Tokyo & Kyoto, Japan | May 25-31, 2027

Day 1 – May 25

Touch down at Haneda International Airport (HND) where your Japanese adventure begins. Your private driver awaits to whisk you through Tokyo’s fascinating streets to your boutique hotel in the heart of the capital. After settling into your room, take time to refresh and explore the neighborhood surrounding your accommodation. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers in the hotel lobby for introductions before heading to a local izakaya for your welcome dinner.

Note: We recommend departing the US on May 24th to ensure arrival before 3pm on May 25th for the welcome dinner. Please book flights to Haneda Airport, which is much closer to central Tokyo.

Overnight: Park Hotel Tokyo or Equivalent

Day 2 – May 26

Today, your expert guide leads you through Tokyo’s fascinating contrasts, beginning at the historic Meiji Shrine, where towering torii gates and ancient forest paths offer sanctuary mere steps from Harajuku’s trendy streets. Witness the organized chaos of Shibuya Crossing, where thousands of pedestrians flood the intersection in perfect synchronized harmony. Explore the traditional neighborhood of Asakusa, home to the magnificent Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, where the scent of incense mingles with street food aromas along Nakamise shopping street. This afternoon, enter the refined world of a private tea ceremony, where a certified tea master guides you through the precise, mindful movements that transform preparing and drinking matcha into a meditative art form. By day’s end, you’ll have glimpsed both the serene spirituality and pulsing energy that define this extraordinary city.

Overnight: Park Hotel Tokyo or Equivalent

Day 3 – May 27

This morning, board the sleek Shinkansen bullet train for one of Japan’s most thrilling travel experiences. Watch as urban landscapes blur past your window at speeds approaching 200 miles per hour on your journey to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital. Upon arrival, your expert local guide leads you first to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, where gold leaf glimmers against the reflection pool in a scene so perfect it seems painted. Next, venture into the otherworldly calm of Arashiyama’s bamboo forest, where towering green stalks create a natural cathedral that filters sunlight into emerald hues. The rustling bamboo creates nature’s own meditation soundtrack as you walk the grove’s peaceful paths. Your day culminates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, where thousands of vermilion torii gates create tunnels up the mountainside. Settle into your Kyoto accommodation this evening after a full day of discovery.

Overnight: The Gate Hotel Kyoto Takasegawa or Equivalent

Day 4 – May 28

This day belongs entirely to you, offering the freedom to explore Kyoto according to your own interests and energy level. Perhaps visit the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple with its famous wooden stage overlooking the city, or wander through the traditional streets of Gion, where you might glimpse a geisha hurrying to an appointment. Explore the serene Philosopher’s Path, or delve into the rich history at Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning gardens and nightingale floors designed to sing when walked upon. For those seeking adventure beyond Kyoto, optional day trips to Nara (home to friendly deer and the massive bronze Buddha at Todai-ji Temple) or Osaka (Japan’s culinary capital with vibrant street food culture) are available. 

Overnight: The Gate Hotel Kyoto Takasegawa or Equivalent