Honeymoon in Japan

Arrival at Tokyo airport (Narita NRT or Haneda HND).
Welcome to Japan! Yokoso! 日本へようこそ！

Welcome through customs by our airport assistant, who will give you all your travel documents and your Pocket WiFi.
Unaccompanied transfer from the airport to Tokyo:

The transfer is done in a shared shuttle or bus, with other guests departing for the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers depart between 1.5 and 3 hours after your scheduled flight arrival, and stops may be made before your hotel.

If you would like a private, non-stop transfer directly after the arrival of your flight, feel free to select the "Private Taxi from the Airport" option when booking.

Check in at Hotel OMO3 Tokyo Akasaka by Hoshino Resorts or similar category 3* hotel (rooms available from 3pm).

You will have a double bed in your room for the entire stay, whereas most hotels in Japan only offer twin rooms with 2 single beds!

What can you do in Tokyo on your first day?

We recommend that you start your visit to Tokyo slowly, by visiting the following areas:
- Harajuku, the center of youth fashion and cosplay culture
- Meiji Jingu, the imperial shrine
- Takeshita-Dori, a must-see street full of trendy stores and crepe stands
- Omotesando, a tree-lined shopping avenue known as Tokyo's Champs-Élysées 
- Shibuya and its iconic giant pedestrian crossing

One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can also accompany you to visit the classic sights of Tokyo (optional, from 9am to 5pm).

Unveiling Tokyo's romantic side, embark on a private guided adventure and have a day unlike any other. Stroll through serene gardens, visit temples whispering legends of love, and savor a delectable meal at a restaurant renowned for its Valentine's Day ambiance. Capture breathtaking cityscapes from iconic observation decks, or personalize your itinerary with special requests. 

This private tour caters to your desires, offering a customisable experience, and the option to delve into Tokyo's must-see sights and cultural gems.

Leaving yesterday's adventures behind, today's highlight soars above the city with a breathtaking helicopter tour! Departing from Shinkiba Heliport between 1pm and dusk, you'll embark on a 17-minute adventure that will leave you speechless. 

Soar over iconic landmarks like Tokyo Tower, Ginza, Odaiba, and Rainbow Bridge, experiencing Tokyo from a whole new perspective. This unforgettable experience, showcasing the city's vastness and beauty, will be a cherished memory for both of you.

Our romantic journey begins with a luxurious ride aboard the Odakyu Romance Car! This limited express train whisks you away from Shinjuku station to Hakone in just 1 hour and 20 minutes (included in your Hakone Fee Pass). 

Imagine reclining in plush seats, enjoying panoramic views of the unfolding countryside, as excitement builds for your Hakone escape. The "Romance Car" lives up to its name, setting the perfect tone for an unforgettable couple's adventure.

On arrival, you'll be charmed by the beautiful scenery of this hot spring resort, Lake Ashi and its view of Mount Fuji (on a clear day!). Not forgetting the Owakudani volcanic site, accessible by cable car. All transport (train, bus, cable car and funicular) is included in your travel pass.

If you prefer to be accompanied during this day, one of our English-speaking guides can help reveal the secrets of the Mount Fuji region (optional).

Come back to your ryokan at the end of the afternoon, as a sumptuous traditional Japanese dinner will be waiting for you at around 6.30pm, before enjoying a Japanese-style night!

More details below on the features of the night in a ryokan.
Included in your tour: a Japanese-style bathroom in your room!

Traditional Japanese breakfast at the ryokan.

Head to Hakone-Yumoto station and then Odawara station to board one of the fastest trains in the world: the Shinkansen! Shinkansen journey to Osaka (direct, approx. 2h, including reserved tickets).

Check in to the Hotel Intergate Osaka Umeda or similar category 3* hotel (rooms available from 3pm).

What is there to do in Osaka in 2 days?

We recommend that you start your visit to Osaka slowly, in the northern and eastern districts :

- Osaka's medieval castle, with its park full of plum and cherry trees 
- The city centre and Nakanoshima Island, with its rose park surrounded by buildings 
- Utsubo Park, a cool oasis in the business district 
- Visit Umeda, the temple of Japanese shopping 
- Finish off with the Umeda Sky building at dusk for a 360° view of Kansai region (including Kyoto on a clear day!).

One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can also accompany you to visit the classic sights of Osaka (optional, from 9am to 5pm). 

Craving a taste of legendary Kobe beef? Extend your romantic getaway with an evening or next-day lunch excursion to Kobe. Savor the melt-in-your-mouth marbled wagyu Kobe beef, a culinary experience fit for royalty. Frequent trains depart every ten minutes until midnight, whisking you from Osaka to Kobe in just 22 minutes. 

In the morning, send your luggage to your hotel in Okayama (details in your travel guide, check with the hotel reception staff) so that you can travel light for your night in Miyajima.

Trade mountain views for seaside charm! A 2.5-hour journey (included in your package) brings you to the stunning Sea of Japan coastline. Explore the famed Miyajima Island, a sacred Shinto site accessible by a 15-minute boat ride (included). This "Mont Saint-Michel of Japan" awaits!

Reach your ryokan, near the island's ferry terminal. The time to explore the island has come! Itsukushima-jinja shrine and the great Otorii gate built into the sea are definitely a must-see.

Take the cable car up to Mount Misen and then come back down on foot. A breathtaking view of Hiroshima Bay awaits you!

At the ryokan, you will be treated to an exquisite traditional Japanese dinner before retiring to your tatami room.

Traditional Japanese breakfast at the ryokan.

In the morning, make a brief stop in Hiroshima (30 minutes by train from Miyajimaguchi Ferry Station, included in your package) and visit the Peace Park and its memorial.

From Hiroshima, head to Okayama by Shinkansen (about 40min, included in your package). Check in to your hotel, located between the station and the castle.

We advise you to head out early to explore the castle and its magnificent Koraku-en garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, before leaving in the middle of the afternoon for the romantic town of Kurashiki, a 17-minute train ride from Okayama (included in your package).

Kurashiki, an former merchant trade town with willow-lined canals will delight you:
- Bikan, with its traditional storehouses, now converted into delightful boutiques and cafes by the canal
- The Ohara Museum, displaying paintings by Monet, Matisse, Renoir, and many more
- The Museum of Popular Arts dedicated to regional history.

In the evening, return to Okayama and admire the illuminated castle and enjoy the romantic atmosphere.

Breakfast at the hotel.

We recommend you to spend the day visiting Naoshima island, located 1 hour from Okayama: 45 minutes by train (1 change, included in your travel pass) and 15 minutes by boat (not included in your package, about €4.50/pers for a one-way ticket). Details are in your travel guide.

Naoshima is world-famous for its modern art museums, the architecture of some of its buildings, and the scattered outdoor sculptures throughout the island. These numerous museums and buildings were designed by the architect Ando Tadao. Especially impressive is Monet's Water Lilies, displayed in a pure white, naturally-lit room that you enter without shoes.

Please note that an advanced reservation is required in order to access the Chichu Art Museum. 

Return to Okayama at the end of the day by the same route as in the morning, in the middle of the Japanese countryside.

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, before embarking on a scenic train journey (included in your package) to Kinosaki Onsen, a charming village nestled amongst mountains. Take advantage of a quick stop in Himeji to explore its majestic UNESCO World Heritage castle, a symbol of Japan's feudal past.

Upon arrival in Kinosaki, prepare to be captivated by its picturesque charm. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of your ryokan's private baths, or venture out to discover the village's seven unique public onsen.

Ditch your usual attire and slip into a yukata, a traditional light Japanese robe provided by your ryokan. Stroll along calming willow-lined canals, past charming shops, as you make your way towards the onsen. Each bath offers a unique experience, from breathtaking rooftop views to invigorating "penguin" saunas and serene outdoor baths. 

As the evening unfolds, indulge in a delectable dinner at your ryokan, featuring the region's rich culinary delights, including the famed Japanese sea crab – a true treat for your taste buds. 

Traditional Japanese breakfast at the ryokan.

Head to Kyoto by Shinkansen (about 2h30m, included in your package). From noon onwards, you can settle into your traditional Japan Experience house where a Travel Angel will welcome you. You will stay either in our Kizuna house or in Poem Box, two ideally situated cosy nests for lovers! 

You have 4 days to visit Kyoto.
Start in the afternoon in the historic Gion district, close to your accommodation:
- Kiyomizu-Dera, the impressive water temple 
- The historic streets of Sannen-zaka & Ninnen-zaka 
- Kodai-ji, Kyoto's temple of maple trees and bamboo

Finish your day with a stroll through the Gion district and enjoy the sunset.
Meet your guide at 7pm to start your evening walk around Gion, Kyoto's historic district.
More details on the exact day and meeting point can be found in your travel guide.

At the end of this 1h30 walk, your guide will be able to recommend the best places to eat dinner!
Please note that it is strictly forbidden to take pictures in the historic district of Gion.

We recommend the following itinerary for this second day's visit to Kyoto:
- Ryoan-ji Zen Garden 
- The iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
- Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
- The bewitching Philosopher's Path, especially beautiful in spring and fall
- The Nanzen-ji temple.

One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can accompany you on a tour of these symbolic sites (optional, from 9am to 5pm).

Indulge in a truly unique experience at the end of your day with a complimentary shiatsu massage in a traditional Kyoto house. Shiatsu, a cornerstone of traditional Japanese medicine, focuses on applying pressure to improve energy flow and promote relaxation. It's the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring Kyoto! 

Imagine yourselves strolling hand-in-hand through Kyoto's historic districts, clad in beautiful kimono (or less heavy yukata during the warmer months). 

This included activity allows you to experience the charm of Kyoto's past while creating unforgettable memories together. From serene Zen gardens to majestic temples, a private photographer will document your unforgettable adventure.

There are still so many places to discover in Kyoto:
- Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Arashiyama bamboo grove 
- Discover the serene Shimogamo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site 
- Unravel the peace and history of the Daitoku-ji temple complex 
- For a touch of the future, take in the stunning Kyoto Station and its iconic tower

Consider booking an English-speaking guide for a unique off-the-beaten-path adventure in Kyoto (optional). 

For your last day in Kyoto and its surroundings, we highly recommend a trip to Nara, a historic city just a 50-minute journey away using your prepaid transport card.

Visit Nara, Japan's first fixed capital in the 8th century.
Discover:
- Kasuga-taisha Shinto shrine and its thousands of lanterns 
- Todai-ji, with its great bronze Buddha and the imposing Nan-Daimon gate 
- Kofuku-ji temple and its delightful pagoda.

If you'd like to be accompanied on this day, one of our English-speaking guides can reveal all the secrets of Japan's first capital (optional).

Return to Kyoto and stop to see the sunset at the Fushimi Inari-taisha, Kyoto's immense shrine of 10,000 torii.

Take a direct transfer to Kansai International Airport (included but not accompanied).

This transfer is by shuttle or shared bus, with other customers departing from the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers arrive between 3 hours and 1.5 hours before the actual departure of your flight, and stops can be made before you arrive at the airport.

If you prefer a private transfer at a time of your choice, direct to the airport and with no intermediate stops, select the "Private Taxi to Airport" option when booking.

Return flight to your home country.

Don't hesitate to extend your trip by a few days, in Kansai or elsewhere... Get in touch and we would be happy to advise you!