Best of Japan Tour: Tokyo Kyoto Osaka Hakone
Tokyo’s spark, Kyoto’s soul, Osaka’s flavor. One journey through Japan’s timeless and modern worlds.
Best Time to Travel
March to May
September to November
Places covered
Tokyo | Kyoto | Osaka | Hakone | Nagano
Tour Duration
11 Nights
Starting from
₹ 3,70,000 / person
Destination Highlights
Embark on a journey that reveals Japan’s soul. Explore Tokyo’s neon streets and anime culture, Kyoto’s serene temples, and Osaka’s legendary food scene. Discover cherry blossoms in bloom, historic castles, bullet trains, and craft traditions that shape everyday life. This curated experience blends heritage, modernity, and must-see icons into one unforgettable introduction to Japan.
Mount Fuji Cruise
Glide across tranquil waters for iconic views of Mount Fuji, reflecting majestically on the lake’s surface.
Monkey Onsen
Witness adorable wild macaques bathing in natural hot springs amidst a snowy landscape.
Cherry Blossom Spectacle
Witness the ephemeral beauty of Japan’s iconic cherry blossoms, transforming landscapes into a pink wonderland.
Iconic Rail Journeys
Experience Japan’s renowned efficiency and scenic beauty on its legendary bullet trains and picturesque local lines.
Vacation Style
Cultural Seekers
Ideal for those who love timeless heritage tales.
Architecture Enthusiasts
Perfect for admiring innovative modern designs and traditional structures.
Food Enthusiasts
For those eager to savor authentic regional flavors & class culinary artistry.
Exotic Experience Seekers
Those seeking unique, immersive adventures beyond the touristy paths.
Experiences for the Five Senses
Exclusive Geisha Encounter & Tea Ceremony
Delve into the refined world of Geisha with a private meeting in Kyoto, where you can witness their elegant artistry, learn about their traditions, and enjoy a brief performance. Following this, participate in a traditional tea ceremony, learning the intricate rituals, the significance of each gesture, and enjoying the serene atmosphere of a meticulously choreographed tea preparation.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Inclusions: Boat tour, guide, park permits, snorkeling gear, lunch
Why Experience This: To connect deeply with Japan’s elegant traditions and serene cultural practices.
Osaka Street Food Tour Bites of Osaka
Wander through Osaka’s vibrant Dotonbori district with a local connoisseur who introduces you to iconic dishes like Takoyaki, Okonomiyaki, and Kushikatsu. Stop at hidden gems known for generations. Hear stories behind flavors, recipes, and family legacies that have shaped Osaka’s culinary identity. A journey that satisfies your curiosity and your palate.
Duration: 4-5 hours
Inclusions: Tastings, guide, hygiene-tested stops Why experience this: Satisfy your palate and curiosity in equal measure.
Why Experience This: Because you can satiate your palate and culinary curiosity in equal measure.
Learn the Way of the Samurai
Immerse yourself in Japan’s warrior history with a hands-on lesson in the fundamental movements and philosophy of the Samurai. Under the guidance of a skilled instructor, experience a taste of this ancient martial art, including basic sword techniques (using practice swords) and an introduction to Samurai etiquette.
Duration: 2 hours
Inclusions: Reserved seating, waterfall access, food and drink credit
Why Experience This: To gain a unique understanding of Japan’s warrior spirit and ancient discipline.
The Art of Bonsai & Flower Arrangement (Ikebana)
Discover the delicate beauty and meticulous techniques of two traditional Japanese arts. Learn the principles of cultivating miniature trees in Bonsai, including pruning and shaping techniques, and the harmonious arrangement of flowers in Ikebana, exploring the concepts of balance and symbolism.
Duration: Half day
Inclusions: Bonsai demonstration and basic workshop (may include creating a small arrangement), Ikebana instruction and creation of a floral arrangement, materials for both activities.
Why Experience This: To discover the meticulous beauty and meditative harmony of traditional Japanese arts.
Experience a Sumo Practice Session
Witness the power and tradition of Japan’s national sport by observing a morning practice session (Keiko) at a Sumo stable (Heya). Gain insight into the rigorous training, discipline, and daily life of these athletes. Please note that access to stables is a privilege and availability can vary significantly.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Inclusions: Observation of a Sumo practice session, brief explanation of Sumo wrestling rules and customs.
Why Experience This: For a rare glimpse into the rigorous world of Japan’s national sport.
Hanami and Japanese Calligraphy
During the cherry blossom season (Hanami), enjoy a traditional flower viewing picnic in a scenic spot known for its blossoms. Following the picnic, participate in a Japanese calligraphy (Shodo) class, learning the basics of brushstrokes, character writing, and the art of using a traditional brush and ink.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Inclusions: Hanami picnic (may include bento box lunch), calligraphy instruction, use of calligraphy tools and materials, practice sheets.
Why Experience This: For a unique blend of seasonal beauty and classic Japanese artistry.
Festivals to Experience
- Cherry Blossom Festival (March-April): Experience Japan bathed in delicate pink hues as cherry blossoms bloom nationwide.
- Gion Matsuri (July): Kyoto's most famous festival, featuring grand parades of elaborate floats and traditional performances.
- Autumn Leaf Viewing (October-November): Witness Japan's landscapes explode in vibrant reds, oranges, and golds.
- New Year (Shogatsu - January): Participate in traditional customs, temple visits, and family celebrations.
FAQs
When should I not visit Japan?
While Japan has distinct charms year-round, the peak of the rainy season (Tsuyu), typically in June and early July, can bring persistent rain and high humidity, which some travelers might find less enjoyable for extensive outdoor activities. Additionally, the Golden Week holidays (late April to early May) are a major domestic travel period, leading to higher prices and crowded attractions.
How many days do you recommend for a tour of Japan?
For a well-paced introduction to Japan, 10 to 14 days works best. It allows time to explore Tokyo’s modern culture, Kyoto’s temples and tea traditions, Osaka’s food scene, and a scenic escape to Hakone for Mount Fuji views. You’re not rushing through bucket-list highlights, yet still have space to slow down and enjoy the details.
Which destinations does this itinerary cover and what makes them special?
Tokyo offers futuristic cityscapes, anime districts, and incredible dining. Kyoto brings serene shrines, geisha streets, and traditional craftsmanship. Osaka adds bustling markets, neon nightlife, and Japan’s top street food. Hakone lets you unwind in hot springs, ride cable cars, and spot Mount Fuji on a clear day. You can also take easy day trips to Nara for friendly deer and ancient temples or Hiroshima for powerful history and the iconic Miyajima Torii.
When is the best time to travel to Japan?
March to May and mid-September to November are ideal. The weather is pleasant, skies are clearer, and outdoor sightseeing feels enjoyable. Winter offers magical snow landscapes, while summer brings energetic festivals — but also higher humidity and crowds.
What is special about cherry blossom and autumn foliage season in Japan?
Cherry blossom season (late March to mid-April) transforms cities into soft pink dreamscapes where locals gather to celebrate life under blooming sakura trees. Autumn (late October to late November) paints temples, gardens, and mountains in fiery red and gold. Both seasons offer unforgettable scenery, limited-time foods, and a festive mood across Japan.
What other destinations can I add beyond the ones in this tour?
Kanazawa is ideal for art museums, samurai districts, and Japan’s most beautiful landscaped garden. Nagano offers snow monkeys, serene alpine villages, and great winter experiences. Nagoya blends manufacturing innovation, feudal castles, and easy access to theme parks like Ghibli Park. These additions deepen the cultural and scenic diversity of your trip.
Is this tour suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers?
Yes. Families love the mix of fun districts, interactive museums, and wildlife encounters. Couples get scenic romance, boutique stays, and culinary discoveries. Solo travelers find Japan incredibly safe, efficient, and friendly to navigate.
Can I find vegetarian or Indian food during the tour?
Absolutely. Major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto offer plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and Indian dining options. We guide you to restaurants that suit your dietary preferences so you don’t have to compromise on flavor while exploring Japanese cuisine.
What types of accommodations are provided throughout the tour?
A curated mix of centrally located hotels and boutique stays that keep you close to the action. Based on preference, you can also include a traditional ryokan with tatami rooms, yukata robes, and onsen hot springs for a true Japanese cultural stay.
How do travelers get between cities?
High-speed trains (Shinkansen) make travel fast, scenic, and comfortable. You glide between Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka in a few hours, with station-to-hotel access managed for a hassle-free journey.
What is a Shinkansen and how do luggage restrictions work?
The Shinkansen is Japan’s world-famous bullet train known for punctuality and speed. Larger suitcases require prior seat-back storage reservation, but there’s a simple solution — you can take the luggage forwarding service from your hotel desk so bags are sent ahead to your next hotel while you travel light.
Can this tour be booked as a DIY travel plan or only as a packaged tour?
Yes, we provide both tailor-made and DIY options. Tailor-made itineraries allow complete customization based on your pace, interests, and travel style, while our DIY option comes with a planning fee to guide you with a detailed itinerary and suggestions.
Do I need a visa, travel insurance, and how is connectivity during the trip?
Many nationalities, including Indian passport holders, require an advance tourist visa for Japan. Travel insurance is strongly recommended for medical and trip-related coverage. Connectivity is excellent thanks to widespread Wi-Fi, prepaid SIM cards, and pocket Wi-Fi devices — staying online is effortless throughout your journey. For detailed guidance on visas, insurance, and connectivity, please refer to our Japan destination page.