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Curator’s statement
Japan the mythical. Japan the unique. Japan the ... overwhelming to visit for the first time? Don't worry, Japan newbies, this itinerary is for you! I have curated an itinerary for anybody looking to get their first taste of Japan, ensuring you will have a wonderful time and want to come back again and again and again. All you have to do is book your flights, kick back and let Japan treat you!
The Fora Difference
Book with Nicola to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
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Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
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Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
The Prince Park Tower Tokyo
Prince Park Tower Tokyo offers an elegant and luxurious retreat in the heart of Tokyo.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Welcome amenity.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo
Your trendy retreat in the heart of Tokyo, where contemporary style, city energy and international hospitality converge for a vibrant stay in Shinjuku.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.
Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
Offers luxury accommodations, traditional tea houses, a serene pond garden and a Michelin-starred restaurant in Japan's historic heart.
Fora Perks
- ★
When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
The Westin Miyako Kyoto
The Westin Miyako Kyoto is a luxurious hotel nestled in the heart of Kyoto, Japan. Surrounded by serene gardens and offering breathtaking views of the city and mountains, this elegant retreat combines traditional Japanese charm with modern amenities, providing a tranquil oasis for discerning travelers.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Welcome amenity
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hilton Hiroshima
Experience unmatched comfort and sophistication in the heart of Hiroshima, where luxury meets Japanese hospitality.
Unlock perks by contacting Nicola to book your trip.
Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo
Tokyo is the one true city of blinding lights, towering skyscrapers and 40 million heads, there is a lot to do and one could spend an entire year just exploring certain neighborhoods.
Before any of that though, you will have arrived off a long haul flight and will meet your driver at the airport for a ride to your luxury accommodation, where you will unwind, refresh and then head out for a bite to eat in a city where cuisine never disappoints.
Day 2: Touring Tokyo and Drinking Tea
Morning: Get your Japanese experience off to a well-rounded start with a Local Private Tour of Tokyo. Understanding Tokyo can seem like an impossible wish for foreign travelers. Take the mystery out of your visit on this guided tour with a local.
Afternoon: Tea Ceremony and Kimono Experience. You will make Green tea (Matcha) in an ancient style tea ceremony room wearing a Kimono.
Dinner: Shabu Shabu!
Day 3: Exploring Tokyo Further
Morning: Private Ginza Architecture Walking Tour
The Ginza district of Tokyo is one of the best places to enjoy seeing a blend of both new and historic architecture.
Dinner: Omakase!
Day 4: Art Experience and More of Tokyo
Morning: Japanese Pottery Experience
Don a ‘samue,’ the traditional garb of Japanese craftsmen, as you learn to make a hand-crafted pottery item with the help of your professional instructor.
Afternoon: Attend a Sumo Wrestling Tournament
Day 5: Travel to Hiroshima
After a final visit to Tsukiji market in Tokyo, you will hop on a Shinkansen (bullet train) and travel all the way south to Hiroshima. Once there, you will check-in to your accommodation before heading out to feast on some local Okonomiyaki.
Day 6: Learn About the History
Visit the Peace Park, A-Dome and museum for a deep dive into the historical and tragic events that have become synonymous with this city.
Day 7: Morning in Hiroshima and Transfer to Kyoto
Morning: If there is interest, hop on a quick ferry to Miyajima Island (Shrine Island).
Afternoon: Transfer by Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto, where you will spend the next night of the trip in a traditional Japanese Ryokan.
Day 8: Introduction to Kyoto
Morning: Local Private Tour of Kyoto and visits to the main shrines.
Kyoto is likely to be the most magical and authentically Japanese part of your trip, so enjoy it to the fullest!
Day 9: Bamboo Forests and Alternative Kyoto
Morning: Visit (and get lost in) the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest!
Afternoon: Ikebana flower arrangement class and tea ceremony
Day 10: Day Trip to Nara
Hop on a local train to Nara (Japan’s first permanent capital), visit the shrines, parks, gardens and walk amongst the local, friendly deer that roam the town.
Day 11: Back to Tokyo
Transfer back to Tokyo for a final round in the big city before heading home!
Travel Advisor
Nicola Volpi
Get in touch with Nicola
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This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to Japan.
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