artist to get some practical pointers from a local manga artist.
The Pokémon Center Shibuya is a stylish store in downtown Tokyo that sells assorted Pokémon merchandise, including apparel, accessories, and toys.
The Pokémon Center opened in the Shibuya district of Tokyo in 2019, the 5th in a series of Tokyo stores officially licensed by Nintendo to sell Pokémon-themed merchandise. Unlike previous Pokémon Centers, the Shibuya Pokémon Center aims for a more modern, cool atmosphere to its store to fit the Shibuya area’s stylish aesthetic. Instead of the common Pikachu as its mascot Pokémon, the store has chosen Mewtwo to represent the store’s image, even suspending a life- size statue of the legendary psychic-type in a sleek water tank out in front of the shop. Pokémon merchandise of all kinds are available for purchase – apparel, accessories, and plush toys, including next- generation Pokémon from its latest titles.
The statue of Hachiko stands outside Shibuya station in Tokyo; a memorial to commemorate the story of an adorable dog’s constant faithfulness.
One of Tokyo’s most beloved, albeit unofficial landmarks, the Hachiko statue tells the tale of an especially faithful Akita dog named Hachiko. This dog famously went to Shibuya station every day to await the return of his master, a professor at Tokyo University. Hachiko continued to wait, even 10 years following the professor’s untimely passing. The story has since passed into legend, commemorated with the statue near Shibuya station. The statue has become a popular meeting place for local residents, conveniently located just outside one of the station’s main exits, now known as the Hachiko exit.
Shibuya Crossing is a landmark intersection near Shibuya Station. Residents walking from all directions at once meet in one of the most energetic displays of bustling Tokyo.
The Shibuya Crossing is a street intersection located near Shibuya Station’s Hachiko exit in Tokyo. The crossing has five major crosswalks covering the immense diamond intersection. The crossing is comparable to New York’s Times Square in terms of foot traffic, having almost 3,000 people crossing at its peak periods. The Shibuya Crossing is also known as the Scramble Crossing, since every crossing light turns green at the same time, leading to a leisurely rush of human traffic. The crosswalk becomes party central for the city on New Year’s Eve. The adjacent Starbucks, offering prime viewing of the crosswalk action from its windows, is one of Japan’s most popular.
Enjoy a Sailor Moon Dinner Show at Shining Moon Tokyo, where you can enjoy an adorable meal during an entertaining dance show featuring characters from the Sailor Moon Series.
The Shining Moon Tokyo is a combination restaurant and theater in the Azabujuban ward of Tokyo. The theater features daily performances involving characters from the acclaimed magical girl anime “Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon”. Opening in 2019, the Shining Moon gives fans of the classic anime an entertaining dance and song spectacle, with a live- action Sailor Moon herself at center stage, backed up by her friends the Sailor Guardians. The restaurant offers a menu of cutesy food and drinks on dishware that shares the theme, and the store sells an assortment of related Sailor Moon Show apparel and accessories.
The Unicorn Gundam is a full-scale replica of the immense fighting robotic suits from the popular Japanese anime Mobile Suit Gundam.
The Unicorn Gundam stands at nearly 20 meters tall beside the DiverCity Tokyo Plaza in Odaiba. It is arguably the biggest show piece in the entertainment district, with gleaming white armor in an iconic fighting pose that captivates visiting travelers. The statue was formerly of the classic RX-78-2 Gundam design, but it was replaced in 2017 with the newer Unicorn Gundam model. The biggest difference between the Unicorn Gundam and its predecessor is that this newer model can be seen transforming between Unicorn and Destroyer modes four times per day. This newer Gundam also features light-up paneling, so even at night it appears ready to spring into action.
Akihabara is an area of Tokyo celebrated among anime fans as the otaku culture capital of the world. The Electric Town offers a number of anime and game merchandise stores, arcades, and themed cafes.
Akihabara is a special district of Tokyo, well known in Japan as the nation’s cultural heart of anime, manga, and gamer-geek fandom. The famed Electric Town is marked by eye-popping storefront signs lining the streets surrounding Akihabara Station. These stores sell various merchandise appealing to the anime fan collector, such as detailed figurines, assorted apparel, accessories, artwork, toys, games, CDs, DVDs, and other amusements. Tucked between these shops are a vast assortment of themed cafes – not only anime/game refreshment spots like Gundam Café and Square-Enix Cafe, but also maid cafes, cat cafes, even owl cafes.
Hakone is located in Kanagawa Prefecture and is only about two hours away from Tokyo. Hakone is park of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is a popular destination for tourist. Hakone is famous in Japan for its hot springs and beautiful natural views. Visitors can go to the many hot spring resorts to relax and unwind or visit the many museums and shrines available. Guests that would appreciate nature more could go to the parks and trails to experience the natural beauty.
Famous for having Mount Fuji in the background and the lake as its inspirational canvas.
Lake Ashinoko along with Mount Fuji in the background is the proud symbol of Hakone. One of the best views with the lake and Mount Fuji could be seen from one of the many sightseeing boats. There are a few boat cruises available, but the main two are ran by Hakone Sightseeing Boats and Izuhakone Sightseeing Boats. The best time to come is during the cherry blossom season and when the autumn colors are at its peak.
The Hakone-Yumoto Evangelion Shop is a store that sells high-quality merchandise based on the Neon Genesis Evangelion anime, in addition to various Eva-affiliated concessions.
The Hakone Yumoto Evangelion Shop is located in Hakone, in Kanagawa Prefecture. This region of Japan is known for beautiful landscape and onsen hot springs, and recognizable by fans of Neon Genesis Evangelion as the real-life setting of Tokyo-3. The shop has a traditional Japanese look to it, with Japan- style decoration connected to the anime, including a statue of Rei in a stylish kimono. The appeal of the shop is not only in the setting and design; Hakone Yumoto EVA Shop sells a wide range of Evangelion merchandise featuring Rei, Asuka, Shinji, and other characters from the anime. Specialty items include hand-crafted tableware, figurines, and apparel. The shop also sells NERV-stamped baked goods, sweets, and drinks.
The highest mountain in Japan, Mt. Fuji is 3,776 meters above sea level, and is located more or less in the center of Japan, stretching over Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures. Its elegant conical form has frequently been depicted in many paintings and literary works since ancient times. Many artists have been captivated by the diverse expressions shown by this mountain depending on the season, or depending on the time of the day, whether in the morning or early evening. It is widely believed that Mt. Fuji is unparalleled worldwide as a mountain that has so frequently been narrated, sung in verse, and drawn.
Great view of the Fuji Five Lakes area below.
Mt. Fuji is a widely-known symbol of Japan. At 3,773 meters, Mount Fuji is Japan’s tallest mountain. “Station (gome)” is the unit representing one tenth of the length from the trail entrance to the top.The fifth station Mt. Fuji is the fifth point from the base at the height of 2,305 meter. Being the end of the Fuji Subaru Line toll road and the highest point that general cars can reach. From the observatory you can see below Komitake Shrine, an ancient place for prayer that has been visited by worshippers and disciplinant, and Yamanaka-ko, the largest lake among the five Fuji lakes.
Matsumoto is located in the Nagano Prefecture and is known for one of Japan’s most popular and original castles. Many people travel to Matsumoto to view the popular Matsumoto castle, known as one of Japan’s most beautiful original castles and is one of Japan’s four National Treasure Castles. Another popular location is the Daio wasabi Farm, which is Japan’s largest wasabi farm. Matsumoto is also a popular location for people departing into Kamikochi, Norikura, or any of the popular Japanese Alps resorts locations.
One of Japan's premier historic castles, along with Himeji Castle and Kumamoto Castle.
Matsumoto is home to one of Japan’s four National Treasure Castles, the Matsumoto Castle. This castle is one of the most beautiful, and complete original castles in all of Japan compared to the other four National Treasure Castles. During the spring season, Matsumoto Castel is a very popular location to view the cherry blossoms.
Take the Your Name Tour: a special excursion through memorable locations in the Japanese countryside that were used as references in the 2016 anime film Your Name.
Your Name was an award-winning Japanese anime drama film made in 2016 which tells the story of two high schoolers – a boy from Tokyo and a girl from a small country town – who suddenly swap bodies. The film was a big success, both in Japan and abroad, for its gorgeous animation and emotionally engaging narrative. The refreshing country settings from the film come to life in the small town of Hida Furukawa. The old-fashioned storehouses, romantic canals full of koi fish, and a series of small temples give visitors the feeling of having stepped into the film. Small shops also sell locally made souvenirs.
Kumihimo is a homegrown Japanese handicraft for braiding cords or ribbons by lacing the strands together in complex patterns.
Kumihimo, or “gathered threads” is a form of braiding that is native to Japan. The history of the handicraft goes all the way back to samurai times, when it was used by the noble warrior class for decorative fastenings on metal armor and horse barding. Now the technique is mainly used as a fancy addition to elegant kimono outfits. The basics of the technique are easy to learn and can be a good cultural experience for visiting travelers to small country towns like Hida Furukawa. Kumihimo also gained recognition among anime fans when it made an appearance in the anime drama Your Name.
The city of Takayama is located within the Hida mountain region in the Gifu Prefecture. This city is one of the top destinations for tourist wishing to explore a touch of rural Japan. The old town of Takayama is one of Japan’s most beautifully preserved area of historic buildings and houses that date back to the Edo period.
Guests can enjoy shopping for goods such as small crafts, foods, snacks and flowers.
Every morning in Takayama there are two morning markets set up for tourist to visit. Both markets are well within walking distance from Takayama station. In front of the Takayama Jinya is the Jinya-Mae Market and along the Miyagawa River in the old town section is the Miyagawa Market. Guests can enjoy shopping for goods such as small crafts, foods, snacks and flowers.
Seki is a city in Gifu Prefecture. Once a part of the Mino Domain during Japan’s feudal era, the city was once synonymous with excellent swordsmiths; local masters produced high-quality swords and other bladed weapons. Famed masters included Kinju – a student of the legendary samurai Masamune. The city has since used traditional forging techniques to make some of Japan’s finest kitchen knives and cutlery. Seki is home to several institutions that showcase its long connection to blade-making, with the Seki Swordsmith Museum, the Seki Outdoor Knife Show, and even a Cutlery Festival in October.
The Seki Traditional Swordsmith Museum is special museum in Seki, Gifu, dedicated to celebrating centuries of masterful sword craftsmanship by the Seki Blacksmiths.
The city of Seki, Gifu, is home to the Seki Traditional Swordsmith Museum. Seki has been a place that has long been associated with exceptional Japanese katanas and other blades, and although the city’s industry has updated its production to quality kitchen knives, this museum preserves the fine craftsmanship and smithing techniques that the city is known for. The museum exhibits numerous samurai swords in excellent condition from as far back as the Kamakura period – over 700 years ago. A locally distinct smithing style is demonstrated at the museum once a month, marked by a special ceremony where men dressed in white strike steel with large hammers.
Nagakute is a city bordering Nagoya in Aichi Prefecture. The city is well-known in Japanese history for being the site of a series of battles fought between Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu during the Sengoku Period. The battleground area is now a public park. The city has also gained popularity among tourists of anime sites, and especially Ghibli films, since a reconstruction of Satsuki and Mei’s House from My Neighbor Totoro was opened there in 2005 for the Aichi World Expo. The nearby Expo fairground of Morikoro Park is also open for visitors to enjoy, with a giant Ferris wheel, ice skating rink, and other leftover structures.
Morikoro Park is the name of the exhibition ground in Nagakute for the 2005 Aichi World Expo, and by far the most famous attraction was reconstruction of Satsuki and Mei’s House from My Neighbor Totoro.
Morikoro Park is a park in Nagakute, Aichi, which was the site of the 2005 World Expo. Morikoro also gives its name to the mascots of the Expo, represented as a pair of fluffy forest creatures. The Expo focused on nature preservation, with ecological impact, sustainability, and natural wonder as primary themes. Some of the structures from the fair can still be visited, and the most popular is undoubtedly a reconstruction of Satsuki and Mei’s House from the Studio Ghibli film My Neighbor Totoro, built in the middle of the Expo’s Forest Experience Zone. The house was built in the old-fashioned style of the Showa Period, and artificially aged.
Iga City (伊賀市, Iga-shi) was formed in 2004 with the
merger of Ueno City and five surrounding towns and
villages. The city is named after the former Iga Province,
which covered part of today's Mie Prefecture. The city
has been commonly referred to as Iga Ueno (伊賀上野)
to avoid confusion with other places named Ueno. Iga
Ueno is most famous for ninja. The Iga school of ninjutsu
(art of stealth), based in the former Ueno City, used to be
one of Japan's two leading ninja schools during the
feudal era (the Koka School in neighboring Shiga
Prefecture was the other). Today, Iga Ueno attracts
visitors with its fine ninja museum. Iga Ueno Castle is
famous for having the highest stone walls in Japan.
These stone walls were selected for use in a scene for
the movie "Kagemusha," directed by the internationally
renowned film maker Akira Kurosawa.
Iga Ueno is also the birthplace of one of Japan's greatest
poets, Basho Matsuo, who lived during the early Edo
Period. Matsuo Basho created 'haiku,' a unique
Japanese-style short poetry consisting of 3 lines with 17
syllables and contributed to the renovation of the old-
fashioned linked verse known as 'haikai.' The Haisei-den,
the great haiku poet's hall, was built inside Ueno Park in
1942 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of his birth.
The building itself is shaped like the figure of Basho
attired in a traveling clothes. The round roof symbolizes
his sedge hat, the octagonal eaves his surplice, the pillar
is his cane, and the frame of the Haisei-den is in the
shape of his face. Other Basho-related facilities include
the Minomushi-an, or bagworm hermitage, and the
venerable Basho Memorial Hall, Basho-o Kinen-kan
Museum. A memorial museum, his birth home and a
former hermitage are some of the city's Basho related
sites.
Iga Ninja Museum showcases the history and artifacts of
ninja in the Iga area. The museum can be found in Mie
prefecture near the Iga Ueno Castle. It was first
established in 1964 and the current honorary director of
the facility is Jinichi Kawakami, the proclaimed 21st head
of Iga-ryu ninjutsu. Iga Ninja Museum is comprised of two
exhibitions, ninja residence, and stage. All the areas
combined provide a comprehensive understanding of the
ninja culture in Iga.
In the museum’s collection you can see ninjutsu (art of
stealth) tools that were used and learn about their use.
There are also ancient Ninjutsu writings that have been
scientifically analyzed. The 400 ninja tools that are on
display show the types of weapons used during the time
when ninjas were active. At the stage area of the
museum there are ninja shows that demonstrate the use
of real weapons. They showcase actual ninja skills, but
the show is only in Japanese. Also part of the Iga Ninja
Museum is a residence that Iga ninjas once used. Even
though it looks normal from the outside, the inside vastly
differs. There are revolving walls, hidden compartments,
and trap doors that the Iga ninja utilize when there were
intruders present.
The city of Nara was once known as the first capital established in Japan. Nara is located only less than an hour away from both Kyoto and Osaka. Nara is home to some of Japan’s oldest, largest, and historic temples. The landmark and symbol of Nara is the Todaiji Temple, which was built in the 7th century. One the most popular attractions is Nara Park where visitors come every day to see the wild deer that roam free throughout the park.
One of Japan’s most historic and famous temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Located north of Nara Park is one of Japan’s most historic and famous temple called the Todai-Ji Temple. This temple is listed as one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The temple’s main hall named Daibutsuden, is the largest wooden building in the world. It is home to one of Japan’s largest bronze statues of Buddha siting at fifteen meters tall.
Over 1,000 Sika deer roam free.
Located in central Nara is Nara Park, it is one of the most famous and popular parks in Japan. The park is famous and popular because it is home to over one thousand deer. The deer roam freely throughout the park and visitors are able to get up close and feed the deer as well. This park is conveniently located near most of Nara’s main tourist destinations, which include Todai-Ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofuku-Ji Temple, and the Nara National Museum.
Kyoto was once the old capital of Japan and is filled with historic temples, shrines, buildings, and other structures. Kyoto is filled with many temples and shrines such as the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine and the Golden Pavilion. It is also home of the Gion Festival, which is the most famous festival in Japan. Kyoto is the number two destination for tourist bound for Japan, and is the number one destination for tourist looking for a full Japanese cultural experience.
One of the most famous and visited shrines in Kyoto.
The Fushimi Inari-Taisha Grand Shrine is located in southern Kyoto and is one of the most famous and visited shrines in Kyoto. This shrine is only five minutes away from Kyoto Station by train, and features over a thousand vermillion colored torii gates that brings many tourist to this shrine every year.
Kyoto's most famous geisha district.
Located only 20 minutes away by bus from Kyoto Station, is the Gion Geisha District. The Gion Geisha District is one of the most famous and popular destinations for tourist visiting Kyoto. This area is filled with restaurants, teahouses, shops, and other attractions to entertain guests. The machiya merchant houses along with river and the occasional geisha walking around, brings visitors from everywhere to experience everything that this area has to offer.
Temple building covered in gold (National Special Historic Site).
The famous Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) Temple is located in northern Kyoto and is most known for the building covered in gold leaf. This famous building is the number one most popular destination for tourist visiting Kyoto. The Golden Pavilion sits overlooking a large pond and various small attractions and shops are available for visitors.
Pleasant district at the outskirts of Kyoto.
Arashiyama is located on the western outskirts of Kyoto and is a well-known destination for both the cherry blossoms and fall colors seasons. North of the famous Togetsukyo Bridge is Sagano, and together they make this place a nice little getaway from temples and shrines to enjoy nature. Popular destinations include the Togetsukyo Bridge and the Bamboo Forest of Arashiyama.
One of the most popular and well-known spots for visitors in Arashiyama.
One of the most popular and well-known spots for visitors is the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. A nice walking path takes visitors through the groves of bamboos. The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is also one of the most famous and photographed places in all of Kyoto and brings many visitors every year during the autumn color season.
Temple famous for its large wooden terrace (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
The Kiyomizu-Dera Temple is located only 15 minutes away by bus from Kyoto Station to the eastern side of Kyoto. This temple is one of the most popular temples in Kyoto and is listed as one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The temple features a large wooden terrace that offers a fantastic view of the cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn colors during the fall season with the city of Kyoto in the background.
The Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum contains ancient samurai and ninja artifacts, including authentic armor and weapons, preserved carefully from Japan’s feudal era.
The Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum is located in Kyoto, Japan – also known as Japan’s cultural heartland. The city of shrines and temples is the perfect setting for the museum, which features enough eye-catching samurai armors and weapons to fascinate every visitor. In addition to the exhibits, the museum also offers a demonstration in use of the samurai sword, as well as optional lessons that include a chance to wear samurai armor and learn to smoothly draw and sheathe a katana. There is a separate ninja experience for the chance to dress and fight like a ninja, with lessons in their secret stealth techniques.
Osaka is the second largest city in Japan in terms of size located not too far from Kyoto. This city is one of the top three destinations for tourist visiting Japan after Tokyo and Kyoto. Osaka is the location of the popular Universal Studios Japan, Osaka castle, and Namba. There is plenty to experience in Osaka, from shopping to visiting temples and shrines, Osaka has plenty of destinations to experience Japan.
One of Japan's most famous landmarks.
Located in the center of the city of Osaka lies Osaka Castle Park which holds the city’s most popular attraction, Osaka Castle. This castle was originally built in the 16th century, but has been destroyed and rebuilt many times before. Visitors will have to go through Osaka Castle Park to reach the castle, which including walking through impressive gates, and walking up on stone stairs. This area is also one of the most popular cherry blossom season location in the city.
Tsutenkaku Tower is one of the most popular of Osaka’s modern landmarks, where visitors can get a fantastic view of the city being a prominent symbol of Osaka’s rise toward the future.
Tsutenkaku Tower is one of Osaka’s premier landmarks, located in the Shinsekai district of Osaka. At 103 meters tall, Tsutenkaku (literally, The Tower Reaching Heaven), is the perfect place for a grand view of Osaka city. The original tower was burned down in the 1940s and the remaining steel was used during World War 2, and later the people of Osaka rebuilt the tower as a symbol of Japan’s reconstruction. On the observation deck is enshrined a wooden statue of Billiken, an American good luck charm doll that became a “god of happiness and good fortune”, attracting thousands over the years to make a wish near the doll. The tower is also splendid to see at night, resplendent in neon lighting.
Nipponbashi Den Den Town is Osaka’s premier anime, gamer, and Japan pop culture hub. Stores around the neighborhood sell a broad array of related merchandise near cafes staffed by adorable maids.
Nipponbashi Den Den Town is a special shopping district of Osaka city known for catering to various anime, gaming, and otaku interests – Osaka’s answer to Tokyo’s Akihabara. The name of the town comes from its many low-price electronics shops, although popular anime/gamer merchandise outlets such as Super Potato and Animate also have shops there. There are also excellent hobby stores, especially for those who enjoy making models. Many visitors prefer Den Den Town to Akihabara as it is often less crowded and, on the whole, easier to navigate. Like Akihabara, they also include some excellent themed cafes – especially maid cafes – for visitors to immerse themselves in cuteness.
Dotonbori is the entertainment district of Osaka. Running along the Dotonbori Canal, the area is known as the center of Osaka’s foodie culture, with a collection of chic and outlandish restaurants.
Dotonbori is a district of Osaka, popular among locals and visiting tourists as the best place to go for food. The street runs parallel to the Dotonbori Canals, and is lined with some of the city’s top eateries. The district is the perfect representation of the Osaka motto of “Kuidaore”, a proverb which means to “ruin oneself with extravagant food”. Visitors touring the district should be on the lookout for Kinryu Ramen – a notable restaurant chain known for a massive golden dragon on their storefront signage, as well as Kani Doraku – a crab seafood restaurant with a moving king crab billboard. The top landmark of the area, however, is the enormous Glico “Running Man” sign, which advertises the Glico candy brand.
Narita (Day 1)
Western Style Accommodation
The Hotel Mystays Premier Narita is conveniently located ten minutes from Narita Airport and 80 minutes by car from central Tokyo. Guests can relax in the tranquility of the hotel’s traditional Japanese garden or explore nearby places of historical beauty such as the Narita Shrine and Shinshoji Temple. The rooms are functional, well kept and convenient with essential facilities such as direct line telephones and cable TV. There is an excellent choice of sports and recreational activities including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts and a fitness club. Guests can be spoiled by the choice of dining options which include restaurants specializing in Western, Chinese and Japanese cuisine in locations with impressive views of the airport.
Tokyo (Day 1, Day 2, Day 3 & Day 4)
Western Style Accommodation
Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro is located 3 minutes by foot from Ikebukuro Station, a massive terminal with eight different subway and JR lines. From the station, over 17 round trip buses depart to both Narita and Haneda International Airports each day, assuring convenience for guests arriving by or planning to make a transfer by air. When setting off from the hotel, guests can easily reach popular attractions such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre and Ikebukuro Café, a unique space where visitors can play with owls and other animals.
Oizumi Kogen (Day 5)
Japanese Style Accommodation
The 4-star Yatsugatake Royal Hotel offers comfort and convenience whether you're on business or holiday in Yamanashi. This hotel has everything you need for a comfortable stay. Designed and decorated to make guests feel right at home, each room comes with separate dining area, air conditioning, seating area. Enjoy the hotel's recreational facilities, including hot spring bath, indoor pool, spa, outdoor pool, before retiring to your room for a well-deserved rest. At an altitude of 1000 meters, this hotel has great views of the South Alps and Mount Fuji and it has its own observatory for star gazing.
Takayama (Day 6)
Western-Style Accommodation
Hotel Associa Takayama Resort soars on the Takayama
highland at 640 meters above sea level.
You can experience living with nature and have an
irreplaceable time. Every room of the hotel has
magnificent views of the Northern Japanese Alps. Spa
Wing-onsen or Hot Spring Baths features 'Ten'- no-yu or
Sky bath (7th floor) and 'bou'-no-yu or Overlooking bath
(5th floor). There are ten outdoor baths and two indoor
baths which have fine hot spring water of the highlands.
Here, you can enjoy a variety of warmth within the Hida
Takayama highland hot springs.
Nagoya (Day 7)
Western Style Accommodation
Just 1,650 feet from Sakae Subway Station, Nagoya Tokyu Hotel features a fitness center with indoor pool, a sauna and 3 dining options. The spacious rooms include European-style furniture, a flat-screen satellite TV and a mini-bar. Private parking is possible on site at an additional charge. The Nagoya Tokyu’s air-conditioned rooms feature imported European fabrics. Guests can put on the bathrobe and slippers and unwind with a pay TV program. Each room has a tea maker, seating area and bathtub.
Kyoto (Day 8 & Day 9)
Western Style Accommodation
This 4-star Grand Prince Hotel Kyoto offers comfort and convenience whether you're on business or holiday in Kyoto. Designed with flair by noted architect Togo Murano, the Grand Prince Hotel Kyoto features spacious guest rooms, elegant banquet halls, multiple restaurants and a Sukiya-style teahouse at the Japanese garden on the property.
Kansai (Day 10)
Western Style Accommodation
Located within the Kansai Airport's Aeroplaza a short walk from both passenger terminal and train station, the Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport combines superb convenience with world-class facilities and the famed hospitality of Nikko Hotels International. With its seafront setting and harmonious design, this is a hotel with the ambience of a resort-yet with direct access to Osaka and the entire Kansai region. The local area also offers a number of attractions, including Rinku Park, Rinku Premium Outlets and Nakami Shrine.
Osaka (Day 10)
Western Style Accommodation
Located in the Umeda city centre, Hotel Elsereine Osaka features stylish accommodation and plenty fresh flowers. This completely non-smoking hotel offers 3 dining options, and comes with a concert hall with a grand piano and a meeting space. JR Osaka Train Station is a 10-minute walk, and the JR Kita-shinchi Train Station is a 5- minute walk away. Universal Studios Japan is a 25-minute train ride away, and Osaka Castle is a 30-minute train ride away from Osaka Hotel Elsereine. Umeda Station is a 10-minute walk away from the property.
PLEASE NOTE: These are the hotels All Japan Tours generally uses on the touring styles and regions shown. There is no guarantee that you will stay in the lodgings listed on the website. We encourage you to check your travel documentation for confirmation of the exact accommodation you will be staying in.
Destinations
Tokyo / Hakone / Mt Fuji / Lake Suwa / Matsumoto / Hida Furukawa / Takayama / Seki / Nagakute / Nara / Kyoto / Osaka
Other Japan Tours you may interested
Other Japan Tours you may interested