10 Nights in Tokyo, Kyoto & Hakone Holiday

Upon arrival at the airport, a private driver will transfer you to the city, where you'll be staying at Gate Hotel Tokyo. An elegant boutique hotel nestled in the heart of the vibrant Ginza district. It boasts panoramic city views and is conveniently located near upscale shopping and dining establishments. The hotel is the ideal retreat for the discerning traveller.

Join your English-speaking guide as you explore the city as a local - via public transport. Begin at Meiji Jingu, a tranquil Shinto shrine, before experiencing the famous, multi-way zebra stripes of Shibuya crossing. There’ll be time before lunch (traditional street food along Nakamise-dori) to absorb the culture of ancient Japan in downtown Asakusa, home to the iconic Senso-ji Temple. Then a short trip east to appreciate the architecture and entertainment of Odaiba before finishing your day admiring cityscape views atop the Tokyo Tower.

Embark on your own tour of Tokyo’s best-kept secrets. We recommend Yanaka Ginza, a retro shopping street, perhaps followed by a visit to Yanaka Cemetery to soak up its serene charm. Meander through the narrow alleyways of Kagurazaka and experience the tranquillity of Kiyosumi Garden. If you’re into kitchenware, Kappabashi Street is a must, or bask in the Bohemian vibe of Shimokitazawa’s trendy boutiques. Rest your feet on a bench in Yoyogi Park’s secret gardens before ending your day at Todoroki Valley, a nature escape in Setagaya.

As evening falls, tantalise your tastebuds with a captivating culinary tour. Let your guide lead you through neon-lit streets to hidden eateries where you can dive into the heart of izakaya culture. Enjoy a medley of mouthwatering dishes, from fresh sashimi to savoury yakitori, and learn the ancient art of sake tasting before heading back to your hotel.

Deep dive into the music and art culture of this vibrant city, starting with a hands-on taiko drumming lesson. This is followed by a mesmerising Kabuki experience at Kabuki-za, where you’ll witness the vibrant costumes and captivating performances that define this classical Japanese art form. This unique day highlights just how important music and art are to Tokyo’s overall cultural richness.

Experience exhilaration as a bullet train whisks you from Tokyo to Kyoto in just two and a half hours, and be amazed as urban landscapes seamlessly give way to scenic vistas. Upon reaching Kyoto, settle into your hotel, the Celestine Gion. Nestled near Higashiyama in Kyoto, this hotel is the perfect blend of modern luxury and traditional culture, with impeccable service, elegant designs and close proximity to iconic landmarks. 

Once settled, your expert guide will meet you to start your half-day tour of Higashiyama. Wander through the historic district and marvel at the ancient temples of Kiyomizu-dera and the iconic Yasaka Pagoda. This is the perfect opportunity to experience Kyoto’s timeless charm, where tradition and modernity meet against a backdrop of cherry blossoms and historic streets. 

Choose one of two captivating excursions - the enchanting Arashiyama or the resplendent Kinkakuji area, immersing yourself in the beauty of bamboo groves or the golden splendour of Kinkaku-ji Temple. After your tour, why not visit Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that echoes centuries of imperial history?

No trip to Japan would be complete without a Samurai Kembu martial arts session. Your expert instructor will unveil the art's rich history and techniques before inviting you to witness a mesmerising professional performance that showcases the elegance and precision of Samurai skills. 

This thrilling morning gives way to a more tranquil afternoon. Experience a time-honoured tea ceremony, complete with traditional dress. Learn more about the world of matcha and rituals as you soak up the grace and elegance of this ancient tradition.

Your day of cultural exploration starts with a scenic local train journey from Kyoto to Nara. Spend time discovering Nara's historic treasures, from the iconic Todai-ji Temple to the shy deer roaming in Nara Park. 

Return to Kyoto in the afternoon, via the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, where you’ll enter through the vermilion torii gates, your every step steeped in centuries of spiritual significance.

Board a bullet train for your two-and-a-half-hour trip from Kyoto to Hakone. Upon arrival, check into the charming Ten-yu Kowakien Ryokan, where modern comforts harmonise with time-honoured customs and warm hospitality. Soothe away the worries of the world in the famous hot springs before enjoying a delicious kaiseki dinner.

Your picturesque day in Hakone National Park sees you tracing the scenic Hakone Loop. Begin by cruising across Lake Ashi while admiring the reflections of Mount Fuji. Ascend the Komagatake Ropeway for panoramic vistas, and explore the historic Hakone Checkpoint, a testament to Japan's Edo Period. 

There will also be the opportunity to appreciate Hakone Open Air Museum's art installations before unwinding in the soothing waters at Yunessun Spa Resort. Later, explore the charming streets of Gora, discovering quaint shops and cafes, before wrapping up your day with a stroll through the Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands. 

Sadly, your 10-night itinerary in Tokyo, Kyoto and Hakone has come to a close. Depending on your flight time, spend your last day exploring, picking up souvenirs or having a last mouthful of tasty Japanese cuisine.

We hope this tour of Japan has opened a window into the culture, history and traditions of the country. We imagine you’ll leave with a camera full of photos and a heart full of memories, but – just as we feel when leaving the land of the rising sun – it won’t be long before you return.