Tokyo and Nikko, between tradition and pop culture
We offer this excursion to the capital either at the beginning of your tour upon your arrival from the airport, or at the end to conclude your trip in style. Explore Tokyo and the holy city of Nikko with a guide according to the following itinerary:
Day 1, Tokyo: Asakusa and Ueno
After settling into your hotel, head to Sensō-ji Temple in Asakusa , one of Tokyo's most popular districts. This picturesque area, with its food and souvenir shops, is perfect for strolling and having lunch. Your guide will also take you to the charming Matsuchiyama Shrine, located nearby. Afterward, enjoy a relaxing and cultural experience with a tea ceremony workshop. In the early afternoon, ascend the Tokyo Skytree , the world's third-tallest tower, to its observation deck at 450 meters. Ueno Garden , with its pond and beautiful shrines, awaits you for a leisurely walk and a coffee break at a renowned local pastry shop. In the evening, dine at a restaurant where you can watch a sumo wrestling match unfold before your eyes.
For your accommodation in Tokyo, we can offer you a hotel in the heart of a lively area like Shinjuku or Asakusa or in a quieter area depending on your preferences.
Day 2, Tokyo: Akihabara and Harajuku
The next day, immerse yourself in the pop culture of Akihabara . Your guide will introduce you to the legendary Japanese arcades where you can challenge your guide or play against the computer together. Browse the many secondhand electronics shops and stores selling merchandise, manga, and anime. Take a break, then enjoy lunch at a maid café or local stall. In the afternoon, depart for the grand Meiji-jingu Shrine, one of the capital's most popular shrines, where Emperor Meiji, the father of Japan's modernization, is venerated. Afterward, stroll through Harajuku , the fashion district, and its famous shopping street, Takeshita-dori . In the late afternoon, venture into the Kabukicho district, starting with a drink at one of the area's many popular bars. Your guide will then take you to dinner at several establishments while introducing you to the neighborhood.
Day 3, 1 night in Nikko: Nikko and Lake Chūzen-ji
Leave your belongings at your Tokyo hotel to travel light on your third day in Nikko . Located two hours from Tokyo by train, the city is a popular destination for its magnificent shrines dedicated to Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu . Among the must-sees are the iconic Shinkyō Bridge and the Tōshōgū Shrine, where the founder of the Tokugawa dynasty is venerated. Afterwards, take a short nature break at Lake Chūzen-ji, where you can visit the temple of the same name. Nestled against the mountainside, with a stunning view of the lake, the temple houses a wooden statue of Kannon, the goddess of compassion, believed to have been crafted in the 8th century when the temple was founded.
Stay overnight in a high-end hotel with stunning views of Lake Chūzen-ji.
Day 4, Tokyo: Ginza and Tokyo Bay
Upon returning from Nikko, meet your guide who will accompany you to Ginza , Japan's Champs-Élysées, for some window shopping. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at one of the district's upscale restaurants, a teishoku , a typical set meal. For a cultural experience, visit the magnificent Zōjō-ji Temple and its unique Hall of Relics. Then, participate in a pottery workshop to create your own bowl or teacup, which will be mailed to you once it's fired. Before dinner, stop by a viewpoint overlooking Tokyo Bay, which is dazzling at nightfall. Finally, indulge in a gourmet sushi restaurant within the Tsukiji Fish Market for a truly unique culinary experience.
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If you would like to include this excursion at the beginning of your tour, we can suggest combining it with other Kansai excursions, the beating heart of Japan. or head north with our Karuizawa Nature Getaway excursion, or create a tailor-made excursion for you.
AYUMI Voyage advisors are available to offer you a tailor-made tour.
Day 5: The Departure
For the last day of this excursion, your guide will accompany you to the airport or to the next part of your tour with us.
Request a customized quote
AYUMI Voyage excursions are suggestions that are not exhaustive and are intended to inspire you in creating your own tour of Japan with our travel advisors. All our offers, itineraries, and optional services are entirely customized after consultation with you.
Duration
5 days
4 nights
Place
Tokyo, Nikko
Elevation gain
Walking time
Ideal season
AYUMI Premium Trip:
recommended additional services
Guide : Tokyo is an extraordinary city that can be overwhelming for many. The capital boasts a rich cultural heritage that you'll discover all the more if you have the right guide. Our guides will help you explore the city efficiently, saving you time on transportation, and above all, leading you to the most interesting places and providing all the necessary explanations.
Restaurant reservations: Tokyo boasts the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, far surpassing Paris. But beyond these prestigious establishments, a multitude of other restaurants offer a remarkable gastronomic experience. To ensure you don't miss out on the excellence of Japanese cuisine, our advisors are at your service. They will book the best restaurants to meet your specific requirements.
Airport Arrival : To arrive in Japan by air, Haneda Airport is one of the main gateways, along with Kansai International Airport in Osaka. While renowned for its excellent service, Haneda Airport is quite large and located some distance from the city center. With a guide to greet you upon arrival, you can land with peace of mind and leave the organization of your transfer to your hotel to them, saving you valuable time. They will also provide your cash and pre-booked tour tickets (if you have booked these services) and assist you with your luggage.
