9 Days Winter Discovery | Snow Monkey & Anime

Day 1 Tokyo | Arrive in Japan & Check-in Hotel

Welcome to Japan! Japan Deluxe Tours has arranged transportation services to meet you at your airport's arrival lobby and will take you to your hotel. Rest at the hotel and be ready to start your exciting tour tomorrow.


**INFORMATION**
From Narita Airport to downtown hotel in Tokyo - about 90 mins(Bus)
From Haneda Airport to downtown hotel in Tokyo - about 30 mins(Bus)

Day 2 Tokyo | Meet Your Favorite Iconic Anime Characters

Our journey kicks off with a thrilling visit to Shinjuku's iconic Godzilla Head, where we'll witness the colossal figure looming over the cityscape, reminiscent of scenes from the classic film.

Next, we'll ascend the towering heights of Kabukicho Tower for an immersive TOKYO MATRIX experience, where cutting-edge technology transports us into a futuristic world.

Afterward, we'll explore the vibrant streets of Harajuku's Takeshita Street, a bustling hub of fashion, culture, and trendy sweets. Here, we'll indulge in delicious and Instagram-worthy treats, sampling the latest and most popular sweets that Harajuku has to offer.

Then, we'll dive into the world of gaming and manga with visits to Tokyo Nintendo Store, Jump Shop, and Capcom Store, where we'll find an array of merchandise and memorabilia from our favorite franchises.

In Akihabara, we'll have the opportunity to freely explore and browse through various shops, including Tamashii Nations, as well as shops selling nostalgic games and gachapon machines. Additionally, we'll discover maid cafes and animal cafes, offering unique experiences.

Day 3 Tokyo | The Ghibli Museum & Ikebukuro's Anime Culture Hub

Our journey begins with an enchanting visit to the Ghibli Museum, designed by the renowned animator Hayao Miyazaki, where we'll immerse ourselves in the whimsical worlds of his famous films. Here, we'll encounter iconic landmarks like the statue of Laputa and the Catbus from "My Neighbor Totoro," adding to the magical atmosphere.

Next, we'll venture to Nakano Broadway, a treasure trove of nostalgic anime, manga, and figures, where we'll unearth a plethora of goods that evoke fond memories.

Afterward, we'll make our way to Anime Tokyo Station, where we can delve into the rich history of anime and enjoy various screenings and exhibits. Here, we'll also encounter life-sized Naruto characters, adding to the immersive experience.

Then, we'll indulge in Pokémon-themed sweets at the Pokémon Café and browse for exclusive merchandise at the Pokémon Center, where we'll find a variety of delightful treats and souvenirs.

Continuing our adventure, we'll visit Animate, the flagship store in Ikebukuro, where we'll find a vast selection of anime goods, including manga, DVDs, and character goods.

Finally, we'll conclude our day at Mugiwara Store, a paradise for fans of One Piece, where we'll find an array of merchandise featuring the beloved characters from the series.

Day 4 Nagano | Snow Monkeys in Sight

Today is the day you've been waiting for during your Winter Japan Tour! It's off to the remarkable Jigokudani Monkey Park in Yudanaka. Home to the popular snow monkeys, Jigokudani is best place to go in all Japan to see cute, furry snow monkey bathing in the natural Japanese hot-springs. Unlike other breeds of monkey, the snow monkey are capable of handling much colder temperatures, and are only found in Japan thanks to the abundance of natural Japanese hot-springs. Although some monkey prefer to stay in the mountains, tourists flock to Jigokudani to see snow monkey bathing special designated hot springs meant just for them. Some of the snow monkeys may have a little mound of snow on top of their heads, but they never seem to mind as long as they can unwind in the hot-springs.

Yudanaka is also a popular hot-springs resort, offering a traditional atmosphere in the mountains of Japan. Admire the stunning scenery of the Japanese mountains while traveling to see adorable snow monkeys. Stop by for a relaxing free foot-bath during your vacation or pause to pick up some traditional Japanese souvenirs or snacks while touring this charming mountain town. After following your tour guide through Yudanaka, we will then return to the hotel.

Day 5 Tokyo | Trendy Anime meets Historic Asakusa

We start off our Tokyo tour with a visit to Tokyo's Tsukiji Fish Market, the former home of the world-famous tuna auction. Browse through the freshest flavors, mouth-watering dishes, and incredible sushi meals at this market that serves over thousands of businesses and local families daily before we explore the rest of the sights in Tokyo!

The tour will then head to the old town district of Asakusa where you can purchase traditional Japanese souvenirs at the Nakamise area and explore Senso-ji Temple, the oldest and the most popular temples in Tokyo.

For lunch, enjoy a Japanese seasonal dining experience.

Then we are off to Harajuku to explore the famous Takeshita Street and Omotesando area. The area is filled with cute shops, delicious crepes, high end stores, and beautiful cafés and restaurants. Don't forget to check out the Cat Café and Headgehog café for those who love animals.

We will then make our way to the famous Shibuya Crosswalk to be part of the thousands who cross daily. This crosswalk gathers as much foot traffic as New York City, and crossing is an experience unlike any other.

To conclude our day, we'll venture to TeamLab, an immersive digital art museum where art, technology, and nature converge to create breathtaking installations. As we wander through this mesmerizing space, we'll be transported to otherworldly realms, experiencing art in a whole new dimension.

Day 6 Hakone & Mt. Fuji View | Immerse in Traditional Japanese Culture

Our morning begins with a relaxing ride on the Hakone Ropeway down to Owakudani Valley. The ropeway provides a scenic view of the Hakone area including Lake Ashi and, if weather permits, Mt. Fuji. We will explore Owakudani for a short amount of time when you arrive, giving you enough time to marvel at the active natural volcanic vents as well as try the black egg, boiled in one of the vents. It is said that eating one of these eggs will add 7 years to your life.

We continue with the nature theme as we make our way to the Hakone Open Air Museum, the first of its kind in Japan. Housing numerous works of art by well-known modern and contemporary artist and sculptors including Picasso, the ever changing scenery with the seasons provide visitors with a memorable experience.

The bullet train is the fastest way to travel on land and is considered an essential Japanese experience. Enjoy riding to Kyoto in comfort and speed, and be sure to take some photos of the scenery during your ride.

Day 7 Kyoto | Breathtaking Maiko Show & Bamboo Forest

Today, our Kyoto tour begins with a visit to Arashiyama to walk through the Bamboo Groove Forest. The morning's sunlight passing through the bamboo makes for a perfect morning sight. We will also enjoy a spirited rickshaw ride through Arashiyama. Guests can enjoy seeing many of the traditional-style shops and temples during the ride. Following our time in Arashiyama, we will head to the Golden Pavilion, or Kinkakuji Temple, a Japan’s must see attraction where the two upper floors are covered in gold leaf. The reflection of the golden temple on the lake adds to the stunning sight.

We head out to the ancient street of Ninenzaka. The street is filled with shops and souvenir stands as well as a great place for photos and to see what Japan looked like many years ago. We will also partake in a hands-on lesson on the tea ceremony. Learn about the history and meaning behind the ceremony as you watch it being performed before your eyes. Try your hand at making a traditional cup of matcha.

Next, enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience with a Maiko. Maiko are apprentice to Geisha and it is a great chance to take photos and learn about Kyoto's traditional culture. After we take our photos, we then proceed to the hotel.

Day 8 Kyoto & Nara | Meet & Greet the friendly Deer of Nara

We will start heading to Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of Kyoto's many can't miss destinations that features hundreds of red tori gates. The path is perfect for photos or just to calm your mind.

Afterwards, it's off to Nara to Todaiji Temple. Todaiji Temple holds the World Guinness Record as the largest wooden building. Inside the temple, you will behold the largest Buddha statue in Japan. Just outside the temple is the Nara Deer Park, where you will be greeted by numerous deer that roam around freely. The deer here at the park are known to be friendly and may even bow at you for a little treat.

Day 9 Osaka | Tour Disbands & Depart from Japan

Your pleasant and memorable Japan tour ends today. The tour will disband after breakfast. Fly home with cherished memories or enjoy your extended stay in Japan.

**INFORMATION**
From downtown hotel in Osaka to KIX Airport - about 70 mins (Bus)
From downtown hotel in Osaka to ITM Airport - about 30 mins (Bus)