- Overview
- Itinerary
- Gallery
- Included
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Embark on a captivating 13-day tour of Japan. Immerse yourself in the Land of the Rising Sun’s harmonious blend of culture and adventure.
The itinerary may be modified to enhance the overall tour experience.
Activities and Sites Include
- Nikko: Toshogu Shrine, Traditional Japanese Lunch, Edo Wonderland
- Tokyo: Tokyo Station, Imperial Palace, Senso-Ji, Tokyo Skytree, Meiji Jingu, Omotesando and Harajuku Shopping Districts
- Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Rickshaw Ride, Arashiyama Monkey Habitat, Kinkaku-Ji, Nijo Castle, Fushimi Inari-taisha, Kiyomizudera, Kobe Beef “Yakiniku” Barbecue Dinner
- Nara: Todai-Ji, Todai-Ji Daibutsuden, Nara Park, Kasuga Taisha
- Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, The “Genbaku” Atomic Dome, Miyajima Island, Itsukushima Shrine Torii Gate
- Osaka: Osaka Castle Complex, Dotonbori Shopping District
- Himeji: Himeji Castle, Shabu-Shabu Dinner
And much, much more!
Pricing
- Tour Price: $4,495.00 per person, Double Occupancy (Airfare not included)
- Airfare: approx. $800 – $1,200 (not included)
Deposit: $1,500.00 per person, non-refundable
Make Payments To:
Wilkey Travel c/o Dave Wilkey, 5176 West 3160 South, Hurricane, Utah 84737
Or Venmo: @DavidW-Wilkey
Tour Contacts
Dave Wilkey
Phone: (435) 703-5557
Email: davewilkey@yahoo.com
William Wilkey
Phone: (435) 272-3710
Email: williamwilkey@gmail.com
- Day 1: International Departure
- Day 2: Arrival in Japan
- Day 3: Free-Time / Tokyo Disneyland
- Day 4: Nikko
- Day 5: Ancient Tokyo
- Day 6: Modern Tokyo
- Day 7: Himeji Castle
- Day 8: Miyajima Island / Hiroshima
- Day 9: Kyoto
- Day 10: Kyoto Day 2
- Day 11: Nara
- Day 12: Osaka
- Day 13: Return to Tokyo
Itineraries
Day 1
Date : May 15, 2027
International Departure
Depart from your selected International Airport to Tokyo Haneda or Tokyo Narita Airport.
Relax and enjoy in-flight entertainment and views of the Pacific Ocean while crossing the international dateline.
Airline booking assistance available upon request.
Day 2
Date : May 16, 2027
Arrival in Japan
Upon arriving in Tokyo, meet your guide at the airport and transfer to our hotel. After checking in, you’ll have free-time to rest, savor local cuisine, or explore the city.
Tokyo, the world’s most populous metropolitan area, boasts over 37 million people in its greater region. Here, ultramodern skyscrapers, neon-lit streets, and cutting-edge technology harmoniously blend with serene ancient temples, traditional gardens, and historic shrines. Renowned for its efficient public transportation, exceptional cuisine ranging from street-side ramen to Michelin-starred sushi, and cutting edge electronics, Tokyo embodies a captivating fusion of tradition and innovation. This unique blend attracts millions of visitors each year.
Accommodations: Tokyo Area Hotel (4 Star or above)
Day 3
Date : May 17, 2027
Free-Time / Tokyo Disneyland
After breakfast at the hotel, free-time in Tokyo to relax, or independently explore Japan’s capital city’s history and distinctly unique culture.
Optional: Visit Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea.
- Tokyo Disneyland, the first Disney park outside the US, opened in 1983. It offers unique rides like Pooh’s Hunny Hunt, Stitch Encounter, and an annual Halloween parade with over 100,000 carved pumpkins.
- Tokyo DisneySea, opened in September 2001, is the only Disney park with a nautical theme, celebrating Disney’s newer films and film characters. Unique attractions include Journey to the Center of the Earth, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Soaring: Fantastic Flight, and Aquatopia.
Tokyo Free-Time Activities:
- Take a relaxing two-to-three-hour night cruise on Tokyo Bay, where you can enjoy dinner while taking in the sights of landmarks like Rainbow Bridge.
- Visit the Shibuya Sky Observatory on the 47th floor of Shibuya Scramble Square for a panoramic view of Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, and Mount Fuji on clear nights.
- Karaoke in private rooms is a staple of Tokyo nightlife, especially for groups. You can rent a booth at a karaoke bar for an all-night singing session with snacks and drinks.
- Digital art shows: Immerse yourself in TeamLab Planets or similar exhibits, which often extend into evenings for a surreal, interactive experience.
Accommodations: Tokyo Area Hotel (4 Star or above)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 4
Date : May 18, 2027
Nikko
Visit the beautiful city of Nikko and Toshogu Shrine.
Nikko, a city in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, is famous for its natural beauty, historic temples, and shrines. It’s a gateway to Nikko National Park and blends cultural heritage with outdoor activities. Established as a Shinto and Buddhist center in 766 AD, Nikko gained prominence during the Edo period. Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun, was enshrined there in 1617, solidifying its status. Under his grandson Iemitsu, Toshogu Shrine, a magnificent complex, was constructed. In 1999, the Shrines and Temples of Nikko were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ensuring their enduring cultural significance.
Traditional Japanese Lunch OYO at Edo Wonderland!
Edo Wonderland, a captivating cultural theme park, transports guests to Japan’s Edo Period (1603–1868), a time of peace and prosperity under the Tokugawa shogunate. The park features an impressive collection of historical structures, from humble inns to grand samurai homes and official government edifices. Staff interact with guests in manner and attire authentic to the various social classes of the Edo period. Activities include dynamic ninja performances, street acts, parades, and various seasonal events. Guests can also participate in activities like ninja training, archery, and renting traditional outfits.
Dinner OYO in Tokyo.
Accommodations: Tokyo Area Hotel (4 Star or above)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 5
Date : May 19, 2027
Ancient Tokyo
After Breakfast, explore the oldest area of Tokyo, including:
- Tokyo Station, a central cultural landmark, stands as one of Japan’s busiest transportation hubs. Its resilient red-brick facade survived World War II bombings. Constructed in 1914, inspired by Amsterdam’s Central Station, it serves as a major terminus for the Shinkansen, JR lines, and the Tokyo Metro. The underground features a unique shopping scene and diverse culinary options.
- The Imperial Palace, a blend of traditional Japanese design and modern functionality, houses the ruins of Edo Castle’s keep. Though not open to the public, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the landscapes and traditional architecture.
- Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple (7th century), attracts millions annually. Its iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) leads to Nakamise-dori, a vibrant shopping street with traditional Japanese goods. The temple’s treasure-house houses over 1,300-year-old artifacts, and its massive Kaminarimon Gate features a 700 kg lantern.
Lunch on your own (OYO) at Asakusa.
Afterward, experience the Tokyo Skytree and its Tembo Deck!
Tokyo Skytree, Japan’s tallest structure standing at an impressive 634 meters (2,080 feet), was constructed between 2008 and 2012 as a digital broadcasting tower. Its construction was necessitated by the interference caused by skyscrapers, and it has since become the world’s tallest tower, holding the Guinness record for this distinction. If heights aren’t your thing, Tokyo Skytree Town offers over 300 made in Japan shops, eateries, an aquarium, and a planetarium.
The Tembo Deck (350 meters of glass floors and a café with breathtaking views) and the Tembo Galleria (450 meters with panoramic 360-degree views) offer stunning vistas. In clear spring weather, Mt. Fuji may be visible.
After descending the Skytree, Dinner OYO and free-time to enjoy and explore Tokyo.
Accommodations: Tokyo Area Hotel (4 Star or above)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 6
Date : May 20, 2027
Modern Tokyo
Visit the Meiji Jingu Shinto Shrine.
Meiji Jingu, dedicated in 1920 to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, holds immense significance as a place of religious ceremonies and public events. It is particularly renowned for hosting the New Year’s celebrations, weddings, and traditional Shinto rituals. The shrine’s iconic gravel entryway path is lined with wooden torii gates, cypress trees donated from across Japan, and various offerings, including sake barrels, from different parts of the country. Meiji Jingu embodies the emperor’s passion for nature and his role in modernizing Japan.
Explore the adjacent Omotesando and Harajuku shopping districts and lunch OYO!
Omotesando and Harajuku, neighboring districts in Tokyo, are famous for their fashion, culture, and trendy youth culture. They offer a stark yet complementary contrast, showcasing Tokyo’s blend of traditional and avant-garde culture. Omotesando boasts luxury boutiques and architectural landmarks, while Harajuku, especially Takeshita Street, is known for vibrant street fashion, kawaii culture, unique cosplay outfits, and themed cafes.
Free-time and Dinner on your own in Tokyo.
Optional: Visit the LDS Tokyo Temple.
In 1901, the first LDS missionaries arrived in Japan, and in 1975, the announcement of the temple was made. Completed in 1980, the Tokyo Temple stands as the first temple in a non-Christian nation and serves as a central hub for all Asian Saints.
Accommodations: Tokyo Area Hotel (4 Star or above)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 7
Date : May 21, 2027
Himeji Castle
Breakfast at the hotel before departing for Himeji via Japan’s Shinkansen (The Bullet Train).
The Shinkansen, also known as Japan’s “Bullet Train,” is a renowned high-speed railway system celebrated for its remarkable speed, safety, and efficiency, facilitating millions of passengers annually. The Shinkansen’s cutting-edge engineering allows speeds up to 320 km/h (200 mph) on dedicated tracks across the country’s major islands.
Arrive in Himeji, and enjoy lunch around Himeji Station before visiting the legendary Himeji Castle.
The “White Heron Castle,” Himeji is the ultimate example of a castle in Japan’s feudal era. Originally constructed in 1333, the Castle was rebuilt in the 17th century by order of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu’s son in law. The main keep features a labyrinth of defensive walls, gates, and moats designed to confuse invaders. A unique UNESCO site, the castle is a testament to the Tokugawa Shogunate’s legacy.
After checking into our hotel, experience Japanese fondue – Shabu-Shabu.
Accommodations: Himeji Area Hotel (4 Star or above)
Meals Included: Breakfast / Dinner
Day 8
Date : May 22, 2027
Miyajima Island / Hiroshima
After Breakfast at the hotel, check-out and travel to Hiroshima and Miyajima Island via Shinkansen.
Miyajima Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, harmoniously blends Shinto and Buddhist traditions. Religious elements are vividly reflected in the verdant landscapes, distinctive architecture, and ancient temples and shrines, dating as far back as the 6th century. Celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, the island is particularly renowned for the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, featuring the mesmerizing “floating” torii gate that appears to levitate above the sea during high tide.
After lunch OYO on Miyajima Island, visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park serves as a poignant tribute and reminder of August 6, 1945. Immersive exhibits featuring artifacts, evocative photographs, and firsthand survivor testimonies help visitors grasp the harrowing realities of the day. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum delivers a deeply affecting blend of education and emotion, challenging perspectives on war and humanity. At the heart of the site looms the Atomic Bomb Dome, a haunting UNESCO World Heritage Site and grim testament to the utter devastation of nuclear conflict. Adjacent to the monument, a park was built for visitors to contemplate the site’s magnitude, and encourage global peace through introspection.
Accommodations: Kyoto Area Hotel (4 Star or above)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 9
Date : May 23, 2027
Kyoto
After Lunch OYO, visit Kinkaku-ji, one of the most photographed, and recognizable, sites in Japan.
Officially known as Rokuon-ji, Kinkaku-ji is a Zen Buddhist temple renowned for its breathtaking golden exterior. Constructed in 1397 as a retirement villa for Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it later transformed into one of Japan’s most iconic temples. The golden facade embodies the concept of paradise on earth and has become one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, attracting numerous photographers.
Enjoy a private Rickshaw ride through the Arashiyama bamboo forest.
The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, also known as the Sagano Bamboo Forest, is a famous natural attraction in Kyoto, Japan. It features towering mōsō bamboo stalks, creating an immersive otherworldly pathway that spans 200 meters.
Optional: Hike to the Iwatayama Hilltop Monkey Park.
The Iwatayama Monkey Park offers a unique natural habitat for over 120 free-roaming wild Japanese macaques. A 20-minute uphill hike through woodland trails leads to the park, and panoramic city views.
Visit Nijo Castle (Time Permitting).
Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, features two concentric rings of fortifications: the Ninomaru Palace with its beautifully painted sliding doors and the reconstructed Honmaru Palace.
Free-time to explore Kyoto and enjoy Dinner OYO.
Accommodations: Kyoto Area Hotel (4 Star or above)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 10
Date : May 24, 2027
Kyoto Day 2
Visit the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine.
The Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, sake, agriculture, and prosperity, was built in 711 AD. Thousands of vermilion torii gates form a tunnel-like path up Mount Inari, adorned with fox statues (considered messengers of Inari). The shrine embodies good fortune and success, attracting millions of visitors annually.
After, free-time to explore Kiyomizudera, and the surrounding shopping district. Lunch OYO.
Kiyomizudera, the “Pure Water Temple,” is a historic Buddhist temple renowned for its stunning architecture, panoramic views, and scenic beauty. Jishu Shrine, perched on the hillside of Mt. Otowa, was built in 780 AD. Renowned for its Otowa Waterfall, visitors may drink from its three streams, each believed to bestow unique blessings such as longevity, academic success, or love. In 1994, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing millions of visitors annually.
Enjoy a traditional Kobe beef Yakiniku BBQ dinner in Kyoto.
Yakiniku, or “grilled meat,” is a Japanese dining style inspired by Korean barbecue. Seasoned bite-sized cuts of premium beef (often wagyu), pork, and vegetables (mushrooms, peppers, and onions) are cooked on a table-top grill, then dipped into various dipping sauces.
Accommodations: Kyoto Area Hotel (4 Star or above)
Meals Included: Breakfast / Dinner
Day 11
Date : May 25, 2027
Nara
Travel to the ancient capital of Nara!
Nara is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Historic Monuments and free-roaming sika deer (considered sacred messengers). Originally known as Heijō-kyō, Nara was inspired by China’s Chang’an, and served as the seat of the Emperor and the inaugural capital of Japan during the Nara period (710–794 AD). The strong influence of Buddhism was felt as Nara flourished, leading to the construction of Japan’s central religious sites.
Visit the Todai-ji Complex.
Todai-ji Temple became Japan’s primary Buddhist temple in the 8th century. The temple’s Daibutsuden stands as the world’s largest wooden building and home to a colossal bronze Buddha standing 49 feet 2 inches (15 meters) tall.
Lunch with Nara’s “bowing” deer at 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 “bowing” deer, considered messengers of the gods and a symbol of the city.
After lunch, enjoy the lantern adorned walking trail leading to Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
Built in 768 AD, Kasuga Taisha Shrine is one of Japan’s most significant Shinto shrines. Kasuga Taisha embodies Shinto reverence for nature and harmony, and is renowned for its 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns (lit twice yearly).
Afterward, dinner OYO and free-time to explore Kyoto.
Accommodations: Kyoto Area Hotel (4 Star or above)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 12
Date : May 26, 2027
Osaka
Breakfast at the hotel, then depart for Osaka Castle.
Osaka Castle 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.
Lunch at the home of the Japanese Pancake, “Okonomiyaki” on Dotonbori Street and free-time to explore the popular shopping district.
Dotonbori Street, located in the heart of Osaka, is a vibrant, bustling thoroughfare renowned for its lively atmosphere, dazzling neon lights, and culinary delights. Stretching along the Dotonbori Canal in the Namba district, this iconic street is a sensory overload of colorful billboards, quirky shop signs, and the aroma of street food like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu wafting from countless stalls and restaurants. Famous landmarks like the Glico Man sign and the giant moving crab of Kani Doraku draw crowds of tourists and locals alike, while theaters, bars, and shops keep the energy high day and night. Often compared to Tokyo’s Shibuya, Dotonbori embodies Osaka’s spirited, food-loving culture, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the essence of this dynamic city.
After, free-time in Kyoto with dinner OYO.
Accommodations: Kyoto Area Hotel (4 Star or above)
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch
Day 13
Date : May 27, 2027
Return to Tokyo
Breakfast at the hotel before returning to Tokyo via Shinkansen.
After arrival to Tokyo, transfer to Departure Airport. After luggage check-in, lunch OYO and free-time for last minute shopping.
Meals Included: Breakfast
There are no medias on the gallery.
- 4+ Star Accommodations
- English Speaking Tour Guides/Host
- Activities Listed on Itinerary
- Bullet-Train and Chartered Bus
- Airport Transfers
- All transfers
- Accommodations with Breakfast
- All Entrance (Fees excluding those identified)
- Meals as indicated: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Tokyo Disney/Disney Sea Entry Fee
- TeamLab Planets Entry Fee
- Flights ($800–$1,200 est.)
- Travel Insurance
- Tips: $8 to $10 per day
- Visa Fees
- Non-indicated Meals