Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo; Airport Pick-up
Welcome to Japan! Upon landing at Tokyo’s Narita Airport or Haneda Airport, go directly to the arrival hall and you will meet our enthusiastic and helpful English-speaking assistant, who will usher you to board the shared shuttle to take your family to the hotel. Have a good rest at the hotel carefully selected by our picky accommodation experts, and get ready for your wonderful family tour to Japan.
Accommodation: Hotel Century Southern Tower (4 stars) in Tokyo
★ Tips from Insiders: 1. Vehicle Upgrade upon Request: If you travel with more family members or more luggage, just contact us to pay extra for the airport-hotel transfer service by private car with driver. 2. Exquisite hotel facilities with rooms above the 22nd floor offering wonderful views. 3. Convenient location of the hotel diagonally across from the Exit A1 of Shinjuku Station, and just a 10-minute walk from the lively alley Omoide Yokocho, a great place for dining and nightlife.
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Day 2: Tokyo: Meiji Jingu Shrine, Senso-ji Temple, Sushi Making Class, Odaiba
Japanese Sushi Our guide will be waiting for you in the lobby after breakfast. We will start with the Meiji Jingu Shrine to experience the long and profound Shinto history of Japan. Delve into the main hall surrounded by dense forest. At the sink in front of the hall, the guide will show you how to wash your hands properly in Shinto style before entering for a visit. We’ll have a good chance of seeing a traditional Japanese wedding held here – quiet and solemn, without cheer and laughter – very different from what you might have encountered from other countries and cultures. ► Tip: Comfortable walking shoes are essential! As you enter through the iconic torii gate and step onto the rustling gravel-paved worship paths, prepare for a long and challenging walk. Many attractions in Japan require long walks, so be sure to pack a good pair of shoes. Next, we’ll explore the Asakusa area. Go through the Kaminarimon Gate and you will witness Nakamise-dori Street, Tokyo’s busiest street, packed with shops selling snacks and handicrafts, as well as visitors from all over the world who come to worship at the Senso-ji Temple. This 1,400-year-old temple is not as solemn as your stereotypical Buddhist temple, but full of interactive and entertaining experiences. Walk all the way from the main entrance to the incense burner in front of the hall. You can burn incense for good luck, bathe your hands in the sacred smoke, which is said to ward off illnesses, or, like the locals, draw an Omikuji fortune slip to bless your family. Our guide will also take you to see the towering Tokyo Skytree from a nearby alley. ★ Sushi Making Class – Beginning of Japan CookingAt noon, visit the Tsukiji Outer Market, a culinary paradise. You’ll have a great opportunity not only to taste the food, but also to learn step by step how to make sushi from a sushi master. Enjoy your fresh handmade sushi for lunch. Tokyo is not just old. In the afternoon, we’ll see another side of it. Go to Odaiba to visit the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, an eye-opening establishment of Japanese ingenuity and technology. Here you will gain natural knowledge about the Earth, new technology displays, and many environmental protection related exhibits. The cutting-edge science and technology is presented in cleverly designed models and virtual experiences. The treasure of the museum, the ‘Geo-Cosmos’, which is a giant suspended sphere with about a million LED displays embedded on its surface, is bound to amaze you. ► If you visit on Tuesday when the museum is closed, we’ll arrange the Marine Science Museum instead. Next, enjoy a walk along the Odaiba Seaside Park to see the miniature Statue of Liberty and the magnificent Rainbow Bridge across the Tokyo Bay. If you like, stay until it gets dark to admire the night view before our guide accompanies you back to your hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Hotel Century Southern Tower (4 stars) in Tokyo
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Day 3: Tokyo to Kamakura: Visit Great Buddha & Enoshima Island
In the morning, our guide will pick you up from your hotel and accompany you on a 1-hour train ride to Kamakura, a seaside treasure town not far south of Tokyo. It’s not as crowded as Tokyo, suitable for slow, leisurely travel. Upon arrival, we will first walk down the lively Komachi-dori Street leading to the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, the most important shrine in Kamakura, which has existed for nearly a thousand years and is dedicated to three deities: Emperor Ojin (aka Hachiman, kami of archery and war), his wife Hime-gami, and his mother Empress Jingu. Here, you can learn about the traditional bushido spirit, which is deeply admired in Japan. Admire Great Buddha of Kamakura in Kotoku-inThe next comes the highlight of the day, the Kotoku-in Temple famous for the Great Buddha of Kamakura, which is considered a national treasure of Japan. The 11.3-meter-high (37-foot-high) bronze statue of Buddha embodies the cultural heritage of Kamakura, which began to serve as a political and Buddhist center in the 12th century. The temple was once destroyed by a tsunami, so the original main hall is no longer visible. Only the Buddha statue has been restored. You can see the black part on the Buddha’s chest, which marks the horrible height of the tide at that time. Pilgrimage for the Classical Manga ‘Slam Dunk’Next, let’s take a slow train ride along the Enoshima Electric Railway running along the shoreline, which is said to be a romantic must-do for the local young lovers. The train takes you to the Kamakurakoko-Mae Station and Shichirigahama Beach, popular spots for fans of the basketball-themed anime ‘Slam Dunk’, where you can see exactly the same scene as in the manga - a retro train against the backdrop of the Shonan Coast. Even if you’re not a manga fan, this train ride is truly a special experience, with nice views of the beach and close to the local neighborhoods. Along the track, you can see typical Japanese houses and even reach the plants outside their fences. Strolling across the sea bridge to the Enoshima Island, you’ll be drawn to the lively Benzaiten Nakamise-dori Street, lined with stalls selling a variety of snacks and souvenirs. Ascend slowly visit the Enoshima Jinja Shrine built on a hill. If your physical strength allows, climb to the top of the hill to enjoy the incredible sea view of the Sagami Bay, and even see the Mount Fuji on a clear day. Finally, our guide will escort you back to your hotel in Tokyo. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel Century Southern Tower (4 stars) in Tokyo
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► No guided tour for the day. To accommodate your individual needs, we have included a free day for you in Tokyo. If you do not need this free day, please let us know. Our itineraries are fully customizable to meet your needs. Self-guided Tokyo Disneyland Tour for Your Reference:Tokyo Disneyland is a great choice if you are a family with children. If you decide to go, we can help you book 1-Day Passport(s), and you just need to manage your own transportation back and forth. There are Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. Disneyland offers fewer thrilling rides and is more suitable for younger children. ► How to Get There: 50 minutes and USD 3.2 per person by rail transit. Walk 5 minutes north from your hotel to Shinjuku Station to take the Chuo Line for 4 stops to Tokyo Station, walk 4 minutes south to change to the Keiyo Line for another 6 stops to Maihama Station, which is 5 minutes’ walk to the entrance of the Disneyland. ► Opening Hours: 9:00 to 22:00 on weekdays; 8:00 to 22:00 on Saturday and Sunday. Daytime parade ‘Dreaming Up!’ at 13:00. Firework show ‘Disney Light the Night’ at 20:40. Tokyo Disneyland
Tokyo Disneyland
Tips:1. Better avoid weekends and holidays as the parks can get very crowded. Contact our travel consultants to adjust your schedule accordingly, and leave the free day on a working day. 2. The 1-Day Passport allows only one entry to either Disneyland or DisneySea. If you wish to visit both parks, please contact us to extend your trip by one day and purchase a 2-Day Passport. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel Century Southern Tower (4 stars) in Tokyo
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Day 5: Mt. Fuji Sightseeing: Lake Kawaguchi Cruise & Ropeway
Today will be the highlight of your Japan tour, as we’ll embark on a pilgrimage to the Mount Fuji, one of the largest active volcanoes in the world and a symbol of Japan. In the morning, our private guide will pick you up from your hotel and whisk you away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo for a remarkable day out. Take a 2-hour express bus ride from Shinjuku to the Lake Kawaguchi, the best place to view the Mount Fuji. ★ You Will Enjoy:1. Secret Photo Locations: Our veteran guide, who visits here more than 100 times a year, will take you on a lakeside walk and point out some of the best photo spots. 2. Mount Fuji Panorama Ropeway: We have generously included this ropeway, making it easy for you to go up to the Fujimidai Station near the peak of the Mount Tenjo, where there is an observation platform with stunning views of the Mount Fuji and the Lake Kawaguchi below. 3. Lake Kawaguchi Cruise: Be treated to a relaxing 20-minute cruise on a pirate ship. Feel the cool wind through your fingertips and hair, and enjoy the snow-capped Mount Fuji from different angles. ★ Bonus for Our Guests:During the cherry blossom time in spring and red leaf month in autumn, if time permits, we could take you to the Arakurayama Sengen Park (15 minutes by taxi), where it requires 15 minutes to climb the steps up the mountain to the five-storied Chureito Pagoda, which offers you a rewarding scene of the pagoda and the flowers or leaves that perfectly frame the Mount Fuji. Finally, the guide will accompany you on an express bus back to Tokyo for the night. ★ Unique Service: Flexible Date to Visit Mt. FujiRain and overcast skies are common in the Fuji area, and you may not be able to see the mountain on your scheduled visit day. Our considerate service solves this problem by allowing you to discuss with our guide to adjust the visiting order and choose a clear day to visit the Mt. Fuji during your stay in Tokyo from the 2nd to 5th day. ► Things to Know: 1. Just let us know whether you prefer a fixed date or a flexible date to visit Mt. Fuji. For a flexible date, the round-trip direct express bus is not available as the bus tickets need to be booked one month in advance. This option requires some patience - a 2 to 3 hours’ non-reserved train ride with a transfer and possibly no seats. 2. We’ll try our best to arrange your Fuji visit on a clear day, but please understand that this is not a promise. Even if you change the date, you may not be able to see the mountain clearly due to the changeable weather .Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel Century Southern Tower (4 stars) in Tokyo
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Day 6: Tokyo to Kyoto: Visit Pure Water Temple & Gion
Tokyo-Kyoto Train Travel on Your Own (tickets reserved and included): After breakfast, get ready to embark on an intercity trip! Please pack up and check out one hour earlier than the departure time of the train. Walk 7 minutes north from the hotel to Shinjuku Station, take the Chuo Line for 13 minutes (4 stops) to Tokyo Station. Find the platform for Tokaido-Sanyo bullet train. A lightning-fast ride would let you know what Japanese speed is. From Tokyo to Kyoto, the 450 km (280 mi) journey can be completed in just 2 hour and 15 minutes. Kyoto Essential Tour to Pure Water Temple & GionOur Kyoto guide will greet your family at the train station and escort you to the hotel to drop off your luggage. Admire the Kyoto Tower just outside the train station, and then we’ll visit the Pure Water Temple, named for the clear water flowing from the Otowa Waterfall in the temple. There are three clear springs representing longevity, wisdom and health. Use the long-handled spoon provided by the temple to catch the water for drink. Remember to choose only one spring water to take a sip to achieve your wish, or the wish-granting deity might consider you too greedy. It’s said the temple originated from a dream of a monk 1,200 years ago. He was asked in the dream by the goddess Kannon to practice Buddhism in Mount Otowa, where a golden fall flowed. As he arrived at the place in reality, he found all the said was true and a strange Buddhist waiting there. After presenting the monk a piece of wood, the Buddhist, who turned out to be an incarnation of the goddess, vanished. Out of the wood, the monk carved a statue of the goddess and built a temple to worship her. This temple is none other than the predecessor of the Pure Water Temple, and the golden fall the Otowa Waterfall you get to drink. In addition to granting those wishes, the temple is actually a haunt mainly for newlyweds, who come here to worship the mother figure of Kannon for pregnancy. Head to the Hondo Main Hall above the waterfall to capture a commanding view of Kyoto from the huge wooden veranda hanging in front of the hall. Outside the temple, we’ll pass the long rolling ramps of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, lined with traditional wooden houses selling specialty foods and souvenirs. Sannenzaka also bears blessings for peaceful delivery and often leads pregnant women to the temple! Take nice shots at the five-story Yasaka Pagoda and visit the Yasaka Shrine before we arrive at the Gion geisha district. Here, you may come across geishas and maikos walking past the Hanamikoji Street in traditional kimonos, classic hairstyles and elaborate makeup. ► Tip: This walking tour includes many ramps and steps that are not suitable for strollers, so if you are traveling with very young children, prepare in advance or take detours as suggested by our guide. Pure Water Temple
Local Japanese
★ Travel Different: Ninja-Samurai Experience for Kids & FamiliesAt Gion, the guide will take you to a dojo for a unique Japanese activity – a hands-on experience of the mysterious samurai and ninja culture. Take this rare opportunity to try on the warrior armor and discover a variety of samurai weapons. Learn about the world of samurais and ninjas through the staff’s commentary. Hold an ancient sword, learn how to move it from a professional teacher, practice ninja meditation and breathing, learn to use a ninja blowgun, and participate in a fun ninja star throw competition. Children’s active nature would be encouraged during the training, while the adults could learn Bushido philosophy and ways to calm their minds. Afterwards, the guide will escort you back to your hotel, or if you would like to stay longer to take in the night view of Gion, just enjoy free time and then take a 10-minute taxi back to the hotel on your own. ► Recommended Restaurant: Teppan Tavern Tenamonya At the southwest corner out of Yasaka Shrine, right to the majestic west gate and left to the south gate, Teppan Tavern Tenamonya is a hot restaurant with teppanyaki, okonomiyaki, etc. on the basement floor. Japanese beef steak, teppanyaki of shrimps & octopuses, and more dishes are quite ingenious and palatable, with a mass of drinks as well. It’s closed on Thursdays, and it would be closed earlier if the dishes are fresh out probably. You may have a meal there at a price of JPY 3,000-4,000 (USD 19-26). Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto (4 stars) Sannenzaka Alleyway
Japanese Geishas
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Day 7: Kyoto Highlights: Golden Pavilion, Nijo Castle, Fushimi Inari Shrine
Fushimi Inari Shrine After breakfast, our guide will pick you up from your hotel to begin our exploration of the ancient capital. Our first destination would be the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, a historic temple dating back to 1397 AD. Not only will you have the chance to see the Golden Pavilion reflected in the pond, but you can also listen to our guide’s excellent narration of the interesting folk stories. The Golden Pavilion was burned down by a Buddhist monk in 1950, an arson that shocked the nation. The ugly monk, jealous of the beauty of the Golden Pavilion, believed that adding tragic colors to such a beautiful scene would be more impressive, so he deliberately set a fire. The pavilion we see today is a reconstruction completed in 1955. The monk once attempted to commit seppuku but was saved. What happened to him later? Come with us to find out. Next, our guide will take you to visit the Nijo Castle. Take a look at the classical architecture, which was built in 1603 AD, especially the Ninomaru Goten (Second Palace), which is a national treasure. We have included an additional tour of the palace interior, where you would marvel at the legendary 'nightingale floors', which will make chirping sounds when stepped on, in order to immediately detect eavesdropping or assassins. Around noon, we will visit the 400-year-old Nishiki Market, where the delicate and tasty Japanese snacks are sure to delight you. The guide will leave you some time, and if you like, you can try dango (dumplings), matcha icecream, tempura, croquette, or other local food. Please prepare some change in advance, as cash is more convenient here. In the afternoon, let’s explore the Fushimi Inari Shrine, an important mountainside Shinto shrine built in the 8th century, even before the capital’s move to Kyoto! Follow the guide to walk through thousands of vermillion torii gates on the trail behind the shrine that leads up to the sacred Mount Inari, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a perfect movie set. Curious about the various fox statues in the shrine? The fox is believed to be the messenger of Inari, the Japanese god of rice. Our knowledgeable guide will explain the allusions behind these monuments for you in detail. Finally, the guide will accompany you back to your hotel. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto (4 stars)
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Day 8: Visit Arashiyama & Kyoto Railway Museum
Kyoto Railway Museum In the morning, our guide will accompany you from the hotel to a 20-minute train journey to Arashiyama. We’ll go directly to the boarding point of Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari), from which you will take a 2-hour exciting cruise from Kameoka to Arashiyama. With an experienced boatman at the helm, you’ll navigate through the green valleys with picturesque scenery. See the Katsura River Bridge, Hozukyo Gorge, and Mt. Ogura from the boat, and you might encounter the cute little red train running onshore along the Sagano Scenic Railway. After disembarking, take a stroll into the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest to discover little-known beauty. If you like, try a short rickshaw ride at your own expense, which would take you to the secluded riverbank paths and deep into the verdant bamboo forest. Next, our guide will lead you to go across the Togetsu-kyo Bridge and explore the Monkey Park Iwatayama. It is an easy climb up to the platform atop the Mt. Arashiyama, where you can enjoy interacting with the wild monkeys. The view above is incredible and it would be super fun to feed the monkeys their favorite apples and peanuts. Afterwards, we’ll return to downtown Kyoto. ★ Have Fun at Kyoto Railway MuseumIn the afternoon, the guide will take you on a tour of the Kyoto Railway Museum, the largest railway museum in Japan and the best place for family travel acclaimed by our experts, for its comprehensive displays and rich interactive experiences. Both children and adults will be fascinated when seeing such an extensive collection of models and real trains on the ground floor, spanning from traditional steam locomotives to modern bullet trains. Explore the intricacies of these remarkable machines, examining every detail from the roof to the undercarriage. Venture to the second floor, where a wealth of interactive facilities awaits. Engage with meticulously designed simulation rooms, and try everything from driving a train to vehicle scheduling management, which is difficult to acquire elsewhere. From curious four-year-olds to inquisitive teenagers and even adults, everyone can participate in the fun activities, learn about the evolution of the railway, see the internal workings of a train, and understand the technology and safety of the railway. Go for it, ride on a real vintage steam locomotive, or enter the cockpit of a bullet train to experience the novelty and joy of being a train driver. The best surprise is that you can also see the wonderful performance of the locomotives parading into the roundhouse. Climb up to the observation deck on the third floor to see the bullet train lines in action and get a panoramic view of Kyoto. Finally, our guide will escort you back to the hotel. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto (4 stars) Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Kyoto Railway Museum
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Day 9: Kyoto to Nara: Feed Deer & Visit Naramachi Lattice House
In the morning, our guide will pick you up from the hotel lobby for a train ride to Nara in one hour. We’ll have a relaxing time in the Nara Park. In addition to visiting the cultural heritage sites in the park, you’ll enjoy a kid-friendly experience of playing with the deer. The tame deer are the masters here, and their graceful figures can be seen everywhere. You can feed them with some little crackers, which are their favorite. Please keep an eye on your children, though, as these deer can occasionally bite! Try to feed a deer that walk alone and avoid taking out your crackers among a herd. Visit the time-honored Kofuku-ji Temple to appreciate its well-preserved Buddhist architecture and a national treasure hall. Next, enjoy a quiet moment in the Isuien Garden, whose name literally means ‘garden built on water’. Take a pleasant walk in this garden carefully planned around a pond, bask in the sun, breathe in the fresh air, and get completely relaxed in the green world. There is a small museum inside the garden, with bronze ware, mirrors, seals and pottery from ancient China and Korea. Later, head to the Great Eastern Temple dating back to the mid-8th century, where you’ll be struck by the grandness of its Great Buddha Hall housing the giant bronze Buddha statue. Walk along the worshiping path lined with stone lanterns to the Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Our guests will be allowed to enter through the special passage that leads to the dimly lit main hall. Illuminated solely by the gentle glow of lanterns, this sanctuary exudes an aura of tranquility and mystique. Feed Deer in Nara Park
Naramachi Lattice House
In the afternoon, we will walk around Naramachi to feel the local life atmosphere. Follow our guide to stop at the Goryo Shrine for a simple visit, and then hike down a secret path to the Naramachi Lattice House, a lovely and rarely visited authentic Japanese residence. This perfect replica of an Edo-era Machiya house is a great place to take photos. Before dark, we will take the train back Kyoto for the night. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto (4 stars)
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Day 10: Kyoto to Hiroshima: Itsukushima Shrine, Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Park
Kyoto-Hiroshima Train Travel on Your Own (tickets reserved and included): Please pack up, check out, and leave your hotel half an hour ahead of the departure time of the train. Walk 8 minutes east to Kyoto Station for the bullet train running to Hiroshima in 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, our Hiroshima guide will greet you at the train station. After leaving your luggage in the hotel, you’ll be escorted to the Miyajimaguchi Pier for a boat trip to the picturesque Miyajima Island, enjoying the magnificent sea views along the way. Within 10 minutes, you’ll find yourself awestruck when you see the iconic giant red torii gate floating on the sea, which is the symbol of the World Heritage site Itsukushima Shrine and marks the gateway to a realm of spiritual enlightenment. Once ashore, stroll along the coastline to admire the huge torii from different angles and take photos. At low tide, you can even walk under the torii gate to feel the sheer enormity of this 55-foot-tall, 60-ton behemoth. Visit the seaside palaces dedicated to the three sea gods in ancient Japanese legend, and share your path with gentle wild deer when you leisurely stroll through the serene grounds. At noon, we will return to downtown Hiroshima. Itsukushima Shrine
Atomic Bomb Dome
★ World War II History for Kids: Visit Atomic Bombing SiteThis afternoon will present an opportunity to impart a crucial peace education lesson for your children at the Atomic Bomb Dome, which is the remains of the Industrial Promotion Hall destroyed by the poignant atomic bomb on August 6, 1945. From the staggering wreckage, you can imagine the devastating power of the bombing, which flattened almost all of Hiroshima, except for the lucky dome. Here, some survivors of the tragedy occasionally share details about the horrible attack. Looking at their firsthand testimonies, you could glimpse into the unimaginable horrors they suffered. Next, cross the bridge spanning the Motoyasu River, with gurgling water carrying away the fragments of the past yet unable to erase the painful memories. We’ll then arrive at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Pay your respects before the memorial monuments erected in remembrance of those who perished in the atomic bombing. Finally, proceed to the Peace Memorial Museum to see the photographs and exhibits that record the horrors of that time. Despite the potential half-hour wait, the museum’s exhibits offer an invaluable and deeply moving experience. Moreover, the guest book here is also thought-provoking. The messages left by visitors from around the world express a profound sense of compassion and a fervent desire for peace. The tragedy of Hiroshima, which evokes deep grief, should also serve as a catalyst for introspection for Japan to reflect on why the atomic bomb was dropped. Let us join together in prayer and unite in our ultimate common pursuit of peace. Finally, our guide will accompany you back to your hotel in Hiroshima. ► Recommended Local Food: The Hiroshimayaki served at the famous restaurant Nagataya is worth trying. This mixture of noodles, vegetables and meat pan-fried on an iron plate will delight your taste buds. ► Recommended Restaurant: Nagataya It can never be missed when coming to Hiroshima. Close to the Atomic Bomb Dome and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, it is at the eastern end of the bridge between them. Multiple okonomiyaki of great value, with local snacks as well as drinks, are offered to satisfy your stomach. The signature okonomiyaki of Nagataya is fried with pork, egg, shrimps, squid, green onions, and the local noodles, while more okonomiyaki of different ingredients are also beloved. It is affordable at the price of JPY 1,000-2,000 (USD 6-13), but it’s closed on Tuesdays & the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Daiwa Roynet Hotel Hiroshima-ekimae (4 stars)
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Day 11: Hiroshima to Osaka: Osaka Castle, Aquarium Kaiyukan, Dotonbori
Hiroshima-Osaka Train Travel on Your Own (tickets reserved and included): After breakfast, please pack up and check out. Leave your hotel half an hour in advance and walk 5 minutes southeast to Hiroshima Station. Take the bullet train to reach Osaka in 1.5 hours. Our guide will greet you at the train station, making the beginning of an enriching Osaka adventure. First, immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Osaka Castle, which bears the city’s enduring history and legacy. Next, we will head to the Osaka Port, where the city’s dynamic spirit and maritime heritage come alive. Take in the broad view of the Osaka Bay as you stroll along the seaside promenade, and then visit the nearby Aquarium Kaiyukan. ★ Fun for Kids: Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan & Tempozan Ferris WheelIn the afternoon, delve into the wonders of the underwater world at the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, the world’s largest indoor aquarium. Going through a tunnel-shaped entrance, prepare to be amazed by different tanks, which reproduce the diverse marine ecosystems of the mysterious Pacific Rim, which is home to colorful fish and various forms of marine life. We will definitely go to the central tank to witness the giant whale shark, the aquarium’s star attraction and the world’s largest fish. After a rewarding experience in the aquarium, ascending to new heights on the Tempozan Ferris Wheel would be exciting for your kids. Let your gaze sweep across the panoramic vista unfolding gradually as the Ferris wheel carries you up. Capture the vibrant cityscape in warm glows, a sight that will forever be etched in your memory. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Dotonbori at Night
Later, our guide will take you to Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi, bustling commercial blocks that pulsate with the electrifying energy of modern Osaka. You can choose to be sent back to the hotel, or our guide would leave you free time here as you may wish to stay longer. The streets along the Dotonbori River become a dazzling spectacle of neon lights as the afternoon fades into twilight. You’ll be captivated by a variety of illuminated billboards. Venture into the heart of Dotonbori to find your own dinner and savor authentic local snacks such as Takoyaki and Kushikatsu, enjoying an irresistible array of culinary treats. If you’re looking for the fun of shopping and bargaining, discover hidden gems amid the lively chaos of Shinsaibashi. You can also consider taking a romantic night cruise along the Dotonbori River. Finally, walk to your hotel within 10 minutes. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Namba Oriental Hotel (4 stars) in Osaka
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Day 12: Free Day in Osaka
► No guided tour for the day. A free day is thoughtfully incorporated into this itinerary as you might prefer a break when traveling with children. Whether you need additional guided tours or want to remove this day, please feel free to discuss with our team. Self-guided Universal Studios Tour for Your Reference:With movie theme parks and large amusement parks for both adults and children, the Universal Studios Japan is a good place to go. “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” is not to be missed. The “Super Nintendo World” is a must for video game fans. Other theme parks like “New York”, “Hollywood”, “San Francisco”, and “Amity Village” will surely remind you of the wonderful memories of watching the classic Hollywood movies. We can help you book the 1 Day Studio Pass(es), and you can go there on your own. If you want the 1.5 Day Studio Pass(es) or 2 Day Studio Pass(es), please contact our travel consultants to extend your trip. ► How to Get There: Walk 7 minutes west from your hotel to Osaka-Namba Station, take the Hanshin-Namba Line for 4 stops to Nishikujo Station, walk 3 minutes to transfer to the JR Yumesaki Line for another 2 stops to Universal-City Station, which is right at the entrance of the park. It takes half an hour and costs USD 3 per person. ► Opening Hours: Vary daily. Opening time from 8:30 to 10:00; closing time from 18:00 to 22:00. ► Alternative: If you want to use your free day to visit the Kids Plaza Osaka, we would be happy to assist you in securing tickets. Just let us know your preference. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Namba Oriental Hotel (4 stars) in Osaka
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Day 13: Tour End at Osaka
Wake up naturally and have breakfast. Pack your bags and head to Osaka Kansai International Airport by yourself. Wish you a pleasant journey home!
Should you desire to explore more destinations in Japan or other countries, we are delighted to assist you in creating a customized itinerary to suit your needs. Do not hesitate to contact us!
Meals: Breakfast
Transportation from Your Hotel to Osaka Kansai Airport (for your reference): Walk 6 minutes south to Namba Station to take the train Nankai Line for 45 minutes to the airport, costing USD 7 per pax; or take a taxi for 45 minutes at a cost of USD 130. ► Airport see-off service is available at an additional charge.
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