Japan, the golden route

This tour of Japan is ideal for discovering all the highlights, from the futuristic skyline of Tokyo to the ancient temples of Kyoto. You'll wander through bustling metropolises, discover traditional tea houses, admire the iconic red torii gates and experience the serene beauty of Japanese gardens. The Golden Route is the perfect introduction to this fascinating country.

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo.

Upon arrival at Haneda Airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you can start exploring the area or relax at your Caractère hotel.

Day 2: Explore Tokyo

Together with a private guide, you will discover the versatility of Tokyo today. You begin in Asakusa, the old part of town, where the impressive Sensoji Temple and the colorful Nakamise shopping street await you. Next, you cruise the Sumidagawa River to the Hamarikyu Garden, an oasis of tranquility in the middle of the city. Here you will enjoy traditional matcha tea in a tea house. You will end the day at the Meiji Shrine and the fashionable Omotesando shopping street.

Day 3: Tsukiji Market & free afternoon

In the morning, visit the famous Tsukiji outdoor market, where you will soak up the smell of fresh fish, seafood and local delicacies. You'll taste traditional Japanese flavors and watch artisans sell their wares. The rest of the day is free to spend in the city or your hotel.

Day 4: From Tokyo to Hakone

You will travel by train to Hakone, a picturesque area known for its hot springs and views of Mount Fuji. Here you will explore the varied landscape with cable cars, boat trains and a pirate boat ride on Lake Ashi. You stay overnight in a traditional ryokan, where you dine according to the kaiseki-style and relax in an onsen, Japanese hot spring bath.

Day 5: Hakone - Kyoto by shinkansen

After breakfast, take the high-speed train to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. This historic city has countless temples, palaces and tea houses, and exudes the atmosphere of ancient Japan. The rest of the day is free to explore the narrow streets and hidden alleys at your own pace.

Day 6: Kyoto's temples & shrines

Today you visit the iconic Fushimi Inari-taisha, known for its thousands of bright red torii gates. Then admire the wooden Kiyomizu-dera temple and the Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion that sparkles in the sunlight. The day ends in Kamishichiken, Kyoto's oldest geisha district, where you will taste the authentic atmosphere of ancient Japan.

Day 7: Nara & Kasuga Shrine

You travel to Nara, the former capital of Japan and one of the best-preserved historical cities. Here you will visit the Isuien Garden, the impressive Todaiji Temple complex with the Great Buddha and the picturesque Kasuga Shrine with its hundreds of lanterns. Deer roam freely in Nara Park, which is special to see. At the end of the day you will return to Kyoto.

Day 8: Depart from Kyoto

Enjoy one last morning in Kyoto before being picked up for your transfer to Kansai Airport. Time to say goodbye to Japan, or continue your journey in another region.