Start your unforgettable day in Kyoto with a guided visit to the scenic Arashiyama district, a favorite destination among both locals and international visitors. Stroll through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where sunlight filters through towering green stalks — a magical setting that perfectly captures the beauty of traditional Japan.

Continue your exploration with a fun and memorable rickshaw ride through Arashiyama. As you’re pulled along quiet lanes and riverside paths, enjoy views of historic temples, quaint bridges, and Kyoto's natural charm, all while learning about the area from your friendly guide.

Next, the tour heads to Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. This stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its brilliant gold-covered exterior, reflected beautifully on the mirror-like pond that surrounds it. It’s a must-see highlight of any Kyoto tour.

After lunch, immerse yourself in history at the Kyoto Samurai & Ninja Museum. Perfect for all ages, this interactive museum lets you learn about Japan’s legendary warriors. Enjoy hands-on experiences like wearing armor or handling replica swords as you gain insight into samurai culture and ninja traditions.

Conclude your day with a cultural highlight — a Maiko Dining experience. Enjoy a traditional Kyoto-style meal while watching a performance by a Maiko, an apprentice Geisha. Her elegant dance and gracious presence offer a unique opportunity to experience Kyoto’s living heritage in an authentic and memorable setting.

Begin your day with a scenic stroll along Ninenzaka, one of Kyoto’s most charming historical streets. Lined with preserved traditional machiya townhouses, this stone-paved slope offers a nostalgic glimpse into old Kyoto and is the perfect backdrop for photos and souvenir shopping.

From there, travel to Nara to explore the world-famous Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the temple’s massive wooden structure and its breathtaking Great Buddha statue — one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in Japan. Just outside, enjoy time at Nara Deer Park, where over a thousand free-roaming deer — considered sacred messengers of the gods — create a delightful and uniquely Japanese experience. Many will even bow for treats!

Next, return to Kyoto for a soothing break with a traditional matcha tasting experience. Enjoy the rich, earthy flavors of finely whisked Japanese green tea in a serene setting, perfect for a moment of cultural reflection and relaxation.

Continue your journey with a visit to the elegant Byodo-in Temple in Uji. This stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its Phoenix Hall, which appears on Japan’s 10-yen coin. Surrounded by tranquil gardens and mirror-like ponds, the temple offers a serene example of Heian-era architecture and spiritual beauty.

Conclude your day at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Walk beneath the thousands of vermilion torii gates that wind their way up the mountainside — a mesmerizing and symbolic path that represents prosperity and good fortune. It's one of Japan’s most photogenic and spiritually powerful sites.

Today, we journey to Hakone, one of the most popular weekend getaway destinations from Tokyo. Known for its stunning natural beauty, geothermal activity, and iconic views of Mt. Fuji, Hakone offers a unique retreat just outside Japan’s bustling capital.

Our day begins with a ride on the world-renowned Shinkansen (Bullet Train), the fastest and most comfortable way to travel across Japan. Enjoy a smooth and efficient journey, complete with picturesque landscapes along the route.

Next, we ascend on the Hakone Ropeway, a scenic aerial cable car offering breathtaking views of the Hakone region. On clear days, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Mt. Fuji. The ropeway leads us to the famous Owakudani Valley, an active volcanic zone where you can witness sulfur smoke rising from natural vents. Take time to explore this otherworldly landscape and try the legendary black egg (Kuro-tamago), boiled in the hot springs — it’s said that eating one can add seven years to your life.

After a refreshing lunch, we visit the acclaimed Hakone Open-Air Museum. Stroll through beautifully curated gardens and admire a remarkable collection of sculptures by both Japanese and international artists, set against the scenic backdrop of Hakone’s lush nature.

Begin your memorable Tokyo city tour with a culinary exploration at the bustling Tsukiji Outer Market, the historic site once famed for its renowned tuna auctions. Dive into a vibrant array of fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and local delicacies. From expertly made sushi to freshly grilled seafood skewers, this lively market is the perfect starting point to savor the authentic tastes of Tokyo.

Your journey continues to the iconic Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world. Experience the exhilarating rush as you cross alongside hundreds of others, and don't miss the nearby Hachiko Statue, a beloved symbol of loyalty and devotion in Japanese culture. This energetic district is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience modern Tokyo at its liveliest.

For lunch, delight in a specially arranged Japanese seasonal meal curated by culinary experts. Depending on the time of year, enjoy a menu that features local specialties.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the historical charm of Asakusa, home to the renowned Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Wander down the colorful Nakamise shopping street, where you can browse for traditional souvenirs and sample popular treats such as ningyo-yaki and matcha-flavored sweets. The district's timeless atmosphere and classic architecture offer a window into old Tokyo.

End your day at the mesmerizing teamLab Planets TOKYO, a cutting-edge immersive art space that combines digital technology, light installations, water features, and natural elements. Walk barefoot through stunning interactive exhibits that react to your touch, creating a truly multi-sensory journey. It’s a brilliant showcase of Japanese creativity and a spectacular way to conclude your Tokyo experience.

Kick off your exciting Tokyo pop-culture tour in style with a visit to Nintendo Tokyo, the official flagship store for all things Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon. Located in Shibuya Parco, this gamer’s paradise offers exclusive merchandise and interactive displays perfect for any Nintendo fan.

Just steps away, visit the CAPCOM Store Tokyo and JUMP SHOP, where you can pick up limited-edition items from blockbuster franchises like Resident Evil, Street Fighter, One Piece, and Demon Slayer. These stores are a dream come true for gamers and anime lovers alike.

Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant youth culture of Harajuku. Walk down the famous Takeshita Street, home to colorful fashion boutiques, cosplay shops, and some of the most Instagrammable sweets in Tokyo. Try fluffy crepes, rainbow cotton candy, or the latest seasonal dessert trend curated by local foodies.

In the afternoon, experience high-tech wonder at THE TOKYO MATRIX inside Kabukicho Tower — an immersive entertainment zone that brings gaming, storytelling, and augmented reality to life. Then, step outside to visit the towering Godzilla Head, a larger-than-life tribute to Japan’s most famous monster, perched atop Hotel Gracery in Shinjuku.

Your cultural journey continues with a peaceful stop at Kanda Shrine, a historic Shinto site popular among anime fans and tech workers. It’s also known for its connection to the Love Live! anime series and is a photogenic gem amid the urban sprawl.

We then head to the heart of otaku culture: Akihabara. Start with Tamashii Nations Store Tokyo for premium anime figures and collectibles, followed by a visit to Super Potato—a retro gaming treasure trove packed with nostalgic consoles and vintage titles (highly recommended by JDT!).

Cap off your anime and gaming adventure with a fun stop at a maid café—an experience unique to Akihabara, where waitresses dressed in maid costumes provide a playful and entertaining dining experience. It’s a quirky, unforgettable taste of modern Japanese pop culture.

After a full day of excitement, we return to your hotel to rest and reflect on your unforgettable anime and gaming-filled Tokyo adventure.

Step into the world of Japanese animation with a visit to the Ghibli Museum, a must-see destination for fans of Studio Ghibli and Hayao Miyazaki’s imaginative works. Located in Mitaka, this enchanting museum features original animation exhibits, exclusive short films, and beloved characters like Totoro and the Laputa robot. This immersive experience offers a magical introduction to the world of Japanese anime.

Next, dive into retro and modern collectibles at Nakano Broadway, Tokyo’s hidden paradise for anime, manga, and otaku culture. From rare vintage items to modern figurines and model kits, this shopping complex is a treasure trove for collectors and enthusiasts alike, offering a nostalgic journey through Japanese pop culture.

We’ll then head to the bustling Ikebukuro district to explore the iconic Animate flagship store, Japan’s largest anime retailer. Discover an endless array of manga, anime DVDs, character merchandise, and cosplay goods — perfect for anyone looking to take a piece of their favorite series home.

Continue your anime adventure with a visit to the Pokémon Center, a paradise for fans of Pikachu and friends. Here, you can shop for exclusive Pokémon merchandise and stop by the adorable Pikachu Sweets Café to enjoy themed desserts that are as tasty as they are Instagram-worthy.

Finally, wrap up your day with some fun at a Gacha Gacha capsule toy machine corner, where you’ll find hundreds of unique capsule toys featuring your favorite anime characters. These vending machines are a quintessential part of Japanese pop culture and make for fun, affordable souvenirs.

We have cleared up the day for you to explore and enjoy Japan as you wish.

During this time, you can also:

• Spend the day at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea


• Visit the newly opened Yokohama Gundam Factory


• Explore teamLab Borderless


• Shop at the Sailor Moon Store