Japan Reimagined: A Four Seasons Itinerary
Few countries combine history and modernity as seamlessly as Japan. A fascinating island nation where ancient Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines and Geisha culture sit harmoniously alongside futuristic cities, hi-tech gadgetry, bullet trains and neon lights. This 9-night itinerary provides a captivating overview, taking in the urban buzz of Tokyo, a sensational ryokan experience amid the mountain beauty of Hakone, the traditional culture of Kyoto and the world-famous street food scene in Osaka.
9 nights private tour from $13,900
Journey highlights
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Discover Tokyo through its distinct neighbourhoods, exploring historic Asakusa, the games, gadgets and anime of Akihabara, the youth culture of Shibuya and vibrant Tsukiji Market, recharging in the tranquillity of the capital’s stunning gardens, shrines and temples.
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Stay in a traditional ryokan inn enjoying authentic Japanese hospitality and décor, a kaiseki dining experience and private onsen bathing, in beautiful Hakone National Park, home of Mount Fuji, hot bubbling springs and the cool clear waters of Lake Ashi.
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Soak up the serenity of Kyoto’s ancient temples and shrines, explore the city’s geisha culture and teahouses, walk through the atmospheric Bamboo Forest and witness the stunning red torii gates of the celebrated Fushimi Inari-Taisha hillside shrine.
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Indulge in Osaka’s many and varied culinary delights including takoyaki (fried octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), with a tour of colorful Dotonbori, a mecca for foodies and the city’s most popular restaurant, entertainment and shopping district.
- Ultimate itinerary:A harmonious blend of authenticity and superlative luxury, our Ultimate Journeys are designed for the discerning traveller, providing unparalleled insider access and exclusive luxury private experiences
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
Itinerary
Day
Tokyo, Japan
On your arrival in Japan, you’ll be met by your guide for a private transfer into Tokyo, one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Your base for the following three nights is the Four Seasons Otemachi, located in the exclusive financial district between the Imperial Palace and the upmarket retail district of Ginza. Full of understated elegance, the hotel occupies the top floors of the Otemachi One Tower, offering glorious views, chic minimalist design, wonderful service, superb spa with indoor pool and a choice of superb dining venues.
After a rejuvenating sleep, your first day is spent with your guide exploring some of the city’s most iconic attractions, beginning with a serene stroll through the scenic gardens, lakes and ponds of the Imperial Palace. You’ll also explore the historic heart of the city, Asakusa. Dating from the Edo period (1603 – 1868), many of the buildings are well-preserved, infusing the district with bygone charm and atmosphere. A highlight is the boutique lined Nakamise-dori Street leading to Sensoji Temple, one of Tokyo’s oldest, most important and popular Buddhist temples.
After a brief stop in Kappabashi, also known as Kitchen Town, lined with stores selling kitchenware and restaurant supplies, you’ll head to Akihabara. This is a must-see for all those interested in anime, manga, cosplay, video games and electronic gadgets. The day ends with a trip to the Team Lab Borderless Exhibition (subject to availability) in Azabudai Hills, an immersive and interactive digital art museum, where the artworks have no boundaries, flowing freely between the different spaces.
The following day is another chance to explore more of Japan’s vibrant capital, accompanied by your guide. The morning starts with a trip to Tokyo’s Tsukiji Outer Market, exploring the shops and stalls and learning about the seafood, vegetables and traditional Japanese produce that go into to creating one of the world’s finest cuisines.
After the bustle of the market, Hamarikyu Gardens provides a welcome retreat in the heart of the city, featuring beautiful landscaping, dotted with ponds and historic teahouses. From here, your next stop is the world-famous Shibuya Crossing. The area is rich in youth culture and has been the birthplace of many fashion and entertainment trends and provides excellent shopping opportunities.
You then trade the lively energy of Shibuya for the serenity of the impressive Mejijingu Shrine, built in honor of Japan’s first modern ruler, Emperor Meji in 1920. Surrounded by forest, it is another welcome oasis in the heart of the city and a chance to discover more of Japan’s religious Shinto traditions. The day ends with a visit to a private Japanese house, where you’ll enjoy a enjoy a traditional cultural experience, learning the art of Shodo, Japanese Calligraphy.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Otemachi (
3 nights
)
Day
Gora, Japan
This morning your guide will pick you up for the 2-hr drive to Hakone National Park, famous for its hot springs and views of iconic Mount Fuji. During the day you’ll take a cable car to Owakudani Valley, an active volcano zone of sulphurous fumes, steam vents and hot springs, followed by a private boat cruise on Lake Ashi. This beautiful crater lake offers glorious views of Mount Fuji and the red torii gate of Hakone Shrine reflected in the water. Also on the itinerary is a visit to the amazing sculptures of the Hakone Open Air Museum.
Towards the end of the day, you will be taken to the luxurious Gora Kadan Ryokan, where you’ll stay in a Japanese Room with Private Onsen Bath. A highlight of any trip to Japan, a ryokan stay will envelope you in the culture’s authentic hospitality, customs and traditions. Expect tatami mats, low furniture, sliding shoji screens and minimalist décor. Your stay includes a private onsen for hot spring bathing and multi-course kaiseki cuisine, showcasing Japan’s exquisite produce.
Accommodation: Gora Kadan (
1 night
)
Day
Kyoto, Japan
Today you will experience the thrill of riding the bullet train to Kyoto. Your guide will arrange for your luggage transfer to the hotel, leaving you free to bring just an overnight bag for the 2-hr journey from Odawara Station to Kyoto, a city of ancient shrines and stunning gardens, rich in cultural heritage. For the following three nights your base will be the Four Seasons Kyoto, located in the scenic temple district of Higashiyama, within a traditional Japanese garden dating back to the 12th century. Seamlessly blending Japanese style with contemporary comforts, this upscale hotel boasts a teahouse, spa and miniature golf course. On arrival at the hotel, you are free to relax and explore at your leisure.
On your first day in Kyoto you will be accompanied by your guide, today is a chance to explore the cultural delights of Kyoto, beginning at the iconic hillside shrine of Fushimi Inari-Taisha. Famous for the thousands of red torii gates that cascade down the slopes of Mount Inari along a 4km trail, the gates form an atmospheric tunnel through the surrounding forest.
You’ll then explore some of Kyoto’s oldest temples. Tofuku-ji Temple is one of Kyoto’s Five Great Zen Temples, founded in 1236, while Sanjusangendo Hall, known for its 1001 statues of Kannons (Goddess of Mercy), dates from 1266. Next stop is Kiyomizu-dera Temple, famed for its impressive views and lovely grounds. Founded on the site of the Otowa Waterfall in 780, this Pure Water Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The day ends with a visit to Gion, the city’s beautifully preserved geisha district, with its historic teahouses, shops, bars and restaurants.
The following day your guide will take you to Arahiyama to see the UNESCO-listed Tenryu-ji Temple and enjoy a memorable walk through the region’s celebrated Bamboo Forest. After a chance to explore Okochi Sanso, the spectacular former mountain retreat of the period film star, Denjiro Okochi, you will stop for a delicious local lunch.
With your energy replenished, you’ll visit Adashino Nembutsuji Temple. This unusual cemetery, built around 1,200 years ago, is renowned for the 8,000 stone images and pagodas which commemorate those who died without kin. The final stop of the day is at the quirky Otagi-Nenbutsuji Temple, populated by 1,200 whimsical statues, all in a state of prayer.
You will arrive back at the hotel around 5pm, to enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto (
3 nights
)
Day
Osaka, Japan
This morning your guide will drive you to Nara, the ancient capital of 8th century Japan, on route to Osaka. You’ll visit Nara Park, home to free-roaming deer and several famous temples, before exploring Kasugataisha Shrine, celebrated for its magnificent interiors. Todaiji Temple is a landmark in Nara. A historically significant temple, it is one of the world’s largest wooden structures. After visiting this beautiful temple, you’ll end your Nara tour in Naramachi, the former merchant district, a wonderfully preserved district of heritage houses and architecture, now enhanced by the addition of modern cafes, traditional craft boutiques and museums.
On arrival in Osaka, Japan’s culinary capital, you’ll check into the Four Seasons Osaka, for the final two nights of your trip. The hotel is in the center of the city’s culinary and entertainment scene and blends Japanese heritage with modern luxury. The 36th floor wellness zone boasts an indoor pool and fitness center, ideal for recharging after a day of sightseeing.
Day 2 in Osaka will start in the morning with a visit to the Umeda Sky Building, for panoramic views across the city from the lofty Floating Garden Observatory. Alternatively, you may prefer to visit Osaka’s interactive Cupnoodles Museum to learn about the history of instant noodles, with the chance to create your own. Be sure to bring your appetite for the tour of Kuromon Ichiba Market, selling everything from seafood to street food and traditional sweets. Then it’s time to discover lively Dotonbori, a pedestrian-only restaurant street at the heart of Osaka’s street food culture lined with colorful shops, bars and tasting opportunities. The final stop is Osaka Castle, surrounded by a moat and eight stories high, it is one of the city’s main attractions.
After checking out of the hotel on your final morning your driver will transfer you to Kansai International Airport for the journey home, during which you can reflect on your enriching Japanese travel experience.
Price Guide: ( based on double occupancy and excludes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 2025 | $17,100 | $4,300 | plan your trip |
| May 2025 | $20,300 | $5,100 | plan your trip |
| June 2025 | $17,100 | $4,300 | plan your trip |
| July 2025 | $13,900 | $3,500 | plan your trip |
| August 2025 | $17,100 | $4,300 | plan your trip |
| September 2025 | $17,100 | $4,300 | plan your trip |
| October 2025 | $17,100 | $4,300 | plan your trip |
| November 2025 | $17,100 | $4,300 | plan your trip |
| December 2025 | $20,300 | $5,100 | plan your trip |
| January 2026 | $13,900 | $3,500 | plan your trip |
| February 2026 | $13,900 | $3,500 | plan your trip |
| March 2026 | $20,300 | $5,100 | plan your trip |
-
April 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$17,100
Deposit from*$4,300
-
May 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$20,300
Deposit from*$5,100
-
June 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$17,100
Deposit from*$4,300
-
July 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$13,900
Deposit from*$3,500
-
August 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$17,100
Deposit from*$4,300
-
September 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$17,100
Deposit from*$4,300
-
October 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$17,100
Deposit from*$4,300
-
November 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$17,100
Deposit from*$4,300
-
December 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$20,300
Deposit from*$5,100
-
January 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$13,900
Deposit from*$3,500
-
February 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$13,900
Deposit from*$3,500
-
March 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$20,300
Deposit from*$5,100
- plan your trip
Japan Reimagined: A Four Seasons Itinerary
Plan your trip
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely personalized to you. Call us on 212 372 7009 to start planning your vacation.
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