9 Day itinerary in Japan, Asia
9 Day Independent Japan
Ready to say Konnichiwa to Japan? Famed for futuristic cities, ancient traditions, drool-worthy food, and outstanding natural beauty, Japan is a country that will bring all your senses to life and send you home wanting more. Over 9 days visit Tokyo, Odawara, Hakone, Kyoto, and Osaka, where you’ll se... Read More
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By Angie Tran and Hannah
Overview
Physical Difficulty
Light
Recommended Age
Everyone
Operated in
English, Spanish
GUIDANCE
On Some Day Trips
starting point
Tokyo
trip type
Private
trip attributes
Meet local people
Outdoors & Nature
Classic Sights
Start
Night
End
Highlights
1
Tokyo - Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the largest urban area in the world.
2
Hakone - Odawara - a city located southwest of Tokyo and who does not enjoy much reputation
3
Kyoto - a beautiful vibrant city where modern life meets old traditional Japan
4
Osaka - the central metropolis of the Kansai region and the largest of the Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto trio
1
Tokyo - Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the largest urban area in the world.
2
Hakone - Odawara - a city located southwest of Tokyo and who does not enjoy much reputation
3
Kyoto - a beautiful vibrant city where modern life meets old traditional Japan
4
Osaka - the central metropolis of the Kansai region and the largest of the Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto trio
Itinerary
Standard ($)
Accommodation Categories
Day 1
Tokyo Arrival: Embracing the Vibrancy of Japan's Capital
After a long journey, you finally arrive in Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan. As you step off the plane, you're greeted by the efficient and impeccably clean surroundings of Narita or Haneda Airport. Take a moment to savor the excitement of being in a new place, filled with endless possibilities and discoveries.
Check-in to Hotel:
After a short journey from the airport, you arrive at your hotel, ready to start your Tokyo adventure. Check-in is smooth and efficient, with the hotel staff welcoming you warmly and providing all the necessary information about your stay. Take a moment to freshen up and settle into your comfortable accommodations, knowing that you're in the heart of one of the most exciting cities in the world.
Free Time:
With the rest of the day at your disposal, take the opportunity to explore the immediate surroundings of your hotel and get acquainted with the neighborhood. Depending on your location, you might find yourself in the vibrant district of Shinjuku, the upscale shopping mecca of Ginza, or the historic Asakusa area. Take a leisurely stroll, soak in the sights and sounds of Tokyo, and perhaps indulge in some delicious street food or browse local shops for souvenirs.
Accommodation:
- Budget for starter: Shiba Park Hotel
Day 2
Panoramic Tokyo a Day Bus Tour with Bay Cruise (Bus Tour)
About the activity
Discover Tokyo's top attractions by bus. In morning you can feel the Japanese history going through Meiji Shrine, the imperial palace and Sensoij Temple in Asakusa. Then experience modern Japan at the Tokyo Sky Tree tower and Tokyo Bay Cruise.
07:50 Meet Shinjyuku Love Statue.
08:00 Departure from Love Statue, drive by Kabuki cho
08:30-09:20 Meiji Jingu Shinto Shrine
09:30-10:20 Imperial Palace (Visit either the East Garden or Nijyubashi Bridged in the outer garden)
11:00-13:10 Asakusa Sensoji temple, Kaminari-mon, and Nakamise shopping street
13:30-15:00 Tokyo Sky Stree. Skip the line admission to 350m high observatory
15:40-16:30 Odaiba Tokyo Bay Side area
16:40-17:00 Tokyo Bay Cruise
17:30-18:00 End of the tour at Shinjyuku station
Included
Macha drink or Macha gelato , Lunch and soft drink , Tokyo Bay cruise , Bus (Multilingual audio guide :English, Spanish, French, Italian, Chinese, Indonesia, Thai, Ukrainian/Russian), , English speaking tour guide, Admission fee to Sky Tree observatory deck (350meters)
Not included
Hotel pick up, Gratuities
Meals: Lunch
Accommodation:
- Budget for starter: Shiba Park Hotel
Day 3
Tokyo Leisure Day: Embrace the City's Charm at Your Own Pace
Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the largest urban area in the world. Tokyo is the financial center of Japan and a blend of high-technology and tradition. Tokyo is huge and a well-organized modern city. The city landscape of Tokyo consists of temples and shrines, quiet nature reserves, historical buildings, futuristic architecture and neon lights. The core of the city includes Chiyoda and Chuo. This area features the impressive Imperial Palace, the national government buildings, the famous shopping area of Ginza, Tsukiji fish market, Akihabara electronics market and the historic Tokyo Station. The quiet neighborhood of Asakusa has some must-see attractions such as the Sensoji Temple, the Nakamise-dōri shopping arcade, and the Golden Poo. Nearby is the Ueno area, including the Ameyoko market. A perfect spot to shop for traditional gifts and see a great Buddhist temple. Another major attraction of the city is the Meiji Shrine, located in Shibuya. Tokyo is a unique city that has something for everyone, busy shopping areas, famous nightlife, historical sights, quiet parks, and amazing scenery.
As you reflect on your leisure day in Tokyo, filled with memorable experiences and delightful discoveries, you'll come to appreciate the city's unique blend of tradition and modernity, offering something for every traveler to enjoy. Whether you're exploring cultural landmarks, indulging in culinary delights, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Tokyo never fails to captivate and inspire.
Accommodation:
- Budget for starter: Shiba Park Hotel
Day 4
Hakone free pass (2 days)
Hakone is one of Japan's primary hot spring (onsen) areas that are close to Tokyo and still remain the rich nature without artificial development. The Hakone Freepass is a discounted ticket offering coverage of all the popular sightseeing destinations in Hakone. Hakone Freepass included a round-trip ticket on the Odakyu Line and able to get on-and-off freely within the designated area, also the Hakone Freepass included some discounts at the specific sightseeing location. The validity of this pass comes with a choice of 2 day and 3 days. The pass provides access to 8 different transportation systems in the area, such as the Hakone Tozan Line, the Hakone Ropeway, the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise and etc, allowing you to explore Hakone freedomly throughout your journey. Enjoy a wonderful trip to Hakone with the convenient and economical Hakone Freepass
This pass covers following transportations:
Round-trip ticket (between Shinjuku Station and Odawara Station) for the Odakyu Lines
*Additional fee becomes payable if you would like to take Limited Express Romancecar.
Unlimited rides on 8 transportation in Hakone area
1. Hakone Tozan Train
2. Hakone Tozan Cable Car
3. Hakone Ropeway
4. Hakone Sightseeing Cruise
5. Hakone Tozan Bus (designated areas only)
6. Odakyu Hakone Highway Bus (designated areas only)
7. Tokai Bus (designated areas only)
8.“KANKO SHISETSU-MEGURI” Bus (Tourist Attraction Sightseeing Bus)
Meeting point
Odakyu Sightseeing Service Center, Shinjuku West
Accommodation:
- Budget for starter: Hakone Manten-no-hoshi
Day 5
Transfer from Hakone to Kyoto: Seamless Travel with the Hakone 2-Day Pass
Begin your day by checking out from your accommodation in Hakone. Take a moment to enjoy the serene surroundings and bid farewell to the scenic beauty of this mountainous region.
With the Hakone 2-Day Pass in hand, you have the flexibility to explore Hakone's attractions at your own pace. Depending on your interests, you can choose from a variety of transportation options included in the pass, such as the Hakone Tozan Train, Hakone Tozan Cable Car, Hakone Ropeway, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, and Hakone Tozan Bus.
When you're ready to depart from Hakone, use your Hakone 2-Day Pass to access the included transportation services for your journey to Kyoto. Whether you choose to travel by train, bus, or a combination of both, the pass provides convenience and flexibility for your transfer.
Upon arrival in Kyoto, make your way to your accommodation and settle in for your stay in Japan's cultural capital. Take some time to relax and unwind after your journey, and perhaps freshen up before heading out to explore the city.
For over a thousand years Kyoto was the capital of Japan and it is probably the best preserved of all its cities. It’s a beautiful vibrant city where modern life meets old traditional Japan. The city is surrounded by the mountains of Western Honshu and is a perfect base when visiting the Kansai region. The city is rich in heritage sites and culture, it has a great variety and number of restaurants and is fairly easy to navigate around. Its rich culture and heritage permeates from each and every architecture and customs. Kyoto has thousands of temples and shrines, including the spectacular golden Kinkaku-ji, Ryoanji with its Zen garden, the popular Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangendo with its life-size statues of Kannon and the more tranquil Tenryu-ji in Arashiyama. Also in Arashiyama, there is the famous Bamboo Grove. A wonderful thing to do in Kyoto is a walking tour of Gion, one of the main Geisha districts. Its wooden buildings and lamps create the perfect ambiance. Kyoto is one of the greatest historical cities in the world, filled with temples, shrines, teahouses and imperial residences. Kyoto is a city steeped in culture and heritage it’s a must for anyone with an interest in Japanese history and culture.
Accommodation:
- Budget for starter: THE POCKET HOTEL Kyoto-Shijokarasuma
Day 6
Kyoto Day Tour (Tenryu-ji Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Fushimi Inari Taisha
☆See Kyoto’s most famous sites in one day on comfortable bus tour.
☆About 2 hours free times in Arashiyama, Bamboo Forest area.
☆Multi-language audio guide in English, Chinese and Korean are available on board.
Operating period:
Plan
<BF> Kyoto Day Tour (Tenryu-ji Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine)
★With English・Chinese・Korean audio guide★
Duration: about 6 hours
*Lunch is not included in the tour. Instead passengers can enjoy their lunch around Arashiyama area of their own choice.
[You will ride together with the BE course.]
<Schedule>
9:50 Meet at JR Kyoto Station Karasuma Exit Kyoto Sightseeing Bus Terminal
* Please arrive at least 20 minutes before departure and show your voucher either by mobile or by paper device for exchange boarding ticket. Please give yourself extra time to exchange the ticket.
*You cannot board the bus with a mobile or paper voucher.
10:10 departure
◇ Stroll around Tenryu-ji Temple, bamboo grove, and Arashiyama (140 minutes, including time to visit Tenryu-ji Temple)
Have lunch around Arashiyama and visit the Tenryu-ji Garden on your own (admission fee included)
*You can only visit the garden of Tenryu-ji Temple.
You will get the following discounts when walking around Arashiyama.
(1) Discounts on admission to Arashiyama Music Box Museum (there are closed days)
(2) Discounts on rickshaw rides/yakata bune
(3) Discounts on footbath using
(4) Discount prices for meals, drinks, and shopping
◇Kinkakuji (40 minutes)
The official name of Kinkakuji is Rokuonji, which is symbolic of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu's Kitayama culture era and is famous for its shimmering lacquered gold-leaf relic hall. The reflection of Kinkakuji on the lake's surface shows each season's different faces.
◇Fushimi Inari Shrine (70 minutes)
Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine of the 30,000 Inari Taisha shrines nationwide. It is also the No. 1 sightseeing spot that foreigners visiting Japan want to see, and the "Senbon Torii," a row of vermillion torii gates, is a must-see. You can enjoy a mysterious Japanese space that feels like entering another world.
16:15 Arrive at JR Kyoto Station Karasuma Exit Kyoto Sightseeing Bus Terminal (planned) , tour end.
Available Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
Starting times10:10:00
Included
Bus fare Japanese guide Admission fee On-board audio guide (English,Chinese,Korean)
Not included
Lunch
Meeting point
Address: 600-8216 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto. Kyoto Station.
This tour is fully booked from 20 MAR 2024 to 10 APR 2024. So we will operate the tour "Sky Hop Bus Kyoto (Hop-on Hop-off Bus Kyoto)" instead.
Accommodation:
- Budget for starter: THE POCKET HOTEL Kyoto-Shijokarasuma
Day 7
Journey from Kyoto to Osaka: Gateway to Kansai Adventure
Start your day by checking out from your accommodation in Kyoto. Take a moment to appreciate the serene ambiance of Kyoto's traditional neighborhoods before bidding farewell to this historic city.
Embark on a smooth transfer from Kyoto to Osaka, a journey that typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes by train. Upon arrival in Osaka, head to your accommodation to drop off your luggage and freshen up before starting your leisure day in the city.
Osaka is a big modern city in Japan. It is the central metropolis of the Kansai region and the largest of the Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto trio. It is a lively and exciting place that exudes a definite charm. Its history is rich, its scenery is gorgeous, and it's well-located close to the major cultural centers of Kyoto and Nara, and just a few hours by bullet train to Tokyo. Osaka has two major city centers, Kita, north side, and Minami, south side. Kita is a large shopping and business area, Minami is Osaka's most famous entertainment district. Osaka’s major attractions are the impressive, beautifully restored, castle and the truly wonderful aquarium. Osaka has some striking modern architecture, a vibrant nightlife scene and tasty local cuisine. To experience the city’s nightlife head to bustling Dōtonbori, a street jammed with restaurants and bars. There are also some beautiful places to visit just outside of the city. Minoo is a suburb of Osaka which offers pleasant woodland, an impressive waterfall, hiking opportunities and a relaxing spa. Osaka combines historical, cultural and artistic attractions with all the delights of a modern Japanese metropolis. Japan's third-largest city offers an exciting atmosphere, with fantastic connections to some of the most historic cities in Japan.
Accommodation:
- Budget for starter: Hotel Granvia Osaka
Day 8
Private Osaka Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems 100% Personalised
Spend the day with one of our hosts to discover the true nature of Osaka - head’s up, it’s got a wild sense of humor and is obsessed with food. Explorer (not tourist) is what we’re aiming for here, and in that spirit, you could explore neighborhoods like the fashionable Shinsaibashi or crazy Dotonbori and maybe you’ll discover hidden gems like the smaller shrines and historic streets. Grab a quick bite to eat and see why Osaka is known as the ‘Nation’s Kitchen’ before continuing your adventure through the neon streets of this enigmatic port city. Within 24 hours after booking you'll receive a short questionnaire about your personality and interests. Based on your responses, you'll be assigned a like-minded host. Your host will communicate with you directly to suggest an itinerary to help you discover what makes the city unique. You'll also agree on a meeting time and place. Your itinerary is flexible, so during the experience, you can always change your mind about what you want to do
Included
Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location) , 3, 4, 6 or 8 hours walking tour, exploring highlights and hidden gems , Private and personalised walking tour with a passionate local
Not included
Tickets to any attractions , Food and drinks , Transportation (primarily a walking experience however public transport may be used) , Gratuities (optional)
Accommodation:
- Budget for starter: Hotel Granvia Osaka
Day 9
Osaka Leisure Day: Immerse Yourself in Vibrant Urban Culture
Enjoy a leisurely day exploring Osaka at your own pace. Stroll through vibrant neighborhoods like Dotonbori, where you can snap photos of iconic landmarks and sample delicious street food. Visit historic sites such as Osaka Castle or Shitennoji Temple for a glimpse into the city's rich heritage. Indulge in shopping at Shinsaibashi or unwind in one of the city's tranquil parks. Whatever your preference, Osaka offers endless opportunities for discovery and relaxation on your free day.
As your leisure day in Osaka draws to an end, take a moment to reflect on the experiences and memories you've created during your time in this vibrant city. Whether you've immersed yourself in its cultural heritage, savored its culinary delights, or simply wandered its bustling streets, Osaka has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on you. As you bid farewell to Osaka and your tour comes to an end, carry these cherished memories with you and treasure them for years to come. Safe travels!
What’s Included
Accommodation
- Shiba Park Hotel
- Hakone Manten-no-hoshi
- THE POCKET HOTEL Kyoto-Shijokarasuma
- Hotel Granvia Osaka
Meals
- Lunch (1)
Transport
- Hakone 2 day pass - Train ticket Tokyo - Hakone - Odawara
- Odakyu train from Odakyu Shinjyuku station to Odakyu Odawara station with Hakone pass
- Hakone tozan testudo line from Odawara station to Hakone Yumoto station (or other nearest station to
- Hakone – Odawara
- Hakone tozan testudo line from Hakone Yumoto station (or other nearest station to the accommodation)
- Railway ticket Odawara - Kyoto - Shinkansen Bullet train from JR Odawara station to JR Kyoto station
- Railway ticket Kyoto - Osaka - Shinkansen Bullet train from JR Kyoto station to JR Shin Osaka statio
- Travelers are responsible for making their way to the transportation/meeting points of the tour.
Activities
- Panoramic Tokyo 1 Day Bus Tour with Bay Cruise including lunch (Bus Tour)
- Kyoto Day Tour (Tenryu-ji Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Fushimi Inari Taisha S
- Private Osaka Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems 100% Personalised
Extras
- The services of an English speaking tour guide - Panoramic Tokyo 1 Day Bus Tour with Bay Cruise
- On-board audio guide - Kyoto Day Tour (Bus Tour)
- Local guide - Private Osaka Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems 100% Personalised
Not Included
- Travel insurance is not included
- Airport transfers are not included but can be arranged for an additional fee
About Angie Tran
TEAM LEAD
+1 Local experts
Baboo Certified
Expertise:
Cycling
Kayaking
Rafting
Snorkeling/Diving
Visit markets
Meet local people
Indigenous culture
Wellness retreat
Historic & cultural landmarks
Beach & Sea
Classic Sights
Food & Drink
Outdoors & Nature
My name is Angie, and I'm passionate about traveling around the world. With over 5 years of experience in the travel business, I specialize in designing dream trips that connect people with authentic local experiences, creating unforgettable memories
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