JAPAN ESCAPE Japan Community Experience: A Journey Through Culture, Cherry Blossoms & Timeless Traditions.
- Information
- Tour Plan
- Location
- Gallery
- Additional Info
- Similar Tours
What's included
- Accommodation in single twin share room
- Airport Assistance
- All Breakfast
- Entrance tickets to monuments and museums
- Entry ticket to selected places
- Observation and participation in allowed activities
- Professionally guided tour
- Travel Buddy
- Flight Tickets
- Meals not mentioned or Extra meals ordered
- Medical insurance and emergency insurance
- Personal expenses
- Services not specifically stated in the itinerary
- Tips to guide and driver
- Visa arrangements
The Culture
Hospitality:
Japanese hospitality, known as omotenashi, is rooted in anticipation of guests’ needs without expecting anything in return. From hotel staff to taxi drivers, expect politeness, punctuality, and extraordinary attention to detail in service.
Customs and Etiquette:
Bowing is the standard form of greeting and shows respect. Always remove your shoes before entering a home or certain traditional inns (ryokan) and temples. Silence is valued in public transport. It’s considered rude to eat or talk loudly on trains. Respect for hierarchy and elders is central to Japanese behavior. Modest clothing is appreciated, especially in temples and shrines.
Festivals and Celebrations:
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Hanami (March–April): A springtime tradition of enjoying cherry blossoms in full bloom, especially popular in Tokyo and Kyoto parks.
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Gion Matsuri (July): Kyoto’s most famous festival, with grand parades and floats.
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Obon (August): A Buddhist event honoring ancestors, often with lanterns and traditional dances (bon odori).
Traditional Food
Traditional Dishes:
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Sushi & Sashimi: Fresh seafood served raw or atop vinegared rice.
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Ramen: Noodle soup in a variety of broths (shoyu, miso, tonkotsu).
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Okonomiyaki: Savory pancakes, popular in Osaka.
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Takoyaki: Fried octopus balls, another Osaka specialty.
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Tempura: Lightly battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables.
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Kaiseki: A multi-course meal emphasizing seasonal ingredients and presentation.
Beverages:
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Green Tea (Matcha): Deeply ingrained in Japanese culture and tea ceremonies.
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Sake: Traditional rice wine, served hot or cold.
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Shochu: A stronger distilled spirit, often enjoyed on the rocks or with water.
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Calpis, Ramune, and Japanese bottled teas are widely available and refreshing.
Rich History
Ancient Civilizations:
Japan’s early culture emerged during the Jomon and Yayoi periods, developing unique art forms like pottery and early Shinto beliefs.
Feudal Japan:
From the 12th to 19th century, Japan was ruled by shoguns, with samurai as the military nobility. Kyoto served as the imperial capital, while castles like Osaka’s stood as regional strongholds.
Edo Period (1603–1868):
A time of cultural refinement, peace, and isolation from the West. Kabuki theater, tea ceremonies, and woodblock prints (ukiyo-e) flourished.
Meiji Restoration & Modern Era:
In 1868, Japan rapidly modernized and industrialized, adopting Western technology while retaining traditional values. Post-WWII Japan became a global leader in technology, fashion, and culture.
Natural Highlights
Mt. Fuji
Japan’s most iconic peak and a symbol of national pride. Often viewed on the way to Hakone or during day trips from Tokyo.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (Kyoto)
A peaceful forest path of towering bamboo stalks — surreal and serene.
Nara Park
Home to freely roaming sacred deer and Japan’s oldest temples like Todai-ji.
Tokyo Skytree
Modern marvel offering panoramic city views.
Shibuya Sky
A high-rise observatory with stunning nightscapes of Tokyo’s neon-lit skyline.
Osaka Bay Area
Where you’ll find Universal Studios Japan, Osaka Aquarium, and the futuristic Umeda Sky Building.
Kiyomizu-dera & Fushimi Inari (Kyoto)
Temples rich with cultural significance, including the iconic red torii gate pathways.
- Japan Community Blossoms & Bonds
Japan Sakura Escape
Day 1
Arrival in Tokyo
Tokyo Tower, Tokyo, Japan Arrive at Tokyo International Airport and meet your Lilac Moments
Community Travel Buddy, who will accompany you throughout this
journey.Enjoy a warm welcome and a comfortable transfer to your hotel in the
heart of Tokyo.Settle in and relax after your long flight as you meet your fellow
travelers over light introductions.Evening strolls around the hotel area offer a gentle glimpse of Tokyo’s
vibrant streets.Gather later for a friendly orientation.
Overnight stay in Tokyo.
Inclusions: Private airport transfer.
Day 2
Discovering Tokyo’s Treasures
Begin with breakfast before a full day of guided exploration through
Tokyo’s contrasts.Visit Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple, the city’s oldest Buddhist sanctuary.
Walk along Nakamise Street, lined with charming shops and local snacks.Discover peace amid the bustling city at Meiji Shrine and the Imperial
Palace Gardens.Enjoy group photos at Tokyo Tower, offering spectacular skyline views.
After a spectacular day exploring Tokyo’s icons and culture, return back
to your hotel and relax for the night.Overnight stay in Tokyo.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Full-day guided city tour, Entry tickets to Tokyo Tower, Transfers
Day 3
Mount Fuji Excursion
After breakfast, embark together on a full-day guided journey to Japan’s most
famous symbol — Mt. Fuji.Drive through picturesque countryside to reach the Fuji Five Lakes region,
surrounded by spring blooms.Admire the mirror-like reflections of the mountain on Lake Kawaguchi and
capture group photos together.Pause for a relaxing lakeside lunch and enjoy scenic viewpoints with cherry
blossoms in the foreground.Retire to your accommodation in Kawaguchi by evening and check-in.
Overnight stay in Kawaguchiko.
Inclusions: Breakfast,Guided Mount Fuji day tour, Transfers
Day 4
Train to Kyoto & Gion Evening Walk
Start the morning with breakfast and board Japan’s legendary
Shinkansen Bullet Train to Kyoto.Experience smooth, high-speed travel as cherry-blossom landscapes
glide by your window.Check in to your Kyoto hotel and unwind briefly before evening
exploration.Join your travel buddy for a walking tour through the mystical Gion
District.Wander among lantern-lit lanes, wooden houses, and kimono-clad
maiko in quiet elegance.Optionally conclude the evening with a Kyoto-style dinner in a quaint
garden restaurant at your own pace.Overnight stay in Kyoto.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Station transfer, Train Ticket, Gion Walking Tour
Day 5
Amanohashidate & Ine Bay Day Tour
- After breakfast, depart with your group for a scenic journey to Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s “Top Three Views.”
- Admire the stunning panorama from the viewpoint and enjoy a peaceful walk along the sandbar.
- Continue to the beautiful Ine Bay, known for its traditional waterfront funaya (boat houses).
- Enjoy a shared lunch in the coastal area with refreshing sea views.
- Explore the village or take a relaxing sightseeing cruise around the bay.
- Return to your hotel in the evening and unwind with your group.
- Overnight stay in Kyoto.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Amanohashidate & Ine Bay Day Tour, Transfers
Day 6
Transfer to Osaka
- Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before departing for Osaka, Japan’s food
and fun capital. - Arrive and check into your Osaka hotel for a refreshing break.
Head out to explore the Shinsaibashi district, full of trendy stores and
quirky cafés. - Stroll along Dotonbori Canal, famous for its glowing billboards and
vibrant atmosphere. - Sample Osaka street foods like takoyaki and browse for souvenirs in
bustling markets. - Relax in a riverside park or enjoy local eats at Kuromon Ichiba Market.
- Overnight stay in Osaka.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Train Tickets, Transfers.
Day 7
Universal Studios Adventure
- Kickstart the day with breakfast and head to Universal Studios Japan
for thrilling fun. - Enter The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and ride through Hogwarts
Castle. - Explore Super Nintendo World, home to Mario Kart rides and gamethemed zones.
Meet beloved characters in Minion Park, and brave adventures in
Jurassic Park. - Enjoy themed meals, photo spots, and seasonal parades filled with
excitement. - Return to the hotel after a magical day full of rides and laughter.
- Overnight stay in Osaka.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Transfers, Universal Studios Entry Ticket
Day 8
Arashiyama, Kinkakuji & Nara Park Tour
Begin with a hearty breakfast before exploring Osaka’s top attractions.
Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, home to marine wonders like whale
sharks and jellyfish.Step into history at Osaka Castle, with scenic gardens perfect for a
leisurely stroll.Head to Umeda Sky Building, and enjoy panoramic city views from the
Floating Garden.Spend the evening walking the neon-lit streets of Dotonbori, snacking
along the way.Return to the hotel and relax after an inspiring cultural and scenic day.
Overnight stay in Osaka.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Transfers, Entry tickets to Osaka Aquarium, Osaka Castle & Umeda Sky
Day 9
Arashiyama, Kinkakuji & Nara Park Tour
Start your morning with a delightful breakfast at the hotel.
Head out for a full-day guided tour combining Kyoto’s and Nara’s top
cultural sites.Walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and visit the peaceful
Tenryu-ji Temple.Cross the Togetsukyo Bridge, surrounded by maple trees and river
views.Visit Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) and admire its shimmering gold
exterior and pond reflections.In Nara, visit the iconic Todaiji Temple and interact with friendly deer at
Nara Park.Enjoy free time for local snacks before heading onward to Osaka.
Unwind after a heritage-rich journey.
Overnight stay in Osaka.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Transfers, Arashiyama and Nara Full Day Tour
Day 10
Return to Tokyo
Enjoy breakfast and check out from your hotel in Osaka.
Board the Shinkansen for a scenic high-speed journey back to Tokyo.
Arrive and check into your Tokyo hotel.
In the afternoon, visit teamLab Borderless for a magical digital art
experience.Walk through immersive rooms of light, mirrors, and floating flowers.
Explore Odaiba or DiverCity Tokyo Plaza for shopping and snacks.
Return to your hotel and unwind.
Overnight stay in Tokyo.
Inclusions: Breakfast,transfers, Train Ticket, Entry to teamLab.
Day 11
Departure
Enjoy your final breakfast in Japan and reflect on the beautiful
memories made.Depending on your flight time, take a leisurely walk, visit a shrine, or
do last-minute shopping.Check out from your hotel and prepare for your airport transfer to
Narita or Haneda.A private transfer will take you to the airport comfortably and on time.
Depart with a heart full of stories—from serene temples to neon nights,
laughter to friendship.Bid farewell to Japan, carrying memories from a truly special journey.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Private airport transfer.
More about Asia
More about Japan
More about this tour
Japan is an archipelago of over 6,800 islands characterized by coastal lowlands, rugged mountains, and volcanic activity. Its climate ranges from subarctic in the north to subtropical in the south. Japan is vulnerable to natural disasters, including earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons. Known for its technological innovation, high literacy rates, and universal healthcare system, Japan blends ancient traditions with modern efficiency. It has 25 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 22 items on UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list. Japan is globally admired for its cuisine, pop culture, and deep cultural refinement.
