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The Grand Japan Odyssey: 14 Days of Icons & Hidden Gems
The Grand Japan Odyssey: 14 Days of Icons & Hidden Gems
Experience the definitive journey through the Land of the Rising Sun. This meticulously curated 14-day itinerary is designed for the traveler who wants it all: the neon pulse of Tokyo, the meditative zen of Kyoto, and the rare, "off-the-beaten-path" magic of the Japanese Alps.
From the floating torii gate of Miyajima to the thatched-roof farmhouses of Shirakawa-go, you will traverse Japan via the world-famous Shinkansen (Bullet Train), transitioning seamlessly between ultra-modern skylines and samurai-era districts. Whether it’s your first visit or a deep-dive return, this journey uncovers the cultural soul of Japan in unparalleled comfort and style.
While this 14-day route captures the ultimate "Best of Japan," it is a high-energy journey. At Catterfly, we typically recommend a slower, more immersive pace to truly soak in each destination. If you prefer to linger longer in a mountain village or spend an extra morning in a Kyoto tea house, this itinerary can be fully customized to match your preferred speed.
Highlights
- The "New Golden Route" Heritage: Go beyond the standard tourist path into the heart of the Japanese Alps to explore the UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go and the beautifully preserved samurai quarters of Kanazawa.
- Spiritual Wonders & Sacred Deer: Witness the 1,000 vermilion gates of Fushimi Inari, the shimmering Golden Pavilion, and the friendly, free-roaming deer of Nara’s ancient temple grounds.
- Castles, Shrines & Floating Gates: Stand before the "White Heron" of Himeji Castle (Japan’s most iconic fortress) and take a sunset ferry to Miyajima Island to see the world-famous "floating" torii gate.
- The Hakone Onsen Experience: Escape the city for a night of relaxation in a traditional Japanese Hot Spring (Onsen), complemented by a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi with views of Mt. Fuji.
- A Journey Through Time: Walk the "Little Kyoto" streets of Takayama, explore the tragic yet hopeful history of Hiroshima’s Peace Park, and step back into the Edo period in Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district.
Trip Itinerary
Arrive and Explore Old Edo: Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple (1 Day )
Discover Tokyo’s must-see sights on this action-packed first day. Explore the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, stroll through the bustling Nakamise Street for local snacks and souvenirs, and enjoy scenic views along the Sumida River. Cap...
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Harajuku Style, Shibuya Crossing & the Best of Tokyo City (1 Day )
Experience the best of Tokyo with a perfectly balanced city tour covering Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Shibuya Crossing, skyline viewpoints, and Shinjuku. Discover Tokyo’s culture, street style, iconic landmarks, and vibrant city life in one...
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Nikko: Shogun Shrines & Sacred Forests (1 Day )
Experience the spiritual and natural highlights of Nikko on a day trip from Tokyo. Visit Toshogu Shrine, Rinno-ji Temple, and Futarasan Shrine, each reflecting different aspects of Nikko’s religious heritage. Walk across the iconic Shinkyo...
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Kyoto Classics: Golden Pavilion, Kyoto Imperial Palace & More (1 Day )
Discover Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks in one immersive day. Visit the Golden Pavilion of Kinkaku-ji, the Zen rock garden of Ryoan-ji, historic Nijo Castle, and the serene grounds of the Kyoto Imperial Palace for a journey through...
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Mt. Fuji Vistas & Hakone Hot Springs (1 Day )
Travel from Tokyo to Hakone and experience Japan’s natural beauty with a scenic ropeway ride, the volcanic landscapes of Owakudani, a relaxing Lake Ashi cruise, the spiritual Hakone Shrine, and a traditional onsen soak. A perfect escape into...
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Bullet Train to Kyoto & Gion District (1 Day )
Travel from Hakone to Kyoto by Shinkansen and step into Japan’s cultural heart. Explore the historic Gion district, visit Yasaka Shrine, stroll the charming Higashiyama streets, and experience the timeless beauty of traditional Kyoto.
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Bamboo Groves, Fushimi Inari Shrines & More Icons (1 Day )
Discover Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks in one immersive day. Walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, visit historic Tenryu-ji Temple, cross Togetsukyo Bridge, and explore the famous torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha. A perfect blend of...
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Nara: Ancient Temples & Deer Park (1 Day )
Explore ancient Nara on a day trip from Kyoto, visiting Todai-ji’s Great Buddha, Nara Deer Park, Kasuga Taisha, and Kofuku-ji. A perfect blend of history, culture, and nature.
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Himeji & Miyajima: Castles & Floating Gates (1 Day )
Travel from Kyoto to Miyajima via Himeji, visiting Himeji Castle, Hiroshima by Shinkansen, the Miyajima ferry, Itsukushima Shrine’s floating torii gate, and enjoying a meal at Okonomimura before an overnight stay on Miyajima.
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Hiroshima Peace Memorial & Kanazawa (1 Day )
Travel from Miyajima to Kanazawa with a meaningful stop in Hiroshima. Visit the Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, and Peace Memorial Museum before continuing by train to Kanazawa for an overnight stay.
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Samurai Spirit of Kanazawa (1 Day )
Explore Kanazawa’s historic heart through its garden, castle, samurai district, and traditional teahouse area. This experience offers a simple and engaging introduction to the city’s culture, architecture, and everyday heritage, with...
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Alpine Magic in Shirakawago (1 Day )
Explore Shirakawago from Kanazawa through a village walk, gassho-zukuri farmhouses, and scenic viewpoints, with an overnight stay in Shirakawago.
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Little Kyoto: Takayama Old Town & Sake (1 Day )
Travel from Shirakawago to Takayama and explore the city’s preserved old town. Visit Sanmachi Suji, the historic Takayama Jinya, and discover traditional sake breweries before an overnight stay in Takayama.
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Morning Markets & Return to Tokyo (1 Day )
Begin the day in Takayama with a visit to the lively Miyagawa Morning Market and a relaxed walk through the historic old town. Later, travel by train to Tokyo for an overnight stay in Japan’s capital.
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Whats included in this tour
Tours and Private Transfers
Activities and Excursions
Customized Sightseeing Itinerary
Handpicked Accommodation
Handpicked Accommodations - Hotels / Apartments as per your preferences
- 4 nights in Tokyo
- 1 night in Hakone
- 4 nights in Kyoto
- 1 night in Miyajima
- 2 nights in Kanazawa
- 1 night in Shirakawago
- 1 night in Takayama
Customized Sightseeing, Activities and Logistics
- Customized Itinerary: Tailored sightseeing, activities, and transfers based on your preferences.
- Activities and Excursions: As per the itinerary and reconfirmed based on the final customized itinerary
- Catterfly Mobile App: Personalized logistics and digital guidance for independent exploration.
- Personal Support: Dedicated travel coach providing remote assistance throughout your journey.
Exclusions: Exclusions include visa processing, return airfare, porterage, and personal expenses. Local taxes must be paid directly at your accommodation, and any item not explicitly listed as an inclusion is excluded.
Accommodation
No Accommodation available.
FAQ & Expert Tips
No FAQs available.
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Trip length
14 Days
Starting From
On request
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Reviews0/5
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Package Type Moderate
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Best Season All Seasons
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