A Private Japan Tour of Food & Fun – Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka

Day 1 Arrive Tokyo
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel by private car. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon to relax, or soak in the energy of Shibuya Crossing, just steps from your hotel. (B)

Day 2 Tokyo
Explore Tokyo’s most iconic highlights on a full-day tour with your private guide at your service: Meander through the tranquil paths of Meiji Shrine, feel the pulse of tradition at Sensoji Temple, browse the lively Nakamise shopping street, and awaken your senses at Tsukiji Fish Market. Cap off the day with an immersive experience at teamLab Planets (or teamLab Borderless), where interactive light, color, and sound transform space into art you can feel. (B)

Day 3 Tokyo
Enjoy the day at leisure to explore the city on your own (your dedicated specialist will be happy to help you plan the day). Later this evening, choose from one of the following exciting outings:  

Option 1 (Fun Night Out around town): As night falls, follow your guide into Shinjuku’s neon-lit Kabukicho district, where Tokyo’s energy comes alive. Duck into a tiny local bar to share a drink with Tokyoites unwinding after work, then cap off the evening in true Japanese style — with a private karaoke session to remember. (B)

Option 2 (Foodies Tour & Izakaya Experience): Dive into Tokyo’s lively Izakaya culture on this flavorful night out in Shinjuku. Sample 7+ delicious bites across three handpicked spots — enough for a full dinner — and pair your meal with sake, beer, or soft drinks. As you wander through glowing alleyways and neon-lit streets, discover both iconic sights and hidden local gems in Kabukicho. (B,D) 

Option 3 (Wagyu & Sake Tasting): Tonight, indulge in an elegant 8-course wagyu dinner featuring premium cuts prepared in a variety of traditional and creative styles. Each dish is expertly paired with craft sake — from regional pours to inventive cocktails — designed to enhance every bite. Along the way, uncover the rich history and cultural nuances of Japan’s most exquisite delicacy. (B,D)

***Note: For options 2 and 3, programs are on a shared basis with other fellow food lovers. Guests are to make own way to the meeting spot in Shinjuku. 

Day 4 Tokyo / Kyoto 
Transfer to Shinagawa Station on your own and board a Nozomi Shinkansen, one of the fastest bullet trains in Japan for Kyoto. Upon arrival, be met at Kyoto Station by your guide and commence sightseeing of Kyoto. Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates straddling a network of trails behind its main buildings leading into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari. Next, trace the footsteps of pilgrims as you explore Kyoto’s sacred Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, then descend into the lively bustle of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka—vibrant lanes lined with colorful storefronts, sweet shops, and street snacks. Sample Kobe beef on a stick or mochi ice cream as you stroll through the iconic Yasaka Shrine and into the Gion District, where tradition hums beneath the energy of the city. Check into your hotel located steps from downtown where a plethora of dining and entertainment options abound. (B)

Day 5 Kyoto (Western Kyoto by Bicycle)
This morning, explore Western Kyoto on two wheels starting with Golden Pavilion. Witness first-hand the shimmering beauty of Kyoto’s Golden Pavilion, reflected in still waters and framed by sculpted pines. Wander the atmospheric Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering stalks sway gently overhead; pause at the meditative Ryoan-ji Zen rock garden; and cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge with its sweeping views of the Katsura River.  Enjoy your afternoon at leisure to relax and further explore Kyoto on your own. Optional experiences such as a tea ceremony, kimono dressing, or cooking class can elevate your connection to this timeless city. (B)

Day 6 Kyoto (Cooking Fun)
Morning at leisure to relax and explore the city on your own. This afternoon,  make your way to the Cooking Sun Studios (about a 10-minute taxi ride) and enjoy a 3-hour fun and tasty cooking lesson.  Immerse yourself in Japanese dining culture with this hands-on afternoon izakaya cooking experience. In a cozy kitchen reminiscent of a neighborhood pub, prepare and enjoy classics like kinpira gobo, hijiki seaweed salad, tofu meatballs, crispy karaage, savory okonomiyaki, and refreshing yuzu jelly. The class is split into two sessions — cook and savor your first dishes, then return to the kitchen for the next round.  Balance of the afternoon is yours to relax and explore beautiful Kyoto. (B,L)

Day 7 Kyoto / Osaka
This morning, depart Kyoto on a short 20 minute train for Osaka. Dubbed “Japan’s Kitchen”, Osaka is renowned for its culinary delights, glowing neon lights and lively atmosphere. Visit Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks that played a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century. Next up is the Osaka Kizu Market, a lively wholesale market known for its fresh seafood, produce, and meats offering an authentic Japanese market experience, followed by a stroll through Shinsekai famed for its retro charm, delicious street food, and the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower. 

Drop off at your hotel, settle in and enjoy some free time before heading out for a night of food and fun. As night falls, taste your way through Osaka’s kitchen on a flavorful tour of handpicked restaurants and shops, savoring the city’s signature dishes with your choice of drinks. Between bites, explore both iconic and hidden corners of Kuromon, Namba, and Dotonbori, soaking in the neon-lit atmosphere that makes this city truly unforgettable. (B,D)

***Note: Food tour on a shared basis with other fellow food lovers. Meeting place located a short walk from your hotel. ***

Day 8 Osaka (Free day to explore)
Enjoy a full day at leisure with the Osaka Amazing Pass in hand, giving you access to top attractions across the city. Step back in time at Osaka Castle, take in sweeping skyline views from the Floating Garden Observatory, and use your pass to hop between fun, free-entry sites and experiences. In between, savor street food in lively Dotonbori, browse the boutiques of Shinsaibashi, or wander into hidden backstreets. Your travel specialist will be happy to suggest experiences tailored to your interests. (B)

Day 9 Return Home
Transfer to the Kansai or Itami Airport in Osaka by private car for your departure flight home. (B)

****END OF PROGRAM****

• Price is per person, based on double occupancy and minimum of 2 passengers
• LS (Low Season): January -February; June, September; December. 7-28
• HS (High Season): March – May; October – December 6
• Price includes entrance fees, hotel taxes & service charges
• Price excludes all airfares, personal expenses, meals not specified, beverages during included meals
• Tour commences in Tokyo and ends in Kyoto
• Peak Season Surcharges or blackout dates apply during Sakura season (Cherry Blossoms in late March – mid April), Golden Week Holiday (April 29-May 6) & December Holiday period (Dec. 24- Jan. 03). Please contact us for details and restrictions.
• Tour prices are based on travel completing within the above said period. Due to hotel rate differences, pro-ration of tour price may be required for travel spanning two calendar months. Contact us for details.
• All services are subject to availability at time of reservation