Sojourney Travel

Discovery of Japan

May 19 - 28, 2028

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April McDuffie

Sojourney Travel

Overview

Hosted by Travel Advisors Julie Defee and April McDuffie, discover the many faces of Japan on an expertly planned private small-group journey through the country's most iconic destinations over nine unforgettable days. From the dazzling energy of Tokyo to the timeless beauty of Kyoto, the historic treasures of Nara, and the moving legacy of Hiroshima, this itinerary blends modern innovation with centuries-old traditions. Travel effortlessly aboard Japan's world-famous bullet trains while enjoying the comfort of private transportation, knowledgeable English-speaking guides, and carefully selected experiences that bring each destination to life.

Along the way, you'll wander through colorful markets, ancient temples, peaceful shrines, and charming historic districts while experiencing authentic Japanese culture firsthand. Learn the art of sushi-making, participate in a traditional tea ceremony, stroll through Kyoto's famous bamboo forest, encounter the friendly deer of Nara Park, and immerse yourself in breathtaking digital art installations. You'll also have time to browse local shops, sample regional specialties, and savor some of the finest cuisine in the world—from fresh sushi and comforting ramen to elegant kaiseki and Hiroshima's famous okonomiyaki.

The journey concludes with a visit to the sacred island of Miyajima, home to Japan's iconic floating torii gate, and the powerful Peace Memorial Park and Museum in Hiroshima, offering moments of reflection and inspiration. Thoughtfully designed to balance guided sightseeing with free time to explore at your own pace, this exclusive private group tour allows you to experience Japan's rich culture, remarkable history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality with every detail expertly arranged from beginning to end.

Trip Details

✨ How to View & Take Action on Your Proposal in Tern

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Pricing, Inclusions & Important Details

The Discovery of Japan tour has been thoughtfully designed to provide the perfect balance of guided sightseeing, independent exploration, immersive cultural experiences, and time to relax. From the energy of Tokyo to the timeless traditions of Kyo...

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Day 1 · Fri, May 19

Flights to Be Determined

Your overnight flights to Japan are to be determined. Once confirmed, full flight details will be added here. Please plan to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to your international departure. Airfare Estimate (from Atlanta, GA — Not Yet...

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Day 2 · Sat, May 20 · Tokyo, Japan

Arrive in Tokyo – Welcome to Japan!

Konnichiwa! Welcome to Japan! 🇯🇵 Upon arrival in Tokyo Narita or Haneda airport, you will be met by our local English-speaking assistant in the arrival hall and transferred from Narita or Haneda airport to the hotel by private coach. Please note t...

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Hotel Metropolitan Ikebukuro (May 20–23, 3 Nights)

May 20 – May 23 · Check in: 3:00PM

Conveniently located in Tokyo's vibrant Ikebukuro district, Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro offers an ideal blend of comfort, modern amenities, and easy access to the city's top attractions. Connected to one of Tokyo's largest transportation hu...

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Day 3 · Sun, May 21 · Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo Highlights Sightseeing

9:00 – After breakfast at the hotel, meet with your guide in the hotel lobby for a full-day Tokyo tour. Today's stops include: Tsukiji Outer Fish Market — One of the world's great food markets, with some 450 kinds of seafood bought and sold around...

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Day 4 · Mon, May 22 · Tokyo, Japan

Full-Day Mt. Fuji and Hakone Tour

Today is one of the highlights of the trip! 8:00 – After breakfast at the hotel, meet with your English-speaking guide in the hotel lobby for a full-day tour to Mt. Fuji. Mt. Fuji — Japan's most iconic mountain has a reputation for being shy on cl...

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Day 5 · Tue, May 23 · Kyoto, Japan

Tokyo to Kyoto by Bullet Train · Nara Full-Day Tour

This morning, meet your assistant in the hotel lobby for a private coach transfer to Tokyo Station. Luggage will be transported by truck directly to your Kyoto hotel — no need to haul bags on the train. Pack an overnight bag for tonight. Shinkanse...

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Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo (May 23–26, 3 Nights)

May 23 – May 26

17 Nishikujo-Inmachi, Minami-ku, Kyoto 601-8412, Japan

Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo offers a comfortable and welcoming stay just across from Kyoto Station, making it an excellent base for exploring the city's rich history and cultural treasures. Its convenient location provides easy access to Kyoto's fa...

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Day 6 · Wed, May 24 · Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto Half-Day Tour · Tea Ceremony, Pontocho and Gion

A relaxed morning at the hotel before your afternoon tour. Meet your English-speaking guide in the lobby for a half-day by private coach. Tea Ceremony Experience (14:00–15:00) — A professional instructor walks you through the art and meaning of th...

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Optional

Maiko Performance Dinner (additional cost)

Optional: Dinner at local restaurant with Maiko performance at additional cost Meet your English-speaking guide at the hotel lobby and transfer to dinner venue by chartered coach. 19:00–21:00 – Dinner at a local restaurant with Maiko performance. ...

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Day 7 · Thu, May 25 · Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto Full-Day Tour – Kinkakuji, Bamboo Grove & Kiyomizu Temple

After breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide at the hotel at 9 am for a full-day tour by private coach. Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) — Originally a shogun's retirement villa, now one of Japan's most famous Buddhist temples. The top two floors are ...

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Day 8 · Fri, May 26

Kyoto to Hiroshima – Bullet Train Transfer

After breakfast, check out of the Kyoto hotel. Your luggage will be transported by truck directly back to Tokyo — bring an overnight bag for tonight's stay in Hiroshima. 8:30 – Walk with your guide to Kyoto Station (5 minutes) and board the Shinka...

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Miyajima Island & Itsukushima Shrine, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum

12:00 – Begin a full-day sightseeing in Hiroshima by chartered coach. Private transfer to Miyajima-guchi port (45 mins) and board a ferry to Miyajima Island. Visit Miyajima, a small sacred island located in the Inland Sea. It has been a holy place...

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Hotel Granvia Hiroshima (May 26–27, 1 Night)

May 26 – May 27

1-5 Matsubara Cho, Minami-Ku, Hiroshima 732-0822, Japan

Located directly adjacent to Hiroshima Station, Hotel Granvia Hiroshima offers a convenient and comfortable home base for exploring one of Japan’s most meaningful and historic cities. With easy access to Hiroshima’s top attractions, including the ...

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Day 9 · Sat, May 27

Hiroshima to Tokyo – Bullet Train

After breakfast, meet your English-speaking assistant in the hotel lobby and walk to Hiroshima Station (5 minutes on foot). Board the Shinkansen back to Tokyo. Your English-speaking assistant will meet you on the platform at Tokyo Station and tran...

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Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport

May 27 – May 28

2 room options
2-7-1 Hanedakuko, Ota City, Tokyo 144-0041, Japan

Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport offers a convenient and comfortable stay directly connected to Haneda Airport, making it an ideal choice for travelers beginning or ending their Japan journey. Located within the Haneda Airport Garden complex, t...

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Day 10 · Sun, May 28

Tokyo Departure

Breakfast at hotel and check-out. (Regular check-out time at 11:00) At a pre-determined time, you will be met by our local English-speaking assistant in the hotel lobby and transferred to Narita or Haneda Airport by chartered vehicle.

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Flights to Be Determined

We look forward to welcoming you home! 🌏

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🌎International Travel - Important Information (Please read all)

⚠️Passport Information⚠️ Passport must be valid for six months after you return home. Name on your passport must match your airline ticket exactly, or you may not be allowed to board your flight. Passport book with at least 2 blank pages is requir...

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Customs and Immigration

Proof of onward travel and financial means Japanese immigration officers may ask to see proof that you're leaving the country before your 90 days are up. This is typically a return flight or an onward ticket to your next destination. It doesn't ne...

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Client Agreement

When you retain Sojourney Travel to help plan your travel, you're hiring a professional travel advisor to ensure that your trip is tailored to your taste, preferences, and budget. You get the benefit of our skill, experience and training, our prof...

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Pricing Excludes Insurance - Insurance will be quoted once you choose your package.

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Travel Insurance Acknowledgement

Emergencies can happen when you least expect them. Sojourney Travel highly recommends that all clients purchase a travel insurance policy to protect their investment in their travel. Cruise lines, airlines, hotels, and tour operators all charge hi...

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