Japan: Tokyo & Beyond

Itinerary

• Day 1: Overnight flight

  Hop on a plane heading west and cross the international date line, because you’ve got a big date with Japan—and all that ramen isn’t going to eat itself.

• Day 2: Arrive in Tokyo

  Say konnichiwa to Tokyo, home to more people, vending machines, and Michelin-starred restaurants than anywhere else. Settle in, meet your fellow travelers, and get ready to explore.

  Today's highlights:

  • Land at the airport and meet an EF representative.
  • Transfer to your accommodations and check in.
  • Meet your Tour Director and get deets on tomorrow’s schedule.
• Day 3: Explore Tokyo + Welcome Dinner

  Only in Tokyo can you visit the busiest intersection in the world, an ancient Shinto shrine, and the palace of real-life royalty in a matter of minutes. And today, you’re doing exactly that.

  Today's highlights:

  • Read your fortune and see your future at Sensoji Temple.
  • Soak up the sights, sounds, and styles of Shibuya and Harajuku.
  • Enjoy a Welcome Dinner with your group at an authentic local spot.
• Day 4: Free day in Tokyo + optional Hakone day trip

  Explore the many bustling neighborhoods of Tokyo or escape the city for a chill day in Hakone feat. Mt. Fuji views. Either way, don’t forget to make time for sushi.

  Hakone day trip (extra cost)

  Ride in a cable car to catch views of Mt. Fuji, then cruise on Lake Ashi to its iconic torii gate. 
  
  Why wait? Save money by booking this optional excursion before your trip departs.

• Day 5: Free day in Tokyo + optional sushi-making experience

  Today, you’re free to explore Tokyo on your own. And if that means eating nothing but noodles while searching for Pokémon souvenirs—so be it.

  Free time suggestions

  Tokyo Skytree: Head way, way, waaay up to the observation deck of the world’s tallest tower. At 2,080 feet, it’s safe to say this is the best view in Tokyo.

  Ghibli Museum: Showcasing the work of one of the GOAT animation studios, there’s no other place that’ll connect you with Japanese pop culture like this.

  Tokyo Sushi Experience (extra cost)

  Bop around the stalls of Tsukjii Market before a private sushi-making (and eating) class. 
  
  This excursion is pre-book only: If your trip is less than 30 days away, please call 800-766-2645 to purchase.

• Day 6: Travel to Kyoto

  If you’re looking for traditional Japan, you’ll find it in Kyoto. See zen temples, geishas, and old-world townscapes as you seemingly time travel from street to street.

  Today's highlights:

  • Snap photos under the thousands of bright-orange gates of the Fushimi Inari shrine.
  • Look out at all of Kyoto from the 1,200+ year-old, hilltop Kiyomizu Temple.
  • Visit Kinkakuji, a Zen Buddhist temple covered in actual gold leaf.
• Day 7: Free Day in Kyoto

  Keep getting to know Kyoto on your own. Between the quaint streets, high-end shops, and bustling markets, there’s a ton to see and do. And eat. And drink.

  Free time suggestions

  Nishiki market: Stock up on souvenirs and try all the best bites. This narrow, five-block shopping street has more than 100 shops and restaurants for you to explore.

  Kyoto clubbin’: One of the best nightlife cities we’ve found, Kyoto is loaded with bars and clubs, and the party doesn’t stop until the early morning. nightlife for all of Japan. Make sure you’re well rested, because the party doesn’t stop till the early morning.

• Day 8: Travel to Osaka + Farewell Dinner

  It’s your last full day in Japan—make it count. Fill up on sushi, hit up a few vending machines, grab those last souvenirs, and try (we dare you) to keep up with the dynamic pace of Osaka.

  Today's highlights:

  • Visit Osaka Castle to see the ancient side of Japan’s second most populous city.
  • Get lost in the labyrinth of neon-lined streets and alleyways.
  • Share some laughs (and maybe shed a few tears) at an included Farewell Dinner with your group.

  Free time suggestions

  Dontonbori: This place is teeming with bars, restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Think neon signs, bright lights, and octo-pops (exactly what it sounds like).

• Day 9: Fly home

  Sayōnara, tomodachi!

  Translation: goodbye, friends! Your next destination awaits—home. But this isn’t goodbye. It’s “See you later.” The only question is, where?

  –OR–

  EXTEND YOUR TRIP 2 WAYS

  1. Double the fun
  A lot of our trips line up back to back! Give us a call—we can help you add another and save big while you're at it.

  2. Go ahead or stay behind
  Extending your trip is easy! During checkout, you'll have the option to fly to (or from) the gateway of your choice for an additional fee. We'll adjust your flights accordingly, but you'll be responsible to take care of your transportation, hotels, and other logistics outside of tour.

  Note: Depending on your desired gateways, additional fees may apply.