The Essence of Japan: Temples, Traditions & Tasty Bites with Mr.TravelElite

duration
7 days · 6 nights
travel date
Apr 16 - 22, 2026
activity level
Light
group size
6 - 11
transportation
Coach bus, public transportation, bullet train
Your TourHero
tourhero
Mr.TravelElite
bio

Hey, my name is Mr.TravelElite, a culture-loving explorer on a mission to turn epic destinations into unforgettable adventures! I’ve teamed up with @tourhero to craft this amazing Japan trip because I truly believe the best way to connect with the world is by diving into new places with awesome people. 🌍

From Tokyo’s electric buzz ⚡ to Kyoto’s timeless charm 🏯, this journey is all about uncovering hidden gems 💎, devouring next-level food 🍜, and creating memories you’ll never forget.

Whether you’re a solo traveller or just craving something new, this adventure was made for you. Let’s explore Japan together! ✈️

Japan > The Essence of Japan: Temples, Traditions & Tasty Bites with Mr.TravelElite

Journey through Japan for a chance to unlock centuries of tradition and innovation in one unforgettable week. From the bustling markets and sacred temples of Tokyo to the tranquil shrines and lantern-lit streets of Kyoto, each day is designed for the curious traveler eager to experience the soul of the country. Sushi-making workshops, bullet train rides, and explorations through vibrant neighborhoods like Osaka’s Dotonbori promise hands-on adventure and cultural immersion at every turn. Secure your spot and let your sense of wonder lead the way!

Itinerary timeline
Day 1 · April 16, 2026 · Tokyo
Arrive at airport in Tokyo
Check-in at Candeo Hotels Ueno Koen (or similar according to availability)
Free night
Day 2 · April 17, 2026 · Tokyo
Breakfast at hotel
Tokyo city tour via public transit: Tsukiji Outer Market, Asakusa Kannon Temple, Nakamise Street
Sushi making experience (includes lunch)
Return to hotel
Free night
Day 3 · April 18, 2026 · Nikko & Tokyo
Breakfast at hotel
Transfer to Nikko
Visit Toshogu Shrine, Lake Chuzenji (photo stop), Kegon Falls
Return to hotel
Free night
Day 4 · April 19, 2026 · Tokyo & Kyoto
Breakfast at hotel and checkout
Self-transfer (with luggage) to Tokyo Station
Shinkansen to Kyoto
Visit Maruyama Park and Nishiki Market
Check-in at Miyako City Kintetsu Kyoto Station (or similar according to availability)
Free night
Day 5 · April 20, 2026 · Kyoto
Breakfast at hotel
Kyoto city tour via public transportation: Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera, Gion
Return to hotel
Free night
Day 6 · April 21, 2026 · Kyoto & Osaka
Breakfast at hotel
Transfer to Osaka via public transportation
Visit Namba Yasaka Shrine (photo stop), Kuromon Ichiba Market, Shinsaibashi, Dotonbori
Check-in at Shin Osaka Esaka Tokyu REI (or similar according to availability)
Free night
Day 7 · April 22, 2026 · Departure
Breakfast at hotel and checkout
Journey ends
Details
Day 1 · April 16, 2026
Tokyo: Where past meets future

-Welcome to Tokyo, an electric city where ancient tradition meets futuristic innovation.

-After making your way from the airport and checking in, the evening is yours to explore at leisure. Whether you choose to wander the neon-lit streets, soak in the city’s energy, or simply rest up, Tokyo’s dynamic spirit sets the stage for a week of discovery. Enjoy everything this city has to offer!

Day 2 · April 17, 2026
Tokyo traditions: From temples to sushi

-Rise and shine with a classic Japanese breakfast before setting out to explore Tokyo’s cultural heart.

-Your first stop is the Tsukiji Outer Market, a bustling hub with roots stretching back to the Edo period. Once home to the world’s largest fish market, Tsukiji remains a lively center for fresh seafood and traditional food stalls, where the legacy of generations of fishmongers lives on.

-Dive into Japanese culinary culture with a hands-on sushi-making experience – a reflection of Japan’s artistry and reverence for fresh ingredients.

-Journey to Asakusa and visit the iconic Senso-ji (Asakusa Kannon Temple), Tokyo’s oldest and most revered temple. Founded in 628, Senso-ji is dedicated to the Bodhisattva Kannon and stands as a symbol of compassion and resilience, having survived fires and wars through centuries.

-Stroll along Nakamise Street, a vibrant avenue lined with family-run shops offering traditional crafts, souvenirs, and a chance to witness artisans at work.

-Return to your hotel and enjoy a free evening to explore Tokyo’s nightlife or relax.

Day 3 · April 18, 2026
Nikko’s sacred heritage: Shrines, lakes, and waterfalls

-After breakfast, set out for a day trip to Nikko, a region renowned for its natural beauty and spiritual sites.

-Your journey begins at Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1617 to enshrine Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. The shrine’s lavish architecture and intricate carvings reflect its historical and cultural significance as a protector of the Kanto region.

-Continue to Lake Chuzenji, a serene mountain lake formed by a volcanic eruption over 20,000 years ago. Its forested shores and panoramic vistas offer a tranquil escape, especially popular for autumn foliage and summer retreats.

-Conclude your Nikko adventure with a photo stop at Kegon Falls, one of Japan’s most celebrated waterfalls. Plunging 97 meters, Kegon Falls has captivated travelers since the Edo period and is renowned for its seasonal beauty, from vibrant autumn leaves to the icy spectacle of winter.

-Return to Tokyo for a free night.

Day 4 · April 19, 2026
Speed off to Kyoto - bullet train style

-Start your morning with breakfast before transferring to Tokyo Station for the iconic Shinkansen (bullet train) ride to Kyoto.

-Upon arrival, immerse yourself in Kyoto’s natural and culinary delights. Stroll through Maruyama Park, the city’s main cherry blossom viewing spot and a beloved gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

-Next, wander the historic Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto’s Kitchen. With a history spanning over 1,000 years, this lively market is a cornerstone of Kyoto’s food culture, offering everything from seasonal produce to artisanal snacks. Meeting the market’s passionate vendors provides a direct connection to the city’s culinary heritage.

-The evening is yours to explore Kyoto’s atmospheric streets and incredible food scene.

Day 5 · April 20, 2026
Kyoto’s timeless treasures

-Today’s exploration unveils Kyoto’s spiritual and cultural icons. Begin at Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that wind up the sacred Mount Inari. Founded in 711, this shrine is dedicated to Inari Okami, the deity of rice and prosperity, and is deeply intertwined with Kyoto’s agricultural history.

-Next, visit Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage temple established in 780. Renowned for its grand wooden stage and panoramic city views, Kiyomizu-dera is a masterpiece of Japanese architecture and spirituality, drawing pilgrims and admirers for centuries.

-Conclude your day in Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district. Originating in the 14th century, Gion blossomed around Yasaka Shrine and became synonymous with geisha culture, traditional arts, and elegant wooden townhouses. Walking these cobbled streets offers a glimpse into Kyoto’s living heritage.

-Enjoy a free evening to soak in the ambiance.

Day 6 · April 21, 2026
Osaka's urban pulse: From street food to shrines

-After breakfast, we’re off to Osaka, Japan’s culinary and commercial powerhouse.

-Begin today’s exploration with a photo stop at Namba Yasaka Shrine, distinguished by its massive lion-head stage-a modern reconstruction symbolizing protection and good fortune, dedicated to the deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto.

-Dive into the sensory delights of Kuromon Ichiba Market, nicknamed Osaka’s Kitchen. This vibrant market has been at the heart of Osaka’s food scene for over 200 years, offering everything from fresh seafood to local delicacies.

-Continue to Shinsaibashi, a historic shopping district famed for its blend of luxury boutiques, traditional stores, and bustling arcades-a testament to Osaka’s long-standing role as a center of commerce and fashion.

-As night falls, experience the electric energy of Dotonbori. Once a theater district dating back to the early 1600s, Dotonbori is now Osaka’s most iconic entertainment and nightlife area, renowned for its dazzling neon lights, extravagant signage, and endless array of restaurants and bars. The district’s motto, kuidaore (eat until you drop), captures the city’s passion for food and fun.

-Enjoy a free night to explore this unforgettable urban playground.

Day 7 · April 22, 2026
Leaving the wonderland that is Japan

-After breakfast, check out and bid farewell to Japan. Reflect on a week filled with timeless temples, vibrant markets, and the unforgettable spirit of discovery that defines this remarkable country. Safe travels!

Tour Price
CAD 3,364
per person
Flexible payment plans available
15 people are interested
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Your fellow explorers
Age range
21+
Travel interest
Sightseeing, history & culture, nature, exploration
Your local guide
HANATOUR JAPAN Co., Ltd., founded in September 2005, has cemented its reputation as a dream maker in the travel industry, striving to provide its customers with experiences filled with joy and wonder. Whether you visit for adventure, cultural immersion, business, or leisure, HANATOUR offers diverse experiences in Japan, ranging from hands-on workshops in craft villages and curated excursions to popular destinations across the country to unique dining experiences and traditional performances. Through all its offerings, the company remains committed to its founding goal: to be a beacon of happiness and excitement for all its clients.
Accommodation
Candeo Hotels Ueno Koen (or similar according to availability)

Candeo Hotels Ueno Koen is a modern, mid-range hotel situated in Tokyo's Taitō district, offering convenient access to major attractions like Ueno Park, Ueno Zoo, and Asakusa. The hotel features 268 rooms equipped with Simmons bedding, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, electric kettles, and private bathrooms with bidets and hairdryers. Guests can enjoy a daily buffet breakfast with both Japanese and Western options for an additional fee. Amenities include a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, dry cleaning services, and a banquet hall. The hotel is within walking distance of Uguisudani and Iriya stations, providing easy access to public transportation. Room type / configuration: Double occupancy.

Miyako City Kintetsu Kyoto Station (or similar according to availability)

Miyako City Kintetsu Kyoto Station is ideally located just a short walk from Kyoto’s main train station, offering guests easy access to the city's top attractions and convenient transportation options. The hotel features comfortable, well-equipped rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a cozy lounge area, making it a perfect retreat for travelers looking to explore Kyoto while enjoying modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. Room type / configuration: Double occupancy.

Shin-Osaka Esaka Tokyu REI Hotel (or similar according to availability)

Shin-Osaka Esaka Tokyu REI Hotel offers a convenient and comfortable stay in the heart of Osaka, with easy access to public transportation, making it a perfect base for exploring the city. Guests can enjoy modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and cozy rooms, all within walking distance of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Room type / configuration: Double occupancy.

Included
  • 3 nights at accommodation in Tokyo

  • 2 nights at accommodation in Kyoto

  • 1 night at accommodation in Osaka

  • Shared occupancy in accommodations

  • All breakfasts at hotels

  • Lunch day 2

  • All activities & tours listed in the itinerary

  • English-speaking guide

  • All transfers & admissions as mentioned

  • SUICA card (JPY 1000 deposit, JPY 2000 credit)

  • Shinkansen Reserved Seat (Tokyo - Kyoto)

  • Preholiday/High Season/New Year Holiday charge

Not included
  • Flights

  • Airport transfers

  • Extra Luggage Transfer fee of JPY 6500/Luggage (Next day service) | JPY 75.000 - 150.000/Group (Same Day Service)

  • All food & drink not mentioned in inclusions

  • Optional add-ons

  • Travel insurance

  • Personal expenses

  • Gratuities (Not mandatory, however usually JPY 1000/guest/day)

FAQ
Cancellation policy

Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.

Refunds for balance payment
If you cancel your trip on or before Feb 10, 2026 at 11:59 PM local time (GMT +9), you will get a refund of the remaining balance. This may or may not include the deposit amount. See deposit refund section above.

If you cancel your trip from Feb 11, 2026 at 12:00 AM local time (GMT +9) onwards, no refunds will be issued.

You can change or cancel your trip in your TourHero account by clicking on Your Trips.

Trip disclaimer
To offer the best group rates, we need a minimum number of travelers. If that number isn't met—or if unexpected events occur (such as force majeure)—TourHero, the trip host, and the tour operator may need to cancel or reschedule.


If changes happen: You'll be notified by Feb 10, 2026 at 11:59 PM local time (GMT +9), and if the trip is canceled or rescheduled beyond your control, you'll get a full refund. We'll always update you at least 7 days in advance if this date changes.


Book smart: We recommend refundable flights and accommodations to protect your plans from any last-minute changes.