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Japan- Beyond the Temples

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Your Advisor

Stephanie Austin

Extended Escapes, LLC

Seller of Travel: CA: 2130335-70 | WA: 604118560 | FL: ST41147 | HI: TAR-7575-0

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stephanie@extendedescapes.com

442.317.0279

Day 1 · Tokyo


Arrival in Tokyo (Private Transfer)

Arrive in Tokyo with a private transfer and zero expectations of productivity.

Gentle Tokyo Orientation: Sensō-ji, Explore Asakusa, and Dinner

Begin your journey with intention, not urgency. This afternoon introduces Tokyo at a human pace with an atmospheric visit to Sensō-ji, the city’s oldest Buddhist temple, where lantern-lined walkways, drifting incense, and centuries of ritual set t...

Stay at Park Hotel Tokyo

Location Located directly over Shiodome station, which services the Oedo subway and Yurikamome railway lines, and connected by underground walkway to Shimbashi's subway and railway stations, this air-conditioned hotel is situated within walking di...

Day 2 · Tokyo


Meiji Shrine, Harajuku & Omotesandō

Begin at Meiji Shrine, an oasis of forested calm tucked into the heart of the city, where towering torii gates and gravel paths offer a grounding start. From there, wander through Harajuku and Omotesandō, where cutting-edge architecture, thoughtfu...

Whisky Bar Tour

In the evening, enjoy reserved seating at one or more luxury whisky bars. Expect bartender-guided pours, rare expressions by the glass, and an experience that rewards sitting still. This is Tokyo after dark, done properly.

Day 3 · Tokyo


Tokyo Through Food: Tsukiji and Meguro

Experience Tokyo’s rich culinary traditions on a private gastronomic journey through the famed Tsukiji Outer Market, where the city’s deep-rooted food culture thrives. Meet your guide at your hotel and travel by taxi to this lively market, a maze ...

Sushi Experience

Continue to a local sushi restaurant for a hands-on lesson with a master chef, learning the art of crafting makizushi rolls and delicate nigiri sushi before enjoying your beautifully prepared creations with a side dish and warm miso soup.

Day 4 · Kyoto


Train from Tokyo to Kyoto

Travel by train to Kyoto and feel the pace shift almost immediately upon arrival.

Stay at Noku Kyoto

Location This hotel is located right in the heart of Kyoto. Facilities English-speaking staff at the reception desk in the lobby are ready to assist you with check-in and check-out. The hotel provides a baggage storage service, a safe, a 24-hour s...

Arashiyama Afternoon

Spend the afternoon in Arashiyama, wandering through the bamboo grove as sunlight filters through towering stalks and time seems to soften. Stroll along the river, linger where it feels right, and let the scenery do the talking.

Izakaya Dinner

Dinner is relaxed and unforced, whether in a cozy café or a lively izakaya. Kyoto does not demand attention—it earns it.

Day 5 · Kyoto


Kyoto Highlights

Begin the morning with Kyoto’s greatest hits, including the shimmering beauty of Kinkaku-ji and a wander through the historic streets of Gion.

Tea Ceremony

In the afternoon, enjoy a private tea ceremony in a traditional teahouse. As your host guides you through the rituals of sado, you’ll gain insight into an art form rooted in mindfulness, grace, and intention.

Day 6 · Kyoto


Whisky Distillery or Whisky Bar Tour

Today is devoted to whisky, Kyoto-style. Choose between: A guided distillery visit outside the city, or A curated evening moving between Kyoto’s best whisky bars, each offering a different perspective on Japan’s celebrated spirits. Whether sipping...

Day 7 · Osaka


Travel from Kyoto to Osaka

Head to Osaka to continue your journey.

Stay at Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel

Location This hotel is located in the heart of Osaka. Facilities The hotel has a lift and features 296 rooms. The friendly staff at the reception desk are happy to answer any questions. Amenities include a baggage storage service, a safe and a cur...

Osaka City Tour

Osaka, Japan's unofficial western capital, where the city's rich history and vibrant modernity intertwine. Meet your guide and make efficient use of Osaka's public transportation and explore the must-sees of this mega-city. Commence your day at th...

Dotonbori Food Evening

As evening approaches, immerse yourself in Osaka’s unapologetic love affair with food in Dotonbori. Neon lights, sizzling grills, and irresistible aromas set the stage for a night of street food, laughter, and indulgence. Come hungry. Osaka expect...

Day 8 · Osaka


Temples and Osaka Food Stall Dining

Start the day at Shitennō-ji, one of Japan’s oldest Buddhist temples. Let the rest of the day unfold organically as you wander Osaka’s neighborhoods, dipping into shops, cafés, and food stalls as curiosity dictates. Eat when something smells good....

Day 9 · Osaka / Nara


Nara Day Trip and Evening in Osaka

Explore Nara’s historic splendor and Fushimi’s iconic charm with your private guide on this full-day cultural journey. Meet your guide at your hotel and travel via Kyoto’s efficient public transport to Nara, Japan’s capital in the 8th century. Beg...

Day 10 · Osaka


Final Morning in Japan

Savor a final morning in Japan with one last coffee, one last walk, and one last moment to say, “We should come back.”

Departure to Airport (Private Transfer)

A private transfer takes you to the airport for your journey home, carrying memories shaped not by how much you saw, but by how well it all fit together.