-Experience Tokyo's vibrant culture
-Sushi making class
-Hike the Old Tokaido Road
-Boat cruise on Lake Ashi
-View Mt. Fuji
-Experience Fushimi Inari Shrine
Japan, The Land of the Rising Sun, is definitely not one of those places you can easily understand from a distance. You need to experience it—see it, feel it, and immerse yourself in its culture.
Japan is a country where ancient traditions are still alive and coexist seamlessly with cutting-edge technology. Thus, it is also a world leader in innovation. Though it is home to a few of the most populated metropolitan areas in the world, three-quarters of its land is still made up of forests and mountains.
Your trip also includes unique experiences like sleeping in a traditional ryokan and soaking in an onsen. In addition, you can sing karaoke, learn to roll sushi, and meditate with a Zen Buddhist Monk.
And, of course, let’s not forget that you will even experience Japan’s high-tech bullet train!
Meet at Narita International Airport (NRT) in Tokyo, Japan at 2:00 p.m.
Finish: The trip ends in Osaka, Japan. Plan to depart at any time. Hotel check-out is at 11:00 a.m.
Airfare booking details will be sent after registration. Please wait to book your flight until you receive further instructions.
This trip is relaxing and includes light activities with optional moderate activities. Participants can decide how much time they spend being active. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the experience.
This trip is a good mix of activity and relaxation and includes moderate physical activities. Participants should expect to be active for 3-4 hours most days. An active lifestyle is helpful, though not required to enjoy the trip.
This trip is for those who enjoy being physically challenged and reaping the rewards. It includes moderate to intense physical activities, and participants should expect to be active for 6-8 hours most days. Participants should have an active lifestyle.
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This trip has a 30-day cancellation policy. Give us at least 30 days’ notice, and you can switch your trip for free, or we'll hold your Experience Credits for future use.
Because we purchase non-refundable tickets on your behalf, we have a 60-day cancellation policy, and your $195 deposit is non-refundable. Give us at least 60 days' notice, and you can switch your trip or we'll hold your Experience Credits for future use, only forfeiting your deposit.
Because this trip has non-refundable tickets, we have a 60-day cancellation policy. Give us at least 60 days' notice, and you can switch your trip for free, or we'll hold your Experience Credits for future use.
Kon'nichiwa! After arriving at Narita International Airport (NRT), you’ll travel to our hotel in the heart of Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, on its world-class metro system, which is one of the cleanest, most polite environments you’ll ever experience.
Though Tokyo is crowded, you will find a calming vibe as you take in the commerce of people walking everywhere. This afternoon, you’ll take in the city landscape atop the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.
Later, hands-on sushi-making with a master sushi chef awaits. You’ll be dining on what you create while getting to know your new travel companions.
Begin your first morning in Japan with a visit to the bustling open-air Tsukiji Fish Market, known as a foodie paradise! Don’t hesitate to try some snacks as you walk around. Everything on display is super fresh!
Next, you will navigate Japan’s subway to Akihabara, Tokyo’s center of Japanese otaku and anime culture. Here, you can explore the neighborhood, do some shopping, or perhaps take the opportunity to experience one of Akihabara’s maid cafes.
The day’s cultural highlight is Japanese Buddhism at Sensō-Ji Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo. In its lively Nakamise-dori shopping street, you can purchase souvenirs, traditional objects, and local sweets.
The day begins with a guided tour of Meiji Shrine, one of Tokyo's most popular religious sites. Surrounded by a green oasis of parklands, the complex showcases Japanese culture, arts, and heritage through its historic buildings and tranquil ambiance.
From there, you can walk over to Harajuku, a buzzing shopping district renowned for colorful street art and youth fashion. Quirky vintage clothing stores and cosplay shops along Takeshita Stree make this an unforgettable stop. Afterward, visit the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world, Shibuya Crossing, and find the beloved Hachiko Statue.
The rest of the afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy Tokyo as you please.
Leaving Tokyo behind, you’ll travel by train to Hakone, a picturesque mountainous town known for its views of the iconic volcano Mount Fuji. Upon arriving, you’ll have the opportunity to taste amazake, a traditional non-alcoholic sweet rice wine, at a Japanese tea house.
Hiking among the trees and on the stone-paved roads along the Old Tokaido Way, you’ll follow the path once walked by ancient samurai and merchants. This trail leads to the shores of Lake Ashi, where you can enjoy a sightseeing cruise on the waters of Lake Ashi, taking in the unforgettable views of Mt. Fuji.
Then, a ride on the Hakone Ropeway on a gondola will take you into the Hakone mountains to view the steaming vents of Owakudani, an active volcanic zone. Don’t miss tasting Owakudani’s famous black eggs, boiled in sulfurous waters, to give the egg shells a distinctive color.
Tonight, you’ll stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan, where you’ll sleep on tatami mats for a comfortable night's sleep and end your day relaxing in a Japanese onsen.
After breakfast at the ryokan, you’ll head to the train station. There will be several transfers today, but eventually, we’ll board Japan’s famous bullet train to Kyoto, Japan’s cultural gem.
Kiyomizu Dera Temple, one of the most celebrated temples in Japan, is a highlight of the day. Here, you can walk out on the temple’s wooden stage and take in the outstanding panoramic view of Kyoto rising out of a sea of maple trees.
In the evening, you can explore Kyoto at your own pace. You can visit the district of Gion to experience Japan’s geisha culture or head to Pontocho Alley, renowned for its traditional wooden architecture, cozy restaurants, and lively nightlife.
Arashiyama invites you to explore its temples, shrines, and famed Bamboo Grove! Enjoy the picturesque scenery with a cruise along the serene Hozugawa River.
Strolling through the enchanting bamboo forests of Arashiyama feels like stepping into another world with its soaring stalks of bamboo. Experience the sprawling Zen temple with one of the finest gardens in Kyoto at Tenryu-ji Temple. To add some fun to the day, hike up to Monkey Park for panoramic views.
Board a train to visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, nestled in wooded hills, and wander the magical, seemingly unending path of over 5000 vibrant orange torii gates that wind through the hills.
Join your Trip Leader this evening to experience one of Japan’s favorite pastimes – karaoke!
Your day starts at Daisen-In Temple with a calming guided meditation session led by a Zen Buddhist monk. Afterward, you’ll have time to explore the temple before joining temple volunteers for a tea ceremony.
The Golden Pavilion at the Kinkakuji Zen Buddhist Temple is a sight to behold. Its shimmering golden reflection on the water will mesmerize you.
Enjoy an afternoon of free time to explore Kyoto as you please. The day concludes with an included group dinner in one of Kyoto’s popular nighttime districts.
Packing only a day bag, you’ll board a train to Nara, the former capital of Japan. Known for its historical landmarks, the city is home to significant temples and artwork dating back to the 8th century.
The Todaiji Temple complex, featuring Japan’s largest bronze statue of Buddha at an impressive 15 meters tall, is a must-see. Roam the grounds of Nara Park, home to hundreds of freely roaming deer, wooden pagodas, and cherry trees.
Return to the train station and travel to Osaka, one of the most vibrant cities in Japan. Here, centuries-old Buddhist temples stand next to modern buildings. Enjoy your farewell dinner with your newfound friends and share your Japanese experience.
Enjoy your final morning in Osaka before packing up and checking out of the hotel.
It’s time to say goodbye to your new friends and make plans to meet up for more adventures in the future. You are free to depart at any time of the day. Be sure to get instructions from your Trip Leader on how to take local transportation to the airport.
For those extending their stay in Osaka or other cities in Japan. Osaka offers plenty to explore, and your Trip Leader can give you suggestions.
Want to learn more about Japan? Visit our Japan Travel FAQs.
Stay in touch with the Under30Experiences Community through our Facebook and WhatsApp Groups, and look out for a meetup in a city near you!
Travelers are responsible for international airfare to and from Japan.
Transportation and optional activities are not included.
"Fantastic itineraries, amazing group leaders, and authentic experiences! Highly recommend." -Amy F.
"This was my first time traveling with a company/group and I loved it! The U30X team was so helpful before the trip with all communications. We had an amazing tour guide on our trip! I will forever be grateful for the new friendships and memories U30X has given me!" -Jade M.
"Have been on multiple trips with under30experiences and every time has been such an incredible experience. Can’t recommend enough!" -Callie M.
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