- 4.9/5 508 Latest reviews
- Destination: Japan, China
- Duration: 11 Days
- Tour Type: Private & Bespoke
- Tour Style: Classic
About This Trip
Embark on an 11-day journey through Japan and Hong Kong. Begin in Tokyo, immersing yourself in its dynamic culinary scene and visiting cultural treasures such as Meiji Jingu Shrine and Senso-ji Temple. Take scenic day trips to Mt. Fuji and Nara to enjoy stunning landscapes and discover rich historical heritage. In Kyoto, participate in a traditional tea ceremony and explore the fascinating history of the samurai. Osaka offers a lively atmosphere and is a paradise for food lovers, where you can indulge in local specialties and vibrant street life. Conclude your trip by exploring Hong Kong’s famous attractions and enjoy a day excursion to Macau to experience its unique blend of cultures.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 8
Japan
Tokyo: Meiji Jingu, Senso-ji Temple, Shinjuku Gyoen
Kawaguchiko: Mt. Fuji, Cruise on Lake Kawaguchi, Arakurayama Sengen Park
Kyoto: Fushimi-Inari Taisha, Kinkaku-ji Temple
Nara: Todai-Ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Osaka: Osaka Castle, Shinsaibashi Shopping District
9 - 11
China
Hong Kong: Victoria Peak, Repulse Bay, Stanley Market, Tai Kwun
Macau: Macau Tower, A-Ma Temple, The Ruins of St. Paul's, Senado Square
Hong Kong: Departure
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo – Welcome to Japan’s Capital
Step into Tokyo, the dynamic heart of Japan! Upon arrival, an airport assistant will greet you holding a sign with your name to ensure a smooth and friendly welcome.
After a transfer by shuttle to your hotel, take some time to rest and recover from your flight. If you prefer, you can join an evening food tour in Shinjuku to explore the city’s bustling culinary scene, sampling delights such as Omakase sushi and premium wagyu beef yakiniku.
- Tokyo
- Day 2: Tokyo City Exploration
Begin your Tokyo sightseeing at Meiji Jingu, a serene shrine surrounded by lush forest, built in 1920 to honor Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Join the locals in offering prayers and making wishes at the main shrine.
Next, visit Shinjuku Gyoen, one of Tokyo’s most beautiful spots to view cherry blossoms in spring. The park boasts expansive lawns, winding paths, neatly trimmed gardens, and over 60 varieties of cherry trees.
Afterward, explore Harajuku, Tokyo’s vibrant hub of youth fashion and kawaii culture. Wander through streets filled with dessert stalls serving rainbow cotton candy and crepes, and browse boutiques showcasing quirky and colorful clothing. You might even spot Decora kei fans with flamboyant wigs and accessories, or lolita enthusiasts in elegant dresses.
Continue north to the historic Asakusa District and visit Senso-ji, one of Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temples, dating back to the 7th century. Walk along Nakamise Street, lined with shops offering traditional souvenirs, snacks, and sweets, then pass through the Hozomon Gate to reach the temple’s main hall and five-story pagoda. Pay respects to the Kannon statue, draw an omikuji (fortune slip), and take a guided stroll around Asakusa to learn about the district’s rich history and culture.
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- Tokyo
- Day 3: Tokyo – Mt. Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi Day Trip
Embark on a thrilling day trip from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji, Japan’s iconic and still-active volcano. After approximately a 90-minute drive, arrive at Arakurayama Sengen Park, where you can photograph the striking Chureito Pagoda with Mt. Fuji rising majestically in the background. In spring, the pagoda is framed by vibrant pink cherry blossoms, allowing you to capture three quintessential Japanese symbols in a single shot.
In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Kawaguchi, taking in the stunning views of Mt. Fuji from the water. Alternatively, ride the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway to an observation deck near Mount Tenjo’s summit for sweeping vistas of the lake and the surrounding landscape. On the way back, visit the Fuji Gotemba Distillery, one of the few distilleries worldwide producing both malt and grain whiskies, and learn about the intricate distillation process before sampling a glass. Return to Tokyo in the evening and enjoy some free time to relax at your hotel.
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- Tokyo
- Day 4: Tokyo – Kyoto via Shinkansen Bullet Train
This morning, make your way to the train station to board the Shinkansen bullet train bound for Kyoto. After a swift journey of approximately 2.5 hours, arrive in Kyoto and proceed to your hotel to complete check-in and settle in.
In the afternoon, enjoy an iconic Japanese cultural experience: the traditional Tea Ceremony, known as “chanoyu” or “sado.” Typically held in a tatami-matted tearoom, this ceremony teaches the art of preparing and savoring matcha green tea. Don a kimono, learn about Zen principles embodied in the tea ritual, and sample delicate Japanese sweets as part of this classic and immersive experience.
After the tea ceremony, take a short five-minute walk to the Samurai & Ninja Museum. Try on authentic-looking samurai armor for memorable photos and explore a variety of replica swords. Gain insight into the life of Japan’s elite warrior class, learning the proper way to hold and sheath a katana while appreciating the honor and discipline of the samurai tradition.
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- Kyoto
- Day 5: Kyoto – Kinkaku-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Shrine
Kyoto, renowned for its temples, shrines, palaces, and beautifully landscaped gardens, is often regarded as Japan’s cultural heart. Begin today’s tour at Kinkaku-ji, the celebrated Golden Pavilion, which gleams above a serene pond with a forested hill providing a stunning backdrop. The top two stories are entirely covered in gold leaf, while the first floor features white plaster walls and wooden pillars, creating a striking contrast.
Next, visit Nijo Castle, originally built as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo era (1603–1867). Explore the Ninomaru Palace with its intricate interiors and elegant decorations, and take a leisurely stroll through the castle gardens, enjoying the shaded walkways and peaceful atmosphere.
Continue to Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its appearance in the film Memoirs of a Geisha. The shrine boasts over 10,000 iconic red torii gates, each donated by individuals or businesses in gratitude to the deity Inari. You can choose to take a gentle hike along the torii-covered path up the mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
For those wishing to explore more of Kyoto after the main tour, consider visiting Nishiki Ichiba, affectionately called “Kyoto’s Kitchen.” This bustling market street is lined with over 100 shops and stalls selling everything from local specialties like soy milk doughnuts, skewered octopus, mochi, fish cakes, and Uji green tea, to various condiments, cookware, and traditional ceramics.
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- Kyoto
- Day 6: Nara Excursion from Kyoto
Located about 50 kilometers south of Kyoto, Nara was Japan’s first permanent capital and is now a city rich in World Heritage temples, peaceful parklands, and freely roaming deer.
Begin your morning at Nara Park with your guide, where deer wander openly across the lawns. Take some time to feed these friendly animals before continuing to Todai-ji Temple. Built in 752, this historically significant temple houses a colossal 15-meter-tall bronze Buddha (Daibutsu) in its main hall, making it one of Japan’s most iconic spiritual sites.
Next, visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine to gain insight into Shinto traditions. Established around the same era as Nara itself, the shrine showcases the distinctive Kasuga-zukuri architectural style. The approach is lined with elegant stone lanterns, while bronze lanterns hang from the eaves of the vermilion main sanctuary, creating a striking and memorable visual impression. After exploring the shrine, return to Kyoto for your overnight stay.
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- Kyoto
- Day 7: Kyoto to Osaka – Osaka Castle & Culinary Streets
Today, depart Kyoto and take the train to Osaka. After a quick journey of roughly 30 minutes, arrive in this vibrant city, leaving the remainder of the day free for independent exploration of its main attractions.
Start with Osaka Castle, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a testament to the fierce battles that shaped Japan prior to the Edo period in 1603. Wander through the castle grounds, admire its architectural beauty, and learn about the fascinating history of its multiple reconstructions.
Next, head to Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade, a bustling 600-meter-long street lined with shops catering to every taste—from traditional kimono stores and international fashion boutiques to jewelry shops and restaurants. Continue to nearby Dotonbori for an unforgettable culinary adventure. Sample a variety of local specialties such as conveyor belt sushi, grilled crab, beef shabu-shabu, deep-fried skewers of meat and vegetables, takoyaki (octopus balls), and taiyaki (fish-shaped red bean desserts), ensuring a true taste of Osaka’s lively food scene.
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- Osaka
- Day 8: Osaka to Hong Kong – Arrival & Evening at Leisure
Today, transfer to the airport for your flight to Hong Kong. Direct flights typically take around 4 hours, while those with a stopover may require 7 hours or more. Upon landing, a private vehicle will take you to your hotel for check-in. Relax and enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace.
Hong Kong offers endless experiences for independent exploration. You might choose to discover a local neighborhood restaurant and taste authentic street-style dishes, browse a bustling night market for unique souvenirs and bargains, or admire the sparkling city skyline from a rooftop bar, soaking in the vibrant nighttime atmosphere.
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- Hong Kong
- Day 9: Hong Kong Island – Scenic Views & Cultural Exploration
Today, explore the highlights of Hong Kong Island from north to south. Begin with a ride on the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak, the island’s highest point at over 550 meters. The 10-minute journey offers breathtaking vistas of the city’s skyline and harbor. Continue to Repulse Bay on the southern coast, famous for its expansive ocean views. Your guide will share the history of the area, which transformed from a quiet seaside spot into one of the most sought-after and expensive residential neighborhoods in the world.
Next, experience a traditional sampan ride at Aberdeen. Here, many fishing families continue to live on houseboats, and cruising through the harbor gives you an intimate look at their daily lives. Afterwards, visit the vibrant Stanley Market, where narrow lanes are filled with stalls selling clothes, handicrafts, and souvenirs. You can browse, bargain, and pick up unique keepsakes to remember your visit.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s cultural scene at Tai Kwun. Housed in historic buildings over a century old, the complex offers exhibitions and insights into the city’s art and heritage. Just nearby, explore Man Mo Temple, taking in its serene atmosphere and iconic hanging incense coils. Conclude the day at Golden Bauhinia Square, a prime spot to enjoy panoramic views of Victoria Harbour and the glittering skyscrapers along the waterfront.
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- Hong Kong
- Day 10: Hong Kong – Macau Day Excursion
Spend the day exploring the vibrant city of Macau on a full-day adventure! Take the TurboJET ferry and arrive in just about one hour in this unique city known for its cultural blend. Marvel at the towering Macau Tower, rising over 330 meters, and visit the historic A-Ma Temple, where Confucian, Buddhist, Taoist, and local folk traditions converge. Stop by the Ruins of St. Paul’s, with its 25-meter-high granite façade decorated with Jesuit saints, Chinese inscriptions, Japanese chrysanthemums, and other intricate carvings—a remarkable reminder of Macau’s past as a bustling 16th-century trading port.
Next, stroll through Senado Square and admire the nearby Leal Senado building, a two-story neo-classical structure that reflects Macau’s colonial heritage. Continue to Taipa Village and wander along the lively Cunha Street, famous for its local delicacies such as creamy egg tarts, savory pork jerky, almond cakes, and chewy curry fish balls. Enjoy sampling street food at your own expense before visiting one of Macau’s renowned casinos, including The Venetian Macao or MGM Macau.
In the evening, return to Hong Kong aboard the TurboJET for roughly a one-hour ride. The remainder of the evening is at your leisure to relax or explore Hong Kong on your own.
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- Hong Kong
- Day 11: Hong Kong – Farewell & Departure
Your journey through Japan and Hong Kong comes to an end today. At the scheduled time, your private driver will transfer you to the airport for your flight home or onward to your next destination. Wishing you a smooth journey and safe travels!
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