Travel with new friends through the highlights of Japan.

This is more than a tour, it’s a cultural adventure through Japan’s timeless heart. Explore ancient temples, ride the world-famous Shinkansen, stroll lantern-lit streets, and discover a land where tradition and innovation live side by side.

Overall Trip Highlights

• Vibrant Tokyo – Tradition Meets Tomorrow – Experience the fascinating contrasts of Japan’s dynamic capital, from historic temples and bustling markets to world-class shopping, dazzling cityscapes, and modern innovation.
• Kyoto’s Timeless Treasures – Discover Japan’s cultural heart through ancient temples, serene gardens, traditional neighborhoods, and centuries-old traditions.
• Exclusive Cultural Experiences – Connect with Japan’s living heritage through an intimate geisha dinner, a traditional tea ceremony in kimono, and a hands-on Japanese cooking experience.
• Hakone & Mt. Fuji – Cruise across Lake Ashi, ride above volcanic landscapes on the Hakone Ropeway, and enjoy unforgettable views of Japan’s most iconic mountain.
• Bullet Train Adventures – Experience the world-famous Shinkansen, gliding across Japan at remarkable speeds while enjoying ever-changing countryside scenery.
• Miyajima’s Floating Shrine – Visit one of Japan’s most breathtaking spiritual sites, where a vibrant torii gate appears to float upon the sea.
• Nara’s Great Buddha & Sacred Deer – Wander through historic parks filled with friendly deer and stand before one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world.
• Arashiyama Bamboo Forest – Stroll beneath towering bamboo groves in one of Japan’s most enchanting and photographed landscapes.
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park – Reflect at one of the world’s most important historic sites, honoring resilience, remembrance, and hope for future generations.
• Kamakura & Enoshima Coast – Discover seaside temples, towering Buddhas, and spectacular ocean views along Japan’s scenic Pacific coastline.

Don’t just tour Japan, Experience Japan

Every Beatrice Bradley trip is crafted to maximize the experiences had during the trip.
The itineraries are specially made to allow time for engaging in conversation and having belly laughs with a new friend. We hope that the activities and experiences may allow you to come out of your comfort zone and to try new or unique things.
These trips are made to replicate a ‘friends get-away trip’. 

Day One: Welcome to Tokyo! 

Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival at Haneda Airport, we’ll make our way into the dazzling heart of Tokyo, where ancient traditions and cutting-edge innovation exist side by side. Settle into our hotel in the vibrant Ginza District, one of the city’s most prestigious neighborhoods, known for its elegant shopping streets, sparkling lights, and unmistakable energy.

As evening falls, we’ll gather for a memorable welcome dinner, raising a glass to new friendships and the incredible adventure ahead. Surrounded by the excitement of one of the world’s greatest cities, it’s the perfect beginning to our journey through Japan.

Highlights

• Arrival in Tokyo – Experience your first taste of Japan as you journey from the airport into the world’s largest metropolis.
• Stay in the Ginza District – Enjoy a centrally located hotel in one of Tokyo’s most stylish and iconic neighborhoods.
• Welcome Dinner with Fellow Travelers – Connect with your travel companions while celebrating the start of an unforgettable adventure.

Fun Fact: Tokyo’s skyline is a fascinating contrast – ancient temples tucked among sleek skyscrapers. On clear days, you might even spot Mount Fuji in the distance.

Day Two: Tokyo’s Treasures – Past & Present

Step into the energy of Tokyo on a full-day guided tour. Start at the lively Tsukiji Outer Market, where stalls brim with fresh seafood, sizzling snacks, and local specialties. Continue to the vibrant Harajuku District, where high fashion and playful kawaii culture fill the streets. Just steps away, the peaceful Meiji Shrine offers a serene contrast – a forested oasis tucked inside the city.

In the afternoon, visit Asakusa Temple, Tokyo’s most iconic Buddhist site, where tradition and spirituality come alive. Stroll down Nakamise Street, a lively promenade leading to the temple gates, lined with vendors selling handmade crafts, souvenirs, and traditional sweets. End the day with an authentic Japanese dinner, sharing stories and flavors with your group.

Highlights

• Tsukiji Outer Market – Tokyo’s bustling hub of food and culture
• Harajuku & Meiji Shrine – Experience the playful world of Harajuku fashion before stepping into the tranquility of Meiji Shrine’s forested grounds.
• Asakusa Temple – Visit Tokyo’s most iconic temple, a spiritual and cultural treasure.
• Nakamise Street – Browse stalls offering traditional crafts, souvenirs, and beloved Japanese treats.
• Authentic Japanese Dinner – Conclude the day with a shared meal highlighting Japan’s culinary traditions.

Fun Fact: Tokyo’s metropolitan area is home to more than 37 million people, making it the largest urban area in the world.

Day Three: Journey to Kyoto & Hands-On Japanese Cuisine

Today, we trade Tokyo’s dazzling skyline for the timeless beauty of Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart. We’ll board the world-famous bullet train, watching the landscape transform as we speed through the countryside at nearly 200 miles per hour – an unforgettable experience that is uniquely Japanese.

Upon arrival, step into a city of ancient temples, hidden alleyways, and enduring traditions. This evening, we’ll dive into one of Japan’s most beloved cultural treasures: its cuisine. During a private cooking class, local experts will guide us through the preparation of authentic Japanese dishes, sharing the techniques, stories, and flavors that have been passed down through generations. Then, sit down together to enjoy the delicious meal you’ve helped create – a memorable introduction to life in Kyoto.

Highlights

• Ride the Legendary Bullet Train – Experience one of the world’s most impressive rail systems as you race across Japan in comfort and style.
• Arrive in Historic Kyoto – Discover a city where centuries-old traditions, stunning temples, and beautiful gardens create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world.
• Private Japanese Cooking Experience – Learn authentic techniques from local experts before enjoying the meal you’ve prepared together.

Fun Fact: Kyoto was Japan’s capital for more than 1,000 years and is home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Day Four: Tea Ceremony, Castles & Bamboo Forests

Immerse yourself in the cultural elegance of Kyoto with a day designed to inspire. Begin with the timeless ritual of a traditional tea ceremony, donning a kimono as you learn the graceful art of preparing and enjoying matcha alongside delicate Japanese sweets. This unforgettable experience offers both beauty and mindfulness, and it’s the perfect way to step into Kyoto’s traditions.

Next, explore Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former residence of shoguns. Inside, admire its ornate sliding doors, intricate artwork, and the famous “nightingale floors,” which chirp underfoot to warn of intruders.

Continue your journey into nature at the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where towering stalks of bamboo create a dreamlike atmosphere that feels like stepping into another world. Conclude the day at Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, shimmering in gold leaf and reflected in its serene pond – a breathtaking sight and one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks.

In the evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a group dinner, sharing stories from the day over authentic Kyoto cuisine.

Highlights

• Kimono Tea Ceremony – Wear a kimono and experience the grace of a traditional tea ceremony with matcha and sweets.
• Nijo Castle – Step into Kyoto’s samurai-era history at this lavish UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Arashiyama Bamboo Forest – Wander through a mystical grove of towering bamboo.
• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) – Marvel at Kyoto’s most dazzling temple, shimmering against still waters.
• Group Dinner – Connect with fellow travelers over a shared evening meal in Kyoto.

Fun Fact: The top two floors of Kinkaku-ji are covered entirely in gold leaf, symbolizing purity and spiritual enlightenment.

Day Five: Sacred Deer & Timeless Elegance

Travel beyond Kyoto to the historic city of Nara, Japan’s first capital and a place steeped in cultural treasures. Stroll through Nara Park, where hundreds of friendly deer roam freely, considered sacred messengers of the gods in Shinto tradition. Then step into the awe-inspiring Todai-ji Temple, one of the world’s largest wooden structures and home to the immense bronze Great Buddha, a spiritual icon of Japan.

In the evening, return to Kyoto for an extraordinary cultural experience. Enjoy a refined geisha dinner, where traditional multi-course cuisine is paired with graceful dance, music, and engaging conversation. This rare and intimate encounter offers a glimpse into one of Kyoto’s most enduring traditions – the perfect way to conclude the day.

Highlights

• Nara Deer Park – Walk among sacred deer that symbolize peace and harmony.
• Todai-ji Temple – Discover the architectural wonder of this vast temple and its 49-foot-tall Great Buddha.
• Geisha Dinner Experience – Share an elegant evening of Kyoto cuisine, artistry, and hospitality with a geisha host.

Fun Fact: Geishas undergo years of rigorous training in traditional Japanese arts, making them masters of multiple cultural disciplines, from music to flower arranging!

Day Six: Hiroshima’s Resilience & Miyajima’s Floating Shrine

Board the sleek Shinkansen bullet train for a smooth journey from Kyoto to Hiroshima, watching the Japanese countryside roll by in comfort. Upon arrival, begin an emotional and thought-provoking exploration at Peace Memorial Park, where the A-bomb dome and memorials stand as powerful reminders of the past. Reflect on the events of August 6, 1945, and witness the city’s remarkable story of resilience and renewal.

After lunch, enjoy a peaceful ferry ride across the Seto Inland Sea to Miyajima Island, a place of natural beauty and spiritual significance. Here, the world-famous Itsukushima Shrine awaits, its vermilion torii gate appearing to float gracefully on the water at high tide — one of Japan’s most iconic and serene sights. Surrounded by tranquil landscapes and sacred deer that freely roam the island, this visit offers a beautiful balance of history, reflection, and peace.

Highlights

• Kyoto to Hiroshima by Train – Travel at high speed while enjoying views of rural Japan.
• Peace Memorial Park – Visit the A-bomb dome and memorial exhibits, honoring Hiroshima’s past and inspiring recovery.
• Miyajima Island Ferry Ride – Cruise the Seto Inland Sea to reach one of Japan’s most enchanting islands.
• Itsukushima Shrine – Experience the beauty of the shrine’s “floating” torii gate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Shared Dinner: End the day with a delightful meal, reflecting on the beauty and history you’ve explored together.

Fun Fact: Miyajima Island has long been considered sacred, with deer roaming freely as they are believed to be messengers of the gods.

Day Seven: Relaxing Arrival in Hakone

This morning, we’ll board the world-famous bullet train and journey from Hiroshima to the mountain retreat of Hakone, one of Japan’s most beloved destinations for natural beauty, hot springs, and stunning scenery. Sit back and enjoy the changing landscapes as we travel across the country before arriving in this peaceful corner of Japan.

Upon arrival, we’ll check in to the beautiful Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora, nestled along the banks of the Haya River. The afternoon is yours to unwind and embrace one of Japan’s most treasured traditions – the onsen. Soak in the mineral-rich hot springs, relax amid the tranquil mountain surroundings, and enjoy a slower pace before gathering together for a memorable group dinner.

Highlights

• Scenic Journey to Hakone – Travel through Japan aboard its legendary high-speed rail network, connecting vibrant cities with breathtaking ease.
• Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora – Enjoy an elegant riverside retreat surrounded by forests, mountains, and natural hot springs. 
• Traditional Onsen Experience – Relax in soothing mineral-rich waters and discover one of Japan’s most cherished wellness traditions.
• Group Dinner in Hakone – Gather with fellow travelers to share stories and enjoy an evening in one of Japan’s most scenic regions.

Fun Fact: Hakone has been famous for its hot springs for more than 1,200 years and remains one of Japan’s most popular getaway destinations.

Day Eight: Mt. Fuji Views, Lakeside Shrines & Hakone’s Natural Wonders

Today is filled with many of Japan’s most iconic postcard-worthy sights as we explore the breathtaking Mt. Fuji and Hakone region. From soaring mountain views to peaceful lakeside shrines, this is the Japan you’ve always imagined.

Our day begins with a visit to the famous Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine and Chureito Pagoda, one of the country’s most photographed locations. From here, enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Fuji rising behind the five-story pagoda – a scene that perfectly captures the beauty and spirit of Japan. We’ll also visit the charming village of Oshino Hakkai, known for its crystal-clear spring-fed ponds, traditional thatched-roof houses, and stunning views of Japan’s most beloved mountain.

In the afternoon, we’ll experience the natural beauty of Hakone from every angle. Cruise across Lake Ashi aboard the famous Hakone Pirate Ship, then soar above volcanic landscapes on the Hakone Ropeway, where steaming sulfur vents, dramatic mountain scenery, and unforgettable views of Mt. Fuji await. We’ll also stop at the picturesque Hakone Shrine, where the iconic vermilion torii gate appears to rise from the waters of the lake.

After a day filled with unforgettable scenery, return to Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora for time to relax and rejuvenate in the hotel’s soothing onsen. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a memorable group dinner, sharing stories from the day while surrounded by the peaceful beauty of Hakone.

Highlights

• Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine & Chureito Pagoda – Capture one of Japan’s most iconic views, with Mt. Fuji rising behind the famous five-story pagoda.
• Lake Ashi Pirate Ship Cruise – Sail across Hakone’s scenic volcanic lake surrounded by mountains and breathtaking views.
• Hakone Ropeway & Owakudani Valley – Glide above steaming volcanic vents and dramatic landscapes on one of Japan’s most spectacular aerial journeys.
• Hakone Shrine – Visit a serene lakeside shrine known for its iconic torii gate standing at the edge of Lake Ashi.
• Oshino Hakkai Village – Explore crystal-clear spring ponds, traditional architecture, and one of the most charming villages in the Mt. Fuji region.
• Onsen Relaxation at Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora – Unwind in mineral-rich hot springs after a day of exploration and sightseeing

Fun Fact: The water flowing into Oshino Hakkai’s ponds begins as snow on Mt. Fuji and filters naturally through layers of volcanic rock for decades before emerging crystal clear.

Day Nine: Back to Tokyo – Elegance in Ginza

Ride the shinkansen bullet train back to Tokyo, a seamless journey that offers one last glimpse of Japan’s scenic countryside. On arrival, check back into your hotel in the vibrant Ginza District.

Spend the afternoon strolling through Ginza’s broad avenues, where luxury boutiques stand alongside traditional craft shops and striking modern designs. If you prefer, explore a nearby museum that highlights Tokyo’s creative spirit, from contemporary art to cultural history.

As evening falls, gather with your fellow travelers for a group dinner in the heart of Tokyo, enjoying fine cuisine and the lively energy of this stylish district.

Highlights

• Shinkansen Experience – Glide back to Tokyo aboard Japan’s iconic bullet train.
• Ginza Strolling & Shopping – Explore one of Tokyo’s most stylish neighborhoods, filled with luxury and tradition.
• Cultural Discovery – Visit a nearby museum to experience Tokyo’s artistry and innovation.
• Group Dinner – Enjoy an evening meal together in one of the city’s most vibrant dining districts.

Fun Fact: Ginza was the first Tokyo district to install Western-style streetlights in the 1870s, setting the stage for its reputation as a hub of style and innovation.

Day Ten: Coastal Charm & Cultural Icons

Conclude your adventure with a guided excursion to the seaside towns of Kamakura and Enoshima, where timeless heritage meets the beauty of Japan’s coastline. Begin at the awe-inspiring Great Buddha of Kamakura, a 13th-century bronze statue that has watched over the region for centuries. Continue to the elegant Tsurugaoka Hachimangū Shrine, the spiritual heart of Kamakura, with its serene ponds, bridges, and striking torii gates.

In the afternoon, cross to Enoshima Island, a charming coastal escape filled with scenic walking paths, ocean views, and a lively shopping street lined with local eateries and boutique shops. The island’s fresh sea breezes and laid-back atmosphere offer the perfect contrast to the bustle of the cities.

Return to Tokyo in the evening for a farewell dinner, celebrating the friendships, memories, and unforgettable experiences from your journey across Japan.

Highlights

• Great Buddha of Kamakura – Encounter one of Japan’s most iconic cultural treasures.
• Tsurugaoka Hachimangū Shrine – Explore Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrine, surrounded by beauty and tradition.
• Enoshima Island – Stroll scenic trails, savor coastal views, and browse charming shops.
• Scenic Coastal Drive – Take in Sagami Bay’s sweeping seascapes as you travel.
• Farewell Dinner – Share one final evening together, reflecting on your journey through Japan.

Fun Fact: The Great Buddha of Kamakura once sat inside a temple hall, but after a 15th-century tsunami swept the structure away, the statue has stood gracefully outdoors ever since.

Day Eleven: Departure Day – Farewell to Friends!

Savor one last breakfast with your fellow travelers, reflecting on the extraordinary journey you’ve shared across Japan. This final morning is a chance to celebrate the friendships, stories, and unforgettable experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your journey back, carrying with you cherished memories of Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and beyond.

Note: This itinerary serves as a general guide to what we will be doing, seeing, and eating, with the final version provided approximately two weeks prior. The published itinerary is an example and may be adjusted to include accommodations, tours, or restaurants of comparable quality to ensure the best experience.