Japan - Discover Japan: A First-Timer’s Guide to Culture and Traditions - JoinMyTrip
Japan - Tokyo - Discover Japan: A First-Timer’s Guide to Culture and Traditions - 1
Japan - Tokyo - Discover Japan: A First-Timer’s Guide to Culture and Traditions - 2
Japan - Kyoto - Discover Japan: A First-Timer’s Guide to Culture and Traditions - 1
Japan - Kyoto - Discover Japan: A First-Timer’s Guide to Culture and Traditions - 2
About this trip

Discover Japan: A First-Timer’s Guide to Culture and Traditions

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Guided trip

Thalita will take the lead and plan your journey for you. Just sit back and enjoy the adventure.

What's special?
Guided by a Local Expert
Authentic Cultural Experiences
Diverse Accommodation Styles
Details about this trip
Explore the Heart of Japan on an 8-Day Cultural Adventure 🏯 Kick off your journey in dynamic Tokyo 🏙️, where cutting-edge innovation meets timeless tradition. Then, lose yourself in the tranquil splendour of Kyoto 🌸—from the majestic gates of Chion-in to the lantern-lit path of Yasaka Shrine ⛩️. Soak in panoramic vistas from Mount Hiei 🌄, try your hand at time-honoured crafts like mochi-making 🍡, and wander among Nara’s gentle deer to connect with ancient heritage 🦌. Finally, wrap up your odyssey in electric Osaka 🎎, where storied past and pulsating city life come together in perfect harmony.

Hi! I'm Thalita, a 32-year-old trip leader from Brazil, living in the UK for 21 years. 🌍 I’ve been passionate about Japan since my first visit in 2014. With a degree in Japanese Studies and fluency in Japanese, I'll be your guide, sharing my love for Japan 🇯🇵 and ensuring you experience its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unique traditions first-hand. Let’s embark on an unforgettable journey together! ✈️🌸

Our trip features a mix of accommodations to give you a variety of authentic Japanese experiences. In Tokyo, we’ll stay in a lively hostel in Shinjuku 🏢, where everyone will share a room, perfect for bonding and experiencing the city's vibrant nightlife. In Kyoto, we’ll enjoy a traditional ryokan experience 🏯 with futons and a shared bathroom, staying near Kyoto Station for easy access to the city. We’ll have three cozy rooms, each shared between two people. Finally, in Osaka, we’ll relax in a comfortable three-bedroom apartment 🏠 near Osaka Castle, giving us a taste of local living with private space to unwind.

What's included?Hide
Transport Between Stops
Entrance Fee as a Group
2 Special traditional Dinner experiences
2 nights in Ryokan
Mochi Pounding Experience
Matcha Master Class
What's excluded?Hide
International Flights
Visa
Meals and Beverage*

Trip Cover

Your Booking includes free protection from Trip cancellations.
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Your trip itinerary

8 days trip

Tokyo, Kyoto & 2 more

Accommodation

Hostel & Other & Apartments

Transportation

Train

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Tokyo

Day 1-4
Our adventure begins in the vibrant heart of Japan, Tokyo! 🏙️ On our first day, we'll meet and check in at our hostel in Shinjuku 🏨, where we can leave our luggage 🎒 before starting a light exploration of the bustling Shinjuku area. Later, we'll come together for our first group dinner, included in the package, to kick off our trip in style! 🍽️🎉 The following day, we rise early to explore the famous Tsukiji Outer Market for a taste of fresh seafood 🍣🦪, followed by a visit to the serene Koishikawa Korakuen Garden 🌿🪴 and a stroll around the Imperial Palace 🏯👑. We'll then dive into the electric atmosphere of Shibuya, including a visit to local izakayas for an authentic experience 🏮🍶. On our third day, we’ll explore Ueno Park 🌸🦆, delve into history at the Edo-Tokyo Museum 🏛️📜, visit the historic Asakusa district 🏮🛕, and take in the views from the Tokyo Skytree 🗼✨. The evening will be free for personal exploration or relaxation. The next morning, after breakfast, we'll board a bullet train 🚅💨, speeding towards our next destination: Kyoto! 🌸🎎
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Kyoto

Day 4-6
Arrive in Kyoto at 9 AM ⏰ and settle into our traditional ryokan 🏯. After checking in and leaving our luggage 🎒, we’ll explore the charming Gion district 👘 and its picturesque streets 🌸. The next morning, take in the serene views from Mount Hiei 🌄 before visiting Chion-in Temple ⛩️ for a peaceful start to the day 🙏. Spend the day exploring Kyoto’s highlights: Visit the lively Nishiki Market for local delicacies 🍢🍡 Tour the historic Nijo Castle 🏰 Immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage 📜🎎 The following morning, enjoy an early visit to Byōdōin Temple 🛕, participate in a Matcha master class 🍵, and wander through the tranquil Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 🎋🌿..
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Nara

Day 6
After a refreshing morning exploring Byōdōin Temple 🛕 and the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 🎋🌿 in Kyoto, we’ll take a train 🚆 to Nara. Upon arrival, our day will be filled with rich history and culture. We’ll visit Tōdai-ji Temple, home to the world’s largest wooden structure and the impressive Great Buddha statue 🕉️🙏. Next, we’ll delve into Japan’s past at the Nara National Museum 🏛️📚, where fascinating exhibits offer insights into the country’s ancient heritage. In Nara Park, enjoy the unique experience of interacting with friendly shika deer 🦌❤️ that roam freely. These gentle creatures add a touch of magic ✨ to the historical ambiance of the park. Later, we’ll participate in a Mochi Pounding Experience 🍡🔨, where you’ll learn the traditional method of making mochi and taste this popular Japanese delicacy.
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Osaka

Day 6-8
Arrive in Osaka in the late afternoon 🌆 and check in to our comfortable apartment 🏠🛌, where we’ll stay for the next two nights. Begin our exploration in the vibrant Namba district and Dōtonbori, known for its neon lights 🌟🎆, bustling streets 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️, and delicious street food 🍜🍡. As night falls, we’ll head out for an energetic karaoke session 🎤🎶, where we can sing, dance, and have a blast together! The following day will be filled with a blend of history and modern attractions. Visit Osaka Castle 🏯, a majestic symbol of the city’s past, and explore the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living 🏘️🏛️ to see how people lived in historical times. Next, we’ll head to the Osaka Farm Museum 🚜🌾, offering insights into traditional rural life. In the evening, enjoy panoramic views from the Umeda Sky Building 🌇🧐 before visiting Tsūtenkaku Tower 🗼✨ for a final stunning cityscape. We’ll wrap up our Osaka adventure with a memorable farewell dinner 🍽️🥂, celebrating the end of our journey with golden keys 🔑 and great company!