- 4.9/5 533 Latest reviews
- Destination: Japan, The Philippines
- Duration: 16 Days
- Tour Type: Private & Bespoke
- Tour Style: Classic
About This Trip
This Japan Philippines Tour offers an exceptional two-country journey that blends ancient traditions, futuristic cities, and tropical island escapes into one unforgettable vacation. In Japan, explore the cultural heart of Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo, where historic castles, sacred Shinto shrines, vibrant markets, and world-class cuisine reveal the soul of the Land of the Rising Sun. A scenic excursion to Mount Fuji adds breathtaking natural beauty, completing a perfectly balanced Japanese experience of heritage, modern life, and iconic landscapes.
The journey continues to the Philippines, where history, culture, and island relaxation await. Discover the colonial legacy of Cebu, the natural wonders of Bohol including the Chocolate Hills and marine wildlife encounters, and the dynamic capital Manila with its Spanish-era landmarks and lively districts. Designed as a private and bespoke 16-day vacation, this Japan Philippines Tour is ideal for travelers seeking culture, comfort, and contrast—combining immersive sightseeing with leisure, seamless transfers, and unforgettable island moments.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 8
Japan
Osaka: Osaka Castle, Kuromon Ichiba Market
Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle, Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine
Tokyo: Meiji Shrine, East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, Senso-ji Temple
Mt. Fuji: Oshino Hakkai, Lake Kawaguchiko
9 - 16
The Philippines
Cebu: Magellan's Cross, Basilica del Santo Niño, Lapu-Lapu Monument
Bohol: Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour
Manila: San Agustin Church, Ride Traditional Horse-Drawn Carriage
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Osaka – Gateway to Japan
Arrive in Osaka, the bustling heart of Japan’s Kansai region, famous for its vibrant street life, historic landmarks, and culinary delights. After landing, enjoy a seamless private airport transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure to relax, explore nearby neighborhoods, or enjoy your first taste of authentic Japanese cuisine. This gentle start sets the tone for your unforgettable Japan Philippines Tour, blending culture, modernity, and adventure.
Highlights: Private airport transfer, First impressions of Osaka, Evening strolls in Dotonbori
- Osaka
- Day 2: Osaka City Tour – Castles, Markets & Culinary Delights
Dive into Osaka’s rich history and local culture. Start at the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, featuring life-size recreations of Edo-period streets. Visit Osaka Castle, a masterpiece of Japanese architecture surrounded by moats and stone walls. Conclude with a walking tour of Kuromon Ichiba Market, tasting local delicacies like takoyaki, fresh seafood, and traditional sweets. Capture the lively energy of Osaka’s streets, making it an ideal introduction to Japanese culture.
Highlights: Osaka Castle, Kuromon Ichiba Market, Edo-period museum, Street food tasting
- B
- Osaka
- Day 3: Osaka to Kyoto – Bullet Train Adventure & Gion Exploration
Travel by Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto, Japan’s cultural and spiritual capital. Upon arrival, check into your hotel, then explore the historic Gion District, renowned for its traditional teahouses, geisha culture, and atmospheric streets. Stroll along preserved alleys, spot traditional wooden machiya houses, and experience Kyoto’s timeless charm.
Highlights: Shinkansen experience, Gion District, Traditional Kyoto streets, Evening cultural strolls
- B
- Kyoto
- Day 4: Kyoto Highlights – UNESCO World Heritage & Spiritual Sites
Experience Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks with a guided tour. Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a Zen temple adorned with gold leaf reflecting in serene ponds. Explore Nijo Castle, the former shogun residence featuring “nightingale floors” and elegant gardens. Conclude at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, walking beneath thousands of vermilion torii gates, a symbolic journey of faith and Japanese heritage.
Highlights: Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Zen gardens, Cultural photography spots
- B
- Kyoto
- Day 5: Kyoto at Leisure – Optional Excursions & Hidden Gems
Enjoy a free day to explore Kyoto at your own pace. Recommended excursions include Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Togetsukyo Bridge, and riverside temples. Alternatively, visit Nara, home to Todai-ji Temple with its Great Buddha, friendly deer in Nara Park, and the lantern-lined Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Perfect for travelers seeking deeper cultural immersion and memorable experiences.
Highlights: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Nara Deer Park, Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Optional photography spots
- B
- Kyoto
- Day 6: Kyoto to Tokyo – Arrival in Japan’s Ultra-Modern Capital
After breakfast, take a bullet train to Tokyo, the pulsating modern capital of Japan. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Optional evening activities include strolling Shibuya Crossing, exploring Harajuku, or enjoying Tokyo’s city lights.
Highlights: Bullet train journey, Arrival in Tokyo, Optional evening city exploration
- B
- Tokyo
- Day 7: Tokyo City Tour – Tradition Meets Modernity
Begin with Meiji Shrine, a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush forests. Visit the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, where traditional Japanese landscaping meets historic architecture. Explore Asakusa and the bustling Nakamise Street, culminating at Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Experience Tokyo’s unique blend of ancient culture and modern life.
Highlights: Meiji Shrine, Imperial Palace Gardens, Nakamise Street, Senso-ji Temple, Cultural immersion
- B
- Tokyo
- Day 8: Mount Fuji Excursion – Scenic Mountains & Lakes
Embark on a full-day journey to the iconic Mount Fuji region. Explore Oshino Hakkai, a traditional village with crystal-clear spring ponds. Cruise Lake Kawaguchiko for spectacular views of the mountain and surrounding forests. Ride the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway for breathtaking photography opportunities. Return to Tokyo in the evening.
Highlights: Mount Fuji panoramic views, Oshino Hakkai, Lake Kawaguchiko, Ropeway adventure, Photography opportunities
- B
- Tokyo
- Day 9: Tokyo to Cebu – Begin Philippines Adventure
Fly to Cebu, the historic gateway to the Philippines. Enjoy a private airport transfer to your hotel, then spend the day at leisure exploring the city or relaxing at your resort. Capture your first impressions of tropical island life as you transition from urban Japan to the serene Philippines.
Highlights: Arrival transfer, Leisure day, First impressions of Cebu, Resort relaxation
- B
- Cebu
- Day 10: Cebu City Tour – History, Culture & Local Flavors
Explore Cebu’s rich history with visits to Magellan’s Cross, Basilica del Santo Niño, Fort San Pedro, and Casa Gorordo Museum. Tour Mactan Island, home to the Lapu-Lapu Monument, local handicrafts, and traditional guitar-making workshops. Stroll bustling markets and enjoy authentic Filipino street food.
Highlights: Magellan’s Cross, Basilica del Santo Niño, Lapu-Lapu Monument, Local handicrafts, Culinary experiences
- B, L
- Cebu
- Day 11: Cebu to Bohol – Island Transfer & Beach Leisure
Transfer by ferry to Bohol and check into your beachside resort. Enjoy free time for sunbathing, swimming, or relaxing at the open-air bar. Optional activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, or exploring nearby coastal villages.
Highlights: Ferry ride, Beachside leisure, Optional water sports, Island photography
- B
- Bohol
- Day 12: Bohol Countryside Tour – Chocolate Hills & Wildlife
Visit the Chocolate Hills, a UNESCO-listed geological marvel of over 1,200 limestone formations. Meet the world’s smallest primates at the Tarsier Sanctuary. Enjoy a Loboc River cruise with buffet lunch while surrounded by lush tropical scenery, local music, and cultural performances.
Highlights: Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, Loboc River Cruise, Local cultural performance, Wildlife encounters
- B , L
- Bohol
- Day 13: Dolphin & Whale Watching – Marine Adventure
Set out for a guided dolphin and whale watching tour led by expert local guides. Stop at Pamilacan Island for a picnic lunch and optional snorkeling. Observe marine wildlife in their natural habitat and explore the island’s traditional fishing communities.
Highlights: Dolphin & whale watching, Pamilacan Island, Snorkeling, Marine wildlife observation, Cultural encounters
- B , L
- Bohol
- Day 14: Bohol to Manila – Arrival in the Philippines Capital
Fly to Manila, the vibrant capital city. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring nearby streets or relaxing. Optional evening activities include visiting Rizal Park or sampling local cuisine in Makati.
Highlights: Arrival transfer, Leisure time, First impressions of Manila, Optional city stroll
- B
- Manila
- Day 15: Manila City Tour – Spanish Colonial Heritage
Explore the walled city of Intramuros, visiting San Agustin Church, Fort Santiago, and Manila Cathedral. Ride a traditional kalesa, then visit Quiapo, Binondo (Chinatown), and the American Cemetery. End the day in modern Manila’s Makati or Bonifacio Global City for shopping, dining, and nightlife.
Highlights: Intramuros, Kalesa ride, American Cemetery, Chinatown tour, Makati city experience
- B, L
- Manila
- Day 16: Departure from Manila – Farewell
After breakfast, enjoy your final morning at leisure before your private transfer to Manila airport. Reflect on your unforgettable Japan Philippines Tour, a perfect blend of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and tropical relaxation.
Highlights: Departure transfer, Last moments in Manila, Farewell memories
- B
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