Curator’s statement
Combining a visit to Japan and Thailand in the same vacation offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, culinary delights, and stunning landscapes. By combining both countries into one vacation, you can maximize your time and minimize travel logistics, allowing for a seamless and stress-free travel experience.
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Where to stay
Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo
Arrive in Tokyo. Your private driver will meet you at the airport. Check into your hotel in the Ginza District.
Day 2: Discovering Tokyo
With your private guide, spend the day discovering Tokyo with tours using Japan’s incredible public transportation system. Visit Tsukiji fish market, Asakusa District, one of Tokyo's oldest and best-preserved districts. Stop at the Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, marked by its huge lantern and Akihabara, an area famous for its shops and the world-famous Shibuya Crossing.
Day 3: Tokyo on Foot
Enjoy a day on your own exploring Tokyo on foot or local trains.
Day 4: Next Stop Hakone
Send your luggage off to your next stop, Hakone as you take a highspeed bullet train to Hakone, a nature and hot spring destination with views of Mount Fuji, a short distance from Tokyo. Stay in a traditional ryokan (traditional Japanese inn that offers a unique experience of Japanese culture).
Day 5: Cruise on Lake Ashi
Take a cruise on Lake Ashi, enjoying the magnificent views of Mount Fuji in the background. Look out for the reflections of the surrounding mountains on the lake's surface. Visit Owakudani Valley and enjoy a ropeway ride to Owakudani Valley to experience the sulfurous fumes, hot springs and rivers.
Day 6: High Speed Train to Kyoto
Take High speed train to Kyoto, visiting a tea ceremony, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove for a few days before flying to Thailand.
Day 7: Osaka to Bangkok
Fly from Osaka to Bangkok.
Day 8: Culinary Journey by Tuk Tuk
Explore Bangkok on a Culinary Journey by Tuk Tuk through the city, stopping at various local eateries and hidden gems to taste the local culinary cuisine.
Days 9-14: Bangkok to Phuket
Short flight from Bangkok to Phuket. Enjoy your beach-front luxury accommodations. Spend your days relaxing on the beach, visiting a highly ethical elephant sanctuary or taking a high-speed boat ride visiting the bays and private islands that surround Thailand. Relax before your flight home with a Thai massage.
This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to Japan and travel to Thailand. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Visiting the best Beaches in Australia and Fiji.