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Grand Japan: The Lite Edition
Grand Japan: The Lite Edition
Private tour
jp
Tokyo
Kanazawa
Kyoto
2 more cities
Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima
13 days, 12 nights

Grand Japan: The Lite Edition

Discover Japan's cultural soul on this private tour designed for a relaxed yet enriching pace. Journey from Tokyo's imperial grandeur to Kyoto's golden temples, with memorable stops including the UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go village and Miyajima's floating shrine. The thoughtfully crafted itinerary balances guided exploration with free time for personal discovery. Ideal for travelers seeking an immersive introduction to Japan's traditions, history, and modern charm.
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from $3,845
Day by day
Places you explore
Recommended hotels
Landmarks & Experiences
day 1 Tokyo

Arrival
Welcome to Tokyo – a city where ultramodern skyscrapers and traditional temples coexist!

From Narita or Haneda Airports, you can easily reach the city center in several ways:

  • Narita Express (N’EX) – a fast train connecting the airport directly with major Tokyo stations; travel time is about 60 minutes.
  • Keisei Skyliner – a quick train to Keisei Ueno Station from Narita Airport, then transfer to local trains or subway to reach your hotel.
  • Tokyo Monorail – to Hamamatsucho Station from Haneda Airport, then transfer to local trains or subway to reach your hotel.
  • Keikyu Airport Line – direct train to Shinagawa Station from Haneda Airport, then transfer to local trains or subway.
  • Taxi – available at the terminal; travel time is usually 30–60 minutes depending on traffic.
  • Alternatively, you could book a private transfer with us, with a driver meeting you at the airport and taking you directly to your hotel.

Upon arrival, check in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax after your journey or start exploring the vibrant city on your own.

Breakfast included
Tokyo Dome Hotel
Tokyo Dome Hotel
1-3-61 Koraku, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to, JP, 112-8562
Twin, Non-Smoking, 9-22F(with breakfast/separate breakfast fee for 6 y/o and under)
1 room
Up to 4 guests
2 Twin Beds
33 m²
Breakfast included
More amenities
day 2 Tokyo

Best of Tokyo Tour
In the morning, you meet your private guide and start your first half-day tour of Tokyo. 

First, you see from the outside the incredible Imperial Palace to get a taste of Japanese culture. Notably, The Imperial Palace has served as the residential place of successive Emperors since 1868.

Then you have a visit to the Tokyo Sky Tree, a television broadcasting tower, and the tallest structure in Japan. Its observation decks offering spectacular views over Tokyo are the highlights of the tower. You visit the deck located at the height of 350 meters (1148 feet), so make sure to have your camera and phone charged!

After that, you will visit Asakusa Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo, and learn the legend of how this temple was built. The temple is known to bring good luck in almost anything, so make sure to make a wish! Here you can feel the traditional Japanese culture the moment you step onto the temple grounds. After the tour, you return to your hotel.

Morning
5h
Private tour
Best of Tokyo
Best of Tokyo
day 3 Tokyo

Hakone & Mt Fuji Exploration
Escape from Tokyo and immerse yourself in Japan's natural wonders with a full-day group tour of Mt. Fuji and Hakone. Ascend to the 5th station of Mt. Fuji, 2,000 meters above sea level, and enjoy a buffet-style lunch with stunning views of this World Heritage site.

Continue your journey with a serene Lake Ashi cruise, offering picturesque views, and traverse the Owakudani Valley via a ropeway, embracing its geothermal wonders. End your adventure at the revered Hakone Shrine, with its iconic Torii gate seemingly floating on water.

Throughout your full-day expedition, you'll be transported in comfort by an air-conditioned coach, ensuring your travels are as seamless as they are breathtaking.

11h
Group tour (up to 40 people)
Hakone and Mt Fuji Exploration
Hakone and Mt Fuji Exploration
day 4 Tokyo

Departure
After check-out, it’s time to continue your journey by bullet train!

You can reach the train station on your own using the subway, local trains, a taxi - whichever option is most convenient and comfortable for you.

Tokyo Dome Hotel
Address
1-3-61 Koraku, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to, JP, 112-8562
Train
10:48 AMTokyo
01:19 PMKanazawa
Tokyo Station
Travel time 2h 31mEconomy Class Seat
Kanazawa station
day 4 Kanazawa

Arrival in Kanazawa

Arriving in Kanazawa, you’ll discover a city known for its beautifully preserved samurai districts, elegant gardens, and rich cultural heritage.

From the train station, you can easily reach your hotel by local bus or taxi.

After check-in, take some time to relax or head out to explore Kanazawa’s atmospheric streets, traditional teahouse districts, and renowned gardens at your own pace.

Breakfast included
Hotel Nikko Kanazawa
Hotel Nikko Kanazawa
2-15-1 Honmachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, JP, 920-0853
Comfort Double Room, Non Smoking (22sqm)
1 room
Up to 2 guests
1 Double Bed
22 m²
Breakfast included
More amenities
day 5 Kanazawa

Shirakawa-go Heritage Tour

Depart Kanazawa in the morning by bus and journey into the heart of the Japanese Alps, where the historic village of Shirakawa-go awaits. Nestled in a secluded mountain valley, this UNESCO World Heritage site is celebrated for its traditional Gassho-zukuri farmhouses—masterfully constructed with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy winter snow.

Upon arrival, explore the enchanting village with your guide, learning how this once-isolated community developed a unique way of life in harmony with nature. Visit preserved homes such as the impressive Wada House, where centuries of craftsmanship and rural traditions come to life. Take in panoramic views from the Shiroyama Observation Deck, offering a postcard-perfect perspective of the village below.

As you stroll through Shirakawa-go’s quiet lanes, absorb the serene atmosphere, snap timeless photos, and browse local shops offering handmade crafts and regional specialties.

After your immersive visit, relax on the scenic return drive to Kanazawa. 

Morning
Full day
Private tour
Shirakawa-go Heritage Tour
Shirakawa-go Heritage Tour
day 6 Kanazawa

Departure

After check-out, you will continue your journey by train from Kanazawa Station to Kyoto.

You can reach the station by local bus or taxi. From Kanazawa Station, board the JR Limited Express Thunderbird for your direct connection to Kyoto.

Hotel Nikko Kanazawa
Address
2-15-1 Honmachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, JP, 920-0853
Train
Kanazawa
Kyoto
Kanazawa Train Station
Travel time 2h 15m2nd Class Seat
Kyoto Train Station

Description for connection

1 layover at Tsuruga
day 6 Kyoto

Arrival in Kyoto

Arriving in Kyoto, you’ll step into a city where ancient traditions and serene beauty meet everyday life.

From the train station, getting to your hotel is simple—you can take the subway, a local train, or a taxi.

After check-in, unwind from your journey or start exploring Kyoto’s charming streets, historic temples, and peaceful gardens at your own pace.

Breakfast included
Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA 
Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA 
44-1, Kamitonodacho, Higashikujo, Minami-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto, JP, 601-8002
Moderate Room with Twin Beds
1 room
Up to 2 guests
2 Twin Beds
22 m²
Breakfast not included
More amenities
day 7 Kyoto

Kyoto City Exploration
Begin your day with a guided group tour, immersing yourself in Kyoto’s illustrious past and its world-renowned landmarks. Visit the resplendent Kinkaku-ji Temple, an iconic structure covered in shimmering gold leaf and rich history.

Continue to the Kyoto Imperial Palace, where stories of ancient emperors and refined court life come alive, offering a rare glimpse into Japan’s imperial heritage.

Throughout the tour, you’ll explore scenic vistas and historic treasures that capture the timeless essence of Kyoto’s extraordinary cityscape.


Morning
5h
Group tour
Kyoto City Exploration
Kyoto City Exploration
day 8 Kyoto

Nara Serenity Tour

Your journey begins at the awe-inspiring Todai-ji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue—an impressive feat of ancient craftsmanship and spiritual significance. From there, stroll through the peaceful expanse of Nara Park, where friendly Sika deer roam freely, creating an unforgettable connection with nature.

Next, visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the Nara Period, renowned for its hundreds of stone and bronze lanterns. This sacred site provides a serene atmosphere that invites reflection and appreciation of Japan’s cultural heritage.

Finally, cap off your tour with a visit to Nara Nagomikan, one of the region’s finest souvenir shops, offering authentic local goods and mementoes to remember your unforgettable experience in Nara.

Afternoon
6h
Group tour
Nara Serenity Tour
Nara Serenity Tour
day 9 Kyoto

Departure

In the morning, after check-out, you will continue your journey to Osaka by train.

You can reach the train station using local trains, subway, or a taxi, and then board your train to Osaka at your convenience.

Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA 
Address
44-1, Kamitonodacho, Higashikujo, Minami-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto, JP, 601-8002
Train
Kyoto
Osaka
Travel time 15m2nd Class Seat
day 9 Osaka

Arrival 

Welcome to Osaka, a city buzzing with energy, street food delights, and vibrant neighborhoods!

From the train station, it’s easy to get to your hotel—take the subway, a local train, or a taxi, whichever suits you best.

Once you’ve checked in, take some time to unwind or step out and start exploring the city’s lively streets, bustling markets, and iconic sights at your own pace.

Breakfast included
Citadines Namba Osaka
Citadines Namba Osaka
3-5-25 Nippombashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka, JP
Deluxe Twin Room
1 room
Up to 3 guests
2 Twin Beds
31 m²
Breakfast not included
More amenities
day 10 Osaka

Osaka City Exploration
Uncover the vibrant essence of Osaka with an immersive walking adventure that brings together the city’s rich history, dynamic culture, and stunning architecture. Begin exploring the trendy yet nostalgic district of Amerikamura (American Village), where eclectic street fashion meets retro charm. From there, we’ll venture to the bustling Namba & Dotonbori neighbourhood, where neon lights, colourful signs, and delicious street food await at every corner.

Next, visit the tranquil Hozenji Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary nestled amidst the modern chaos of Dotonbori. Stroll through Kuromon Ichiba Market, a haven for food lovers, where the freshest seafood and local delicacies abound.

Continue your walk through the lively entertainment district of Shinsekai, where you'll feel the old-school charm of Osaka, and marvel at the grandeur of Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, offering sweeping views of the city.

Morning
5h
Group tour
Osaka City Exploration
Osaka City Exploration
day 11 Osaka

Departure

In the morning, after check-out, you will continue your journey by train to Hiroshima.

You can make your way to the train station using the subway, local trains, or a taxi, depending on what is most convenient for you, before boarding your onward train.

Citadines Namba Osaka
Address
3-5-25 Nippombashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka, JP
Train
11:41 AMOsaka
01:02 PMHiroshima
Shin-Osaka Station
Travel time 1h 21mEconomy Class Seat
Hiroshima Station
day 11 Hiroshima

Arrival
Upon arrival in Hiroshima, your private driver takes you to your centrally located hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free.

Breakfast included
Mitsui Garden Hotel Hiroshima
Mitsui Garden Hotel Hiroshima
9-12 NakaMachi Naka-Ku, Hiroshima, Hiroshima-ken, JP, 730-0037
Standard , 1 bed Single, Non Smoking
2 rooms
Up to 1 guest
1 Large Twin Bed
15 m²
Breakfast not included
More amenities
day 12 Hiroshima

Hiroshima City Tour with Miyajima Island
After breakfast at your hotel you are met by your private guide and go for an exciting tour of Hiroshima city. Here you visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park located in the area that used to be the political and commercial heart of the city, before the bomb. The main site at the park is the Peace Memorial Museum that focuses on the events of August 6: the dropping of the bomb and its outcome in human suffering. The exposition serves as a reminder that peace should not be taken for granted. The A-Bomb Dome, also known as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, is what remains of the former Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, it was one of the few buildings to remain standing when the bomb exploded. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the A-Bomb Dome today is a tangible link to Hiroshima's unique past.

After some time for lunch, together with your guide you take a ferry to Miyajima Island. The island is officially named Itsukushima, but more popularly known as Miyajima, literally "shrine island"; in Japanese, thanks to its most important attraction - the centuries-old Itsukushima Shrine. The shrine and its torii gate are unique for being built over water, as if floating in the sea during high tide.

After the tour you return back to your hotel.

Morning
6h
Private tour
Hiroshima City Tour and Miyajima Island
Hiroshima City Tour and Miyajima Island
day 13 Hiroshima

Departure

This is the final day of your unforgettable journey through Japan.

You can reach Hiroshima Airport in several ways:

  • Airport Limousine Bus – a direct and convenient service departing from Hiroshima Station, reaching the airport in approximately 45–55 minutes.
  • Taxi – available throughout the city; travel time is usually 45–60 minutes depending on traffic.
  • Alternatively, you could book a private transfer with us, with a driver meeting you at your hotel and taking you directly to the airport.

We wish you a pleasant flight home and look forward to assisting you with your future travels!

Mitsui Garden Hotel Hiroshima
Address
9-12 NakaMachi Naka-Ku, Hiroshima, Hiroshima-ken, JP, 730-0037

What's included

Exceptional downtown hotel accommodations
Guided sightseeing tours with expert English-speaking guides
Delicious breakfasts at your hotels
Entrances to Tokyo Imperial Palace, Tokyo Sky Tree and more
Entrances to Tokyo Imperial Palace, Tokyo Sky Tree and more
Tickets and intercity transportation as per itinerary
Professional meeting services at the airport
Dedicated support team before and during your trip

Reviews

As you prepare for your travels, we proudly highlight our 99.8% customer satisfaction rate. Below are reviews from travelers who have enjoyed our award-winning service. Thank you for choosing us—your extraordinary journey awaits!
4.90 / 5
Excellent
1.5k+ Reviews
This was a dream trip for me, and they helped make it a dream come true.
The guides Firebird works with are top-notch.
We had a “trip of a lifetime,” thanks to Firebird.
I was extremely pleased with Firebird's personalized service.
jpTokyo
3 nights
jpKanazawa
2 nights
jpKyoto
3 nights
jpOsaka
2 nights
jpHiroshima
2 nights