Anime Flavor
Tokyo & Kyoto Autumn Tour
8
Days
7
Nights
Tour Period
2024
Sep 14 - Sep 21
Oct 12 - Oct 19
Included
Accommodations
6 nights Western style and 1 night Japanese style accommodation
Meals
Breakfast everyday
4 lunches and 2 dinners
Admission Fees & Activities
All entry fees to sites, activities listed in the itinerary
Others
Meet and greet upon arrival at Tokyo Narita Airport
Airport transfers on arrival and departure
Private coach transfers between destinations in Japan
Comprehensive escorted with AJT professional English speaking tour guide
Gratuities
Not Included
Airfares
International Airfares
Meals
Meals that are not included in the itinerary
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance
Others
Personal expenses such as telephone and laundry bills
Otaku dreams in Tokyo & Kyoto: Anime spots & culture mix.
We will go to some of the popular anime spots while learning about Japan’s culture.
Anime Flavor Autumn Tour is the best thing to fulfill your Otaku needs. We will go to some of the popular anime spots while learning about Japan’s culture. See Tokyo not only as a tourist, but as an Otaku on a mission. Have fun exploring the different shops in Akihabara, one of the main centers for Otaku culture. Not only that we will visit the famed Ghibli Museum as well as other anime related areas.
Itinerary
The Anime Flavor: Tokyo & Kyoto Autumn Tour is an 8-day, 7-night group tour designed for anime enthusiasts.
Arrive in Tokyo
Welcome to Tokyo! You will be met at the arrival gate by a representative holding a name sign.
NOTE: If you wish to stay in the center of Tokyo for the first night instead of Hotel Mystays Premier Narita, we can arrange for you to stay at Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro (or similar class). In this case, airport transfer is not included. We will provide you directions to get to your hotel in advance, or we can arrange shared shuttle service for you at US$65.00 per person per way.
NOTE: If you will be flying into Haneda Airport (HND) instead of Narita International Airport (NRT), we can arrange for you to stay in the center of Tokyo (Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro or similar class) instead of Hotel Mystays Premier Narita. In this case, meet-and- greet and airport transfer are not included. We will provide with full instructions to get to the hotel in advance, or we can arrange shared shuttle service for you at US$60.00 per person per way.
Tokyo
Ghibli Museum / Nakano Broadway / Akihabara / Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo
Today we will be going to the Ghibli Museum in Tokyo. The Ghibli Museum has various exhibitions featuring the works by Studio Ghibli. This includes the work desk of Hayao Miyazaki, some of his sketches, and original movie that cannot be seen outside of the museum.
Then we will shop to our heart’s content at Nakano Broadway, which has many old school anime and idol shops for fans. The shops span over three floors as the anime related ones are scattered among the levels. No anime tour is complete without a visit to Akihabara.
Here you will have the chance to go shopping for your Otaku needs. Do not forget to see UDX Building, Kanda Myojin Shrine, and oh so many cafes. Yuo will then Tokyo's largest Pokémon Centers in Ikebukuro. This is a merchandise heaven for all Pokémon fans.
Tokyo
Tsukiji Outer Market / Drive by Imperial Palace / Sushi Making Experience / Asakusa Sensoji Temple / Tokyo Skytree
Today, you will visit Tsukiji Outer Market – a bustling outdoor street market known for its fresh and delicious seafood, produce, and kitchenware. From there, we drive by the Imperial Palace, which offers splendid views of the meticulously maintained front lawn and garden areas, the moat, and the old stone walls.
Next, enjoy a fun and simple Sushi-Making Experience, where you can enjoy creating your own sushi, and eating it afterwards! Then, we visit Tokyo’s oldest temple complex – Asakusa Sensoji Temple, featuring the Kaminarimon Gate, in which hangs an enormous red lantern. Leading up to the temple is Nakamise Street, which is lined with shops selling all manner of Japanese souvenirs.
At the end of the day, we ascend Tokyo Skytree to the observation deck, which offers a panoramic 360-degree view of the Tokyo cityscape.
Note: For Sushi Making Experience, if you are vegetarian, on gluten-free diets, have seafood allergy, or don't eat raw fish, please contact us for other ingredient options.
Mt Fuji
We will depart from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji on our private coach. Along the way, enjoy the changing scenery, from thick vegetation to lowlands to rolling clouds. Stop at Mt. Fuji 5th station (depending on weather) to admire the world famous peak.
Hakone, Shinkansen Bullet Train Ride
Hakone Ropeway / Owakudani
Next, we will travel to Hakone, which is among Japan's most popular hot- spring resorts, and view the forested slopes of Hakone National Park. We will take a 20 minute ropeway ride from Togendai to Owakundani. Most of the area around Owakundani is considered an active volcanic zone since its creation from the eruption of Mount Hakone some 3,000 years ago.
Now, you can experience hot springs and hot rivers there, where sulfurous fumes still linger. Owakundani also has splendid views of Mount Fuji in good weather.
Shinkansen Bullet Train Ride
Next, take a Shinkansen bullet train ride for experience, which can reach speeds of up to 300 km/hr. We will stay at the Onsen Hotel at Hamanako Kanzaiji Onsen, where you can soak in the therapeutic waters of a spa bath and feast on a traditional Japanese Kaiseki banquet dinner.
Koka
Miho Museum
After breakfast at the hotel, our group will visit the Miho Museum, a stunning architecture that accentuates the surrounding nature while exhibiting a variety of items from different ancient civilizations. It was designed by the renowned architect, I. M. Pei, and is named after Koyama Mihoko, one of the richest women in Japan and the founder of the museum. Moreover, the museum has been listed as one of the "1000 Places To See Before You Die".
Kyoto
Kiyomizu Temple
We will then continue to Kyoto, a historical city that was spared from air raids and saved from the atomic bomb during World War II for its cultural and historical value. We will visit the famous Kiyomizu Temple, best known for its wooden stage that juts out from its main hall, 13 meters above the hillside below. The stage affords visitors a nice view of the numerous cherry and maple trees below that erupt in a sea of color in spring and fall, as well as of the city of Kyoto in the distance. We will stay two nights in Kyoto.
Kyoto
Nijo Castle
In the morning, we explore Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site from Japan’s feudal era, and former residence of the Tokugawa shogun. While you walk around the stately Edo-period buildings, listen for the chirping of the “nightingale” floors.
Golden Pavilion
The tour continues to Kinkakuji Temple (also called the Golden Pavilion), which is one of Kyoto’s most coveted sights. Shimmering walls wrapped in gold leaf are reflected in the Mirror Pond below; look carefully to see the dainty phoenix sitting on the roof.
Arashiyama / Tenryuji Temple / Zen Garden
Next, we travel to the Arashiyama district to see Tenryuji Temple. Tenryuji is most famous for its Zen Garden, which has been carefully maintained for centuries using the technique of “borrowed scenery” to create a breathtaking landscape.
Sagano Bamboo Forest / Green Tea Ceremony with Maiko Interaction
We continue from there to the Sagano Bamboo Forest, where towering stalks of bamboo packed close together create an otherworldly feeling of mystery and awe as you walk the path through the center. Then experience a traditional Green Tea Ceremony – an elegant ritual of hospitality once accorded only to the social elite. The experience is made even more special as it is hosted by an elegant Maiko (an apprentice Geisha.
Gion Geisha District
We end our day in the Gion Geisha District, a heritage district where stone-paved streets are lined with exclusive ochaya (teahouses). While admiring the old-fashioned buildings, the fortunate visitor may spot Geisha or Maiko (Geisha apprentices) walking between these establishments.
Kyoto
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Today, we travel to Fushimi Inari Shrine – the chief shrine of the thousands throughout the country dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of economic prosperity, rice, and foxes. What sets this shrine apart is the sight of thousands of bright vermillion “torii” gates that form long pathways through the forest covering sacred Mount Inari.
Nara
Todaiji Temple / Deer Park
Next, we will travel to the ancient city of Nara, where we will visit one of Japan’s most famous temples and an icon of the city: Todaiji Temple, which is home to the Great Buddha of Nara – a massive, seated image of Rushana-butsu, known as the “Cosmic Buddha”. Outside the temple, spend some time with the friendly wild deer of Nara Deer Park. These adorable creatures are largely accustomed to interacting with people, and some have even learned to bow when asking for the special deer crackers, which can be bought around the park.
Osaka
Dotonbori / Shinsaibashi
We go from there to Osaka to visit the colorful, neon-lit entertainment district of Dotonbori. This area is popularly known for being the heart of Osaka’s food culture. Osaka is known as the city of “Kuidaore” or “to eat until you drop”, and you will find Dotonbori to be filled with numerous eateries underneath large, eye-catching billboards, including the famed Glico “Running Man”. Lastly, make your way to Shinsaibashi, the largest shopping district in Osaka. Originally established during the Edo period, this historic district is now home to various modern retailers including jewelers, trendy boutiques, western clothing and footwear stores, even traditional kimono tailors.
NOTE: If you wish to stay in the center of Osaka for the last night instead of Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, we can arrange for you to stay at Hotel Elsereine Osaka (or similar class). In this case, airport transfer is not included, but we will provide full instructions for you to get to the airport in advance.
NOTE 6: If you will be flying out from Itami Airport (ITM) instead of Kansai International Airport (KIX), we can arrange for you to stay at Hotel Elsereine Osaka (or similar class) instead of Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport. In this case, airport transfer is not included but we will provide full instructions for you to get to the airport in advance.
Tour Ends
After breakfast, our tour officially ends. Checkout time is 11 am and Osaka Kansai Airport can be reached in a three minute walk.
Accommodations
31 Oyama, Narita, Chiba 286-0131, Japan
Hotel Mystays Premier Narita or similar class
The Hotel Mystays Premier Narita is conveniently located just a 5-minute drive from Narita International Airport. It offers an indoor pool, tennis courts, and a Jacuzzi. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a sauna, and 24-hour room service. The hotel provides a blend of comfort and convenience for travelers.
NOTE: If you wish to stay in the center of Tokyo for the first night instead of Hotel Mystays Premier Narita, we can arrange for you to stay at Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro (or similar class). In this case, airport transfer is not included. We will provide you directions to get to your hotel in advance, or we can arrange shared shuttle service for you at US$65.00 per person per way.
1-6-1 Nishiikebukuro, Toshima, Tokyo 171-8505, Japan
Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro or similar class
Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro is centrally located in Ikebukuro, offering guests convenient access to Tokyo's vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment. This hotel features modern rooms, diverse dining options, and comprehensive amenities including fitness facilities and meeting rooms. Its proximity to major transport links makes it an ideal base for exploring Tokyo's key attractions, combining comfort and convenience for travelers.
4396-1 Yutocho Yamazaki, Nishi-Ku, Hamamatsu, 431-0101, Japan
Grand Mercure Lake Hamana Resort and Spa or similar class
Grand Mercure Lake Hamana Resort & Spa, located in Hamamatsu, Japan, offers a serene escape by the picturesque Hamana Lake. This upscale hotel provides an all-inclusive stay experience, complete with soothing scents, sounds, and flavors. Guests can enjoy luxurious meals overlooking the lake and unwind in the hot springs after a day of sightseeing. The resort features various room options, including ocean/sea view and lake view rooms. Immerse yourself in tranquility at this newly opened retreat.
Gojo-sagaru, Horikawa-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto 600-8519
Kyoto Tokyu Hotel or similar class
The Kyoto Tokyu Hotel is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Kyoto, Japan. With elegant rooms, exquisite dining options, and panoramic city views, it’s an ideal base for exploring Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a business traveler or a tourist, this hotel offers a blend of comfort and sophistication.
1 Senshu-kuko Kita, Izumisano-shi, Osaka 549-0001
Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport or similar class
The Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport is the only full-service hotel directly connected to Kansai International Airport. With comfortable rooms, free WiFi, and a variety of dining options, it offers convenience for travelers. Whether departing or arriving, guests can enjoy a seamless experience on Kansai Airport Island.
NOTE: If you wish to stay in the center of Osaka for the last night instead of Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, we can arrange for you to stay at Hotel Elsereine Osaka (or similar class). In this case, airport transfer is not included, but we will provide full instructions for you to get to the airport in advance.
Notes
Please review the notes below for important details about your trip. If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to contact us. These notes are designed to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
Price
All prices are per person, based on twin (double on request) or triple occupancy.
Deposit
We require a NON-Refundable US$500 deposit per person to hold the space at the time of booking and the final payment is due 2 months prior to departure.
Transport
Travel by private coach between destinations, hassle free baggage handling.
Arrival Departure Airports
For arrivals at Narita Airport (NRT), this tour starts in Tokyo and ends in Sapporo, with departures at New Chitose Airport (CTS).
If you will be flying into Haneda Airport (HND) instead of Narita Airport (NRT) on the first day, airport transfer is not included. We will provide with full instructions to get to the hotel in advance, or we can arrange shared shuttle service for you at US$60.00 per person per way.
Meal Requests
Vegetarian or special meals can be arranged.
Meet and Greet
The meet-and-greet is ONLY available for flights arriving in Terminal 1 & 2 after 11:00 AM. For guests arriving in Terminal 3, airport pickup is not included, but we will provide you with directions to get to your hotel in advance.
If you plan to stay extra nights before the start of the tour, we will provide full instructions in advance for you to transfer to your hotel on your own.
If you wish to stay extra nights before the tour starts, please contact us to book hotel accommodations.
Others
International flights are not included on our tours - this allows you the flexibility to choose your own departure and get the best value for your money!
We can arrange international flights if needed, please ask for details.
If you wish to stay extra nights before the tour starts, please contact us to book hotel accommodations.
Craft Your Unforgettable Japanese Journey
Let us design your ultimate luxury escape to Japan. Reach out today for an exclusive travel experience tailored just for you.