The Golden Route

Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto

Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are the big three for the greatest Japanese adventure. Full of history and tradition, Japan will clash with everything you thought you knew about the world. Street food in Osaka’s Dotonbori mixed with sake tastings in Kyoto expand much more than a foreigner’s palate. Experience Buddhist culture and traditions while walking The Philosopher's Path, stopping into Buddhist temples and zen gardens along the way.  And of course, witness the packed train cars, 37 million inhabitants, and the never-ending neon glow that is Tokyo. Japan rewards those who are curious and brave enough to take it all in.

  • Amsterdam

Itinerary

14 days, 13 nights

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo

Welcome to Japan! Take your first look at the largest city in the world, get a bite to eat, and try to get some rest.

Day 2: Free day - Explore Tokyo at your pace

Flying halfway around the world will drain your energy, use today to acclimate yourself with your new surroundings. Relaxing recommendations include Ueno park or Meiji Jinju Shrine.

Day 3: Dive into Japanese culture through teamLabs and more

Find something strange, learn something new, and of course, eat great food! End your night with prearranged entrance to the modern art exhibit, teamLab Planets Tokyo.

Day 4: Travel to Osaka

Depart Tokyo via the the Shinkansen bullet train and prepare for Osaka, considered “Japan’s kitchen”, packed with energy and fun. You may also enjoy shopping in Amerikamura or wandering the Osaka Castle grounds.

Day 5: Ride the energy of Osaka

Today’s day in Osaka is filled with fun. Watch a professional baseball game (where beers cost less than $5) followed by a tasty afternoon in Dotonbori.

Day 6: Hiroshima day trip

Take the bullet train to the incredible city of Hiromishima. Travelers can choose from a variety of museums and activities, including Hiroshima Castle, Itsukushima Shrine, and the Peace Memorial Museum.

Day 7: Old Kyoto

Zip 15 minutes (at ~200 MPH) to Kyoto and experience the old architecture and charming atmosphere of Higashiyama Ward. A short walk away brings you to the Kyoto National Museum, where priceless art from foreign cultures is held.

Day 8: Philosopher’s Path and free day

There is no time crunch today, walk the Philosopher’s Path at your pace, stopping at the intriguing spiritual sites and aromatic food stalls.

Day 9: Free day with optional day trip to Nara

Enjoy a free day in Kyoto to uncover more of its hidden charm, or take a short one-hour trip to nearby Nara. Both cities offer rich experiences, from peaceful nature walks and sacred sites to distinctive local flavors, all without spending a yen.

Day 10: Sake tasting and dinner

Follow a sake sommelier as they explain and share the different types and flavors of sake. End the night at a welcoming, traditional Japanese restaurant.

Day 11: Mount Fuji Escape

Head towards Tokyo, disembarking at the town of Fuji before finally getting even closer to the immensity that is Mount Fuji. Spend the day in Yamanakako, taking in the views and appreciating nature.

Day 12: Back to Tokyo - free day

There are unlimited options for a free day in Tokyo. Shibyua crossing, Tokyo Skytree, arcades, and so much more. Check out The Perfect Day in Tokyo for more inspiration.

Day 13: Food and walking tour

Cap off your journey with a flavorful finale: a guided food tour through Tokyo’s culinary scene. If there’s anything you haven’t tasted yet, this is your chance. Stroll from one mouthwatering stop to the next, savoring the atmosphere that will leave you wanting more. 

Day 14: Fly Home

What’s included?

  • Flights into Amsterdam and out of Paris. Selected to fit your schedule and budget. Along with pre-arranged transportation and detailed advice for movement around these two great cities.

  • 4 playful nights in Amsterdam followed by 5 amazing nights in Paris. And fitting accommodations for such a special trip.

  • From museum tickets to restaurant reservations, everything you could hope to see or do will be ready before you even arrive.

Trips begin at $5,200*

Itinerary Highlights

Osaka

  • JPN baseball game

  • Hiroshima day trip

  • Shopping, food, and bars

Kyoto

  • Philosopher’s Path

  • Nara day trip

  • Sake tasting

Tokyo

  • teamLab Plantes Tokyo

  • Food and walking tour

* All itineraries are priced per person for groups of 2, prices will most likely change per person based on the number of travelers.