Welcome to Japan Travel Guide
Japan is a land where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with futuristic innovation, making it one of the world’s most captivating travel destinations. From the buzzing energy of Tokyo with its neon skylines and cutting-edge culture, to the timeless charm of Kyoto’s temples and tea houses, and the spiritual serenity of Nara’s deer-filled parks, every corner of Japan tells a story. No trip is complete without witnessing the iconic beauty of Mount Fuji, a symbol of natural splendor and cultural pride.
Beyond its famous highlights, Japan is home to hidden gems waiting to be discovered—from quaint villages tucked in the Japanese Alps to peaceful islands like Naoshima, where art and nature blend in harmony. Seasonal beauty further elevates the journey: in spring, cherry blossoms (sakura) paint the landscapes in delicate pinks, while autumn transforms the country into a canvas of fiery reds, golds, and ambers.
A vacation to Japan offers something for everyone—families, couples, and solo travelers alike—whether it’s exploring historic shrines, indulging in world-class cuisine, or enjoying high-speed bullet train journeys. Perfect for all generations, Japan combines history, nature, and modern wonders, creating an unforgettable travel experience.
Things To Do
Explore Tokyo’s Shibuya & Shinjuku
Visit Kyoto’s Temples and Tea Houses
Meet the Friendly Deer in Nara
See Mount Fuji Up Close
Ride the Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
Stay in a Traditional Ryokan
Experience Cherry Blossoms in Spring
Admire Autumn Colors (Koyo)
Discover Japan’s Hidden Gems
Indulge in Japanese Cuisine
What can I expect
Essence of Japan
Day 1 Arrival in Tokyo
Arrival & Hotel Check-in
Upon arrival at Tokyo Narita or Haneda Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your private driver who will escort your family to your centrally located Tokyo hotel. After checking in (standard check-in time: 3:00 PM), take time to settle in and refresh from your journey. Tokyo’s energy is infectious, but today is about gentle acclimatization. Explore your hotel’s immediate surroundings at your own pace, perhaps discovering a local convenience store (konbini) – a uniquely Japanese experience that will fascinate your child with its incredible variety of snacks and drinks.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at your leisure, exploring nearby restaurants or trying hotel dining options.
Day 2 Tokyo City Discovery
After a hearty hotel breakfast, meet your expert English-speaking guide in the lobby for an exciting exploration of Tokyo’s highlights. Begin at the historic Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, where your family can participate in traditional rituals like drawing fortune papers (omikuji). The adjacent Nakamise Shopping Street offers perfect opportunities to purchase traditional snacks and souvenirs that will delight your 9-year-old.
Ascend the magnificent Tokyo Skytree to the 350-meter observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views – an experience that will create lasting memories for the entire family. Continue to the Imperial Palace for photos at this historic site, home to Japan’s emperor.
Afternoon Adventures: Spend free time at the upscale Ginza Shopping District, followed by the world-famous Shibuya Crossing – one of the busiest pedestrian intersections globally. Your child will be amazed by the organized chaos of thousands of people crossing simultaneously.
Evening: Return to your hotel with time to rest before exploring dinner options independently.
Day 3 Nikko World Heritage Excursion
Today’s journey takes your family to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its natural beauty and spiritual significance. After breakfast, meet your guide for this enriching day trip.
Experience the power of Kegon Waterfall (97 meters high) via elevator to the lower observation deck – a thrilling experience for children and adults alike. The pristine Lake Chuzenji offers perfect photo opportunities against a backdrop of mountains.
The highlight is Toshogu Shrine, an ornate complex dedicated to the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. The intricate wood carvings and colorful decorations will captivate your family while learning about Japan’s feudal history.
Return: Evening return to Tokyo, allowing time for family reflection on the day’s cultural discoveries.
Day 4 Mount Fuji & Hakone Adventure
Begin an unforgettable day combining Japan’s most iconic mountain with natural hot springs. After breakfast and hotel checkout, arrange luggage forwarding to Kyoto (a convenient Japanese service).
Mount Fuji 5th Station at 2,300 meters elevation offers spectacular views (weather permitting) and the closest accessible point to Japan’s sacred mountain. Your child will be thrilled by the altitude and panoramic vistas.
Lake Ashi Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on this volcanic lake while admiring Mount Fuji’s reflection. The Hakone Ropeway cable car journey between Togendai and Owakudani stations provides aerial views of the volcanic valley, including the famous black eggs cooked in natural hot springs.
Evening: Check into your Hakone hotel, known for traditional Japanese hospitality (omotenashi).
Day 5 Bullet Train to Kyoto
Experience Japan’s engineering marvel – the Shinkansen bullet train! After breakfast, transfer to Odawara Station for your journey to Kyoto. The 2nd class seats are comfortable and spacious, perfect for families. Your 9-year-old will be amazed by the train’s speed (up to 320 km/h) and punctuality.
Arrival in Kyoto: Transfer to your Kyoto hotel via private car. The ancient capital’s atmosphere immediately contrasts with Tokyo’s modern energy. Spend the afternoon settling in and exploring the hotel’s neighborhood at your own pace.
Day 6 Kyoto Cultural Immersion
Discover Kyoto’s timeless beauty with your expert guide. Begin at the magical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo creates a natural cathedral – a photographer’s paradise and wonderfully immersive for children. Adjacent Tenryu-ji Temple showcases classical Japanese garden design.
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) stands as Kyoto’s most photographed landmark. The gold-leafed temple reflected in its surrounding pond creates picture-perfect moments.
Afternoon: Explore Nijo Castle with its famous “nightingale floors” designed to squeak as a security measure – a detail that will fascinate your young traveler. End at Nishiki Market, known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” where your family can sample local specialties and observe traditional food preparation.
Day 7 Kyoto & Nara Discovery
Begin at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates creating tunnels up the mountainside. The hiking element adds adventure while the spiritual atmosphere provides cultural education.
Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, offering panoramic city views from its wooden platform. The temple’s architecture, built without using a single nail, demonstrates traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
Nara Excursion: Journey to Japan’s first permanent capital. Nara Park delights families with over 1,000 sacred deer roaming freely – your child can purchase special crackers to feed these gentle creatures. Todai-ji Temple houses the Great Buddha statue, one of Japan’s largest bronze Buddha statues, creating an awe-inspiring experience for visitors of all ages.
Day 8 Departure
Farewell to Japan
After breakfast and hotel checkout, your private transfer will take you to Kansai International Airport for your departure flight. Depart with hearts full of memories from Japan’s perfect blend of tradition, technology, and natural beauty.
Festivals
Cherry Blossom Festivals (Hanami) – Late March to Early April
Spring in Japan is magical with blooming sakura trees. From Tokyo’s Ueno Park to Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path, locals and travelers gather under pink canopies for picnics, music, and celebrations.
Gion Matsuri, Kyoto – July
Sapporo Snow Festival, Hokkaido – Early February (Winter)
Pack a Book for Your Journey
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At Ananta & Beyond, we believe in curating journeys exclusively for you. Whether you would like tweaks on the above sample itinerary or would like a brand new vacation experience, please reach out to us with your preferences and we will be happy to design your personalised tour!
