Tokyo to Okinawa beaches
- Duration : 18 days
- Locations : Tokyo, Hakone Mt Fuji, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Okinawa
This Japan tour gives you the opportunity to visit Tokyo and Kyoto, contemplate Mount Fuji, and discover Hiroshima and its sacred island, Miyajima.
Finish this trip to Japan with 5 days on the fabulous beaches of the Okinawa islands!
This trip includes transportation, guided tours, and unique accommodations: a ryôkan, a Japan Experience house, and a beach resort. A trip to make whatever the season!
18-day itinerary
- Departure city/Airport : Tokyo (Narita : NRT or Haneda : HND)
- Tokyo (4 nights)
- Hakone - Mount Fuji (1 night)
- Kyoto (3 nights, including one day-trip in Nara)
- Miyajima and Hiroshima (2 nights)
- Fukuoka and its surroundings (2nights)
- Okinawa (Iriomote and Ishigaki islands, 5 nights)
- Return city/Airport : Ishigaki (Ishigaki International Airport : ISG)
Please find below the itinerary details.
Tour length : 17 nights / 18 days (+ 1 day at the beginning if you leave from Europe)
PLEASE NOTE: The departure and end dates shown on this page only apply to your stay in Japan. You must therefore leave Europe the day before the first day of your tour. The date of your return flight and that of your return to Europe are identical due to the time difference.
Example :
- Departure from Europe : January 1st
- Arrival in Tokyo (= the date to be selected in the calendar when booking) : January 2nd
- Return flight from Fukuoka International Airport FUK / Return to Europe : January 19th
Please note that flights are not included in the price of your tour.
Do you like Okinawa? Don't hesitate to have a look at our other 3 week tour Archipelago from North to South, which ends with several days in its paradisiacal islands
Why this trip to Japan?
- Welcomed at the airport by our team, you will be taken to Tokyo by shuttle bus
- Head to the edge of Mount Fuji for an unforgettable dinner and overnight stay in a ryokan
- Travel by Shinkansen to Kyoto where a guided tour of the traditional geisha quarter awaits you
- In Kyoto, an English-speaking travel angel will welcome you to a Japan Experience house
- Go to Hiroshima and the sacred island of Miyajima before arriving in Fukuoka
- The Okinawa archipelago will have you seduced by its natural beauty and white sandy beaches
- Transportation: Japan Rail Pass, Hakone Free Pass, flight to Okinawa, boat between islands
- Enjoy unlimited internet access thanks to your pocket Wi-Fi
- If needed, contact our bilingual Japanese/English-speaking assistance team available 7/7
- Numerous guided days or other optional activities available
- Benefit from the expertise of Japan Experience, Europe's number one travel agency in Japan
Your trip in detail
Itinerary
Day 1 : Wake up in Tokyo 東京
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 (see details).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 take the "Private Taxi from the Airport" option.
Check in at Hotel OMO3 Tokyo Akasaka by Hoshino Resorts or similar category 3* hotel (rooms available from 3pm).
Day 2 : First steps in the capital
What to do in Tokyo on your first day
We recommend that you start your visit to Tokyo slowly by visiting the following districts:
- Harajuku, the avant-garde district ;
- Meiji Jingû, the imperial sanctuary ;
- Takeshita-Dôri, a must-see street in the capital ;
- Omotesandô, Tokyo's Champs-Élysées ;
- Shibuya and its impressive crossroads.One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can also accompany you to visit the classic sights of Tokyo (optional, from 9am to 5pm).
End your day in style with an evening stroll through Shinjuku, one of Tokyo's most important districts.
Meet your guide at 7 p.m. for an unique walk lasting around 2 hours, during which you will pass through Kabukichô and the Golden Gai, among others.
More details on the exact day and meeting place in your travel diary.Day 3 : The big loop
For this second day of sightseeing in Tokyo, we recommend the following "loop".
Start at Tokyo Central Station, with its original architecture, then head off to visit :
- Ginza, Tokyo's chic district ;
- Tsukiji, the small outdoor food market ;
- Hama-rikyû, the Japanese garden between Tokyo's buildings ;
- Asakusa, a traditional district and place of pilgrimage, accessible by cruise on the Sumida river ;
- Sensô-ji, the oldest Buddhist temple in the Japanese capital ;
- Tokyo Sky Tree, 643 metres high, with its panoramic view of Tokyo at sunset.Between Hama-rikyû Garden and Asakusa, why not enjoy a cruise on the Sumida River ?
Day 4 : Follow the guide
There are still many places to discover according to your taste ! Ueno, Yanaka, Odaiba...
Don't hesitate to book an English-speaking guide for the day (optional) to visit Tokyo off the beaten path!
Make the most of our many optional activities:
- Are you looking more for fun? Ghibli Museum, Disneyland or Hello Kitty Park are waiting for you!
- Do you prefer a themed activity? Book a visit on an architecture tour, gardens, home cooking or Noh's theatre.
- Chasing thrills? Let yourself be tempted by a helicopter ride or a sumo tournament (in season)!Day 5 : At the heart of the Japanese soul
In the morning, we advise you to send your luggage to your hotel in Kyoto (details in your travel diary, check with the hotel reception) so that you can travel light for your night in Hakone.
Go to Shinjuku station to activate your Hakone Free Pass and board a train for Hakone Yumoto (1h30 journey, details in your travel guide, included in your package). The train leaves the Japanese megalopolis and gradually winds its way through the valleys of the Mount Fuji region. You will arrive in Hakone in the late morning. Reach Ichinoyu Shinkan ryôkan or equivalent to drop off your small bag and explore the region.
You'll be charmed by the beautiful scenery of this spa 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 package.
If you wish 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 ryôkan at the end of the afternoon, as your 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 ryôkan.
Day 6 : The old capital
Traditional Japanese breakfast at the ryôkan.
Head to Hakone Yumoto station and then Odawara station to board one of the fastest trains in the world : the Shinkansen ! Shinkansen journey to Kyoto (direct, approx. 2h, including reserved tickets). We'll do our best to reserve seats for you so you can get a last look at Mount Fuji at the very beginning of the journey!
From noon onwards, you can settle into your traditional Japan Experience house where a Travel Angel will welcome you.
You have 3 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 lanes of Sannen-zaka & Ninnen-zaka ;
- Kôdai-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 7 p.m. 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.Day 7 : Gold and Silver Treasures
For your second day in Kyoto, we recommend the following itinerary:
- The Zen garden of Ryôan-ji ;
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) ;
- Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
- The enchanting Philosopher's Path ;
- Nanzen-ji temple.One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can accompany you on a tour of these iconic sites (available as an option, from 9am to 5pm).
Day 8 : Between temples and deer
For the last day in Kyoto and its surroundings, we recommend taking the 50 minute journey to Nara, included in your package.
Visit Nara, Japan's first fixed capital in the 8th century.
Discover :
- The Kasuga-taisha Shinto shrine and its thousands of lanterns ;
- Tôdai-ji, with its great bronze Buddha and the imposing Nan-Daimon gate ;
- Kôfuku-ji temple and its delightful pagoda.Return to Kyoto and stop to see the sunset at the Fushimi Inari-taisha, Kyoto's immense shrine of 10,000 torii.
If you wish to be accompanied on this day, one of our English-speaking guides will reveal all the secrets of Japan's first capital (optional).
Day 9 : Make way for history
After checking out of the Japan Experience house, head to Hiroshima by shinkansen (about 2 hours, free with your Japan Rail Pass).
Consider adding a stop in Himeji to marvel at its magnificent UNESCO-listed castle. Alternatively, embark on a day trip to Naoshima Island, a haven for contemporary art. No need to worry about lugging your bags around – our trusty travel angels can help you arrange same-day luggage transfer to your Hiroshima hotel!
Once you're arrived in Hiroshima, check into your 3* Intergate Hotel or same category hotel. Visit the park and the Peace memorial, the castle and its park full of cherry trees before tasting one of Hiroshima's specialities: okonomiyaki!
During the day, learn about the soul-stirring history of Hiroshima on our captivating historic bike tour. Take in all the moving stories and strong character traits that make this legendary city so memorable. With the help of a knowledgeable guide who will bring history to life with interesting anecdotes and insights, discover the layers of Hiroshima's past as you pedal through its iconic sites.
Day 10 : The Sacred Island
Breakfast at the hotel.
A short 30-minute train and boat journey to Miyajima Island, its Itsukushima-jinja shrine and the great Ôtorii gate built into the sea.
Take the cable car up to Mount Misen and then descend on foot. A breathtaking view of Hiroshima Bay awaits you!
Return to Hiroshima in the late afternoon.
Day 11 : The capital of Kyushu
Breakfast at the hotel.
From Hiroshima, head to the island of Kyushu and its capital, Fukuoka, just 1 hour away by shinkansen (included in the price of your tour).
Arrive in the centre of the vibrant city of Fukuoka and check into your hotel located near the central station.
With its 2000 years of history, the capital of Kyushu has always been the gateway to Asia (Korea and China) and Western culture (Portugal and its Jesuits, Holland). Another Japan, further away from Tokyo, awaits you.
Capital of a booming region, Fukuoka is now one of the most dynamic cities in Japan with its many high-tech companies and the hosting of a global event : the Rugby World Cup in October 2019.
In the afternoon, meet your English-speaking guide and explore Fukuoka's many iconic sites:
- Momochi district : Fukuoka Tower and other futuristic buildings - Japan in the 22nd century ;
- Canal City Hakata, a huge shopping center seamlessly integrates with a city park and charming canals ;
- Asian Art Museum, the world's first museum for modern Asian art ;
- Shôfoku-ji Temple, the oldest Zen temple in all of Japan ;
- Hakata Machiya, a captivating district lined with traditional merchants' houses.
In the evening, visit the lively Nakasu and Tenjin districts and their hundreds of delicious and welcoming open-air restaurants at low prices "yatai".Day 12 : Between sea and volcano
Fukuoka: your gateway to adventure!
Beyond the city lights, Fukuoka offers a wealth of experiences:
Beach Bliss: Bask on the sun-kissed shores of Itoshima or Karatsu, just a 45-minute escape from Fukuoka.
Historic Hideaways: Explore the charming town of Kumamoto (50 min by train) and its majestic castle, all nestled under the watchful gaze of Mount Aso.
Soak in Serenity: Unwind at the legendary Beppu hot springs (2hrs by train), boasting over 3,000 baths with unique mineral properties.
Nagasaki Delights: Journey back in time to Nagasaki (2hrs by train). Explore the Dejima island with its European flair, bustling Chinatown, and poignant Peace Park.
Most of these destinations are accessible with your Japan Rail Pass, for which this will be the last day.
In the evening, head back to Fukuoka.Day 13 : Arrival in the tropics
Transfer to Fukuoka International Airport (Japan's 4th largest airport, located in the heart of the city) in 5 minutes by metro from Hakata Central Station, see details below.
Take flight to Ishigaki Island! Choose a speedy direct flight (around 2 hours 20 minutes) or a slightly longer option with one stop (approximately 3 hours 20 minutes). Upon arrival in Ishigaki, catch a convenient airport bus (€4, payable to the driver) to the ferry terminal. Then, set sail on a scenic 45-minute boat ride (included in your package) to the wild beauty of Iriomote Island!
Arrival in the late afternoon and transfer (included in your package) to your 4* Hoshino Resort or same category hotel.
Iriomote Island, or Japan's last frontier, is 90% covered by rainforest and mangroves. In this unspoilt paradise far from Tokyo, you may see the endangered Yamaneko wild cat.
Dinner is available at your hotel or in the surrounding area.
Day 14 : The Amazon in Japan
Breakfast at the hotel.
Iriomote Island beckons with its untouched beauty. Lush rainforests, sun-kissed beaches, and vibrant coral reefs paint a picture of paradise.
Explore with Ease: Embark on a scenic 30-minute boat ride up the Urauchi River, venturing deep into the island's heart. Follow this with a refreshing 1-hour hike to a majestic waterfall. All this awaits right near your hotel!
Beach Bliss: Dive into relaxation on pristine beaches, just steps from your accommodation. One beach is perfect for snorkeling – equipment rentals are available for you to explore the underwater world.
Optional Adventure: For the adventurous soul, we offer an unforgettable canoeing excursion – an exhilarating way to discover hidden coves and untouched landscapes.
There, you will start discover another Japan, far from the crowded Tokyo or the temples of Kyoto!
Day 15 : Beach umbrellas and coconut trees
Breakfast at the hotel.
In the morning, soak up the sunshine and serenity by the pool at your Iriomote resort. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing 45-minute boat ride (tickets included) back to the vibrant main island of Ishigaki. Your comfortable 3* hotel awaits in the heart of this charming seaside town.
Day 16 : Sheltered from the waves
Breakfast at the hotel.
Ishigaki boasts pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and diving. Unwind on the shore or plunge into the vibrant underwater world.
Discuss a variety of exhilarating activities with your hotel upon arrival. Choose from guided diving adventures with English-speaking instructors, thrilling snorkeling excursions, and more!
Savor Ishigaki's renowned cuisine, a delicious blend of fresh island flavors. And when the sun sets, explore the island's charming nightlife scene.
Day 17 : A lovely village
Breakfast at the hotel.
Wrap up your Japanese adventure with a trip to Taketomi Island, a paradise just a 20-minute ferry ride from Ishigaki (ferries run every 15 minutes with 5 ferries per hour, tickets included).
Taketomi is a pedestrian and bicycle haven. Explore charming lanes and hidden corners on foot, or rent a bike (no need to book in advance) for a breezy adventure.
As night falls, witness a breathtaking phenomenon – the "Hoshizuna" starry sand. These bioluminescent wonders twinkle on the beach, creating a truly magical experience unique to Taketomi.
Day 18 : Sayonara, and see you next time!
Breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer back to Ishigaki International Airport : 20-minute taxi ride or airport shuttle bus (5€, to be paid on the spot to the driver, 2 buses per hour).
Return flight to Europe, North America, Australia, with changes in Tokyo, Fukuoka or major Asian cities like Hong Kong or Taipei.
Accommodation
- 4 nights in a 3* hotel in the heart of Tokyo, close to the metro.
- 1 night in a 3* ryôkan in Hakone Mount Fuji, traditional half-board
- 3 nights in a traditional Kyoto house (cleaning, bed linen/towels and tourist tax included)
- 2 nights in a 3* hotel in Hiroshima, close to train station
- 2 nights in a 3* hotel in Fukuoka, close to train station
- 2 nights in a 4* beach resort on Iriomote Island (Okinawa)
- 3 nights in a 3* hotel on Ishigaki Island (Okinawa)
The basic rate includes a twin room for two people.
Transport
- Airport transfer to Tokyo HND or NRT
- Prepaid public transport card
- Hakone Free pass for 2 days
- Japan Rail Pass 7 days
- Domestic flight from Fukuoka > Ishigaki
- Airport transfer to Ishigaki ISG
- Round trip by ferry from Ishigaki <> to Iriomote
- Round trip by ferry from Ishigaki <> to Taketomi
Experiences and meals
- Airport meet and greet
- Traditional dinner and breakfast included at the ryôkan in Hakone and Miyajima
- Discounts at many of Hakone tourist sites
- The breakfasts in Hiroshima, Iriomote and Ishigaki
- Welcome to Kyoto by a Travel Angel
- Night guided tour of Shinjuku, Tokyo and Gion, Kyoto
- Bike tour of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Included in your self-guided tour
Additional services
- Unlimited internet access with Pocket WiFi
- Complete digital travel guide sent before your departure
- Telephone assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in English and Japanese bilingual. The number will be given to you in your travel pack. This phone number is valid for telephone calls and also for Whatsapp.
Not included in the price of your trip
- Flights Europe <> Japan
- Optional insurance
- Personal expenses, including meals (breakfasts can sometimes be added as an option at your hotel reception, see details). For other meals, you will find addresses selected by us in your travel pack.
- Public transport once your transport cards have run out (see details)
- Everything not mentioned in the section "Included in your tour".
When you buy, Japan Experience offers you 2 types of protection:
Japan Experience Flex :
Cancellation insurance before departure under conditions.
Japan Experience Protect :
Pre-departure cancellation insurance under conditions and on-site assistance under conditions.
Frequently asked questions
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