Japan in a Nutshell
ItineraryDays 1-4 – Let’s go Tokyo!
One of the world’s truly great cities, Tokyo is a thrilling mix of the past and future, complete with incredible cuisine, neon-lit nightlife and unique pop-culture. After being picked up from the airport and transferred to your hotel near the heart of the city, you’ll have plenty of time to visit the contrasting areas which make up this unique metropolis. You’ll also take an evening tour of Shibuya with a guide popping into a few well-chosen eateries where you can have drinks and try out some delicious bar food. At the end of the tour, you’ll be well prepped to explore the dazzling streets of Tokyo all by yourself, like a true local.
Days 4-6 – At the foot of Fuji
Today you will make your own way to the train station to collect your Rail Pass before getting your first taste of train travel in Japan en route to Hakone, the gateway to Mount Fuji. For the next couple of days you’ll stay in Hakone, located near the foot of the mountain and beside Ashino-ko Lake, providing a spectacular setting from which to take in the majesty of Fuji. The town is understandably popular and provides multiple tourist attractions and facilities, so we’ll provide a pass so that you can experience them at your own pace.
You’ll have plenty of options – ride the railway, take a boat trip on the lake, visit the impressive Hakone Shrine or some of the many museums – it totally up to you! There are also some great hiking trails if you feel like escaping the crowds. After a full day of exploring you can relax in one of the town’s many Onsen, and grab yourself some tasty Japanese cuisine at one of the many excellent restaurants.
Days 6-9 – Uncover the heart of Kyoto
Next up you will make your way to the train station and head to pretty Kyoto. When you think of Japan, you might imagine ancient temples, perfectly manicured zen gardens and time honoured tea ceremonies. Well, that’s Kyoto in a nutshell! During this trip you’ll spend 2 nights in this pretty city and hop aboard a bike to discover the city’s hidden backstreets. You can expect to whizz past willow lined rivers, along narrow streets and alongside traditional merchant houses.
Days 9-10 – Night In Tokyo
Finally, it’s time for your last train back to Tokyo for another night in the neon city. As your Japanese adventure comes to an end you will spend one more night in this bustling city, take a final walk past the towering skyscrapers and tuck into some tasty sushi.
Today your Japanese experience comes to an end as you’re transferred to the airport for your international flight home. Before heading through customs and security, remember to post your pocket wifi unit back through the airport post office.