Nakamise Shopping Street, a historic thoroughfare leading to Tokyo’s Sensoji Temple, is a vibrant blend of tradition and charm. Lined with over 80 shops, it offers iconic Japanese souvenirs—from handcrafted snacks and folding fans to kimono accessories—all steeped in Edo-era flair. Wander its bustling lanes, savor fresh taiyaki or matcha treats, and soak up the lively atmosphere that merges ancient culture with modern sightseeing joy. A must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of traditional Japan.

A Sumida River Cruise in Tokyo offers travelers a unique perspective of the city, blending modern skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and serene waterside scenery. Gliding along the gently flowing river, visitors can admire iconic sights such as the Tokyo Skytree, Asakusa district, and traditional bridges, all from the comfort of a scenic boat.

The cruise provides a relaxing escape from the bustling city streets, making it ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers looking to enjoy Tokyo at a slower pace. Onboard, you can enjoy commentary about the city’s history and landmarks, gaining insights into Tokyo’s cultural and architectural highlights.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, a Sumida River Cruise offers memorable photo opportunities, peaceful riverside views, and a chance to experience Tokyo from a fresh angle. It’s a perfect addition to any itinerary for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a leisurely and scenic journey through the heart of Japan’s vibrant capital.

Your guide will meet you at your accommodation on Naoshima and accompany you on a full day tour to explore the contemporary art and natural beauty of neighboring Teshima Island using local ferries and transport.

Morning: Ferry to Teshima & Iconic Art

Our first stop is the breathtaking Teshima Art Museum, where architecture and nature merge into a unique sensory experience. Afterwards, we will visit the thought-provoking Les Archives du Cœur (The Museum of Heart's Voice). 

You will explore the museum on your own.

Enjoy a quick lunch at a local café near the art sites (own expense).

Afternoon: Coastal Exploration & Return to Naoshima with guide assistance.

The guide will lead you to Uno Port and then walk you to the hotel.

Gather at Ekoin Temple first—we’ll split into English-speaking and Japanese-speaking groups
 for the tour.

The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, with a monk leading each group to Okunoin. Okunoin takes on a totally different vibe at night compared to the daytime; along the way, our guide will share stories about famous tombs and historical sites.

For the return trip, you can either walk back the same route on your own.

Please note this is a shared tour with other participants. We hope you enjoy this peaceful evening exploration!

Warm reminder: You’ll be walking approximately 3 to 4 kilometers on this day, so make sure
to wear a pair of comfortable shoes.

Head to Kongōbu-ji Temple, the head temple of the Kōyasan Shingon sect of Buddhism. It is also part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range" – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple boasts exquisite sliding screen doors (shoji) and a large rock garden called Banryūtei, which is the largest of its kind in Japan.

Head to Koyasan Reihōkan Museum. Founded in 1921, this museum was established to make Koyasan’s cultural heritage accessible to the public, featuring exhibition facilities similar to a museum. It is responsible for preserving various religious artifacts of Koyasan, including paintings, historical relics, mandalas, and Buddha statues, allowing you to gain in-depth insight into the inheritance and accumulation of Koyasan’s thousand-year-old Buddhist culture.

Visit Danjo Garan, a sacred temple complex founded by Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi), the founder of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. The Great Pagoda within the complex is the tallest structure in Koyasan and a symbol of the mountain. It houses the main statue of Dainichi Nyorai (Vairocana Buddha) of the Womb Realm, presenting the sacred realm of the esoteric mandala.

Nara Park is one of Japan’s most enchanting destinations, offering a rare blend of nature, history, and cultural immersion in the heart of Nara City. As one of the country’s oldest public parks, it is best known for its friendly, free-roaming deer—considered sacred messengers of the gods in Shinto tradition. Visitors can stroll through expansive lawns, tranquil ponds, and shaded walking paths while interacting with the gentle deer that freely approach guests for special “deer crackers.” This simple moment of connection often becomes one of the most memorable highlights of any Japan trip.

Beyond the deer, Nara Park is home to several of Japan’s most iconic heritage sites. The magnificent Todai-ji Temple stands at the center, housing the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world. Walking into the massive wooden hall is an awe-inspiring experience, blending spiritual calm with architectural grandeur. Nearby, the lantern-lined paths of Kasuga Taisha Shrine offer a different atmosphere—quiet, mystical, and deeply tied to ancient Japanese rituals. Traditional gardens such as Isuien and Yoshikien invite visitors to slow down and appreciate the elegance of seasonal landscapes, from cherry blossoms in spring to fiery maples in autumn.

A visit to Nara Park is more than a sightseeing stop—it is a full sensory experience. Travelers can enjoy easy scenic walks, savor local specialties like kakinoha sushi, or simply relax under centuries-old trees while watching deer wander by. Whether you’re a family, cultural enthusiast, or nature lover, Nara Park provides a peaceful escape from nearby Osaka and Kyoto and a chance to enjoy Japan at a gentler, more intimate pace. With its mix of wildlife encounters and world-class heritage sites, Nara Park remains one of the most rewarding day trips in the Kansai region.

 In the morning, our guide will meet you at the hotel and accompany you on a 20-minute local
 train ride to Arashiyama Area.

You’ll visit a remote Buddhist temple (Kano nenbutsu - ji Temple) that holds one of the city’s most impressive sights: 1,200 moss-covered stone statues arranged throughout thetemple grounds. 

From here, you’ll walk through the backroads – almost all downhill – of the Arashiyama district. Along the way, you’ll visit a number of memorable sites. You can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at Adashi no Nenbutsuji Temple; learn the story of an impossible romance that inspired Gio-ji Temple’s quaint moss garden; marvel at the rustic simplicity of Rakushisha, a preserved 17th-century thatched roof house once home to a great haiku poet.

Along the way, you can browse shops selling local folk crafts and charming traditional goods. Before the final approach to central Arashiyama, you’ll stop for a matcha tea break in the garden at Okochi Sanso Villa, and then walk through the famous Arashiyama bamboo forest. You’ll finish on the main street of central Arashiyama.

Visit Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk along wooden terraces with panoramic city views, explore temples and pagodas, and enjoy cherry blossoms or autumn leaves. Ideal for sightseeing, photography, and cultural immersion. 

The Kyoto Samurai & Ninja Museum offers an immersive journey into Japan’s legendary warrior culture, right in the heart of Kyoto. Designed as an interactive museum rather than a traditional exhibition space, it allows visitors of all ages to step into the world of samurai and ninja through hands-on experiences and storytelling.

Inside the museum, you’ll explore authentic samurai armor, swords, and historical artifacts that trace the evolution of Japan’s warrior class. Expert guides share captivating stories about samurai philosophy, Bushido ethics, traditional weaponry, and the role these warriors played throughout Japanese history.

The highlight for many visitors is the interactive activities. You can try on real samurai armor, learn basic sword techniques using a practice katana, and even participate in a ninja star–throwing experience. These hands-on sessions make the museum especially appealing for families and anyone looking for a fun, memorable cultural experience.

Whether you're fascinated by Japanese history, martial arts, or simply looking for a unique Kyoto activity, the Kyoto Samurai & Ninja Museum offers an accessible and entertaining introduction to two of Japan’s most iconic traditions.

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for thousands of vermilion torii gates. Hike scenic trails up Mount Inari, explore shrine buildings, and enjoy panoramic city views. Perfect for photography, spiritual experiences, and cultural sightseeing. Fun fact: The fox statues here are believed to be messengers of the Shinto god of rice.

Located in Kyoto’s historic Fushimi district, the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum offers a fascinating journey into Japan’s traditional sake-brewing culture. Established by Gekkeikan, one of Japan’s oldest and most renowned sake producers with over 380 years of history, the museum is housed in a beautifully preserved wooden brewery from the Meiji era.

Inside, visitors can explore exhibits showcasing vintage brewing tools, historical documents, and detailed displays explaining the craftsmanship behind sake production—from rice polishing to fermentation techniques unique to the Fushimi region. The tour provides a rare glimpse into how sake has evolved over the centuries while still preserving its deep cultural roots.

A highlight of the visit is the tasting experience, where you can sample several varieties of Gekkeikan sake, including limited-edition brews available only on-site. The serene atmosphere, combined with the aroma of cedar barrels and the charm of traditional architecture, makes this museum a must-visit for culture lovers and anyone curious about Japanese craftsmanship.

Perfect for history enthusiasts, foodies, and sake beginners alike, the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum offers an authentic and educational experience that enriches any Kyoto itinerary.

Experience an authentic tea ceremony, which is at the heart of Japanese culture and is a centuries old ritual, in Kyoto. You’ll be provided with a tea bowl, tea scoops and whisks, and instruction on how to make matcha. You’ll also try matcha and sweets, and you are encouraged to ask questions. Photos and short videos are permitted. Usually guests sit on the floor, but chairs and tables are also available if preferred.

Embark on a journey from Kyoto to the iconic Mount Fuji, combining Shinkansen speed and private transfer convenience.

Morning: Kyoto to Mishima Station by Shinkansen, Then Private Transfer to Mt. Fuji Area

Self-Guided Departure from Kyoto: Make your way to Kyoto Station and board the Shinkansen to Mishima Station.

Private Transfer from Mishima Station: A dedicated guide and private vehicle will meet you at Mishima Station, then drive you towards the Mt. Fuji area. 

Mid-Morning: Explore Mount Fuji 5th Station (or Lake Yamanaka)

Mount Fuji 5th Station (Weather Permitting) Ascend to the 5th Station, standing at 2,400 meters. Here, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking sight of Mount Fuji’s majestic cone and the sprawling landscapes around it. Take time to walk around, take photos, and soak in the grandeur of this natural wonder.

Lake Yamanaka (Alternative if 5th Station is Unreachable): If the 5th Station is inaccessible, head to Lake Yamanaka. On a clear day, this lake is an excellent spot to view Mount Fuji. You might even catch a glimpse of swans gliding on the water, adding a touch of elegance to the scenic view.

Afternoon: Lake Ashi Cruise and Komagatake Ropeway

Lake Ashi Cruise: Board a cruise on Lake Ashi and be mesmerized by the beautiful scenery. As you sail, you’ll see the vermilion torii gates nestled in the hills and the tranquil shallow waters, creating a picturesque scene. 

Komagatake Ropeway: Take the Komagatake Ropeway to the summit of Mount Komagatake. From here, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas, including a stunning view of Mount Fuji that will leave you in awe.

Evening: Return to Tokyo by Private Car 

After a full day of exploring, relax in your private car as you head back to Tokyo, reflecting on the amazing sights you’ve experienced.

 Take a train to Shin-Kawasaki Station and visit an authentic sumo stable, where you’ll witness real sumo wrestlers in training. A local guide will share the rich history and traditions of sumo, along with tips for enjoying matches. If you’d like, you can even step into the ring for a friendly match with a rikishi - women and children are welcome to participate! Afterward, enjoy a hearty bowl of chanko-nabe, the signature dish that fuels sumo wrestlers.