Japan Discovery
12 DaysJapan Discovery
Explore Japan on an unforgettable 12-day private journey combining vibrant cities, ancient traditions, poignant history and beautiful island landscapes.
Begin in Tokyo, where neon-lit streets, modern architecture, historic neighbourhoods and outstanding cuisine reveal the many sides of Japan’s capital. Continue to Kamakura to see the impressive Great Buddha before travelling to Kyoto, where traditional temples, serene gardens, tea houses and historic geisha districts offer a glimpse into Japan’s cultural heritage.
In Hiroshima, visit the Peace Memorial Park and reflect on the city’s past and remarkable recovery. End your journey on Miyakojima Island in Okinawa, relaxing on soft sandy beaches and enjoying clear turquoise waters.
With fast and comfortable bullet trains connecting the main destinations, this journey offers a thoughtful balance of culture, history, city life and time by the sea.
Tour Highlights
- Discover Tokyo’s energy, landmarks, neighbourhoods and local food.
- Visit Kamakura’s iconic Great Bronze Buddha.
- Explore Kyoto’s temples, gardens and historic geisha districts.
- Pay your respects at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.
- Travel through Japan by high-speed bullet train.
- Relax on the beaches of Miyakojima in Okinawa.
- Experience the contrast between Japan’s modern cities, ancient traditions and tropical island landscapes.
Highlights
- Full-time service of a licensed English-speaking tour guide for a seamless experience.
- All accommodations provided throughout the tour.
- Daily breakfast buffets to start your day right.
- Comprehensive ground transportation throughout Japan during the entire journey.
- Complimentary airport transfers for your convenience.
- Admission fees, taxes, and gratuities included at all featured destinations.
- Exciting experience on a bullet train to enhance your travel adventure.
- International airfare to and from Japan.
- Travel insurance for coverage during your trip.
- Optional excursions not included in the standard itinerary.
Day by day
Itinerary ideas
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1 Day 1 Arrival in Tokyo
After clearing customs and collecting your luggage, meet your airport guide and transfer to your hotel. Check in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, with an optional stroll through the Imperial Gardens.
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2 Day 2 Exploring Tokyo
Dive into the city’s highlights today. Consider taking a cruise from Hamarikyu Gardens along the Sumida River to the historic Asakusa district, where you can visit the impressive Sensoji Temple. In the evening, enjoy a guided culinary experience in the vibrant district of Ebisu, sampling local Tokyo cuisine.
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3 Day 3 Day Trip to Kamakura
Escape the city for a day and catch the train to Kamakura, once the capital of Japan and home to the Great Bronze Buddha. The journey takes about an hour, allowing you to explore independently and visit its many temples and shrines, including a unique one where locals wash money for good fortune.
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4 Day 4 Journey to Kyoto
Travel by super-fast bullet train to Kyoto, a journey of about two and a half hours. After checking into your hotel, set out to explore iconic sights, including the Golden Pavilion, the Zen gardens of Ryoanji, and the beautiful terrace of Kiyomizudera.
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5 Day 5 Leisure Day in Kyoto
Spend the day at leisure exploring the compact city of Kyoto. Visit Nishiki Market for silk kimonos, beautiful art, and renowned Japanese knives. Don’t forget to sample delicious local delicacies such as matcha sweets or squid. In the evening, wander the geisha district of Gion, on the lookout for these elusive women as they head to their appointments.
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6 Day 6 Day Trip to Hiroshima
Make the most of your rail pass with a day trip to Hiroshima via bullet train (approximately two hours each way). Visit the poignant Peace Park, the somber Atomic Bomb Dome, and the Memorial Museum. Stroll through the historic Shukkei-en Gardens, representing the seasons and enjoy a local specialty for lunch: okonomiyaki-savory pancakes with various fillings.
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7 Day 7 Fly to Miyakojima Island
This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Miyakojima Island via Naha, the main island’s city and airport. After landing, make your way to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing by the pool or on the stunning sandy beach.
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8 Day 8 Leisure on Miyako Island
Enjoy a day at leisure on Miyako Island, known for its breathtaking beaches-some of the best in Japan. Relax on the shore or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. For the adventurous, various water sports are available.
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9 Day 9 More Beach Time
Spend another day at leisure, enjoying Maehama, Sunayama, and Yoshino beaches. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider trying scuba diving at one of the nearby sites to discover the vibrant marine life.
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10 Day 10 Day Excursion to Yaeyama Islands
Change up the pace today with a short domestic flight to the Yaeyama Islands, where you can explore traditional villages and enjoy jungle walks on Ishigaki, Taketomi, and Iriomote Islands.
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11 Day 11 Return to Tokyo
Retrace your steps to the airport for your flight back to Tokyo. Upon arrival, take the airport express into the city for your final night. Treat yourself to a meal at one of our recommended restaurants, enjoying yakitori or monjayaki-a savory flour and vegetable pancake with various toppings.
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12 Day 12 Departure
Take the private car to Narita Airport for your return flight home.
Accommodation options
The itinerary price includes suggested accommodation. However, Private USA Tours are fully customizable, and a specialist can help you choose the best option for your preferences and budget.
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What our clients say about us
Recently returned from a USA trip with Private USA Tours as a solo traveller. Everything was superbly organised, from airport transfers and hotels to each part of the journey. I was very well looked after by friendly, knowledgeable staff and enjoyed amazing scenery, comfortable stays and memorable experiences throughout.
Christina 12 March 2026 I cannot recommend Private USA Tours enough. We enjoyed an amazing trip across the USA, and the team asked all the right questions to make our journey personal and perfect for us. All transfers were timely and comfortable, while our guides were incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. A perfect trip!
Anne Nicholson 16 January 2026 Private USA Tours created the most memorable journey across America. Every detail was thoughtfully planned, making the whole experience seamless and relaxed. Our hotels were exceptional, and we felt genuinely welcomed and well looked after throughout. From dramatic national parks to unforgettable city experiences, every day brought something special.
Jane 15 April 2026 We had an amazing experience with Private USA Tours. They created a wonderful trip for our family through the USA and Canada, making our first visit truly memorable. Everything from transportation and hotels to excursions went exactly as planned. We would highly recommend Private USA Tours for a seamless, personalised vacation.
Pervin 6 May 2026 Private USA Tours created a fantastic USA trip for us. The hotels, guides and service were excellent, with a well-planned itinerary covering unforgettable national parks and vibrant cities.
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