Experience Japan's most beautiful spring highlights with Japan Highlights Travel. Beyond the visual feast of a 'cherry blossom blizzard', our meticulously-designed itinerary immerses you in spring-exclusive cultural activities, engaging all five senses. We specialize in crafting personalized itineraries, allowing us to tailor every detail to your preferences and create your dream trip.
Our itinerary allows for a longer stay in Kyoto because this city, steeped in history, offers a profoundly authentic and immersive cherry blossom ambiance, truly capturing the essence of old Japan. While Tokyo and Osaka present a modern urban experience where cherry blossoms are less prominent, Kyoto's cultural landscape provides the ideal setting to fully appreciate these iconic blooms. For a truly magnificent spring trip, we strongly advise at least three days in Kyoto to fully experience its unique charm during this spectacular season!
Travelers ❤ Japan Highlights Japan Highlights is a proud member of the Highlights Travel Family (trusted since 1998). Reviews are updated monthly from Tripadvisor, Google & Trustpilot. ×
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Memorable Time in Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto and Osaka
We had a wonderful time in the two small towns and two larger cities that Asia Highlights booked for us. Kaya Han was very very helpful in booking great interactive activities that enhanced our experience and knowledge. More
Date of Experience:: May 2025
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Awesome Tokyo Tour!
People calling we were so lucky to have Kimora as our tour guide! Not only was he very knowledgeable about the area, but created a wonderful experience for us every day and the timing of the events and recommendations he made were top-notch! As first-timers to Japan, he had our backs! More
Date of Experience:: May 2025
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Amazing custom tour to Korea and Japan
I booked a custom trip to South Korea and Japan with Asia Highlights and had an incredible experience. Alisa was my 7/24 contact she tailored the itinerary thoughtfully and in accordance with my interests. During the trip she was always available with answers to all my requests. Local guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and made everything stress-free. More
Date of Experience:: May 2025
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Journey Route
Highlights
Discover profound tranquility at Japan's ancient temples and shrines, beautifully framed by spring's cherry blossoms.
Explore magnificent castles and serene Japanese gardens, imagining aristocratic life amidst delicate blooms.
Experience unique cherry blossom viewing on scenic train rides through floral tunnels and peaceful boat cruises along historied waterways.
Marvel at majestic Mount Fuji from stunning vantage points like Mishima Skywalk and a serene Lake Ashi cruise.
Witness a spring-exclusive cherry blossom geisha dance performance steeped in centuries of tradition.
Enjoy live music under the romantic glow of illuminated night cherry blossoms at enchanting Heian Jingu.
Don a traditional kimono for photos among cherry blossoms and participate in an authentic matcha tea ceremony.
Witness the enchanting sight of wild deer mingling among blooming cherry trees – a truly magical spring encounter.
Savor an array of world-class Japanese cuisine including a sushi class, Kyoto's tofu dishes, and Osaka's vibrant street food.
Relax in therapeutic hot springs at traditional Hakone ryokans.
Itinerary in Detail
We arrange plenty of cultural activities to help create memorable experiences along the way. We also take time to admire the nature, and enjoy great foods. Of course, all of them are adjustable according to your ideas!
Upon arrival at Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) airport, a private transfer will whisk you to your Tokyo hotel.
Settle in and unwind, preparing for an incredible journey through Japan's vibrant capital and beyond. The evening is yours to relax at leisure, perhaps exploring your hotel's surroundings.
- Commence the journey at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a place of tranquility amid Tokyo's bustling city life. Majestic flora and seasonal blossoms provide a refreshing start to your day.
- Afterwards, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple, and explore lively Nakamise Dori.
- Conclude your cultural morning with a hands-on sushi-making experience, learning from a master and enjoying your fresh creations for lunch.
- Cap off your day with breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo from Tokyo Skytree.
- Journey from Tokyo to the scenic embrace of Hakone.
- Begin at Mishima Skywalk, Japan's longest pedestrian suspension bridge, offering stunning views of majestic Mount Fuji.
- Next, embark on a picturesque sightseeing cruise on Lake Ashi aboard a "pirate ship". Admire the iconic Peace Torii gate in front of the Fuji foothills.
- Conclude your day by exploring the volcanic marvel of Owakudani via the Owakudani Ropeway, experiencing its unique sulfurous landscape before relaxing in a traditional Japanese onsen ryokan (hot spring inn).
Begin your day with a scenic transfer to Odawara Station. Board the renowned Shinkansen Hikari train for a swift and comfortable journey to Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital.
Upon arrival, make your way to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Take this opportunity to relax or begin a gentle exploration of Kyoto's charming streets.
- On day 5, immerse yourself in Kyoto's serene side.
- Begin with a tranquil stroll along the Uji River, where over 2,000 cherry trees create a picturesque corridor, offering a serene hanami experience away from crowds.
- Visit the exquisite Byodo-in temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Phoenix Hall.
- Then, engage in an authentic matcha-making experience at a historied tea shop, learning the art of this traditional Japanese beverage.
- Conclude your day with a captivating Miyako Odori ('cherry blossom dance'), a centuries-old geisha performance celebrating spring.
- Embark on a day of iconic Kyoto experiences.
- Start at the magnificent Kiyomizu-dera temple (Pure Water Temple), perched on a mountainside with sweeping city views.
- Next, delve into traditional Japanese aesthetics with a kimono-wearing experience, perfect for memorable photos amidst cultural landmarks.
- Afterwards, find serenity at Nanzen-ji temple and savor a delightful Kyoto tofu cuisine lunch at Junsei, a renowned garden restaurant nearby.
- Stroll along the picturesque Philosopher's Path, a prime hanami spot lined with hundreds of cherry trees.
- Conclude your evening with the enchanting Heian Jingu Sakura Otoyo (Benishidare) Concert and Evening Cherry Blossom Illumination, experiencing live music and the romantic glow of illuminated cherry blossoms.
- Discover Kyoto's rich history and natural beauty.
- Begin with a visit to Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing impressive architecture and beautiful gardens.
- Next, marvel at the shimmering Kinkaku-ji temple (Golden Pavilion), its top two floors covered in gold leaf.
- Experience a unique cherry blossom viewing as you ride the Randen Kitano Line tram through a breathtaking cherry blossom tunnel.
- Conclude your day by wandering through the ethereal Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and admiring the tranquil gardens of Tenryu-ji temple, a UNESCO site, before crossing the iconic Togetsu-kyo bridge.
- Begin your day at the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famed for its thousands of vermilion torii gates.
- Next, enjoy a unique Fushimi Jikkokubune Cherry Blossom Cruise along the Uji River, gliding past traditional sake breweries and willow trees.
- Visit historical Gekkeikan Sake Brewery for a tasting and museum tour.
- Then, journey to Nara, where you can interact with friendly deer roaming freely in Nara Park and visit the awe-inspiring Todai-ji temple, home to a colossal Buddha statue.
- Finally, transfer to Osaka for the evening.
- Explore Osaka's dynamic essence today.
- Begin with a visit to Osaka Castle Park, exploring the impressive castle tower and its surrounding green spaces, often adorned with cherry blossoms.
- Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere and diverse culinary offerings of Kuromon Market, known as 'Osaka's Kitchen'.
- Then, embark on our immersive Osaka Food Tour: Dotonbori Delights and Hozenji Charm, where you'll cook your own okonomiyaki (filled pancakes), sample authentic takoyaki (dumplings), and explore charming alleyways.
- Conclude your day with a cultural experience at the Kamigata Ukiyo-e Museum and a hands-on Ukiyo-e Printing Experience, creating your own traditional Japanese woodblock print souvenir.
Enjoy a final Japanese breakfast at your hotel. A private transfer will be arranged to take you to Kansai International Airport (KIX) for your departure, carrying with you cherished memories of your charming cherry blossom tour across Japan.
Sayonara! Wishing you a safe and peaceful onward journey!
Hand-Picked Hotels
We have selected hotels with different styles and for different budgets. Let us know your preferences and we will help you find the right one.
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Hakone Kowakien Mikawaya Ryokan
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Kyoto Century Hotel
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Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
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Tour Price:
- The price is based on a private tour for 2 people during the peak (cherry blossom) season.
- The price varies based on program, travel date, number of people.
- We could also price a tour including both 4-star and 5-star hotels for you.
- We accept payments in multiple currencies (GBP, AUD, CAD, EUR...).
Price Includes:
- Privately-driven air-conditioned vehicle with ample space (except where stated)
- English-speaking local guide for the sightseeing
- Attraction tickets and itinerary activities
- Accommodation for all nights
- Trains between itinerary cities
- Hotel breakfasts and itinerary lunches/dinners
- 24/7 helpline while touring
- Governmental taxes
Price Excludes:
- International flights not mentioned in the itinerary
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Visa fee, if applicable
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Personal expenses
Tour code: ah-jp-20
Our Service Includes:
- Private transport and personal English-speaking tour guide
- All guided sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
- Hotel accommodation mentioned in the itinerary
- Breakfasts at hotels
- Governmental taxes
Tour code: ah-jp-20
Inquire now! Your 1:1 travel consultant will reply within 1 working day.
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At Japan Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.