12 Days of Temples, Traditions, and Tropical Islands
Japan Highlights & Okinawa Beaches
A 12-day, 11-night private journey through Japan’s iconic highlights — from Tokyo’s energy and Hakone’s hot springs to Kyoto’s temples and Osaka’s food scene — finishing with four nights of white-sand beaches and coral reefs on Miyakojima Island in Okinawa.
Days: 12 Days / 11 Nights
Tokyo — Hakone — Kyoto — Osaka — Miyakojima Island
Culture & Coastal
Japan, Okinawa Beaches, Culture, Cuisine, Private Guided Tour, Luxury Ryokan
This immersive 12-day itinerary pairs Japan’s most celebrated cultural destinations with the tropical beaches of Okinawa. Begin in Tokyo with a Michelin-starred dining experience and a hands-on ninja workshop, then head to the mountain resort of Hakone for volcanic landscapes and views of Mount Fuji. In Kyoto, stay at a traditional ryokan, enjoy a private Geisha dinner, and explore iconic sites such as Fushimi Inari and Kinkaku-ji. Continue to Osaka for its street food and nightlife, before flying south to Miyakojima Island for four relaxed nights of diving, snorkelling, and pristine beaches at a luxury pool-villa resort.
The Essence
A journey that blends Tokyo’s Michelin-starred dining and ninja culture, Hakone’s hot springs and Mount Fuji views, Kyoto’s ryokan stays and private Geisha traditions, Nara’s ancient temples, and Osaka’s street food and nightlife before unwinding on the white-sand beaches and coral reefs of Miyakojima Island in Okinawa.
Key Highlights
A 12-day private journey through Japan’s most iconic cities Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, and Osaka filled with Michelin dining, ryokan stays, ancient temples, and local culture, before winding down on the beaches and coral reefs of Miyakojima Island.
Itinerary
Day 1 Aman Tokyo, Tokyo
WELCOME TO JAPAN – TOKYO
Arrival & Michelin-Starred Fine Dining Experience
Upon arrival in Tokyo, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred privately to your hotel. Take some time to settle in and relax after your journey.
In the evening, dress elegantly and prepare for an exceptional Michelin-starred dining experience, offering an introduction to Tokyo’s celebrated culinary scene. Renowned as one of the world’s foremost gastronomic destinations, Tokyo presents an extraordinary selection of fine dining establishments, ranging from refined traditional Japanese cuisine to exquisite French and Italian gastronomy.
For an authentic Japanese experience, indulge in Kaiseki, a sophisticated multi-course culinary tradition that celebrates seasonal ingredients, delicate presentation, and the artistry of Japanese cuisine. Alternatively, enjoy an intimate Omakase experience, where the chef curates a bespoke selection of the finest seasonal ingredients.
Guests may also choose from Tokyo’s renowned sushi, sashimi, tempura, or contemporary Japanese restaurants, depending on their culinary preferences.
Your private chauffeur will transfer you to the selected restaurant and, following dinner, return you comfortably to your hotel.
Day 2 Aman Tokyo, Tokyo
TOKYO – SHIBUYA & NINJA EXPERIENCE
Explore Shibuya – The Heart of Modern Tokyo
After breakfast, embark on a private exploration of Shibuya, one of Tokyo’s most vibrant and fashionable districts, where contemporary Japanese culture, entertainment, art, and technology come together.
Begin at the legendary Shibuya Scramble Crossing, an iconic symbol of Tokyo’s dynamic urban energy. Continue through the district’s celebrated shopping and lifestyle destinations, including Shibuya 109, Shibuya Hikarie, and Seibu, offering an impressive selection of Japanese and international fashion.
For a more eclectic experience, explore Hands, Loft, and Don Quijote, where guests can discover unique Japanese products, souvenirs, lifestyle items, and quirky finds.
Later, ascend to Shibuya Sky, one of Tokyo’s most spectacular observation experiences, offering breathtaking panoramic views across the city skyline.
Continue to Miyashita Park, a stylish urban complex combining green spaces, dining, shopping, and entertainment. Art, fashion, anime, gaming, and contemporary Japanese pop culture can be further explored at Shibuya PARCO.
Enjoy some leisure time to discover Shibuya’s sophisticated cafés, boutiques, and entertainment venues at your own pace.
Ninja Experience – A Journey into Japan’s Legendary Warrior Culture
Later, enjoy an engaging and interactive Ninja Experience, suitable for both adults and children. This immersive activity offers an entertaining introduction to the fascinating history, traditions, weapons, and skills associated with Japan’s legendary ninja.
Begin with an introduction to the world of the ninja and discover the traditional tools and techniques once associated with their covert missions.
Guests will have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of shuriken (ninja star) throwing before participating in a friendly target competition. Continue with an introduction to the traditional fukiya, or ninja blowgun, followed by an enjoyable target-practice challenge.
The experience also includes a visit to a ninja-themed museum, offering further insight into the history and culture surrounding these legendary figures.
For those seeking an additional touch of Japanese tradition, an optional samurai transformation experience can also be arranged.
This interactive experience combines culture, history, entertainment, and hands-on activities, making it an ideal experience for families and guests of all ages.
After the experience, return to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.
Day 3 Gora Kadan, Hakone
HAKONE – FUJI VIEWS, ART & JAPANESE CULTURE
Private Full-Day Excursion | Approx. 5 Hours
After breakfast, depart Tokyo by private vehicle for Hakone, one of Japan’s most celebrated mountain resorts, renowned for its natural hot springs, volcanic landscapes, traditional Japanese culture, and spectacular views of Mount Fuji on clear days.
Begin your exploration around Lake Ashi, a scenic caldera lake surrounded by the mountains of Hakone. Continue to Owakudani Valley, a dramatic volcanic landscape created by Hakone’s active volcanic activity, where steaming vents and rugged terrain create a unique atmosphere.
Depending on your interests and available time, choose one or two of the following experiences:
- Hakone Open-Air Museum – an exceptional outdoor collection combining contemporary art with the surrounding mountain landscape.
- Hakone Shrine – a beautifully situated Shinto shrine, famous for its iconic red torii gate standing on the shores of Lake Ashi.
- Hakone Park – peaceful landscaped grounds offering scenic views and pleasant walking trails.
- Traditional Onsen Experience – relax in the therapeutic mineral-rich waters of a Japanese hot spring.
- Hakone Checkpoint – a historic Edo-period checkpoint that once controlled travellers along the important Tokaido route.
HAKONE MUSEUM OF ART & MOSS GARDEN
Continue to the Hakone Museum of Art, established in 1952 and home to an impressive collection of Japanese ceramics and artworks dating from prehistoric times through later periods.
Take a leisurely stroll through the museum’s tranquil Moss Garden, particularly beautiful during the seasonal changes, with moss-covered landscapes, stone pathways, and maple trees creating an atmosphere of refined Japanese serenity.
Enjoy a traditional cup of Japanese green tea at the garden teahouse while appreciating the peaceful surroundings.
If time permits, continue to Sekirakuen Garden, a beautifully landscaped garden featuring a natural mountain stream, striking stone formations, and picturesque valley views.
After the experience, return to Tokyo by private vehicle.
Day 4 Aman Kyoto, Kyoto
TOKYO – KYOTO & PRIVATE GEISHA DINNER EXPERIENCE
Today, depart Tokyo and travel to Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart and one of the country’s most enchanting historic cities. Renowned for its beautifully preserved temples, tranquil gardens, imperial heritage, traditional arts, and refined kaiseki cuisine, Kyoto offers an elegant glimpse into Japan’s timeless traditions.
Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by your private driver and transferred to a traditional Ryokan, a beautifully preserved Japanese inn offering an authentic and intimate cultural experience.
The historic property, dating back approximately a century, was once associated with the Count Yamashina and reflects the refined aesthetics of Japan’s imperial court culture. Admire its traditional wooden architecture and beautifully maintained Japanese garden, while enjoying its convenient location close to cultural landmarks such as Heian Shrine and Shoren-in Temple.
Take some time to settle in and enjoy the serene atmosphere of your traditional accommodation.
EVENING – PRIVATE GEISHA DINNER & CULTURAL EXPERIENCE
This evening, step into the fascinating and refined world of Geisha and Maiko traditions during a private cultural and dining experience.
Accompanied by your private guide, visit a beautifully preserved traditional Machiya, a historic Kyoto townhouse and registered cultural heritage property.
Meet Geisha, highly trained Japanese performing artists, and Maiko, their apprentices, and gain a fascinating insight into the centuries-old traditions of Kyoto’s traditional entertainment culture.
During the evening, enjoy an elegant Japanese dinner featuring seasonal ingredients, including delicately prepared fish, meat, vegetables, rice, soup, and traditional pickles.
As you dine, enjoy an enchanting traditional dance performance and learn about the history, artistry, etiquette, and cultural significance of the Geisha and Maiko traditions.
Following the performance, there may be an opportunity to capture photographs with the performers and participate in traditional Japanese games, creating a memorable and intimate cultural encounter.
Return to the Ryokan after the experience and enjoy the tranquillity of Kyoto at night.
Day 5 Aman Kyoto, Kyoto
KYOTO – FUSHIMI INARI, KINKAKU-JI & JAPANESE GARDENS
After breakfast, meet your private guide at the hotel and embark on a privately guided cultural and heritage experience through Kyoto, exploring some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and its refined tradition of Japanese gardens.
Begin at Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto’s most celebrated Shinto shrines, renowned for its spectacular pathways lined with thousands of vermilion torii gates. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity associated with rice, prosperity, and commerce, the shrine offers a fascinating insight into Japan’s spiritual traditions.
Continue to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire its magnificent gold-leaf-covered pavilion reflected beautifully in the surrounding pond and explore the tranquil temple gardens.
Later, enjoy a privately guided Japanese garden experience, offering an intimate introduction to one of the most refined forms of traditional Japanese art. Discover the philosophy, symbolism, and craftsmanship behind the carefully composed landscapes while learning about the importance of stones, water, plants, pathways, and seasonal elements.
A particularly special aspect of this experience is the opportunity to meet a member of one of Japan’s long-established gardening families, gaining a deeper appreciation of the knowledge and traditions passed down through generations.
EVENING – YAKINIKU DINNER
In the evening, enjoy an authentic Yakiniku dining experience, one of Japan’s most popular culinary traditions. Guests can savour premium cuts of meat grilled at the table, accompanied by an assortment of traditional Japanese side dishes and sauces.
Day 6 The St. Regis Osaka, Osaka
NARA – WALKING TOUR & TRANSFER TO OSAKA
After breakfast, check out and proceed for a privately guided walking tour of Nara, Japan’s ancient capital and a city renowned for its historic temples, sacred traditions, and peaceful natural surroundings.
Begin your exploration with a stroll through one of Nara’s lively traditional shopping arcades, offering an opportunity to discover local delicacies, crafts, and souvenirs.
Continue to Kofuku-ji Temple, an important Buddhist temple complex known for its elegant five-storey pagoda and rich historical significance.
Proceed to Todai-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most celebrated Buddhist temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the magnificent Great Buddha (Daibutsu) housed within the temple’s impressive wooden hall, together with the imposing guardian statues at the entrance.
Continue to Nigatsu-do Temple, beautifully positioned on the slopes of Mount Wakakusa, offering spectacular panoramic views across Nara.
Later, enjoy a leisurely walk through Nara Park, where friendly wild deer roam freely throughout the historic grounds. Continue towards Kasuga Taisha Shrine, one of Nara’s most revered Shinto shrines, celebrated for its atmospheric stone and bronze lanterns and tranquil forest setting.
Enjoy a delicious local lunch, followed by a visit to a beautifully preserved traditional merchant’s residence, offering an intimate glimpse into the lifestyle and architecture of historic Nara.
After the tour, proceed by private transfer to Osaka.
Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax.
Day 7 The St. Regis Osaka, Osaka
OSAKA – DAY AT LEISURE
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a relaxed day at leisure in Osaka, allowing you to experience the city at your own pace.
Begin the day with a leisurely breakfast before exploring some of Osaka’s quieter and more refined surroundings. Take a peaceful stroll along the riverside or visit Keitakuen Garden, a beautifully landscaped traditional Japanese garden offering a tranquil escape from the city.
For those interested in shopping, explore the elegant boutiques and department stores of Umeda or the vibrant shopping district of Shinsaibashi, renowned for its fashion, lifestyle stores, and local specialties.
For a cultural experience, visit the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, offering fascinating insights into Osaka’s history and traditional urban life. Alternatively, enjoy a refreshing excursion to Minoo Park, a scenic natural retreat on the outskirts of the city, ideal for a gentle walk through forested landscapes.
As evening approaches, unwind at a sophisticated rooftop bar or charming café, or experience Osaka’s renowned culinary culture at a traditional Izakaya.
For those seeking a livelier atmosphere, visit Dotonbori, where dazzling neon signs, bustling streets, and the illuminated canal create one of Osaka’s most iconic evening scenes.
Return to the hotel at your leisure.
Day 8 Rosewood Miyakojima, Miyakojima Island
OWN ARRANGEMENTS
Day 9 Rosewood Miyakojima, Miyakojima Island
OWN ARRANGEMENTS
Day 10 Rosewood Miyakojima, Miyakojima Island
OWN ARRANGEMENTS
Day 11 Rosewood Miyakojima, Miyakojima Island
OWN ARRANGEMENTS
Day Itinerary
As your unforgettable Bhutanese adventure concludes, transfer to the airport for your onward flight, taking with you cherished memories of the kingdom’s majestic landscapes, rich culture, and serene Himalayan charm.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
Discover Japan & Okinawa
From ancient temples to tropical shores your private journey awaits.
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