Gourmet Japan: Tokyo to Osaka for foodies

Tokyo

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Welcome to Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun, where Eastern traditions and sleek modernity mingle. Once you land in Tokyo, meet your driver at the airport and head to your hotel by private car. The rest of the day is free for you to rest after your journey and start to discover this amazing city.

Tokyo

Day 2: Big city tour

Set off after an early breakfast for a full-day private guided tour of Tokyo. You’ll explore using the city’s excellent public transport system, accompanied by your local guide.

There's no better place to learn about Japan's culinary culture in Tokyo than the exciting Tsukiji Fish Market. Around 400 shops and restaurants are crammed into narrow lanes, trading in all kinds of fresh and dried seafood, traditional snacks and cooking ingredients. Later, pass the Imperial Palace and then continue to the historic Nihonbashi Bridge area and the Senso-ji Temple, one of Tokyo's most significant Buddhist temples. Stroll along the lively Nakamise-dori street flanked by shops, then arrive at the second gate, Hozomon, beyond which stands the temple's main hall and a five-story pagoda.

Later, head back to your hotel and enjoy a free evening at your own pace.

Fujikawaguchiko

Day 3: Mount Fuji thrills

After breakfast, embark on a Kawaguchiko tour with vistas of Mt Fuji. In a private car with your guide, it’s a scenic 2.5-hour drive to reach this idyllic destination, where the peak can be admired from various breathtaking vantage points. Mt Fuji is Japan's tallest mountain and is a revered cultural icon. You'll also visit Oshino Hakkai, a picturesque village renowned for its crystal-clear spring water ponds. Later, head to Arakurayama Sengen Park, home to the beautiful Chureito Pagoda and particularly atmospheric during the cherry blossom season or autumn foliage. For a closer experience with the sacred mountain, enjoy a relaxing cruise on Lake Kawaguchi, one of the Fuji Five Lakes at the base of the volcano. The serene waters provide a mirror-like reflection of Mt Fuji, creating a perfect setting for photos.

After a full day, head back to the city for an evening at leisure.

Tokyo

Day 4: Sushi time!

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast followed by a free morning for your own Tokyo discoveries, or simply unwind at the hotel. In the afternoon, discover the succulent secrets of sushi with a hands-on sushi-making experience, where you’ll learn to make nigiri, inari and other delicious dishes. Nigiri sushi is made by moulding rice into a bite-sized, oval shape and topping it with thin slices of raw or cooked fish, or other ingredients. Depending on the fish used, nigiri is often enjoyed with wasabi paste, pickles, soy sauce or shiso leaves. A friendly instructor will guide you through the process during this fun culinary experience, where you'll learn all about Japanese cuisine.

After this lip-smacking session, the rest of the night is yours to explore more of Tokyo or simply relax.

Kyoto

Day 5: Tea ceremony

After breakfast today, catch the Bullet Train to Kyoto for a tea ceremony. In the morning, head to the train station for the Shinkansen train to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours, ticket included). On arrival, make your way through the historic streets of Kyoto to your hotel for check in.

This afternoon, you'll participate in a kimono tea ceremony to experience the charm of sado, 'the way of tea'. A tea ceremony is the tradition of preparing and drinking matcha green tea, usually in a traditional tearoom with tatami floor. Change into a kimono, learn about the art of Zen in the tea ceremony and taste traditional Japanese sweets during this quintessential experience.

This evening, you're free to explore this fascinating city further.

Kyoto

Day 6: Grand tour of the city

After this morning's breakfast, it's time to enjoy a full day exploring Kyoto’s many highlights on a private guided tour.

Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple, the famed Golden Pavilion, shining above a peaceful pool. Then head to Nijo Castle, built as the Kyoto residence of the first shogun of the Edo Period (1603-1867). Later, explore the grand Ninomaru Palace and the beautiful Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, featured in the movie Memoirs of a Geisha. Here, you have the option of an easy hike following the torii-lined route up the mountain for sweeping views.

End a wonderful day at Gion, the city's historic geisha district. Learn about the captivating stories behind the age-old architecture here and gain insight into Japan’s geisha culture.

Kyoto

Day 7: Free day of exploration

Today is left free for you to explore Kyoto independently. After you've enjoyed a relaxed breakfast at the hotel, you might wish to visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where you can roam under a ceiling of vibrant shades of green and soak in the peaceful vibe. Alternatively, explore the beautiful temple gardens of Tenryuji, a World Heritage Site considered one of Kyoto's best Zen temples, then stroll along the banks of the Katsura River to reach Togetsu-kyo Bridge, the ‘moon crossing bridge’. Alternatively, opt for a half-day trip to Suntory Yamazaki Distillery, where you'll enjoy a whisky tasting and learn about the whisky production process.

In the evening, head out to one of the city's many restaurants and discover the local cuisine.

Osaka

Day 8: Food heaven

After breakfast, take the hotel's shuttle to the railway station for a short train ride to Osaka (train ticket included). After you arrive in the city, famed as the culinary capital of Japan, head to your hotel and settle down. You can then explore under your own steam or relax at the hotel.

The Osaka Castle, arguably the city's most prominent landmark, and the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living are both great places for exploration. Then, join in a sensational Osaka food experience. This tasty foodie tour takes you to Dotonbori and Shinsekai, where you'll feel the nostalgic atmosphere while strolling the streets of Shinsekai. Savour traditional dishes loved by locals, such as Okonomiyaki, Takoyaki and Kushikatsu, a dish of deep-fried, skewered meat and vegetables, and learn fascinating facts about the local culinary traditions from your passionate local guide.

Himeji - Kobe

Day 9: Castles & Kobe beef

Today, meet your guide and driver in the hotel lobby after breakfast for a private guided day trip to visit the UNESCO-listed Himeji Castle and Kobe city. The castle comprises a network of 83 buildings with advanced defensive systems from the feudal period. Then, head to Kobe to find a spot for lunch. Perhaps try Kobe beef, considered among the best wagyu beef in the country. The tender, flavourful meat is well marbled with fat and comes from the Tajima-gyu breed of Japanese Black cattle raised in Hyogo prefecture. This afternoon, a sake-tasting experience awaits: Kobe's Nada district has long been famous for this delicate rice wine. Within the area lies Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum, an old brewhouse turned into a museum. Here you will learn about the brewing process and sample some vintages. Return to your hotel and enjoy one last evening out in Osaka.

Osaka

Day 10: Heading home

After breakfast this morning, it's time to depart for Osaka airport and board your home-bound flight with wonderful memories in your heart.