Japan Discovery: Culture & Beaches

After clearing customs and collecting your luggage, an airport guide will greet you with your trip documents and take you to your hotel. Once checked in, spend the rest of the day at leisure, resting after your flight. If you’re inclined to explore, take a stroll through the Imperial Gardens.

Dive into the city’s highlights today. Consider taking a cruise from Hamarikyu Gardens along the Sumida River to the historic Asakusa district, where you can visit the impressive Sensoji Temple. In the evening, enjoy a guided culinary experience in the vibrant district of Ebisu, sampling local Tokyo cuisine.

Escape the city for a day and catch the train to Kamakura, once the capital of Japan and home to the Great Bronze Buddha. The journey takes about an hour, allowing you to explore independently and visit its many temples and shrines, including a unique one where locals wash money for good fortune.

Travel by super-fast bullet train to Kyoto, a journey of about two and a half hours. After checking into your hotel, set out to explore iconic sights, including the Golden Pavilion, the Zen gardens of Ryoanji, and the beautiful terrace of Kiyomizudera.

Spend the day at leisure exploring the compact city of Kyoto. Visit Nishiki Market for silk kimonos, beautiful art, and renowned Japanese knives. Don’t forget to sample delicious local delicacies such as matcha sweets or squid. In the evening, wander the geisha district of Gion, on the lookout for these elusive women as they head to their appointments.

Make the most of your rail pass with a day trip to Hiroshima via bullet train (approximately two hours each way). Visit the poignant Peace Park, the somber Atomic Bomb Dome, and the Memorial Museum. Stroll through the historic Shukkei-en Gardens, representing the seasons and enjoy a local specialty for lunch: okonomiyaki-savory pancakes with various fillings.

This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Miyakojima Island via Naha, the main island’s city and airport. After landing, make your way to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing by the pool or on the stunning sandy beach.

Enjoy a day at leisure on Miyako Island, known for its breathtaking beaches-some of the best in Japan. Relax on the shore or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. For the adventurous, various water sports are available.

Spend another day at leisure, enjoying Maehama, Sunayama, and Yoshino beaches. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider trying scuba diving at one of the nearby sites to discover the vibrant marine life.

Change up the pace today with a short domestic flight to the Yaeyama Islands, where you can explore traditional villages and enjoy jungle walks on Ishigaki, Taketomi, and Iriomote Islands.

Retrace your steps to the airport for your flight back to Tokyo. Upon arrival, take the airport express into the city for your final night. Treat yourself to a meal at one of our recommended restaurants, enjoying yakitori or monjayaki-a savory flour and vegetable pancake with various toppings.

Take the private car to Narita Airport for your return flight home.