Itinerary

Your journey is carefully crafted to offer a perfect balance of Tokyo's electric energy, historical charm, and Japan's serene natural landscapes. Here’s a more detailed look at what each day holds.

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Tokyo Airport – Tokyo Hotel

• Upon your arrival at Narita or Haneda Airport, your private transfer will be waiting to whisk you away to your hotel in the heart of Tokyo. The rest of the day is yours to relax and settle in after your flight.

Day 2: Tokyo to Karuizawa via Kawagoe

• Kawagoe Edo Street

  • Step back in time in Kawagoe, a city affectionately known as "Little Edo" for its beautifully preserved architecture from the Edo period (1603-1868) . You'll stroll along Kura-no-machi, the main street lined with classic "kura-zukuri" (fireproof warehouse) buildings characterized by their black tiled roofs and thick earthen walls. Don't miss the iconic Toki no Kane (Time Bell Tower), a 16-meter-tall wooden structure that has been telling time for over 400 years, its chimes selected as one of Japan's "100 Soundscapes".

• Hikawa Shrine

  • Continue to the nearby Hikawa Shrine, a historic and beloved Shinto shrine with a history of about 1,500 years. It is renowned throughout Japan as a powerful spot for "engi-musubi" (matchmaking) and is a must-visit for anyone seeking love or wishing to strengthen their relationships. Be sure to look for the unique "enmusubi" charms and the charming red string bench within the grounds.

• Stone Church

  • Your journey continues to the resort town of Karuizawa, where you'll visit the extraordinary Uchimura Kanzo Memorial Stone Church. Designed by renowned American architect Kendrick Bangs Kellogg in 1988, this is not a traditional church but a breathtaking fusion of architecture and nature. Built with stone and glass to honor Japanese Christian leader Uchimura Kanzo, its unique, organic design, like a series of stone arches emerging from the forest floor, creates a solemn and awe-inspiring atmosphere, especially when sunlight streams through the glass.

• Stay in Karuizawa

  • You will spend the night in the elegant and cool highland resort of Karuizawa.

Day 3: Kusatsu Onsen

• Kusatsu Onsen Street

  • Travel to Gunma Prefecture to experience Kusatsu Onsen, one of Japan's most famous and beloved hot spring towns. The town's vibrant heart is Yubatake (Hot Spring Field), a central area where over 4,000 liters of mineral-rich hot spring water bubble up every minute, flowing through a sprawling system of wooden channels. Stroll along the charming streets, try your luck at a batting cage, and sample local specialties like onsen manju (steamed buns filled with sweet bean paste).

• Yumomi 

  • At the historic Netsunoyu bathhouse, you'll witness the captivating Yumomi performance. Since the Edo period, locals have used this technique to cool the near-boiling spring water (over 50°C) by rhythmically stirring it with large wooden paddles. This method cools the water without diluting its beneficial minerals. Today, this practical technique has evolved into a lively cultural performance set to traditional folk songs.

• Stay in Kusatsu Onsen

  • Your stay includes an overnight at a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) in Kusatsu, where you can soak in the therapeutic waters yourself and enjoy a taste of Japanese hospitality.

Day 4: Mt. Fuji Area & Return to Tokyo

• Oshino Hakkai

  • On your way to the Mt. Fuji area, you'll stop at the mystical Oshino Hakkai. This serene site consists of eight pristine spring ponds formed by the snowmelt from Mount Fuji, which filtered through volcanic rock for decades to emerge as crystal-clear, deep blue water. Designated as a National Natural Treasure and part of the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Site, the ponds offer a breathtaking and sacred view, perfectly reflecting the majestic mountain on clear days.

• Lake Yamanaka

  • Next, enjoy the scenery at Lake Yamanaka, the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes. Its expansive, quiet shores offer some of the most spectacular and postcard-perfect views of Mount Fuji reflected in the water. Depending on the season, you might see cherry blossoms, lush greenery, or autumn leaves framing the iconic mountain.

• Gotemba Premium Outlets

  • Before heading back to Tokyo, indulge in some retail therapy at Japan's most popular outlet mall, Gotemba Premium Outlets. With around 300 stores featuring both international luxury brands and everyday favorites, you can find great deals on fashion, sports goods, and homeware, all with the stunning backdrop of Mount Fuji.

• Stay in Tokyo

  • You'll return to Tokyo for the evening, where you'll stay for the next two nights.

Day 5: Tokyo Free Day

• Tokyo Free Day

  • The entire day is yours to explore Tokyo at your own pace. Whether you want to revisit a favorite spot, dive into the neon-lit energy of Shibuya and Shinjuku, explore the serene gardens of the Imperial Palace, or hunt for electronics and anime goods in Akihabara, the choice is yours. Our team is available to help you plan this free day if you wish.

Day 6: Departure

• Tokyo Hotel – Tokyo Airport

  • After a final Japanese breakfast, your private driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you comfortably to the airport for your flight home, filled with wonderful memories of Japan.