Day 1: Tokyo
Welcome to Japan! After completing customs procedures, you’ll be transferred to your hotel by shared shuttle bus. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. In the afternoon, you’ll receive details about the start of your tour.
Day 2: Tokyo
In the morning, we’ll take a long guided tour—about five hours—through this simply stunning city! Its vibrant energy and cutting-edge neighborhoods coexist with areas full of peace and tranquility.We’ll make a short stop at Zojoji Temple to capture the most beautiful view of the Tokyo Tower. You’ll notice hundreds upon hundreds of Jizo statues, stone-carved deities considered guardians of children, adorned with knitted hats, bibs, and pinwheels.Next, we’ll head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, said to be the busiest intersection in the world. Then we’ll visit Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife.We’ll continue our tour by bus along the elegant Omotesando Avenue, explore the most scenic part of the Imperial Palace and its gardens, and stop to visit the famous Nijubashi Bridge.We’ll drive through AKIHABARA, the “Electric City,” known as the center of Japanese manga and anime culture. Then we’ll head to Tokyo Skytree (admission included), Japan’s tallest structure, where we’ll enjoy an unmatched panoramic view of the city.We’ll end our visit in ASAKUSA, where we’ll explore Sensoji Temple and the famous Nakamise Street. Afterwards, we’ll return to the hotel.6:30 p.m. – We’ll meet our guide in the hotel lobby and take the subway (tickets included) to the Shinjuku area. From there, we’ll enjoy a walk through this lively district before heading to a local restaurant for dinner (included). We’ll return to the hotel by subway, accompanied by our guide.Note: The order of the visits may vary depending on the admission time for Tokyo Skytree. In case of bad weather or other exceptional circumstances, access to Tokyo Skytree may be limited. In that case, an alternative visit to another iconic city viewpoint will be offered.
Day 3: Tokyo - Mount Fuji - Kawaguchiko
We travel toward the beautiful Mount Fuji area, enjoying the scenic landscapes along our route. Our first stop is Arakurayama Sengen Park, famous for its beautiful pagodas and for offering some of the most iconic and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji.We then continue to KAWAGUCHIKO, an idyllic town of charming houses, flowers, and mountains beside a stunning lake. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the Fuji Sengen Shrine, a magical place surrounded by tall trees — traditionally the starting point of the pilgrimage up Mount Fuji. We’ll take a moment to give thanks at the shrine for the opportunity to visit such a spiritually rich and enchanting site.Afterward, we’ll enjoy a pleasant boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko, then begin our ascent toward Mount Fuji via the road that leads to the “Fifth Station.” Driving through spectacular forests and landscapes, we’ll reach an altitude of 2,305 meters (7,562 feet).Note: In winter, the route to the Fifth Station is often closed due to snow or weather conditions; during those times, we’ll go as far as we’re permitted.We’ll return to Kawaguchiko and stay overnight at a Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), where you can relax and enjoy the Onsen (public hot spring bath). Dinner included.Note: In the planned Ryokan, some rooms are Japanese-style with tatami mats, while others are Western-style. Occasionally, accommodation may be provided in a Western-style hotel instead.
Day 4: Kawaguchiko - Iyashi No Sato Nenba - Toyota - Kyoto
In the morning, we’ll follow a scenic road that winds around picturesque lakes to visit Iyashi no Sato Nenba, a small village that was destroyed by a typhoon in 1966 and later restored as an open-air museum. Its traditional houses have been converted into arts and crafts shops, restaurants, and cultural exhibits, offering a glimpse into Japan’s past.Next, we’ll visit the breathtaking Shiraito Falls, one of Japan’s most stunning natural attractions, with cascading water that spans a height of 20 meters.From there, we’ll continue to Nagoya, where we’ll visit the Toyota Museum (admission included), a must-see destination for car enthusiasts and those curious about automotive innovation.Finally, we’ll proceed to Kyoto for our overnight stay.
Day 5: Kyoto
We’ll spend the entire day exploring Kyoto, Japan’s capital from 794 to 1868 and home to the Imperial Court. Remarkably, Kyoto was the only major Japanese city spared from bombing during World War II, allowing it to retain its rich artistic heritage. Notably, the Kyoto Protocol, aimed at limiting greenhouse gas emissions, was signed here in 1997.We’ll include a visit to Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Our tour will begin in Arashiyama, where we’ll admire the Togetsukyo Bridge, or “Bridge over the Moon.” This spot offers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding landscape.We’ll then visit the Tenryuji Temple, one of Kyoto’s “five great Zen temples” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by a serene walk through its mystical bamboo forest.Next, we’ll explore the magnificent Fushimi Inari Shrine; the Imperial Palace; and the Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the “Golden Pavilion,” surrounded by its spectacular gardens. (The order of the visits may vary.)After the tour, you can enjoy some time to stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s vibrant traditional district, known for its lively atmosphere and geishas.
Day 6: Kyoto - Nara - Osaka
We’ll depart for Nara to visit Todaiji, a magnificent Buddhist temple built in 752, home to a giant Buddha statue. Here, you’ll also have the chance to take photos and interact with the friendly deer that roam freely in the surrounding park. Lunch will be included.Afterward, we’ll visit the Horyu-ji Buddhist Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses a seminary, monasteries, and temples. Its central pagoda is one of the oldest wooden structures in the world and holds the distinction of being Japan’s oldest Buddhist temple, serving as an important place of worship.Our journey will then take us to Osaka, where we’ll arrive in the evening. Accommodation will be in this vibrant and modern city, known as Japan’s second-largest urban area. Later, we’ll visit Dotonbori, a lively and colorful district renowned for its bustling nightlife.
Day 7: Osaka - Beijing
After breakfast, we’ll head to the airport for our included flight to Beijing, the capital of the People’s Republic of China. Upon arrival, we’ll provide a transfer to the hotel. In the late afternoon, we’ll have our first introduction to this impressive city, starting with a transfer to the famous Wangfujing Street, a lively pedestrian and commercial avenue filled with shops and restaurants. Dinner will be included. Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel.
Day 8: Beijing
An exciting day awaits us as we explore the highlights of Beijing, the vibrant capital of China. We’ll embark on a full-day tour, discovering some of the city´s most iconic avenues. Our journey will take us to the Great Chinese Imperial Palace, better known as the Forbidden City, the most majestic architectural complex in China, where 24 emperors ruled for nearly 500 years.We’ll also visit Jingshan Park, home to Coal Hill, one of the best-preserved imperial gardens in Beijing. From its summit, we’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Forbidden City—weather permitting. Next, we’ll stroll through Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, from where we can admire the Great National Theater, also known as the Beijing Opera House.Lunch will be included.Our journey will continue with a visit to the Summer Palace, the imperial retreat of the Qing Dynasty, renowned for its picturesque gardens and serene lakes. In the afternoon, we’ll immerse ourselves in traditional Beijing life with a tricycle ride through the historic Hutong neighborhoods. Here, we’ll experience the city´s rich cultural heritage, explore traditional shops, and visit a Siheyuan, a classic courtyard house that reflects the city´s architectural charm.We’ll then return to the hotel for an overnight stay.Note: Due to heritage protection measures and visitor safety regulations, the governing body of the Forbidden City has temporarily reduced daily visitor capacity. As a result, we cannot guarantee this visit. If access is unavailable, we’ll instead explore the Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple, both of which are emblematic sites in Chinese history and culture.
Day 9: Beijing
Today’s journey will take us to one of the most iconic landmarks in the world—the Great Wall of China, at the Mutianyu section. This awe-inspiring architectural masterpiece spans over 2,000 years of history, winding through breathtaking mountain landscapes. We’ll take a cable car up and down to one of the most scenic sections, offering spectacular views of this legendary structure.On our way back to Beijing, we’ll visit the vibrant 798 Art District, a former military factory that has been transformed into a dynamic hub of contemporary art, filled with galleries, studios, and creative spaces.Our next stop will be the Temple of Heaven, one of China’s largest and most significant sacred complexes, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stunning architectural masterpiece was where emperors once prayed for good harvests.Before returning to the hotel, we’ll take a moment to unwind after this eventful day with a soothing foot massage, followed by a Tai Chi class—a perfect way to experience the balance and harmony of traditional Chinese culture.To bid farewell to Beijing, we’ll enjoy a lacquered duck dinner, a local culinary tradition that will leave a lasting impression.
Day 10: Beijing - Taian - Qufu
After breakfast, we’ll head to the train station to board one of China’s state-of-the-art high-speed trains. Traveling at 300 km/h, we’ll reach Taian in just two hours. This historic city lies at the foot of Mount Taishan, the most sacred mountain in China and a revered site of spiritual pilgrimage for centuries.Our first stop will be the Dai Temple, a magnificent Taoist complex dating back to the 11th century. This temple marks the starting point of the ancient pilgrimage route to the summit.Lunch will be included.In the afternoon, we’ll take a cable car up to the legendary “Gates of Heaven” on Mount Taishan. The final ascent must be made on foot, climbing its steep staircase alongside hundreds of devoted pilgrims, an experience filled with history and spiritual significance.As the day comes to an end, we’ll continue our journey by bus to Qufu, the birthplace of Confucius.
Day 11: Qufu - Xuzhou
Today, we’ll explore Qufu, the city of Confucius, the great philosopher of the 5th century B.C. and the founder of Confucianism. Our visit includes the Confucius Mansion and the Confucius Temple, two remarkable sites that offer insight into his legacy and influence on Chinese culture.We’ll then continue our journey to Xuzhou.Lunch will be included.In Xuzhou, we’ll visit the impressive underground Mausoleum of the Han Emperor, a fascinating archaeological site. Inside the museum, we’ll marvel at the terracotta army—a remarkable discovery reminiscent of the famous warriors in Xi’an, though on a smaller scale.Before reaching our hotel, we’ll enjoy a scenic drive past Lake Yunlong, a beautiful body of water located in the heart of the city.Overnight stay in Xuzhou.
Day 12: Xuzhou - Nanjing
We’ll depart from Xuzhou early in the morning, making our way to Nanjing, a vibrant city of eight million residents, often regarded as one of the most pleasant in China. We’ll arrive around 12:30 p.m., just in time to experience the energy of this dynamic metropolis, known for its bustling commercial life and rich history.Our visit will take us to Purple Mountain, home to the impressive Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, a grand tribute to the founding father of modern China. We’ll also explore the picturesque Linggu Temple, a serene and historically significant Buddhist site nestled among lush landscapes.Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore the city at your own pace.Overnight stay in Nanjing.
Day 13: Nanjing - Suzhou - Tongli - Shanghai
We’ll depart for Suzhou, a city renowned for its exquisite classical gardens, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Historically, Suzhou was the world’s leading silk producer and has long been associated with beauty and elegance.Our visit includes entrance to the Garden of the Humble Administrator, the largest and most famous garden in the city, where winding pathways, tranquil ponds, and lush greenery create a masterpiece of traditional Chinese landscaping.You’ll then have free time to explore the charming Pingjiang Road, a picturesque historic street lined with canals, traditional teahouses, and artisan shops.Lunch will be included.In the afternoon, we’ll continue to Tongli, a delightful water town where narrow canals, stone bridges, and traditional houses evoke the charm of ancient China. We’ll enjoy a scenic boat ride through its tranquil waterways, offering a glimpse into the town’s timeless beauty.Our journey will then take us to Shanghai, where we’ll check in for the night.
Day 14: Shanghai
Our tour of Shanghai will take us through its most iconic sights. We´ll begin in Pudong, Shanghai’s modern financial district, located across the Huangpu River. This area is home to towering skyscrapers, including the iconic Pearl Tower.We’ll then take a scenic ferry ride across the Shanghai River, offering spectacular views of both the historic and contemporary sides of the city.Next, we’ll stroll through the Old City and visit the serene Yuyuan Garden, a beautifully preserved private garden built during the Ming Dynasty. Here, we’ll also experience a traditional tea ceremony, an integral part of China’s rich cultural heritage.Our tour will continue through Xintiandi, one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods, known for its stylish boutiques, cafés, and vibrant atmosphere.Lunch will be included.In the afternoon, we’ll explore Tianzifang, a former residential district now famous for its maze-like alleys, charming craft shops, and contemporary art galleries.We’ll conclude our day with a walk along The Bund, where grand colonial-era buildings reflect the influence of European trade in Shanghai.Free afternoon. If you wish, you can enjoy a boat trip to see Shanghai at night, it will be an unforgettable experience.
Day 15: Shanghai
After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.
