SOLO Castles & Heritage of West JapanGolden Route Plus: Himeji,Kanazawa & Miyajima
Tour Route
Your journey through Japan's most iconic destinations
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About This Tour
Experience the cutting-edge culture and bustling streets of Tokyo, the elegant scenery of history and nature in Okayama, and the heartfelt vision of a UNESCO World Heritage Site Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima. Embrace the breathtaking beauty of a UNESCO World Heritage Site Himeji Castle and the tranquility of its surrounding samurai residences and Japanese gardens. In Kyoto, discover a treasure trove of traditional culture and UNESCO World Heritage sites and feel the depths of Japanese history. Enjoy the traditional townscape of Kanazawa retaining its strong trace of wealth of the former Kaga clan, as well as the fusion of modern art and traditional crafts. Take part in a journey filled with the diverse charms of Japan where tradition, innovation, tranquility and liveliness intersect.
Tour Highlights
- A solo tour is a travel plan made for single travelers to enjoy a safe and easy trip on their own
- Tour of Japan's popular cities + art-famous Setouchi Islands
- Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its iconic torii gate standing in the sea
- Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, nicknamed the "White Egret Castle" for its graceful beauty
- Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa, one of Japan's three most famous gardens
- Comfortable travel with Shinkansen and limited express trains
- Luggage delivery service from Tokyo to Hiroshima, Hiroshima to Kyoto, and Kyoto to Tokyo for convenient travel
What Makes This Tour Special
Experience the best of Japan's cultural heritage through this carefully crafted journey that combines iconic destinations with authentic local experiences.
Our expertly designed itinerary ensures you witness the perfect blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation that defines Japan's unique character.
Day 1 - Welcome to Japan- Arrival in Tokyo
Welcome to Japan! Staff will be waiting for you at Haneda or Narita Airport. There, you will be given a set of essentials for your trip and will be taken to a taxi stand, limousine bus stop, or train station. Hotel Check-in.
Day 2 - The adventure kicks off in vibrant Tokyo
Breakfast at the Hotel This vibrant city beautifully blends traditional Japanese culture with the latest trends. The best way to experience all that Tokyo has to offer is by exploring on foot, so put on your walking shoes and get ready for an adventure! <Recommended Sightseeing Spots> - Asakusa: This traditional downtown area preserves old-world charm and features iconic sites such as the Kaminarimon Gate and Sensoji Temple. - Tokyo Skytree®: A popular destination that offers panoramic views of Tokyo from its observation deck. - The Imperial Palace: A serene location surrounded by beautiful gardens and historic buildings. - Shibuya Scramble Crossing: A bustling symbol of Tokyo, filled with people. - Harajuku: An area where youth culture and unique fashion come together.
Day 3 - Explore Okayama and Kurashiki, the Land of Sunshine
Breakfast at the Hotel After breakfast, check out and send your large luggage to Hiroshima. You can explore Okayama, Kurashiki and Setouchi Islands at your leisure. In the morning, travel from Tokyo to Okayama by Shinkansen. Okayama and Kurashiki are rich in history and culture. Kurashiki features charming white-walled streets, while Okayama has notable castles and gardens. <Recommended Sightseeing Spots> - Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter: A great spot for walking with beautiful streets, cafes, and shops. - Ohara Museum of Art: A top museum with famous artworks, including pieces by Monet. - Okayama Castle: Known for its black exterior, it offers stunning views from the tower. - Korakuen Garden: A beautiful Japanese garden and one of Japan's Three Great Gardens. Hotel Check-in
Day 4 - Island of Contemporary Art- Naoshima
Breakfast at the Hotel Today, we recommend exploring popular islands known for their art. Naoshima Island features museums and outdoor artworks, making it great for walking and exploring. Reserve a rental bicycle in advance to get around easily. <Recommended Sightseeing Spots> - Visit museums that blend with the sea and landscape. - Explore art installations in preserved homes. - Enjoy outdoor art with views of the Seto Inland Sea. - Walk or bike the island, stopping at local cafes.
Day 5 - Reflecting on Hiroshima's history
Breakfast at the Hotel Hotel Check-out In the morning, travel from Okayama to Hiroshima by Shinkansen. Hiroshima is rich in culture and easy to explore by streetcar, offering various attractions and local food. Enjoy sightseeing in Hiroshima! <Recommended Sightseeing Spots> - Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome): A UNESCO World Heritage Site representing the impact of war. - Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: A park honoring atomic bomb victims, with a museum. - Okonomimura & Hiroshima Station Area: Known for Hiroshima's famous okonomiyaki. Hotel Check-in
Day 6 - Miyajima & the Sacred Shrine by the Sea
Breakfast at the Hotel Travel to Miyajima by train and ferry. Miyajima is a beautiful island in Hiroshima Bay, known as an "island of the gods." Enjoy a full day at Miyajima! <Recommended Sightseeing Spots> - Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site: A beautiful and mystifying red shrine suspended on the sea is a must-see! - Otorii Gate: Watch as the sea tides surround this enormous torii gate. Observe the vibrant red-colored Senjo-kaku Pavilion, Five-story Pagoda and National Treasure Tahoto Pagoda also nearby. - Daigan-ji Temple and Daisho-in Temple: Also in the area and may be of interest. - Miyajima Ropeway: Time permitting, enjoy the view of Miyajima and the Inland Sea. - Miyajima History and Folklore Museum and Miyajima Traditional Crafts Center: For those who enjoy history, the history and traditions of Miyajima can be learned here. Travel back to Hiroshima by ferry and train.
Day 7 - Visit Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Breakfast at the Hotel After breakfast, check out and send your large luggage to Kyoto. You can explore Himeji at your leisure. In the morning, travel from Hiroshima to Himeji by Shinkansen. Himeji is a beautiful castle town with rich history. Enjoy sightseeing in Himeji! <Recommended Sightseeing Spots> - Himeji Castle: Admire the beauty of a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Himeji Castle and be sure not to miss the spectacular nighttime illumination. - Koko-en: This Japanese garden located on the west side of Himeji Castle is a beautifully designed space established on the site of a former Edo-period mansion. Visitors can appreciate the garden’s seasonal landscapes, and matcha tasting is also offered for an authentic cultural experience. Hotel Check-in
Day 8 - Day 8 - Exploring Kyoto’s Historic Streets
Breakfast at the Hotel Hotel Check-out In the morning, travel from Himeji to Kyoto by Shinkansen. Kyoto is the heart of Japanese culture, filled with historic temples, shrines, and beautiful streets. Enjoy sightseeing in Kyoto! <Recommended Sightseeing Spots> - Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site and explore the souvenir shops and tea houses along the slopes. - Gion and Yasaka Shrine: Walk through the charming streets of Gion. You might see a maiko (apprentice geisha) while you’re there. - Stroll along the Kamo River: This is a great place for an evening walk. Enjoy a break at a riverside cafe. Hotel Check-in
Day 9 - Kyoto Icons: Timeless Sights of the Ancient Capital
Breakfast at the Hotel Let’s continue sightseeing in Kyoto. <Recommended Sightseeing Spots> - Kinkaku-ji Temple: A beautiful World Heritage site that is gold-plated. - Arashiyama: A popular tourist spot known for its bamboo grove and Togetsukyo Bridge. You can also enjoy a rickshaw ride here. - Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine: A popular place for photos, featuring thousands of red torii gates. - Nishiki Market & Kawaramachi: An area where you can try Kyoto’s food and do some shopping.
Day 10 - Let's explore beyond Kyoto!
Breakfast at the Hotel Ready to explore beyond Kyoto? Here are some great spots to check out. <Recommended Sightseeing Spots> - Love gourmet food and shopping? Osaka is the place to go. Shop at Osaka's foremost shopping districts Dotonbori and Tsutenkaku Tower and indulge in takoyaki and okonomiyaki until your heart's content! - Want to see more ancient history? Nara is the place to be. Nara predates Kyoto as an ancient capital, and its UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Kofukuji Temple — are just some of many spots with a rich and immersive history. Nara Park also provides a unique experience where feeding the gentle deer offers a moment to connect with nature.
Day 11 - The Timeless Charm of Kanazawa
Breakfast at the Hotel After breakfast, check out and send your large luggage to Tokyo. You can explore Kanazawa at your leisure. In the morning, travel from Kyoto to Tsuruga by limited express train, then take the Shinkansen to Kanazawa. Kanazawa is a city that keeps the feel of an Edo-period castle town while also featuring modern art and architecture. Enjoy sightseeing in Kanazawa! <Recommended Sightseeing Spots> - Higashi Chaya District: Enjoy a magical atmosphere in the evening. It’s a great place for a stroll. - Korinbo/Katamachi Area: This lively district is perfect for dining. Try local dishes like seafood and oden. Hotel Check-in
Day 12 - Kanazawa: Gardens, Arts & Samurai Heritage
Breakfast at the Hotel Let’s continue sightseeing in Kanazawa. <Recommended Sightseeing Spots> - Omi-cho Market: Visit this market to enjoy local food, especially fresh seafood. - Kenroku-en Garden: Explore one of Japan's Three Great Gardens, which offers beautiful views in every season. - Kanazawa Castle Park: This park, next to Kenroku-en, has castle ruins and a large area to walk around. - 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art: Check out this museum that showcases contemporary art, making it a great stop during your city walk. Optional chartered taxi tour to Shirakawa-go is available from Kanazawa. Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has traditional farming village showcases Gassho-zukuri thatched houses designed for harsh winters, preserving ancestral wisdom.
Day 13 - Morning in Kanazawa and Night life in Tokyo
Breakfast at the Hotel In the afternoon, travel from Kanazawa to Tokyo by Shinkansen. Hotel Check-in Let's also enjoy the night life in Tokyo. <Recommended Sightseeing Spots> - Nihonbashi/Ginza: A great area for shopping that blends tradition and modernity.
Day 14 - Have fun in the friendly and relaxed neighborhoods of Tokyo
Breakfast at the Hotel Ready to explore beyond Tokyo? Here are some great spots to check out. <Recommended Sightseeing Spots> - Kamakura: A lovely historic town with beautiful coastlines. Don’t miss the Great Buddha and a stroll down Komachi Street! - Nikko: Perfect for nature and culture lovers, featuring the stunning Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Falls. - Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi: Enjoy breathtaking views of Japan’s tallest mountain and the nearby lake. Plus, there are exciting amusement and theme parks close by for some extra fun!
Day 15 - Sayonara, and can't wait to see you next time!
Breakfast at the Hotel The tour ends at hotel check-out. Thank you for joining our 15-day tour. We look forward to seeing you again.
Accommodation
VIA INN SHINJUKU or similar
2 nightsTokyo Shinjuku
1 bed
ANA Crowne Plaza Okayama
2 nightsOkayama
1 bed
Hotel Granvia Hiroshima
2 nightsHiroshima
1 bed
Hotel Nikko Himeji
1 nightHimeji
1 bed
Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo
3 nightsKyoto
1 bed
Kanazawa New Grand Hotel PRESTIGE or similar
2 nightsKanazawa
1 bed
VIA INN SHINJUKU or similar
2 nightsTokyo Shinjuku
1 bed
Day 1 - Tokyo
Day 2 - Tokyo
Hotel breakfast
Day 3 - Okayama
Hotel breakfast
Day 4 - Okayama
Hotel breakfast
Day 5 - Hiroshima
Hotel breakfast
Day 6 - Hiroshima
Hotel breakfast
Day 7 - Himeji
Hotel breakfast
Day 8 - Kyoto
Hotel breakfast
Day 9 - Kyoto
Hotel breakfast
Day 10 - Kyoto
Hotel breakfast
Day 11 - Kanazawa
Hotel breakfast
Day 12 - Kanazawa
Hotel breakfast
Day 13 - Tokyo
Hotel breakfast
Day 14 - Tokyo
Hotel breakfast
Day 15 - Tokyo
Hotel breakfast
Accommodation
All accommodations are carefully selected 3-4 star hotels with excellent locations and amenities. Traditional ryokan experiences included where applicable.
Tour Price
US$4,000 ~ US$5,400
From
US$4,000 ~ US$5,400