View Gallery

2025 Japan (Spring)

From $3,995.00

Enjoy this epic day excursion to see the best Japan has to offer.

Trip Type

Tour
Activities

No Activities
Group Size

No size limit - No size limit
Reviews

0 Reviews
Locations

Japan
Fixed Departure

May 3, 2025

Trip code WT-CODE 8487

Overview
Itinerary
Gallery
Included
Excluded

Tour Costs (not including airfare):

$3995.00/person (double occupancy)
$1500.00/person deposit due at booking (non-refundable)

Final Balance due Feb 15, 2025

Make Payments to:

Wilkey Travel c/o Dave Wilkey
davewilkey@yahoo.com

For your deposit convenience you can use venmo: @DavidW-Wilkey

For Additional Information:

Dave Wilkey
435.703.5557
davewilkey@yahoo.com

William Wilkey
435.272.3710
williamwilkey@gmail.com

No details found.

Itineraries

Day 1 - 05/03

Date : May 3, 2025

International Flight

Depart from Los Angeles (LAX) on a non-stop flight to Tokyo, Japan (HND).

Cross the International Date Line!

Day 2 - 05/04

Date : May 4, 2025

Arrive in Japan

Arrive in Japan (Haneda) and transfer by train to Tokyo, Japan.

Accommodations: Shinagawa Prince - https://www.princehotels.com/shinagawa/

Shinkansen Rail Pass (Bullet Train) Provided

Day 3 - 05/05

Date : May 5, 2025

Free-Time/Tokyo Disneyland

All Day: Free time in Tokyo!!

Optional: Visit Tokyo Disneyland!!

Any true Disney enthusiast will agree, Tokyo Disneyland’s two parks feature attractions and experiences exclusive to Japan. However, you don't need to be a Disney devotee to enjoy an exceptional day filled with fun.

Accommodations: Shinagawa Prince - https://www.princehotels.com/shinagawa/

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - 05/06

Date : May 6, 2025

Ancient Tokyo

Morning: Visit Tokyo Station, the Imperial Palace, and Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa.

Tokyo Station is a central landmark, cultural center, and one of Japan’s busiest transportation hubs. Built in 1914, the location is a major terminus for the Shinkansen (bullet trains), numerous JR lines, and the Tokyo Metro. Beyond transportation, the station blends history, modernity, and commerce, featuring underground shops and unique culinary options.

Located on the site of Edo Castle, the Imperial Palace is the primary residence of the Emperor. The palace reflects centuries of history, blending traditional Japanese design, with modern-day function. While the palace itself isn't open to the public, views into the meticulously maintained landscapes and traditional architecture are available.

Senso-ji (also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple) is Tokyo's oldest temple, dating back to the 7th century. Millions of visitors pass through the iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) entryway annually, entering the vibrant Nakamise-dori shopping street
featuring various traditional Japanese goods.

Afternoon: Experience the Tokyo Skytree!

Dominating Tokyo's skyline, the Tokyo Skytree stands a staggering 2,000+ ft., offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the city, and a glimpse of Mt. Fuji on a clear day. If heights aren't your thing, don't sweat. There's much to see at Tokyo Skytree Town, including 300+ shops and eateries, many featuring Japanese specialty merchandise.

Evening: Free-time to explore Tokyo, the 2nd Largest City in the World!

Accommodations: Shinagawa Prince - https://www.princehotels.com/shinagawa/

Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch

Day 5 - 05/07

Date : May 7, 2025

Modern Tokyo

Morning: Visit the serine Meiji Jingu Shrine.

Meiji Jingu is a significant place for both religious ceremonies and public events, notably the New Year's celebrations, weddings, and traditional Shinto rituals. Dedicated in 1920 to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the shrine reflects the emperor's passion for nature and his role in modernizing Japan. The shrine’s iconic gravel entryway path features wooden torii gates, cypress trees donated from all over Japan, and various offerings (like sake barrels) from across the country.

Afternoon and Evening: Explore the adjacent Omotesando and Harujuku shopping districts! Omotesando and Harajuku are neighboring districts in Tokyo, collectively known for fashion, culture, and trendy youth culture. The two locations provide a stark, yet complementary, contrast showcasing Tokyo's ability to blend traditional elements with avant-garde and pop culture. Omotesando is famed for its luxury boutiques, and architectural landmarks. A few steps away, Harajuku (particularly Takeshita Street) bursts into view with vibrant street fashion, kawaii culture, unique cosplay outfits, and themed cafes.

Accommodations: Shinagawa Prince - https://www.princehotels.com/shinagawa/

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - 05/08

Date : May 8, 2025

Nikko

Morning: Visit the beautiful city of Nikko and Toshogu Shrine.

Nikko is a small city in the mountains north of Tokyo founded in the 8th century, and renowned for stunning natural beauty, and rich historical sites dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu (the first shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate). Before entering the UNESCO World Heritage site, visitors pass through the gilded Yomeimon Gate, signifying entering Nikko’s crown jewel, the Toshogu Shrine.

Afternoon: Experience Edo Wonderland!

Edo Wonderland is a cultural theme park build to replicate the Edo Period (1603-1868), a pivotal era in Japanese history of peace and stability under the Tokugawa shogunate. The park features a variety of period architecture, from rural lodgings to urban Samurai Residences and Government Buildings. Dressed in period attire, staff reenact the speech and traditions of citizens from the lower, middle, and upper social classes. Themed shows include: live action Ninja demonstrations, various street performances, parades, and seasonal festivals. Additional experiences include Ninja workshops, traditional Japanese Archery, and period dress-up for guests.

Evening: Free-time and dinner on your own in Tokyo.

Accommodations: Shinagawa Prince - https://www.princehotels.com/shinagawa/

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - 05/09

Date : May 9, 2025

Kyoto

Morning: Depart for Kyoto via Japan’s “Nozomi” Shinkansen (“The Wish” Bullet Train), reaching speeds of 186 mph!

Afternoon: Visit historic Kyoto! Explore Kyoto’s most scenic locations, starting with a traditional Rickshaw ride in Arashiyama, a district famous for vast bamboo groves and the majestic Hozugawa River. After, travel to the stunning golden Kinkakuji pavilion, one of the most photographed sites in Japan. Lastly, visit Nijo Castle, an ornamented castle originally built as the private villa of a powerful feudal lord.

Serving as Japan's capital and Emperor's Residence from 794 until 1868, Kyoto was removed from the list of atomic bomb target cities during World War II due to the exceptional historic value. As a result, numerous temples, shrines, and other historically priceless structures survive across the city today.

Officially named Rokuon-ji, Kinkaku-ji is a Zen Buddhist temple known for its stunning golden exterior. Built in 1397 as a retirement villa for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it was later converted into a temple after his death. The top two floors of the three-story structure are covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond. It symbolizes paradise on earth and is one of Japan's most photographed landmarks. Kinkaku-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.

Nijo Castle, located in Kyoto, Japan, is a historic fortress and former residence of the Tokugawa shoguns, built in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyasu. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's renowned for its opulent interiors, especially the "nightingale floors" designed to chirp when walked upon, alerting residents to intruders. The castle comprises two concentric rings of fortifications, the Ninomaru Palace with its beautifully painted sliding doors, and the Honmaru Palace, though the latter was reconstructed after destruction by fire. The expansive gardens, with their cherry blossoms in spring, add to its scenic beauty. Nijo Castle symbolizes the power and aesthetic of the Edo period, offering insights into samurai culture, architecture, and the transition from shogunal to imperial rule in Japan.

Evening: Free time in Kyoto.

Accommodations: Hotel Nikko Princess Kyoto - https://www.princess-kyoto.co.jp/

Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch

Day 8 - 05/10

Date : May 10, 2025

Kyoto

Morning: Visit the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine. Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, sake, agriculture, and prosperity. Built in 711 AD, the shrine is known for thousands of vermilion torii gates forming a tunnel-like path up Mount Inari. The gates, donated by individuals and businesses, create a mesmerizing landscape featuring numerous fox statues (considered messengers of Inari). The shrine is not just a cultural icon, but a symbol of good fortune and success, attracting millions of visitors annually.

Afternoon: Explore Kiyomizudera. The "Pure Water Temple," is a historic Buddhist temple renowned for its stunning architecture, panoramic views, and scenic beauty.

Built on the hillside of Mt. Otowa in 780 AD, the temple is famous for the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors drink from its three
streams, each believed to grant different benefits like longevity, success in studies, or love. Jishu Shrine for matchmaking and is particularly picturesque during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 as part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto, attracting millions of visitors annually.

Evening: Enjoy a traditional multi-course dinner in Kyoto.

Accommodations: Hotel Nikko Princess Kyoto - https://www.princess-kyoto.co.jp/

Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Day 9 - 05/11

Date : May 11, 2025

Nara

Morning: Visit Nara, the capital of Japan and seat of the Emperor during the Nara period (710-794AD). Begin the day at the Todai-ji Temple, a key landmark built as Japan’s head Buddhist temple in the 8th century. The temple’s notable Daibutsuden is the largest wooden building in the world, featuring a 15 meter tall bronze Buddha.

Afternoon: Walk to Nara Park, central Nara’s largest park. Established in 1880, the park is home to multiple attractions, including: Todaiji, Kasuga Taisha, Kofukuji, and the Nara National Museum. While visiting, feed some of the hundreds of freely roaming deer, considered messengers of the gods and a symbol of the city.

Evening: Visit Kasuga Taisha, the most celebrated Shinto shrine in Nara, famous for its bronze and stone lanterns. After, stroll to the hotel via Nara’s backstreets while exploring local shops.

Accommodations: Hotel Nikko Princess Kyoto - https://www.princess-kyoto.co.jp/

Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch

Day 10 - 05/12

Date : May 12, 2025

Hiroshima

Morning: The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, Japan, serves as a poignant reminder of the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945. Central to the park is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which educates visitors on the events leading up to and following the bombing through artifacts, photographs, and survivor testimonies. The iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to the destruction caused by nuclear weapons. Other significant sites within the park include the Peace Memorial Cenotaph, Children's Peace Monument dedicated to Sadako Sasaki, and the Flame of Peace, symbolizing the global pursuit of nuclear disarmament. This park not only commemorates the victims but also promotes peace and reflection, offering a profound educational and emotional experience to all who visit.

Afternoon: Visit Miyajima Island.

Miyajima Island, also known as Itsukushima, is a small, picturesque island located in Hiroshima Bay, Japan, renowned for its spiritual significance and natural beauty. The island is most famous for the Itsukushima Shrine with its iconic "floating" torii gate, which appears to hover over the water at high tide, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's three best views. Visitors can explore the serene environment, home to friendly deer considered sacred messengers, hike to the top of Mount Misen for stunning panoramas, or enjoy local specialties like oysters and momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes). The island blends Shinto and Buddhist influences, offering a mix of historic temples, traditional architecture, and lush, vibrant landscapes, making it a tranquil escape from urban life.

Evening: Return to Kyoto

Accommodations: Hotel Nikko Princess Kyoto - https://www.princess-kyoto.co.jp/

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - 05/13

Date : May 13, 2025

Osaka

Morning: Depart for Osaka Castle.

Osaka Castle, located in Osaka, Japan, is a symbol of the city's history and power. Originally built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan's most powerful feudal lords, the current structure is a concrete reconstruction from 1931, designed to mimic the original's appearance after it was destroyed several times due to warfare and fires. The castle is surrounded by expansive grounds with moats, walls, and turrets, offering a glimpse into feudal Japan's military architecture. Inside, the castle houses a museum
with exhibits on Hideyoshi's life, the history of the castle, and artifacts from the period. The top floor provides panoramic views of Osaka. The castle park, with its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Afternoon: Free time and shopping.

Evening: Dinner at a local Osaka site.

Accommodations: Hotel Nikko Princess Kyoto - https://www.princess-kyoto.co.jp/

Meals Included: Breakfast