Travelpack

Tokyo • Kyoto • Osaka

Overview
Experience an extraordinary journey through Japan, blending vibrant city life, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty. Begin in Tokyo with flights from Heathrow and a 4-night stay at Hotel Monterey Ginza, including private transfers. Explore Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district, enjoy a day trip to Hakone by rail and cable car, and take in the beauty of the Imperial Palace. Activate your 14-day Japan Rail Pass, allowing seamless travel across Japan. Continue to Kyoto for four nights at Hotel Monterey Kyoto, immersing yourself in a traditional tea ceremony, a Gion geisha walking tour, and a scenic autumn foliage tour through Arashiyama and Sanzen-in Temple. Stay two nights at Koyasan Syukubou Fudouin, a serene temple lodging, then explore Nara, Todaiji Temple, and Uji, known for its matcha delights. Arrive in Osaka for four nights at Hotel Monterey Osaka and discover Amanohashidate, take a cruise in Ine Bay, enjoy a walking tour of Osaka Castle, and learn the Zen art of Japanese calligraphy near the castle. With expert local guides, immersive cultural activities, and scenic experiences, this unforgettable trip offers the perfect balance of discovery, tradition, and relaxation across Japan.

Day 1: Tokyo
Flight from Heathrow Airport to Hong Kong International Airport
Flight from Heathrow Airport to Tokyo Narita Airport
Private transfer from the airport to the hotel
Stay at Hotel Monterey Ginza for 4 nights

Day 2: 14 Japan Rail Pass Standard
14-day standard Japan Rail Pass
The Japan Rail Pass (also known as the JR Pass) is a multi-use ticket that allows you to travel around Japan. It is valid for journeys on all major JR national trains, including Shinkansen bullet trains and Narita Express trains. Free Travel Guide Included. Once you arrive in Japan, go to any of the JR Exchange offices at the airport terminals, train stations, or metro stations to make the exchange with your JR Exchange Order. You need your passport (with a Temporary visitor stamp/sticker in it) and the physical Exchange Order. Only the original document is accepted. You can then choose the first day you wish to start using it by telling the member of staff.
What is included in the Japan Rail Pass?
**1. The JR Pass covers all JR network express, fast, and local trains. Shinkansen high-speed trains are also covered. The NOZOMI and MIZUHO services are partially included in the JR Pass, with an additional special ticket. Furthermore, the JR Pass can be used on the Tokyo Monorail, the Yamanote line (Tokyo Metro), the Aomori Railway between Aomori and Hachinohe*, the Ainokaze Toyama Railway between Toyama and Takaoka*, the Narita Express from Narita Airport to Tokyo and the IR Ishikawa Railway line between Kanazawa and Tsubata*. Aomori Railway line: your JR Pass is only valid for travel on local or rapid service trains encompassing the segments between Hachinohe and Aomori, Aomori and Noheji, and Hachinohe and Noheji. On the Aoimori Railway line, travel is not covered if you get off at any station other than Aomori, Noheji, and Hachinohe. Ainokaze Toyama line: to be able to use your JR Pass, travel must be conducted on local trains and must encompass the full segment between the stations of Toyama and Takaoka. The trip is not covered if you disembark at any station on the Ainokaze Toyama line within or outside the segment (excluding Toyama and Takaoka.)
IR Ishikawa line: the trip must be conducted on local or limited express trains and should encompass the full segment between the stations of Kanazawa and Tsubata. Excluding Kanazawa and Tsubata, travel is not covered if you disembark at any station on the IR Ishikawa Railway line within or outside the segment.
2. The JR Pass is valid on some local JR bus lines such as:
JR Hokkaido Bus
JR Tohoku Bus
JR Kanto Bus
JR Tokai Bus
West Japan JR Bus
JR Chugoku bus
JR Shikoku Bus
JR Kyushu Bus
Important note: Japan Rail Pass is not valid on express bus routes, regardless of whether they are operated by JR Bus.
3. You may use your Japan Rail pass on the JR-West Miyajima ferry services
Important note: The JR-Kyushu ferry between Hakata and Pusan is not included.
Does the JR Pass cover the Nozomi and Mizuho trains?
The JR Pass partially covers both reserved and non-reserved seats on the Shinkansen Nozomi and Mizuho bullet trains, which run along the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen lines. You need an additional complimentary ticket to access these train services. The Nozomi and Mizuho trains make the fewest stops, so they are the quickest option for traveling between major stations on the line. Even without the extra Nozomi/Mizuho tickets, you still have access to the Hikari or Sakura services that cover the same routes. The Hikari and Sakura bullet trains reach the same top speed as the Nozomi and Mizuho trains but have more stops along each route. For example, from Tokyo to Kyoto, the Hikari takes 15 minutes more than the equivalent Nozomi. Can I ride all trains, buses, and ferries? The JR Pass does not allow you to ride on subways or trams within cities. However, most big cities have a few JR lines that you can use to go around, like the Osaka Loop or Kanjo line and the Tokyo Yamanote line, for example. It also covers the Tokyo Monorail, some local JR bus lines, and the JR-West Miyajima ferry service. JR Pass also covers night trains. However, it is not valid for the sleeper wagon, private wagons in night trains, and special
compartments, for which you will have to pay an extra fee.

The Old Quarter of Tokyo Asakusa Sensoji Temple
The Asakusa Walking Tour in Tokyo offers a captivating exploration of the historic district, blending traditional and modern elements. The focal point, Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple, stands with its Thunder Gate and Nakamise Shopping Street. Participants delve into the temple's history, exploring intricate architecture and partaking in rituals. Guides share compelling stories, enriching the understanding of Senso-ji's cultural significance. Meandering through Asakusa reveals charming shops, crafts, and local eateries, creating a vibrant tapestry. This immersive tour promises a sensory journey through Tokyo's cultural heritage, balancing ancient allure with dynamic energy.
Duration: 2 hours
Inclusions :
- Local guide's fee

Day 3 : Private Tour - Hakone Day Trip
Hakone, which can be reached in just 73 minutes from Shinjuku, is famous as a tourist destination where you can refresh yourself in nature. On this tour, you will travel around Hakone by train, cable car, ropeway, boat, and bus. Let's cover all the must-see spots in Hakone in one day, such as Owakudani, Lake Ashi, and Hakone Shrine.
Spots]
Ship ropeway
Duration: 7 hours, 30 mins
Inclusions :
- Private Tour
- Tour Guide
- The necessary expenses for the guide during the tour

Day 4 : Imperial Palace Shogun Historical Walking Tour
Discover the Imperial Palace Walking Tour, where you'll explore the historic heart of Tokyo and uncover its rich heritage. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Imperial Palace East Gardens, stroll through scenic pathways, and gain insider insights into Japan's imperial history. Perfect for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers seeking an authentic Tokyo experience, this tour offers a peaceful retreat in the bustling metropolis!
Duration: 2 hours
Inclusions :
- Learn about Japan's History and how it became the country it is today
- Enjoy a relaxing walk through beautiful gardens and the Palace remains
- See a special breed of Koi fish that you can only find here
- We know the best photo spots, so you will also get a chance to take good photos!

Day 5 : Authentic Kyoto Tea Ceremony - Private
Stay at Hotel Monterey Kyoto for 4 nights
We want your time with us to be a rich and enjoyable one, and to that end, we encourage guests to not only participate but also actively ask any questions they might have about Japan and the tea ceremony. Here to help make your time a memorable and authentic one. The tea ceremony is the perfect way to enjoy Japanese culture
and experience a taste of Kyoto. important to us, and all are welcome. available for those who have difficulty sitting on the floor. dress. Wear a kimono and please dress as you feel comfortable. In shared or private tea ceremonies. photos throughout the experience (please be mindful of other guests and please turn off the flash).
Inclusions :
- Tea bowls, tea scoops, and tea whisks are provided so that guests can make their bowl of Matcha.

Day 6 : Gion Geisha District Walking Tour
Discover Kyoto's captivating Geisha culture with the Kyoto Night Walking Tour. Led by local guides steeped in tradition, this journey unveils the world of Geisha and Maiko. Grace comes to life. Learn Geisha's secrets, their training, and artistry. Encounter Geisha and Maiko en route to appointments, offering a rare glimpse into their world. an intimate setting, ask questions and engage with this enthralling tradition. The Kyoto Night Walking Tour immerses you authentically, connecting you to Kyoto's Geisha culture. The captivating world of Geisha, revealing the history and thriving traditions that come alive in Kyoto after dark.
Duration: 2 hours
Inclusions :
- All Fees and Taxes

Day 7 : Arashiyama Autumn Leaves & Sanzen-in Temple
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto in autumn with our Arashiyama & Sagano Train and Sanzen-in Temple Day Tour! Ride the iconic Sagano Romantic Train, where vibrant red, orange, and golden leaves surround you, creating an unforgettable seasonal panorama. Stroll through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, framed by the rich hues of fall. Visit the serene Sanzen-in Temple, where moss gardens and vibrant maples create a peaceful, picture-perfect atmosphere. This tour is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm
Duration: 8 hours to 9 hours
Inclusions :
- Chinese / English / Japanese-speaking guide

Day 9 : Koyasan Syukubou Fudouin
Stay at Koyasan Syukubou Fudouin for 2 Nights

Day 10: Full Day in Osaka, Nara, Todaiji temple and Uji
Matcha Embark on an enchanting day tour through Nara and Uji, perfect for culture enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Begin your adventure at Nara Park, where you can feed and interact with the friendly deer amidst stunning autumn foliage. Explore the historical Todai-ji Temple with its towering Great Buddha statue and the serene Kasuga Taisha Shrine, adorned with hundreds of lanterns. Enjoy a traditional lunch surrounded by nature before heading to Uji, a haven for matcha lovers. Stroll down Byodo-in Omotesando Street, indulging in matcha treats, and visit the picturesque Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Conclude your day with a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs of Genji-no-Yu, where you can unwind and rejuvenate in a tranquil Japanese setting. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and relaxation, making it ideal for those seeking an unforgettable Japanese experience.
- Multilingual guide and driver
- Transportation by an air-conditioned vehicle
- pick-up at designated point: Osaka

Day 11 : Explore Amanohashidate & Ine Bay
Stay at Hotel Monterey Osaka for 4 nights
Discover the stunning "Heaven's Bridge" at Amanohashidate on a day tour from Osaka. Enjoy a cable car ride, relax on the Ine Bay Cruise, and choose between a pork shabu-shabu lunch or a meal voucher. Get a panoramic view of the area! floating fisherman's village, Ine! Amanohashidate, Heaven's Bridge, at your own pace! Shabu shabu lunch or a lunch in Kasamatsu Park! Inclusions :
- Full Experience Option: Meal coupon worth 1500 yen
- Pick-up and drop-off at the Namba OCAT building
- Boarding tickets for the Ine Bay Boat
- English and Chinese speaking guide
- Premium Option: Shabu Shabu Lunch (Pork hotpot)
- Boarding tickets for the Kasamatsu Cable Car
- Air-conditioned bus with free Wi-Fi

Day 12 : Osaka Castle Walking Tour
This tour is perfect for those who want a thorough yet brief overview of Osaka Castle's rich history. While many visitors only admire its beauty, we will dive deeper into its significance and guide you to the best photo spots. We'll also share recommendations for other top attractions in Osaka to help you make the most of your visit.
Inclusions :
- 1-hour tour of Osaka Castle
- English Speaking Tour Guide

Learn Zen of Japanese Calligraphy nr Castle
What makes this class special? The teacher will teach you step by step, so don't worry if you've never tried it before! (Don't panic!...a part of the shodo ritual is practicing one's patience, too.)
be accompanied by an English-Japanese or Chinese-Japanese translator, so you can fully understand the class and ask questions if there are any. Japanese tea room with a beautiful tatami floor. The class will be for a maximum of. 3 people, which makes your experience more personal. With your family or friends, and make it into a private class for no extra charge. And after the class, by your phone or camera. XX of your work from the class. Bamboo holder to take your work home for FREE! Inclusions :
- Taste matcha, a traditional Japanese beverage. Quench your thirst with iced green matcha tea during the summer months.
- Patience
- Shodo Tools
- All Fees and Taxes
- English Interpreter Assistant
- Lessons from introductory to professional

Day 13: Departure

What is included in the offer?
• International flights with 23kg checked baggage
• Private airport transfer upon arrival in Tokyo
• 14-Day Standard Japan Rail Pass (Activate on Day 2 until Day 16 – includes airport transfer on departure)
• 4 nights at the Hotel Monterey Ginza in a Standard Room with breakfast
• Guided tour of Tokyo's Old Quarter – Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple
• Private day trip to Hakone
• Imperial Palace Shogun Historical Walking Tour
• 4 nights at the Hotel Monterey Kyoto in a Standard Room with breakfast
• Private Kyoto Tea Ceremony experience
• Gion Geisha District Walking Tour
• Arashiyama Autumn Leaves & Sanzen-in Temple Day Tour
• 4 nights at the Hotel Monterey Osaka in a Classic Room with breakfast
• Full-day tour to Osaka, Nara (Todaiji Temple), and Uji (Matcha experience)
• Day trip to explore Amanohashidate & Ine Bay

Based on 2 adults sharing

Deposit: £600pp
• A37746 Heathrow from £3849pp
• A37813 Manchester from £3859pp
• A37816 Edinburgh from £4089pp
• A37820 Newcastle from £4199pp
• A37823 Dublin from £4249pp

Meal Plans