12 Day Best of Japan Private Tour Golden Route

Tokyo | 

Japan

Discover Japan's Golden Route with this 12-day private tour, exploring Tokyo’s vibrant culture, Mount Fuji’s majestic beauty, Kyoto’s sacred sites, and Osaka’s bustling streets, all in luxury.

Overview

Embark on a captivating 12-day journey with our Best of Japan Private Tour Package – The Golden Route. Starting in Tokyo, explore the vibrant city’s must-see landmarks like the Senso-ji Temple, the bustling Tsukiji Fish Market, and the peaceful Imperial Palace Gardens. Marvel at the beauty of Mount Fuji and the serene Lake Kawaguchi, before continuing on to the picturesque towns of Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and Kanazawa, where you can explore at your own pace. In Kyoto, visit the famous Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and witness the gentle, friendly deer of Nara. Osaka will delight you with its unique blend of history and modern charm, while Hiroshima will provide an emotional connection to Japan’s past. With an expert guide by your side, this tour offers a perfect balance of iconic sights, hidden gems, and cultural immersion.

Whether you’re seeking breathtaking natural beauty, fascinating historical landmarks, or a taste of Japan’s diverse cuisine, this tour covers it all. The 12 Day Best of Japan Private Tour Package takes you through bustling cities, tranquil villages, and sacred sites, offering a true taste of Japan’s beauty, culture, and history. Spend 11 nights in carefully selected top-rated hotels, enjoy seamless train transfers, and create lasting memories in some of the country’s most enchanting regions.

Inclusions
  • 12 nights’ accommodation in handpicked hotels across Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and more.
  • Private guide throughout the journey to uncover hidden gems and local insights.
  • Private transfers and bullet train travel between cities, including scenic journeys on the Shinkansen.
  • Visit iconic Tokyo landmarks like Senso-ji Temple and Tsukiji Market, with free time for exploration.
  • Behold the breathtaking Mount Fuji from various vantage points, including Lake Kawaguchi and the 5th Station.
  • Discover historic Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and Kanazawa, with free time for independent exploration.
  • Experience Kyoto’s sacred temples and Nara’s revered wildlife at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Nara Park.
  • Indulge in Osaka’s delicious food scene and discover its vibrant streets and rich history.
  • Explore Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial and the floating shrine of Miyajima Island.
  • Enjoy a mix of vibrant city life and peaceful countryside escapes across five unforgettable regions.
Highlights
  • Delight in Tokyo’s vibrant culture, sacred shrines, and delicious flavours
  • Admire famous sites like Nijubashi Bridge, Senso-ji Temple, and Tsukiji Market
  • Explore the majestic beauty of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi
  • Experience the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto
  • In your free time, visit Takayama Onsen and explore Shirakawa-go & Kanazawa
  • Meet friendly local deer in Nara Park and visit the Great Buddha statue
  • Discover the rich history of Hiroshima and its Peace Memorial
  • Stay in top-rated hotels in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond, experiencing both city vibrancy and peaceful countryside
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Arrive in Tokyo and settle into your hotel. If needed, an airport transfer is available to make your journey more comfortable. Tokyo, a vibrant metropolis, welcomes you with its blend of old traditions and modern excitement. Take some time to relax after your flight and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Overnight in Tokyo

Day 2: Exploring Tokyo's Icons

Start your day with a visit to the famous Asakusa Senso-ji Temple, where you can shop for unique souvenirs along Nakamise-dori. Continue your tour at the Imperial Palace Gardens and take in views of the Nijubashi Bridge. After free time in the lively Harajuku district, visit the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine, nestled between the bustling Shibuya and Shinjuku districts.

Overnight in Tokyo

Day 3: Free Day in Tokyo

Enjoy a free day in Tokyo to explore the city at your own pace. Visit one of Tokyo’s sprawling parks, enjoy some local cuisine, or wander through any of the city’s fascinating districts that catch your eye. If you feel like it, take time to relax in your hotel or check out one of the many museums Tokyo has to offer.

Overnight in Tokyo

Day 4: Tsukiji Fish Market & Food Tasting

Today, delve into Tokyo’s culinary scene with a private food tour of the Tsukiji Fish Market, where you’ll taste fresh seafood like sashimi bowls and other local treats. Visit a 300-year-old Buddhist temple and learn about Japan’s ancient traditions before riding up to a secret observatory deck for a panoramic view of the market and city skyline.

Overnight in Tokyo

Day 5: Mount Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi & Takayama

Head to Oishi Park for stunning views of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. Visit the Arakura-Fuji Sengen Shrine and reach the 5th Station of Mount Fuji for epic views of the surrounding landscape. Take a peaceful stroll through Oshino Hakkai’s natural ponds, then transfer to Takayama, a town known for its scenic beauty and historic charm.

Overnight in Takayama

Day 6: Free Day in Takayama

Take the day to unwind and explore Takayama at your own pace. You could visit one of the town’s onsen (hot springs), sample some sake at a local brewery, or simply enjoy the historic streets at your leisure. Takayama is known for its well-preserved old town, perfect for those wanting to take in a slower pace of life.

Overnight in Takayama

Day 7: Shirakawa-go & Kanazawa

Enjoy a private transfer to Kanazawa, with a stop in Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage village known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Explore the village at your own pace before continuing to Kanazawa, where you’ll visit the tranquil Kenrokuen Garden and enjoy the beautiful views it offers.

Overnight in Kanazawa

Day 8: Transfer to Kyoto & Afternoon Tour

Catch the Thunderbird Limited Express to Kyoto, taking in the scenic views along the way, including Lake Biwa. Upon arrival in Kyoto, enjoy a private afternoon walking tour, visiting the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and the Buddhist temples of Sanjusangendo and Kiyomizudera, where history and culture await.

Overnight in Kyoto

Day 9: Nara & Transfer to Osaka

Today, explore Nara Park, where you’ll meet the friendly Sika deer before visiting the majestic Todai-ji Temple and the sacred Kasuga Taisha Shrine. After a leisurely lunch and souvenir shopping, transfer to Osaka. Osaka is known for its dynamic atmosphere, so get ready to experience its exciting energy.

Overnight in Osaka

Day 10: Discovering Osaka

Begin your day with a visit to Osaka Castle, a 16th-century beauty that is a must-see for history buffs. Continue to the vibrant Kuromon Ichiba Market for lunch and wander through Shinsekai, Osaka’s retro district. Don’t miss Tsutenkaku, the iconic tower that was designed by the same architect as Tokyo Tower.

Overnight in Osaka

Day 11: Hiroshima & Miyajima

Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima, then ferry across to Miyajima Island, home to the UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine, a stunning structure that appears to float on water. After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere, return to Hiroshima for a visit to the Peace Memorial Park and the A-Bomb Dome, a symbol of Hiroshima’s resilience.

Overnight in Osaka

Day 12: Departure

Depending on your schedule, opt for a transfer to Kansai Airport (KIX), or take a bullet train back to Tokyo for your onward journey. With unforgettable memories from 12 days of exploring Japan’s rich culture and landscapes, you’ll depart with a deeper understanding of the country.

Terms & Conditions

Price & Availability:
Kindly be advised that all reservations are contingent upon availability and will be officially confirmed within 24 hours of receiving your booking request. Our prices are denominated in Australian dollars, and any currency conversions will be processed at midnight daily. Given the fluctuating nature of exchange rates, prices are subject to change until we receive full payment.

Self-Guided Packages Terms and Conditions:
Our Self-Guided Packages are designed to offer travellers complete flexibility, while providing the convenience of a carefully planned and proven itinerary that has been enjoyed by thousands of clients. These packages give you the freedom to explore at your own pace, with the added benefit of local expertise through selected group tours and optional private experiences.

Accommodation Flexibility:
Accommodation options within the itinerary are flexible. Travellers can mix and match different star ratings in each location to suit their preferences and budget. If a selected hotel is unavailable at the time of booking, we will provide an alternative of similar standard and location.

Day Tours and Excursions:
Included day excursions are group tours, typically accommodating between 10 and 30 participants. These tours are guided by experienced local guides who offer valuable insights into each destination. Please note that, like most day tour experiences in Japan, group tours do not include hotel pick-up. Travellers will be required to make their own way to a designated meeting point where they will join the guide and tour group. If you prefer the convenience of hotel pick-up and a fully personalised experience, you have the option to upgrade to a private tour with your own dedicated guide. Additional charges will apply for private tours and are subject to availability.

Booking on Request:
Please note that all reservations are processed upon request. A deposit may be required to request the room. Confirmation will be provided within 24 hours of your booking inquiry. If your preferred dates are unavailable, we’ll suggest suitable alternatives or promptly refund your deposit.

Dynamic Pricing:
Please be aware that many hotels in Japan operate on dynamic pricing. Due to high demand, particularly during peak seasons, room rates can fluctuate based on occupancy levels. As a result, prices may change from the time of your original quote until payment is received and the booking is confirmed.
We recommend securing your accommodation as early as possible to lock in the quoted rates. If your selected accommodation is no longer available at the time of booking, we will offer alternative options of similar cost, comfort level, and location whenever possible.

Itinerary Order and Availability:
Please note that the order of the itinerary may be subject to change to ensure availability of accommodation and day tour experiences. While we aim to follow the proposed itinerary as closely as possible, slight adjustments may be necessary depending on availability at the time of booking.
The final order of day tours and activities will be confirmed and locked in once your booking is secured. For bookings made outside of peak travel periods and with sufficient lead time, itinerary changes are unlikely. However, during busy seasons or for last-minute bookings, some flexibility may be required to accommodate availability.
Rest assured, any adjustments will be made with the aim of maintaining the quality and overall experience of your journey.

Payment Terms:
Should an additional deposit be necessary after your booking confirmation, you will receive a notification. However, please note that full payment for the guest stay is prepaid and must be settled at least 45 days before the arrival date.

Changes & Cancellation
Deposit is non-refundable once the booking is confirmed.
Changes are permitted up to 35 days prior to departure.
Cancellation fees of 100% will be incurred within 35 days of arrival, unless otherwise stated.
Please note that any Train tickets and Flight tickets part of your itinerary will be non-refundable once confirmed.

PRICE FROM
AU$
9900
per person twin share
● Starts: Tokyo
● Ends: Osaka
● Trip Type: Self Guided Tour with group experience
● Accommodation: 3, 4, or 5-star Hotel
● Transportation: Shared transfers, Rail & Group tour buses

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