Your First Taste of Japan

The highlights, from Tokyo to Kyoto

A journey to make your own

Designed for a first journey to Japan, this itinerary begins in fascinating Tokyo, where the futuristic and the timeless sit side by side. Explore Shinjuku, Shibuya, Asakusa, Ueno and Yanaka, discovering a vast, ever-changing city of skyscrapers, historic temples, peaceful lanes and lively markets. Then travel to Hakone, a volcanic region known for its lakes, hot springs and spectacular views of Mount Fuji.

For a distinctly Japanese experience, choose a ryokan stay with a kaiseki dinner and an onsen bath. Finish in Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital. Listed temples, golden pavilions, bamboo groves, artisan workshops and cobbled lanes capture the spirit of traditional Japan. A journey through Japan’s highlights in ten days.

A journey to make your own

Your First Taste of Japan

Suggested duration

10 days

From

€2,988 per person

What you’ll love

  • A first journey through Japan: Tokyo → Mount Fuji → Kyoto.
  • Striking contrasts between futuristic districts and traditional lanes.
  • Mount Fuji’s iconic landscapes.
  • The option of a night in a ryokan with onsen.
  • Kyoto’s temples, Zen gardens, crafts, tea houses and historic neighbourhoods.
Your Japan travel specialist.

Meet
Lucie your contact

Your bespoke travel specialist

Itinerary

A suggested journey, tailored entirely to your interests

Days 1 to 3

Tokyo

Tokyo at night, the first stop on a bespoke Japan journey.
A lively traditional lane in Tokyo.

Explore

Experience Tokyo in all its variety. Futuristic neighbourhoods, ancient temples and lively lanes make the capital endlessly surprising. Stay in a comfortable, conveniently located hotel, an ideal base for exploring at your own pace.

Highlights

  • Shinjuku’s skyscrapers and lively lanes.
  • Shibuya’s neon lights and famous crossing.
  • Asakusa and Senso-ji temple, at the heart of traditional Tokyo.
  • Views from Shibuya Sky.
  • Quieter neighbourhoods such as Yanaka and Kagurazaka.
3 nights at this stop

Days 3 to 4

Hakone

Hakone and Mount Fuji on a bespoke Japan itinerary.
A shrine and torii gate in Hakone.

Explore

Hakone is one of Japan’s most beautiful natural regions. Close to Mount Fuji, it offers a peaceful pause among mountains, forests and volcanic landscapes. Spend the night in a ryokan or traditional Japanese accommodation.

Highlights

  • Cruise on Lake Ashi.
  • Viewpoints towards Mount Fuji.
  • A cable car above Owakudani’s volcanic valley.
  • Onsen and thermal baths.
1 night at this stop

Days 5 to 9

Kyoto

A temple and garden in Kyoto.
The red torii gates of Fushimi Inari in Kyoto.

Explore

The former imperial capital, Kyoto is Japan’s cultural heart, with temples, Zen gardens and historic neighbourhoods. Stay in a charming hotel or a restored machiya, ideally located for sightseeing and leisurely wandering.

Highlights

  • Kiyomizu-dera, overlooking the city.
  • Historic Gion.
  • Arashiyama’s bamboo grove.
  • Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion.
  • Higashiyama’s cobbled lanes.
  • Nishiki Market and local food.
4 nights at this stop

Days 10 to 11

Tokyo

A panoramic view of Tokyo.
Tokyo Skytree and koinobori carp streamers.

Explore

Return to Tokyo for a final stop before departure. Settle into a conveniently located hotel and enjoy one last evening at leisure.
Final night at this stop

Does this journey inspire you?

This itinerary is a starting point. We will tailor it entirely to your interests, your pace and the way you like to travel.

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Let our travellers tell you

Your questions answered

Yes. This itinerary is designed especially for a first journey to Japan, with iconic stops and straightforward travel arrangements, so you can explore with complete peace of mind.

Yes. The itinerary keeps things clear and simple, with straightforward connections and conveniently located accommodation. You can focus on enjoying Japan while we take care of the planning.

Yes. The programme balances highlights with free time to wander, explore a neighbourhood or adjust visits to suit your interests, even on a first trip.

Your First Taste of Japan
Suggested duration 10 days
From €2,988 per person

About the price

Your First Taste of Japan

From €2,988 per person

International flights excluded.

Your Japan specialist can tailor every part of this suggested journey to you.

The final price may vary with your travel dates and your choice of stops, activities and accommodation.

What is included

  • 9 nights in 3★+ hotels chosen for their location.
  • Breakfast included.
  • The main journeys between cities.
  • Airport meet and greet on arrival.
  • Unlimited internet access throughout your stay.
  • Your personalised travel guide, with your itinerary, practical advice and our recommended places.
  • Two experiences introducing you to Japanese culture, chosen to suit your interests.

What is not included

  • International flights.
  • Meals other than breakfast.
  • Guided days and additional activities.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Local accommodation taxes.
A Japanese calligraphy workshop in Tokyo.
Your First Taste of Japan

5/5

We felt in safe hands from the start

The Caramage team, and Anne in particular, were wonderfully responsive. Their professionalism, warmth and willingness to listen put us at ease straight away. Everything felt effortless. We are from Canada and have recommended Caramage to two friends, who also loved their trips. We would recommend this agency without hesitation.

The Tremblay family, Canada